Life Magazines (Hertfordshire editions) February 2017

Hertfordshire’s designer wedding venue www.lauraashleyhotels.com

Radlett Premier Bathrooms

From the

editor Welcome to our February issue...

S

aying ‘I Do’ at Laura Ashley The Manor is a unique experience. A stunning timbered country house set amongst pretty woodland, featuring spectacular views across London’s skyline could not be more idyllic. Pass through the doors of The Manor and enter a realm of romance - the signature style of one of the world’s best-loved fashion and interior brands. From decadent chandeliers to plush sofas and exquisite fabrics, each carefully thought-out detail evokes elegance and style.

Get ready to enjoy a fantastic shopping experience at the UK’s leading pregnancy and parenting event of the year, The Baby Show with MadeForMums. Find everything you need for bump, baby and you.

Abbot’s Hill is a happy, dynamic and thriving school offering an all-round education for girls aged 4-16 years. The Day Nursery & Pre- School caters for girls and boys from 6 months. Set within 76 acres of parkland, our historic campus offers modern facilities in a magnificent country setting on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead.

A wonderful wedding fair featuring 60 informative exhibitors and two superb fashion shows held at Hatfield House in the historic Old Palace at 12.30pm and 2.30pm featuring the latest bridal gowns together with live entertainment. The Wedding Fair is open between 11.00am- 4.00pm and car parking and admission are complimentary.

The Hertfordshire Wedding Fair, St Albans is Hertfordshire’s premier wedding fair and is the county’s oldest county wedding fair. Whether you are looking for the latest wedding gift ideas or a beautiful wedding venue from around Hertfordshire or beyond, this is the wedding fair to visit for inspiration. The wedding fair hosts over 70 quality exhibitors and includes some of the oldest and best known wedding companies in the region.

Faye Manning Editor

Get this issue online

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD 26 Bridge Road East, Welwyn Garden City, Hertfordshire, AL7 1HL, UK www.thelifemagazines.com Editor Faye Manning

Design/ Production Emma Andrews

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Editor Assistant Katie Miller

business DEVELOPMENT manager Nicci Chatham

Sales James Marshall

••••• Sub Editor Alex Lux

•••••

••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

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

MONEYHILL.indd All Pages

RE U CH O 017 BR 2 R EW FO N

D A V O N P O RT N a t u r a l l y

D i s t i n c t i v e

I n t e r i o r s

Experience Classic English Elegance

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

C o l c h1 eMoneyhill s t e r ,Parade, England Phone:Road, +44(0)1923 773906 Uxbridge Rickmansworth, celia@moneyhillinteriors.com Hertfordshire WD3 7BQ m o nd ea yvhoi lnl ipn ot er rt i.ocr os .mc o m

Phone: +44(0)1923 773906 celia@moneyhillinteriors.com To request a portfolio or speak to a designer:

01206 760 800

moneyhillinteriors.com

28/10/2015 18:49

LOVE LOCAL – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i ma g e : T H E B A B Y S H O W AT E X C E L , 3 - 5 M A R C H

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12 march The Novotel Hotel Wedding Fair Following a very successful wedding fair in September we are delighted to be returning to the Novotel, Stevenage this spring.

The wedding fair promises to be an even grander affair with the catwalk show relocated to the main foyer. Open from 11am3.30pm with two fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm and over 30 local suppliers this is certainly worth popping along to.

Novotel Hotel, Knebworth Park, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG1 2AX

[ eve n t s ]

the calendar 18 february Charity Dinner Dance and Auction Have fun in aid of Dementia UK, with good food, great wine, inimitable live band and fantastic auctioneer all the ingredients for a great night in aid of such a worthwhile cause. For more information about the event and a full list of auction items visit, call 07901 942494. Head along for a pre dinner drink, three course dinner, auction and dancing at 7pm until midnight. Price is £50 per person or £450 for a table of 10.

Brocket Hall Golf Club, Welwyn, Hertfordshire AL8 7XG

8 FEBRUARY 2017

15 february Hertford Toy and Train Collectors’ Toyfair The evening Hertfordshire Bi-Monthly event comes to the county town, welcoming old and new faces to buy, sell, swap or obtain valuations on your old traditional toys including Cars, Buses and Trains, some lorries and farm related items, the opportunity to purchase many of the latest model releases. Diecast and plastic, includes model railways from Hornby, Tri-Ang, Bachmann and more. 7pm to 9pm. Opens at 7pm to close to public at 8.45pm. Admission £1 Adult. Cold Rolls , Tea Coffee etc from Colin the new diecast man available at modest prices.

Richard Hale School, Hale Road, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG13 8EN

THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY Make Your Will Month Is making a Will on your New Year’s resolution list? As your life changes it’s important to keep your Will up to date as it’s the only way to make sure your wishes in life are carried out after you’re gone.

If you’re buying a house, getting married, expecting children (or grandchildren) or retiring then you probably need to take action.

Throughout February 2017, participating solicitors from St. Albans and Harpenden will be waiving their standard will-writing fee in return for a comparable donation to Rennie Grove Hospice Care. Rennie Grove Hospice Care is a local charity providing specialist nursing care in Herts and Bucks to patients and families diagnosed with cancer and other life-limiting illnesses. So by taking part in Make Your Will Month, not only will you be setting your affairs in order, you’ll also be helping others who need vital nursing care to ensure they have the best quality of life throughout their illness. Ensure your loved ones are taken care of in the future.

For a full list of participating solicitors go to www. renniegrove.org/makeyourwill or call Rennie Grove on 01442 890222 for further details.

19 february

The Hatfield House Wedding Fair A wonderful fair featuring 60 informative exhibitors and two superb fashion shows held in the historic Old Palace at 12.30pm and 2.30pm featuring the latest bridal gowns together with live entertainment. The Wedding Fair is open between 11.00am4.00pm and car parking and admission are complimentary.

If you are travelling by train, Hatfield House is just a 5 minute walk from Hatfield British Rail Station. A guided tour of the venues facilities will be available on the day. Whilst visiting why not visit the period shops, galleries and restaurant. We look forward to meeting you.

11am-4pm Hatfield Park Hertfordshire AL9 5NQ

24 FEBRUARY-15 MARCH Sal Jones exhibition

*****

EDITOR’S

PICK

Head to the Nude Tin Can Gallery to see Sal Jones’s exhibition. Her emotionally charged paintings, portraying, primarily, fictional subjects, are an attempt to capture the action of expression out of context whilst transforming the stereotypical portrait. Unlike traditional portraiture there are no sitters and they do not represent a specific person but rather suggest an emotive state indicative of the social and cultural time we live in. The paintings portray fleeting moments, the expression of the subject offering us a glimpse into their innermost thoughts. They can be interpreted as part conversations, part musings, into which the viewer is drawn, willingly or not, into the world of the subject, both in a voyeuristic and complicit way. The heavily cropped, close-up compositions, enhanced by the artist’s use of colour and mark-making, and the use of dialogue for titles, affect our emotional response and prompt a personal empathy with the characters portrayed. The painted surface draws attention to the process of painting and to the artist’s choices in transforming the photographic source image. ‘I’m interested in developing ideas around fiction and reality and shifting contexts; the cross-over between painting, photography and film, how we interpret and relate to images as spectators and how they affect us.

Nude Tin Can Gallery, 125 Hatfield Road, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 4JS

25 MARCH Jewellery valuation Day

26 february The Glass Fair @ Knebworth

Whether it’s for insurance purposes or to gain a deeper insight into the history of your family heirlooms, a professional valuation is a great way to understand more about your jewellery. Shirley Mitchell, an independent valuer and member of the NAJ Institute of Registered Valuers, will be carrying out professional valuations 10am-4pm, by appointment only. Alternatively, take your jewellery to the Halls Green studio in advance and they will advise you on prices before allocating the item/s a time slot on the valuation day.

If you’re taking along inherited jewellery that is in need of a new lease of life then why not make the most of the day and also book a consultation with one of the expert designers to chat about the possibility of a simple alteration or re-design?

Harriet Kelsall, Fairclough Hall Farm, Halls Green, Hitchin, Hertfordshire SG4 7DP

Leading specialist fair with around 70 exhibitors selling fine antique and collectable glass alongside contemporary artists showing their own work. Special in-fair exhibition.

A great day out for enthusiasts and collectors of glass of all genres and periods from early Georgian drinking glasses right through to stunning contemporary studio pieces, including paperweights, Art Deco, Lalique, Victorian, pressed glass, scent bottles, jewellery, Scandinavian, Murano, Maltese, Bohemian, decanters, Monart, Czech etc etc. Exhibitions, book signing, demonstrations, refreshments, free parking.

10.30am-4pm, admission: £5.

Knebworth House, Stevenage, Herts SG1 2AX FEBRUARY 2017 9

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Down Hall pancakes Matthew Hill, Head Chef at Down Hall Country House hotel, located on the Hertforshire/ Essex border, has created a special buttermilk and blueberry pancake recipe for the much loved Pancake Day this February 28th 2017 Buttermilk Pancakes Makes: 4

Ingredients

25 february

25 february

Quiz Night Please bring your own nibbles and drink for the evening. Teams up to 8. Prize for the winning and losing team will be given out. A raffle will be held on the night. All monies raised will go to Rennie Grove Hospice Care. £8 per person Doors open at 7.00pm, Quiz starts at 7.30pm. Call 01727 731028 to enter your team 1st St Albans Scout Group, Wadley Hut, 56 Watford Road, St Albans, Herts, AL1 2AF

25 february

Dire Streets - The UK’s Leading tribute to the music of Dire Straits Dire Streets perfectly capture the distinctive, authentic sound of one of the biggest guitar bands of all time. Fronted by finger picking guitar ace John Brunsdon and his band of accomplished musicians, they play with an attention to detail and musicianship that marks them as the stand-out Dire Straits tribute in the UK. 7.30pm, tickets £19.

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, Hertfordshire WD7 8HL 10 FEBRUARY 2017

5 march

the fatback band See The Fatback Band performing! Doors open at 7.30pm and the show is only open to over 14s.

The Alban Arena, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3LD

The Hertfordshire Wedding Fair The Hertfordshire Wedding Fair, St Albans is Hertfordshire’s premier wedding fair and is the county’s oldest county wedding fair.

Whether you are looking for the latest wedding gift ideas or a beautiful wedding venue from around Hertfordshire or beyond, this is the wedding fair to visit for inspiration. The wedding fair hosts over 70 quality exhibitors and includes some of the oldest and best known wedding companies in the region. There are two professional fashion shows at 12.30pm and 2.30pm featuring dresses from a number of bridal shops both in Hertfordshire and further afield, in addition you can view the latest menswear on the catwalk. For family members you will also see bridesmaid dresses and the latest collections for mother of the bride or mother of the groom. We hope that you will enjoy the surprise live entertainment which in the past has included everything from dancers to a comedian, even a brass band! 11am-4pm.

Alban Arena Hertfordshire AL1 3LD

120ml Buttermilk 150g Plain flour ½ tsp Baking powder 1 Pinch of salt 3 large eggs beaten Garnish Crushed blueberries Maple syrup Vanilla cream Crispy streaky bacon

Preparation Cook the bacon till crispy. Crush the blueberries with the back of a fork to crush them. Add some vanilla paste to double cream and whip till firm. Serve with some fresh blueberries & maple syrup.

Method 1. Sieve the flour and baking powder together into a bowl.

2. Add the salt to flour and stir.

3. Whisk in the buttermilk and then the eggs. You should end up with a smooth batter consistency.

4. Heat a frying pan with a little knob of butter, when the butter has melted pour in enough batter mix to cover the bottom of the pan.

5. Cook on a medium heat until golden and then flip over and cook again till golden.

6. Turn out onto a plate, wipe out the pan with kitchen paper and repeat the cooking process until all the batter has gone.

7. Serve straight away with all of the condiments.

HOME & PROPERTY

FEBRUARY 2017 11

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NUDE TIN CAN If your heart beats a little faster when you see something provocative, challenging, intriguing, then we think you’ll love Nude Tin Can. We are extremely delighted to be showcasing three very exciting contemporary artists each with a solo exhibition

SAL JONES

‘Appearances’ – contemporary paintings, re-interpreting the portrait.

Solo Exhibition 24th February – 15th March 2017 Private View Friday 24th February 7pm. Reserve tickets got to www.nudetincan.gallery The paintings of Sal Jones have already invoked a tremendous reaction at Nude Tin Can and we are pleased to showcase her paintings in this show that promises to bring real art direct to your eyes. Viewers are able to identify and react strongly to her oil paintings.

She paints emotionally charged portraits. Captured moments rather than the traditional poses associated with portraiture. A very exciting show.

If you enjoy

SABINA PIEPER ‘Opulence’

IVOR SEXTON

‘The Day is Full Of Birds’ Solo Exhibition 3rd – 22nd February 2017 Bringing alive the portrait with a narrative infused with real life experience and real people. With a waiting list of models offering to sit for Ivor each painting captures a real identity of the subject, while around the painting influences with aspects of the artist himself, as always he leaves something of his own life in each painting. His paintings are extraordinary and interesting to view, always something to find. Almost an illustrative style with fine details. Ivor Sexton is already producing the masterpieces of the future. A very desired artist with clients including Ruby Wax, French & Saunders and Simon Mayo.

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EXHIBITION DATES 1st April – 25th April. Private View Thursday 30th March 7pm. Reserve tickets at www.nudetincan.gallery Like an exquisite game of hide and seek, Sabina creates art work that immediately draws you in, yet keeps you looking. The central figures powerful women, keenly wrought - invite company, but share the space with creatures and objects from the exotic to the ordinary. These women are not set in a certain time frame but exist eternally. Her unique images invite repeated viewing; inviting and yet challenging, calling and yet creating distance.

Sabina works on paper which is a medium best suited to capture the first draft of an idea, i.e. something fleeting and still progressing. Paper therefore offers a surface for an artistic process that is reflected in an immediate way, allowing change and release from rigidity. Collage, drawing and painting provide texture, layers and complexity to the surface of each composition.

Nude Tin Can Gallery, 125 Hatfield Road, St Albans AL1 4JS. 01727 569291. www.nudetincan.gallery.

“Sabina creates art work that immediately draws you in”

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It’s Barking Mad

…at Gallery 1066

O

utstanding young British artist Samantha Ellis has forged a highly individual approach which has evolved over the years into a loose, dynamic and recognisable style. Situated in Cambridge Samantha has taken the art world by storm with her fun, exciting style. As an avid dog enthusiast Sam’s new collection features a cheeky Pug, an obedient Spaniel, Labrador’s, Beagle, Boxer dog and many more. The lifelike expressions perfectly captured with an immense charm of each individual character – each promises to delight!

Pop down to the gallery to see these endearing hand embellished limited editions which are now on display.

“The lifelike expressions perfectly captured with an immense charm of each individual character – each promises to delight” To stand out from the crowd… original 3D work by Kevin Bandee These exquisite new original works by visionary and self-taught artist Kevin Bandee are now unveiled at Gallery 1066. Kevin’s vivid original images are inspired by fractals, infinite complex pictures of repeating geometric shapes that exist within nature. They can be found in the intricate details of trees, snowflakes, clouds and crystals and he uses their shapes and concepts in combination with dazzling colours and some of nature’s most beautiful creations.

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Although he acknowledges his admiration for other artists, Kevin has always sought to depart from existing styles and genres and to make something which is both new and original. His extensive experimentation and the many hours spent painting in the studio have led him to a multilayered approach in which varying depths of colour and texture create a mesmerizing whole. Kevin uses acrylics and resin to create aqueous surface design. His technique is indebted to the Turkish art of ‘ebru’, involving marbling, pouring, chemical reaction, fluid and flow. He revisits each piece many times to ensure that the three-dimensional effect is working in perfect harmony with his portrayals of nature. Prices start from just £550.00 Gallery 1066 the hidden jewel in Hertfordshire is nestled down a cobbled mews on Hitchin Street, please take a moment out of your busy schedule and pop down to this charming old coaching town of Baldock and be inspired!

A warm welcome awaits you. info@gallery1066fineart.com; www.gallery1066fineart.com; T: 01462 896164

Top left: Posh Pooch by Samantha Ellis Left: Meeting Point by Kevin Bandee Column, from top: Devoted To You by Samantha Ellis; Here’s Looking At You Kid

by Samantha Ellis; Reporting For Duty

by Samantha Ellis; Summer Hummingbirds I

by Kevin Bandee

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until 17 february Half Term Trail and Craft Head into the Visitor Centre and complete your craft activity before following our trail around the woodland. No need to book, just drop in. All children must be supervised by an adult. 10am3pm (last entry 2:30pm) Child £3 (price includes trail and craft) Ashridge Estate Visitor Centre, Moneybury Hill, Ringshall, Berkhamsted, Hertfordshire HP4 1LT

the GREAT

OUTDOORS

Outdoor events making the most of Hertfordshire

12 march

19 february

Hidden Hertford Walks - St Andrews Street led by Peter Ruffles Why not take a leisurely stroll to work up an appetite on a Sunday morning?

All walks begin at 11am. Booking is essential. Due to lack of donations on our previous walks, there is now a small charge to take part; this has to be paid when booking your place, either in person at the museum or by credit/debit card over the telephone. £2 per person.

18 Bull Plain Hertfordshire SG14 1DT

33 Wood Vale: Open Garden for NGS This award winning garden is home to the Corokia National Collection along with a great number of other unusual Australasian, Mediterranean and exotic plants complemented by perennials and grasses which thrive thanks to 250 tons of topsoil, gravel and compost brought in by wheelbarrow.

Emphasis on structure, texture, shapes and contrasting foliage, hence first time opening in Feb to showcase winter structure.

11am-3pm.

33 Wood Vale, Highgate, London N10 3DJ

25 & 26 february “This award winning garden is home to the Corokia National Collection”

16 FEBRUARY 2017

Old Church Cottage - Open Garden for NGS Small garden around a 400 year old thatched cottage adjoining a disused churchyard with ancient yews and Norman tower being the remnant of a Chapel of Ease. Many species and varieties of snowdrops together with cyclamen, crocuses, irises and other early spring bulbs. Garden is at the end of a very narrow country lane, so you are requested to park at Village Hall. Admission £5, Children free. Light refreshments. 11.30am to 3pm. Open for charity.

Old Church Cottage, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 4QT

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UNTIL 19 FEBRUARY

KIDS’

CORNER

February Frolics Visit Willows Activity Farm for live lambing, newborn lamb bottle feeding demonstrations and a full day’s programme of fleecy fun for a baa-rilliant day out. Visitors also have the chance to try fleecy arts and crafts in the Busy Bee Marquee and to enjoy live performances from world-famous characters Peter Rabbit™, Lily Bobtail and Benjamin Bunny.

The fun continues with dry ice skating experience on the magical (synthetic) ice rink. Open every day 10am-5.30pm.

Willows Activity Farm, Coursers Road, London Colney, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL4 0PF

Things to do and see with the little ones in Hertfordshire

UNTIL 19 FEBRUARY Circus comes to Great Amwell Enjoy many new acts at John Lawson’s Circus for 2017 including; All the way from The Ukraine Yuri on the comedy trampoline, Dream Together on the Aerial Straps Miss Lily western rope-spinning Tilly and Kizzy on the Aerial Cube And direct from a sell out season at Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland award winning Clowns – The Konyots. This is a great family show and is not to be missed.

Shows 12pm, 2pm and 4pm every day, £6.50 a ticket.

Van Hage, Pepper Hill, Great Amwell, Hertfordshire SG12 9RP

19 february

“Despite his intimidating appearance, The BGF turns out to be a kind-hearted soul”

16 february the BFG (PG) A girl named Sophie encounters the Big Friendly Giant who, despite his intimidating appearance, turns out to be a kind-hearted soul who is considered an outcast by the other giants because, unlike them, he refuses to eat children. 10.30am, tickets £3/£2 available from www.sandpittheatre.co.uk and on 01727 799565.

The SandPit Theatre, Sandringham School, Hertfordshire AL4 9NX 22 FEBRUARY 2017

Alice in Wonderland Imagination runs wild and logic is abandoned in this fantastical, larger-than-life musical brimming with nonsensical fun and excitement for the entire family.

Follow Alice and the White Rabbit as they set off on a colourful, topsy-turvy adventure like no other and meet a host of outlandish characters including the troublesome twins, Tweedle Dum and Tweedle Dee, the notorious Queen of Hearts, the Cheshire cat and of course, the Mad-as a bat-Hatter! Immersion Theatre proudly bring their trademark energy to their most spectacularly bonkers show to date, as children and adults alike are invited to join in the hilarity of seeing this classic story brought vividly to life before having the opportunity to meet the characters after the show...why not come dressed up as your favourite?

A perfect day out for the entire family, you’d be mad to miss it!

The Radlett Centre, 1 Aldenham Avenue, Radlett, Hertfordshire WD7 8HL

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Hit The Slopes!

CELEBRATE THE LAUNCH OF THEIR NEW CHILDREN’S SKI DEPARTMENT

Images courtesy of Perfect Moment

M

ake sure your little ones are all wrapped up this winter as Harrods welcome you to their new Children’s Ski Room. The department, which will cater to all of your little ones’ ski trip needs, launches this winter. From super warm outerwear to fashion forward ski accessories, the department will champion collections from a handful of much loved outdoor sports brands.

The space will offer ranges from Canada Goose, and for the first season, ski brand Bogner will be available at Harrods for little snow bunnies. As well as this, the space will see the exciting launch

“The space will offer ranges from Canada Goose, and for the first season, ski brand Bogner will be available at Harrods” of two new brands. Perfect Moment, ski clothing that brings fashion to function, and Shred, offering the finishing touch to any outfit with their helmets and goggles built for extreme performance and protection.

The Children’s Ski Room will offer collections from 4 – 16 years, and is situated in the Childrenswear Department on the 4th floor.

And for you Mums that want to look as trendy as your kids on the slopes, you can stay chic in the snow with Harrods range of designer ski wear and women’s ski jackets from luxury brands including Fendi, Canada 24 FEBRUARY 2017

Goose, Woolrich and Harrods of London.

And not forgetting Daddy – he can step into ski season with Harrods designer ski wear and men’s ski jackets from key brands including Canada Goose, Woolrich, Bogner and more.

Harrods 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, SW1X 7XL. You can also purchase online at www.harrods.com

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Sing a Long a Frozen The Prince Charles Cinema, off Leicester Square “There is a screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen so you and your kids can sing along with Elsa and Anna”

MORE INFORMATION

Frozen is a PG certificate film but the age recommendation for Sing-a-long-a Frozen is 5+ years as younger ones may not be able to fully participate.

The Prince Charles Cinema have their Sing-a-Long-a Frozen on these dates

T

he Prince Charles Cinema will host Sing-a-long-a Frozen when the unique, interactive screening of the worldwide phenomenon Frozen rolls into town as part of a nationwide UK tour.

26 FEBRUARY 2017

There is a screening of Disney’s Frozen with lyrics on screen so you and your kids can sing along with Elsa and Anna! The evening is introduced by a live host who will show you how to use your interactive prop bag, then you can just sit back and ‘Let it Go’! YOU the audience can be the stars!

The kids can dress up as their favourite character and be a Snow Queen for the day or Olaf the snowman, the coolest iceman ever!

Disney’s Frozen has taken the world by “snowstorm” and has become the biggest animated film in the world and fifth biggest film of all time. In this heart-warming tale, fearless optimist Anna sets off on an epic journey, teaming up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven, to find her sister Elsa whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everestlike conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom.

The Academy Award winning song “Let it Go”, which has now sold over 250,000 copies in the UK, will feature as part of Sing-a-long-a-Frozen, along with the rest of the platinum certified soundtrack making this sing-a-long one not to be missed.

Sooooo ‘do you wanna build a snowman…..?’

SUNDAY 26TH FEBRUARY SUNDAY 26TH MARCH SUNDAY 30TH APRIL SUNDAY 21ST MAY SUNDAY 25TH JUNE Running time: 2 hours 40 minutes, no interval

For more information, visit www.princecharlescinema.com

BOX OFFICE: 0207 494 3654 THE PRINCE CHARLES CINEMA 7 LEICESTER PLACE, LONDON WC2H 7BY

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The world’s largest LEGO Store opens in Leicester Square The LEGO Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of play materials, has officially opened its new UK flagship store in Leicester Square

T

he largest LEGO store in the world boasts exciting new experiences, such as a ‘Mosaic Maker’ which offers LEGO fans of all ages the opportunity to purchase their very own, one of a kind, personalised LEGO mosaic portrait. The machine captures your image and in under ten minutes printed instructions and the bricks required to complete the LEGO portrait are supplied to the customer. The London store is the first in the world to make this unique experience available.

“Inspiring creativity and developing the builders of tomorrow is a central theme for the store” Inspiring creativity and developing the builders of tomorrow is a central theme for the store and this is encouraged with unique hands-on interactive brick experiences. These include ‘Master Builder Playtables’, where children will be free to build whatever they can imagine - inspired by iconic London landmarks and a range of exciting LEGO themes.

Through a partnership with Transport for London, LEGO has created a life-sized London Underground tube carriage. The tube is the largest LEGO build in the store, is made up of 637,903 bricks and took 3,399 hours to build. The carriage offers fun photo opportunities and is a must see for all the family.

28 FEBRUARY 2017

Other highlights within the new London LEGO Store include: • Build a Minifigure Tower with Talking LEGO Minifigures – includes four different talking LEGO Minifigures including Lester, Royal Guard, Bobby the Policeman and Sherlock Holmes • LEGO Minifigure Scanner – an interactive experience available from outside the store where people can find out which LEGO Minifigure they are • Digital window display - state of the art screens that show LEGO movies and clips • Brickadilly corner – an interactive information centre informing shoppers of in-store event schedules and highlighting retail experiences within the store • Digital endless isle – a digital experience allowing shoppers to browse a digital catalogue of all LEGO sets available in store.

LEGO STORE, 3 SWISS COURT, LONDON W1D 6AP. Tel: 0207 839 3480 Opening hours: Mon-Sat: 10:00am – 10pm; Sunday: 12noon-6pm. For more news from the LEGO Group, please visit www.LEGO.com

LOVE LOVE LOC LOCAL AL

Highlights of The Baby Show at ExCeL in London will include: Over 200 trusted brands offering visitors the chance to thoroughly test and try before buying.

Exclusive show offers and competitions from top parenting brands.

The Baby Show returns to London ExCeL 3rd – 5th March 2017

G

et ready to enjoy a fantastic shopping experience at the UK’s leading pregnancy and parenting event of the year, The Baby Show with MadeForMums. Find everything you need for bump, baby and you - with amazing offers all in one place, for three days only!

There will be over 200 exhibitors showcasing a huge array of essential baby products from trusted brands as well as the latest innovations. It’s a mustattend show for mums and dads to be, parents, friends and family members.

Again there will be a wonderful line up of speakers on The Baby Show Stage with MadeForMums including experts from the world of breastfeeding, sleep and nutrition as well as real celebrity parents giving their first-hand stories and advice. If you are looking for more personal and tailored advice, you can benefit from private 15 minute appointments with The Baby Show Experts at the One To One With The Experts Area – you just need to book your appointment on the day.

And once you’ve shopped until you’ve dropped, don’t worry about all the carrying as you can take advantage of the free Emma’s Diary Collect-By-Car service where you can drop off all your purchases and continue until you’ve got a carful!

Wing Yan Lee, Marketing Manager at The Baby Show says: “The Baby Show continues to grow and grow and each year we have more visitors, different exhibitors and new speakers offering a whole range of advice. As the largest shopping destination in the UK for new and expectant parents it’s a great opportunity to try out and compare a wide range of products. There are new product launches the most trusted brands on the market and fantastic

30 FEBRUARY 2017

expert advice all under one roof. We look forward to welcoming everyone there!”

TICKETS

The advanced ticket price is £14.45 on Friday and £15.45 for either the Saturday or Sunday, while on-the-door tickets cost £20. For more information visit www.thebabyshow.co.uk.

Friday 3rd March: 9.30am – 5.30pm Saturday 4th March: 9.30am – 5.30pm Sunday 5th March: 9.30am – 5.30pm

The chance to listen and ask advice from the UK’s top baby experts.

Catwalk shows with all the latest fashions in maternity, baby and toddler wear.

A complimentary crèche where parents can drop off their little ones and enjoy the show knowing they are being cared for.

Dedicated baby facilities ensure visitors have everything they require, including the Tommee Tippee Feeding Area where parents will be able to take advantage of heating and sterilising equipment, complimentary baby food and a comfortable and quiet space for breast feeding.

The MadeForMums Buggy Testing Track enabling parents to test-drive every buggy to ensure it’s perfect for their lifestyle.

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Happy Families at claridge’s

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The magical experience of discovering London as a family starts here.

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ust as Mary Poppins danced through a chalk pavement drawing, or Harry Potter melted into the wall at platform 9¾, or Edmund stepped through the back of a wardrobe or Alice through a looking-glass, so walking through the doors of Claridge’s opens up a world that will capture your children’s imagination forever.

At Claridge’s, in their experience it’s the small details and surprises that children love best. The cinema ticket in the room, an invitation to choose a movie from the library and kick back with a bucket of popcorn… Claridge’s tote bags of colouring books, stickers… a teddy bear in porter’s livery… hot milk with a chocolate dipstick and marshmallows… a rocking-zebra.

Children who visit Claridge’s get to go on treasure hunts, eat from menus designed for them and can even meet the chef! And it’s all managed like clockwork so that parents can enjoy time off in one of London’s most impeccable luxury hotels.

Claridge’s can plan your adventures out too: take a picnic, snap a selfie with Peter Pan, feed the ducks, hop on a bus or the London Eye, shop tweenie fashion… and return to play ‘challenge the concierge’ and test your new-found knowledge of London.

Rates from £960 for two rooms

Offer Includes • Two bedrooms to accommodate all the family • Traditional English breakfast for a family of up to four • Take your time with a 2pm late check-out* • ‘Happy Families’ classic card game • Up to two children eat complimentary once per day - from our Children’s menu • Welcome bottle of champagne to toast your arrival • Surprise children’s treats • Selection of films to enjoy in your room or suite • Selection of games consoles on request (including Nintendo Wii, subject to availability) • Complimentary wifi throughout the hotel

About Claridges At the centre of London’s Mayfair, Claridge’s, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, embodies grand English style, timeless glamour and impeccable, intuitive and highly tailored service. It is London’s art deco jewel, and home to breath-taking rooms and suites. From London’s finest afternoon tea in the Foyer to vintage champagnes and rare spirits at Claridge’s Bar, all are part of the hotel’s unique splendour and charm.

Claridges, Brook St, Mayfair, London W1K 4HR www.claridges.co.uk/luxury-hotel-offers/ happy-families. *late check-out subject to availability

LOVE LOC AL

Peppa Pig & launch new Muddy Puddle Walk

This spring, Entertainment One’s (eOne) Peppa Pig is teaming up with the world’s leading children’s charity, Save the Children, to launch a fundraiser like no other

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etween 8th - 14th May 2017, nurseries, early years groups, families and children are being encouraged to take part in a Peppa Pig’s Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children.

Organising a Muddy Puddle Walk is a great way for your little ones to explore the world around them and jump in muddy puddles, like Peppa Pig, for a worthy cause. However you fundraise – you’ll help Save the Children make life better for children around the world.

Images courtesy of Jamie Baker/Save the Children

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There are lots of easy ways to raise money on your Muddy Puddle Walk for Save the Children. The free fundraising pack is full of great activities and fundraising ideas, so you can choose which option will work best for you and your children. Your little ones can get sponsored to walk or splash in puddles at the park, or they can simply donate to join your muddy puddle walk. You can even top up your total by baking and selling Muddy Puddle cupcakes!

Vicky Fallon, Head of Community Giving at Save the Children, said: “We hope that nurseries and families across the nation sign up and take part in their very own Muddy Puddle Walk! By jumping in muddy puddles like Peppa Pig and raising money for Save the Children – you can help the world’s most vulnerable children to have a brighter future.”

By raising money for Save the Children, you’ll help support their work to give every last child the chance to learn, play and grow up healthy and happy. Millions of children around the world are missing out on this – just because of where they’re born. The fundraising pack will also explain what life is like for children in different countries, helping them see how they are making a difference through supporting Save the Children.

Sign up your nursery or family now at www.MuddyPuddleWalk.org to get your free Muddy Puddle Fundraising Pack, full of fundraising ideas and tips for great walks and activities indoors and out – including free Peppa stickers and Save the Children balloons too!

About Save the Children Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In the UK and around the world, they work every day to give children a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm.

When crisis strikes, and children are most vulnerable, they are always among the first to respond and the last to leave. They ensure children’s unique needs are met and their voices are heard.

They deliver lasting results for millions of children, including those hardest to reach. They do whatever it takes for children – every day and in times of crisis – transforming their lives and the future we share.

For more information visit: www.savethechildren.org.uk

LOVE LOVE LOC LOCAL AL

THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC SUPER HEROES

World’s Largest LEGO® Exhibition inspired by Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman Artist Nathan Sawaya presents more than 120 works of art, created with more than 2 million LEGO bricks London’s South Bank, from 1st March 2017

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ollowing a successful run in Madrid, THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC SUPER HEROES makes its London debut on 1st March 2017. The contemporary art exhibition will be shown in an exclusively built space on London’s South Bank.

Together with Warner Bros. and DC Entertainment, the well-known and celebrated artist has created the world’s largest collection of artwork inspired by DC’s Justice League, including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman, alongside DC SuperVillains the Joker, Harley Quinn and more.

Through a series of immersive galleries, THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC SUPER HEROES showcases Sawaya’s interpretations on characters, vehicles, environments and themes found throughout DC Super Heroes mythology including transformation and reinvention, strength and weakness, as well as good vs. evil.

To kids and adults who love LEGO, Sawaya is a

38 FEBRUARY 2017

bit of a super hero! For the last decade, the former lawyer- turned- artist has elevated the simple toy to highly sought-after artwork, and has inspired countless kids to think outside of the box. Sawaya has turned to the stories of super heroes for his own inspiration in this exhibition — featuring LEGO sculptures that emulate DC’s legendary characters, vehicles, surroundings and themes that are present in the DC mythology.

THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC SUPER HEROES exhibition includes more than 120 original pieces, created exclusively from LEGO bricks, including a life-size Batmobile (5.5 metres) and built from half a million standard pieces.

Sawaya has captured on a real scale some of the most iconic Super Heroes and Super-Villains from DC, exploring more than 80 years of history.

“Just like Superman, we all have our own story.

This art collection is based on the elements of the journey of a super hero, including the moment in which we are all called to the adventure,” explains Sawaya.“As a kid I spent Saturday mornings sitting on the floor playing with LEGO and watching the DC Super Friends cartoons. So this new collection of artwork is a dream come true for me.”

THE ART OF THE BRICK: DC SUPER HEROES is in partnership with Warner Bros.

Consumer Products and DC Entertainment.

London’s South Bank, Doon Street Car Park, Upper Ground, London SE1 2PP. Open daily from 1st March 2017.

Sun – Wed: 10am – 6pm.

Thurs: 10am – 8pm.

Fri/Sat: 10am – 7pm Last admission one hour before closing For more information and to purchase tickets please visit www.aotbdc.co.uk Or telephone 0333 247 0620

Special opening week offer, all single tickets £10 from 1st March until 6th March.

BATMAN, SUPERMAN, JUSTICE LEAGUE and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics. (s16)

LEGO, its logo, the brick and knob configuration and the Minifigure are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2016 The LEGO Group. Used with permission.

EDUC ATION

A truly magnificent education Abbot’s Hill is a happy, dynamic and thriving school offering an all-round education for girls aged 4-16 years. Our Day Nursery & PreSchool caters for girls and boys from 6 months.

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et within 76 acres of parkland, our historic campus offers modern facilities in a magnificent country setting on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead.

We have a strong record of academic success. Throughout the school, pupils are taught in small classes in which excellent teaching and personalised support ensure that everyone is inspired to exceed their potential and to shine.

The broad curriculum is enhanced by a wide range of trips and activities to stimulate learning. Our extra-curricular clubs offer a lively balance of

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sport, performing and creative arts, science and technology, journalism and problem-solving.

At Abbot’s Hill, we pride ourselves on our pastoral care. The sense of being part of an extended family is frequently commented on by pupils, parents and staff alike. The School’s ethos is one which places the well-being and success of the individual child at its centre, and this is reflected in many aspects of School life.

In such a nurturing environment, children grow naturally in confidence, are happy to embrace new challenges and eagerly take on increasing responsibilities. Pupils leave Abbot’s Hill fully equipped to take on the challenges and opportunities life has to offer.

To experience Abbot’s Hill School for yourself, come to our next Whole School Open Day on Saturday 11 March, 10am-12pm. No booking is required. the details

For more information, please call us on: 01442 240333 or visit: www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

Independent Day School for girls 4 - 16 years Day Nursery & Pre-School for girls and boys from 6 months

Abbot’s Hill is a happy, dynamic and thriving school with an excellent record of academic success and an outstanding reputation for pastoral care.

To see our Day Nursery, Pre-School and Prep School in action,come to a

Working Open Event

Wednesday 22 February, 10.30am - 12pm

For a tour of the whole school, come along to our next

Open Day

Saturday 11 March, 10am - 12pm

If you wish to attend an Open Day, you do not need to inform us in advance. Simply arrive at a time to suit you. Last tours begin at 11.30am.

You will need to book, and places are limited. Please call the Registrar on 01442 839169 or email registrar@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk to book your place.

For further details please call us on 01442 240333.

Bunkers Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP3 8RP E: registrar@abbotshill.herts.sch.uk www.abbotshill.herts.sch.uk

LOVE ATION EDUC LOC AL

The highest possible levels of academic success and personal growth St Columba’s College is an Independent Catholic Day School, which uniquely offers a seamless, high-quality education for boys from 4 to 18.

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t each phase of education, St Columba’s strives for academic excellence, whilst realising that it is whole person education that best prepares boys for the world and workplace of tomorrow.

Students of all ages and abilities are encouraged to achieve the highest possible level of academic success and personal growth.

The College expects its 446 february F E B R U A R Y2 021071 7

students to extend their learning through the extensive extra-curricular programme. Activities, including Art, Music, Drama, Languages and Sport, complement the core curriculum and enable each boy to broaden his experiences.

All students benefit from opportunities for service and leadership, and are encouraged to participate in charitable, Business and Enterprise initiatives. The Senior School offers a comprehensive Careers and Higher Education programme, incorporating work experience.

St Columba’s is proud of its reputation for strong pastoral care and promotes fruitful relationships between students, parents and staff. The welldeveloped House and Tutor System generates healthy competition and allows students to be rewarded for their successes. the details There are regular Open Days throughout the year. Please browse the website and book an individual tour of the College www.stcolumbascollege.org

ST COLUMBA’S COLLEGE

A CATHOLIC INDEPENDENT (HMC) DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS, AGES 4-18

A quality education from start to finish

OPEN AFTERNOON PREP SCHOOL (4-11) Thursday 23rd February 1.15pm – 2.30pm “The quality of the pupils' achievement and learning is excellent.

The College meets its aim that every pupil should learn from their total experience with much success.”

ISI Inspection, January 2015 King Harry Lane St Albans Hertfordshire AL3 4AW T: (Senior) 01727 855185 (Prep) 01727 862616 E: admissions@stcolumbascollege.org www.stcolumbascollege.org

EDUC ATION

We’ve been here before Matthew Hilton-Dennis is Head of English at Merchant Taylors’ School, talks about teaching English at a time of dramatic political change.

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s a teacher, I often find myself wondering on the extent I should let the real world into my classroom. When modern life becomes precarious and uncertain, it can feel comforting to retreat behind the shield of canonical texts. Here things matter but in an environment controlled by the reader or by the teacher. What consequences there are happen to somebody else, who generally lived a long time ago and is in most cases made up. But as is so often the case with texts that transcend their own place and time, they take one look at modern life and tell the reader we’ve been here before. Over and over again.

So it is that I have found myself watching the news over the last seven months as though it were a kind of vaudeville theatre, a series of separate comic acts on both sides of the Atlantic. Pantomime sometimes appears a better analogy. Regardless of genre, I feel the odd sensation of thrill and despair as I watch people we love to hate declaim and strut and fret their hour upon the stage. They say they represent forgotten peoples in 21st Century societies; this is populism in action; in a reluctant way I am forced to agree this is how it seems. I feel like I have seen this before.

And where? Dickens with my Year 10 class first leaps to mind. I think of the exploited factory workers in Hard Times¬ whose lungs are full of coal fumes and snowy flakes of cotton dust. I see them standing before Slackbridge, the professional agitator paid for by the trade unions to incite industrial action against their cruel masters. Slackbridge fashions himself as one of them, his cry of anger and outrage is their cry. But the truth is he comes to take their voices away with him and use them for an ulterior purpose. Sound familiar? And why are these long-suffering workers so susceptible to what effectively amounts to a political hijacking? Because their severely limited education has failed to instruct them in the art of critical thinking. They have never dreamed it possible of actually calling the establishment to account. Unsurprising then that they fall for the first agent provocateur who comes their way: a man whom Dickens reminds the reader is in no way above the humble ‘hands’ in anything (and certainly not in morality or looks) other than the few inches of stage upon which he stands.

Listening to Nick Clegg recently at a Merchant Taylors’ school trip to the Cheltenham Literary Festival, I was inspired by his clarion call to rediscover the middle ground in British politics, not so much as a political stance but as a place where peoples of all persuasion can gather, voice their opinion and if so inclined change their mind. This sounds sensible and intelligent. The grand hope was for the Internet to become this kind of place, but the reality is that to enter into any number of different online chat rooms is to find what Clegg describes as ‘people furiously agreeing with each other’. So I look to my English classroom instead as a liminal space, one which teeters between the norm and the subversive and is always critically reflective of ideas put forward by the texts we study and by the students themselves. It seems to me that anyone who emerges from this kind of discursive culture is properly equipped to withstand today’s 24-hour supply of constant information, the Orwellian Post-Truth New Speak world of Brexit and Trump, and make their own judgement. the details For more information about Merchant Taylors' School Sandy Lodge, Northwood, Middlesex HA6 2HT Telephone 01923 845514 or email admissions@mtsn.org.uk www. mtsn.org.uk

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“EXCEPTIONAL” 2014 School Inspection

“THE FEEL OF AN

“A TRULY ROUNDED,

OXBRIDGE COLLEGE”

HIGH-OCTANE EDUCATION”

Good Schools Guide

Good Schools Guide

“BOTH COUNTRY & URBAN: A DAY SCHOOL WITH THE AIR OF A BOARDING SCHOOL” Tatler

Open Morning 6th May 2017 10.00 – 12.30 Tel. +44 (0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School, Sandy Lodge, Email. admissions@mtsn.org.uk Northwood, Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561

Moor Park (Baker Street 35 minutes) Coaches: Barnet, Beaconsfield, St Albans, Wembley, Mill Hill & Radlett

www.mtsn.org.uk

For boys 3 - 18

EDUC ATION

Lockers Park A Boy’s Education

Lockers Park is a thriving day and boarding school where boys receive a first class education that is balanced and happy.With an excellent academic reputation, the school prepares boys for top British public and independent senior schools, frequently with scholarships.

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et in 23 acres of woodland on the outskirts of Hemel Hempstead, it is a day and boarding school for boys aged 7-13 with a co-educational PrePreparatory for ages 4-7.

Academia, The Arts, Sport and Co-curricular success are celebrated in equal measure at Lockers Park and the school’s motivational and supportive environment allows pupils to discover hidden talents and initiate lifelong passions.

Inspiring Boys “Lockers Park brings out the best in boys”

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observes the Good Schools Guide. Drawing upon its 140-year heritage, the school employs a kinaesthetic approach to ensure pupils are highly engaged and achieve the best academic results.

An emphasis on the individual child, combined with small class sizes, outdoor play and structured sport every day enables each boy to fulfil his potential. “A wonderful environment where each child is given the space to grow,” observes a Lockers Park parent.

Senior School Focus An extensive Senior School Preparation Programme ensures no stone is left unturned when it comes to senior school selection. Recent graduates have moved onto the likes of Eton, Harrow, Rugby, Shrewsbury and Stowe as well as the excellent local senior day schools including Berkhamsted, Merchant Taylors’ and St Albans. the details Come and visit us at our Open Morning Saturday 18th March 2017, 10:30am–12:30pm.

Contact secretary@lockerspark.herts.sch.uk or call 01442 251712 to register. www.lockerspark.herts.sch.uk

LOCKERS PARK ‘Brings out the best in boys’ Good Schools Guide

Open Morning - Saturday 18th March • The perfect blend of academic excellence and pastoral care • Scholarships to leading senior schools won every year • 140 years’ experience of educating boys Preparatory School, Day & Boarding for Boys (7-13 Years) Pre-Preparatory School, Co-Educational (4-7 Years) www.lockerspark.herts.sch.uk

Hemel Hempstead

T: 01442 251712

EDUC ATION

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NURTURING EXCELLENCE The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School has a reputation for nurturing excellence and helping boys to achieve the very best in every area of their personal development.

This was evidenced by the top exam grades of summer 2016, enabling Habs to scoop the prestigious accolade – The Sunday Times Independent School of the Year 2017.

At A-level only 1.5% of grades were lower than B grade, and GCSE results were extraordinary too, with 94% A*/As. “We are delighted to be named best independent school in the country.” affirms Headmaster, Peter Hamilton “The hard work, commitment and passion of our pupils, teachers, support staff, parents and governors is what drives Habs to the forefront of global education.”

Academic achievement is only part of the experience at Habs. Students are given the opportunity to discover their potential across a range of disciplines. The Medburn Centre, a brand new, state-of-the-art sports complex, was opened in 2016. One of the best sports facilities available at a British school, it is yet another extension to the school’s exceptional existing amenities. Boasting an eight-lane, half Olympic size swimming pool, fitness suite, squash courts, climbing facilities, sports hall, conference roo m, school shop and café.

Habs has a strong and supportive multicultural community at its core. Students make friends across the most extraordinary range of backgrounds and cultures, and its community stands as a beacon of tolerance and respect.

The school is serviced by a unique coach service with over 110 stops, spanning a 30-mile radius, offering an unrivalled access to the school and provision for pupils staying for after-school activities.

Open Day Saturday 7 October 2017 1 – 4pm The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Tel: 020 8266 1700 admissions@habsboys.org.uk www.habsboys.org.uk

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Nurturing Excellence

Join Habs – Independent School

of the Year 2017

For boys aged between 5 and 18.

Booked tours available throughout the year

www.habsboys.org.uk Independent School of the Year 2017 Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF

020 8266 1700

Headmaster Peter Hamilton MA admissions@habsboys.org.uk

registered charity no: 313996

EDUC ATION

T

The Best Start

he start of school is a big step in a child’s life and also in that of its parents. There is much debate about when is the right age to start being taught, but here at Westbrook Hay we feel that it is obvious; it is when the child is ready. Children can come to us in the term in which they turn 3, some will come from nurseries, other straight from home, while some will choose to remain at the local nursery and join us in Reception, when full time school begins.

In our purpose-built Lower School, children benefit from a secure setting, with its own playgrounds, and advantageous teacher: pupil ratios.

The aim is to provide a gentle start to life here, building on children’s existing skills. After two years

“The aim is to provide a gentle start to life here, building on children’s existing skills” or so in our Nursery, children move to Reception and this is the stage at which we see most children make the break through to literacy and numeracy.

One of the aspects that most appeals here is that the curriculum that underpins all the learning in the Nursery is delivered through children playing while they are learning. The subtlety involved requires skilled planning and delivery, but does mean that children largely remain blissfully unaware that they are being taught at this early stage.

The setting has to be exciting for children, sustaining their interest and one that offers sufficient variety to make every day an enjoyable challenge. Give a child the opportunity to discover that the 10 coloured blocks they have can be sorted 12 FEBRUARY 2017

into a variety of groups and then built into a threedimensional shape and the seeds of mathematical knowledge are sown in a practical manner, which has to be better than sitting there barking out the rote order of numbers in a robotic fashion that demonstrates little of value.

The modern child expects to be engaged by what they are doing and here at Westbrook Hay we believe that we provide children with the best start to their learning journey. Why not book a visit to see for yourself what we have to offer.

Our next Open Morning is on Saturday 4th March 2017 9.30am – 12.30pm. www.westbrookhay.co.uk

EDUC ATION

Let the Drama begin…

How to get your kids into stage school S

hows like the X Factor and Britain’s Got Talent make fame seem fast track, but behind the scenes is often a long, arduous journey.

The idea of your Sylvia Young Theatre School child forging a career A specialist performing arts school offering excellent vocational and academic on stage may seem education. The school was established in 1981 in Drury Lane. In July 2010, they a risky one, but with moved to premises in Nutford Place, just off Seymour Place in W1. The site renowned stage schools houses two vocational floors with studios, rehearsal rooms, a recording studio, offering academic two academic floors and a large canteen with two courtyard gardens. studies alongside the Ages: “The Sylvia Young Theatre School is non-denominational and covocational, children educational. Students range from 10 to 16 years of age.” can perfect their talents 1 Nutford Place, London W1H 5YZ while gaining a secure www.syts.co.uk education.

Read on for our guide to getting your child into stage school...

Parents who are interested in letting their children follow the creative path should start looking into some of the best acting schools for kids in UK. Children at a young age will benefit from learning drama at stage schools in many different ways, not least of which is gaining confidence.

Acting schools for kids help with raising child’s self-esteem and levels of confidence, and positive reinforcement is one of the key factors to successful training and fun creative outlet. Even if your kids aren’t interested in pursuing careers in the entertainment business or the artistic world, all the tools that good teachers in some of these best acting schools for kids in UK will provide them with will benefit students in many different aspects.

Kids learn best when they are surrounded by fun, supportive and understanding teachers. They love to play and learn when the environment is comfortable and relaxed instead of being confined to stress of work. Some of these best acting schools for kids is exactly what your child might need, and the classes will usually be kept to smaller sizes in order to provide a The Barbara Speake Stage School safer, more focus environment.

In addition to having kids learn The school was opened on February 10th 1945 as a dancing acting from a variety of other sources, school only, by the present principal Miss Barbara Speake MBE. including reading books that expand In 1963 it became a full time school providing academic and imagination, stage schools can also be a artistic training. The strength of the school is in its friendly great idea. Best acting schools for kids atmosphere, traditional qualities and caring and committed staff. in UK will focus not only on educating If you wish for a small happy school for your child, where every children in the artistic field but building teacher can care for his or her indivudual needs, then it is here. It their confidence levels, exploring and has been proved that pupils here succeed though enjoyment of praising their creativity. their school which gives them confidence to follow whatever path But above all else, the most they choose whether in the field of entertainment, or in a more important part of having your child academic career. attend one of these acting schools for Ages: “Barbara Speake Stage School, London is an independent kids is that they will have an insane school for boys and girls aged from 4 to 16.” amount of fun playing, and definitely East Acton Lane, East Acton, London, W3 7EG enjoy the process! www.barbaraspeake.com

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West End Summer School The Ultimate Theatre Summer School for 8–21 year olds. An amazing week-long course at the renowned Guildhall School of Music & Drama, past students of which include Daniel Craig and Orlando Bloom! Led by top industry professionals and West End stars that gives your child the chance to perform on a West End Stage!

West End Stage, Top Floor, 17 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden WC2E 7NL

Italia Conti Arts Centre One of the most famous stage schools in the UK. Founded in 1911, the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts is Britain’s oldest Performing Arts training school. It is renowned throughout the world as a training centre of excellence. Italia Conti Arts Centre in Guildford, Surrey, is the addition to their growing campus and offers a range of unique courses which incorporate quality Performing Arts Training with the opportunity to undertake Teacher Training qualifications. They provide full and part time courses for students of all ages, from little ones finding their feet, through to professional training for those embarking on a career in Performing Arts and Musical Theatre.

Ages: “Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts, London is an independent school for boys and girls aged from 10 to 19.”

23 Goswell Road, London, EC1M 7AJ www.italia-conti.com

Stagecoach Theatre Arts School Stagecoach Theatre Arts is a highly regarded network of performing arts schools with a proven record of delivering quality dance, drama and singing lessons to youngsters worldwide. Over the years Stagecoach has provided a springboard for some of the UK’s leading young talent and has had the privilege of watching thousands of kids grow in confidence and ability. Their formula of teaching small classes of children an hour of dance, an hour of singing and an hour of drama on a weekly basis was an instant success.

Ages: “Dance, Drama & Singing Classes for 4-18 year olds” Multiple locations across the world. www.stagecoach.co.uk

BRIT School The BRIT School is a Performing Arts and Technology School for teens aged 14-19, located in Croydon. Students have the chance to study vocational subjects in dance, theatre, music and media alongside the national curriculum.

The BRIT School for Performing Arts & Technology, 60 The Crescent, www.brit.croydon.sch.uk

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EDUC ATION

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EDUC ATION

The power of all-girls St. Francis’ College is a happy and thriving community providing a modern education based on Christian principles, based in Letchworth Garden City. by other girls, they show fewer inhibitions and take more positive risks. St. Francis’, girls consistently perform well in their exams. Our 3-year average for A* - B at GCSE is 89% and at A-level is 79% and girls successfully progress onto the UK’s top universities.

The girls are actively encouraged to take on leadership roles: in a 3-18 school the younger girls are encouraged by strong female role models.

Young women graduate from St. Francis’ not only ready to take their place in the world as a person of equal intellectual stature, but also knowing they are capable of leading.

Home-from-home boarding

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he pupils, all girls aged between three and 18 years old, receive individual care promoting their spiritual, moral, intellectual, creative and physical development. The unique qualities of each girl are recognised and social responsibility and respect for others is encouraged. The College is renowned for its warm and welcoming community, where the staff are committed and dedicated to the well-being and intellectual development of all the girls. One Sixth Form pupil recently commented that “At St. Francis’ College, the staff are on the journey with you.” Parents of new girls regularly feedback about how welcome their daughter has been made to feel.

Mental Health in adolescence is becoming an increasing concern; in particular, with teenage girls.

At St. Francis’ College a proactive stance is taken to develop strategies early in the girls’ academic careers. The College is committed to seeking opportunities to promote positive mental health, alongside the resilience to cope in the modern world in which our girls find themselves. The girls are encouraged to balance the high demands of academic excellence with extra-curricular activities and enrichment.

The power of all-girls Based on independent educational research, alongside 85 years of experience, St. Francis’ College recognises that single-sex education offers girls the greatest chance to ignore stereotypes, develop strong self-worth and grow in confidence.

It is a proven fact that girls achieve higher results when educated in an all-girls environment. The St. Francis’ learning environment is tailored to the needs and interests of girls; by being surrounded 18 FEBRUARY 2017

Many girls choose to board at the school as this fits in with busy family lifestyles. This allows them time to study, have fun with their friends and take advantage of the academic tutors on hand to help. St. Francis’ College offers the option of full, weekly and flexi-boarding. The Boarding House is home to a thriving community of 65 boarders aged between 10 and 18 years from the UK and overseas. This safe and stimulating provision provides an environment where the girls are able to develop as individuals in a setting where their opinions are listened to. The Boarding House has a full programme of evening and weekend activities, workshops and visits to inspire the girls.

St. Francis’ College, Broadway, Letchworth Garden City SG6 3PJ; 01462 670511; www.st-francis.herts.sch.uk

“The Boarding House is home to a thriving community of 65 boarders aged between 10 and 18 years from the UK and overseas”

EDUC ATION

A Personal Approach to Learning S

t Albans Independent College, initially founded as St Albans Tutors in 1988 has established an excellent reputation for providing the highest quality education.

Class sizes are limited to no more than seven students so that everyone is assured of significant personal attention. This allows students to build confidence and achieve excellent grades.

All of our teachers are both highly qualified and experienced and many are current or former examiners.

We offer a wide range of A-level and GCSE courses, including Arts, Sciences, Social Sciences, Maths and Humanities. The A-level programme is designed to be flexible so that any combination of AS, A2 and full one-year A-levels can be offered.

There is a strong expectation that students work to the best of their abilities yet the College promotes an otherwise informal and friendly atmosphere where students are on first name terms with teachers and there is no formal dress code.

The high-achieving ethos at the College is fostered by our Student Mentoring system that continuously monitors students’ progress across all of their subjects. Mentors provide guidance and help motivate students to achieve their academic potential.

“Senior leaders are aware of teachers’ strengths and areas for development. They confirm that the characteristics of the most effective teaching observed in the inspection are standard practice at St Albans College. These include teachers’ excellent, high-level subject knowledge; very high expectations of students to participate and learn; and an adult atmosphere where students’ understanding is continually checked and extended

20 FEBRUARY 2017

by fast, deep questioning and reference to what they need to do to gain good examination grades.

Such teaching motivates students, who participate enthusiastically.”

– Ofsted Inspection Report (March 2014)

OUR VALUES • To promote academic achievement • To promote personal development • To provide flexibility in subject choice and course combinations • To provide individual support to students in every aspect of their education • To seek to motivate and inspire students to succeed As teachers, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing our students achieve academically and to share in their success on results day. We are proud of the progress students make at the College and the part we play in helping them to broaden their options and develop into excellent young men and women.

We are committed to providing the best quality education, our teachers are highly qualified and experienced and the procedures we have put in place such as our Mentoring and Monitoring systems ensure students are continuously supported to achieve their academic potential.

St Albans Independent College, London Road Campus: 69 London Road, St Albans, AL1 1LN; Victoria Street Campus: 19 Victoria Street, St Albans AL1 3JJ; For further information, please contact the College Office on 01727842348 or e-mail: office@stalbanscollege.co.uk or visit our website: www.stalbanscollege.co.uk

“As teachers, there is nothing more rewarding than seeing our students achieve academically and to share in their success on results day”

EDUC ATION

Learning outdoors is challenging and fun

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or one term every academic year, girls at all levels at St Albans High School Prep (STAHS Prep) spend a full lesson each week learning outdoors.

The school is a Forest School, offering regular opportunities to achieve, develop confidence and raise self-esteem through hands-on learning experiences in a woodland environment. Extensive grounds, including woods and a meadow, allow the girls to enjoy being adventurous and explore the outdoors in a safe environment.

For instance, girls in Year 6 wanted to create a roundhouse in their forest school session and spent a term moving it from planning to completion.

Initially the girls learned how to identify trees in the school’s forest, why hazel and willow branches are most suitable for the purpose and how to use loppers safely to cut the branches. Once all the materials were collected, they created the body of the structure by weaving between the posts, compacting the branches as they went. To ensure that the round house was insulated, the girls went on to pack the weave with straw and to complete the process they experimented with mixing materials to daub the walls.

Judy Rowe, Headmistress, says: “This process took a lot of perseverance and self-awareness. The

poles were twice the size of the girls and there was a large surface area to cover. They had to work together and not give up.”

When complete the roundhouse will provide shelter on wet days for the school’s forest school sessions, as well as for two toddler groups which run weekly for local families.

“Learning outdoors offers the girls the chance to work together on challenging projects, while having fun,” says Mrs. Rowe. “These types of activities support their physical health and wellbeing while motivating them to work together to solve problems and enjoy the challenges.”

St Albans Prep School for Girls, Townsend Ave, St Albans AL1 3SJ. 01727 853800. www.stahs.org.uk

A focus on leadership at St Albans High School for Girls

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recent report by Coutts and the Centre for Entrepreneurs (Beyond the First Business, February 2016) shows that women make up only 19% of serial entrepreneurs and they start both fewer and smaller companies than men.

“This is an interesting statistic for anybody involved in educating girls,” says Jenny Brown,

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Headmistress at St Albans High School for Girls (STAHS). “Girls are performing better than boys at all levels of education, but when it comes to leadership in the wider world, the numbers of women get smaller the more senior the role.”

And today’s world, she believes, is looking more challenging than ever, despite the efforts of government and the education sector to encourage gender equality and opportunity at all levels of society.

This is why the school is focusing on leadership development, confidence and well-being through both academic and co-curricular activities this year and beyond.

“In a year when all eyes are trained on leaders we are explicitly fostering qualities of leadership - growing resourceful, curious and courageous pupils,” says Mrs. Brown. “Our young women are more exercised and engaged with the world than perhaps ever before and determined to make a difference to it.

So we are offering opportunities for leadership, lots of emphasis on speaking out, on building teams, developing mentors and encouraging

perseverance. This is all helping them develop resilience and confidence to succeed in their chosen careers.”

The school offers opportunities for the girls to learn outside the traditional spheres of education, bringing in inspiring speakers and forming partnerships and collaborations with other organisations and communities. Recent speakers include Dame Carol Black, Principal at Newnham College, Cambridge, and Angela Maurer, Head of Tesco Labs.

Girls in all years also embrace an ‘Inspiring Choices’ careers programme as well as a series of ‘Insight’ meetings, which offer an opportunity to hear from a wide variety of professionals, ask plenty of questions and discuss work experience possibilities.

Mrs Brown says: “Our aim is to give girls the opportunity to discuss their aspirations and identify their next steps to becoming confident and fulfilled young women.”

St Albans High School for Girls, Townsend Ave, St Albans AL1 3SJ. 01727 853800. www.stahs.org.uk

EDUC EDUC ATION ATION

How to Create a Child Genius London parents are upping their game in pursuit of the perfect report card. From philosophy programmes to bilingual nurseries, we offer a guide for modern tiger parents.

SCHMOOZE OR LOSE As every London parent knows, your child is an extension of your personality: your little ambassador in the world. It’s not enough to hope that your children will be happy and well-adjusted. You need them to be happy, well-adjusted and much cleverer than the other children you know. That magical phrase ‘gifted and talented’ on the report card is so much classier than turning up at the school gates in Armani jeans and an Audi Q6.

All this may look like middle-class one-upmanship masquerading as parental love, but let’s be honest: there is no greater love. We’re alchemising our own insecurities into the parenting rocket fuel that means our children will never have to suffer such insecurities themselves. Want to build a child genius? Then swot up on this...

Katie Hopkins left the nation aghast after declaring she wouldn’t let her children associate with kids named Charmaine, Chardonnay or Tyler.

Nevertheless, ambitious parents do vet their kids’ pals. Perfect manners and a reading age of 15?

Good playmate. Chews exercise books and likes setting things on fire? Discouraged. Hence Maggie & Rose, the UK’s first private members’ clubs for kids, with two branches in West London. Members can enjoy endless soft play, cookery classes, dance classes — and excellent social opportunities.

OK COMPUTER The modern parent hip to Steven Johnson’s Everything Bad is Good for You, knows that not all video games don’t rot the brain: they give it an IQraising cognitive workout. Look at the brilliant way digital publishers such as Nosy Crow incorporate problem-solving into storytelling, while apps such as Reading Raven are engaging ways to get children into the world of words.

TUNE IN Studies consistently prove that children who learn music show greater increases in IQ than those who don’t; research has shown that listening to Mozart produces a measurable increase in spatial reasoning.

So seek out an instrument that will nourish your darling son or daughter’s mind and soul, and make your home intolerable during practice time.

DOUBLE UP Most London schools are attended by children who speak many languages. Naïve parents might think this is a good way for their child to pick up a few foreign words. Wrong. Instead, you want to aim for a nursery where they speak two languages deliberately, rather than lots by accident. French never hurts, and there’s a good number of French bilingual nurseries in London. To be extra chic, brave the waiting list for a place at the Azbuka Foundation’s Russian nursery in Richmond.

THINK OR SINK What could be more important than a five-year-old getting special help dealing with the things that are most fundamental to the history of Western thought. Most tots are struggling with whether ‘i’ comes before ‘e’. Get yours worrying instead about whether existence comes before essence. The P4C Co-operative (philosophy for children) – a

worldwide educational movement launched in 1972 by the American professor Matthew Lipman — offers, for a modest subscription (£35), a range of philosophy-teaching online resources for kids.

ACT UP Drama lessons are very important for building confidence, imaginative play, empathy and those healthy feelings of hating six-year-old Amelia because she beat you to Cordelia in the school production of King Lear, so you ended up having to play Goneril. It’s tough out there: best get them used to it early. The media yummy mummies of Crouch End swear by Perform and its high-energy productions: each term builds to a full ensemble performance, backed by bespoke apps and a swishy online costume shop.

LEARN THROUGH PLAY There’s oodles of research supporting it. Chess, of course, teaches basic game theory and pattern recognition. And Scrabble offers vocabulary and simple maths. But bridge, as well as being an opportunity for parents and children to bond, encourages complicated strategic thought, memory and communication skills. Andrew Robson’s bridge club in Fulham does children’s lessons.

TEST TASTES As they say in computer science: garbage in, garbage out. It’s all very well making sure that your children eat well at home, but what about when they’re with other children? Unless your child is properly trained, they could easily be tempted to accept Haribo Tangfastics, Dairylea Triangles or worse. So educate your progeny early to question the provenance of food — a friend’s child, for instance, politely declines supermarket sausages and expresses a preference for Parmesan over cheddar.

HOMEWORK IT Everyone knows that the key to learning is partnership. It’s no use leaving your little darling to struggle through writing a poem or drawing a dinosaur without guidance — especially when he/ she thinks Triceratops and Trilobites lived at the same time and were both pink, or that one sentence in two merits an exclamation mark. Here’s the chance for your child to watch — little brain soaking it all in like a sponge — as you build a diorama of a PreCambrian habitat or correct that dear little sonnet from Shakespearean to Petrarchan.

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LOVE LOC AL

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LOVE LOC AL

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LOVE LOC AL

A Room| With A View

A Base For Your Business

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t’s a brisk sunny morning as the majority of Harpenden’s human traffic is headed towards the train station to take on their daily commute. But in another part of town, away from train delays and the bustle and tussle of rush hour, there’s a very different vibe…

Just 10 minutes’ walk away is Rivers Lodge, a new business centre perched on the edge of Harpenden Common. There’s no sense of chaos here, just the inviting buzz of new and established small businesses looking to find their way in the world.

Rivers Lodge makes a good first impression.

It’s a good-looking building, Grade II listed and Edwardian in style with its sash windows and in picturesque grounds with ample parking. Inside, a contemporary renovation has kept the period features strong but the rooms light and comfortable.

As well as private office suites, there’s a space for meetings, coworking hot desks and shared kitchen facilities with Nespresso on tap.

Looking out from one of the office windows and onto the Common bathed in morning light, it’s not difficult to imagine what it’d be like working here every day. In locations like this and with perks like a fast dedicated fibre broadband connection, commercial rates, buildings insurance, water rates, maintenance and cleaning of all common areas inclusive of rent, it’s really no surprise that more and more people are seeking out unique and affordable alternative office spaces like this one which are closer to home.

Rise in Small Business Rivers Lodge is owned by The Workstation, an ever-expanding network of shared office spaces, which started out in nearby St Albans. The Workstation runs numerous business centres across Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire and Oxfordshire. The company has expanded to meet the rising demand of small businesses and an upward trend towards flexible working for professionals part of larger organisations. An obvious benefit to shared business centres is that they offer a solution to the isolation and distraction of the home office without the substantial costs of commuting and full office ownership.

For those home-workers and freelancers not quite ready to fly the nest, Rivers Lodge also offers virtual office services which, amongst other things, can offer a registered business address, mail 72 FEBRUARY 2017

“It’s a good-looking building, Grade II listed and Edwardian in style”

forwarding and company phone number to convey a more professional image to clients and colleagues.

Shared office working may not be right for everyone but for some it could make a huge difference to their work-life balance, freeing up more time from the commute and allowing them to choose when, where and how they work.

To find out more about Rivers Lodge Business Centre, please visit The Workstation website: www.theworkstation.co.uk/harpenden, email ​ ​ info@theworkstation.co.uk or call 01727 260 177​

WEDDING GUIDE

– Making your big day extra special – i ma g e : r ot ham s t e d ma n o r h o u s e

WEDDINGS

THE GREAT BARN at MICKLEFIELD HALL Micklefield Hall is the perfect country house wedding venue

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he Hall itself is situated on high ground with distant views across open countryside giving the impression that you are in the depths of the country although it is within the M25. Micklefield Hall is close to both Chorleywood and Rickmansworth, between the M40 and the M1, so easy accessible.

The mature gardens have developed over the generations and provide numerous photo opportunities in the rose garden, on the lawns, by the follies or at the Temple by the ornamental lake at the end of the border. This ‘Temple’ is licensed for civil ceremonies and so a favourite choice for couples to marry in the Summer months.

Anna and Jamie Rankin have been holding weddings at Micklefield Hall for 18 years and have experienced weddings of all shapes and sizes. They used to have a big marquee for Summer weddings but have now converted a 16th century Tithe Barn, which stands in the gardens and provides dramatic space for ceremonies and wedding receptions.

The Great Barn will seat up to 200 with a stage and dancefloor. There is a separate bar area,

“The Great Barn will seat up to 200 and has room for a stage and dancefloor” also made from oak, which is connected to the main barn. It is the exposed wooden structure, in the barn, which provides the ‘wow’ factor when everyone is seated for dinner or dancing the night away on the white dance floor.

The lighting in the barn can be adjusted to create atmosphere for different times of day or occasions.

Uplighters highlight the wood structure and there are chandeliers along the length of the barn which can be dimmed. With both underfloor heating and air conditioning to ensure that temperature in the barn is always just right, no expense has been spared in this award winning renovation.

The terrace is an area where people sit and chat on balmy Summer evenings and this leads to the Garden Room, where there is an open log 76 FEBRUARY 2017

fire, always lit and a favourite with romantics and smokers alike.

“The food is a really important part of the wedding celebrations and everyone always remembers what the food was like”, commented Anna. “If you have delicious food and wine you

“If you have delicious food and wine you immediately relax and enjoy the party” immediately relax and enjoy the party”.

To ensure high standards, Micklefield Hall have paired up with Kalm Kitchen, another husband and wife team, James and Jen Middlehurst. Their attention to detail and presentation is a perfect compliment to the yummy dishes. “If the food was not good it would reflect on us and we value our reputation highly. Also brides only get one chance to get it right and so having ‘Kalm Kitchen’, who were once again voted ‘wedding caterer of the Year’, gives reassurance and peace of mind”, said Anna.

Micklefield Hall has a comprehensive wine list with a wide range of carefully selected wines. Fizz is of course important for the reception and Jamie, who selects the wines, observed that Prosecco is now the most popular because it is well priced and much better than it once was. However, interestingly, English sparkling wine is coming up fast and beating Champagne in blind tastings. Wines can be tasted and selected at the Open Day on 9 April.

The open day: 9 April The Open Day is an opportunity to see Micklefield Hall and meet suppliers for everything from flowers to sweetie carts. Anna and Jamie, their Event Managers and support staff are on hand to advise and answer questions.

“We love to see the joy on the faces of brides when they come to Micklefield Hall” said Jamie.

If you are interested in attending our Open Day, please contact Abby or Julie on 01923 778898 or info@micklefieldhall.com. www.micklefieldhall.com

WEDDINGS

perfect DAY… a true wedding story The Morning & The Aisle I felt ridiculously nervous in the morning, I think it was just the pressure of making sure everything went to plan, I knew my staff would be ‘on it’, but it’s hard just to step back and leave them to it on such an important day!

Just before I started to walk down the aisle, was when it hit me, that this is actually ‘my’ wedding day… Everything became a bit of a ‘blur’ as I walked down the aisle, and realised this is actually happening!... This is not someone else’s wedding or a party I’m arranging, I’m actually doing this!!

We had a fifteen member film crew actually filming our wedding day for a TV program, and although apparently they were everywhere as I was walking down the aisle – I literally don’t remember seeing even one!

Arriving at the Reception

Walking in for our wedding breakfast was everything I had imagined… and more! There was a beautiful big blossom tree as soon as we walked in, with stunning crystals, candles and our guests names hanging from it, there was a string quartet just by 78 FEBRUARY 2017

it playing our favourite songs… And the table set up looked, well, absolutely divine! …We had tall, stunning flower arrangements on each table, with hanging crystals from each setting, beautiful crystal glass wear, with champagne gold charger plates, a deep red rose and champagne gold ribbon on every place setting to match. The tables were lit with what felt like hundreds of candles and everyone had their own personal champagne gold candle as their place setting… There were candelabras and flowers lining the windowsills and stunning textured linens on every table, with chair covers and bows to match…

It looked like something from another world! (I think even Jordan was impressed!!)

Cake

The cake was amazing!... Sat on a beautiful champagne gold sequin table cloth, standing on its own beautifully made ‘lace effect’ icing sugar legs, it was 5 tiers of perfection, set off by a gold leaf tier, a soft lace and pearl design and absolutely stunning cascading flowers, (perfectly tying in with my table arrangements!) down both sides of the cake!... The sugar flowers were so good… I actually thought she’d changed the spec and used real ones! They were incredible!! It was a shame to actually cut into it!... But when I did I was certainly thankful!... A tier of beautifully moist, rich chocolate cake, with

Speeches

The speeches were… interesting!! My family are all characters, with too much to say – so I think each speech was ‘heckled’ (by me to ‘defend’ myself in most cases!) and definitely all took twice as long as they probably should have!!... There was lots of lovely things said – and lots and lots of laughter!!

Evening Music

In the evening we had an amazing band called ‘Rollacoaster’, who were just phenomenal! Any song we wanted, the old songs, the new songs… It was amazing! We also had live acoustic music in the gardens and a Disco during the breaks and from 12am onwards.

First Dance

Our first dance was slightly alternative… We started a little ‘sloppy’ with Take That (who we love)… We did some slow dancing along to this for a while to keep everyone ‘fooled’!... Then mid our ‘lift-spin’

(I’m sure there’s a more formal name for that I should have used!) Jordan dropped me to the floor and we broke into Dizzee Rascal, ‘’Dance Wiv Me’!

It was a funky routine,that put a smile on everyone’s faces and was something that actually represented us as a couple! …It’d always been ‘our song’, but we were aware it wasn’t a ‘normal’ wedding choice of song… When we started dancing to it my best friend instantly burst into tears – she knew this was the ‘real’ us!

Sheene Mill, Station Road, Melbourn, Royston, Cambridgeshire, SG8 6DX; 01763 261393; www. sheenemill.com Photography: Scotts of Cambridge; www.scottsofcambridge.co.uk

creamy chocolate ganache, a chocolate brownie tier, with white chocolate chips, A victoria Sponge tier with Chantilly cream and homemade strawberry jam and a light, but beautifully moist and fruity fruitcake…. I pretty much devoured every tier myself!! (And that’s true!!)

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WEDDINGS

Pre-nups for forward thinking couples

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hile pre-nuptial agreements (also known as pre-nups) are not nearly as fun to think about as wedding cakes or honeymoons, they can help couples avoid financial issues later in life. The truth is, marriage is not only a romantic relationship, but also a sort of business relationship. This realisation has led to the increased acknowledgment amongst couples that a pre-nup can be useful to protect each spouse’s financial interests.

Simply put, a pre-nuptial agreement is a contract that a couple signs before marriage. It sets out what assets there are at the date of the agreement, who owns them and what will happen to them should the relationship end. The agreement should also plan for the division of any future assets acquired over the course of their marriage.

Do I need a pre-nuptial agreement?

Anyone can ask for a pre-nuptial agreement but they are particularly important if one or both of you • has been married before • has children from a previous relationship • is more wealthier than the other • has a lot more debt than the other • own a business • doesn’t plan to work.

Equally, if your child is getting married and stands to inherit your family wealth, you may want to encourage them to enter into a pre-nuptial agreement. It’s not an easy subject to raise, but if done properly it is the most effective way of protecting assets.

What are the advantages of a prenuptial agreement?

Pre-nups encourage couples to discuss finances 80 FEBRUARY 2017

from the outset and can help resolve financial issues before the marriage has started. They offer some protection of family assets and property acquired before the marriage and can help provide financial security for children from a previous relationship.

Pre-nups can save time and costs – whilst the law still does not officially recognise them, they will often be upheld if they are entered into freely and those involved understood what they were doing. This helps to avoid long financial settlement proceedings, saving legal fees and expenses, tension and heartache.

A pre-nup is a form of insurance – you insure your house, holiday, car or any other significance asset, even though the chances are relatively slim that they will be lost or damaged, so why not insure your respective assets in the event of difficulties with your marriage?

For more information or advice please contact Helen Young, Partner Debenhams Ottaway T: 01727 738212 E: hy@debenhamsottaway.co.uk W: debenhamsottaway.co.uk

WEDDINGS

Begin your forever at Laura Ashley’s stunning Hertfordshire hideaway S

aying ‘I Do’ at Laura Ashley The Manor is a unique experience. A stunning timbered country house set amongst pretty woodland, featuring spectacular views across London’s skyline could not be more idyllic.

Pass through the doors of The Manor and enter a realm of romance - the signature style of one of

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the world’s best-loved fashion and interior brands.

From decadent chandeliers to plush sofas and exquisite fabrics, each carefully thought-out detail evokes elegance and style. Your picture-perfect scene is set.

From the Tudor facade to its impressive reception, Italianate fireplace, grand stairwell and

ancient beams, The Manor is a place with a palpable sense of history. With ten acres of traditional gardens, complete with a dramatic rose arbour, fountain and impressive garden chess-board – the photo opportunities are endless.

Whether you’re looking for an intimate gathering in a small room, a relaxed garden wedding or lavish affair in a large banqueting suite, The Manor has a reputation for creating and hosting unique and memorable celebrations. The hotel’s award-winning Cavendish Restaurant provides the perfect setting for your wedding breakfast, boasting picture-perfect garden views.

Quintessential Laura Ashley-designed rooms are surely the finest place to stay the night after an elegant country hotel wedding. 49 beautifully appointed en-suites offer chic surroundings in which to prepare for the day, escape celebrations to enjoy a few moments of calm, or finally succumb to slumber after a day touched by magic.

“Quintessential Laura Ashleydesigned rooms are surely the finest place to stay the night after an elegant country hotel wedding”

Exclusive Hire

Do you dream of becoming Lord & Lady of The Manor for your big day? The Manor can be exclusively yours from your arrival at midday through to breakfast the following morning, including 49 individually designed en-suite bedrooms.. www.lauraashleyhotels.com/themanor

Laura Ashley The Manor Wedding Fayre Sunday 5 March 2017 Experience the beauty of one of Hertfordshire’s most stunning wedding venues. Arrive at midday for a red carpet welcome with Prosecco & canapés, meet with the finest local suppliers & gain the utmost inspiration for your special day FEBRUARY 2017 83

WEDDINGS

Beautiful weddings at Beales B

eales Hotels is a ninth generation family business founded in 1769 with two highly rated four star hotels in North London and Hertfordshire.

The company is owned by the Beale family, and the Managing Director Andrew Beale is the 8th generation to manage the company.

West Lodge Park is an elegant four star country house hotel in Hadley Wood.

There are 58 bedrooms, 8 conference and banqueting rooms, the Mary Beale Restaurant and Terrace Bar. The unique feature of the hotel is the 35 acres of glorious grounds including the Beale Arboretum

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with over 800 species of trees, and a helipad.

A fantastic location for dreamlike wedding photos!

The hotel has hosted wedding receptions for over 70 years, and is also fully licensed for civil wedding ceremonies.

The hotel boasts an AA Rosette for the cuisine and there are a selection of amazing packages to suit your individual taste and requirements.

There is unlimited free parking on site, and it is so easy to welcome your family and guests to the hotel for their accommodation, your wedding ceremony, and the wedding reception itself, all without having to leave the hotel!

The West Lodge Park Suite is the perfect venue for your wedding celebration, with a capacity for 100 guests in the main house or 230 in a marquee.

Alternatively we have a range of smaller suites for more intimate weddings and celebrations.

It would be such a pleasure to host your wedding at this glorious country house hotel!

Beales Hotel is a fine contemporary four star hotel in Hatfield.

There are 53 bedrooms, 8 conference and banqueting rooms, the Outsidein Restaurant and Talkbar.

The unique features of the hotel are the amazing collection of 130 works of modern art, and the stunning modern architecture.

The hotel has hosted wedding receptions for over 50 years, and is also fully licensed for civil wedding ceremonies.

The hotel boasts an AA Rosette for the cuisine and there are a selection of amazing packages to suit your individual taste and requirements.

There is unlimited free parking on site, and it is so easy to welcome your family and guests to the hotel for their accommodation, your wedding ceremony, and the wedding reception itself, all without having to leave the hotel!

The Buckland Suite is the perfect venue for your wedding celebration, with a capacity for 200 guests for the wedding breakfast or 250 for the evening.

Alternatively we have a range of smaller suites for more intimate weddings and celebrations.

It would be a real pleasure to host your wedding at this stunning contemporary hotel!

Beales Hotel, Comet Way, Hatfield, Herts AL10 9NG; West Lodge Park, Cockfosters Road, Hadley Wood, Herts. EN4 0PY www.bealeshotels.co.uk

WEDDINGS

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WEDDINGS

Your special day

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now Rothamsted Research, was born in the house on 28th December 1814. Later on Rothamsted Manor and Gardens were bought from the LawesWittewronge family in the 1930s after public subscription raised the required £35,000 in seven weeks. The house was at first let, but during WWII

“For larger parties, we suggest an elegant marquee on the Croquet Lawn with views over the manicured landscapes, walled garden and rose arches” it was requisitioned for the use of the military and became a listening post, recording and feeding messages to Bletchley Park for decoding. After the war it was converted into accommodation for staff and visitors and is now being transitioned into an exclusive venue in Harpenden. Rothamsed Manor has such a long standing and important history and we’d be delighted to include your special day amongst it.

Rothamsted Manor House, Rothamsted Estate, Harpenden AL5 2BG. www.rothamstedmanor.com

Images courtesy of GnBri Photography & Ian Scott Photography

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estled amongst 12 acres of attractively landscaped gardens and wooded countryside, the Grade I listed Rothamsted Manor will provide an unforgettable backdrop for your special day.

With sunlight streaming through the delicately stained glass windows, the wood panelled Great Drawing Room, completed in 1863, provides an exquisite escape in picturesque Victorian surroundings and is ideal for those seeking classic sophistication. Boasting spectacular views of the north-west gardens, it is the picture-perfect setting for an intimate wedding breakfast and can accommodate up to 76 guests. In the evening you can continue your celebrations and welcome additional friends, the serene panelled Library and dramatic Entrance Hall with inglenook fireplace, being perfect for serving a sumptuous buffet for up to 120 guests.

For larger parties, we suggest an elegant marquee on the Croquet Lawn with views over the manicured landscapes, walled garden and rose arches.

The magnificent warm brickwork, verdant lawns and historical architectural details also provide a stunning background for gorgeous wedding photography.

At Rothamsted Manor, we take pride in offering you our undivided attention. Many venues book more than one wedding on the same day, however with our exclusive use packages yours will be the only wedding taking place. Furthermore, your dedicated Wedding Coordinator will support you at every stage of planning to ensure that your wedding with us is a stress-free perfect occasion to be cherished forever.

For weddings held within the Manor our superb on site chefs will delight your tastebuds with a hand picked menu of your choice, using the freshest high quality produce which will then be cooked to perfection. For larger marquee weddings we can recommend one of our preferred caterers, all experts in their field to ensure you and your guests enjoy an impeccable banquet.

Dating back to 1623, The Manor is integral to the Rothamsted Estate. Sir John Bennet Lawes the founder of Rothamsted Experimental Station,

HEALTH &

beauty – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i ma g e : c o u r t h o u s e cl i n i c s

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Is Exercise Damaging Your Skin?

Would you like to know a secret…..?

Here goes…..

There is a downside to exercise.

This surprises many people. After all, we are all constantly told about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle and the advantages of exercise for your body.

On that score I totally agree: Exercise is fantastic for the body. It’s just not always great for the face.

That’s because exercising – whether at the gym, outside or at home – can play havoc with the skin.

For a start, when you’re exercising, it’s very easy to become dehydrated, and this can leave your skin looking dry and wrinkly, long-term.

If your skin isn’t clean when you sweat – for example, if you haven’t taken your makeup off – you can also clog up your pores, leading to breakouts, increasing the likelihood of blackheads and agitating any pre-existing skin conditions.

More seriously, you may have noticed that longdistance runners can sometimes look gaunt (the look is referred to as ‘runner’s face’!). That’s because there’s not a spare ounce of fat on them.

While that leaves our bodies looking toned and fit, our faces need a bit of fat in order for our skin to maintain its volume and look healthy. When you lose too much weight, everything loosens, and we start to see a slack neck and jowls.

This can also happen when you work out too much at the gym. Even if you’re not running, you can end up with ‘runner’s face’ (but this does take a lot of over-exercising.)

The pity is that looking haggard is the exact opposite of what someone who is exercising wants…. It really is a type of ‘collateral damage’.

You obviously don’t have to – and shouldn’t – stop exercising, so how can you fend off the damage to your skin?

The first two steps are simple. Make sure that you drink lots of water before, during and after a work-out so your skin doesn’t get dehydrated. And – no matter how good you want to look at the gym – don’t step foot on any machines without removing your makeup first.

If you do feel your skin is dehydrated, drop by our clinic. The most efficient way to restore hydration and plump your skin up again is with one of our vitamin IV infusions, which send all the liquid goodness you need directly into your bloodstream, so that it is processed quickly.

It’s also a great way to re-energise and maximise athletic performance, because our infusions restore minerals, electrolytes and antioxidants which you may have lost.

If you find that you’re developing “runner’s face”, you need a gentle dermal filler like Restylane.

This mimics the skin’s production of collagen to “plump up” and fill out lines or depressions in the skin.

It will restore your lost volume, so that your cheeks no longer look sunk in and you lose the haggard look. Your face will finally look as good as your super-toned body!

Hit ‘reply’ if you’re worried that exercise is leaving your skin dehydrated or haggard, and let’s talk about the best solution for you.

In the meanwhile, carry on exercising – just don’t let it harm your skin.

Warm regards, Ravi

PS. Every Wednesday we offer 30% off our vitamin IV infusions – so you may want to time your most strenuous workouts accordingly

Riverbanks Wellness is located in Harpenden, Hertfordshire LU2 9QS, 01582 762 877, www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk 92 FEBRUARY 2017

“If you find that you’re developing “runner’s face”, you need a gentle dermal filler like Restylane”

Dr Rav i Jain

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Bathe away your winter blues

words: Katie WrighT

A

s good for your mood as they are for your body, baths can become addictive in winter, but that’s no bad thing. The four essential ingredients for a super soak? You’ll need a candle, soothing music or a podcast, wine (or tea if you’re abstaining this month), and something delightfully fragranced to pour into the steaming tub. Turn your bathroom into a spa-like sanctuary with these bathing beauties...

ESSENTIAL OILS TempleSpa Drift Away Bathing and Massage Oil, available from templespa.com

The most luxurious way to scent your soak, bath oils dissipate in hot water, releasing the fragrance and creating a moisturising film that clings to your skin. They may be more expensive, but you only need a splash, and the potent aroma of essential oils can be invigorating (citrus and ginger) or slumberinducing (lavender works wonders before bed).

TempleSpa Drift Away Bathing and Massage Oil, £25 (www.templespa.com); Neom Energy Burst Bath & Shower Drops, £40 (www.neomorganics.com); This Works Deep Sleep Bath Oil, £80 (www.thisworks.com)

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SPRINKLING OF SALT If soothing aching limbs and cold symptoms is your top priority in the tub, bath salts are what you need. A capful of the clever crystals in a hot bath will relieve muscle tension, plus the salt draws out moisture to reduce bloating (result!), while the vapours help clear airways.

It’s a match made in technicolour heaven: Clinique Mandara Spa Oriental has teamed up with Crayola to bring you 10 lip balm Retreat Bath Salts Chubby Sticks in crayon-bright shades, like Mango with Cedarwood Tango and Mauvelous. Available in full size, £17.50 and Sweet Orange, each, or a box of eight adorable minis, £35, that £8, Sainsbury’s evokes the childhood joy of opening a fresh (www.sainsburys. pack of crayons. co.uk); Kneipp Clinique Crayola Chubby Stick Eucalyptus Cold & Moisturizing Lip Colour Balm Flu Mineral Bath Salt, in Razzmatazz, £17.50 (www. £8.95 (FeelUnique.com); clinique.co.uk)Eau de Parfum, Bloomtown Botanicals £48 for 50ml, Boots The Woods Pink Himalayan (www.boots.com) Bath Salts, £10 (Etsy.com)

Buy it now

WHEN IN FOAM...

For the ultimate in relaxation, a frothy bubble bath

Kneipp Eucalyptus Cold and Flu Mineral Bath Salt, available from FeelUnique.com Mandara Spa Oriental Retreat Bath Salts with Cedarwood and Sweet Orange, available from sainsburys.co.uk

his Works Deep Sleep Bath Oil, available from thisworks.com

Lollia Dream White Tea and Honeysuckle Bubbling Bath, available from CuratedLiving.co.uk

PA Photo/thinkstockphotos. All photos courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Soaper Duper Shea Butter Body Butter with Tahiti Monoi, Macadamia Oil and Pressed Vanilla Pods, available from tesco.com Liz Earle Superskin Body Cream, available from lizearle.com

will make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud.

Lavish, oil-infused bath foams offer skin-softening properties too - but if you’re feeling the pinch this month, cheap-as-chips bubble bath will do the trick.

Lollia Dream White Tea & Honeysuckle Bubbling Bath, £59 (CuratedLiving.co.uk); Humble Bath Honey Rose & Frankincense, £12, Waitrose (www.waitrose.com)Little Soap Company Pure English Lavender Bubble Bath and Pure Rose Geranium Bubble Bath, £5.99 each (www.littlesoapcompany.co.uk)

MAGIC LOTIONS Prolong that post-bath Zen by lathering up with a body lotion - particularly important if you’re partial to a piping hot soak that can leave your skin dry Gourmand scents, like vanilla and tonka bean, are real mood-boosters, while ingredients like shea butter and argan oil will soften and restore moisture.

Liz Earle Superskin Body Cream, £33 (www. lizearle.com); Soaper Duper Shea Butter Body Butter with Tahiti Monoi, Macadamia Oil & Pressed Vanilla Pods, £10, Tesco (www.tesco.com)

FEBRUARY 2017 95

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H EALTH & BEAUTY

Troublesome tinnitus?

There is help at hand

I

t’s Tinnitus Awareness Week from 6th – 12th February and tinnitus expert Mrs Fiona Bateson, from Spire Harpenden Hospital, wants to shout it from the rooftops that tinnitus doesn’t have to be troublesome and there are treatments available to help you reduce it and the effects it has on your life.

“In the UK about 10 per cent of the population have tinnitus and one per cent have such intrusive tinnitus that it severely affects their quality of life.”

“It can keep you awake at night, limit your ability to concentrate and make you tense and irritable, having an impact not only on you but also on your relationships with your family and friends.”

Tinnitus has no respect for age or sex, even children can suffer with tinnitus. “Although children’s hearing may be normal when tested, having an irritating noise, constantly causing distraction, can have a severe impact on children’s education, their mood, their sleep and their relationships with friends and family. Tinnitus makes no allowance for the busy day you have ahead of you or the good night’s sleep you need.”

Fiona, Clinical Audiologist at Spire Harpenden Hospital, says “I have many patients who come to see me for help with this very frustrating condition.

Often when I first meet them they, or their parents, comment that they thought there were no treatments for tinnitus and nothing could be done to help. It’s Tinnitus Awareness Week next week and I want to tell all sufferers in Hertfordshire that there are treatments available for tinnitus so you don’t need to just ‘put up with it’ anymore.”

Tinnitus noises vary and can sound like a banging; whistling; rushing; high tones; low tones and vary in volume often being louder in the afternoon or evenings when patients are tired.

“Getting help is very important but patients can do one thing that will start to minimise their tinnitus and that is to never be in silence.

Silence is a tinnitus patient’s biggest enemy but unfortunately they often prefer silence as they feel their ears are resting, somehow trying to calm the tinnitus down. Having comfortable continuous noise on in the background e.g. music, radio etc. will distract your brain away from tinnitus and make it easier to cope with.”

There are a variety of reasons why tinnitus starts but whatever the reason there is treatment available and sufferers often seem unaware of that.”

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FREE tinnitus event What is Tinnitus Retraining Therapy?

Tinnitus Retraining Therapy is used very successfully with patients and as every patient is different, their treatment has to be tailored to suit their individual needs. It involves a very in-depth history taking, dietary changes, sleep improvement tactics and in some cases where a hearing loss is present, hearing aids and sound enrichment programmes.

Fiona Bateson practices at Spire Harpenden Hospital. To book an appointment or for more information call Spire Harpenden Hospital on 01582 714 420 or visit www.spireharpenden.com

Mrs Fiona Bateson

For Tinnitus Awareness Week Mrs Fiona Bateson, an experienced Clinical Audiologist at Spire Harpenden Hospital, will be giving a free talk about the causes, diagnosis, and treatments available to help you reduce and manage your tinnitus. Listen to the expert and ask your questions at Spire Harpenden Hospital on Thursday 9th February at 7.15pm.

Places are limited so please call Mrs Bateson’s Secretary on 01462 812 975 to reserve your place.

Complementary refreshments will be provided.

H EALTH & BEAUTY

PRAISED FOR PATIENT CARE It’s official: Spire Harpenden Hospital rated “Good” by the Care Quality Commission

Spire Harpenden Hospital were praised for their patient centred care in their recently published CQC report, with their medical services singled out as “outstanding”

of the whole team. I am particularly proud that our medical services received an “outstanding”, the highest rating given by the CQC. The report highlights how much we care, both for our patients and also those that deliver services.”

Generally, hospital food can be an area of criticism; however, the report praised Spire Harpenden’s food for providing a “range of choices for patients”, with dietary needs being met. This reaffirms the high quality catering services, that were given a 5 (the highest rating) by the food standards authority in August 2016.

The hospital acted quickly on all issues that the CQC brought to its attention, and the full report can be read on the CQC website, www.cqc.org.uk.

The report includes quotes from patients who were interviewed by the inspectors. Patients said that “nothing was too much trouble” and that they “found staff to be caring and compassionate at all times”. In fact, the report found that “all patients we spoke with were complimentary of the staff and

“An area the inspectors focussed on was medical services; in particular the Macmillan accredited chemotherapy service on Heartwood ward.

This received an “outstanding” rating”

S

pire Harpenden Hospital received a “Good” rating as a result of the two day inspection, with quality and safety “the top priority”. Julia Salmon, Hospital Director is delighted with the news; “I am very proud and fortunate to lead such a hardworking and dedicated team. I feel that this report reflects the fact that our patients are at the heart of what we do.”

An area the inspectors focussed on was medical services; in particular the Macmillan accredited chemotherapy service on Heartwood ward. This received an “outstanding” rating. The report praises the patient centred care led by consultants, which is at the heart of Spire Harpenden’s values. Nurses feel that they have time to spend with patients and their relatives, supporting their needs.

Matron, Cathie Hardie said “The results of our inspection are fantastic, and reflect the hard work

The senior management team, from left: Cathie Hardie, Matron and Head of Clinical Service; Chloe Senneck, Head of Sales and Marketing; Julia Salmon, Hospital Director; Sushil Vekeria, Finance and Commercial manager

100 FEBRUARY 2017

the hospital.” These satisfied patients reflect Spire Harpenden’s 2016 patient satisfaction results which showed that 99% of patients would recommend Spire Harpenden to their friends and family.

Not only was patient care analysed by the inspectors, staff were also interviewed about their feelings towards the management of the hospital.

The report found that “Staff felt that they were working in a supportive environment” and that “the Hospital Director and Matron were highly visible and very approachable.”

To find out more please call the team on 01582 714 420 or visit the website www.spireharpenden.com Spire Harpenden Hospital, Ambrose Lane, Harpenden, AL5 4BP

NOW RECRUITING for clinical positions Apply online at www.spirehealthcare.com/ recruitment Spire Harpenden Hospital

LOOK AND FEEL FABULOUS With OUr SpEciAL OFFEr tO yOU ENjOy 90 miNUtES OF trEAtmENtS thAt WiLL mAKE yOU LOOK AND FEEL FABULOUS thiS NEW yEAr • VITAMIN B12 SHOT Give your immune system some much needed tLc with a vitamin B12 booster shot • HYDRAFACIAL Eliminate the excess of the party season with our red carpet ready facial • DERMALUX Brighten your skin and your day with our skin and energy boosting treatment

this perfection combination is available to life readers at a reduced rate of just £150 when you mention the offer at time of booking. Offer expires 28 February 2017

The Coach House, Pipers Lane, Harpenden, AL5 1AJ t: 01582 822000 e: info@harpendenskinclinic.com www.harpendenskinclinic.com

HOuse & garden

– A collection of Hertfordshire’s finest interior companies, plus stunning homes for sale in the area – i ma g e : Beve r ley Ba r n e t t I n t e r i o r De s i g n e r

H OUSE & GARDEN

Hawk Interiors celebrates ten Years

A

milestone is fast approaching for Hertfordshire based Hawk Interiors as it celebrates its 10 year anniversary later this year.

Providing beautiful kitchen and bathroom designs, with the addition of interior design and build services, Hawk Interiors specialise in creating exceptional spaces in the homes around Hertfordshire.

Established in 2007 by Design Director, Andrew Morton and soon after partnering with Project Manager Liam Simmons, the company has gone from strength to strength. Their first showroom was set up in a converted barn in Gaddesden Row, Hemel Hempstead selling the quality kitchens

“We don’t just sell a kitchen or bathroom; we deliver a focused client experience, priding ourselves on our collaborative approach and will manage your project from concept to completion”

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and bathrooms that Hawk are still known for today. In 2013 the company opened a second showroom in Harpenden and now, a further four successful years later, Hawk Interiors is set to open a third showroom covering two floors in St Albans this summer.

Andrew says, “It has been an incredible 10 years during which Hawk Interiors has developed and evolved into the leading kitchen and bathroom company we are today. Due to such success it was the perfect time to open a third showroom in St. Albans, a place where we can see the business flourishing even further” Andrew puts the success of Hawk Interiors down to the fact “We don’t just sell a kitchen or bathroom; we deliver a focused client experience, priding ourselves on our collaborative approach and will manage your project from concept to completion. Having an eye for design, passion, and flair, coupled with the ability to deliver no matter what it takes is what sets us apart. We offer a customer experience that is unlike any other local company and a first-class service.”

Offering kitchen brands that are known and trusted such as Neptune, Rotpunkt Kuchen and 1909, alongside the market leaders in bathrooms such as Villeroy & Boch, Grohe and Neptune, quality design is at the heart of Hawk’s business.

In celebration of their 10 year milestone, Hawk Interiors 4000sqft Gaddesden row showroom will play host to its 10th Birthday Party on Saturday 1st July. With its beautiful rural farm setting, a BBQ, magician, face painting and more, the event will be one for all the family.

MORE INFORMATION Look out for more information on the event soon on the Hawk Interiors Facebook page www.facebook.com/hawkinteriors

To find out more about Hawk Interiors services visit the website at www.hawkinteriors.co.uk or call on 01442 842634 (Gaddesden Row) or 01582 760088 (Harpenden)

Hawk Interiors, Oaklands Farm, Bradden Lane, Gaddesden Row, Herts HP2 6JB. www.hawkinteriors.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

L A TEST NEWS FRO M

BEVERLEY BARNETT INTERIOR DESIGNER

B

everley Barnett’s expertise is in creating beautiful homes, ensuring they reflect the owners’ personality and lifestyle in their own way. With a career that started with Colefax & Fowler, Beverley’s business has been established for over 30 years within the world of Interior Design.

A lifelong member of the BIID, her experience and excellence is apparent with every completed project. Beverley takes on the role of project manager coordinating all the tradesmen, ensuring that the end result for your home is an extension of your personality. Understanding her clients’ wishes is key and an integral part of Beverley’s continued success.

108 FEBRUARY 2017

“A lifelong member of the BIID, her experience and excellence is apparent with every completed project”

Beverley now has added to her team of designers, bringing further skills to the table, enabling interior architectural design drawings to be supplied. This encompasses space planning, power, AV and lighting layouts. It also allows for bespoke pieces to be created, drafting detailed drawings to form part of the projects tender and construction package - whether it be a staircase, the front door or a dining table.

These services, coupled with Beverley’s inherent talents in selecting just the right choice of fabrics, colours and textures, provide a service that is second to none.

The significance of the right lighting is a major part of any project, whether it be in the bedroom, bathroom or living areas; Beverley will steer you through this potential minefield with ease. Beverley and her team always look at how to maximise light and space whilst keeping to the character of both the owner and their property.

The dilemma of flooring; what to choose?

Bathrooms or wet rooms? Freestanding or fitted kitchens? Beverley Barnett will hold your hand and ensure the transformation meets with your total approval. From the very first meeting to the end result, you realise that you are in safe hands and can relax with the confidence that your dream home will become a reality.

For a pleasurable experience when transforming your home, speak to Beverley in person on 01923 857029; www.beverleybarnett.co.uk

beverley barnett INTERIOR DESIGNER

Telephone: 01923 857029 www.beverleybarnett.co.uk

H OUSE & GARDEN

Why every UK homeowner should know about Permitted Development Rights

I

n England Permitted Development Rights (often referred to as “PD” Rights) where they are still in force, or not already all used up, allow UK homeowners to improve and extend their homes without the need to seek a specific planning permission.

However, don’t get too excited, as many more modern properties have had their PD Rights withdrawn retrospectively either by their Local Council or by the Developer who built their home in a deal done by them with your Local Planning Department in order for them to be able to build more houses on the same site.

Also previous owners have sometimes already extended a property to the maximum allowed

110 FEBRUARY 2017

under Permitted Development. For example semi-detached and terraced houses can put a conservatory on the rear of their homes with a projection from the rear wall of up to 3m if the PD rights are intact. If not, then a planning application will be required before one can be legally built.

Before even replacing windows, doors, adding a porch, conservatory or an extension, it is wise to check that you can do so on your particular property even if you own it outright.

For example if your property is a flat in a residential block of flats or in a conservation area or area of outstanding natural beauty, or is a Listed Building, you are not legally permitted to replace any windows or doors or add any structure without

“Previous owners have sometimes already extended a property to the maximum allowed under Permitted Development”

first obtaining planning permission.

This may come as a bit of a shock to flat owners, as even if their Management Company organise the replacement windows, they are not allowed to do so without getting planning approval from the Local Council first.

However UK homeowners (excluding flat owners unfortunately) can perform certain types of work without needing to apply for planning permission.

These are called “permitted development rights”.

They derive from a general planning permission granted not by the local authority but by the British Parliament. Sadly as just mentioned, the permitted development rights which apply to many common projects for houses do not apply to flats, maisonettes or other buildings. Similarly, commercial properties have different permitted development rights to dwellings.

In some areas of the country, known generally as ‘designated areas’, permitted development rights are more restricted, such as in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or a World Heritage Site or in a Conservation Area. If this is the case for your property you will need to apply for planning permission for certain types of work which do not need an application in other areas. There are also different additional requirements if the property is a listed building.

The UK Governments Planning Portal’s general advice is that you should contact your local planning authority and discuss your proposal before any work begins. This may or may not be a free service. Your Local Authority will be able to inform you of any reason why the development may not be permitted and if you need to apply for planning permission for all or part of the work. Sometimes local authorities require written submissions before being prepared even to look at a potential project, and many now charge a fee to ask them such questions.

It is also worth noting that your local planning authority may have removed some of your permitted development rights by issuing an ‘Article 4’ direction. This will mean that you have to submit a planning application for work which normally does not need one (as is the case in some areas of Welwyn Garden City in Hertfordshire for example). Article 4 directions are made when the character of an area of acknowledged importance would be threatened by over development. They are most common in conservation areas. You will

“The UK Governments Planning Portal’s general advice is that you should contact your local planning authority and discuss your proposal before any work begins”

probably know if your property is affected by such a direction, but do check with your local planning authority if you are not sure.

There are an awful lot of rules surrounding permitted development, planning and Building Regulations if you are looking to make additions or changes to your property, so it is sensible to partner with firms experienced in dealing with these matters so that you can be as sure as you can the advice you are given is accurate. For example glass extensions such as conservatories or orangeries (including previous extensions) and other buildings must not exceed 50% of the curtilage of your whole property. This limit includes outbuildings. Also as a general rule homeowners are not permitted to build an extension onto the front of their house if it faces a road without planning permission, as usually local authorities expect extensions to be put on the rear of a property.

Homeowners in England are permitted to add a porch (if not in a Conservation Area etc.) up to a maximum of 3 square metres (external measurements) under Permitted Development, so it really is very important before buying a house or before making changes to a house to establish what PD Rights are still intact (if any). The bottom line is that if there are insufficient Permitted Development Rights to undertake the project you have in mind, you will need planning permission, and unless it would be deemed a temporary structure (like a conservatory), you will also probably need to submit a Building Regulations Application.

The most a homeowner can extend beyond the original back wall of their house without planning under Permitted Development is 3 metres if it is a terraced or semi-detached property, or 4 metres if their property is detached. It is not possible therefore to have a conservatory on the back of an extension that projects beyond these limits without planning permission.

To find out more about the potential options on your particular property, along with free professional advice, why not ask family owned and run independent double glazing manufacturers and installers Hazlemere Windows for a free no-obligation consultation with one of their experienced experts by calling 01727 238658 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk FEBRUARY 2017 111

H OUSE & GARDEN

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H OUSE & GARDEN

Love the home you have

WORDS: Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association

L

et’s face it, our homes, just like our bodies, often leave a lot to be desired, and it’s easy to get dispirited about those lumps and bumps or spaces that don’t match our decor dreams.

So what a relief to find ‘imperfect’ interiors - the ones most of us have - can be improved if not transformed, and all it really takes is a shake-up in our attitude.

“Most people I know have a long list of reasons why their home isn’t perfect,” says interiors stylist Emily Henson, author of Life Unstyled: How To Embrace Imperfection And Create A Home You Love.

“There can be all sorts of reasons for that.

Perhaps they’re renting and can’t make their own mark, there isn’t a lot of cash to spare for decorating, the space is too small or there isn’t enough storage. Actually, few of us feel our home fulfils every need - and let’s be honest, that’s a pretty tall order anyway.”

Instead of whingeing, Henson advises rebelling, by viewing “those spotless, clutter-free interiors” we envy in magazines and blogs as “a bit of a fiction and an unreal fantasy”, and instead revelling in our own style - flaws and all.

“It’s time to celebrate the beauty of imperfect interiors and overhaul your approach, so you see the opportunities rather than the problems. Instead of lamenting the fact you can’t warm yourself by your defunct fireplace, why not fill it with flowers and candles and congratulate yourself on your creativity?” declares Henson, who literally fizzes with energy and positivity.

“It’s all about breaking the rules and finding your own way in the world of interiors. I’ve always liked doing things my own way when it comes to my home, and not concerning myself too much with predictions for next year’s trend, or the right way

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to hang curtains,” she adds. “Many of the home owners I met while writing the book had the guts to dismiss the traditional way of doing things. One couple painted only half a wall, to expose the patina and beauty of the raw plaster above, while another used old museum archive units for storage. They defied convention, and the result was stand-out spaces.”

Most of us have those bugbears - an unsightly tangle of wires under a desk, a fridge plastered with bills and letters from school, a messy pile of books by the bed - but Henson promises “making the most of what you’ve got, a little re-arrangement, including distracting splashes of colour, and upcycling existing items will all help the visual story of your home to be pleasing and interesting”.

“Also, in reality, a home’s never ‘done’ because

“Most of us have those bugbears - an unsightly tangle of wires under a desk, a fridge plastered with bills and letters from school, a messy pile of books by the bed”

H OUSE & GARDEN

our needs and tastes are always changing,” Henson notes, “so let it evolve, take pleasure in that and you could suddenly realise it’s perfectly suited to you.”

FIX THE FLAWS Here are Henson’s top tips for transforming how you see your ‘imperfect’ home...

Keep a collection of small decorative pots and tins for all the clutter which clogs up surfaces - from coins, batteries and rubber bands, to pens, paper clips and buttons. Once in a while, empty, sort and put away. In the meantime, let it go.

Decoupage is an interesting alternative to painting for bookshelves. Choose pages from books or magazines which you find appeal, wrap the shelves in them, then secure them with PVA glue and varnish for a clean, smooth finish.

It’s so easy to accumulate ‘stuff’ which can be displayed on open shelves or glass-fronted cabinets, but don’t feel you have to have everything on display at once. “I rotate collections as my mood changes and as I acquire new bits, and stash the rest in storage bins.”

Give over one wall to a colourful collection of art.

Ensure the display is cohesive by grouping them by theme, colour or material. Display boxes of crayons, spools of cotton thread, anything which fits your theme, because variety will add life to a collection.

A room with an interesting paint treatment can get away with a multitude of sins - the eye is distracted from the clutter and drawn to whatever inspired paint job you can think up. Make a feature of stairs, which often tend to be overlooked but are generally the first thing you see when you enter a home. Paint in a rainbow of colours and, for extra embellishment, decorate with stickers, from numerals to words. Alternatively, spray paint the legs of a stool or chair, or create an intricate design on a blank wall.

Refresh jaded furniture by taking it to a local car body shop, which can give it a spray in a jiffy. This will cover chips or damage and give an up-lift to an old piece that might have been destined for the junk yard.

If you’re in a rented home where decorating’s not allowed, give a lift to a dull wall by suspending a single length of wallpaper with an eye-catching design or pattern. Alternatively, wallpaper a large piece of plywood and lean up against a wall, perhaps behind a sofa or bed, for an appealing focal point.

Every home - including children’s rooms - should have an area to tack up anything and everything which inspires, from photos and postcards, to cuttings from magazines or fabric swatches. They’ll offer a snapshot glimpse of your 118 FEBRUARY 2017

likes. Use a white board or cork board, or paint a square on a wall to designate an area - simply measure an area, mark the outline in masking tape and then paint within.

Wooden crates can be turned into super storage solutions, if given a light sanding and sprayed with paint. Choose bright primary colours for impact, and ramp up the colour by painting the floor, a cheap and easy way to conceal scuffed wood or outdated tiles.

In this disposable age, where the lifespan of furniture is getting shorter and shorter, anything we can save from landfill is a bonus. “Creativity before consumption - the pleasure of making something new from something old - gives me huge satisfaction and personalises my home, as I have genuinely unique pieces. In homes I’ve visited, I’ve seen brilliant chunky shelves made from old wooden planks, pendants created by layering decorative papier mache over old metal pendants, which have been left to dry and removed to reveal a distinctive new shade.”

Life Unstyled: How To Embrace Imperfection And Create A Home You Love by Emily Henson, photography by Debi Treloar, is published by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £19.99. Available now.

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H OUSE & GARDEN PROPERTY

Uphill Road, Mill Hill MILL HILL, NW7

A

n exceptional home situated on arguably the most prestigious road in Mill Hill.

Finished in 2013, this magnificent property offers substantial and refined accommodation luxurious fittings and contemporary technology and is situated in a prime location. Set behind electronically operated gates, the property comprises well proportioned and stylish contemporary accommodation arranged over three floors.

A particularly fine property designed by leading Totteridge architect, Andrew Scott Associates with interior design by Eileen Johnson of Hampstead.

It is a collaboration which has created an appealing home with great attention to details apparent throughout.

Stunning reception atrium four reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast/dining room. master bedroom suite with balcony, dual dressing rooms and an en suite bathroom. 6 further bedrooms, 4 further

bath/shower rooms, utility room, laundry room, staff room, integral garage, landscaped gardens with artificial grass tennis court.

Guide Price ÂŁ5,250,000

Totteridge Office 020 8445 3694

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HigH BarneT

from £895,000

Preview Launch 11th Feb Book Your Appointment Now Just 6 New Build Semi Detached Houses 4 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms Close to local transport

new Homes office 020 8441 9555

SALES OFFICES AT: BARNET 020 8449 3383 TOTTERIDGE 020 8445 3694 HADLEY WOOD 020 8440 9797 BROOKMANS PARK 01707 661144 RADLETT 01923 604321 NEW HOMES SHOWCASE HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9555 PREMIER LETTINGS HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9796

Associated Offices in Mayfair, Moscow, China, USA & Monaco

From Cottages to Country Estates

FOR OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.STATONS.COM

ToTTeridge, LoNdoN, N20

gUide Price ÂŁ4,500,000

A truly unique, award winning, contemporary home set in the desirable North London location of Totteridge. Meadow View has been sympathetically designed and hand crafted, creating a spacious home that combines luxury with modern living.

Located in a select premier cul-de-sac and having been completed to the highest standard of finish and design, with immense attention to detail, this 6 bedroom, 5 bathroom property extends to 7,300sq ft over 3 floors. This magnificent contemporary home, which is like a piece of art, is both ideal for family living and entertaining on a grand scale and offers many individual features including its own entertainment room/night club with bar, cinema room, treatment room and spa.

Being just 10 miles from Central London, Totteridge is surrounded by open greenbelt countryside and offers a wealth of sporting facilities including South Herts Golf Club, Totteridge Tennis and Cricket Clubs, horse riding and two nature reserves.

Totteridge underground station (Northern Line) is easily accessible as is the multiple shopping centre at Whetstone.

New Homes office 020 8441 9555 SALES OFFICES AT: BARNET 020 8449 3383 TOTTERIDGE 020 8445 3694 HADLEY WOOD 020 8440 9797 BROOKMANS PARK 01707 661144 RADLETT 01923 604321 NEW HOMES SHOWCASE HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9555 PREMIER LETTINGS HADLEY GREEN 020 8441 9796

Associated Offices in Mayfair, Moscow, China, USA & Monaco

silver

GOLD

london estate agency

london lettings agency

2016

me

Pikes Cottages, Barnet, en5

A four double bedroom, two reception room cottage dating back to 1820 with integral garage and off street parking.

d i u m a g en c y

2016

me dium agency

£875,000 Freehold

the oWners love…

We’ve notiCeD…

We love the garden where we can hear the birds sing”

Ideally located just over a mile away from High Barnet Underground Station (Northern Line) with good road links to M25, A1 and North Circular.

“It is so convenient to have a bus-stop just a few feet away” “Sometimes we sit at the breakfast bar in the dark to gaze at the stars”

Planning permission has been granted for a rear extension to provide a further reception room or addition to the existing lounge.

EPC Rating – D

Contact Susan Bradford at our Barnet office on 0208 440 2444

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

silver

GOLD

london estate agency

london lettings agency

2016

me

Dollis avenue, ChurCh enD, n3

A five bedroom, two bathroom semi-detached family home.

d i u m a g en c y

2016

me dium agency

£1,750,000 Freehold

the oWners love…

We’ve notiCeD…

“Dollis Avenue has always been regarded as one of if not the most prestigious road in Finchley”

Previously there has been planning permission granted to extend the house - please call for further details.

“It’s a large family home with vast rooms in a very quiet street”

EPC Rating - F

“The location is minutes from everything you might need - Shops, restaurants, the tube and an array of buses”

Contact Scott Henderson at our Finchley Central office on 020 8346 0102

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

silver

GOLD

london estate agency

london lettings agency

2016

me

oakleigh avenue, Whetstone, n20

A well-maintained five bedroom detached home with four bathrooms and off street parking.

d i u m a g en c y

2016

me dium agency

£1,600,000 FREEHoLD

the oWners love…

We’ve notiCeD…

“We are blessed with such wonderful neighbours.

Always helpful, friendly and considerate”

The master bedroom takes up the whole top floor and has a great en-suite.

“It’s such a spacious house with lots of natural light flowing through, it puts a spring in your step”

The position of this property is great for easy access to primary and secondary schools as well as local transportation, shops and restaurants.

“We work in town so it was important to have transportation within walking distance and we are blessed to have both over ground and tube stations”

Contact Stewart Willerton at our Whetstone office on 020 8446 2111

EPC Rating – E

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

silver

GOLD

london estate agency

london lettings agency

2016

me

avonDale avenue, north FinChley, n12

A five bedroom semi-detached house in Woodside Park, located moments from North Finchley amenities.

d i u m a g en c y

2016

me dium agency

£1,040,000 FREEHoLD

the oWners love…

We’ve notiCeD…

“We have thoroughly loved the neighbourhood over the past 20 years”

The property is located close to excellent local schools.

“We have entertained a lot and the space downstairs enables us to have many guests at once”

Avondale Avenue is excellently located in Woodside Park for public transport with buses available from the nearby Argyle Road and Woodside Park station (Northern Line) within a quarter of a mile.

“We love that the house is light and bright with large rooms and high ceilings”

Contact Craig Thompkins at our North Finchley office on 020 8445 2222

EPC Rating – E

www.martyngerrard.co.uk