Life Magazines (Hertfordshire editions) December 2020

Say goodbye to 2020 in style with Christmas at Sopwell House

D AVONP OR T N a t u r a l l y

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic

1 Moneyhill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 7BQ Phone: +44(0)1923 773906 | celia@moneyhillinteriors.com moneyhillinteriors.com

FROM THE

EDITOR

Radlett Premier Bathrooms

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ith roaring open fires, festive lights and trees laden with glittering baubles, Sopwell House is offering guests a luxurious home-away-from-home this festive season with new packages for guests to enjoy. For those looking for some much-needed pampering, the Indulgent Residential Packages include accommodation in an Executive Bedroom, Afternoon Tea on Christmas Eve afternoon, a choice of traditional festive cuisine or delicious healthy alternatives across Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and full access to The Club at Cottonmill.

This Christmas, The Ivy St Albans Brasserie will celebrate with a joyful, festive installation in the heart of the city for guests and passers-by to enjoy, as well as a limited-edition cocktail menu that features a Christmas cocktail in partnership with Maker’s Mark, available from Wednesday, 2 December.

Henry Moore Studios & Gardens will be opening its sculpture gardens each weekend until the end of 2020, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Henry Moore’s magnificent artworks during these difficult times.

Carl Russell & Co Gunmakers have been established since 2014 and are situated on the picturesque Hatfield Park Estate in Hertfordshire. With over 60 years experience in the British gun trade the team at Carl Russell & Co can advise on all aspects of guns and shooting, we specialise in British shotguns having established our reputation with one of England’s top makers.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITORIAL 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

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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 : C A R L R U S S E L L & C O G U N M A K E R S

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CHRISTOPHER WHARTON GOLDSMITH INTRODUCES A NEW DIAMOND CUT FOR THE UK

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THE L’AMOUR CRISS CUT

he L’Amour Criss Cut diamonds come in four styles – Oval Classic Pear and Cushion.

The L’Amour Crisscut Oval is designed to be up to 35% larger than a generic oval of the same size. This patented expertly designed cut provides a brighter whiter appearance. Its secret lies in the cutting style which is shallower than its generic counterpart directly translating into a larger visible surface area which when coupled with the exquisite cutting design produces unparalled scintillation and light refraction.

The L’Amour Crisscut Classic design is another patented design that has been technically reengineered in proportion and faceting to maximise and effectively optimise light performance and by eliminating the iceberg factor – when costly weight is hidden under the girdle where no one will see it. Instead the weight is distributed to the top giving the look of a diamond that appears 30-60% larger (depending on shape) than traditionally cut diamonds.

The L’Amour Crisscut Pear shape is again up to 50% larger than conventionally cut pear shape diamonds with its own detailed facet design and scintillating performance. The smaller pear shapes make beautiful shoulder diamonds in a single stone or three stone ring.

All of the Crisscut Diamonds above 0.30cts come with their own GIA Certification.

The new Crisscut Diamonds are really exciting to work with being so different and so bright! Having just received our new loose diamond collection from New York we are busy making up some exciting new designs to mount them in.

Wharton Goldsmith, 1-2 George Street, St Albans AL3 4ER 01727 859489 whartongoldsmith.com

VS

1.00ct Generic Emerald Cut

VS

1.00ct L’Amour Crisscut® Classic

ENHANCED SCINTILLATION BRIGHTER, WHITER APPEARANCE UP TO 50% LARGER

1.00ct Generic Oval Cut

1.00ct L’Amour Crisscut® Oval

NO BOWTIE EFFECT EVEN DISTRIBUTION OF BRILLIANCE UP TO 30% LARGER

“The L’Amour Crisscut Classic design is another patented design that has been technically re-engineered in proportion and faceting to maximise and effectively optimise light performance and by eliminating the iceberg factor – when costly weight is hidden under the girdle where no one will see it” 16 DECEMBER 2020

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18ct Yellow Gold Marrakech Onde handmade diamond set earrings Diamond weight 0.03ct £660.00

18ct Yellow Gold Africa Studs £1,848.00 18ct Yellow Gold Drop Earrings £1920.00 18ct Yellow Gold Africa Diamond Set Pendant Length 80cm.

Diamond weight 0.033ct £1,730.00

18ct Yellow Gold Marrakech Onde handmade necklace Length 46cm £3,995.00

Marco Bicego

AT WHARTON GOLDSMITH 18ct Yellow Gold Lunaria Diamond Set Ring size 55 Diamond Weight 0.14ct £1,860.00

18ct Yellow Gold Lucia Hinged Bangle Diameter 6cm £6,620.00

18ct Yellow Gold Lunaria Necklace Length 46cm £5,000.00

18ct Yellow Gold Hoop Earrings £1,550.00 18ct Yellow Gold Paradise double row multicoloured stone necklace Length 42cm £2,016

18ct Yellow Gold Siviglia diamond set pendant Length 42cm. Diamond content 0.10ct £1,092.00

18ct Yellow Gold Paradise double row multicoloured stone drop earrings £648.00

18ct Yellow Gold Siviglia diamond set drop earrings Diamond weight 0.20ct £648.00

18 DECEMBER 2020

Sterling Silver Savannah 628A Blue Topaz Earrings £595.00

Sterling Silver & Rose Gold Offspring 433B Bracelet £210.00

Sterling Silver Savannah 628B Blue Topaz Ring £495.00

Sterling Silver & Rose Gold Offspring 433B Pendant £265.00

Sterling Silver Savannah 628A Pendant £495.00

Georg Jensen

AT WHARTON GOLDSMITH Sterling Silver Mercy 634C Pendant £250.00 Sterling Silver & Yellow Gold Mercy 501B Hoop Earrings £1,100.00

Sterling Silver & Yellow Gold Mercy 501 Ring £1,350.00 Sterling Silver Mercy 501C Neckring £995.00 Sterling Silver Diamond Set Offspring 433B Pendant 0.08ct £350.00

Sterling Silver Mercy 501B Bangle £595.00

Sterling Silver Diamond Set Offspring 432B Earrings 0.19ct £525.00

No. 1-2 George Street, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4ER • Tel: 01727 859 489 Email: showroom@whartongoldsmith.com • whartongoldsmith.com DECEMBER 2020 19

FEATURE 18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Pendant £1,880.00

18ct White Gold Multi Sapphire & Diamond Rainbow Small Hoop Earring £2,680.00 18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Stud Earrings £1,690.00

18ct White Gold Sapphire & Diamond Flower Ring £1,850.00

18ct White Gold Multi Sapphire & Diamond Rainbow Ring £2,270.00

The Wharton Goldsmith Collection

AT WHARTON GOLDSMITH

9ct Yellow Gold Akoya 7mm Cultured Pearl Studs 7mm £179.00

18ct Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl & Diamond Pendant £860.00

18ct White & Rose Gold Diamond Set Eternity Pendant £1,855.00

18ct White Gold Diamond Studs in Martini Style Setting From £695.00

18ct Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl & Diamond Earrings £895.00

18ct Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl & Diamond Ring £1,170.00

18ct White Gold Diamond Line Bracelet From 1980.00

18ct White Gold & Diamond Circle Pendant. An original

by Christopher Wharton 2.05ct Diamonds £7,895.00

No. 1-2 George Street, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL3 4ER • Tel: 01727 859 489 Email: showroom@whartongoldsmith.com • whartongoldsmith.com 20 DECEMBER 2020

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Christmas Comes To St Albans The Ivy St Albans Brasserie celebrates Christmas with installation and limitededition cocktail menu

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his Christmas, The Ivy St Albans Brasserie will celebrate with a joyful, festive installation in the heart of the city for guests and passers-by to enjoy, as well as a limited-edition cocktail menu that features a Christmas cocktail in partnership with Maker’s Mark, available from Wednesday, 2 December.

The showstopping Gingerbread Manhattan (£9.75) complete with Maker’s Mark Bourbon stirred with Lillet blanc and Lillet Rouge and a gingerbread spice syrup will be mixed up by the restaurant’s bar team. Other delicious creations include the Tokyo Snow (£9.95) featuring winter spices shaken with Haku Japanese Vodka and cranberry juice, the Winters Kiss £10.50) incorporating Haku Japanese Vodka, peach liqueur, Fino Sherry and cranberry syrup, finished with Fever-Tree Soda Water & Prosecco, the Truffled Flip (£10.50), a “tiramisu” cocktail with Courvoisier VSOP Cognac, Pedro Ximenez Sherry, egg white, Tiramisu syrup and cream shaken and finished with cocoa powder and a salted caramel chocolate truffle, the Nashi Bellini (£9.25) featuring Roku Japanese Gin, pear purée and cinnamon spice topped with Prosecco, and finally a Cognac Mulled Wine (£9.95) a hot blend of red wine, Courvoisier VSOP Cognac, winter spices, cinnamon and orange.

On arrival, those diners wishing to try the festive stirs, will be met with a beautiful installation at the brasserie’s entrance, complete with traditional festive decorations and seasonal foliage, whilst inside, guests will be able to get in the Christmas spirit with the selection of delicious, bespoke cocktails.

For those looking to indulge in something a little sweeter, the brasserie will also be serving up a bespoke desert this December; Letter to Santa (£9.25), is a traditional offering to Santa and his

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helpers, and is perfect for guests who want to really enjoy the spirit of Christmas.

Ewa Jordan, General Manager at The Ivy St Albans Brasserie says: “This year more than ever, it’s so important that we help spread Christmas cheer and positivity to our guests and neighbours alike. We hope to put a smile on peoples’ faces as they pass by and look forward to welcoming diners over the coming weeks as we approach the most magical time of the year.”

Nick Temperley, General Manager at EdringtonBeam Suntory UK commented: “We are very proud to be partnering with The Ivy this festive season. We look forward to guests enjoying the menu of delicious cocktails after what has been an incredibly tough year”.

The Ivy St Albans Brasserie looks forward to welcoming guests back this December, subject to additional announcements from the Government.

Reservations can be made now via theivystalbans. com. Whilst service will still remain a priority, the restaurant will be continuing to implement the highest standards of health and safety, ensuring both guests and employees will be dining and working in confidence and in a safe environment.

All details can be viewed via our website. theivystalbans.com

“This year more than ever, it’s so important that we help spread Christmas cheer and positivity to our guests and neighbours alike”

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Celebrate The Festive Season In Style At Sopwell House

With roaring open fires, festive lights and trees laden with glittering baubles, Sopwell House is offering guests a luxurious home-away-from-home this festive season with new packages for guests to enjoy.

FOR THE INDULGENT SPA-GOERS For those looking for some much-needed pampering, the Indulgent Residential Packages include accommodation in an Executive Bedroom, Afternoon Tea on Christmas Eve afternoon, a choice of traditional festive cuisine or delicious healthy alternatives across Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and full access to The Club at Cottonmill. Guests staying for two nights receive a complimentary spa treatment each and guests staying for three nights receive two treatments each, with all guests also receiving a complimentary programme of wellbeing classes and activities such as morning meditation, stretch and massage masterclasses, fitness classes and holistic workshops.

The Two Night Package starts from £989 per person. The Three Night Package starts from £1,479 per person. Prices for children are available upon request. Price based on sharing a double or twin Executive Bedroom.

FOR A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS For the ultimate in comfort and joy this Christmas, the Traditional Residential Packages include accommodation in a Deluxe Bedroom, Afternoon Tea on Christmas Eve afternoon, delicious food accompanied by wine, spirits and fizz throughout Christmas Day and Boxing Day, and family entertainment. All guests are invited to use Cottonmill leisure facilities and relaxing spa treatments and Games Room access can be booked in advance.

The Two Night Package starts from £769 per 24 DECEMBER 2020

adult and £300 per child. The Three Night Package starts from £1,139 per adult and £450 per child. Price based on sharing a double or twin Deluxe Bedroom.

FOR THE LITTLE ONES Not forgetting the younger guests, an activity pack will be given on arrival including complimentary colouring books, pens, pencils and games.

Special Afternoon Tea will be held on Christmas Eve and a visit from Father Christmas during Christmas Lunch is sure to continue the Christmas excitement. From Christmas Eve to Boxing Day, children can enjoy splash times in the Cottonmill swimming pool, the Games Room, festive films at the Sopwell Cinema (with two or three viewings per day) and time to explore the 12 acres of grounds.

“Sopwell House is offering guests a luxurious home-awayfrom-home this festive season”

FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA Sopwell House’s popular Traditional Afternoon Tea is infused with a magical festive twist with treats including dark chocolate and ginger reindeer, Christmas fruitcake, a chocolate and coconut Christmas bauble, turkey and cranberry sandwiches – and more! Add mulled wine or a glass of Champagne for that extra sparkle.

Afternoon Tea is available from £29.95 per person, £34.95 per person with mulled wine or £39.95 per person with Champagne.

Available between 1 – 30 December, excluding Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

elegant 7-course New Year’s Eve dinner in the Restaurant accompanied by wine pairing, a wonderful live duet performing throughout the evening, Champagne and breakfast on New Year’s Day. Guests will also enjoy full access to The Club at Cottonmill facilities.

The Indulgent New Year’s Package starts from £429 per person, based on sharing a double or twin Executive Bedroom. The Club at Cottonmill spa facilities are available from 3pm check in to 8pm New Year’s Eve and available until 11am check out on New Year’s Day.

A ‘BUBBLE’ CELEBRATION

RING IN THE NEW YEAR Say goodbye to 2020 with the Traditional New Year’s Package - a 7-course New Year’s Eve feast in the St Albans Suite accompanied by a wine pairing, followed by a live DJ set and Champagne. Enjoy accommodation in a Deluxe Room, use of the relaxing Cottonmill leisure facilities and a delicious breakfast the next morning.

The Traditional New Year’s Package starts from £349 per person, based on sharing a double or twin Deluxe Bedroom. Cottonmill leisure facilities are available from 3pm check in to 8pm New Year’s Eve and available until 11am check out on New Year’s Day.

A NIGHT TO REMEMBER For an extra special way to welcome 2021, the Indulgent New Year’s Package includes accommodation in an Executive bedroom, an

“The perfect excuse to get the whole family together this festive season for a ‘bubble holiday’, the luxurious Mews Suites are available for exclusive use”

The perfect excuse to get the whole family together this festive season for a ‘bubble holiday’, the luxurious Mews Suites are available for exclusive use. The Suites are set across from the main hotel and accessed through secure gates, with beautifully landscaped gardens and a Hydro Pool. Each of the 16 suites exudes glamorous countryside chic with an array of individually designed rooms and cottages, with some including feature fireplaces, four-poster beds, in-room baths, private terraces, self-sufficient kitchenets and private hot tubs.

Exclusive use of the Mews Suites starts from £10,000 per night including 16 Mews Suites sleeping 32 guests, on a B&B basis, with complimentary access for all adults to The Club at Cottonmill (treatments are an additional cost). This offer does not include any of the above Christmas itinerary, and is only available in accordance with government guidelines when permitted. sopwellhouse.co.uk/christmas-and-new-year DECEMBER 2020 25

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Jingle Bill’s

Bill’s St Albans decks the halls and lights up the nation’s Christmas spirits this year

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his Christmas, Bill’s Restaurant & Bar is lighting up the nation with Jingle Bill’s, an exciting array of Christmas delights that will bring Christmas back into

colour.

Guests can soak up the Christmas spirit and marvel at Bill’s St Albans colourful neon-inspired installation whilst indulging in a selection of bespoke Christmas cocktails and special dishes not to be missed.

Mixed by Bill’s creative Bar team, Bill’s St Albans has created a collection of festive concoctions, including a Roku around the Christmas Tree made with Roku gin and garnished with a lemon twist, and a Seville Old Fashioned and Winter in Manhattan featuring Maker’s Mark; making this December a jolly one.

The Christmas menu features a collection of firm favourites – including Pigs in Blankets Mac & Cheese, a Boxing Day Turkey Curry and a Warm Apple and Mincemeat Crumble served with spiced custard & vanilla ice cream. Let’s not forget the devisive sprouts, which will delight even the most anti-sprouters with a truffled buffalo sauce and vegan cheese dip, and last but by no means least, the Bill’s festive burger with bacon, stilton and red onion.

Reservations are now open and can be booked online at bills-website.co.uk

26 DECEMBER 2020

“The Christmas menu features a collection of firm favourites”

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Introducing Linden Leaf

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inden Leaf is a new distillery in Cambridge that has only been selling spirits for just over a year but has already picked up a huge range of top awards. Founded by three Cambridge scientists and engineers who share a passion for food and drink, they make organic spirits which are crafted and tuned at the molecular level.

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Applying their scientific backgrounds, they use a clever piece of kit called GC-MS to analyse botanicals and work out exactly what molecules make each taste and smell. They then use a special chilled extraction method to pull exactly the molecules they want from each botanical.

Combined with their passion for ingredients and flavour, they’ve discovered some amazing flavours.

Above: A bottle of Linden Leaf ’s prize-winning 88 Organic Molecular gin in their cocktail test kitchen.

Opposite, clockwise from top: Some of the amazing botanicals that Linden Leaf uses to make their spirits; Mukund and Paul, two of the founders of Linden Leaf, working in the laboratory on amazing new flavours; Linden Leaf ’s new sustainable Cocktail Elements garnishes.

THE DETAILS Linden Leaf ’s spirits are available from their own website lindenleaf.co.uk where you can use the discount code WINTER2020 to get free shipping until 31 January 2021.

They are also available through leading online retailers including Twisted Cellar: twistedcellar.co.uk Hipflask: hipflask.shop “We hunt locally and globally for the best conventional spices, herbs and fruit: from dried juniper berries to fresh Buddha’s hand lemons. We also try just about anything else we can think of.

How about oak moss? Walnut husks? Seaweed?

Sprouting potatoes?” says Dr Matthew Webster, one of the three founders. “All of our products meet the stringent requirements for organic certification by the Soil Association. We believe in supporting organic farmers and producers: not only because of their ideals but also because they often make the highest quality produce.”

Their spirits have won top prizes across the board this year, including prestigious gold awards in the major London, Tokyo and San Francisco competitions. Away from pure drinks competitions, they received two of the coveted, three star awards in the Great Taste Awards this year.

Their 88 gin uses 28 different botanicals, giving a layered perfume and an immensely long flavour profile: heady high notes of lemon zest and blossoms, through middle notes of pine and juniper and finally a warm, rich base of berries and citrus peppers, with hints of winter spice.

Even their Singularity vodka is special, with a clean flavour and smooth silky mouthfeel.

“We studied how alcohol and water interact at a molecular level. Carefully-selected organic alcohol is blended with a unique mineral water using an exacting method to produce Singularity. The smoothest vodka known to science? We think so.” says Matthew.

This summer, they introduced a new, sustainable

range of garnishes, called Cocktail Elements – initially in Lemon, Lime and Orange but with many more in the works. These are are organic sprays made with only two ingredients: the freshest produce and carefully-selected organic alcohol.

They deliver a hyper-concentrated burst of flavour and fragrance to cocktails.

These were initially introduced to help bars reduce wastage while delivering the best in peak season garnish flavour throughout the year. “Our production techniques extract every drop of scent and flavour from each fruit. For example, just 3 lemons can produce a spray that can garnish over 80 drinks.” explains Matthew. “Try a spritz of lemon on an ice-cold dry Martini. Perhaps some lime on your favourite G&T? How about a spray of orange on a perfectly- balanced Old Fashioned, or topping off an unforgettable Aperol spritz?”

It’s great to see a small company applying technology and new approached to make such tasty products.

Master of Malt: masterofmalt.com The Whisky Exchange: thewhiskyexchange.com

DECEMBER 2020 29

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Internationally acclaimed

‘THE ART OF BANKSY’ EXHIBITION is coming to Covent Garden. 25 March 2021 – 26 September 2021. The UK’s first chance to see the world’s largest touring collection of Banksy artworks

THE DETAILS Tickets to this long-awaited exhibition are the perfect gift for any culture-seeker this Christmas.

Tickets on sale now at artofbanksy.co.uk or call 08440 412001 50 Earlham St, West End, London WC2H 9LJ @ArtBanksyLondon Covid 19 social distancing will be enforced throughout the exhibition as well as safety protocols throughout the space.

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nticipated to be one of the stand-out shows of the spring and not to be missed, the world’s largest touring exhibition of Banksy Artworks is coming to London. For the very first time, the UK will host an array of unique pieces from the mysterious political activist, satirist and artist, who has spent most of the last three decades anonymously tagging the streets of the world.

This globally acclaimed showcase features original and authenticated works associated with, arguably, the most intriguing and talked-about artist in modern history. On display are prints, canvasses, screen prints, sculptures, unique works and limited-edition pieces mainly dated between the years 1997 to 2008, the period which resulted in Banksy’s most recognisable and well-known works.

On loan from private collectors across the globe, the colossal collection includes authenticated and certified Banksy artworks rarely seen in public, alongside iconic favourites such as HMV Dog and Girl and Balloon. Infamous prints, sculptures and limited editions will be scattered across a vast 12,000 square foot space in the heart of Covent Garden.

From Tel Aviv to Toronto, from Melbourne to Miami, the exhibition has welcomed over 750,000

visitors worldwide. Following Banksy’s Show me the Monet artwork collecting over £7.5m at auction, public intrigue around one of the most talked-about artists of the 21st century seems to only be increasing. Decades of rumours continue as to the identity of this world record-breaking artist.

Although The Art of Banksy is not authorised or curated in collaboration with the artist himself, international specialist in the Street Art Genre, Chris Ford, successfully steps up as curator. Chris was instrumental in developing the commercial rise of Banksy’s artwork in the secondary market, successfully placing multi-million pound works into prestigious international collections.

Below: Flower Thrower, part of The Art of Banksy private collection.

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CARL RUSSELL & CO GUNMAKERS C

arl Russell & Co Gunmakers have been established since 2014 and are situated on the picturesque Hatfield Park Estate in Hertfordshire. With over 60 years experience in the British gun trade the team at Carl Russell & Co can advise on all aspects of guns and shooting, we specialise in British shotguns having established our reputation with one of England’s top makers.

Our attractive retail shop is well stocked with new and used shotguns, rifles and air rifles, country clothing and best leather goods. Alongside our retail shop we have full workshop facilities where our time served gunmaker carries out servicing, repairs and renovation work. We have recently expanded both our country clothing and gunroom, the new store opened its doors on 20th April 2019. Still in the same picturesque location on the grounds of the Hatfield House Estate, Carl Russell and Co Gunmakers are stockists of Schoffel, Le Chameau, Laksen, Fairfax and Favor, Really Wild Clothing, Musto, Barbour, Loake, Annabel Brocks,

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Billy Belts, Wrendale Designs, Clare Shaw, Helly Hanson, Hicks and Hides, Hicks and Brown, Dubarry and RM Williams to just name a few of the lifestyle brands. This is alongside our gunroom which stocks an extensive collection of new and used guns from brands including Beretta, Caesar Guerini, KOFS, Browning, Blaser amongst some of the famous English guns from Purdey to Holland and Holland. carlrussellandco.com

“Our attractive retail shop is well stocked with new and used shotguns, rifles and air rifles, country clothing and best leather goods”

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HARRODS CHRISTMAS

2020

Food Hampers

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ampers take the hard work out of entertaining; from feasting options that feed the whole family to gifting varieties of the alcoholic and alcoholfree, Harrods’ beautiful gift baskets are filled to the brim with everything you need to celebrate your most special occasions.

Discover their 2020 festive collection from Harrods’ famous Food Hall - traditional food hampers with mouth-watering food and drink to tickle your taste buds.

Fresh cheeses and cured meats or look to Harrods hampers for a hand-picked selection

all tucked away into two traditional wicker baskets.

The Supreme Christmas Hamper, £1250

Brimming with essential treats for the festival season including the famous Christmas pudding, mince pies, red and white wine alongside Blanc de Blanc Champagne to celebrate the season

Superior provenance is at the heart of the Supreme Christmas hamper, presented in a pair of traditional wicker baskets. The generous selection of charcuterie, cheese, chutney and more is complemented by Champagne, gin and fine wines - along with festive mince pies and a Christmas pudding - all carefully sourced from around the world.

The Boxing Day Hamper, £500 The Boxing Day hamper features a traditional wicker basket filled to the brim with Christmas pudding, luxury Christmas crackers, mince pies and fine wines among many more sweet treats and preserves. This bountiful selection makes for the perfect after-dinner spread to be enjoyed with your nearest and dearest, raising a glass – or even a cup of fine tea – to precious family time.

The Knightsbridge Hamper, £250

The Sharing Hamper, £150

The Christmas Eve Hamper, £600

Encased in the signature wicker basket, this hamper showcases a selection of drinks and snacks to suit every taste from a variety of teas and coffees to sweet and savoury indulgent treats.

Encasing a vast array of sweet and savoury delights, the Christmas Eve hamper curates a mouth-watering selection of food and drink from our famous Food Halls. Find cured meats, cheese, biscuits, tea and coffee, fine wines and cognac are

Enjoy Harrods’ finest.

For the full Harrods Christmas Hamper Collection visit harrods.com/en-gb/christmas-hampers

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“Encasing a vast array of sweet and savoury delights, the Christmas Eve hamper curates a mouth-watering selection of food and drink from our famous Food Halls”

Top, from left: Boxing Day Hamper; The Knightsbridge Hamper; Supreme Christmas Hamper Above: Christmas Eve Hamper Left: Sharing Hamper

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ST ALBANS MUSEUMS RECEIVES LIFELINE GRANT FROM GOVERNMENT’S £1.57BN CULTURE RECOVERY FUND

St Albans Museums has been awarded £143,432 as part of the Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund (CRF) to help face the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and to ensure they have a sustainable future, the Culture Secretary has announced.

St Albans Museums is one of 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving urgently needed support. £257 million of investment was announced as part of the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England. Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks.

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his fund comes at a crucial time for St Albans Museums. After months of closure, both museums were able to safely reopen with new COVID-secure measures in August and September. Since then, the service has continued to adapt to changes in restrictions whilst also providing a welcoming experience for returning visitors.

This fund will allow the museums to recover from the negative financial impact of lockdown and begin rebuilding its programme. The fund will mean that the service can continue providing residents and visitors with thought-provoking exhibitions, displays and installations across both physical and digital platforms.

Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said: “This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation. It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery.

“These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country. This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so

that the culture sector can bounce back strongly.”

Chair, Arts Council England, Sir Nicholas Serota, said: “Theatres, museums, galleries, dance companies and music venues bring joy to people and life to our cities, towns and villages. This life-changing funding will save thousands of cultural spaces loved by local communities and international audiences. Further funding is still to be announced and we are working hard to support our sector during these challenging times.”

Councillor Anthony Rowlands, Portfolio Holder for Leisure, Heritage and Public Realm from St Albans City and District Council (who own the museums), said: “The pandemic has had a significant impact on the museum service. I am grateful to the staff who worked very hard to reopen the museums in the summer. However, the continuing financial implications of closure and ongoing restrictions are not to be underestimated.

The Council is thankful for this grant from Arts Council England which will help future proof the service. This fund will ensure that the community continues to have access to our great history and art as we weather this pandemic together.” stalbansmuseums.org.uk

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Henry Moore Studios & Garden

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enry Moore Studios & Gardens will be opening its sculpture gardens each weekend until the end of 2020, offering visitors a chance to enjoy Henry Moore’s magnificent artworks during these difficult times.

“We understand the enormous benefits of being outdoors, access to green space, nature and inspiring artworks to our health, which has never been so important. This is why we have decided to extend our opening season for the final weekends of the year.” – Godfrey Worsdale Henry Moore Studios & Gardens showcases Henry Moore’s iconic sculptures in a beautiful rural setting. The plentiful outdoor green space ensures that visitors can discover Henry Moore’s sculptures in the landscape he knew so well. The safety and wellbeing of visitors, staff and local communities remains a priority and the team have been hard at work to ensure that visitors can safely enjoy the outdoor space, which lends itself well to social distancing.

Government advice and guidance will be adhered to at all times, which means that the home of Henry Moore, studios, shop will not be open to the public. The online shop will continue to offer customers gifts, homeware, books and clothing.

Booking in advance is encouraged.

The Henry Moore Foundation was founded by the artist and his family in 1977 to encourage

Henry Moore, Double Oval 1966. Photo Joe Norris.

Reproduced by permission of the Henry Moore Foundation

public appreciation of the visual arts. Today it supports innovative sculpture projects, devises an imaginative programme of exhibitions and research worldwide, and preserves the legacy of Moore himself: one of the great sculptors of the 20th century, who did so much to bring the art form to a wider audience.

Henry Moore Studios & Gardens is the home and studios of sculptor Henry Moore, in the Hertfordshire countryside where he conserved and created his internationally recognised sculptures.

This rural home and studio served as a profound source of inspiration, what started off as a modest farmhouse grew to a 72-acre estate and became the epicentre of his global art presence.

The Henry Moore Institute welcomes everyone to visit their Galleries, Research Library and Archive to experience, study and enjoy sculpture from around the world. The Institute can be found in the centre of Leeds, the city where Henry Moore (1898-1986) began his training as a sculptor. Their changing programme of historical, modern and contemporary exhibitions and events encourage thinking about what sculpture is, how it is made and the artists who make it. henry-moore.org/studios-and-gardens

Below: Henry Moore, Double Oval 1966. Photo: Alison Parry. Reproduced by permission of the Henry Moore Foundation

“The Henry Moore Studios & Gardens is the home and studios of sculptor Henry Moore, in the Hertfordshire countryside where he conserved and created his internationally recognised sculptures”

Top left: Henry Moore, Family Group, 1948-1949.

Reproduced by permission of the Henry Moore Foundation Henry Moore, The Arch 1963/69 Reproduced by permission of the Henry Moore Foundation

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Bottom left: Henry Moore, Double Oval 1966. Photo Joe Norris. Reproduced by permission of the Henry Moore Foundation

Phillipson Fine Art

Sourcing contemporary fine art for private and corporate clients +44 (0)7767 677 677 www.phillipsonfineart.co.uk

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AVOIDING THE CHRISTMAS FEUD – CO-PARENTING TIPS

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s a family lawyer I often see separated families struggle to agree arrangements for Christmas holidays.

Christmas is the ultimate family time and it can be heartbreaking for parents to accept their children may not spend time with them.

Here are my top tips to help reduce Christmas tension: • Those all-important school dates - the last day of term or Christmas play - make sure you both have information as early as possible.

• Discuss arrangements well in advance so that you, and the children, know what is happening.

Consider recording agreed dates in writing - less chance for a misunderstanding!

• Generally, Christmas Day is alternated annually between separated parents, although some do manage to share the day. A popular alternating arrangement is Christmas Day/Boxing Day with one parent and New Year’s Eve/ Day with the other parent. Work out a fair arrangement based on how the Christmas holiday falls.

• Consider video and telephone calls – getting the children to call the other parent on the big day if possible.

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• Talk about present buying – make sure it isn’t a competition, and maybe even consider buying gifts from the children to the other parent, which can be positive.

• Try to respect the other parent’s religious beliefs and traditions.

• Small gestures go a long way - packing the child’s bag, getting them to bed early the night before they return to the other parent.

• Consider the longer term – if children are young, there will be many years ahead as coparents. Make communication easy for you both – perhaps use a specific email address, contact diary or shared electronic diary, or make use of parenting apps (eg. OurFamilyWizard or Cozi).

• Keep “grown-up talk” out of ear shot of children, try not to criticise the other parent.

• Consider third party support - mediation or family therapy are both useful for agreeing parenting principles.

• The Child and Family Court Advisory Service (CAFCASS) has produced a template parenting plan - a written document worked out between parents setting down what each parent expects of the other when the child is in their care.

Finally, remember that the priority should always be the children, and their activities and needs over the festive season.

Claire Wood, Legal Director, Rayden Solicitors raydensolicitors.co.uk

“Small gestures go a long way - packing the child’s bag, getting them to bed early the night before they return to the other parent”

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CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS ROWAN AT OSPREY HOME For the knitters in your life here is the perfect gift for any time of year. A hand knitting kit containing enough Kidsilk Haze, Rowan’s best-selling sumptuous silk and mohair fine yarn, combined with Rowan Valley Tweed, a Yorkshire made 100% wool yarn. Worked together they create a beautifully soft and luxurious classic roll neck sweater designed by Quail Studio and taken from the Classic Tweed Style collection. The hand-picked kit is individually packaged and contains all yarns needed for the sweater including the pattern book and a beautiful set of Rowan Birchwood knitting needles. Sustainably sourced and FSC certified, these knitting needles are a delight to work with; warm and smooth to the touch, extremely light, yet strong and durable. This knitting kit is available from Rowan’s flagship store at Rowan at OSPREY HOME, The Saddlery, Woodcock Hill, Coopers Green Lane, St Albans, AL4 9HJ, where our friendly and expert Rowan team can help with all your knitting needs.

Mail order 07970 880258 or online rowanatospreyhome.co.uk

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SMALLFORD FARM SHOP Put a smile on your loved ones face this Christmas and create the perfect gift from our wide range of local and artisan producers. From chocolate and chutneys to wines and whiskeys, speciality teas and biscuits to homeware and hampers. And if you can’t decide ask for a gift voucher at the checkout. Nestled in between St Albans, Hatfield and Colney Heath there is plenty of easy parking and lots of space inside to make your shopping easy and safe. Enjoy your Christmas shopping at the Smallford Farm Shop. @SmallfordFShop smallfordfarmshop.com

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HICKS & BROWN SUFFOLK FEDORA A true classic, The Suffolk fedora has been famously showcased in Hello! magazine, Harper’s Bazaar, Glamour and more. Leading the range is the stunning Camel Fedora hat in hand finished wool felt, with guinea and pheasant feathers fastened behind a branded leather band. £89.00 carlrussellandco.com

THE IVY ST ALBANS GIFT CARD

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Struggling for gift inspiration? The Ivy St Albans gift card is the perfect way to treat friends or family this Christmas. They’ll get to enjoy the impeccable menu and service to match at any of our beautiful brasseries, or simply soak up their surroundings with a carefully crafted cocktail in hand. Why buy a present when you can gift an experience?

The Ivy St Albans is open 7 days a week and offers sophisticated dining in a relaxed and welcoming environment. The Ivy St Albans gift card is available from a minimum of £25 and is set to put a smile on anyone’s face this festive season. theivystalbans.com

EVE AND ADAM GIFT CARDS Who doesn’t enjoy, or deserve a pamper, after this year?

Eve & Adam Beauty Clinic, set in the heart of the city, offers a full range of beauty and wellbeing treatments for everyone.

Gift cards, along with skincare products and gifts from just £15, are available to purchase online at eve-and-adam.com

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BILL’S GIFT VOUCHERS

SCHOFFEL LADIES AND MENS FLEECE

This year Christmas shopping is a little different, so give your friends or family a treat they can experience for up to 12 months.

The Bill’s Gift Card is the present to experience together in 2021, whether it be breakfast, cocktails and lunch with friends, or dinner for a loved one. Send as a virtual e-voucher for those at a distance or a little short of time, or as a beautiful packaged printed card in the post. bills-website.co.uk

Ladies Tilton ¼ Zip Fleece - the perfect cosy mid layer. Benefitting from a delightfully flattering fit this fleece is versatile for wearing as insulation under a coat or jacket or as a smart outer layer over a shirt.

The fleece is quick-drying and machine washable - perfectly practical for country pursuits. £169.95.

Mens Cottesmore Fleece is ideal for transitioning from town to country, and the Alcantara trim creates a smart and stylish fleece, ideal for keeping you warm and cosy. With two zipped pockets, ideal for holding your possessions, this premium weight fleece with heat retention and quick drying benefits is an essential piece to get you through the Winter months. £189.95. carlrussellandco.com

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DECEMBER 2020 43

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FOREVER FLOWERS BY REBECCA CLARK INTERIORS

LINDEN LEAF

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Cocktail Elements are taking the bar world by storm. They are sustainable, organic sprays made with only two ingredients: the freshest produce and carefully-selected organic grain alcohol. They deliver a hyper-concentrated burst of flavour and fragrance to cocktails and spirit drinks. Using fruit from the best organic producers at the peak of their season, an amazing new chilled distillation technology, tuned at the molecular level, extracts every nuance of the scent and taste. Try a spritz of lemon on an ice-cold dry Martini. Lime on your favourite G&T? Orange on an unforgettable Aperol spritz? £10 each or £25 for three. lindenleaf.co.uk/shop

Rebecca Clark Interiors have a stunning collection of hand painted silk bouquets that truly are a Christmas gift that keeps on giving. Choose elegant white hydrangeas and roses that will look perfectly freshly cut all year round, or choose from ready made seasonal arrangements with blowsy peonies or Christmassy jewel coloured displays such as this beautiful ready made piece priced at £390, all of which are already arranged in elegant glass vases. You can create your own with stems available to buy individually, priced from £8, or let the clever creatives at Rebecca Clark Interiors create something truly bespoke for you. For the simplest way to give these beauties as a gift this Christmas, simply order an arrangement online and have it delivered to you, or anywhere in the UK. (Orders need to be placed by 14th December for delivery in time for Christmas) Available at Rebecca Clark Interiors, 140 High Street, Berkhamsted, Herts, HP4 3AT. Call us on 01442 875701 or shop online at rebeccaclarkinteriors.co.uk

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11 HANDMADE LIQUEURS

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44 DECEMBER 2020

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

SOPWELL HOUSE Give your loved ones something to look forward to in 2021 with a Sopwell House or Cottonmill Spa luxury gift experience. Spoil them with an indulgent overnight spa break for two with access to all the Club spa facilities, a relaxing spa day with refreshing treatment, a delicious Afternoon Tea with a glass of bubbles or even a three course dining experience in our Restaurant. Whatever you choose, your lucky recipient will be treated to comfort and joy this Christmas!

Visit sopwellhouse.co.uk to purchase email gift vouchers right up until Christmas eve.

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Shop Amazing

St Albans this Christmas S

t Albans Bid are delighted to announce that Christmas will definitely be coming to St Albans this year! Building on the success of last years animated pieces St Albans City Centre will have lots of twinkly lights and Instagram opportunities with our red carriage and snow globe which were extremely popular last year plus additional pieces yet to be announced but may include a rather spectacular reindeer on a roof! We cannot unfortunately have our big annual ‘switch on’ event ‘The Christmas Cracker’ for obvious reasons this year but our hard-working businesses that fund activities & lights in our city centre via The Bid still wanted to welcome visitors and make destination St Albans a fantastic experience for all that visit us.

Our city centre is ready to welcome shoppers and visitors safely. All our shops, bars, restaurants & cafes are all Covid safe & have the relevant PPE in place to make our shoppers feel safe. Browse our shopping centres like The Maltings & Christopher Place or visit some of our independents down in the Cathedral Quarter of High Street, Holywell Hill & George Street. We also have our famous Charter market every Wednesday & Saturday which has been running over 900 years and has a wealth of traders selling everything from watch batteries to tasty street food. Plus, artisan pop ups markets are running every Friday through November with our popular’ Inside Out’ market bringing retailers and traders together in a safe trading environment. We all love a market at Christmas don’t we so in addition to our normal market offering there will be extra artisan pop ups from 30th November and our Christmas Charter Market running every day from 12th December to Christmas Eve. Always a fabulous atmosphere!

If shopping is not enough for you then take in some of our Roman & Medieval History by

46 DECEMBER 2020

strolling down to Verulamium Park via our amazing Cathedral down to the oldest pub in the country ‘Ye Olde Fighting Cocks’ or grab a coffee and sit by our Medieval Clock Tower & not forgetting our wonderful Museum & Gallery which hosts some really fantastic exhibitions!

There really is so much to do in St Albans this Christmas so why not come for the day or even make a weekend of it by staying in one of our local Hotels.

For those of you who may wish to visit us virtually then head to www.enjoystalbans.com for our virtual offering of Christmas activities for all the family in partnership with St Albans District Council or take a look at our shopping directory and buy online and support local businesses.

Don’t forget - if you are stuck for present ideas this year then the St Albans Gift Card might be just what you are looking for. Buy online stalbansgiftcard.co.uk and redeemable in over 50 independent stores, café’s & restaurants locally.

THE DETAILS For more information on everything happening in St Albans this Christmas then follow us on Instagram & Facebook @enjoystalbans @shopstalbans & please do tag us when you visit.

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PETER PAN December 11th 2020 – January 3rd 2021

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he Maltings Theatre is delighted to announce that 2020’s festive season at the Alban Arena will open on December 11th 2020 with a brand new musical production of JM Barrie’s legendary tale.

The Alban Arena announced in September that the scheduled production of Mother Goose would be postponed until 2021 due ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. But in order not to disappoint audiences Alban Arena and Maltings Theatre’s resident company OVO are joining forces to bring Peter Pan to Alban Arena this Christmas.

OVO has recently developed an excellent reputation for creating safe, socially distanced live performances at the open air Roman Theatre and The Maltings Theatre and will be applying similar guidelines to all 38 performances of Peter Pan at Alban Arena. The Alban Arena will be reconfigured to safely seat 40% of its normal capacity while ensuring that the experience for audiences will be as entertaining and magical as ever.

Adam Nichols, Artistic Director of Maltings Theatre and OVO, and director of Peter Pan says: “In this most difficult year for our area, and the country at large, we think it’s more important than ever to bring the St Albans community together and provide some much needed entertainment, amusement and festive cheer. We are incredibly excited to have the opportunity to present Peter Pan, a spectacular Christmas show with music, magic and mischief aplenty!”

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The 15-strong cast of Peter Pan features many of the popular actors who featured in Maltings Theatre’s recent productions indoors at the Maltings Theatre in St Albans and outdoors at the Roman Theatre in Verulamium Park. The cast includes Felipe Pacheco (multiple roles in the Maltings’ production of Henry V) as Peter Pan; Flora Squires (39 Steps, Merry Wives) as Wendy Darling; Anna Franklin (Merry Wives, Regina Monologues) as the Narrator; Emma Wright (Merry Wives, Twelfth Night) as Mary Darling; Jo Servi (Merry Wives) as Gentleman Starkey; Matthew Parker (award-winning director of Henry V, Trestle) as Nana/Smee and Will Pattle (Merry Wives) as Michael Darling – and more! £1 from every ticket purchased for Peter Pan will be donated to Great Ormond Street Hospital, helping to support children’s healthcare and the efforts to find new and better ways to treat childhood illnesses.

The production has been made possible through a partnership between OVO and 1Life, which manages the Alban Arena on behalf of St Albans City and District Council.

Mark Braithwaite, Managing Director of 1Life, said: “We are delighted that the residents of St Albans will have the opportunity to enjoy a family show on their doorstep in 2020. We are really looking forward to seeing what OVO will create, and helping to ensure that audiences can enjoy a safe and healthy – as well as a highly entertaining – evening out.”

“In this most difficult year for our area, and the country at large, we think it’s more important than ever to bring the St Albans community together and provide some much needed entertainment”

THE DETAILS Tickets for Peter Pan are on sale now from ticketsource.co.uk/ovo 10% discount on all tickets bought before November 20th 2020

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Christmas at intu Watford

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hilst things may be a little different this year, Christmas is ‘Claus’ for celebration, and intu Watford are excited to welcome you back for all things festive from 2 December.

If you’re visiting for the centre’s essential services from 5 November – or you’re planning your post lockdown visit – intu Watford are asking for any generous donations of craft items to be dropped off at a box located on the upper mall next to Goldsmiths. These items will be given to Watford Mencap, a charity for people with learning disabilities, and passed onto countless families this Christmas time.

Once the centre has reopened for non-essential shopping in early December, you’ll be able to sing along to your favourite Christmas tunes and walk beneath the twinkling lights. You can also visit their colour-changing shooting star in the Atrium.

You’ll no doubt need to get up to speed with your Christmas shopping, too! From delicate decorations at Flying Tiger, baking essentials at Lakeland, festive food at M&S, cards and wrapping paper at Card Factory and Clintons, terrific toys at LEGO, luxe beauty buys at Next Beauty & Home, and extra special gifts available at a range of jewellers – you can tick everything off your Christmas to-do list.

And don’t forget that all-important Christmas jumper for Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper 50 DECEMBER 2020

“Once the centre has reopened for nonessential shopping in early December, you’ll be able to sing along to your favourite Christmas tunes and walk beneath the twinkling lights”

Day on 11 December. The more outrageous the better! You will be able to shop sparkly and bold knits at New Look, H&M, Next, Primark, Topshop and Topman to name just a few.

When you’re all shopped out, you’ll be able to warm up with a Christmassy coffee (oh go on then, and a mince pie!) – or perhaps enjoy a delicious lunch to catch up with family and friends – at one of intu Watford’s many cafes and restaurants. If you’re missing them in the meantime, check directly to see who’s offering takeaway services.

We might be staying safe at home for now, but there’s so much to look forward to when we’re given the green light to get cracking on all things Christmas! watford-shopping.co.uk

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A happy dog means a happy home. All our services are private 1-2-1 sessions ensuring high level personal care.

Please visit our Facebook page for more information, photos and videos @waggieswonderdogs www.waggieswonderdogs.co.uk phone - 07743 012804 email - info@waggieswonderdogs.co.uk

AFFORDABLE EXCELLENCE Award winning airport transfer and business travel specialists Executive Cars and Experienced Drivers Reliable | Professional | Trusted bookings@hertsexec.co.uk

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www.hertsexec.co.uk

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Everything you need for a CHRISTMAS TO REMEMBER

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hristmas has officially arrived at the farm shop so you can start your Christmas shopping early. We have gifts and goodies for all farm shop foodies. The Christmas order books are ready and the farm shop is full to bursting with goodies for the ultimate feast. Our empty hamper bags will give you room to be creative and tailor your hamper to the lucky recipient from beers and wines to chutneys and preserves, from sweets and chocolates to gifts from Meg Hawkins or local artist Hannah Sessions. And if you are not sure what to give your loved ones - gift vouchers make the perfect gift.

Christmas shopping made easy Open until 9pm on 9th and 10th December – we have late night shopping days for you to avoid the crowds and enjoy your Christmas shopping. Meet suppliers and get prepared for everything you need to make this Christmas special. Nestled between Hatfield, St Albans and Colney Heath, there is plenty of parking and wheelchair accessible. Shop local, shop British, shop safe. smallfordfarmshop.com

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HAVE A SPARKLING CHRISTMAS www.gatwardsofhitchin.co.uk

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Paradise Wildlife Park is back Open!

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fter a second lockdown, Paradise Wildlife Park reopened to the public again on Wednesday the 2nd of December at 9am. We are truly grateful for all your support over this year and again during the second lockdown. It was a very difficult time for us, and we appreciate all your donations to keep us afloat.

You can get your tickets for December from our website. Please be aware that the previous booking system will still be in operation. There will be seven arrival slots between 9am and 12pm for you to choose and book onto.

Book your tickets !

Christmas is a little extra special this year as we celebrate the festive season with Father Christmas himself. Yes, Santa will be here this year! As a massive thank-you to all our visitors and supporters, the Santa meet and greets will be completely FREE of charge. We hope this brings you some joy to end a very challenging 2020. We have considered safety measures by allowing for a 2m space between Santa and visitors and utilising our outdoor Safari Stage as this year’s Grotto.

Please be aware that Santa will be in the Grotto 54 DECEMBER 2020

between 9am and 4pm with an hour for a mince pie break! Santa meet and greets are first come, first served so please make sure you get in the queue early for the best chance to meet Santa.

We cannot guarantee the chance to meet Santa.

Make sure to book your tickets on our website in advance!

We hope you enjoy your time with us at Paradise Wildlife Park, we cannot wait to welcome you all back! pwpark

“Christmas is a little extra special this year as we celebrate the festive season with Father Christmas himself”

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FEATURE

Making Travel Better, Not Just Safer

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he last few months have been tough going for everyone. We understand that traveling is going to take a while to return and when it does, it will be slow and uncertain.

In the meantime, our regional bases in Hertfordshire and London have remained open for business with our private fleet of executive vehicles being used to take passengers weary of using public transport, to and from workplaces, meetings and hospital appointments. Our local knowledge and personal service has been invaluable in helping people to get on with their lives.

Like many businesses, we have adapted our operational protocols to keep our drivers and passengers safe. This includes deep cleaning every vehicle between journeys and drivers and passengers wearing face mask coverings to ensure safe and protected journeys.

With an outstanding safety record and over 20 years of delivering a reliable and trusted private hire service, we have seen many ups and downs.

One thing we know for sure is that people continue to be curious when it comes to learning about different cultures and travelling, whether it be for business or pleasure. We are as passionate as

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ever to serve our passengers, whenever you need us, which is why we are the first choice when it comes to UK airport transfers, making travel not just safer, but better.

Herts Executive is an award-winning airport transfer and car service company providing an excellent service at affordable prices. hertsexec.co.uk

“Like many businesses, we have adapted our operational protocols to keep our drivers and passengers safe�

EDUC ATION

58 DECEMBER 2020

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EDUC ATION

Preparing Pupils Mentally and Physically for Exams and Careers

By Lara Péchard, Head at St Margaret’s School, Bushey

N

o one can argue that sixth form students across the country are facing an extraordinary situation right now as the countdown begins for exams in 2021. Questions and worries stem from the fallout of this summer, whether exams will actually take place next year and what the method of assessment might be? For the longer term, students are also anxious about what university will look like for them and what career opportunities will be at the end of this whole crisis?

Life has not been easy for sixth form students and next academic year is no different (except we have great insight into what could go wrong again) and now we have the added pressure of reports suggesting that young people will be the biggest hit by the growing unemployment rise, it’s no wonder that mental health and general wellbeing is suffering right now.

What schools can do is to start looking to create a robust evidence trail of all assessments and A-level grades in a way that is understood by everyone. We should be prepared to answer questions, offering some form of clarity and instilling confidence in our young people at a time when they need it most. Schools must also support the theory that ‘your best is good enough’ and that any future assessment of the work completed will need to take a holistic approach over the duration of study.

Clear and open communication will be required in order to best allay concerns but also to avoid any tension. Being very clear about how different grades might work will be key if we do end up using Centre Assessed Grades (CAG) again.

Interestingly, universities and UCAS are operating on the usual deadlines and it has been reassuring to hear there are plentiful 2021 places available.

Schools will also need to be prepared for Year 13 students to over-worry about whether their teachers have adequate evidence of their potential and how they are collecting that evidence; there is so much to contend with. Many schools have responded by offering wellbeing sessions, tips on how to deal with anxiety, support with university applications, careers advice, video sessions on mindfulness or yoga and more.

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Sharing stories of how recent leavers are finding different pathways during this time should excite students. Whilst plenty of recent leavers have headed off to university in the last few weeks, there are also plenty of great gap year opportunities taking place.

Schools don’t have a crystal ball, we cannot see into the future and so discussion around the economy and careers advice for the future is a learning curve for all, but we have to have these conversations openly and honestly, talk to students about how they are feeling and how this pandemic is impacting them right now. They will have questions about their future and we should be prepared to jump on board that potential ‘rollercoaster’ with them. stmargaretsbushey.co.uk

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EDUC ATION

AN EXCEPTIONAL OFFER FOR EXCEPTIONAL YOUNG WOMEN

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rom September 2021, Queenswood, a leading independent girls’ school in Brookmans Park, Hertfordshire, is offering 50% reduction in day fees to successful candidates for the Sixth Form Academic Scholarship. Our aim is to make an enriching, empowering and stimulating educational experience available to as many talented young women as possible.

Queenswood’s Academic Scholars demonstrate insatiable intellectual curiosity, both in their particular fields of interest and in the wider world.

They demonstrate the potential to achieve the highest grades, and aspire to study at the most prestigious higher education institutions.

The Academic Scholarship programme is built around a termly cycle of university-style seminars.

Members of the academic staff set stimulus material on a topic related to, but not covered by, the school’s schemes of work, and Scholars come together at the end of each unit to discuss their findings and defend their opinions. In doing so, they will explore classical and contemporary literature, the latest scientific research in biology, physics, computer technology and cosmology, and the most profound philosophical questions.

In addition, Scholars have available to them a vast array of subject-specific extension courses and other enrichment courses set by teaching staff

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for self-study. They meet regularly with their staff mentor to discuss their individual targets, and are actively encouraged to enter external competitions set by universities and learned societies.

Opportunities abound for enrichment activities such as Model United Nations conferences, seminars and TED talks on matters of cultural and scientific interest. Scholars also benefit from exclusive visits to exhibitions, museums and places of historical interest, with guided tours and talks by experts in their field.

Queenswood is inviting Academic Scholarship applications from aspirational girls who are currently in Year 11 and who are intellectually curious, with a love of debate and a willingness to engage with new ideas and points of view.

For more information, please visit queenswood.org/sixth-form-academicscholarship-offer or scan the QR code in the advertisement opposite.

Jo Cameron, Principal, Queenswood School

“Queenswood’s Academic Scholars demonstrate insatiable intellectual curiosity, both in their particular fields of interest and in the wider world”

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EDUC ATION

ST COLUMBA’S COLLEGE

S

t Columba’s College is the only independent Catholic day school for ages 4 to 18 in the heart of St Albans.

You don’t have to be Catholic to join St Columba’s -- the school warmly welcomes pupils and families of all faiths and none.

Next year is going to be a really exciting one for St Columba’s as the school prepares to welcome girls for the first time.

The first group of “Pioneer Girls” are starting in Reception in January 2021, followed by girls into Year 1, Year 2 and Lower Sixth. There will then be a phased transition to full co-education throughout the school.

This follows an unprecedented year full of new challenges. As 2020 draws to a close, St Columba’s Headmaster, Mr David Buxton has been reflecting on the response from the school and its close-knit community of families, staff and alumni.

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During the first lockdown period, St Columba’s College ran a successful remote learning programme. “As a result of our home learning programme, which centred around real-time teaching, students maintained very good academic progress,” says Mr Buxton.

“We also managed to sustain much of our wider school community life, such as virtual sport, music and assemblies which were so important in helping to support student health and well-being through a very difficult time. Our teachers did a superb job.”

Parents also praised the school for the exceptional remote learning programme: “A big thank you for the excellent pastoral care for both our boys. The teaching is excellent.”

“Thank you for the brilliant job you are doing. It must be extremely difficult. Our son is very happy and therefore so are we.”

Since the school fully reopened in September, the College has implemented a deep cleaning regime, created designated areas for year group bubbles and made face coverings in communal areas mandatory for staff and pupils aged 11 and over.

This has ensured that pupils’ safety and wellbeing remains the main priority alongside their academic progress.

THE DETAILS You can find out more about the St Columba’s College remote learning programme here: stcolumbascollege. org/about-us/remote-learning

FASHION, HEALTH

& BEAUTY – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – I M A G E : C OT TO N M I L L AT S O P W E L L H O U S E

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY ROYAL BLUE A WELSH WINTER The Heavyweight multi yarn acrylic 2 tone cable knit melange bobble hat with a Suprafleece™ has a thermal band for extra snugness and cosy hand-knitted feel. The sweatshirt uses a combination of coloured yarn to produce a striking marl effect with solid contrast details at cuffs and collar & using a blend of regenerated pre-consumer cotton waste, its great for the environment. Each piece is finished by hand in North Wales using carefully curated materials. andsotoshop.com

WORLD OF COLOUR We love the vibe of these socks. The prints are fab, as is the quality. Dress up your ankles with these socks, they look great poking out the bottom of jeans or more formalwear. Could these be the perfect Christmas stocking filler? thecornrow.com

STOWAWAY This Stash+Stow Plus+ backpack is a multifunctional statement bag that can be used as a gym, yoga, laptop, travel or stylish work bag. The bag is designed to make your day and life a little easier. There are easily accessible compartments, pockets and mobile phone charging port for all your daily needs. stashandstow.com 72 DECEMBER 2020

Inspired by the engagement ring given to Catherine Middleton

by Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, this necklace is sure to delight. The original ring was made by the jewellers Garrard, and consisted of 14 diamonds surrounding a 12-carat oval blue Ceylon sapphire set in 18-carat white gold. The ring had originally belonged to William’s mother Princess Diana. shop.westminster-abbey.org

WE LOVE These lovely contemporary elegant pearl & CZ hook earring & matching pendant set. lido-collection.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Do you have the ZOOM DOUBLE CHIN?

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ou log onto Zoom, ready for your meeting, there are important matters to discuss! But once you turn your camera on, you find it hard to focus.

Staring at the screen, all you can see is… Your chin. Or rather, both of them…The truth is, your double chin has been bothering you for years.

You’ve noticed it in pictures before. So when you’re asked to pose for shots, you do the “Turtle stretch” – pushing your chin as far forward as possible, so that your double chin becomes less noticeable. But it’s difficult to carry out an entire Zoom conversation doing the “Turtle stretch”…

And even when you adjust the angle of your computer, you can still see it… staring back at you… making you look so much older and heavier than you really are. In fact, you’ve started to dread video calls, for this very reason.

If any of that resonates, you’re not alone.

Since April, we’ve seen a spike in people contacting us because they don’t like the way their jawline looks on video calls – and have decided to do something about it.

(In fact, I was recently even interviewed about this by The Daily Telegraph) The problem with double chins is that they are quite hard to get rid of alone. They’re mostly 74 DECEMBER 2020

caused by genetics and can be quite prominent even in people who are otherwise slim – double chins often have little to do with health or weight.

That’s why losing weight is not always the answer.

And even when you do lose weight, a double chin often doesn’t go… It can be the very definition of “stubborn fat”. The bottom line is that most people require a bit of help getting rid of their double chin, and smoothing out their jawline again so that it looks much sleeker and slimmer.

Luckily, that’s something we can help you with.

VASER LIPO This is a gentle form of liposuction, where we remove up to 90% of the fat. This is the most you can remove safely, and is 100% reliable – because we are physically removing the fat and then sculpt you a new chin, you get optimum result every time.

The procedure takes just 30 minutes under local anaesthetic, so you don’t feel a thing and you will be able go home after about an hour.

I do recommend you taking around 3 days off to recover, and be vigilant about aftercare, including wearing a chin support for 72 hours straight afterwards, and for 12 hours a day for three weeks after that.

BEFORE VASER

AFTER VASER

BEFORE VASER

“We’ve been seeing an uptick in people getting procedures with dramatic results” As it happens, right now as we’re emerging from lockdown is the perfect time for this because most people are working from home and minimising social interactions anyway!

No one has to see you and you have the perfect opportunity to recover in peace and quiet.

That’s why we’ve been seeing an uptick in people getting procedures with dramatic results like VASER which they’ve been dreaming about for a while, but could never find the time for before….

COOLSCULPTING If that still doesn’t appeal and you’d like an option which is completely non-invasive, we can use CoolSculpting to get rid of your double-chin with our Coolsculpt specialist who has over 5 years’ experience. This involves freezing the fat cells, which effectively kills them off. This FDAapproved treatment is easy (it takes about 30-90 mins to treat the chin) and there’s no needles or surgery involved. (It’s a bit cold… That’s about the worst you can say!)

It’s still extremely effective - it gets rid of 2035% of the fat under the chin, giving you lovely results like these: Unlike VASER, where results are apparent immediately, these results take around 2-3 months to become fully apparent…But there is no recovery period at all for CoolSculpting, so you can have your procedure and then get right back to your Zoom calls…And in both cases, the more defined shape is permanent.

AFTER VASER

personal preference! If you have a bigger double chin or you want a definitive treatment, then VASER maybe for you. Or maybe you can’t face needles/surgery in which case Coolsculpting is the way forward.

So if you have a double chin you’d love to get rid of, let’s talk through your options.

Visit riverbanksclinic.co.uk/book and book a free online consultation with me. We’ll discuss the kind of results you want to achieve, what kind of procedure you incline to, your budget and lifestyle considerations… …And help you come to a well-informed decision.

Before you know it, you’ll be able to jump on those Zoom calls without giving your double chin a second thought…

“If that still doesn’t appeal and you’d like an option which is completely noninvasive, we can use CoolSculpting to get rid of your double-chin with our Coolsculpt specialist who has over 5 years’ experience”

Dr Ravi Jain

BEFORE COOLSCULPTING

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

SO WHICH WILL YOU CHOOSE? They’re both great – it’s just a matter of your

AFTER COOLSCULPTING

DECEMBER 2020 75

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Experience the very best in spa from around the world at Cottonmill

S

ituated in St Albans, just 20-minutes from Kings Cross but a world away – Cottonmill Spa features a selection of the world’s best spa experiences and treatments direct from Japan, Sri Lanka, California and more. To provide guests with the ultimate global spa experience all under one roof, the team behind Cottonmill Spa at Sopwell House travelled the world to research, sample and import the experiences to the UK. From Alpine infinity pools and German thermal baths, to Himalayan wellness retreats and Moroccan riads to Japanese sleep pods and cliff top Californian spas, Cottonmill has taken inspiration from around the world to create a world class facility combining relaxation, connection with nature and restoration of the senses.

CALIFORNIA SOUL: WHISPER ROOM & GARDEN ROOM With timber lined ceilings, double sided fireplaces and dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows providing plenty of connection to the surrounding landscape, the Whisper and Garden Rooms were heavily inspired by trips to cliff top spas in California. The warm materials and glossy finishes hint at an element of retro Alpine ski lodge, with the wicker swinging seats adding a more playful vibe often found on the Greek islands.

SLIDE INTO A JAPANESE SLEEPING POD: DEEP RELAXATION ROOM Inspired by the high-tech world of Japanese Sleep Pods – originally created for people to power nap the Deep Relaxation Room is a darkened, sensuous space with a cocoon like feel. The six warm, softlyvibrating Four Senses loungers change colour and play relaxing music, intending to soothe the body and stimulate meridian lines that carry life energy throughout.

76 DECEMBER 2020

SRI LANKAN & BALINESE BLISS: SPA GARDEN Designed by award-winning garden designer Ann-Marie Powell, the Spa Garden aspires to be a haven, taking guests away from the everyday.

Materials were chosen to echo the feel of boutique luxury found in destinations such as Bali and Sri Lanka, with plants overhead, sumptuous cabanas and daybeds, hot tubs and a comfortable sofa by a warming fire pit. Water features line the walkway and the indoor / outdoor hydrotherapy pool aims to soothe the human psyche with cooling tranquil properties.

Spa days at The Club at Cottonmill start from £140 per person with ‘The Club Day’ package and includes use of all The Club at Cottonmill facilities and lunch in The Pantry. Spa breaks start from £289 per person with the ‘Midweek Club Countryside Classic’.

For more information or to book, please visit sopwellhouse.co.uk

“Designed by awardwinning garden designer Ann-Marie Powell, the Spa Garden aspires to be a haven, taking guests away from the everyday”

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

6 OF THE BEST BEAUTY BAUBLES Deck your tree out with these chic product-filled ornaments. By Katie Wright

W

hy settle for regular old Christmas tree decoration when you can adorn your Norwegian spruce with beauty baubles?

Filled with mini make-up, skincare and bathtime treats, these swinging sensations will delight your guests on Christmas Day – if you can bear to part with them.

Here are six of the most desirable beauty baubles…

1. Burt’s Bees A Bit of Burt’s Bees 2 Piece Moisturising Gift Set, £6.99, Amazon Who doesn’t love a Burt’s Bees lip balm? In this festive red bauble there’s a pomegranate scented balm and a little pot of lemon cuticle cream, ideal for keeping lips and hands hydrated in winter.

2. Hora Skincare Beauty Bauble Gift Set, £32.50, The Chillery From cult CBD brand Hora, this luxury bundle brings together the skin-boosting Overnight Exfoliating Mask and soothing CBD Super Serum.

3. L’Occitane Verbena My Fresh Essentials Star Gift Set, £10.80, Escentual Housed in a sweet star-shaped tin are a trio of soap, hand cream and body lotion, all fragranced with L’Occitane’s zesty verbena scent.

4. Marks and Spencer Apothecary Calm Bauble Hanging Gift Set, £6 Inside the minimalist metal baubles you’ll find a travel-sized body wash and hand cream from Apothecary’s Calm range, scented with lavender, orange, sage and cedarwood.

5. Tan-Luxe The Glow Bauble, £15, Space NK One for the tan-aholics, this pretty pink bauble contains a mini version of Tan-Luxe’s Super Glow serum, which moisturises while delivering a subtle hint of bronze.

6. The White Company Seychelles Shower Gel Bauble, £10 Twist open the top of this silver-capped bauble to release the delightful aroma of a tropical holiday. The Seychelles shower gel is scented with bergamot, jasmine, coconut and vanilla.

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2 5

A Hidden Gem of Beauty Beauty specialist Beauty By Rosie is back bigger and better than ever with 25 new colours and a freshly new refurbished cabin! Back open now for all your beauty needs, lashes, gel nails - specialising in biosculpture which is the leading gel system, LVL lashes, tinting, waxing, spray tanning, luxury manicures and pedicures.

NOW OPEN!

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

FIT LIVING

ONLINE WORKOUTS | PERSONAL TRAINING | NUTRITION & MINDSET COACHING Hey, I’m Lashara and I’m a strength and mindset coach on a mission to help people create a strong body and mind without the BS.

T

he Fit Living Method will give you the tools to create a lifestyle that is about moving to feel good, eating to fuel your goals and crafting a strong body and mind you love!

I offer online workout classes, personal training, nutrition and mindset coaching, plus yoga classes!

My online workout classes are the most affordable starting point with your first class FREE and drop in for £8. The membership is £34.99 a month for UNLIMITED live workout classes and yoga, and access to the on-demand library, plus access to the closed Facebook group with our amazing group of members!

“I offer online workout classes, personal training, nutrition and mindset coaching, plus yoga classes!”

Unlimited Fit Living Membership £34.99 pm includes: • 5 Live workouts a week • Yoga classes • On demand library • Private Facebook group

lashara.com hello@lasharafitliving.com 07901 181548 @lasharawood 80 DECEMBER 2020

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Rowan At Osprey Home

O

SPREY LONDON is the principal brand name of GRAEME ELLISDON Ltd, the independently owned luxury leather, lifestyle and retail company.

Our story begins in 1980 with a belt, handcut and handstitched in a hayloft in Hertfordshire that the then 25 year old Graeme Ellisdon had rented for just £2 a week. Having invested £500 of his own money into launching his fledgling brand, OSPREY LONDON quickly became all the rage with the UK’s leading retailers and both rock and real royalty snapping up his beautiful handcrafted leather belts.

Foreseeing that fashion’s focus was sure to move away from the waist, Graeme used his love of leather and traditional skills to create the first of many gorgeous and practical bags and small leather goods for men and women, earning OSPREY LONDON a worldwide reputation as an affordable luxury leather brand with a spirited take on British style.

ONLINE Having always envisaged OSPREY LONDON as a lifestyle brand, today’s online collection not only continues to grow with seasonal new injections of leather bags and accessories, but also to diversify with the successful introduction scarves, silk ties, clothing, a home fragrance range, precious jewellery, gifting and sunglasses.

However, our online store is just the tip of the iceberg and to experience all that the brand has to offer, pay a visit to one of our stores.

Today, OSPREY LONDON products are made by highly skilled craftsmen in the UK, Italy, Spain, Portugal and India, working to Graeme & Alex Ellisdon’s design briefs. No matter where each product is made, it then undergoes rigorous quality control checks at the company’s UK headquarters to ensure it is worthy of the OSPREY LONDON name.

LIFESTYLE STORE With an innovative approach to retail, in 2002 the company opened OSPREY HOME, the exciting contemporary lifestyle store in a picturesque rural location outside St Albans. Today the location houses one of the brand’s sixteen outlet stores while OSPREY HOME showcases not only branded leather accessories, clothing and gifting but also furniture, lighting, art and sculpture. These are all personally sourced by Graeme and Alex on their travels from companies which share the same values, using traditional techniques and natural materials to create special products that stand out from the crowd. All of this can be enjoyed over drinks or lunch in the brand’s popular courtyard Saddlery Café, which had a fabulous Wwoo outdoor kitchen installed in summer 2017. rowanatospreyhome.co.uk

84 DECEMBER 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

How to wear the metallic catwalk trend Miss Selfridge Gold Metallic Drape Detail Mini Dress, £29.99; Aaliyah Shoulder Bag, £18; Black Spirit Heels, £20.30 (were £29), available from Miss Selfridge

It’s time to embrace glittering gold festive fashion, says Katie Wright.

bit more subdued.

Colour-wise, designers favoured darker antique hues or cool champagne tones, rather than warm gold, and there was a mixture of flowing frocks and sexy cocktail dresses.

Not keen on a dazzling dress? Try metallic colour blocking, pairing a gold going-out top with a midi skirt, or a sequined skirt with a fine knit.

As for accessories, don’t be afraid to double up, teaming a glittery dress with sparkly shoes, for instance.

This festive season, it’s all about feel-good fashion. Here’s our pick of some of the most gorgeous gold pieces…

JOE BROWNS EXCHANGING GLANCES NECKLACE, £20, FROM JOE BROWNS.

WALLIS CHAMPAGNE SEQUIN SHIFT DRESS, £24 FROM WALLIS

NEXT OCHRE PAISLEY MESH SEQUIN DRESS, £90, FROM NEXT

DUNE BRILLIANTE GOLD CRYSTAL EMBELLISHED COURT SHOES, £114, FROM DUNE

W

hen models took to the runway at the autumn/winter shows many months ago, no one could have predicted how different the festive season would look this year.

At the time, the shimmering golden gowns sashaying down the catwalk looked perfect for the kind of celebrations we’d usually have lined up for December.

Now, it looks like party season won’t be going off with quite such a bang, but that’s no reason not to embrace the sparkling trend for the festive period.

Whatever you’re doing on Christmas Day, a molten metallic dress is a real mood-booster, and there’s now a glut of golden frocks and accessories to choose from on the high street.

NEXT HIGH NECK TOP, £32; BLACK JEWEL WAIST The key to this trend? Make it your BELT, £30; BLACK PLEATED SEQUIN MIDI SKIRT, £58, own. On the catwalks, we saw brilliant AVAILABLE FROM NEXT brocade at Celine and Emilia Wickstead, while there was a sea of sequins at Ashish and Paco Rabanne, so it’s up to you whether you want to go for a shimmery showstopper or something a 86 DECEMBER 2020

DEICHMANN GOLD GLITTER BOX CLUTCH BAG, £14.99, FROM NEXT

MISS SELFRIDGE GOLD SALSA HEELED SANDALS, £14.50 FROM MISS SELFRIDGE Models on the catwalk for the Ashish show at London Fashion Week February 2020 show

HOME &

PROPERTY SPONSORED BY

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

– Keep it local for everything house and home – I M A G E : T H E U LT I M AT E W O R K F R O M H O M E S O L U T I O N

H OME & PROPERTY

[NEWS]

INTERIORS KEEPING IT SIMPLE These lights will fit perfectly with simplified art with minimal detail. Pair with neutral colours from Victorian homes to modern apartments, this Purist trend is very versatile and timeless – its minimal design brings a sense of calmness. besselink.com

NEW IN TOWN

FESTIVE FRAMES Get in the holiday spirit with our new art prints for the festivities ahead! For the first time ever we’re launching a collection of art prints designed especially for the holiday season.

It has been really fun creating a new kind of holiday decoration for this cosy time of year, says Executive Creative Director Annica Wallin. The collection consists of 20 art prints in different styles ranging from photo art to festive quotes and illustrations. desenio.com

HYGGE MEETS WABI SABI Achieve simplicity and functionality without compromising on comfort and cosiness with this fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian aesthetic.

Following the minimalist design principle where simplicity is the centre, create a warm, cosy and more natural room by playing with textures, natural elements and designs. coffeeandcloth.co.uk

SERVING UP STYLE Del Mar porcelain tableware sets the tone for renewed energy in 2021 in ranges of gorgeous cool grey hues and blue ocean tones with hints of green.

This stunning coupe range has elegant lines and features a reactive glaze, so each piece is beautifully individual with variances in shade from piece to piece, reflecting the changing colours of nature. procook.co.uk

92 DECEMBER 2020

The Cornrow, a new home and lifestyle online store, has launched! Providing a unique and wide-ranging selection of products which all offer a new aesthetic focused on diversity, for everyone to enjoy! Set up by two Black British sisters, whose dream was to create a store which celebrates their heritage and lifestyle, the company mantra is “Would Wakanda Westfield stock it?!”. thecornrow.com

H OME & PROPERTY

Black & White Botanicals with Susannah Weiland Collection

S

usannah Weiland Collections produces handcrafted designs for luxury interiors.

Susannah is a hand embroidery artist and a keen wild life photographer. She studied Graphic Design at university and has spent 20 years working in the fashion industry as a freelance textile print designer. Keen to learn new skills and try different creative mediums she had taken many evening and weekend courses in everything from oil painting and life drawing to perspex jewellery making and tapestry. Her grandmother first introduced her to hand embroidery as a child, and after taking a short course years later she was hooked!

After a lot of experimenting she developed her signature style combining her favourite mediums: tonal pencil drawing with delicate hand embroidery and beading. Susannah’s work is always influenced

94 DECEMBER 2020

by the wildlife in different locations, her first range “The Botanical Collection” was inspired by Kew Gardens.

Susannah pencil draws onto paper. These designs are printed onto fabric, and she hand embroiders and beads bright highlights of colour into them to create unique pieces of art and decorative cushions. Her designs are also printed onto wallpaper, furnishing fabric and plates.

Susannah draws and embroiders all her work in her studio in Richmond upon Thames. Her cushions and chairs are made to order in London and all printing is carried out in the UK. Available at charltonisland.com with Free UK Delivery.

CALL FREE: 0808 301 9552

homecountiesloftladders.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

Swapping For A Staycation?

W

ith the majority of us being locked down in our homes & gardens, so many people have swapped the sunshine & sand for home garden renovations & spruce ups!

At Elliott of London our craftsmen have been busy! Tucked away in our Countryside Studio, working hard on new sculptures, commission, methods & designs to suit every budget & space.

With Home & Garden sculptures becoming the “in thing” the options we can provide clients with are almost limitless!

From the delicate & simplistic details of our Rustic Organic Flow Sphere to every muscle movement on our NEW life size “Grand Prix” Jumping Horse Sculpture, we leave no stone unturned for our precision & dedication to each piece we create.

Capturing the life & movement of the animal sculptures, the flow & energy of the contemporary & abstract sculptures - there really is something for everyone!

Cleverly placing our illumination kits among our sculptures, enables us to give that little extra to every client’s outdoor space – creating that perfect ambiance that can then be enjoyed day or night, come summer or winter.

It is not all out the outdoors here though, we also create interior pieces of all sizes. Our sublime Copper Roses or our modern Log Holders are suitable for any mantle piece or fireplace, adding to layouts of your homes.

96 DECEMBER 2020

Our smaller interior items are also all hand crafted & are available for online purchasing. We also welcome commissions - big or small.

“When producing our products, we focus on the true quality of finish, and our attention to detail is key in all our products and services.” Elliott of London’s Sculptor, Charles Elliott All commissions are welcome. Please feel free to contact us. Viewing by appointment only. elliottoflondon.co.uk info@elliottoflondon.co.uk

“When producing our products, we focus on the true quality of finish, and our attention to detail is key in all our products and services”

ELLIOTT OF LONDON INVITES YOU TO.....

The Christmas Gift Market RUSTIC GARDEN ART SHOP S&C HOME DECOR GIFT SHOP POLLY & PETAL FLORIST AND MORE

18TH,19TH & 20TH DEC 10AM – 4PM

Elliott Of London, Bluebell Farm Shootersway, Berkhamsted Herts HP4 3GQ

H HOME OME & PROPERTY

The Ultimate Work from Home Solution W

orking from home was not so long ago considered a perk of the job, however, the muchlonged-for 30-second commute, for many of us, has finally become a realisation.

Prior to the global pandemic, we would have spent 492 days of our lives commuting to and from work and inevitably, Covid-19 has brought about a catalyst of change. Businesses are now seeing the benefits of reducing costs by giving up office spaces, and with commuting now significantly reduced, one of the biggest winners out of this situation is the environment.

With this in mind, there’s no doubt that the “new normal” of home working is, quite clearly, here to stay.

The general consensus is that working from home is wholly positive and can provide a better work-life balance. Whilst this is true, there is evidence to suggest that this can be quite the opposite, with staff working later than usual as they battle to “switch-off ” when their working day is over.

So, what’s the solution?

Garden Offices Green Retreats have long been advocates for working from home, creating stunning garden offices for customers who needed extra space to work in, at home, away from the house. They provide the ultimate work from home space that 98 DECEMBER 2020

gives clients the best of both worlds, an office to work in without the distractions of home life and when it’s time to finish, you can walk away and lock up and resist the urge to open the laptop.

Garden offices from Green Retreats provide space to work in all year round, and are available in hundreds of style and size configurations to suit almost any garden space and budget. Sizes start at just 4m² and go up in half-metre increments all the way to 30m² with width and depth choices to suit the client’s use.

“There’s no doubt that the “new normal” of home working is, quite clearly, here to stay”

Wishing all our customers past and present a Merry Christmas

H OME & PROPERTY

customers to look at, Green Retreats have become the go-to provider for the turn-key solution to garden offices. With modern showrooms in Buckinghamshire and Twickenham, unparalleled customer service, a 5* Trustpilot rating and an enviable environmental policy, Green Retreats are the clear choice when choosing a garden office provider in 2021.

Key Facts and Prices Prices start at £14,745, which includes all of the essentials; a choice of doors, a window, internal wiring, flooring choices, plus much more. Prices also include the concrete pile base, full installation and VAT. • Designed and built in the UK • 10-year guarantee • Eco-friendly • Insulated, weatherproofed and heated for year-round-use • Planning permission rarely required greenretreats.co.uk The Undeniable Data There is no doubt that garden rooms, offices and studios, that were once in an emerging market, have now become the solution to working from home for those who need dedicated space from which to do so. No matter how 2021 pans out, it seems as though garden offices are set to be an ever-popular addition to people’s homes for years to come.

What are the Rules?

Garden rooms generally do not require planning permission because they fall within permitted development rights. Garden rooms are classed as ‘outbuildings’ and as such can be built without permission as long as customers comply with permitted development guidelines.

Choosing a Garden Office Company Whilst there are plenty of options out there for 100 DECEMBER 2020

Bespoke luxury spaces tailored just for you nordikka.co Nordikka Interiors, Blinding Bifolds Showroom, The Dutch Nursery, The Great North Rd, Brookmans Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 6ND E: info@nordikka.co

M : 07738469691

H OME & PROPERTY

Wellness with Origin Ending the year in a positive way and looking ahead to 2021

“Health is a state of body, wellness is a state of mind”

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ellness and swimming are often mentioned together, but what does wellness mean? Wellness is the act of practicing healthy habits on a daily basis to achieve better physical and mental health, it ensures that instead of just surviving, you’re thriving. Swimming is an amazing form of exercise and self care that should become a healthy habit more people pick up, it’s great for your mental health and is able to improve quality of sleep and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. At Origin we believe owning a pool is about more than the pool itself, by adding a spa, sauna or yoga room your swimming pool and pool house could be a centre of wellness.

If you’re looking to increase family time, your pool house could become a new social hub for everyone to enjoy by adding a gym, lounge area or 102 DECEMBER 2020

even a bar. Whilst jumping in can seem daunting, making the decision can bring measurable benefits.

A new pool from Origin provides new ways of having fun, whether that’s spending precious time together as a family or making the idea of a staycation more appealing.

Swimming remains one of the most popular activities across the country, with its physical and mental health benefits exceeding expectation.

The movement of water over your body creates a massaging sensation which encourages you to relax, just being in water increases blood flow to the brain, boosting your brain health, releasing endorphins and increasing your overall mood. In fact, a SwimEngland study found that those who swim regularly felt on average 12 years younger than those that don’t.

If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of the pool or simply want to lower running costs, eco models are available. The ‘EcoSwim’ range incorporates the very latest building materials for energy efficiency and provides you with a host of options to lessen your carbon

footprint. There are plenty of small changes you can make that can have a big impact, many of them saving you money in the future. Whether you want to add an insulated pool cover or air source heat pumps, Origin will work with you to create the pool you want. After all, wellness is important for our planet too.

But why Origin? It’s simple, we do it all.

Building swimming pools is a specialised field, it’s unlike any other building project and requires a holistic approach with all the key elements working together from the beginning. At Origin, we eliminate the need to employ separate companies by managing the whole process for

you, from concept to completion. Access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim and exercise everyday in the privacy and safety of your own home. We’ve been building award winning swimming pools for over 40 years and in that time we have successfully completed thousands of pools and pool houses to a wide range of specifications. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor, wellness or fun, Origin has experienced it all and are available to help you create your dream pool, managing every stage from start to finish, giving you the confidence and freedom to enjoy finally swimming in your own home.

So, end the year on a positive note and let Origin take you to wellness and beyond.

THE DETAILS Speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 453996 now or visit originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter. Our Instagram page @originpoolsuk is bursting with the latest pool inspiration.

Let Origin make 2021 your year.

DECEMBER 2020 103

H OME & PROPERTY

KATIE SHAPIRO INTERIORS She then went on to study Interior Design at KLC School of Design. She worked at Christie’s and in a top Mayfair gallery for many years, before embarking on her dream career of an Interior Designer. Her great passion for art shines through in all her designs. Katie offers an Art Advisory service along with her Interior Design.

WHAT THEY OFFER

K

atie Shapiro creates spaces that are inspiring, beautiful and unique.

Katie aims to bring flair to each project and her passion for beautiful furniture, lighting, art, materials and textures shines through in all of her designs. She has an inspired ability to ensure that her clients’ visions are turned into a reality.

Katie draws on her love of art, photography, modernist furniture, colour and antiques to create spaces that are truly individual.

Katie broadened her design vocabulary through a BA in Art History (1st Class Hons) at Birmingham University, going on to complete an MA at the Courtauld Institute of Art in Art History, specialising in the History of Fashion.

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Interior Design Katie Shapiro Interiors offers various design packages to suit your needs and requirements. She can offer a full design package from concept through to completion for large projects, but also other packages that are more suited to smaller projects. Katie would love to assist you in your design venture; nothing is too big or too small.

Art Advisory Katie’s academic background in Art History, along with her years having worked at Christie’s Auction House and a top Mayfair gallery has given her a huge understanding and appreciation of art and sculpture. She strongly believes that art is integral to interiors and is often the starting point to a scheme. Whether it is art advice or help in sourcing, Katie can assist you with your every need. katieshapirointeriors.co.uk katie@katieshapirointeriors.co.uk 07903 634866

“Katie can offer a full design package from concept through to completion for large projects, but also other packages that are more suited to smaller projects”

Creating interiors that are inspiring, beautiful and unique

WWW.KATIESHAPIROINTERIORS.CO.UK KATIE@KATIESHAPIROINTERIORS.CO.UK 07903 634866

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106 DECEMBER 2020

Misted up sealed units? discoloured door panels? original company no longer trading?

Let us Put it riGht!

15,000 local customers can’t be wrong!

WindoWs • doors • Conservatories FasCias Gutters • PorChes • CarPorts • over 40 years experience, an established family run business • discounts for pensioners and the retired • Friendly, no pressure, advice • no deposit - payment only on completion and satisfaction

BARRY BOLTON WINDOWS

01727 866678 01438 771736 www.barryboltonwindows.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

THE BENEFITS OF HIRING AN INTERIOR DESIGNER

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hanks to Pinterest, anyone can feel like they’re an interior designer. Turning to inspirational platforms for smallscale home improvement jobs is perfectly fine (and a lot of fun!), but you should really consider hiring an interior designer for any significant projects. Having that professional opinion can make all the difference, from redesigning one room to redoing your entire home.

Here are just five ways an interior designer can be an invaluable asset to your improvement projects.

“The training required to become an interior designer makes them an incredible resource when designing or refurbishing your home”

Reason #1: They’re professionals.

It seems like stating the obvious, but interior designers are professionals. To become an interior designer you not only need a university degree in an art or design-related field, but you need to have a thorough understanding of building requirements and practical problem-solving skills.

The training required to become an interior designer makes them an incredible resource when designing or refurbishing your home; they will be able to give you advice, support and recommendations with an expert eye.

(Just to clarify: An interior designer is not the same thing as an interior decorator. An interior decorator isn’t involved with building the layout of a space; they dress a space that already exists, focussing on blending colour palettes, fabrics, textures and other finishes to bring a room to life.)

Reason #2: They will take the stress off your shoulders.

‘It can get very overwhelming to a nonprofessional when faced with too many design options when redesigning a space,’ says Fishpools’ interior designer Kerry Laird. ‘There are endless possibilities and they all come in different styles and price ranges. As interior designers, we listen carefully to the brief you’d like to achieve in your home and with that, we create the perfect design to reflect your personal style whilst staying within budget and timeframes.’

What with full-time jobs, families to provide

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After waiting 3 months for their new windows to be installed Mr. & Mrs. Glancy are now delighted. Mr. Glancy explains “Kingsbourne Windows started the work in March but had to stop because of covid19, then the excellent fitters Nathan and Dan returned in June to complete the installation. We were so very happy that Kingsbourne Windows were covid19 aware on social distance and cleanliness that we would certainly recommend them to our family and friends.

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for and the limited free time a working adult gets, no one needs the added strain of trying to redo your home. That’s where an interior designer comes in: essentially, they take care of all the stressful planning, coordinating and managing so you can take a back seat and focus on your daily life.

Reason #3: They actually end up saving you money.

Rather than going through expensive design ‘trial and error’, hiring an interior designer will help you get it right the first time. They’ll know just what colour to paint that room, what size sofa will complement your sitting room and what kind of fabric will add just the right amount of texture, so you don’t have to waste time, money and resources on what could turn out to be a costly mistake.

Reason #3: They’ll help you get connected.

Interior designers regularly work with contractors, painters, architects, installers and other professionals, therefore they will be able to put you in contact with the best people for the job at hand. Interior designers also have access to tradeexclusive furnishings, fabrics and home accessories,

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allowing you a wider selection to choose from. Plus, should you ever need an improvement industry professional in the future, they’ll save you the headache of trying to find someone for yourself by recommending reliable people for the job.

Reason #5: They help you increase the value of your home, should you ever decide to sell.

Because an interior designer can help you get that sought-after ‘wow’ factor in your home, this could come in very useful, should you ever decide to sell and relocate. With an interior designer’s smart and functional solutions, this will add to the property’s appeal and could help to increase the overall value.

Plus, you’ll end up saving money, as you won’t have to spend as much doing the house up before you put it on the market.

So there you have it – five of many reasons to hire an interior designer before embarking on your next home improvement project.

Thinking of giving your home a makeover?

Get in touch with our Fishpools’ Interior Design Service – our inhouse designers Katie and Kerry will help you turn your vision into a reality. To see the full offerings of our bespoke service visit Fishpools.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

‘Chinese Feng Shui’ for the New Year

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otterell & Co. have gone back to their roots to over 65 years ago in lampshade manufacture.

We are now reinventing bespoke lighting by utilizing innovative techniques, new materials, in-house design and long-standing relationships. The result is exclusivity combined with endless variety, successfully tapping into the zeitgeist for all things bespoke.

If you are looking to add some Chinese Inspired Lighting and Home Decor in time to celebrate the Chinese New Year, here at Cotterell & Co we have some bespoke hand made products that will add those warm inviting touches to your home just in time.

One of our Interior Designers picked out a collection of products featuring Rustic Oranges, Reds, Florals and much more. The meaning on ‘Feng Shui’ actually comes from ancient Chinese beliefs, that the way your home or house is built or the way that you arrange objects affects your success, health and happiness. This term was the inspiration for our small collection.

Here we have added our Giraffe Lamp with an Orange Shade. This inspired us from history going as far back as 1414. A Giraffe - a unknown creature at the time in china- was presented to an Emperor who immediately associated it with the qilin, an auspicious mythical creature.

Next, we have our Moooi Menagerie of Extinct Animals Bespoke Shade. The print celebrates extinct animals. The creatures are nestled amongst the outsize foliage picked out in stunningly vibrant colours. Our inspiration for the next lamp was the Traditional Asian Rice Hat. Our bespoke tapered shade is shaped in a similar way.

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Far more at your fingertips…

Design your own bespoke lighting with Cotterell & Co. We use innovative materials and use of scale to create the perfect pieces. Bring your style and room to life with a shade what’s lined in a wallpaper of your choice and covered in an array of luxurious materials – even your own if you’ve got some to spare.

Play with colours, textures, finishes and metallics. Lights transform when lit and you can change the complete look & feel of your room.

Scale, choice and a huge range of fittings and fixtures is always a challenge for a small, family run business. What do you do? Play to your strengths, go the extra mile and innovate – use what you have. We create and design with our customers and interior design clients alike, lighting schemes can be daunting, especially when starting from scratch.

We offer a bespoke lighting specification service – answering all your lighting queries and we can also work off plan too.

Change doesn’t have to break the bank, a new shade can make all the difference - a little like throwing a new cushion on a sofa. Introducing new colours and textures – perhaps a little pattern can make a real change!

We offer a recovering service and using our many years in shade making we’re able to recover existing fittings in an array of materials to really switch things up and create something completely unique for the customer.

Designing our own light fittings means we can problem solve & innovate as we go. Life doesn’t have to be grey, Rocke – our in house design brand was born out of our customers’ desire for something very different from the ubiquitous cream lampshade. cotterellandco.com

“Play with colours, textures, finishes and metallics”

kitchens • bedrooms • appliances

BESPOKE INTERIORS SHOWROOMS: ST ALBANS | NORTH FINCHLEY Call us on 01727 896766 www.glotech.com/kitchens

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ART NOUVEAU INSPIRED WALLPAPERS

by Austrian artist, Nici Gabriel

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reators of made-to-measure wallpaper murals, Wallsauce.com is proud to announce its latest collection of Art Nouveau designs by Nici Gabriel.

Discovered in its competition to find the next ‘designer wallpaper collection’, Austrian-born Nici is a self-taught surface pattern designer who rediscovered her love for creativeness after having her children. Having endured a career as an IT project manager, Nici founded her art label after realising creativity was her passion.

Inspired by her childhood in Austria, Nici’s collection for Wallsauce.com captures some of the finer details of the Austrian countryside translated into her love of the Art Nouveau period. She says: “Having lived in Austria for many years, it was a natural choice for me to focus on Art Nouveau.

One of my wallpaper designs is a geometric, floral pattern with bows and loops on some marigolds and a reflected magic flower. The other is inspired by some clovers and mallows in my natural garden.

Scrolls and bows give it the necessary elegant feeling of Art Nouveau.”

“Scrolls and bows give it the necessary elegant feeling of Art Nouveau” Beautifully decorated in mellow blues, ochre and neutral tones, Wallsauce.com saw a huge gap in their market for Nici’s Art Nouveau designs.

With all things vintage also being predicted as a huge interior trend in 2021, these modern 20th century-inspired designs can also offer a unique and somewhat colourful fulfilment for the trend.

Head to wallsauce.com to view Nici Gabriel’s 7-piece wallpaper collection.

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The drivewayS and paTio company www.hertfordshiredriveways.com

Come home to quality...

driveway inSTallaTion

Thinking about a new driveway, modernising or improving your front of house? Our experienced team can provide you with a complete service from the initial design through to finished article.

Driveway anD patio Design anD installation!

Free surveys anD quotations!

The block paving, reSign bound and naTural STone SpecialiST Having over 25 years of experience within our home improvement sector, we have built an unrivalled reputation for the quality of our installations and the care and the service provided to our customers.

As well as experienced and professional driveway and patio installers, we also work alongside leading governing bodies within our industry. Being approved installers of Marshalls, Bradstone and Brett landscaping, we are able to give all our customers the peace of mind that carrying these accreditation’s deliver. Our approved status allows us to proudly and confidently service Hertfordshire, Bedfordshire and North London with decades of design ideas. We can offer a vast range of product choices and solutions to all size and manner of installation requirements.

The approved specialist

paTio and garden ServiceS

Being more than just professional hard landscapers, we provide a complete service that offers garden and patio design. With a free consultation backed by skilled craftsman, we can create the outdoor space that you have always dreamed of.

oTher ServiceS

We can also add the finishing touches to your new garden or driveway project, including services such as raised kerbing, steps, sleeper walls, Landscaping for natural or artificial lawns, and also a range of quality fencing products, to name but a few.

Call today without obligation to arrange a free survey and written quotation

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

H OME & PROPERTY

Get In Bed With Great British Design With more time at home becoming the norm, interiors across the UK are getting more than their fair share of attention and none more so than the bedroom.

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n recent years, the bedroom has gained popularity as the place to retreat, relax and escape from the rat race. And, these days, we need that more than ever.

If a change would help you to rest better, then a luxurious, new upholstered bed has to be this years’ remedy for a boring bedroom … The feature bed is back!

What’s more, the current economic situation has been challenging manufacturers and creative minds to work together and breathe new life into our interiors, promoting a spirit of teamwork and great British pluck. Exciting collaborations between innovative designers and makers are, currently serving up the best of British design in the face of uncertainty.

One notable recent creative partnership is that of The Headboard Workshop with fabric designer, Charlotte Gaisford. The power pair set about designing the new Puffin Bed over the summer, exchanging ideas, sketches and designs. The outcome? A gloriously cheerful upholstered bed in a beautiful colour palette with feminine curves and modern lines.

“The bed really has become the place in the

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bedroom to stamp your style” says Laura KelwayBamber, creative director at The Headboard Workshop. “There are so many amazing materials on the market now that the sky is the limit. We make more than 18 styles of bed in over 150 plain fabrics or people can send us their own … which is how our relationship with Charlotte Gaisford first came to our attention”.

Laura adds that with the trend for upholstered beds and headboards on the climb in recent years, they have received so many beautiful fabrics from Charlotte Gaisford’s stunning collections for upholstery, that it was high time the two of them got together to do something spectacular.

The result of which is the new Puffin Bed in Sharanshar Green.

Piped in a lively co-ordinating coral colour, the Sharanshar Green pattern is eye catching and pretty, making an exceptionally beautiful bed, its beauty, only outshined by its elevated level of comfort when paired with the Sark Mattress.

We can’t wait to see what else this design duo come up with, but for now, were off to discover the Puffin Bed at theheadboardworkshop.co.uk

“One notable recent creative partnership is that of The Headboard Workshop with fabric designer, Charlotte Gaisford”

H OME & PROPERTY

Independent Living in St Albans

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ou may be thinking of moving home because of life changes or to downsize. The expense of an older property or simply freeing up equity of your existing home may be pushing you to move on. In all these cases Eywood House, might be right for you. This development of modern independent living apartments, owned by bpha housing association, is close to St Albans City centre.

A lovely location Situated in the St Julians area of St Albans, the new apartments are surrounded by the residential streets. A bus service to the city centre stops outside Eywood House, providing access to local facilities.

Wellbeing in a retirement community bpha make well-being a primary focus. Founded in 1990, bpha has extensive experience in running retirement developments. It prides itself on providing independent living with a strong sense of community and an improved quality of life for all residents. They bring people together and run and support a wide range of community activities.

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Flexibility with personal care Residents can access care, should they need it, through Abbots Care, the leading home care provider in the South East.

How much does it cost?

Well not as much as you might think. With the option of shared ownership, buyers can acquire properties at more affordable rates than they could otherwise.

Understanding how shared ownership works By opting for shared ownership, prospective residents can purchase a quality apartment at less than the market value. This is possible thanks to bpha retaining part ownership. “This is a great way to free up capital to make life easier or to take up the opportunities in life that wouldn’t otherwise be available,” say bpha.

Apartments at Eywood House are ready to move into and are valued from £206,250 for a 75 per cent share, with the remaining share owned by bpha. A monthly service charge also applies and you will need to factor in any care costs.

Apartments are also available to rent.

Eywood House offers a range of amenities and facilities on site including a communal garden and terrace which will provide an opportunity for staff and residents to meet, dine outdoors and participate in external group activities. Residents can enjoy their privacy and independence, with the reassurance of care and support when necessary.

THE DETAILS For more information visit eywoodhouse.co.uk Or contact Janet Bennett on sales@domovohomes.co.uk or 01727 617142 for sales or 0330 100 0272 for rentals

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H OME & PROPERTY

TYE ARCHITECTS : Case study

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ettled in the open countryside in Buckinghamshire this house is nestled in a secluded rural location, reflecting its surroundings of mature woodland. The setting and elegant simplicity were paramount to the design of this house.

The brief was to provide a dwelling which responds to its context in materiality. A simple palette of carefully selected materials includes the use of stone from the earth on the lower level and timber on the floating box of the upper level, enhanced by a green tinted series of panels to provide transparency and reflect the surrounding plot-scape.

With clean geometric lines, the floating first floor cantilevers and balances on the ground floor, providing long reaching views from the master bedroom and several short distance views of the plot from the other bedrooms. This architectural element pulls you into the site and allows you to marvel at its geometry and weightlessness.

The lower floor is grounded by the strong stone element; the roofing detail of the first floor floats, gliding with the frameless glazing.

Approaching the house, the glass enhances the large open spaces. The open plan ground floor connects from the front entrance area through to the rear garden and a horizontal expanse of glazing connects the rear living spaces to the garden-scape to the rear.

Vertical electronically controlled louvres to the windows provide solar shading and privacy shading

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to the bedrooms. Wooden sliding door panels, some recessed and hidden in the walls allow for areas to be discretely closed off. The house is fully equipped with a home cinema room and an outdoor amphitheatre. A sunroom in the garden provides an area for outdoor living where you can sit outside in a sheltered area at different times of the day and enjoy the views of the house and the landscaped garden.

This project is energy efficient and environmentally friendly with ground source heat pumps providing the heating and hot water. To further reduce the carbon footprint, the house is also equipped with solar panels and low energy lighting.

This dwelling was designed to create an elegant, contemporary family home with an open plan layout that is an environmentally sustainable, contextually relevant and timeless concept. tyearchitects.com

“This architectural element pulls you into the site and allows you to marvel at its geometry and weightlessness�

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AWARD WINNING HANSTEAD HOUSE,

SMUG OAK LANE, BRICKET WOOD, AL2 Award Winning Hanstead House in Bricket Wood is already 50% reserved.

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eading luxury developer Griggs Homes recently launched the stunning show apartment at Hanstead House located in Bricket Wood, Hertfordshire. This award-winning collection of just 11 elegant twobedroom apartments is situated within a historic house which is set within 5.8 acres of private communal gardens.

“Hanstead House is reached via a tree-lined avenue within the beautiful Hanstead Park which has its own lake and parkland” Hanstead House sits within the lush 55 acres of Hanstead Park and was originally built in the 1920s for Sir David Yule, one of the wealthiest men of his time. Latterly it became a training centre for HSBC, and more recently was purchased by luxury house builder Griggs Homes who have restored the magnificent original house to its former glory.

The development represents a unique opportunity to live in a historic country house with all its character and charm but with the benefits of the very best of luxury 21st century living.

Each home is complete with an extremely high level of specification with individually designed kitchens featuring integrated Miele appliances, bespoke fitted wardrobes in all bedrooms, underfloor heating throughout, Control4 home automation and private terraces which overlook 122 DECEMBER 2020

the mature landscaped parklands, formal gardens and sunken garden.

Hanstead House is reached via a tree-lined avenue within the beautiful Hanstead Park which has its own lake and parkland. The secure gated entrance leads to the grand neoclassical house with its imposing entrance hall and grand staircase.

The development is perfectly situated in Bricket Wood, an idyllic Hertfordshire village with a vibrant community feel. Residents of the village benefit from a host of amenities including butchers, greengrocers, a pharmacy and dental surgery as well as a church and community centre.

Hanstead House is ideal for those who require convenient transport links as its location offers easy access to St Albans, Radlett, Watford and London as well as the M25 and M1 which are located close by. Bricket Wood station is within walking distance, with a journey to London Euston taking circa 35 minutes.

The show apartment is open every Thursday to Monday between 10am to 5pm. Book your appointment today to avoid missing out on these stunning apartments.

THE DETAILS Prices from: £775,000 to £1,350,000 griggshomes.co.uk/ hanstead-house Preston Bennett in association with Hamptons International; 0208 954 8626; Lumley Estates 01923 853366

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Couple find dream family home and the ideal work/life balance at

TRENT PARK, ENFIELD

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fter five years of wanting to renovate their existing threebedroom bungalow into their dream home, Tao Liu (37) and his wife decided to sell the property and move to a home that already provided more of what they were looking for. However, they never expected to find a home that would be so perfect during lockdown and the ‘new normal’ so many people now find themselves in.

Tao comments: “When we purchased our bungalow back in 2015, our intention was to turn it into our dream home but as time went on, with a new baby and work commitments, we didn’t get a chance. We started looking for our next home but couldn’t find anything at the right price in the right location.”

He continued: “As I need to commute into the city regularly for work, travel time into London had a big impact on our decision. I needed a shorter journey than my current one so I could spend more time with my family, but we still wanted to live in a countryside setting. Even though I’m now back in the office full time, I can drive into the city; it only takes me around 45 minutes, whereas before it would have taken over an hour.”

After comparing a range of locations, Tao, who is Head of Sales for Berkeley (Capital), decided moving to Enfield or Barnet, as he knew the area well and frequently visited for work, was the right choice: “I never thought I’d end up selling myself a home but its proximity to the City and the added bonuses of on-site facilities, open green space and a real community 124 DECEMBER 2020

feel – not to mention the exceptional quality homes of course – made it an easy decision.”

He continues, “It’s great to have a chance to be a part of the community being built here.

It’s in Berkeley’s DNA that its developments create long-lasting sustainable communities.

They organise events to encourage the residents to get together so you can get to know your neighbours in a relaxed and fun environment; that’s exactly the sort of place we wanted.”

He continues: “Lockdown forced us all to live differently and access to green space has become so important to people; while I knew we wanted to be more in the countryside, I never thought when we decided to move to Trent Park, just how important it would become; our dream home has become the perfect place to live for even more reasons than we dared hope.”

THE DETAILS Prices at Trent Park start from £565,000 for a one-bedroom apartment with Help to Buy available and £695,000 for a two-bedroom apartment at Highfield House and Lyon House. Five-bedroom homes are priced from £1,950,000 at the newly launched King George Collection. To make moving as stress-free as possible, Berkeley can help arrange an agent to sell your existing home through its Assisted Move service. Some homes are available to move into now. For more information about the homes at Trent Park, or to arrange a viewing, call the Berkeley sales team on 020 3930 4912.

Trent Park provides idyllic setting for homebuyers in leafy north London hotspot

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omprising a collection of superbly designed houses and apartments set around the centrepiece of a Grade II listed mansion, luxury residents’ amenities and a setting in the midst of 413 acres of parkland yet with quick and easy connections into Central London, Trent Park in Enfield has something for everyone.

Highfield House and Lyon House are two elegant, newly-built apartment buildings featuring one and two-bedroom apartments ready to move into. The buildings overlook the stunning vista of Trent Park’s daffodil lawn, which was planted by one of the former owners of the mansion house, socialite Sir Philip Sassoon. Bright and spacious, each of the homes features a contemporary, open-plan layout and is designed to Berkeley’s impeccable standards.

“Bright and spacious, each of the homes features a contemporary, open-plan layout” For those looking for a house, the King George Collection – the latest phase of generously-sized houses – provides the perfect solution for second and third-steppers, who are prioritising putting down roots that are flexible to the needs of their growing families. The homes occupy a coveted location set in a quiet corner of the scheme, lined with trees on three sides.

These five-bedroom homes are beautifully designed with classically-inspired exteriors complemented by plenty of contemporary, flexible, family living space inside. Set across three storeys,

THE DETAILS At Highfield House and Lyon House, prices start from £565,000 for a one-bedroom apartment with Help to Buy available on selected homes, while at the King George Collection prices start from £1,950,000 for a five-bedroom house. For more information, call Berkeley on 020 3930 4912 or visit trent-park.co.uk.

every home has an open-plan kitchen/dining room and two additional reception rooms, the smaller of which could be used as a snug or a study. One or more bedrooms could easily be styled as a home office depending on the needs of the family.

Complementing the village community atmosphere of Trent Park, residents have exclusive access to The Lawn Club, which features a range of leisure facilities including an open-air swimming pool, a state-of-the art gym in a beautifully restored Grade II listed Orangery and outdoor tennis courts.

For those who need it, the hustle and bustle of central London remains within easy reach; trains from Oakwood Underground station – which can be reached using a residents’ exclusive shuttle bus service from the development – take just under half an hour to King’s Cross.

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Offers in excess of £950,000

QU EENS AVE N UE , F I N CHL E Y, N 3

Terraced

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2

1

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A chain-free Edwardian family home with four bedrooms, west-facing garden and a kitchen breakfast room; located 400 metres from Victoria Park and “Outstanding” primary schools.

THE OWNERS LOVE “Our large summerhouse, which is a delightful retreat all year around, and a space to enjoy the well looked after mature garden. The spacious cellar offers more storage space than one could hope for”

“Unique period features, original fireplaces, and stain glass give this house so much character, while the rooms feel light and airy, with a real sense of tranquillity”

“Location is perfect: a quiet street but so close to Victoria Park, excellent schools and all the amenities in the high street”

Scott Henderson

Manager Finchley Central Office F RE E HOLD

T: 020 8346 0102 E: N3@martyngerrard.co.uk

£1,050,000

SELVAG E L AN E , M I L L HI L L , N W 7

Link-Detached

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2

2

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CHAIN FREE - A recently refurbished and extended four bedroom link-detached family home located close to Mill Hill Broadway.

THE OWNERS LOVE “How close our home is to popular schools, the Broadway’s excellent shopping facilities and the Thameslink Station (where I can be in central London or the West End in 30 minutes)”

“Our kitchen entertainment area, with underfloor heating. As a family, we spend most our time in here and our garden is large and welcoming with mature trees and great for summer parties”

“Our bedrooms are good size and done to a high standard, with modern bathroom fixtures and the large loft is easily accessible using the stairs and gives ample storage”

Gregg Cruder

Manager Mill Hill Office F RE EHOLD

T: 020 8906 0660 E: NW7@martyngerrard.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

“Alex Ross, whose multi-award winning illustrations have become highly sought after as standalone works of art” 2020 has been a year of heroes, so we are proud and delighted to present The DC Legends Collection, celebrating the most iconic superheroes of all time - alongside the inevitable villain or two. The impressive line up includes Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman and of course, the Joker, some of the most memorable characters in fiction, comic book or otherwise.

Each dynamic image is available as a framed 130 DECEMBER 2020

paper edition of 195, a larger framed box canvas edition of 195 and an exclusive, deluxe box canvas edition of only 49 copies, all are hand signed by the artist and come with Certificate of Authenticity.

Which Iconic Superhero or Evil mastermind will you choose…?

Available to buy online and in-store at Gallery 1066 Fine Art and all in time for Christmas.

For the perfect gifts under the tree and to learn about other exciting offers please do get in touch with a member of our team.

Wishing you all a superhero’s Christmas. gallery1066fineart.com

The Legends Collection by Alex Ross (and then underneath) ‘Wonder Woman: Defender Of Truth

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his year at Gallery 1066, we have teamed up with The Justice League and the forces of evil… at DC Comics’.

Producing an extremely rare and collectable limited edition legends Collection by the master of DC illustrations; Alex Ross.

Since its launch in 1934, DC Comics has paved the way for the entire industry with its strategies and styles, storylines and superheroes, becoming a major and much-loved part of American and international popular culture. DC has worked with some of the greatest artists in comic book history, from the original creators of Batman and Superman to the brilliant contemporary master of interpretation, Alex Ross, whose multi-award winning illustrations have become highly sought after as standalone works of art.

The Legends Collection by Alex Ross (and then underneath) ‘Tango With Evil’

The Legends Collection by Alex Ross (and then underneath) Original Seven

A SUPERHEROES CHRISTMAS

bathrooms of distinction

The art of bathrooms: from inspiration to installation

Beautiful Bathrooms, Unbeatable Prices Europe’s Leading Manufacturers on Display

SHOWROOM 020 8440 1106 18-19 Green Hill Parade, Great North Road, Barnet, Herts EN5 1EU email: Neil@aquarooms.co.uk