Life Magazines (Hertfordshire editions) March 2022

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Radlett Premier Bathrooms

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stablished in 1982, Thompson’s Gallery is family run and specialises in Contemporary & Modern British painting and sculpture. Harpenden is an extension of two other established galleries in Aldeburgh, Suffolk and Marylebone, London. Like our other locations, we exhibit a wide selection of carefully selected Contemporary and Modern British artworks by our established artists while also introducing new and emerging talents to the Hertfordshire area.

Hatfield Park & Gardens will open for the 2022 season from Saturday 2nd April. Visitors can enjoy the first rays of spring sunshine as they stroll around the picture perfect Gardens dating from the early 17th Century when Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants from all over Europe for his new home. The trees, bulbs, plants and fruit trees, which had never been grown before in England, have crafted the inspiring and fragrant gardens you can explore today.

Treat that special someone to a romantic getaway at Sopwell House, found deep within the rolling Hertfordshire hills. Focusing on indulgence and seclusion, Sopwell House has plenty of space to escape, terraces to dine on and Cottonmill Spa to disappear into.

Faye Manning Editor

EDITOR FAYE MANNING EDITORIAL ASSISTANT KATIE MILLER SUB EDITOR NICHOLAS PETER

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER KELLY PAULING DESIGN & PRODUCTION LISA WADE SALES PRUVEE PATEL ACCOUNTS KATHY MANNING, ANDREE GEORGIOU DIRECTORS RORY SMITH, PATRICK SMITH

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

LOVE LOCAL – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – I M A G E : H AT F I E L D H O U S E

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13 MARCH THE EAST HERTS WEDDING FAIR AT WARE PRIORY Set in seven acres of picturesque riverside gardens, Ware Priory is the ideal wedding venue. The wedding fair will feature some of the leading companies from East Hertfordshire and beyond covering every aspect of your wedding. The knowledgeable staff from Ware Priory will be present to answer any questions and can offer exclusive use of the wedding venue so you, your partner, your family and friends can enjoy the celebration without any interruption. They will have some beautiful show tables dressed for you to view. Open 11am - 3pm Ware Priory Hertfordshire SG12 9AL Image: Ware Priory

[EVENTS]

THE CALENDAR 22 MARCH RSPB ILLUSTRATED TALK Potters Bar and Barnet RSPB Group, evening meetings - non members welcome. Borneo - speaker Bruce Bennett. A search for orangutans in the wild with many other primates, birds and butterflies in the amazing vegetation of the rainforest.

Church hall at Our Lady and St Vincent Church, 243 Mutton Lane, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire EN6 2AT

12 MARCH 2022

12 APRIL ECHEA STRING QUARTET Enjoy an evening of music!

The Echea String Quartet perform: String Quartet Op.76 No 5in D major - Haydn.

Quartettsatz - Schubert. String Quartet Op.44 No 3 in EB major - Mendelssohn. On arrival guests will all receive a welcome drink and canapes in the Garden Room of the Manor House.

The concert is held in Chenies Church and then supper is served in the Garden Room. Prices: £60 including a delicious supper with wine. Arrival time is 7pm for a 7.45pm start.

Chenies Manor, Chenies, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 6ER

23 MARCH MONTANA - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS A peaceful large country garden planted with rare trees, unusual flowering shrubs and perennials under planted with thousands of bulbs; kitchen garden edged by sweet peas; shade loving plants and small meadow. A gate leads to a mixed deciduous wood with level paths, a large fernery planted in an old clay pit and an avenue of daffodils and acers. Lots of seats to enjoy the atmosphere. Small apiary.

Montana, Cholesbury, Hertfordshire HP23 6NA

9 APRIL CHIPPERFIELD CHORAL SOCIETY SPRING CONCERT At our Spring Concert we have a lovely mixed programme which includes Faure’s Requiem and the Cantique de Jean Racine.

St John’s Church, Boxmoor, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP1 1JY

26-27 MARCH 19 MARCH HATFIELD HOUSE WEST GARDEN - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS Visitors can enjoy the spring bulbs in the lime walk, sundial garden and view the famous Old Palace garden, childhood home of Queen Elizabeth I. The adjoining woodland garden is at its best in spring with masses of naturalised daffodils and bluebells. 11am -4pm.

Admission £11, Children £4. Open for charity.

Hatfield House West Garden, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 5HX

UNTIL 5 JUNE RIVER TOWN Discover how Hertford’s four rivers have shaped and developed how generations of people lived, worked and played. Illustrated by an eclectic wealth of collections. Free. Drop in!

Hertford Museum, 18 Bull Plain, Hertford, Hertfordshire SG14 1DT

WALKERN HALL - OPEN GARDEN FOR NGS Walkern Hall is essentially a winter woodland garden. Set in 8 acres, the carpet of snowdrops and aconites is a constant source of wonder in Jan/Feb. This medieval hunting park is known more for its established trees such as the tulip trees and a magnificent London plane tree which dominates the garden. Following on in March and April is a stunning display of daffodils. and other spring bulbs. Admission £5, Children free. Home-made teas. Warming home-made soup and cakes.

Walkern Hall, Stevenage, Hertfordshire SG2 7JA

20 MARCH THE WEDDING FESTIVAL AT LUTON HOO THE WALLED GARDEN The Wedding Fair features leading wedding professionals from the local area and beyond, covering every aspect of your wedding including some you might not have considered!

The beautiful Conservatory and private Walled Garden are an idyllic setting for your wedding reception.

The Conservatory, Luton Hoo Walled Garden, Hertfordshire LU1 4L MARCH 2022 13

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About Thompson’s Gallery, Harpenden

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stablished in 1982, Thompson’s Gallery is family run and specialises in Contemporary & Modern British painting and sculpture. We pride ourselves in putting an informative and friendly face to art dealership, with over four decades of experience.

Harpenden is an extension of our two other established galleries in Aldeburgh, Suffolk and Marylebone, London. Like our other locations, we exhibit a wide selection of carefully selected Contemporary and Modern British artworks by our established artists while also introducing new and emerging talents to the Hertfordshire area.

Thompson’s Gallery, Harpenden opened its doors in early October 2021 and overlooks quaint Church Green. We are a five-minute walk from Harpenden train station and have plentiful on and off-street parking.

Introducing CALEDONIAN: The Scottish Exhibition Since the early 1990’s, Thompson’s Gallery has always had strong ties with the country north of our English border, and we believe there is no better time for a revival of Thompson’s historically popular ‘The Scottish Exhibition’, which we are excited to share with our clients to celebrate the opening of our newest gallery in Harpenden and as our first official, curated show. Once a staple in Thompson’s Gallery’s annual calendar, the Scottish Exhibition is a chance to showcase the very best in Scottish artistic talent.

This exhibition will be spotlighting our core list of Scottish artists which has come to exist 14 MARCH 2022

over the past forty years, plus an array of talents new to us. Staple artists such as Robert Kelsey DA MUniv PAI FRSA, Mike Healey, Peter King, Mhairi McGregor are featured, as well as new names such as Alex Malcolmson, Kim Scouller and Alice McMurrough - to name but a few.

CALEDONIAN boasts an eclectic mix of subject matter and styles, from depictions of well-known Caledonian coastal scenes, colourful still life and whimsical wonderlands, which are all united by an overarching, quintessentially Scottish feel and sensitivity.

‘CALEDONIAN: The Scottish Exhibition’ opens on Saturday 26th March, and runs until 17th April.

THE DETAILS Thompson’s Gallery Harpenden 13 Church Green Harpenden AL5 2TW thompsonsgallery.co.uk Monday to Saturday: 10:00 – 17:30 Sunday: 11:00 – 16:00 Email: enquiries@thompsonsgallery.co.uk Tel: (+44) 01582 329 932

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Molasses House: Coming to a wall near you

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olasses House opened its doors to critical acclaim in October 2021 bringing new and established talented artists to the extended Hertfordshire community.

The abundance and diversity of art available globally can be mesmerising and confusing.

Molasses House cuts through the clutter, presenting new contemporary artists alongside their more established counterparts.

Art can only be appreciated when one has time to immerse yourself and absorb the imagery before you. At Molasses House this could be the soothing palate of a Hannah Nijsten. The visual assault of

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Tommy Fiendish, or the more provocative scenes depicted by the infamous Jack Vettriano. Whatever your contemporary art interests you will not be disappointed by the constantly changing gallery selection.

A new name to the art scene is Jacob V Jordan, a local 15 year old, who Molasses House presented to the Harpenden community in November.

Raising money for the Alzheimer’s Society, all five works exhibited sold in two days in addition to Jacob picking up three commissions. ‘We felt it was important for Jacob’s unique talent to be exposed to a wider audience and we were delighted to provide an opportunity to support him by donating our services and space for this chosen charity’ says Barrie Woolston, Gallery Owner.

At Molasses House you can also see works by Dimitry Krestniy, a resident of Kyiv and worldrenowned hyperrealism artist. ‘I am in regular contact with Dimitry and its heart-breaking to hear about the reality of life in Ukraine. I would urge anyone passing the gallery to come and view Dimitry’s incredible work’ says Barrie.

As the summer months approach Molasses House will commence a series of ‘Meet the Artist’ events. Firstly, with Harpenden resident, Johnman in March and Tommy Fiendish over the weekend of 2nd/3rd April. For those wanting to attend the Tommy’s private viewing on Friday 1st April please register your interest on the Molasses House website asap!

3 Station Road, Harpenden AL5 4SA 01582 712222 molasseshouse.com

WE STAND WITH UKRAINE

Meet the Artist

Tommy Fiendish

Presenting a selection of his Original Work 2nd/3rd April 11am – 3pm

Private Viewing with Tommy Friday 1st April 6pm – 8pm RSVP info@molasseshouse.com 3 Station Road, Harpenden, Herts AL5 4SA 01582 712222 Molasseshouse.com

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John Ball:

Blue Plaque unveiled to commemorate leader of the Peasants’ Revolt

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Blue Plaque celebrating the life of John Ball, a leader of the Peasants’ Revolt, was officially unveiled by the St Albans Mayor, Cllr Edgar Hill, at a special ceremony open to the public, which took place at St Albans Museum + Gallery on Friday 25th February.

It is the first plaque to be presented by the Blue Plaques St Albans (BPSA) group which was set-up to commemorate famous citizens who have lived and worked in St Albans, with the aim of placing Blue Plaques on buildings associated with their lives. The initiative resembles the well-known blue plaque scheme run by English Heritage in London.

Blue Plaques St Albans is chaired by Professor Tim Boatswain of Conservation 50 and includes several local organisations, businesses and representatives from the St Albans area including St Albans City & District Council and St Albans BID, all working together to help make St Albans a vibrant and interesting place to live, work and visit.

Tim Boatswain, the Chairman, says: “Although we have some plaques in St Albans celebrating our famous men and women, they are 20 MARCH 2022

few and far between and there are many more people who should be commemorated, both for our community and visitors to enjoy and that’s why setting-up the Blue Plaques St Albans organisation was such an important initiative.

“We have identified and selected the first nominees, along with buildings and places associated with them, and we will be installing blue plaques to celebrate their connection with our great city- people include Sarah Churchill, the Duchess of Marlborough, and Stephen Hawking, the theoretical physicist, cosmologist and author.

Mandy McNeil of St Albans BID, says: “St Albans city centre businesses via the BID are delighted to support the BPSA. Thanks to the passion, dedication and perseverance of the incredible volunteer group over the past two years, the scheme will not only be a celebration of some of the unique residents in our rich history, but also a fantastic new attraction supporting our city’s visitor economy and footfall.”

Facebook: @blue-plaques-st-albans If you are interested in becoming involved or want to donate to Blue Plaques St Albans, please contact: blueplaquesstalbans@gmail.com or phone Tim Boatswain on +447873 586074

Top right: Museum + Gallery where the plaque was placed ©Tim Boatswain Above:John Ball Blue Plaque ©Robert Pankhurst; Top left: Artwork by E. BurneJones, April 1888, for the first book edition of William Morris’ A Dream of John Ball

Who was John Ball?

John Ball was a key leader in the Peasants’ Revolt in 1381.

Although the Revolt was ultimately unsuccessful it shook the whole country and nearly caused the unseating of King Richard II. With the influence of John Ball, the tenants and townsfolk of St Albans rose up against the King, broke into the jail, generally caused mayhem, and besieged St Albans Abbey.

John was also an English priest who was famous for his revolutionary sermons where he preached equality and freedom from oppression and he is known to have said: “When Adam delved and Eve span, Who was then the gentleman? From the beginning, all men by nature were created alike, and our bondage or servitude came in by the unjust oppression of naughty men.”

Following the failure of the Revolt, John Ball’s trial was held in Moot Hall in St Albans, which was demolished in 1572 and replaced by the 19th century Town Hall building, which is now St Albans Museum + Gallery. Ball was sentenced to death, offered the chance to repent but refusedhe was hung, drawn and quartered in the presence of King Richard II on 15 July 1381.

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HATFIELD PARK OPENS FOR A NEW SEASON

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atfield Park & Gardens will open for the 2022 season from Saturday 2nd April. Visitors can enjoy the first rays of spring sunshine as they stroll around the picture perfect Gardens dating from the early 17th Century when Robert Cecil employed John Tradescant the Elder to collect plants from all over Europe for his new home.

The trees, bulbs, plants and fruit trees, which had never been grown before in England, have crafted the inspiring and fragrant gardens you can explore today.

Wander around the Sundial Garden, West Parterre and Old Palace Garden adjoining the Tudor Palace each Thursday to Sunday. Trees will be coming in to leaf, daffodils will be in full bloom and our little Easter Bunnies will pop their heads up in the Woodland Walk. By the middle of April, Bluebells will be carpeting the upper section of our woodland garden.

Lord and Lady Salisbury’s private East Garden is also open to visitors each Thursday. This

part of the garden has elegant parterres, topiary and rare plants, which are a delight for the gardening enthusiast and for those wishing to spend a quiet time in idyllic surroundings.

Hatfield House itself will open to from 19th May – 29th August. Visitors can enjoy a house steeped in over 400 years of history. Built by Robert Cecil, in the grounds where Queen Elizabeth I spent much of her childhood, Hatfield House is home to centuries of historical treasures collected by the Cecil family.

Don’t miss our Early Bird offer of 20% if book before 1st April

The Stable Yard Explore the Stable Yard, an area of Hatfield House that used to house the Cecil family horses is now home to a cluster of independent boutiques and truly delicious dining. Fancy some shopping?

If you’re looking for a different retail experience, the Stable Yard at Hatfield House is not to be missed. With gifts, jewellery, arts and crafts and a range of services you won’t find on the high street, the Stable Yard is a unique browsing experience all of its own.

22 MARCH 2022

THE DETAILS Hatfield House, Garden, Park & Woodland Walks, Hatfield Park, Hatfield, Hertfordshire AL9 5HX

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EASTER AT PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK

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oin Paradise Wildlife Park voted as Hertfordshire’s No.1 Outdoor Attraction

by Trip Advisor this Easter as something big stomps in the World of Dinosaurs.

Come face to face as we reveal our newest and biggest Dinosaurs yet - if you are feeling brave enough! Egg-plore over 30 life-size, moving and roaring animatronic dinosaurs as you travel through time at one of the UK’s biggest and most spectacular animatronic dinosaur attractions.

Paradise is also home to over 800 exotic wild animals, from the biggest tiger species, Amur tigers to the world’s smallest known monkey the pygmy marmoset. Paradise even exhibits the largest anaconda on display in the UK and holds one of the best big cat collections in the country, so why not hop over into the World of Animals this Easter and enjoy all the animals in springtime.

Experience our newest area, the Land of the Tigers, in a whole new way through the opening of our Bamboo Kitchen. An Asian cuisine restaurant with 180 degrees viewing of the tiger territory.

This quick food service is an experience for everyone, and you will not want to miss out on it.

Paradise is also Europe’s leading wildlife park for animal experiences, you can meet our mischievous meerkats in Meet our Meerkat experience to hand feed one of our Amur Tigers

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in our Big Cat Experience. With the funds raised from these animal experiences going directly to the conservation and welfare of the animals in our care and in the wild.

Paradise Wildlife Park / The Zoological Society of Hertfordshire is situated 20 miles north of London, 7 miles from Junction 25 on the M25 and approximately 25 minutes from London Liverpool Street by rail.

For more information, please check out our website pwpark.com

“Paradise is also home to over 800 exotic wild animals, from the biggest tiger species, Amur tigers to the world’s smallest known monkey the pygmy marmoset”

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Merchant Taylors’ Prep School

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erchant Taylors’ Prep School was created in 2015 as part of the alliance that was forged between Northwood Prep and Merchant Taylors’ School to provide a through school for boys aged 3 to 18. This has enabled us to continue to provide excellent education whilst developing our partnership with Merchant Taylors’ School. Our school is vibrant and dynamic and our pupils are educated by professional staff that provide a nurturing environment. We aim to instil values, such as compassion and respect, and learning dispositions, such as perseverance and independence, at the same time as ensuring the highest standards of academic achievements.

We are proud that our school contains happy and confident pupils who are excited by the stimulating curriculum that we provide. Through these aims, we believe that education is about promoting intellectual curiosity in which pupils are motivated by and fully involved in their own learning. mtpn.org.uk

WHAT DRIVES THE ETHOS OF A SUCCESSFUL ALL-BOYS’ SCHOOL?

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t Bedford School, we seek to raise good people first and foremost; and then to allow them to flourish as academics, as sportsmen, as artists

26 MARCH 2022

and above all as themselves, in a supportive and ambitious atmosphere. We are dedicated to nurturing a wide variety of individual interests and developing them as far as boys can take them; but we are devoted to ensuring our boys love their childhood, because they only get it once. We aim for balanced, outward-looking, forward-thinking, kind and sociable young men who are comfortable in their own skins. Being in an all-boys environment as they develop through such an important stage of their lives is hugely beneficial in achieving this: all these qualities can be nurtured without inhibition and lived without awkwardness. Our boys feel they belong here and therefore feel able and keen to participate to the fullest.

Bedford School. Independent Boys’ School of the Year. That They Be Good Men. bedfordschool.org.uk

EDUC ATION

SAFE

HANDS Local independent day and boarding school in Bushey, St Margaret’s, has appointed Claire Weldon as its new Welfare Officer to provide tailored, professional support to pupils who are struggling with barriers to learning.

The impact of the pandemic has seen a significant rise in the number of children experiencing anxiety and other mental health concerns affecting their ability to learn in school.

Ms Weldon has worked with children and young people of all ages for many years now. Previously a primary school teacher, she also trained as a play specialist working with young people in and out of hospitals, using play as a therapeutic tool. She then worked in further education both teaching and providing pastoral and welfare support to college students.

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“I

’m delighted to have joined the team at St Margaret’s and am looking forward to working with our pupils.

For me, it has always been important to work in an environment that places children’s welfare at the heart of everything. On visiting St Margaret’s for the first time, its focus around providing quality pastoral care really shone through. Essentially, my role is to help any child who feels worried, upset or anxious in school,” said Ms Weldon.

As she progresses in her new role, Ms Weldon is also keen to ensure that pupils develop more clarity in understanding their own personal needs and that they are nurtured to advocate for themselves.

She added, “Pupils may have questions about the feelings they are experiencing or may find it hard to cope day to day. Ultimately, this impacts their ability to learn and to function at school.

Having the opportunity to talk these things through and to develop clear, coping strategies that they can use every day, is going to help them to rebuild confidence and resilience over time, so that they can achieve their goals.”

Lara Péchard, Head at St Margaret’s School commented on the appointment: “I’ve always been very passionate about the importance of providing the right care and professional support around pupil welfare. The more we can do to listen, support and equip children with the right tools to overcome their anxieties, the better. Our children have been through a lot in this last year or so and I am confident that in bringing Claire onto our team, we will continue to make positive strides forward.”

Ms Weldon’s role is to work with the pupils

throughout the school. This will involve providing age appropriate strategies. A child worrying about tests or exams will understand and process things very differently if they are 11 years old or 17 years old. The needs of every pupil will be different and these will be explored before an appropriate support package is developed and regularly reviewed with both the pupil and their family.

Many children and young people are experiencing anxiety about tests and exams and whilst this is, in the main, a normal part of growing up there will be a number of children who will sit public examinations or mocks in an exam setting for the very first time.

Finding strategies to help pupils cope with their anxiety in this area is key, and supporting pupils to see their achievements to date helps keep fears in check. When children realise what they have already achieved, they are able to recognise they already have many of the life skills they need to sit exams, and when there is an understanding that talent can be developed through hard work, support and strategy, this growth mindset can lead to achieving far more than they may have ever thought possible. stmargarets-school.org.uk

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ST COLUMBA’S COLLEGE collaboration between school and family. They assess each pupil’s attainment with care, ensuring they are both stretched and supported.

Pupils throughout the school are encouraged to take part in extra-curricular activities to learn new skills and develop interests. This includes residential trips, sports, LAMDA, music, young enterprise and mindfulness.

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t Columba’s College in St Albans is a coeducational Catholic independent school for ages 4 to 18. It welcomes families of all faith traditions.

Composed of some 800 students across the Prep and Senior Schools, St Columba’s is located on a single site on King Harry Lane, overlooking Verulamium Park and St Alban’s Abbey.

The Prep School, for boys and girls aged 4 to 11, is a happy place with excellent pastoral care, where each child is known, valued and treasured.

Richard McCann, Head of the Prep School, sums up the school’s distinctive ethos: “We’re a close-knit and happy family underpinned by strong moral values. At the heart of this are the three Cs of St Columba’s: Courage, Courtesy and Compassion.”

Always innovative, St Columba’s Prep School has recently introduced the Pre-senior Baccalaureate (PSB). The PSB is an assessment model that is centred on the development of lifelong skills, which are in tune with St Columba’s holistic approach to education.

Mr McCann says: “We strongly believe in an all-round holistic education that places the child at the centre and helps them reach their potential. We ensure that our children develop the values, skills and behaviours to flourish in an ever-changing world.”

St Columba’s emphasises that a happy child is a good learner, and that children thrive best when they are the focus of a warm and engaged

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THE DETAILS To find out more or to book a visit, you can visit the St Columba’s College website: stcolumbascollege.org

Courage.

Courtesy.

Compassion.

St Columba’s College An education of the head and heart Co-ed Independent Catholic day school for ages 4-18 in St Albans. We'd love to meet you!

Contact us to arrange a visit.

stcolumbascollege.org

Get in touch E admissions@stcolumbascollege.org T 01727 892040

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Fun and learning at Hertford Barns Day Nursery

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t the newly-refurbished Hertford Barns Day Nursery located in beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, practitioners are on a mission to give children the best possible start in life. At the setting on Cole Green, days are filled with exciting activities, planned around the personal interests of children and designed in line with Early Years Foundation Stage principles to ensure they are prepared with the knowledge and skills needed for their next steps. With stimulating learning spaces, state of the art ICT, toys and equipment, messy play stations and ‘role play’ areas, as well as focused classes to further teaching, each child from six weeks to nearly five years is able to immerse themselves in the vast learning opportunities on offer. From babies using recycled paper from the shredder for sensory activities, to older children creating bug hotels for insect observations and growing vegetables in the garden which are then used in meals by talented Nursery Chefs, children of all ages take part in a curriculum of eco-activities the whole year round.

The recent addition of a baby garden, complete with decking for warmer days and age-appropriate resources including a mud kitchen, helps to take play to new levels and encourage a lasting love of the outdoors. “Focusing on the children’s wellbeing and emotional needs has never been more important and time spent in nature always delivers. We have seen blossoming confidence, 32 MARCH 2022

concentration and social interaction as a result of our new facilities”, said Nursery Manager, Jeni Neville, who has 15 years’ experience in the sector.

Meanwhile, the bright and spacious classrooms are filled with purpose-built facilities such as a children’s shaker-style kitchen for cooking and baking activities, art tables to help inspire creativity and cosy corners for reading beloved storybooks.

Here pre-schoolers can also prepare for their next stages in education with a tailored school readiness programme, covering topics from self-care to phonics, where they can develop fundamental skills such as using cutlery and writing their names.

The nursery has recently gone ‘climate positive’ after saving more greenhouse gas emissions than it generates and is part of the employee-owned Childbase Partnership.

For more information contact Hertford Barns on 01707 392999 or email at hertfordbarns. nursery@childbase.com

“The recent addition of a baby garden, complete with decking for warmer days and age-appropriate resources including a mud kitchen, helps to take play to new levels and encourage a lasting love of the outdoors”

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Understanding how boys think, grow and learn!

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hy an all boys school?

There are of course obvious differences between the ways that boys and girls learn with significant research outlining the benefits of single-sex education, so of course, I can champion the merits for our all boys school. However, as a parent first and teacher second, for me it is not about Boys vs Co-ed, it is about finding the right environment for your son to flourish. Choosing the right school for your child doesn’t have to be an over-complicated decision. Ultimately, we all wish for our children to be happy, engaged and challenged, after all that is when we are all at our very best. I believe when you walk into a school you instantly feel if it is the right environment for your child.

I am proud to represent Aldwickbury as a dynamic and forward-thinking school but also an environment that retains and upholds traditional values. Our broad and balanced curriculum both in and outside the classroom allows boys the freedom to be themselves whilst ensuring they make excellent academic progress, preparing them for not only for the next steps of their education but for life.

I invite you and your family to come and visit and see the school in action. Please contact us to book onto our open morning or to arrange a personal visit. I look forward to welcoming you.

Paul Symes, Headmaster, Aldwickbury School aldwickbury.org.uk 34 MARCH 2022

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REMARKABLE YOUNG WOMEN: QUEENSWOOD’S ACADEMIC SCHOLARS

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he Academic Scholarship programme at Queenswood gives the academically gifted a sense of identity, pride and additional purpose as they reach towards ever higher levels of achievement. We look for, and encourage, intellectual curiosity, debate and a willingness to engage with new ideas and points of view.

Over the course of each term, members of the academic staff set stimulus material on a topic related to, but not covered by, the School’s schemes of work. Scholars have the opportunity to discuss the theme with their peers in universitystyle seminars. For instance, they might research the Search for ExtraTerrestrial Intelligence programme, the golden discs aboard the Pioneer and Voyager probes, and the scale of space and human radio emissions, leading to a scientific and philosophical debate about whether we are alone in the universe. Other research topics have included the purpose of poetry, the meaning of heroism in classical and contemporary culture, and an introduction to philosophy.

At the end of each seminar cycle, Scholars have three weeks to complete a research project related to their theme. They can submit their work in a wide range of formats – diaries, vlogs and artefacts are just as valid as traditional essays.

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“At the end of each seminar cycle, Scholars have three weeks to complete a research project related to their theme”

Beyond the teacher-led seminars, the Queenswood Scholar programme includes an exciting range of academic trips and speaker meetings, designed to give pupils a greater breadth of understanding of the world. During nonCovid times, Scholars regularly attend intellectual festivals and events such as Women of the World at London’s Southbank Centre, and TedX talks at the Royal Albert Hall. There are visits to sites of special academic interest, including Bletchley Park, the British Museum, the colleges of Oxford and Cambridge Universities, the Wellcome Genome Campus and the Royal Institution. There are also opportunities for exclusive meetings with eminent academics here at Queenswood. Recent visitors have included Professor Brian Cox, Lord Robert Winston and Lucy Worsley.

Jo Cameron, Principal For more information about Queenswood Scholarships, please visit queenswood.org/scholarships

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MICHELIN GUIDE Great Britain & Ireland 2022 Galvin La Chapelle E1, One Michelin Star

38 MARCH 2022

THREE MICHELIN STARS New Entry • L’Enclume, Cartmel, Cumbria.

Simon Rogan may have interests in other parts of the world, but his passion for his first restaurant remains undimmed – as does his commitment to Cartmel and his nearby 12-acre farm which produces so much of the superb produce that clearly inspires the kitchen.

Retained • Alain Ducasse at The Dorchester, London W1 • CORE by Clare Smyth, London W11 • Fat Duck, Bray, Berkshire • Hélène Darroze at The Connaught, London W1 • Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London SW3 • Sketch (The Lecture Room & Library), London W1S • Waterside Inn, Bray, Berkshire

Michel Roux Jr At Le Gavroche, W1, Three Michelin Stars

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t has no doubt been another year of change for the restaurant industry and extends to the world-famous Michelin Guide.

On 16th February, the prestigious MICHELIN Stars were unveiled for 2022, representing all that is unique and exciting about the dining scene in the UK and Ireland. An extraordinary achievement in any year but particularly impressive at a time when the hospitality industry faced so many challenges, not least having so many stops and starts.

So do bear in mind that these restaurants have achieved the feat of being awarded or retained Michelin Stars during incredibly challenging times, which makes it all the more impressive.

• 8 restaurants awarded Three MICHELIN Stars, of which 1 is new • 22 restaurants awarded Two MICHELIN Stars, of which 5 are new • 164 restaurants awarded One MICHELIN Star, of which 19 are new For restaurants that have been awarded or retained prestigious Star status, we are focusing here on those located in London and surrounding areas, so let’s take a closer look at these extraordinary restaurants:

Clare Smyth At Core, Three Michelin Stars

TWO MICHELIN STARS New • The Clove Club, London EC1V • Ikoyi, London SW1Y Retained • A. Wong, London SW1V • Claude Bosi at Bibendum, London SW3

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We are here to support your child with all their educational needs.

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Ikoyi London, Two Michelin Stars

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• Da Terra, London E2 • Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, London SW1X • Hand and Flowers, Marlow, Bucks • Kitchen Table, London W1T • La Dame de Pic London EC3N • Le Gavroche, London W1K • Story, London SE1

ONE MICHELIN STAR New • Evelyn’s Table, London W1 • Frog by Adam Handling, London WC2 • Jamavar, London W1 • Kol, London • Sollip, London • Trivet, London • Wild Honey, London SW1 Retained • Amaya, London SW1 • Angler, London EC2 • Artichoke, Amersham, Bucks • Barrafina, London W1 • Behind, London E8 • Benares, London W1 • Brat, London E1 • Casa Fofō, London E1 • Chez Bruce, London SW17 • City Social, London EC2 • The Clock House, Ripley, Surrey • Club Gascon, London EC1 • Cornerstone, London E9 • Coworth Park, Ascot, Berkshire • Dining Room at The Goring, London SW1 • Dysart Petersham, Richmond-upon-Thames TW11 • Elystan Street, London SW3 • Endo at The Rotunda, London W12 • Five Fields, London SW3 • Galvin La Chapelle, London E1 • Gymkhana, London W1 • Hakkasan Hanway Place, London SW1 • Hakkasan Mayfair, London W1 • Harwood Arms, London SW6 • HIDE, London W1 40 MARCH 2022

• Kai, London W1 • Kitchen W8, London W8 • La Trompette, London W4 • Latymer, Bagshot Surrey • Leroy, London EC2 • Locanda Locatelli, London W1 • Lyle’s, London E1 • Mãos, London E2 • Marcus, London SW1 • Murano, London W1 • Muse, London SW1 • Pétrus by Gordon Ramsay, London SW1 • Pied à Terre, London W1 • Pollen Street Social, London W1 • Portland, London W1 • Quilon, London SW1 • Ritz Restaurant, London W1 • River Café, London W6 • Sabor, London W1 • Seven Park Place, London SW1 • SO|LA, London W1 • Sorrel, Dorking, Surrey • St John, London EC1 • The Coach, Marlow, Bucks • The Glasshouse, Richmond-upon-Thames TW9 • The Woodspeen, Newbury, Berkshire • The Ninth, London SW1 • Tony Parkin at The Tudor Room, Egham, Surrey • Trinity, London SW4 • Trishna, London W1 • Umu, London W1 • Veeraswamy, London W1 Despite the unprecedented challenges faced by the hospitality industry, the restaurant selection of the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland is as relevant and strong as ever.

The MICHELIN Guide Great Britain & Ireland is published in a digital format only, at guide. michelin.com and via the iOS and Android apps.

Benares W1, One Michelin Star

Restaurant Gordon Ramsay SW3 , Three Michelin Stars

“The restaurant selection of the Michelin Guide Great Britain & Ireland is as relevant and strong as ever”

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THIRD TIME LUCKY FOR TODD IN THE HOLE FESTIVAL 15th – 17th July 2022

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fter the disappointment of having to postpone for the last two years, Todd in the Hole Festival is looking forward to finally opening its gates again this July.

The Todd Team have been working hard to bring a stellar line up to this years festival including, The Killerz, Amy Winehouse – A Tribute, Wham George Michael Tribute, UK Fleetwood Mac, Rick Parfitt Jnr &RPJ Band, Wrong Jovi, Mused, Dave Pearce, Pat Sharp plus loads more.

Ending the weekend in style on the Main Stage will be the legendary Martin Kemp and his Back to the 80’s DJ Set. Martin has been selling out across the country and with a reputation for huge singalongs on this rollercoaster ride through a trailblazing decade for pop music, the Sunday night at Todd promises to be one to remember.

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‘After missing out on staging the festival at the last-minute last year we want to make sure that 2022 is our best year yet with something for everyone. We can’t wait to enjoy fantastic music over a weekend to remember with our Todd festivalgoers.’ David Nye, Festival Co-Founder.

Continuing their support of Herts talent, Todd in the Hole will also give local musicians a platform to perform to a live audience. All this, plus the return of the Woods Stage, Buskers Stage, Vincents Stage and a bigger and better Kids Arena to keep Little Todders entertained all weekend.

At the very heart of this festival, set in beautiful Hertfordshire countryside, is the local community.

A community that has spent the large part of last year apart. What better way to come together – to laugh, dance, drink and celebrate with loved ones.

This year, they’re delighted to announce that Todd’s charity partner is the East & North Herts Hospitals’ Charity based at The Lister Hospital.

They’ll be helping them raise money for their ‘SafeSpace’ appeal which is raising funds to create a SafeSpace for children and young people who arrive at the Lister Hospital due to their mental health.

To buy tickets please visit toddinthehole.co.uk

“Ending the weekend in style on the Main Stage will be the legendary Martin Kemp and his Back to the 80’s DJ Set”

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MOTHER’S DAY GIFT IDEAS CLV This mothers day why not gift your mum some lovely gymwear from clvapparel! CLV is a small business with a passion for fashion & fitness! Whilst most of all giving you the confidence to feel great!

You can find us on Instagram: @clvapparel_ Facebook: @clvapparel

1 BRADHAMS FANTASTIC FLOWERS

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Luxury London-style flower bouquets without the London price-tag from Bradhams Fantastic Flowers.

Starting from as little as £40, choose from a range of gift bouquets or design something completely bespoke, and delight your Mum with a bouquet simply bursting with the most gorgeous blooms! Collect from the shop at 38 Fore Street in Old Hatfield, or delivery available across St Albans, Harpenden, Hatfield, Brookmans Park and Welwyn Garden City.

Order online at fantasticflowers.co.uk or call Theresa on 01727 648800.

HERTFORDSHIRE WINE SCHOOL - WINE TASTINGS & GIFT VOUCHERS

READER Treat mum to a wine tasting this Mother’s OFFER: SAVE Day! We’ve got lots of fun and informative tastings coming up, including, an Introduction to Rosé, ‘Fizz, Fish & Chips’ at Godfrey’s in Harpenden, our flagship Saturday Introduction to Wine with lunch at Thompson St Albans, and many more. We also offer Gift Vouchers so the recipient can choose a tasting. Our Gift Vouchers are valid for 2 years from the date of purchase. You can get 10% off all bookings made by 31 March 2022 (excluding WSET courses and Gift Vouchers) by using code ‘MD22’. hertfordshirewineschool.com

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2 HEY, MAMA’S - IT’S TIME TO GET IN THE PHOTO! This Mothers Day, why not treat the mothers, sisters and daughters in your life to a gift that will last a lifetime. With my relaxed and natural approach to photography, not only will you leave with beautiful imagery you can hang on your walls, but you will also leave with the memory of a fun, personal and emotive experience to treasure and remember always.

Motherhood and Maternity Portraits: loriyoungphotography.co.uk @loriyoungphotography info@loriyoungphotography.co.uk

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SHADOW & SAVIOUR

Shadow & Saviour is a small business focusing on healing crystal jewellery and celestial inspired art prints. All art prints are from original hand drawn illustrations and share a tarot card inspired theme based on Zodiac signs and The Chakras. There is also a ink and pen spiritual Buddha collection of art prints available to add colour and tranquilly to your home.

The jewellery is all bespoke and handmade to provide daily reminders of positive affirmations and healing energy.

To order art prints or custom jewellery contact Emily on Shadow & Saviour’s Instagram page (shadow_and_saviour) or email Shadow_and_ Saviour@hotmail.com

THE IVY ST ALBANS BRASSERIE This Mother’s Day, The Ivy St Albans Brasserie is delighted to be celebrating this wonderful time of year with a carefully crafted dessert designed to please the palette.

Surprise mothers and loved ones this March, with this quintessentially elegant treat named The Floral Mother’s Day Macaroon, consisting of a raspberry, almond and pistachio macaroon filled with fresh vanilla ice cream and topped with a rich raspberry sauce. Gift mothers something that little extra special this Mother’s Day with a touch of Ivy magic this spring by purchasing one of the brasseries gift cards.

The Floral Mother’s Day Macaroon is available for one day only on Sunday 27 March.

To book a table please call 01727 615300 or visit the website theivystalbans.com

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Looking for an amazingly unique gift that you can’t find on the high street, then look no further! Our unique candles are all upcycled from lovely bottles of all shapes and sizes! Crafted by hand, filled with soy wax and scented with beautiful fragrances, they really do make the most perfect gifts! We also provide the option for gift wrapping and a gift message if you want to make it that extra bit special.

Check out our Instagram and Etsy page @Halfcutbottles where you will find a range of hand-crafted unique gifts!

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WHY NOT GIVE A UNIQUE GIFT OF A 2 HOUR CANDLE MAKING WORKSHOP? You will be guided through each stage of the candle making process, have the opportunity to select from a range of fragrances and essential oils and create your own blends to scent two gorgeous coconut wax candles.

Botanicals and crystals are also provided. You’ll take your individual creations home with you. This is a creative, enjoyable experience to share with friends or family, a perfect Mother’s Day gift, birthday present or hen party activity. woottonwickcandles.com @woottonwickcandles Find us on Facebook MARCH 2022 45

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Cédric Grolet

Opens At The Berkeley World acclaimed pastry chef chooses London for his first patisserie outside of Paris

THE DETAILS

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ne of the world’s best pastry chefs has opened the doors to his first patisserie outside of France. The chef ’s world-renowned creations are available to takeaway. The patisserie, designed by renowned interior designer Remi Tessier has a central focal point: The Chef ’s Counter which hosts a globally exclusive dining experience to wow Londoners.

With a string of accolades citing him as the best pastry chef in the world, Cédric Grolet has been awarded rock star status particularly in his native France, with queues lining up outside his patisseries.He has chosen London, specifically The Berkeley, as his first home outside of Paris.Cédric Grolet says ‘London was the first city I ever visited outside of France. It has always had a very special place in my heart, and to open in this incredible city is a long time dream.We couldn’t let this occasion pass without creating something unique for the capital – a trompe-l’œil scone especially for the Brits.’

Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley is open

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seven days a week selling the chef ’s signature viennoiserie, cookies, cakes and standout patisseries, all freshly made each morning.

Alongside his fruit and flower cakes, Grolet and team have created an illusion of his favourite British cake – a classic scone, as a tribute to Britain. For those who want more than a takeaway experience, Cédric Grolet and The Berkeley have created a series of dining moments. At The Chef ’s Counter, guests are treated to a menu of signature tastings – five sweet and one savoury – and champagne.

The patisserie is nestled directly next to an entirely new space in the hotel – The Berkeley Café.

Cédric Grolet at The Berkeley is open seven days a week, 8am – 6pm.

The Chef ’s Counter is £135 per person.Bookings can be made for three sittings daily -10.30am, 1pm and 3.30pm - and reservations can be made at the-berkeley.co.uk/restaurants-bars/ cedric-grolet-at-the-berkeley Goûter is £90 per person, reservations can be made at the-berkeley.co.uk/restaurantsbars/the-berkeley-cafe

ABOUT THE BERKELEY Nestled between bustling Knightsbridge and Belgravia, The Berkeley is the essence of contemporary chic and innovative luxury. With stunning rooms and suites, Michelin-starred cuisine from Marcus Wareing, a fashion favourite afternoon tea at Prêt-à-Portea, the Blue Bar and The Berkeley Bar & Terrace for drinks and The Berkeley Health Club & Spa, The Berkeley continues to surprise and enchant. maybourne.com

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RELAX & RECONNECT

AT SOPWELL HOUSE

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reat that special someone to a romantic getaway at Sopwell House, found deep within the rolling Hertfordshire hills. Focusing on indulgence and seclusion, Sopwell House has plenty of space to escape, terraces to dine on and Cottonmill Spa to disappear into. The hideaway is only a short 26-minute train journey from London St Pancras and offers 128 stylish guestrooms in the main house, 16 exclusive Mews Suites with their own private courtyard and hydro pool, 12 acres of beautiful gardens, two restaurants, an elegant cocktail lounge and the beautiful Cottonmill spa.

The exclusive Club at Cottonmill features a hydrotherapy pool leading out to the Spa Garden, created by award-winning garden designer, AnnMarie Powell, where guests can enjoy three hot tubs, a fire pit and sumptuous daybeds. Inside, the spa features a Thermal Suite with four choices of steam and sauna rooms. Total tranquillity can be found in the quiet cocoons of the Rose Relaxation Room and Deep Relaxation Room, whilst the Whisper Room and Garden Room offer soft beds and chairs to unwind, looking out over the Spa Garden.

For the ultimate Valentine’s Day gift, Sopwell House is offering a selection of experiences, from romantic dinners to spa days and indulgent overnight stays, that are all available Saturday 12th and Monday 14th February: Valentine’s Dining includes a delicious fivecourse menu designed by the Head Chef, complete

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with a glass of Champagne. Highlights include whipped duck parfait, citrus poached lobster, beef fillet and a strawberry souffle to share. From £79 per person.

Valentine’s Escape includes an overnight stay in a Deluxe Bedroom, three course dinner in The Brasserie with a glass of prosecco on arrival, a hearty breakfast the following morning and access to the hotel’s leisure facilities, including indoor swimming pool, sauna, steam room and gym.

From £167 per person.

Valentine’s Spa Escape includes an overnight stay in a Corner or Mews Suite, five-course dinner in The Restaurant with a glass of Champagne, full hearty breakfast the following morning and access to The Club at Cottonmill Spa Facilities. From £299 per person.

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

“The exclusive Club at Cottonmill features a hydrotherapy pool leading out to the Spa Garden, created by award-winning garden designer, Ann-Marie Powell”

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THEIR ROYAL HIGHNESSES THE EARL AND COUNTESS OF WESSEX VISIT ESSEX & HERTS AIR AMBULANCE Essex and Herts Air Ambulance (EHAAT) hosted a visit by Their Royal Highnesses The Earl and Countess of Wessex today.

EHAAT is a local lifesaving charity and works alongside the hospitals, emergency services and supporting organisations across the region. Today’s visit was an opportunity to bring everyone together at EHAAT’s new airbase at North Weald, enabling The Earl and Countess to say thank you to some of these organisations for their outstanding hard work during the pandemic.

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n first arriving at North Weald, The Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire and Vice Lord Lieutenant of Essex greeted The Earl and Countess of Wessex, and introduced them to Jane Gurney, CEO of EHAAT. Their Royal Highnesses then toured the new airbase, where they met members of EHAAT’s critical care team, charity staff and volunteers. The Earl and Countess also heard about EHAAT’s vision for a ‘Centre for Excellence’ at North Weald, which would enable the charity to push the boundaries in innovation, research and education for the advancement of pre-hospital care.

Their Royal Highnesses spent time with representatives from the local hospitals in the region and then spoke to air lifted patients and their families to hear first-hand about their experiences.

The highlight of the Royal visit took place at the front of the building where people had gathered representing the emergency services and voluntary support organisations, together with the members of the armed forces and many EHAAT charity staff and volunteers. The Earl and Countess took the opportunity to stop and speak to individuals

and thank them for the work they do.

Jane Gurney was thrilled that The Earl and Countess of Wessex had visited. She said: “This is a real milestone in our charity’s history, as it is the first time that Essex and Herts Air Ambulance has hosted a Royal visit. It was a fantastic opportunity to bring together all of the organisations who have worked so hard during these challenging times of the pandemic.

I am truly honoured that we have been able to showcase our new airbase at North Weald and share our vision for a Centre for Excellence that will continue to develop pre-hospital care into the future.”

Chair of Trustees at EHAAT, Jonathan Trower, added: “We are absolutely delighted to have welcomed Their Royal Highnesses The Earl and Countess of Wessex to our new airbase in North Weald, and we are very grateful for their interest and support for our charity. We were able to show them our outstanding new facilities for our team and to discuss our exciting plans for the further development of our emergency medical services across Essex and Hertfordshire.”

Photos: Doug Blanks

Specialists in Party Supplies, Personalised Balloons, Toys, Baby Gifts and a Wide Range of Gifts and Decorations Perfect for Every Special Occasion.

My Bundle of Fun is a new shop, bursting with gifts, decorations and party items that have been personally curated by our team of experts to fit every special occasion.

If you’re seeking a distinctive something for your party or special event and in need of some inspiration and advice, our dedicated team are here to help.

We provide a friendly, personal service that will save you time and energy, helping to make your special event unique.

We’re on hand to help you source a special baby gift, decorations, a cluster of personalised balloons, or something amazing from our wide range of toys, games and gifts.

Our party-themed space offers items including balloons, luxury cards, plates, napkins, cups, cutlery and homeware, plus party bags designed for all ages and interests.

Don’t hurry past. Pop in and say hello. We’re so looking forward to meeting you.

9, Heddon Court Parade, Cockfosters Road, London EN4 0DB. Telephone: 0208 441 9000 | Instagram: @mybundleoffun

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Chelsea Antiques & Fine Art Fair

Following its highly acclaimed relaunch last September, the famous Chelsea Antiques & Fine Art Fair returns to the Old Town Hall from 23 – 27 March.A visit to the King’s Road venue is already in the diary for many connoisseurs and collectors eagerly looking forward to seeing a treasure trove of rare and unique exhibits belonging to leading dealers from across the country.

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ophie Wood, the Fair Director at 2Covet, explains: ‘We are very excited to be presenting the Fair in its traditional spring slot. With its new bold and stylish format our relaunch event last year was extremely well received and now our exhibitors are returning to provide another sumptuous selection of the finest pieces available on the art market today.’

There will be many highlights across the entire range of art and antiques. A superb Anglo Indian tea chest priced at £22,000 with Mark Goodger Antiques is one of the finest of its kind you will find anywhere in the world. Among the most collectable pieces will be Lady Hamilton’s keepsake ‘orange blossom’ box for her wedding flowers from circa 1795 with a full history. This unique item of Nelson memorabilia belongs to Wick Antiques and has a ticket price of £6,600.

Art collectors have more choice than ever at the Spring fair. The ever-popular Modern British painter Mary Fedden RA features in a self-portrait with her cat on the stand on Kaye Michie Fine Art while newcomer exhibitor, John Robertson, shows a superb etching by the highly accomplished etcher Stanley Anderson RA, depicting a violin maker engaged in his craft. Dating from 1948, this rare item in on sale for £1,100.

A rare and exceptional George III Rococo revival coffee pot made in Dublin in 1774

by Matthew West that once belonged to the international socialites the Count & Countess

Martignone from Milan features on the stand of silver specialists Mary Cooke Antiques.

A number of leading dealers join the fair, notably picture specialists Haynes Fine Art from the Cotswolds; Howards Jewellers from Stratfordupon-Avon, London silver dealers J.H.BourdonSmith and Hickmet Fine Art specialising in Art Nouveau and Art Deco sculpture and glass.

There is so much more: fine silver, jewellery, vintage watches, pottery, porcelain, sculpture, fine glass, traditional 18th and 19th century paintings, Art Nouveau and Art Deco, 20thcentury Studio ceramics and all kinds of objets d’art.

The Chelsea Antiques & Fine Art Fair first opened its doors to collectors and connoisseurs in 1950. Since then, it has welcomed collectors from across the world.

Among its many visitors and opening day VIPs have been leading figures from society, stage and screen, including Lord Snowdon, Patrick Lichfield, Margaret Thatcher, Sir Cecil Beaton, Rt Hon Sir Edward Heath, Elaine Paige, Leslie Phillips, Esther Rantzen, Robert Vaughan, Larry Hagman, Ernest Borgnine, Charlie Watts and many more.

The fair has for many years maintained strong links with a variety of charities and this spring, once again, the fair will be supporting The Edward Guinness Appeal in aid of Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for the disabled.

Tickets and details: chelseantiquesfair.co.uk

Canons Park, Edgware HA8 6RW 020 8951 5252 www.melissarestaurant.co.uk

BOOK NOW FOR MOTHERS DAY

DELICIOUS TURKISH FOOD AT MULTI AWARD WINNING RESTAURANT

Found on Whitchurch Lane just steps from Canons Park underground station, this popular restaurant brings freshness and authenticity to the forefront, giving you an unparalleled dining experience in the Edgware area. Whether you’re new to the cuisine or you’re an old pro, Melissa Ocakbasi aims to provide you with a fresh new experience.

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Corymbia ficifolia by Melinda Edstein.

RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show 2022. ©Melinda Edstein

Aechmea setigera by Annie Chen.

RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show 2022. ©Annie Chen

Viola ‘Molly Sanderson’. Rui Jiang.

RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show 2022. ©Rui Jiang

2022 RHS Botanical Saatchi Gallery presents

Art & Photography Show

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he Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and Saatchi Gallery continue their partnership and will present the 2022 RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show this April. Following its success in 2021, the annual exhibition will return this Spring and showcase new work from leading botanical artists and photographers across three galleries.

Entries for the show have been through a meticulous pre-selection process, where the scientific accuracy, technical skill and aesthetic appeal of the work is reviewed by an expert judging panel, with artists and photographers awarded RHS Gold, Silver-Gilt, Silver and Bronze medals, as well as a series of special awards including ‘Best Botanical Art Exhibit’ and ‘Judge’s Special Award’.

In 2022, a diverse range of subjects will be presented ranging from plants that have grown in the wake of the 2011 Great East Japan Tsunami to Rosulate Violas found at the height of the Andes Mountains. In addition, native British trees and hedgerow plants will complement illustrations of beautiful garden flowers. Anatomical drawings reveal the structure and form of some of our garden favourites, alongside explorations of the

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9th-29th April 2022 ecological and economic significance of many familiar fruits and flowers.

New photography entries include stereographic panoramas from various locations in the Hampshire New Forest and macro photography capturing the details of tiny Holly Parachute fungi. Flat lay photography of winter garden buds examines how different plants flourish, with multiple entries exploring rainbow themes across image series.

Former Gold medal winning exhibitors will also show their work alongside artists participating in the 2022 exhibition for the first time.

The show is a highlight in the calendar of the RHS Lindley Library, complementing its extensive collection of botanical artworks, photographs and illustrations which include more than 30,000 works.

The RHS Botanical Art & Photography Show will be open to the public from the 9th-29th April 2022 with free entry for RHS and Saatchi Gallery members.

TICKETS: Pre-sale tickets on sale now: saatchigallery.com/rhstickets ADMISSION: From £5, concessions available; under 10s go free (T&Cs apply); Saatchi Gallery & RHS Members go free.

Cosmos bipinnatus by Libby Ellis. RHS Botanical Art and Photography Show 2022. © Libby Ellis

THE DETAILS For more information about the RHS Botanical Art & Photography Show visit: rhs.org.uk/shows-events/ rhs-london-shows/rhs-botanical-artand-photography-show saatchigallery.com Instagram, Twitter, TikTok: @saatchi_gallery Facebook: @saatchigalleryofficial Saatchi Gallery, Duke of York’s HQ, King’s Road, Chelsea, SW3 4RY

Celebrate this Mother’s Day on Sunday 27th March with our celebratory sparkling afternoon tea You will be met with a spectacular view of the Old Palace before indulging in delicious homemade sandwiches, buttery scones and selection of sweet treats served in our contemporary Coach House Kitchen overlooking the historic Stable Yard, accompanied by a glass of sparkling rosé. From £24.95 with children’s afternoon tea option available.

On top of this every booking made entitles you to 10% off food & drink on your next visit to the Coach House Restaurant To book please contact 01707932725 or hatfieldhospitality@compass-group.co.uk Tuesday - Friday, 10am – 4pm T&C’s: Payment to be made in full. Booking prior and prepayment is required 5 working days in advance (exceptions could be made for walk-ins if spaces are available on the day). A full refund will be issued if booking is cancelled more than 5 working days in advance. Afternoon Tea is priced at £24.95 or £32 per adult for Sparkling Afternoon Tea and £15 per child aged 12 or under including VAT. Timed sittings are 50 minutes long and can be booked for 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. Offer available on Sunday 27th March 2022 from 12pm-4pm. All dietary requirements must be requested 5 working days in advance. Get a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine for every group of 4 booked. 10% off food & drink on your next visit to the Coach House Restaurant opening on 31st March 2022. Receipt of payment will be issued on the day which is required to redeem this offer. Electronic proof will not be accepted.

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

01707 888000

www.hertsexec.co.uk

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OVO’s NEW WRITERS’ SEASON

The Maltings Theatre, St Albans

If you’re keen to see some fresh new drama, some ribtickling comedy and even a bit of musical theatre look no further than OVO’s NEW WRITERS’ SEASON at The Maltings Theatre in St Albans which runs between February 1st and April 9th Far right: Adam Nichols photo by Pavel Gonevski All other images by Tim Morozzo

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here’s something for everyone! A truly mouth-watering – and very reasonably priced – programme kicks off with former solicitor turned writer Andrew Sharpe’s dramatic ‘Spiral Paths’ in which five characters over 50 examine their lives; fast rising young playwright Miriam Battye’s darkly comic play ‘Find A Partner’ will have you hesitating before you swipe right and the brilliant team of Will Pattle and Alice Briganti present the sparkling tragicomedy ‘Under Electric Candlelight’.

Amy Connery has written the dramatic ‘Scissor Sisters’ based on a real-life murder; St Albansbased writer Gabriel Fogarty-Graveson presents ‘Sniff ’, a mysterious meetup of two very different blokes and their very different lives while Zak Robinson has penned the very funny musical ‘Rockstar Prince’ which aims to study the history of rock’n’roll in about an hour!

Anton Chekhov’s play ‘Three Sisters’ is re-located to a back garden in Wigan by Knuckledown and Laura May Wilson gives us ‘Dinner Theatre’ in which everything that could go wrong at a dinner party does.

The programme will also feature a production of Lucy Kirkwood’s critically acclaimed ‘Mosquitoes’ which has been re-scheduled from last year’s lockdown cancellation. OVO’s production will be the first outing for this absorbing play since its debut at the National Theatre in

2017.

OVO will also present three solo shows: ‘Banter Jar’ by Hannah Francis-Baker about teenage angst; ‘Joshua & Me’ which is Rachel Hammond’s debut play and the hilarious ‘Playing Latinx’ by Guido Garcia Lueches about fitting in, working on his accent and remembering his salsa moves…but only because Adam Nichols is the Artistic Director of OVO and says: “We’re super excited about our NEW WRITERS’ SEASON – it’s a chance for audiences to experience the talent of some young and emerging playwrights who will present fresh and lively work dealing with issues that are relevant to all our lives today. All the shows will be at The Maltings Theatre in the round bringing audience members and players closer together; it really makes those watching feel part of the action.

There can be an almost gladiatorial feeling to it sometimes, which heightens the dramatic tension in the auditorium!

“It’s also a great honour to be the first company to produce Lucy Kirkwood’s amazing play ‘Mosquitoes’; Lucy’s such a fantastic playwright that our main job as actors and creatives is to ensure her words are presented with clarity and conviction. The play has taken on a resonance that I don’t think even she could have imagined when she wrote it, given that one of the main dramatic tensions revolves around a leading scientist and her anti-vaxxer sister!” ovo.org.uk

R FO Y W DA O N ’S K ER O TH BO O M

ALKIS RESTAURANT Authentic Turkish Restaurant

2 - 3, Holmstall Parade, Burnt Oak Broadway, Edgware, Greater London, HA8 5HX

020 8205 7157 MONDAY - THURSDAY: 11am - 1am | Friday: 11am - 2am | SATURDAY: 11am - 2am | SUNDAY: 11am - 1am

Best tasting Mediterranean cuisine

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MODEL VILLAGE OWNERS LAUGHING ALL THE WAY TO THE BANKSY AFTER £1M SALE

By Tom Wilkinson, PA

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miniature stable made by the artist Banksy and secretly added to a seaside model village attraction has sold at auction for £1 million.

As part of his Great British Spraycation tour, the anonymous creator made the Merrivale Stable, which was slipped in to the Merrivale Model Village in Great Yarmouth last summer.

The model village owners decided to sell amid fears the piece could be stolen and sold it at auction on Thursday.

Frank and Frances Newsome were delighted with the price fetched, with the money securing the future of the attraction.

“Newcastle-based Anderson and Garland Auctioneers said there was global interest in the piece, which was bought by a private UK collector” The stables were signed by Banksy and daubed with the words “Go big or go home”.

Newcastle-based Anderson and Garland Auctioneers said there was global interest in the piece, which was bought by a private UK collector.

The salesroom’s managing director Julian Thomson said: “From the moment this great story hit the press it grabbed the attention of collectors from across the globe. Interest was high and that ultimately produced plenty of bidders on the day.

“There was a fantastic buzz in the saleroom and, after a bidding battle, the hammer finally came down, achieving a great result for the client.”

Mr Newsome said: “My family and I are absolutely delighted with the result achieved today.

“It’s a fantastic result for the park.

“We’ve enjoyed the whole auction experience.

“We put our trust in Anderson and Garland and they didn’t let us down.”

60 MARCH 2022

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CLASSIC IBIZA AND ISABEL HOSPICE REUNITE FOR HATFIELD HOUSE RETURN Proceeds to support people and their loved ones living in eastern Hertfordshire with life-limiting illness.

Organisers increase their charitable donation by 150% Classic Ibiza, an open-air orchestral celebration of White Isle-inspired house music, has once again partnered with Isabel Hospice for its muchawaited return to Hatfield House on Saturday 20 August. With the show due to sell-out, and with the concert organisers increasing their charitable donation by 150%, it is hoped that considerable funds will be raised for this extremely worthy local charity.

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elebrating their 40th anniversary in 2022, Isabel Hospice supports patients and their families living in Eastern Hertfordshire with life-limiting illnesses and conditions, including cancer, heart failure or respiratory illness, and neurological conditions such as motor neurone disease. They help people to live pain- and symptom-free so they can make the most of the time they have left. The population they serve is almost 370,000 and last year they cared for 1,855 people.

Care is based on the simple idea that patients are ordinary people living with physical, social, emotional and spiritual needs. The Hospice provides enormous support to families and friends, caring for the patients and all those around them.

Adam Brockett, Head of Community and Events at Isabel Hospice, comments: “All of our services are free of charge to those who need them, but they are not without cost, meaning we must raise £7 million every year to guarantee the future of our care. We rely heavily on donations from the local community, as well as income from fundraising events and from our 16 shops.

“We are thrilled to be once again partnering with Classic Ibiza at Hatfield House in what is our 40th anniversary year. Your support will help ensure we can continue providing the best care possible for people in the local area.”

There will be various fundraising initiatives taking place on the evening, including a £2.50 donation (increased from £1 in previous years) from every programme sold, a recommended £5 donation from press and guest-list entries, as well as collection points at all entry and exit gates.

Further funds will be raised at the Isabel Hospice shop, selling a range of fun merchandise.

Lisa Ward, promoter of Classic Ibiza, comments: “We can’t wait to return to Hatfield House this summer in what is a landmark year for Isabel Hospice. We are delighted to more than double our charitable contribution to them from the sale of concert programmes, which are always a massive hit with the Classic Ibiza crowd.”

Classic Ibiza starts with a “Chill-Out DJ Set” performed by Rich Seam, who has played everywhere from the original warehouse parties to Ministry of Sound and Glastonbury. The Urban Soul Orchestra (USO) and DJ Goldierocks then take to the stage for the “San Miguel Sundowner Set.” Goldierocks then performs her very own “House DJ Set”, before she is re-joined on stage

by USO for the “Dance Set” and laser light show.

All aboard for a magical four-hour tour of the very-best in stately house music!

Tickets and information: classicibiza.co.uk Prices: Adults (over 18s): £45, Children (aged 5–17): £20, Under 5s: free

CREAM FASHIONS

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nce you know your son or daughter is getting married a wedding is just the excuse you need for dressing up.

Bride aside all eyes will be on the Mums. Cream has been trading in Royston for 46 years and is predominantly a special occasion store. The extensive stock on two floors is colour co-ordinated for ease of selection. Everything is available from outfits (sizes 6-26) to shoes, bags, hats, hatinators, fascinators and lingerie. Brands stocked include Condici, Ispirato, John Charles and Veni Infantino.

Dressed up, Lewis Henry and Ann Balon are perfect for plus sizes. Less formalwear from Frank Lyman, Gina Bacconi, and Alison is ideal for a day at the races, wedding abroad or guests and cruising.

Mothers usually purchase their outfits four months before the event and customers are given the option to change it if they

see something they prefer later, but they rarely do.

Once everything gels and you have the wow factor you have found the outfit.

It is usual for the mothers to coordinate with the wedding party. It is very important to be comfortable with what you are wearing. A shift dress with a jacket is always a popular choice because the jacket can be taken off in the evening when things warm up. A dress with a statement hat is also popular. It is important to be happy with the final look.

Whilst the outfit must be perfect for the occasion, having the correct lingerie underneath can alter the whole look of a garment. Cream has a well stocked lingerie department which can be tried on with the outfit. A free alteration service is available on all full priced outfits bought in store, a fitting being carried out six weeks before the event, thus ensuring a perfect fit. Shoes and bags are made in Spain in different heel heights and beautiful leathers.

OCCASIONS FOR LESS The Sale shop, Occasions for less located opposite Cream in Roysia House offers mother of the bride and groom outfits, shoes, bags, hats and hatinators from previous seasons at fantastic prices. See the Sale page on creamfashions.com.

There is also a half price section at Cream. See the bottom of the pages on Condici, John Charles, and Ispirato on creamfashions.com.

Why not pay Royston a visit,there is something for every occasion and budget. To book an appointment call Cream at 01763 244073 email info@creamfashions.com or Occasions for less at 01763 247166 - email info@occasionsforless.co.uk. The shop is Covid secure and the diary is filling up fast. Spring/Summer 2022 stock now arriving. creamfashions.com

MARCH 2022 63

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Escape Rooms Come to St Albans!

What is an Escape Room?

An escape game is a real-life experience where participants are “locked in a room” (but not really because that’s illegal), and must use elements of the room, the group’s collective knowledge, and wits to solve the mystery or escape. They discover clues along the way to solve puzzles, all within a set amount of time of 1 hour. We’re some of the most immersive escape rooms in Beds and Herts in terms of design and levels of difficulties. Think Crystal Maze meets Money Heist.

Prices start from £22 per person, depending on the size of the group. We also offer gift vouchers if you are stuck for a present for someone. Our party/corporate room is just£20 an hour to hire.

means adults can come for an afternoon of fun, or children can bring their friends or even have a Birthday party with us. We even have a meeting room which functions as a corporate team building room or as a party room.

What makes escape rooms different/unique?

You just need 2 or more players. Everyone can play their part. Think of it as a theatre show and players only know what is involved once the curtain rises.

The anticipation is exciting, and the games master helps immerse the players into the experience. If players get stuck, they can ask for a clue. There is always panic, tension and laughter, plus a sense of achievement if they solve the mystery in time.

Why did you choose St Albans?

St Albans is a great city with lots of families and people who like to be active, but there was a lack of indoor activities. We did our research and realised the escape room model would be a great asset here. We now employ amazing staff at the site who are fantastic at bringing each experience to life.

Who are your Customers?

It’s a real mixed bag. The beauty is that it transcends age. It can be played by anyone around aged 12 years and older. A few weeks back, we had a team where the average age of the players were 72 years old - anyone can give it a go! This 64 MARCH 2022

How did Locked Escape Rooms begin?

The Co-Owner Josh Carr says “I set it up with my two best friends. We wanted to start a business together and we all enjoy the escape room experience. We knew we would work well together and set up the business almost 3 years ago. The three of us bring different skills to the venture and we opened our first site in Dunstable, followed by Luton and now St Albans.

What are your future plans?

We have lots of ideas for 2022 and beyond. We may open more rooms in new locations, as there aren’t too many in Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire, and we will refurbish our existing rooms to create more amazing experiences at our current sites. We are growing all the time so watch this space!

“Think of it as a theatre show and players only know what is involved once the curtain rises”

THE DETAILS To find out more about Locked Escape Rooms visit the shop at The Maltings Centre 22-23 Victoria St Albans AL1 3HL, call 01582 797793 or email info@lockedescapes.com lockedescapes.com

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The wait is over…full music line-up announced for

PUB IN THE PARK!

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ub in the Park, the UKs biggest celebration of food and music, has revealed the full line-up of incredible music acts set to take to the stage in St Alban’s this Summer.

The festival will visit nine locations on its 2022 tour – including new towns, Wimbledon and Brighton - making it the largest touring festival of its kind in the UK. The new music acts completing the line-up include house and garage duo DJ Luck & MC Neat (Friday evening), fashionista, TV presenter and now DJ Gok Wan (Friday evening), 90’s Britpop icons Dodgy (Saturday afternoon), Incredible radio DJ General Levy (Saturday evening), superstar soul sensation Beverley Knight (Lazy Sunday session), British reggae sensation Aswad (Lazy Sunday session) and former frontman of Fun Lovin’ Criminals - Huey Morgan DJ set.

The new acts will be joining an already announced stellar line-up including the queen of the kitchen disco Sophie Ellis-Bextor (Friday evening), one fifth of arguably the greatest girl band of all time and now solo singing sensation Melanie C (Saturday afternoon) and indie rock band legends Kaiser Chiefs (Saturday evening).

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The hosts for the event in St Albans include celebrity chef, Simon Rimmer as well as Geordie chef legends The Hairy Bikers, who will be making their debut appearance at any Pub in the Park*.

The first mouth-watering pubs and restaurants have been announced too including brand new to St Alban’s, The Mariners by the incredible Paul Ainsworth, the delicious The Bull & Last, Made in Oldstead by Tommy Banks, Bib Gourmand awarded The Kentish Hare and Nick DeverellSmith’s The Churchill Arms. Due to popular demand the fan favourites returning include; Kerridge’s very own The Hand and Flowers, king of Indian cuisine, Atul Kochhar Restaurants, Joshua Moroney and Mursal Saiq’s Cue Point celebrating the best in British Afghan fusion BBQ and more!

THE DETAILS Pub in the Park will be taking place on the following dates at the following venues: Higginson Park, Marlow 12th – 15th May 2022 Wimbledon Park, London 27th – 29th May 2022 (subject to license) St Nicholas Park, Warwick 10th – 12th June 2022 Royal Victoria Park, Bath 17th – 19th June 2022 Dulwich Park, London 24th – 26th June 2022 (subject to license)

Pub in the Park will once again be bringing an incredible group of chefs - expect to see some of the hottest new talent in the food world, your TV favourites and some highly acclaimed Michelinstarred names. The host of award-winning pubs and restaurants will serve tasting dishes showing their signature style – from local favourites to revered eateries from farther afield – giving you the chance to savour food you might not otherwise get to sink your teeth into.

The 2022 event will feature more bars, a bigger arena with great views of the stage and a new layout giving you more space to mingle and party!

Plus, they’ll be even more festival fun - with chef demonstrations, the finest produce, top quality shopping and a kid’s area to keep the little ones entertained.

Dunorlan Park, Tunbridge Wells 8th – 10th July 2022 Chiswick House and Gardens, London 2nd – 4th September 2022 (subject to license) Verulamium Park, St Albans 9th – 11th September 2022 (Subject to Scheduled Monument Consent) Preston Park, Brighton 16th-18th September pubintheparkuk.com

Follow us on Instagram @Perfumeplayground and comment on our most recent post to be in the chance to win a Prize of An exclusive luxury perfume consultation + luxury scent

www.theoak-house.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH

& BEAUTY – Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – I M AG E : R E C L A I M M A L L O R C A

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

FASHION & BEAUTY BAGS OF STYLE A check + oak backpack with adjustable shoulder handles. Made of high quality vegan leather and with a black YKK zipper to close the backpack in the top. The backpack has a padded laptop compartment on the inside. quinceandcook.co.uk

SOMETHING FOR THE WEEKEND Authentic sustainable luxury goods. Handcrafted by a skilled team of women in our own atelier in Mallorca. Every bag is a one-of-a-kind unique piece. We never repeat. This unisex model is the perfect weekend or carry on bag. With a deep interior zipped pocket to store all of your favourite items. The comfortable leather shoulder straps are made from restored stirrup straps. Designed to fit perfectly in the trunk of your car or the overhead luggage locker on an aeroplane. reclaimsl.com

SUMMER STRIPES We love this organic bamboo men’s cotton striped T-Shirt. It has a boxy modern fit and scoop neckline for comfort. veo.world

SPLASH OF COLOUR Clothes for real women and children - who live, love and laugh.

Real women with real bodies and real lives. Palava celebrate living colourfully and creatively! palava.co 74 MARCH 2022

GOLDEN RULE A simply stunning one of a kind golden rutile Quartz teardrop stone with a checker cut back.

We wanted to capture the rustic feel of the golden rutile with an added touch of elegance and to allow the light to shine through and capture the golden reflections and tiny rainbows within the stone. Made from 1mm 14ct gold filled metal and complemented with a 20 inch gold fill belcher chain. Stone approx 35x23mm. momentscrystals.com

EXCLUSIVE MENSWEAR WITH A PERSONAL SERVICE

DRESS SUITS | DRESS SHIRTS

HUGO BOSS | KARL LAGERFELD | GANT | REPLAY | DSQAURED2 | TED BAKER | MEYER | MIRTO | BRAX

Sergio Menswear 14 Station Parade, Cockfosters, EN4 0DL 020 8449 5703 www.sergiomenswear.com

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Style icons over 50

Celebrating fabulous women over 50 as Nicole Kidman’s Vanity Fair cover goes viral

HERE ARE FIVE MORE STYLE ICONS WHO LOOK FABULOUS OVER 50…

1. Cindy Crawford, age 55 The American supermodel, actress and TV personality was once the world’s highest-paid model and the face of the 1990s. Having graced 18 American Vogue covers, the mother-of-two is still going strong at 55 years old. Now her daughter, Kaia, is following in her footsteps and has a flourishing modelling career.

Being body brave is where it’s at – whatever your age, says Sam Wylie-Harris.

Nicole Kidman’s been a poster girl since day dot, and the 54-yearold is breaking boundaries once again.

This time it’s not for leading roles – such as her portrayal of Virginia Woolf in The Hours, for which she won an Academy Award – but for the fabulous cover shots for Vanity Fair’s Hollywood Issue.

The mother of four certainly looks stunning. Not since she graced the silver screen in Baz Luhrmann’s Moulin Rouge! has the actor looked quite so sultry, or worn anything quite so skimpy – and we’re talking more than 20 years on.

Naturally, women should be admired and valued for their inner selves, intelligence and bold career moves, not just their appearance.

But with so many taboos about showing off your figure after a certain age, we applaud Kidman for demonstrating that doesn’t need to be the case.

Canity Fair cover photograph by Maurizio Cattelan And Pierpaolo Ferrari; Styled By Katie Grand

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gap-toothed model and actress was the milliondollar face of Revlon, a first at the time, and has 27 Vogue covers under her belt. Hutton has previously praised her skincare routine and Pilates classes for keeping that glow.

2. Halle Berry, age 55 With 7.5 million followers on Instagram, the American actress has been sharing the secrets to her impressive physique with age-defying yoga poses and workouts. Who would have thought it’s been 20 years since the Bond girl wowed us in that teeny-weeny tangerine bikini in Die Another Day? 3. Lauren Hutton, age 78 She’s been at the front of fashion for six decades. The American

4. Helen Mirren, age 76 She’s never lost that twinkle in her eye and still wows us with stylish outfits choices, and the award-winning British actor has starred in dozens of films over the years. Mirren is perhaps best known for her role as DCI Jane Tennison in the television series Prime Suspect, and for her brilliant portrayal of Elizabeth II in The Queen – for which she won an Academy Award.

5. Meg Ryan, age 60 The American actress is one of the silver screen’s sweethearts, with her cute smile and spirited sense of humour. Her breakthrough role in When Harry Met Sally in 1989 led to a 30-year career, with hits such as Sleepless In Seattle and You’ve Got Mail. Still the queen of romantic comedies, there’s no denying she knows exactly how to wear a little black dress, at any age.

The changing face of Hena Salon Written By Afshan Aslam

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he brand name Hena Salon is famous in the local Harrow community for the work of the renowned hairdresser and beautician Shahnaz Aslam, since 1993.

The Salon holds so many memories for so many families .Whether it was someone’s wedding, engagement or graduations etc Hena Salon would be part of the celebrations.

A more recent branch has opened in Saint Albans.

Post Covid Lockdown the Salon has proved itself to be ‘a survivor ‘. Shahnaz Aslam has created an exclusive skincare range that is produced organically. To treat the effects of aging, the Hena Gold Serum Is a very good product.

Hena Salon Kenton Road and Saint Albans has an introductory offer on Express facials: Collagen facial 15 mins for £15.

This facial increases elasticity of the skin. It avoids sagging, fine lines and wrinkles. A Collagen

HENA

top up is perfect if you are going to a social event.

To maintain good skin it is necessary to have a good lifestyle. Hydration is key. As an adult We need 2.5 to 3 liters of water everyday . People that have excellent nutrition have healthy skin. Protein, fruit ,vegetables and carbohydrates are a must.

Most importantly the skin needs 8 hours of sleep every night. As when you sleep the skin produces Collagen. The appearance of the skin will remain youthful. Stress can have adverse effect on the skin. For example Acne, Eczema or Psoriasis.So always find ways to be peaceful and relaxed. Get Into a Skincare routine. Buy products according to your age and skin type. Use an Spf 15 to 50 daily to prevent sun damage. Your routine should include a cleanser, toner and moisturiser morning and night.

Hena Salon Branches: Kenton: 0208 909 1783 Saint Albans: 01727 567395

THE HENA HAIR OIL The Hena Hair Oil has been made with Sweet Almond and acts as a conditioner for the hair .It also prevents split ends.

SPECIAL OFFER Hena Salon has a special treat for all their customers. On Monday’s & Wednesday’s a wash ,cut and blowdry is 20.

Award Winner Shahnaz Aslam

BEAUTY

SALON

EST 30 YEARS Winner of 2016 Woman in power award

VACANCIES Table Hire - £100 per week.

Nail Technician 5 days a week Please contact Shenaz on 07823 882 224 Senior Citizen offer Make up & Hair up - £50 Free consultation on hair treatments and restyling

Mrs Aslam Introduces her new Herbal range which is great for Hair Loss.

WE OFFER NOTHING BUT 5* TREATMENT

ST ALBANS BRANCH 27 Vesta Ave, St Albans AL1 2PG 01727 567395 Introduction New Offer Organic 24k Gold & Silver Facial which work amazing for anti - aging Crystal Care Facial Threading Bar Eyelash Treatment Eye Brow Colour Treatments Waxing Pain free Waxing for Bikini Line and Underarms Manicure & Pedicure Bridal Make up Special Occasion Hair and Make Up available

Call us today to schedule an appointment, or stop in and find out more.

Mon - Fri: 10am - 7pm, Sat: 10am - 6pm, Sun: Closed

MARCH 2022 77

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Sporting risks - the dreaded knee injury

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t seems unjust that those of us who dedicate regular time to being active and physically fit, whether on the football pitch, netball court or pounding the pavements, are the ones most likely to be taken out by the dreaded knee injury.

The strain the knee joint is put under, and the rapid twisting movements some sports demand, unfortunately mean that sports injuries to the knee are extremely common. We asked Mr Raj Thakrar, Consultant Knee and Trauma and Orthopaedic Surgeon at One Hatfield Hospital, to tell us more.

What are the most common sports injuries to the knee?

In my clinic I regularly see simple sprains, cartilage tears and ligament injuries. One of the most common ligament injuries is to the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). ACL injuries account for almost half of sports related injuries and can range from a small tear to quite a complex injury where the ligament tears and completely separates from the bone.

What is the Anterior Cruciate Ligament?

The ACL is a strong internal band of tissue that crosses your knee to join the thigh bone to the shin bone. It runs diagonally through the inside of the knee to give the knee joint stability and helps control the back-and-forth movement of the lower leg.

How is the ACL injured?

The most common mechanism of injury is a twisting motion of the knee joint. Common causes include landing badly from a jump, stopping or changing direction suddenly, or having a collision such as during a football tackle. You may experience a loud popping sound or sensation, although this does not happen to everyone.

The most common symptoms include pain and swelling of the knee joint. It is likely you will be unable to fully bend and straighten your knee and you may feel as though the knee is unstable and wants to buckle.

Will an injured ACL heal overtime?

A mild injury may stretch the ligament but leave it intact. Rest, ice pack and anti-inflammatory pain medication may be enough and a course of physiotherapy will definitely be of benefit to strengthen the muscles around the knee and get you back physical activity.

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When would surgery be recommended?

It will depend on the extent of the damage and if your quality of life is affected. If your knee feels stable and you do not have an active lifestyle, you may decide not to have surgery. I would recommend ACL reconstruction surgery if the knee is buckling during everyday activities, or when performing sports, particularly if the sport involves jumping or pivoting.

How is ACL reconstruction surgery performed?

We do this arthroscopically through small incisions around the knee joint, one to hold a thin, tube-like video camera (arthroscope) and others to allow surgical instruments access to the joint. The torn ligament is removed and replaced with a piece of tendon from another part of your knee. The new tendon will be attached to your thighbone and shinbone and serve as your new ACL. How long will it take to recover?

For the first 2 weeks you will need to rest, elevate and ice the knee often. Physiotherapy will be crucial to strengthen your muscles and regain full range of movement. You may need to use crutches for up to 2 weeks and should expect to have up to 6 weeks off work and driving. A full recovery and return to sport is expected after 9 months.

MR RAJ THAKRAR Mr Raj Thakrar is a Fellowship Trained Consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in knee surgery and sports injury. He has regular clinics at One Hatfield Hospital, a purpose-built private hospital in Hatfield, ideally located for patients throughout North London and Hertfordshire.

To make an appointment please call us on 01707 818 928. onehatfieldhospital.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

On the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee: Her most incredible fashion looks from the 1940s to now Katie Wright takes a look at the monarch’s style evolution.

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ueen Elizabeth II is about to reach a major milestone – for on February 6 it will be 70 years since her accession to the throne.

Over the years, she’s proved herself a veritable style icon. Here, to mark her Platinum Jubilee, we look back at how the Queen’s fashion has evolved, from her days as a young royal to now…

Queen Elizabeth II with her Maids of Honour after the Coronation; Below: The Queen and Prince Andrew in the grounds of Balmoral, Scotland

Royal bridesmaid In 1946, then 20-year-old Princess Elizabeth acted as bridesmaid at the wedding of Hon. Patricia Mountbatten and Lord Brabourne, wearing a typically Forties style frock with a square neckline and short, puffy sleeves.

Regal bride For her own nuptials at Westminster Abbey, the Queen selected a design submitted by her chief couturier Norman Hartnell. The duchesse satin gown was decorated with floral embroidery and came with a 13-foot train.

Coronation gown The Queen’s Coronation in 1953 called for another grand gown. Norman Hartnell was enlisted once more, designing a silk floor length dress to which colourful embroideries were added at the suggestion of the Queen.

Polo watching Seen in a less formal setting in 1956, the Queen chose a simple short-sleeved dress, lace-up shoes and her trusty black handbag for an outing with Prince Charles, Princess Anne and one of her beloved corgis, to watch the Duke of Edinburgh compete in a polo match.

Pastel portrait In this family portrait from 1968, we can see the first signs of what will become Her Majesty’s signature look: a block colour coat dress with black patent court shoes.

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From left: Queen Elizabeth II arrives for a dinner hosted by the Canadian Government; The Queen watches her youngest son, Prince Edward, and his wife Sophie Rhys-Jones leave in an opened topped carrage after their wedding at St George’s Chapel in Windsor; The Prince of Wales and Queen Elizabeth II talk after the marriage of Prince William and Kate Middleton

Seventies suit Embracing a bold Seventies print, the Queen topped this two-piece skirt suit with a headscarf – another of the monarch’s sartorial calling cards.

This page: Clockwise from top left: The Queen receives a ceremonial sword after her tour of the Golden Temple of Amritsar, when the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh visited the Sikh shrine in India; The Royal Family in the grounds of Frogmore House, Windsor; Queen Elizabeth II and her husband Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, leave Westminster Abbey after the wedding ceremony; The Queen meets Irish boy band Westlife, backstage after the 1999 Royal Variety Performance.; Royal Family on the steps of St Paul’s Cathedral after the wedding of Prince of Wales and Lady Diana Spencer

Wedding guest Taking a leaf out of her mother’s style book, for the July 1981 wedding of Prince Charles and Lady Diana Spencer the Queen chose a flowing aquamarine pleated frock with matching handbag and hat, accessorised with white gloves, shoes and pearls.

Bright and beautiful During a visit to a temple in India in 1997, the monarch stood out in a fabulous orange chiffon dress and jacket with a matching hat.

Lavender moment Showing off another glamorous wedding outfit, for the nuptials of Prince Edward and Sophie Rhys-Jones in 1999 the Queen donned a lavender hued lace gown with tonal accessories and a feathered headpiece.

Sequin style Later the same year, Her Majesty sported possibly her most colourful outfit ever seen in the public, a long-sleeved gown with a sequinned top and bright yellow skirt for the Royal Variety Performance.

Crowning glory Pulling out all the stops for a dinner hosted by the Canadian government in 2005, the Queen donned a white gown with a spectacular tiara and fur stole, contrasting the pale ensemble with bold sapphire jewellery.

Lemon look Opting for a lemon yellow version of her signature look for the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2011, the Queen teamed a long-sleeved dress with a floral embellished hat and her trademark Launer handbag.

Festive fashion Her Majesty chose a suitably festive hue for one of her few public appearances in 2020, donning a red coat and hat for a Christmas event with other members of the royal family at Windsor Castle.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

THE KENSINGTON WING T

“To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay”

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he Kensington Wing is the dedicated private maternity unit at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, providing women with around-the-clock clinical care, comfortable en-suite private rooms and hospitality services.

Being located in the heart of Chelsea and Westminster Hospital - one of the UK’s safest hospitals - the safety and wellbeing of mother and baby are reassuringly supported at all times. The Kensington Wing is immediately located next to the hospital’s outstanding and newly expanded Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and a consultant anaesthetist remains on site at all times, 24/7, dedicated to the needs of women on the Kensington Wing.

In these uncertain times, expectant parents can have additional anxieties or concerns about childbirth or going into a hospital. To ensure the safety of women and their birth partners, The Kensington Wing have important infection control procedures for staff and visitors to adhere to, but remain welcoming to your chosen birth partner for all stages of your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay. Your individual room and en-suite facilities are a haven in these times and the catering and hospitality team ensures your stay is relaxing as well as safe.

On the Kensington Wing the consultant obstetricians, midwives, nurses and maternity support workers provide care as a team. And are delighted to offer both consultant-led and midwife-led maternity packages.

The Kensington Wing’s highly experienced team of midwives welcome enquiries from prospective women and the opportunity to discuss midwifeled care in more detail. These ‘meet the midwife’ sessions are always a relaxed and special time to

talk and discover more without any obligation. For those women who are appropriate for midwife-led care, the team provide full support throughout your pregnancy and the midwifery team are available 24 hours seven days a week for advice or concerns throughout your pregnancy, birth and postnatal stay.

The consultant-led care package allows you the choice of one of our experienced consultant obstetricians to personally guide you through your pregnancy and birth. Your consultant provides continuity and individualised expertise throughout your journey. They build a relationship with you and your partner through the antenatal period to give you confidence to birth safely with them in line with your birth preferences. They remain to support you through the postnatal period including your 6 week postnatal check. All consultants are available to meet you and your birth partner without any obligation.

The Kensington Wing enquiry team are always happy to support with these arrangements and answer any questions.

If you would like to talk to one of the team, call 020 3315 8616, email chelwest.kensington@nhs.net or visit our website thekensingtonwing.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

World’s Greatest Eyewear

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pecs Direct Opticians’ philosophy is about finding the world’s most beautiful stylish glasses from around the world and bringing them to your doorstep right here on Barnet High Street.

Have you had disappointing experience with opticians in the past? Are you worried about choosing the right glasses? Are you in need of styling advice and professional expertise?

If so welcome to the right place Specs Direct in Barnet. If you don’t know what suits you. If you can’t wear glasses which fit you then we can help you. Here at Specs Direct we have helped our clients make the transformation from eyewear being a hassle and a pain to a real positive.

Something you will enjoy.

We bring the best eyewear from around the world combined with a unique styling approach from an experienced professional eyewear expert to create your perfect glasses. Call us today and start feeling good about your glasses.

Niche Eyewear is about finding the best frame designers and manufacturers from around the world. They can be found in places like Paris, Milan, Munich, Antwerp. We have relationships with the most admired and respected eyewear designers and independent eyewear companies who produce different and exclusive eyewear. They

“We bring the best eyewear from around the world combined with a unique styling approach from an experienced professional eyewear expert” are of the highest quality. Handmade. Frames that only people who are in the know have heard of.

LINDBERG eyewear tells the world you subscribe to a different way of thinking, and have a connoisseur’s appreciation of exceptional design and high-quality materials. Every frame is a statement about aesthetics, technical innovation and impeccable craftsmanship.

Start the New Year the right way and call us on 020 8449 1993 for our advanced eye examination which includes the OCT Retinal Scan.

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O G O LE G RA G

N TI

Save up to £370 off glasses

£50 off

1st pair of glasses

£120 off

2nd pair of glasses

£200 off

3rd pair of glasses

CALL FOR GREAT GLASSES! ZOOM GLASSES LOOK FABULOUS

NIGHT DRIVING GLASSES

GLASSES AS AN ACCESSORY *Conditions apply

Call 020 8449 1993

Visit 129 High Street ,Barnet Herts , EN5 5UZ www.specsdirectbarnet.co.uk

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

ME AESTHETICS

I

opened ME’s doors in 2017 with a mission to help people with skin concerns and conditions whilst preserving the health of the skin. My passion for skin health began from my bitter personal experience with acne through my late teens and early twenty’s. In my desperate attempt to search for a ‘miracle cure’ I was making my skin care choices based on quick fix solutions and marketing hype because I was not educated in how to look after my skin in the correct way.

This left me with a compromised skin that became angry, irritated, and ultimately exacerbated my acne. I knew I must have been doing something wrong which sparked my quest to learn about the functions of the skin on a physiological level.

It was then that I discovered the concept of Corneotherapy, healing the skin from the outside in by repairing and supporting the skin barrier. Our skin barrier is the outer-most layer of our skin that is extremely delicate and very easily compromised.

When this layer isn’t functioning properly it can be responsible for the development of many common skin concerns including premature aging. When I learnt to combine this external methodology with the assessment of internal influences such as diet and lifestyle, I knew that I could treat skin at the cause to achieve long term, sustainable results. Being able to correct my own skin concerns drove me to want to educate and help others get on the right path. Twelve years later having gained an extensive knowledge and understanding of the skin, ingredients, supplementation and professional treatments I am able to pass this onto my clients and have managed to achieve life changing skin transformations.

BEFORE

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AFTER

BEFORE

AFTER

Daisy McCarthy, CEO

“We are so grateful to be working alongside Surgicare Aesthetics, which was founded

by Dr Patel and Dr Gakhal, an NHS general surgeon and general practitioner respectively with a combined 20 years of medical experience”

My goal is to restore skin to its healthiest state because I know how you feel about your skin can impact your life and confidence on a daily basis.

With this is mind I felt it necessary to have a team of Doctors on board that my therapists and I can refer our clients to when we come across structural changes that can only be addressed by injectable procedures.

We are so grateful to be working alongside Surgicare Aesthetics, which was founded by Dr Patel and Dr Gakhal, an NHS general surgeon and general practitioner respectively with a combined 20 years of medical experience. Dr Patel is also a senior national lecturer, training the next generation of aesthetic doctors. In the rapidly expanding world of medical aesthetics, it can be a daunting field for patients to navigate. Our doctors are very personable and have skilfully mastered the ability to combine science and artistry to deliver a bespoke treatment plan of the highest clinical quality with a focus on achieving natural results.

Specialising in non-surgical injectables, treatments can range from reversing or preventing the signs of ageing with anti-wrinkle treatment and Profhilo to life changing procedures such as the non-surgical rhinoplasty. Recovery times for virtually all treatments are minimal with aftercare for all patients directly provided by our doctors who offer a complimentary 2-week review.

Combine the skills of our Doctors with our cutting edge skin treatments and you have a team that can truly create the best version of you.

Daisy McCarthy, CEO me-aesthetics.co.uk

“Your skin is as unique as your finger print” BESPOKE SKIN TREATMENTS Using a bespoke mix of advanced technologies such as Microcurrent, Ultrasound, Radio Frequency, IPL Skin Rejuvenation, LED Light Therapy and Microneedling, our skin treatments are uniquely personalised to rejuvenate and restore your complexion to optimum health. With our ‘non ablative’ methods we can effectively treat skin conditions and concerns such as acne, rosacea, pigmentation and aging skins successfully without compromising the skins natural functions.

CUSTOMISED CREAMS AND SERUMS Just like our treatments we curate your very own creams and serums specifically for your skin, following an in depth consultation and skin analysis.

We have over 35 sophisticated active ingredients to directly target and correct your concerns.

No two skins are the same, neither should your home-care be!

ADVANCED SKIN TREAMENTS | LASER HAIR REMOVAL BODY CONTOURING & SKIN TIGHTENING | MICROBLADING LASH LIFTS | EYE TREATMENTS | MANICURES & PEDICURES SUGAR HAIR REMOVAL | LYCON HOT WAX

Website: www.me-aesthetics.co.uk | Instagram: @meaesthetics | Telephone number: 02083666777 | 177 Bramley Road, Oakwood, N14 4XA

“Be the best version of yourself’’ ANTI-WRINKLE TREATMENT

Botulinum toxin A injections can be used to relax muscles which helps remove existing wrinkles and prevent future wrinkles developing.

We offer a free 2 week top up to achieve the best possible results.

DERMAL FILLERS

Anti-Wrinkle Injections | Dermal Fillers Aqualyx Fat Dissolving Injections | Profhilo | Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty | Tear Trough Filler | Migraine Treatment | Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating) | Bruxisim (Teeth Grinding) | Filler Dissolving

Dermal fillers can be used for a variety of reasons including restoring loss of volume, reversing the signs of ageing, facial contouring and reshaping. Bespoke treatment plans can be created including non-surgical face lifts. Results are Immediate with minimal downtime and last for 6-18 months.

AQUALYX FAT DISSOLVING INJECTIONS

Aqualyx is a simple and safe treatment for localised adiposity tissue (fat) which is too stubborn despite a healthy diet and good exercise regime.

Results are permanent as long as the patients weight remains stable.

WEBSITE: WWW.SURGICAREAESTHETICS.UK • INSTAGRAM: @SURGICAREAESTHETICS TELEPHONE NUMBER: 07950214717 / 07969654434 • 177 BRAMLEY ROAD, OAKWOOD, N14 4XA

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

KATE AT 40:

How her style compares to other royals at 40

The Duchess of Cambridge’s style shares some similarities with other royal family members. By Katie Wright

O

ne of the defining style icons of our time, the Duchess of Cambridge rarely puts a foot wrong when it comes to fashion.

It’s coming up to a decade since she officially joined the royal family and the mum-of-three has evolved her signature style, making bolder choices as the years have gone by.

In the early days of her marriage to William, the Duke of Cambridge, Kate was rarely seen in trousers (unless it was skinny jeans for a sporting activity), but now she embraces tailoring and the latest trends in a cool, confident manner. Her red carpet gowns are more show-stopping than ever.

Could the same be said of other members of the royal family when they hit the big 4-0?

As Kate celebrated her milestone birthday last month, we look back at how her personal style compares to other royals at the same age…

THE QUEEN The Queen turned 40 on April 21, 1966. By this time, the monarch had already perfected her signature look for public appearances: a kneelength dress and matching frock coat in a vivid colour (to ensure she stands out from the crowd) with gloves, hat and her trusty

Above: The Duchess of Cambridge on stage, during the first Earthshot Prize awards ceremony Left: The Duchess of Cambridge during a visit to Nower Hill High School in Harrow Far left: Queen Elizabeth II at the Royal Hospital garden party, Chelsea, 1967

Launer handbag.

Kate does embrace bold colours on occasion (she always looks stunning in red), but she varies her outfits a lot more than Her Majesty and chooses more casual ensembles for outdoor events and activities.

PRINCESS MARGARET Princess Margaret, who turned 40 on August 21, 88 MARCH 2022

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

1970, shared a fondness for frock coats, sensible court shoes and hats with her sister, the Queen.

Compared to the Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Margaret’s outfits tended to be more formal, though she loved a glittering gown for high-profile events, as Kate does.

PRINCESS ANNE

DUCHESS OF YORK

A dedicated follower of fashion, Princess Anne rocked some incredible Sixties mod minidresses and bold Seventies suits in her younger days, and her bouffant hair ‘do became famous in itself.

By the time she turned 40, in 1990, the Princess Royal had toned down her style considerably, but she stuck with the voluminous hair. Kate’s Christmas Day outfits are often similar to Princess Anne’s, featuring classic wool coats accessorised with leather gloves and boots.

The Duchess of York was already divorced from Prince Andrew when she turned 40 in 1999. During that period, Fergie was often pictured in boxy, dark-coloured skirts or trouser suits.

By comparison, Kate is a lot more adventurous with her style, embracing bright hues, bold prints and trendy silhouettes.

Above: The Duchess of Cambridge arrives for the Together At Christmas community carol service Top right: The Duchess of York at London’s Queen’s Club in 2000.

Top left: Princess Margaret leaves Hammonds Store during a visit to Hull, 1971

COUNTESS OF WESSEX Left: The Princess Royal at Ascot in 1993 Right: Sophie, Countess of Wessex on her 40th birthday in 1995

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Sophie, Countess of Wessex, turned 40 in 2005, a time when she favoured feminine tailoring, often in white or pale hues.

The Countess managed to side-step many of the worst fads of the Noughties by keeping her style relatively classic, and that’s also what Kate does. While the 40-yearold nods to current trends, she knows how to avoid anything that will date quickly.

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

INTRODUCING: THE OAK HOUSE

Take back your time at the new one-of-a-kind wellness destination.

A

nnnnd, breathe. With the chaos of Christmas behind us, 2022 says goodbye to restrictive resolutions and welcomes a new era of wellness, where physical and mental wellbeing is the ultimate passion project. So with mindfulness as your motivation, it’s time to discover the perfect space to start putting yourself first. Enter: The Oak House.

Nestled amongst the lush 42-acre grounds of Hertfordshire’s Hatfield Park, The Oak House is a 360-degree wellness destination like no other.

Offering a holistic experience in a truly unique setting, the space boasts a fitness studio, therapy room and treatment centre under one roof, meaning you can start your day with a powerful pilates class, treat your aches and pains with acupuncture and take part in traditional Buddhist meditation - without having to step foot out the door. Relaxed already? The Oak House has that effect.

“The Oak House is a 360-degree wellness destination like no other.

Offering a holistic experience in a truly unique setting” Whether you’re looking for a calming space to take a timeout or get your endorphins flowing, there’s an impressive list of treatments and classes brought to you by a passionate team of healing hands. Inside the breathtaking 1869-built old 94 MARCH 2022

church hall, you’ll find state-of-the-art equipment for both group and 1 to 1 fitness classes, including reformer and mat Pilates, Yin and Hatha Yoga and the ever growingly-popular Barre. Alongside the studio are tranquil treatment rooms complete with soothing candles and luxury scents to aid bespoke energy healing sessions, physiotherapy treatments, acupuncture and meditation.

Aside from taking me-time very seriously, The Oak House provides a place for likeminded people to come together and be part of a community that shares the same passion for wellness. Grab a coffee with friends in the onsite restaurant, wander the lush grounds and visit Hatfield Park’s Stable Yard, where you’ll find an eclectic mix of independent retailers throughout the year. With easy access by car, bus and train (just 500m from Hatfield station) and free parking, travelling to The Oak House couldn’t be simpler.

The only thing left for you to do? Relax. theoak-house.co.uk

Why Choose Construction Collective?

24HR response

Customer Service

Our team of expert tradesmen are on hand for you throughout London 24 hours a day for all emergencies.

Dedicated customer service and support from a long established company, we always strive for best service.

Planned Maintenance

Fully Accredited

Planned maintenance for offices, hotels, hospitality and industrial sectors. Bespoke maintenance plans to suit your needs.

All our tradesmen are fully vetted, DBS checked for your peace of mind. We are CHAS registered for quality assurance.

Electrical Tripping lights, faulty sockets, change of light fittings, EICR reports & certs, consumer unit replacement

Plumbing General plumbing emergencies, leaks, pipe repairs and fault finding services, blocked drains

Heating Boiler repairs, CP12 certificates, radiators, boiler installation, central heating fault finding, heat pumps

Walls & Ceilings Plastering, patch plastering, mould recovery & prevention, decorations for residential and commercial

Flooring Cap & cove flooring, contrast vinyl, laminate, carpets, LVT floors, safety flooring for residential & commercial

HOME &

PROPERTY – A collection of Hertfordshire’s finest house and garden companies, plus stunning homes for sale in the area – I M AG E : C H A P L I N S

H OME & PROPERTY

[NEWS]

INTERIORS TOTALLY TROPICAL Tropical tones are being injected into the home for SS22. These fun colour punches and natural elements will breathe warm air into interior schemes and add a sense of adventure. The Emmeline Pink Velvet Armchair in all its beauty presents an art deco feel with its curvaceous cushion and arm structure. atkinandthyme.co.uk

PRETTY IN PINK At Poster Store, you will find Scandinavian designed posters created with joy by passionate artists from around the world. They also offer stylish high-quality frames that are easy to handle and hang up on the wall. They are always on the lookout for touching and inspiring art and constantly expand our range with new stunning posters. posterstore.com

EASTER BUNNIES The Ella James Easter collection focuses on bringing the outside in with beautiful, Meadow flower, Lavender and Forget-Me-Knot wreaths, hanging eggs, rabbits and birds painted with matching floral designs. ellajames.co.uk 98 MARCH 2022

NEW YORK CITY BLUES Iconic. Achingly stylish. Timeless. The Brooklyn range from Porcelain Superstore pairs a sleek metro shape with a semidistressed finish to give a contemporary vibe. porcelainsuperstore.co.uk

BEAT THE BLUES This deep, rich fabric is ready to make maximum impact in your home. Another key colour for 2022, the stellar-looking Steel Blue is dark and dramatic as well as calming and chic. snugsofa.com

H OME & PROPERTY

Introducing Gabriella Crespi:

Artist, Designer & Disciple of the Golden Hour Anna Howell, Chaplins Interiors Editor

G

abriella Crespi wasn’t your average Milanese muse. She was beautiful, yes, but she also had what other creatives like to call the eye: a way of looking at things and making them wonderful.

It began with a series of objets d’art she made for her girlfriends in the late 1950s: small velveteen keepsakes that she embossed with snippets of poetry. Like so many great Crespi styles, they were initially supposed to be kept private. And yet when Christian Dior caught wind of them, he begged Crespi to sell them in his store in Paris, spotting the kind of everyday artistry that had been missing from the world of haute-couture.

It’s a quality she would continue to cultivate in the years that followed. Whereas icons of decades past had favoured rigorous lines and austere dressing, Crespi wanted to design styles that were

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lush, vital and alive.

The ones we’re interested in today are known as the Bohemian ‘72 Collection. A compilation of louche, rattan loungers that promise to bring the warmth of the Tropics home. “[With Bohemia] I wanted to create a house of sun,” Crespi once declared, inspired by the easygoing garden rooms she found on her overseas adventures.

To do so, she would have to abandon her usual mediums of brass and stone, reaching instead for something softer. She thought back to her many travels in Asia. The houses she encountered. And the way organic textures like rattan, straw and bamboo seemed to play with light.

Mastering their many movements would prove challenging work. Each of the rattan palms had to be steamed to approximately 100 degrees, before

which Italian lounges laboured; ushering in a new era of softness, indulgence and style.

To the chagrin of the public, the collection was only ever made available to private clients at the time — largely due to the intense craftsmanship that went into each piece.

And yet we bring good news on this front. In collaboration with Crespi’s estate, the Bohemian ‘72 Lounge Collection has been faithfully reissued by the masters of modern nostalgia at Gubi. A series of rich furniture and lighting that promises to write warmth into the in-between spaces — while offering a portal into Crespi’s kingdom of summer, sun and style. chaplins.co.uk

being bent around a free-flowing mould. And yet Crespi didn’t believe in cutting corners, pioneering a wonderfully sinuous style of furniture that saw reams of the rich material coiled layer upon layer.

Next came the pillows. At the time, low-slung lounge culture was in full bloom, but Crespi wanted to take it further, angling the cushions at 115 degrees so as to inspire the sitter to sink into new rhythms and flows. Observing, perhaps, how clouds chased each other through the sky. Or else the way an overhead bourgenvilla flourished just so.

Light enough to be brought outside on a bright summer’s day, the Bohemian ‘72 Lounge collection did away with the last vestiges of formality under

“The Bohemian ‘72 Lounge collection did away with the last vestiges of formality under which Italian lounges laboured; ushering in a new era of softness, indulgence and style”

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H OME & PROPERTY

AWARD WINNING DRIVEWAYS AND GARDENS DESIGNED FOR YOUR HOME

E

pping based Turnabout Landscapes Ltd is a professional award winning garden design and build contractor with an in house design team specialising in the design and construction of driveways. We offer inspirational and practical design ideas as well as Bespoke garden construction. We are proud to have worked at the RHS Chelsea and Hampton Court flower shows and have won regional and national awards for our driveways.

PATIOS Your garden is an extension to your home, a place where you can relax with your friends and family.

You rgarden should be a safe place where you feel comfortable. Make sure your garden works visually from inside your home and practically so it’s not wasted during the remainder of the year.

We design your garden around you. Our in house design team will come up with the perfect design for your garden to suit your home and lifestyle.We have designed and installed many fabulous gardens.

There are many ways to make an unattractive area more inviting. Consider adding a splash of colour, mood lighting and a good planting scheme to add a bit of imagination. Water features and outdoor art can provide a focal point. Create height in your garden by adding specimen trees, pergolas and screens.

OUTDOOR LIVING Your garden is an extension to your home, a place where you can relax with your friends and family.

Your garden should be a safe place where you feel comfortable. Make sure your garden works visually from inside your home and practically so it’s not wasted during the remainder of the year.

Turnabout landscapes ltd is a member of ‘Marshall’s Approved driveway and landscape contractor scheme’ which means our work is a high standard. We supply the UK’s most comprehensive range of driveway and paving products from Marshalls to ensure you receive the driveway or patio of your dreams to suit your style and budget; all professionally installed to your full satisfaction. turnaboutdrives.co.uk

OUR AWARDS ‘Best Driveway Transformation’ In the South East 2011 ‘Best Engineering achievement on a domestic driveway’ In the South East 2011 ‘Best Engineering achievement on a domestic driveway’ In UK 2011 ‘Best Driveway Transformation’ In the South East 2012(Marshalls Register Awards)

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H OME & PROPERTY

Top considerations for an indoor pool

S

o, you’ve decided on an indoor swimming pool, what now? There are many decisions to be made along the way, attention to detail and precise planning is crucial when designing a successful swimming pool and pool house. For anyone wanting to begin the process, here are the answers to key questions to help with the decision making: Are you interested in a stand alone indoor pool house or a pool house extension to your home?

This is the biggest decision you’ll need to make when it comes to your indoor swimming pool as placement and location play a crucial role in the success of a project. There are advantages and disadvantages to both options. You’ll need

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to think about main use for the swimming pool, do you want a place to escape to away from the home or do you want it attached to your home?

Will it play a big part in your daily routine? Do you have a budget you’re working towards?

Will you need planning permission?

For a stand alone pool house that is freestanding, complies to the permitted development design criteria and doesn’t affect your permitted development rights, it’s likely you won’t need planning permission.

However, a pool house extension to your home will need planning permission. Origin have a wealth of experience in gaining planning approval for indoor pools and they also manage the whole process for you so, no need to panic!

“Attention to detail and precise planning is crucial when designing a successful swimming pool”

Do you start with an architect?

No, Origin do it all, providing initial design sketches and budgetary proposals free of charge in their feasibility studies. Architects are extremely well versed with domestic construction details, but unfortunately an indoor pool is very different.

An architect can provide an outline design for an indoor pool but this may be an unnecessary expense as many don’t have the knowledge or insurances needed to take that design further.

Which features have the biggest impact on cost?

The most popular size for an indoor pool is between 8m to 12m as the bigger the pool, the bigger the cost. For avid swimmers, there are some excellent counter current swim devices available making the size of the pool less important.

Buying a pool cover is one of the bigger investments you’ll make throughout the process but they’re worth it as an important part of the pool design. They retain heat, reduce running costs and provide a level of safety, making them a necessity rather than an option.

When adding different features to your indoor swimming pool, it’s important to remember your original motivation. Did you want to create a place of relaxation? Your own fitness centre? A social hub for friends and family?

Why Origin?

It’s simple, Origin does it all. Building pools is

To speak to the experts at Origin Leisure call 01895 453996 now or visit originpools.co.uk for more information and to subscribe to our newsletter. Follow us on Instagram too @originpoolsuk

a specialised field, it’s unlike any other building project and requires a holistic approach with all the key elements working together from the beginning.

Origin has all the design and engineering expertise necessary and manage the whole building process for you, from initial concept, planning and design to completion and beyond, eliminating the need for you to employ separate companies. Access to a pool right on your doorstep means it’s easy to swim everyday in the privacy of your own home, either to maintain a healthy lifestyle or simply as a space to relax. Origin have been building award winning swimming pools for over 40 years and in that time have successfully completed thousands of pools and pool houses to a wide range of specifications. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor, wellness or fun, Origin has experienced it all and are available to help you create your home pool managing every stage from start to finish, giving you the confidence and freedom to enjoy finally swimming in your own home.

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H OME & PROPERTY

G E T R E A DY F O R S P R I N G

W

ith a spring in our step, lets dive into 2022 with Homescapes. The Yellow Tulips Digitally Printed Cotton Duvet Set is available in an array of sizes, and would easily update the bedroom as the warmer months begin to appear.

With a charming design and 100% cotton, this duvet set would encourage anyone to get an early night and guarantee a good night’s rest. With light blue being a hot topic colour this upcoming year, inject a little tranquillity with the Osborne Velvet Footstool Cube with Legs in Light Blue.

Complement the sleek gold legs of the foostool with the new Round Geometric Gold Mirror 106 MARCH 2022

(60cm), a décor dream with its textured metallic frame and ornate geometric design.

Nothing screams spring like a nature inspired motif. The Green and White Gardening Apron with Floral Bee Design also comes in coordinating gardening gloves, providing protection and style for those who are green fingered, along with the Green Floral Outdoor Rug with Bumble Bee Design, (182 x 122 cm) which can be used to update patios and outdoor seating areas. With spring cleans underway, create that dream guest room space with the Laurie Velvet Click Clack Sofa Bed in Yellow which brings a splash of sunshine into any scheme. homescapesonline.com

“Nothing screams spring like a nature inspired motif”

The drivewayS and paTio company www.hertfordshiredriveways.com

Come home to quality...

driveway inSTallaTion

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

Driveway anD patio Design anD installation!

Free surveys anD quotations!

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

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

The approved specialist

paTio and garden ServiceS

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

oTher ServiceS

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

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

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

ABOUT

&

OUT

LOVE H OMELOC & PROPERTY AL

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H OME & PROPERTY

Why you should choose a specialist for your new mobility bathroom

I

f it’s time to update your bathroom so that it’s safer and easier to use, a specialist mobility bathroom company will answer your questions and provide advice. Here are some of the major benefits of choosing an expert rather than a general bathroom company or plumber.

A BATHROOM DESIGNED JUST FOR YOU A mobility bathroom specialist will assess the specific needs of all bathroom users. Whether you have reduced mobility because of arthritis or if you use a walking frame, a mobility bathroom expert will tailor the bathroom design accordingly to produce the safest solution.

SPECIALIST, HIGH-QUALITY PRODUCTS Installing a low-level shower tray alone does not mean that your bathroom is now adapted to your needs. An expert will consider all aspects of the environment including the flooring, walling, sanitaryware and brassware and recommend which products will be best for you.

WITH YOU FROM DESIGN TO COMPLETION A true mobility bathing expert will be there from the initial meeting to discuss your requirements, to ordering and supplying the products that will make your life easier, to the expert installation. They will take the stress out of the process by managing everything for you, rather than you having to deal with multiple tradespeople.

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TRY BEFORE YOU BUY A specialist will provide the opportunity to look at - and even try out - the products they recommend to you, rather than just showing you pictures in a brochure. For example, you could see if a walk-in bath will be suitable for you by making sure you can access through the door easily.

You can view a range of mobility bathrooms at the BMAS showroom. A free, no-obligation design and quote service is available in the comfort of your own home.

View a range of mobility bathrooms at the BMAS showroom in Hitchin town centre.

THE DETAILS BMAS 67 Hermitage Road, Hitchin SG5 1DB 01462 889 097 herts@bathingmobility.co.uk bathingmobility.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

ERCOL:

SIENA

DINING

W

ith its curved edges and pared-back aesthetic, the Siena collection introduces a calming softness to your room scheme. Including a dining and breakfast table, Siena’s smooth lines and light finish compliment all manner of interior styles, from mid-century to modern rustic.

Versatile in form and function, the Siena dining table sits beautifully in eat-in kitchens, while the breakfast table creates a useful and cosy corner for eating, reading and relaxing. Ideal for maximising space, circular and oval tables have a smaller footprint than rectangular or square. The lack of sharp corners encourages openness and flow, in both movement and conversation, while the addition of a central pedestal base allows for more chairs. Showcasing ercol’s timeless aesthetic and unwavering quality, Siena is crafted from solid oak and oak veneers, with a clear matt lacquer finish to highlight the pattern of the grain and the beauty of natural wood.

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ABOUT ERCOL: Celebrating its centenary last year, ercol is a true icon of British design. Founded in 1920 by a young Italian, Lucian Ercolani, design and people were the cornerstones of ercol from the very beginning. While the company has evolved over the course of the century, the founding principles remain: a commitment to beautiful and honest furniture, produced by craftsmen who take pride in their jobs.

Privately owned and family run, today Ercolani’s grandson Edward Tadros upholds his grandfather’s legacy of artistry and innovation.

The only remaining global furniture manufacturer in what was once the heartland of the UK’s furniture industry, ercol’s state-of the-art 160,000 sq ft factory near High Wycombe combines cutting-edge technology with time-honoured craftsmanship, techniques and traditions. Designed for living and crafted for life, ercol’s enduring aesthetic and unwavering quality are showcased across its ranges of dining, living, bedroom and home office furniture. ercol.com

Rats & Mice • Squirrels • All flying and crawling insects • Solar panel proofing against pigeons also undertaken

THEY WON’T BE BACK!

Call Tim Simmons, THE VERMINATOR 07734 649305 | 0808 1972730 verminatoruk.com | info@verminatoruk.com

H OME & PROPERTY

Kitchen Transformations Transform your tired kitchen in as little as 2 days from start to finish...

AFTER

BEFORE

I

t’s so easy… Swapping the doors and drawer fronts will dramatically change the look of your kitchen, giving you an amazing transformation without the stress, upheaval and mess that comes with a traditional refit.

Dream Doors offers you a one stop shop for all your kitchen needs with a huge choice of doors worktops, sinks, taps, appliances and accessories.

The Kitchen is the Heart of the Home. Not only does it serve as the most functional room in the house but it is usually the most social one too, but whatever your lifestyle is it any wonder so many of us spend time planning our dream kitchen?

We offer a personal service to help you realise your dream from start to finish.

A new kitchen is said to add an average of between two to five per cent to the value of your home and with Dream Doors you can change as little or as much as you want. From a simple facelift - replacement doors, a new worktop and perhaps a sink we can transform a kitchen in just a couple of days! Everything is installed by our local skilled tradesmen, the rubbish removed, and a new kitchen ready to use in the blink of an eye.

We can also provide a completely new bespoke kitchen should you prefer, and to help you visualise your dream create a computer aided design for you to see it come to life.

So whether you are looking for a quick transformation or a total redesign, Dream Doors has it all. For ideas and inspiration give Dream Doors a call and let them bring your dream to life.

Call 020 8429 3556 and speak to Tohid or Marek to arrange for your free no obligation quote.

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AFTER

BEFORE

“From the first meeting I was very impressed with his knowledge. The fitter was very polite and professional. I am over the moon with finished result.”

– Customer base in Ruislip

“This was a big job changing worktops/ door fronts / tiles and a new floor. Guys where polite and where good workers.

Job was finished to a high standard.”

– Customer in Stanmore (Customer feedback from Checkatrade, score 9.7 out of 10)

*Valid until 31/01/2021 *Valid on new orders only

H OME & PROPERTY

THE LANDSBY, STANMORE

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he Landsby in Stanmore delivers 101 one and two-bedroom apartments including ten penthouses and is the only luxury retirement living offering of its sort in the North London area.

During the design process, extensive customer research was undertaken by Elysian Residences in order to understand customers’ needs and preferences. This has resulted in over 44 different apartment designs ensuring options and choices that meet those requirements, delivering a variety of unique properties and most importantly providing exceptional living spaces.

Bespoke apartments, provide a state-of-the-art specification and high- quality finishes including Miele and Siemens appliances, Hansgrohe and Duravit bathrooms and timber tongue and groove flooring.

Homeowners benefit from the amenities and services of a five-star hotel including a 24 hour concierge, restaurant Benjamin’s, currently offering home delivery. Homeowners are also able to utilise the Landsby’s library and there is a gym located on the sixth floor.

A natural extension of the staff ’s matchless service day-to-day, is the additional care that is also available on a totally flexible basis if needed.

Elysian Residences chose Stanmore for their

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“Homeowners benefit from the amenities and services of a fivestar hotel including a 24 hour concierge, Benjamin’s restaurant, and a Foyles curated Library”

flagship development due to the area’s sense of community, its urban location with a rural feel, alongside its connectivity into Central London from Stanmore station.

The Landsby’s position on Merrion Avenue also affords homeowners accessibility to the shops and restaurants situated on Stanmore highstreet. Designed by leading London architects Collado Collins, the Landsby’s architectural style deliberately references the Art Deco period seen in the local area with generous covered balconies and large windows. Limited apartments are still available to purchase at the Landsby. Prices start from £480,000 for a one-bedroom, £695,000 for a two-bedroom and £1,275,000 for a penthouse apartment: all providing private outdoor space.

If you would like to visit contact the Landsby Tel: 0203 813 3861 or visit: elysianresidences.com

H OME & PROPERTY

WILDERNESSE HOUSE

THE DETAILS The show apartment and mews houses are available to view, along with the Great Hall and Library, health spa and Pavilion restaurant.

Prices at Wildernesse House start from £970,000, with 53 new build apartments coming 2023 from £595,000 (other fees also apply). For further information please contact Elysian Residences at Wildernesse House Tel: 020 3918 7997or visit: wildernessehouse.com

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ildernesse House in Sevenoaks is a Grade II listed Georgian property, set in 24 acres of picturesque Kent countryside, which has been skilfully and sympathetically transformed into a new and exceptional retirement community, by Elysian Residences.

The 23 luxurious apartments and eight newly built contemporary mews houses are all of the highest specification and benefit from exclusive use of on-site 5-star hotel style facilities, including, a cocktail/coffee bar, the Pavilion restaurant, health spa with swimming pool and treatment rooms, and landscaped grounds, with walking paths, inspiring gardens and croquet lawn.

The 23 spacious and light apartments are in the main house and all have individual layouts with unique, original features, many with large openplan living, dining and kitchen areas. Four Heritage Apartments have been created from the largest state rooms of the original house with significant original features, complimented by bespoke contemporary kitchens and luxurious bathrooms.

These are truly unique apartments, blending history and modernity.

Close to the main house is a terrace of newly built two-bedroom contemporary houses, designed in Scandinavian-inspired style. The houses offer open-plan living, with bedrooms filled with natural light and living areas opening onto private terraces.

Wildernesse House is located less than two miles from Sevenoaks town centre and offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, cafés and a mainline train station with services to London in just 23 minutes, close by is the Kent Weald, which is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

H OME & PROPERTY

Elegant, modern living in a countryside setting Homes at Trent Park, Berkeley’s beautiful heritage site in Enfield, North London

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omprising elegant homes at the heart of 413 acres of parkland, country-club leisure facilities and a location less than 30 minutes by train from Central London, Berkeley’s Trent Park in Enfield has something for everyone.

This exceptional development offers traditionally designed new and converted apartments and houses set in beautifully restored landscaped grounds, around the impressive centrepiece of a Grade II listed mansion house which is being meticulously restored and converted. Superb residents’ amenities are offered at The Lawn Club, including an open-air heated swimming pool, state-of-the art gym in a restored Orangery, and four outdoor tennis courts.

Cockfosters High Street is within walking distance and offers independent boutiques, cafés and restaurants. Trains from Oakwood Underground station – which can be reached using a residents’ exclusive shuttle bus service– reaches King’s Cross in just under half an hour.

There is a range of homes currently available for sale, each provide luxury and convenience in equal measure.

At The West Wing just two four-bedroom homes are available, close to Trent Park’s magnificent Grade II listed mansion. Their bespoke design is inspired by a Victorian service wing which stood in their location. Alternatively, a selection of four-bedroom, semi-detached Whistler houses remain available, occupying a

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coveted location against a backdrop of trees; these homes are set across three storeys, beautifully designed with flexible space for family living.

Just two apartments are available at Carlton House with views over the historic Daffodil Lawn, providing the last opportunity to purchase a newly built apartment at Trent Park, while The Chaplin Collection, close to the landscaped Long Garden, offers the last chance to purchase a three-bedroom Wigston house type, or a four-bedroom Tilden house.

Launching in late March is the Stable Block, a collection of converted apartments set within one of Trent Park’s stunning historic buildings offering enviable views across the development’s extensive landscaping and lawns.

THE DETAILS Prices start from £725,000 for a one-bedroom apartment and houses are priced from £1,400,000. Call Berkeley on 020 3930 4912 or visit trent-park. co.uk to register your interest in the Stable Block or make an appointment regarding the other homes available.

H OME & PROPERTY

WEST LONDON HOMEBUYERS BREAK DOWN DEPOSIT BARRIERS AT LAMPTON PARKSIDE

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avvy property hunters looking to make the up and coming district of west London their home, should look to award-winning housebuilder Hill’s new development Lampton Parkside. Being delivered in partnership with Notting Hill Genesis and occupying a prime position in the popular borough of Hounslow, buyers have an exclusive opportunity to choose from 50 apartments being made available with the Help to Buy: Equity Loan Scheme. Bordered by the sought-after areas of Richmond, Chiswick and Kew, purchasers are invited to book their place at Hill’s Help to Buy event on Saturday 26th March. With support from independent mortgage specialists Torc24, aspiring homeowners can look to secure a new home with a deposit of just £13,750 - a huge £48,822 less than the current average firsttime buyer deposit.Offering the only chance to purchase a property at Lampton Parkside with Help to Buy – prospective purchasers should act quickly to avoid missing out!

Rebecca Littler, Group Sales and Marketing Director comments: “We are thrilled to be launching the Help to Buy scheme in The Bellevue at Lampton Parkside - this will provide much-needed support to homebuyers who struggle to raise the large deposits required when buying on the open market. West London is fast becoming a popular choice amongst a variety of purchasers realising the areas potential. Offering fantastic local amenities, green space, good schools and excellent transport

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“We are thrilled to be launching the Help to Buy scheme in the Bellevue building at Lampton Parkside”

links, the area is now a hotbed for London’s first-time buyers keen to capitalise on the outer London price difference without compromising on location or amenities. These homes will be the only properties at Lampton Parkside available to purchase with Help to Buy, so we expect demand to be high – purchasers should register their interest as soon as possible.”

Superbly located within an attractive new neighbourhood, Lampton Parkside is less than a five-minute walk from Hounslow Central station and just over half a mile from Hounslow town centre. Named as one of the London Mayor’s designated Housing Zones, Hounslow town centre will benefit from £1.85m investment to support accelerated development and growth aiming to create thousands of new jobs and homes over the next five years. Forming part of the exciting plans ahead will be a multiplex that will host a new public square, a 10-screen cinema, a choice of new retail outlets and amenities alongside a variety of restaurants and cafes - including the recently opened popular sushi chain Kokoro and worldclass climbing centre, Hang.

A superior collection of studios, one and two bedroom apartments and duplexes have been considerately designed to offer spacious and elegant environments, finished with an exceptional specification that comes fitted as standard.

Meticulous thought has gone into every internal detail, from stylish Amtico flooring with underfloor heating and ambient lighting, to door handles, ceasarstone worktops and fully integrated appliances – every effort has been made to create a home that feels special. Residents will also have access to an onsite meeting room ideal for those days when working from home, and a dedicated 12-hour, 7-days a week concierge service – from taking in deliveries to arranging dry cleaning; they will be on hand to make everyday life run more smoothly.

Light-filled kitchen/living/dining areas effortlessly lend themselves to be the heart of the home, while bedrooms and bathrooms feature well-designed storage and offer a relaxing sanctuary after a busy day. Private outdoor space to each property ensures ample opportunity to press pause and enjoy the tranquil and far reaching views that stretch across Lampton Park and west London’s attractive skyline. A network of shared podium gardens interspersed between the buildings, with some featuring landscaped sky gardens, mean Lampton Parkside residents can embrace a healthy and refreshing lifestyle thanks to its lush parkside setting. Secure bicycle storage further promotes a greener mode of transport for those who enjoy travelling under their own steam.

Commuters are well catered for. Hounslow Central station is a few minutes walk away and is served by the Piccadilly line, which provides journey times of 38 minutes to Piccadilly Circus, 45 minutes to King’s Cross and St Pancras and 11 minutes to Heathrow Airport. For other routes, Hounslow East and Hounslow West stations are both less than two miles away. The development is also well served by several bus routes, making it easy to get around the town while the M25 can be reached in around 20 minutes via the A30.

Lampton Parkside residents will have easy access to everything that makes this west London location a popular choice for buyers. Adjacent to the development is the Green Flag awarded Lampton Park, providing 40 acres of open green space perfect for a morning run, an afternoon walk, or somewhere for children to burn off some energy. Another Green Flag recognised park is

the nature reserve of Hounslow Heath, just over a mile away and covers more than 200 acres to explore. The Treaty Shopping Centre provides a range of everyday essentials and the boutique cafes and trendy bars on Chiswick High Road provide the perfect place to enjoy during the day or night.

The affluent locations of Richmond and Kew are just a short drive away, and host to a number of high-profile music events and sporting fixtures, Twickenham Stadium, home of the England rugby team is also nearby.

For those who like to see local sights, the renaissance architecture of Syon House is located within Syon Park, which is both eye-catching and perfect for a stroll along the River Thames or the popular historic building of Boston Manor House is situated four miles away. The multi-awardwinning Bedfont Lakes Country Park is six miles from Lampton Parkside, with a nature reserve and playground. A short drive away is Hanworth Air Park Leisure Centre and Library, with a leisure pool, fitness centre and multi-use games area.

THE DETAILS Prices at Lampton Parkside start from £275,000 for a studio apartment, with selected homes available with the Help to Buy: Equity Loan from 26th March 2022. For further information about the homes available at Lampton Parkside or to book your place for the Help to Buy event on Saturday 26th March, please visit lamptonparkside.co.uk

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H OME & PROPERTY

FINAL UNITS REMAIN AT HISTORIC ROYAL CONNAUGHT PARK AS SALES REMAIN STRONG

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eading developer Comer Homes reports that 75% of all available units in The Nova Collection, the latest phase at the historic Royal Connaught Park have now sold.

Since launching the collection of premium new-build apartments in Summer 2021, the Comer Homes sales team has maintained strong sales to a mixture of purchasers. The 100-acre private gated residential site, located in the popular Hertfordshire town of Bushey, has proven popular with buyers wishing to downsize to a spacious apartment that provides less maintenance and upkeep than a large family home, as well as commuters looking to take advantage of a 15-minute commute into central London.

Priced between £610,000 to £1.425 million, the apartments’ interiors have been carefully designed to be flexible, with large open spaces that offer supreme functionality so they can be freely arranged by their owners to match their modern lifestyle demands.

Set within a collection of five new-build blocks, the remaining apartments within The Nova Collection comprise a mixture of two, three and four-bedroom apartments, ranging in size from 900 sq. ft. to 2,164 sq. ft. with some homes mezzanines or spaced across two floors.

The majority of units also provide ample outside space in the form of private gardens, balconies and terraces, most of which are south-facing and benefit from direct sunlight throughout the day.

Commenting on Royal Connaught Park’s successful spurt of recent sales, Sales & Marketing Director at Comer Homes, Caroline Comer, said: “Since launching the final phase of the sales

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programme, the response from buyers has been tremendously positive and we couldn’t be more delighted to have sold these exquisite units to our buyers and are confident they’ll enjoy having The Nova Collection as an ideal place to call home.

“Having listened to feedback from our customers and paid careful attention to over recent years, the standards of living here are second to none. For many having to adapt due to multiple lockdowns etc., the demand for larger homes with access to expansive green space continues to be great and this combined with the excellent on-site amenities also contributes to this.”

Residents of Royal Connaught Park are privy to around the clock access to amenities which include: a state-of-the-art gym and spa complex with jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms, as well as an indoor heated pool. For those looking to enjoy the outdoors, the vast countryside, woodland as well as private parkland and private gardens provide the most desirable setting and environment.

Another of the residential development’s selling points is its convenient access to local transport, which is supplemented by a residents’ bus that operates each morning through to the early evening and provides direct links to key local shopping destinations – all within a stone’s throw from a collection of popular shops and dining locations. For commuters, the bus also stops at Bushey Station where regular trains offer a 15-minute journey into London Euston.

THE DETAILS Prices at Royal Connaught Park start from £610,000 for a two-bedroom apartment. For further information on the last remaining homes for sale in The Nova Collection, please contact the sales office on Tel: 01923 222292 or Email: info@thecomergroup.com

H OME & PROPERTY

Investor boost as Watford ranks as London’s top town for commuters

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atford has achieved top ranking as one of the UK’s top commuter destinations, according to an exclusive research report commissioned by award-winning developer London Square.

The analysis by Dataloft, the UK’s leading property market intelligence company, is revealed as the developer launches London Square Watford, a collection of one and two bedroom apartments located two miles from the centre of town, to investors.

The apartments feature sleek kitchens and open-plan living areas. Most of the apartments have private outside space, with communal landscaping for residents to enjoy. There is private, gated parking for selected apartments and cycle storage. It is close to excellent transport, with fast train links to central London taking 23 minutes and major road links including the M1 and the M25 nearby.

According to the Dataloft report, 45 per cent of people moving to Watford come from London.

The region has a predicted price growth of 17 per cent from 2021 to 2025, compared to 12.6 per cent across London. Annual price growth of 6.6 per cent was achieved from March 2020 to March 2021, exceeding outer London (6.1 per cent) and Hertfordshire (6.4 per cent).

The town has a young and dynamic rental market, with two-thirds of tenants either single occupants or couples aged between 20-39. Analysis by the Imagine Group shows that a one bedroom apartment would have a rental income of around £1,200 pcm and a two bedroom apartment would command a rent of around £1,550 pcm, with an average yield across the apartments of around 4.5 per cent.

The Dataloft analysis showed that Watford was

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THE DETAILS Prices from £320,000 for a one bedroom apartment and two bedroom apartments from £407,400. For more information call 0333 666 01110 or visit london.square.co.uk.

chosen as the happiest place to live in the East of England, and ranked the top commuter location outside of London.

Regeneration funding of £1.5bn is currently funding the expansion of employment, businesses and transport in the town, with Watford junction being developed as a strategic transport hub. An £180m expansion of its central shopping centre will elevate the town into the top 20 of UK retail destinations. Close to 15,000 homes are planned by 2036, with over 150,000 employment opportunities within a 30-minute commute. Major employers in the area include KPMG, Warner Bros, Camelot, Hilton, Ralph Lauren and Europcar.

H OME & PROPERTY

Best bathroom flooring: Making the most of your space

Stylish solutions to step it up a notch. By Sam Wylie-Harris.

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hile some things in the home can be short-lived, passed on or recycled, we all want our bathroom flooring to be functional and hardwearing, especially considering its footprint.

But we also need comfort to the touch of our toes, good looks, and possibly offering the illusion of space, too, as wash rooms are frequently on the small side.

Inspired by spa-like elements and equipped with the latest features, while the bathroom carpet debate rumbles on, here’s how to achieve the right flooring for your layout and lifestyle, according to the experts…

Vinyl is viable and in vogue “Vinyl and luxury vinyl are ideal flooring solutions for bathrooms,” says Stuart Hannah, showroom manager at The Floor Room.

“Particularly hardwearing and unaffected by spills and splashes, they’re able to effectively emulate more expensive materials and designs – such as stone or ceramic tiles – whilst also benefitting from an easy and affordable installation process.

“In a bathroom, the flooring is an essential design element, as it helps set the tone of the space, so think about what ambience you’re trying to achieve.

“Neutral, natural material effect vinyl, such as stone and wood, will effortlessly add a calming feel, whilst a bold repetitive tile adds colour and personality that can be toned down with plain walls and accessories,” suggests Hannah.

Wooden flooring with the wow factor Darwyn Ker, managing director of Woodpecker Flooring says: “Traditionally, wooden floors and bathrooms don’t mix. But Woodpecker’s next generation Stratex collection has all the 128 MARCH 2022

aesthetically-pleasing looks of traditional wood flooring, but is resistant to humidity.

“The Brecon range in particular, is waterproof too – making it the perfect choice for stylish bathrooms. Everyone loves the beauty of wood, and its natural character adds style and warmth to every room. But high humidity and wood are not a great combination. Our gorgeous Stratex boards offer the best of both worlds.”

Pad around on porcelain for a boutique hotel-inspired bathroom “Bathrooms are no longer the utilitarian spaces of old; they’re sanctuaries, spaces in which to unwind, relax and recharge, and this move is reflected in bolder, more flamboyant flooring options,” says Abbas Youssefi, co-founder of Porcelain Superstore.

“Vogue Pink commands attention. Its striking pink tones and swirls of coral give it a luxurious, almost onyx-like feel. There’s real glamour to this tile and it’s large format finish gives it a continuous look throughout, adding a real sense of space to even the tightest of spaces.”

H OME & PROPERTY

PARADISE BY THE BATHROOM LIGHT:

Biophilic Tiles Inspired by Kew Gardens

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new collection from independent tile specialists Porcelain Superstore is helping bring biophilia into the bathroom.

The Paradise collection is a striking mosaicesque tile inspired by the flora and fauna of Kew Gardens and is perfect for homeowners looking to re-establish their connection with nature.

Tranquil yet opulent, Paradise puts florals centre stage and offers a stunning alternative to the clinical tiles more often associated with the bathroom.

Abbas Youssefi, Director of Porcelain Superstore, said: “Paradise is a showstopper of a tile. It’s bold, colourful and its subtle gloss glaze adds a touch of texture. Combine the detail with the subtle teal backdrop and this floral beauty ticks a lot of boxes.”

This richly-patterned tile is the first of its kind for Porcelain Superstore, but Abbas believes it’s just the start of a new era in tile trends.

Paradise Ceramic Tiles are £42 per m2 and available from porcelainsuperstore.co.uk 130 MARCH 2022

NEW SHOWROOM OPENING SOON IN BROOKMANS PARK

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