Life Magazines (Hertfordshire editions) October 2015

A Luton Hoo

Christmas Celebrate in style with luxurious Party Nights & Festive Fayre at Luton Hoo

ST ALBANS FASHION WEEK

PETER RABBIT COMES TO WILLOWS

Luton Hoo

GOLF LESSONS AT BROCKET HALL

Irresistibly Luxurious Laura Ashley - The Manor Elstree 49 luxury en suite bedrooms 10 acres of gardens and natural woodland award winning restaurant and bar with unrivalled views of the city of London skyline.

Hertfordshires Newest Haunt New Experiences Await this autumn www.lauaraashleyhotels.com

from the

editor

Welcome to our October issue...

H

adley Wood Golf Club have teamed up with the Herts Sports Partnership and the national “This Girl Can” campaign set up by Sport England, to offer ladies free golf Taster Sessions.

St Albans Cathedral presents the annual Firework Spectacular in Verulamium Park. The largest public fireworks display in the south of England, this veritable panoply of pyrotechnic craft is organised by the Cathedral in aid of local charities.

There are lots of spooky events and ghostly goings on at Paradise Wildlife Park this Howl-o-ween from 23rd October to 1st November. Howl-o- ween will be completely different and new compared to previous Halloweens at Paradise.

St Albans will again host a week of fashion and beauty events, including the UK’s longest indoor catwalk show inside the iconic St Albans Cathedral, at St Albans Fashion Week this Autumn.

Wharton, a master jeweller for over 40 years, was inspired by the Alban’s Angels campaign, to raise money for the Cathedral’s project, ‘Alban, Britain’s First Saint.’ Funds are being raised to provide a new welcome centre and learning centre with the hope that these new developments will raise the Cathedral’s national profile, secure its future and bring many more people to St Albans to experience this historic city.

Faye Manning Editor

Get this issue online

PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD The Ridings, Woodfield Lane, Essendon, Herts, AL9 6JJ. 0844 800 8439 www.thelifemagazines.com Editor Faye Manning

Design/ Production Emma Andrews

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Editor Assistant Katie Miller

senior business manager Jade Hughes

Sales James Marshall

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Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

••••• Sub Editor Alex Lux

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An opportunity to meet

AllAn morgAn

Personal attendance saturday 28th november, 2-5Pm

Gallery rouge are delighted to welcome british landscape painter allan morgan to their st albans gallery. renowned for creating bold works in powerful tones, morgan’s paintings are both calming and vibrant in equal measure.

Gallery rouge will be exhibiting an exclusive collection created especially for this exceptional event. For your opportunity to meet allan and to receive advance notification of works available, please email stalbans@galleryrouge.co.uk

27 Chequer Street, St Albans, AL1 3YJ stalbans@galleryrouge.co.uk | 01727 860401

www.galleryrouge.co.uk

LOVE

LOCAL

We put fantastic local businesses and exciting Hertfordshire events in the spotlight each month

Peter RabbitTM at Willows Activity Farm www.willowsactivityfarm.com

LOVE LOC AL

23 OCTOBER - 1 NOVEMBER HALLOWEEN AT PARADISE WILDLIFE PARK There are lots of spooky events and ghostly goings on at Paradise Wildlife Park this Howl-o-ween from 23rd October to 1st November. Howlo-ween will be completely different and new compared to previous Halloweens at Paradise. This year we will be focusing on raising awareness for Wolves whilst still enjoying the Mosterous Mayhem that occurs around this Spooktacular season. Through the October half term we will be showing off our two sets of Wolfpacks, with our new Scare Shows and Events too.

Paradise Wildlife Park, White Stubbs Lane, Broxbourne, EN10 7QA

ARTS & events

CALENDAR 8 NOVEMBER More to Explore at St Albans Cathedral

More to Explore Tours at St Albans Cathedral Date: Sunday 8th November 2015 Time: 15:00 Price: Free A free, specialist tour of St Albans Cathedral, focussing on iconography of the Virgin Mary. Take a free guided tour and learn from the experts about the depictions of the Virgin Mary found in the Abbey Church and Cathedral of St Alban.

Begins at 3pm, starting at the West End of the Cathedral. Please do get in touch with any queries. Email: mail@ stalbanscathedral.org Tel: 01727 860780 www.stalbanscathedral.org Free Meet at the West End of the Cathedral at 3pm.

St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, St Albans, AL1 1BY 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

1 november The Watford Hilton Wedding Fair A great wedding fair conveniently located for both North London and Watford on the A41. Fashion shows 12.30pm and 2.30pm featuring the latest Bridal Gowns. See over 40 exhibitors.

Doors Open 11am - 3.30pm Free admission and parking.

1 Elton Way Watford, WD25 8HA

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17 & 21 OCTOBER GOLF TASTER SESSIONS Hadley Wood Golf Club have teamed up with the Herts Sports Partnership and the national “This Girl Can” campaign set up

by Sport England, to offer ladies free golf Taster Sessions.

From 11.30am-2.30pm on Saturday 17th & Wednesday 21st October 2015, Hadley Wood’s Professionals will teach the basics – how to drive, chip and putt. Full details can be found on their Facebook and Twitter pages Hadley Wood Golf Club, 44 Beech Hill, Barnet EN4 0JJ

r es fo ti w ar o n sP k a o tm B o ris Ch

Christmas Party 2015 7 november St Albans Firework Display St Albans Cathedral presents the annual Firework Spectacular in Verulamium Park. The largest public fireworks display in the south of England, this veritable panoply of pyrotechnic craft is organised by the Cathedral in aid of local charities. Enjoy refreshments and entertainment too!

Verulamium Park, St Albans, AL3 4HE

24 october - 1 november Pumpkin Festival FREE pumpkin for every child from Willows Pumpkin Patch with a pumpkintastic time for all the family. There are daily pumpkin carving competition wit prizes, Pumpkin Hunt, Match the Scarecrow and Children’s Shows. Plus a full day’s programme of fun including plenty of under cover play in Woolly Jumpers indoor play barn, Toddler Town and Captain Chicken’s Egg Dodge. Daily 10am to 5.30pm. Willows Activity Farm. Coursers Road, London Colney, St. Albans, AL4 0PF

AntiPASti - Fresh Vegetable Soup - Sliced Duck breast served with salad, sweet melon & an asian dressing - ‘Burrata’ : extra creamy mozzarella, served with vine tomatoes, avocado puree, drizzled with a balsamic reduction & extra virgin olive oil (v) - A bis of Forman’s Famous Smoked Salmon and ‘Gin and Tonic’ Gravdlax served with sour cream, beetroot & radishes & Melba toast - Home made Chicken Liver Pate served with peach chutney and melba toast - Portobello Mushroom topped with gorgonzola & walnuts (v) (n) MAin CouRSe - Roasted Fresh Scottish Cod Fillet topped with a herb crust served with crushed new potatoes & fresh spinach - ‘Osso Buco’ of Turkey with Gremolata, cooked for several hours in vegetables & a rich stock, served on a bed of mash potatoes and fresh carrots - ’Aubergine Canneloni’, Spinach and Sun dried tomatoes wrapped in Aubergine and baked, topped with a Gorgonzola and Parmesan sauce and served with mash potato (v) - ‘Girasoli’ Pasta filled with Ricotta & Spinach served with butter sage & parmesan (v) DESSERT Sticky Toffee Pudding served with vanilla custard Chocolate Brownies with vanilla ice-cream

£26.00 + service charge 12.5% Service charge is left to your discretion thank you The Rising Sun Mill Hill LLP, 137 Marsh Lane, Mill Hill, London NW7 4EY • 0208 959 1357 • www.therisingsunmillhill.co.uk

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5 9 RISING SUN.indd 1

12/10/2015 17:12

love H EALTH local & BEAUTY

FASHION STATEMENT Graceland Exterior square

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t Albans will again host a week of fashion and beauty events, including the UK’s longest indoor catwalk show inside the iconic St Albans Cathedral, at St Albans Fashion Week this autumn. And to ensure no one misses out on the spectacular show, this year’s event will offer an additional Cathedral Catwalk Show, doubling the excitement and glamour that SAFW has become renowned for

Cathedral couture

St Albans, a popular member of the commuter belt, is famed for its beauty and elegance. SAFW has further sealed its stylish city status with the help of the breath-takingly beautiful Cathedral and Abbey Church of St Alban. Each year the Cathedral is transformed into the UK’s longest indoor catwalk where 800 plus guests are treated to a stunning show of collections from independents, high street brands, exciting new designers and talented local students. Julia Yule, executive fashion and beauty editor at Glamour magazine said of last year’s show: “I couldn’t believe how enormous a production the Cathedral Catwalk Show was. It was phenomenally well put together and I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

To accommodate demand, SAFW 2015 will include two Cathedral Catwalk Shows on Thursday 29 th and Friday 30 th October. The two shows will each feature a variety of retailers and local designers, collections by fashion students, a wedding sequence and a new trend section in which retailers showcase their take on autumn/ winter’s biggest trends. New to SAFW this year is Shop the Catwalk, where guests are invited to do just that. Taking place immediately after the shows, guests can buy their favourite looks, many at discounted rates, inside the Cathedral.

Ellena Ophira, SAFW founder and organiser, said: “ Our Cathedral Catwalk is by far the highlight of the week and with it being a sell out each year, we will be hosting two Catwalk shows in St Albans Cathedral this year, giving more people the opportunity to attend. We can’t believe the demand to take part in this year’s 1 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

Ellena Ophira, Director & Founder of SAFW

26octo3b1e 2015 r

festivities,” she continued. “We’ve had double the applications from retailers and students. We’re just so overwhelmed by people’s continued support and enthusiasm for SAFW, in particular, the wonderful team at the Cathedral, who we just love working with.”

Joining the retailers this year, will be renowned celebrity stylist and former Britain and Ireland’s Next Top Model Judge, Grace Woodward, with her new, Hitchin based, boutique Graceland. Grace says, ‘ I’m so thrilled to be taking part in St Albans fashion week this year. It epitomises everything that is attractive about Hertfordshire, great community, beautiful architecture and independent spirit combining to produce a truly unique experience.’ SAFW 2015 sponsors include, Blavo and Co., The Skin to Love Clinic and Bare Minerals and Dylans at the Kings Arms.

Suburban Styling reaches new heights

Building on the success of the previous two SAFWs (last year the city welcomed an estimated 2,000 shoppers to its streets during the week), this year’s event will again see a multitude of fashion and beauty events taking place. Details will be released in the lead up to SAFW, but two must-attend events that fashionistas need to put in their diaries now are Welcome to Graceland on Wednesday 28 th October and The Gents Collection, on Tuesday 27 th October.

Sponsored by Poggenpohl Kitchens, celebrity stylist and Fashion Commentator Grace Woodward, will be showcasing her collection of high fashion finds from her new boutique Graceland.. Her event, Welcome to Graceland, will launch her Hitchin based boutique to the fashionistas of St Albans with a pop up shop and a styling masterclass.

Continuing the theme of visual delights SAFW Headline Sponsor, the Skin to Love Clinic and Colour Sponsor, Bare Minerals will both be on hand to offer beauty tips and demos on the night too. Look out for further information on Grace’s event at SAFW nearer to the time.

Men who struggle with what to wear on dress-downFridays need to head to D.Copperfield Esq , on Tuesday 27 th October, where the SAFW team will be building the ultimate man cave. This men-only event will be a night

Left: Caroline Jones, Knickers Model’s Own

Cathedral Catwalk Show, by Craig Shepheard Pop up shops, by Blue Feather Photography

Grace Woodward

French Connection, photo by Spike Brown

Little Viking Vintage, photo by Spike Brown

of suave sophistication, with whisky and spirit tasting

by Tomoka Spirits; a pop-up barber and live wet shaves from the Alternative Barbering Co.; a designer watch bar, courtesy of Wharton Goldsmith, featuring stylish timepieces from Breitling and other luxury watch brands; and a masterclass hosted by the D. Copperfield team demonstrating how to put together a smart and stylish capsule wardrobe.

Charity Shop Couture raises money for Cancer Research UK

Each year, SAFW supports a local charity and this year’s benefactor is Harpenden-based Caroline Jones in her Knickers Model’s Own campaign mission to raise £36,500 for Cancer Research UK. Caroline will be hosting a styling event with a lovely lunch at Brasserie Blanc during the week, where she will impart her wisdom on how to dress frugally and stylishly from your local charity shops.

Caroline will also be starring on the Cathedral Catwalk herself, alongside her own collection of looks styled exclusively from Cancer Research UK charity shops.

Super Shopping Saturday

Another SAFW highlight is Super Shopping Saturday, which benefits both shoppers and retailers alike. On 31 st October, participating retailers across St Albans and Harpenden will celebrate the final day of SAFW 2015 by offering discounts, gifts with purchases and glasses of fizz to make shopping even more fun. One retailer who is a huge supporter of the event is Deryane Tadd, owner of The Dressing Room. Winner of five Drapers awards and Everywoman Retail Ambassador 2013, Deryane said: “SAFW 2014 was a great success for us and created a fab buzz in the store. We sold lots of outfits on Super Shopping Saturday that had been featured in the show and our in-store event was a fantastic success – the week ended up at a 67 per cent increase in profit on last year. Everyone really enjoyed the event and it was such a positive experience.” Rebecca Grey, manager of Hobbs, was “over the moon” at the response to the Cathedral Catwalk Show on last year’s Super Shopping Saturday. “We doubled our normal takings on a Saturday and beat the Cambridge

and Brent Cross stores in sales,” she said. “I couldn’t have been happier.” Sylwia Rekas, store manager of French Connection St Albans, had to rearrange the shop floor to accommodate demand for the outfits which had featured in SAFW 2014’s Cathedral Catwalk Show. “Our regional manager attended the show and couldn’t believe how beautiful it was,” she said.

Ellena Ophira, SAFW founder and organiser, said: “We’re so proud of what we’ve achieved during the last two events and are very excited to be bringing SAFW back for what we hope will be our best year yet.”

Fashion forward

SAFW is about so much more than the one annual event everyone sees. All year round, Ellena and her team work behind the scenes to promote local creativity and talent.

Primary to this is Creative Next Generation (CNG), SAFW’s student initiative that aims to unearth, guide and support local talented young people. The addition of another Cathedral Catwalk Show provides many more opportunities for students across a range of areas including fashion, marketing, media and film, photography, graphic design and event management. As a result, the SAFW team have cast a wider net and will be working with more education establishments across the district. Twice as many students than last year have already applied to take part and the team has been inundated with fashion student applications to showcase their collections on the catwalk.

THE DETAILS Tickets for all shows and events are limited and are on sale now from www.stalbansfashionweek.com ••••• Tickets for the Cathedral Catwalk Shows will be sold directly from the Cathedral’s box office, www.stalbanscathedral.org ••••• For information on all the events and offers over SAFW, please head to the website www.stalbansfashionweek.com O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5 1 1

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WINE TIME ZEFINO prides itself on selecting a premium portfolio of exclusive wines and spirits direct from the world’s finest vineyards, producers and importers for our clients to enjoy

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ocal father and son, Mich and Darren Gratte, have collaborated with Hungarian wine expert, Ferenc Zelenak, to create the newly opened independent wine and spirits boutique, Zefino, located on George Street, St Albans.

When the wine loving Grattes connected with the knowledge and expertise of a Hungarian whose family’s grape growing and winemaking experience spans nearly 300 years, the result was the latest exciting addition to the St Alban’s high street.

Offering high quality, exclusive lines and a wide range of accompanying services – including an in-house sommelier, speciality wine tastings and wholesale for independent restaurants, hotels and wine merchants - the exquisitely fitted out shop, designed and put together by Mich himself, is an inviting space.

The ground floor features a large selection of premium wines and spirits, personally selected by Ferenc and displayed alongside the work of local artists. Zefino stocks wine from all over the world, from the traditional wine-making regions to the more off the beaten track such as Lebanon and Uruguay, and hosts the largest selection of Hungarian wines in the UK. Head downstairs to the surprisingly spacious wine cellar. Here the Zefino experience continues with regular evening wine tasting events led by respected international oenologists, wine sommeliers and importers from Ferenc’s personal address book.

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This is not your typical high street outlet. The wine selection is unique. Wines are personally sourced – Zefino buys only from people they know and trust, spending time visiting the wine makers in their own vineyards.They source directly, cutting out the middleman, stocking wines that are unavailable anywhere else in the UK. Wine prices range from a respectable £12 a bottle through to the hundreds for the more unusual and exclusive wines. Their spirits collection features brands that look as good on the shelf as they taste. Brightly coloured tequila bottles and the aptly named Bathtub Gin are bound to catch your eye.

And if you love wine but need a bit of help with your selection, Ferenc is happy to help and will share his knowledge of fine wine without intimidating. If you are looking for the right wine to serve with your dinner party menu, call the Hungarian. It won’t be long before you have him on speed dial.

THE DETAILS Visit www.zefino.co.uk to join the mailing list and receive details of Zefino’s wine tasting events and exclusive wine specials.

••••• 01727 852 545 3 George Street, St Albans AL3 4ER

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Add a touch of luxury to your Christmas Party Enjoy a fun-filled party night in the run up to Christmas at Warren Weir, Luton Hoo.

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here are plenty of opportunities to get into the festive spirit with family, friends and colleagues at Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa. The luxury five-star retreat is hosting a series of special Christmas Party Nights this December in Luton Hoo’s stunning waterside events village, Warren Weir.

Celebrate in style

Make this year’s family or office Christmas party one to really remember. Luton Hoo’s stylish party nights will be held in Warren Weir on Friday 4th, Saturday 5th, Friday 11th, Saturday 12th, Thursday 17th, Friday 18th, Saturday 19th, Sunday 20th and Monday 21st.

The evenings get off to a sparkling start with a welcome glass of Champagne, followed by a delicious three-course meal and a half bottle of wine for each guest. The choice of starters includes butternut squash veloute, oak smoked Scottish salmon or ham hock and confit chicken pressing. In addition to traditional roast turkey with all the trimmings, there is a pan fried seabass or Portobello mushroom Wellington to choose for the main course. For dessert there is Christmas pudding with warm brandy butter sauce, dark chocolate torte, or lemon cheesecake, followed by coffee and mini mince pies.

Afterwards guests can dance the night away or just relax and enjoy the party until the early hours. Whatever you decide to do, the party nights are the perfect excuse to get all of your friends, family and colleagues together and have

a fun and memorable evening.

The festive evenings at Warren Weir start from £74 per person, which includes the Champagne reception, meal, wine and party.

Make a night of it

After the party, why not make a night of it and stay over at Luton Hoo? The hotel is offering a special accommodation rate to Christmas party guests of £150 per room. The price includes a traditional English breakfast the following morning and use of the spa and wellness facilities.

The party nights are part of Luton Hoo’s extensive programme of Christmas and New Year events, which also include festive fayre in the magnificent Wernher Restaurant in the Mansion House from December 2nd to 24th, and a special festive menu in the relaxed Country Club restaurant, Adam’s Brasserie from December 1st to Christmas Eve. THE DETAILS For further information, or to book a party night, visit www.lutonhoo.co.uk or call 01582 734437.

••••• Luton Hoo Hotel, Golf & Spa, The Mansion House, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3TQ

Party Night T&Cs: £10.00 deposit per person is required at the time of booking with the final balance and menu choice to be settled 6 weeks before the event. Deposit and final balance are non refundable or transferrable. Guests are advised to take insurance against cancellation. Parties under 8 will be on a shared table.

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When only the best will do

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allery Rouge has created an enviable reputation for not only identifying artists early in their careers, but also for supporting and nurturing their development and growth. Instrumental in creating wider awareness of these artists’ works, Gallery Rouge prides itself on showcasing the widest selection available from each of them. This month we focus on the fantastic talents of two superb artists, who have each held two highly acclaimed exhibitions at Gallery Rouge.

Kerry Darlington – Artist of the Year 2012, 2014

Such has been the meteoric rise of this ‘Welsh Lass’, it is hard to immediately absorb. Since her humble beginnings with Gallery Rouge in 2007, she held her first solo exhibition at Gallery Rouge St Albans in 2009 and has never looked back. With a diverse and

expansive repertoire of styles ranging from abstracts to figurative, Kerry Darlington has garnered a large following of enthusiasts. In her latest work entitled ‘Celtic Twilight’ one is invited into her magical world of fantasy and escapism. Through her newest piece ‘Bird of Hera’ Kerry effortless captures the spirituality of the female form.

www.galleryrouge.co.uk 1 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

David Renshaw

Arguably one of the finest modern landscape painters in the UK, David Renshaw is renowned for his ability to effortlessly depict the mood of the sky. Whether it’s the Scottish Highlands, the Welsh borders or the Italian Lakes, David captures the essence of each location beautifully. Not content with stunning landscapes, David demonstrates his more playful side in a series of works entitled ‘The Northern Romance’ collection. His last exhibition at Gallery Rouge Harpenden in 2014 was a roaring success, with original paintings still available at incredibly reasonable prices. Don’t wait for too long though, as prices will surely start rising rapidly soon.

To see the fuller collection of works available from Kerry and David, and to learn about other exceptionally talented artists, visit www.galleryrouge.co.uk. Alternatively why not visit either of the two galleries and discuss your art collecting desires with the knowledgeable and experienced consultants.

Opposite page, clockwise from top left: Bird of Hera; Celtic twilight; Midnight Gold; Little Lace Tree, all by Kerry Darlington. This page, clockwise from top: Retreat at Sunrise; Hold On To You; Love Lanterns, all by David Renshaw

78 High Street, Harpenden, AL5 2SP | harpenden@galleryrouge.co.uk | 01582 760332 27 Chequer Street, St Albans, AL1 3YJ | stalbans@galleryrouge.co.uk | 01727 860401 october O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5 1 7

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a warm welcome

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ituated in the heart of Bengeo, Hertford, you’ll find Duncombe School, a warm and welcoming school that understands how important it is for children to feel settled and part of a community.

Every child is encouraged and challenged to ensure they thrive in their educational environment, taking advantage of the wonderful learning opportunities surrounding them.

Duncombe School is a co-educational Preparatory and Pre-Prep for children aged 2 to 11 years, offering small classes with committed, enthusiastic teachers who really get to know your child and who make a hugely positive impact to their learning.

In 2014 both Duncombe School and Duncombe Treetops Nursery were awarded 100% Outstanding in their SIS inspection report. The school continues to go from strength to strength with Duncombe School’s Early Years Foundation Leader Mrs Katie Copeman being awarded the Cognita Europe ‘Award for Excellence’ for the Early Years a Foundation Stage. The award recognises teachers and staff whose work inside and outside the classroom exemplify excellence and provide inspiration to others.

Mr Jeremy Phelan, Headmaster of Duncombe School, believes that learning shouldn’t be confined to the classroom; in light of this Duncombe Treetops Nursery is part of the ‘Forest School’ Programme. This programme offers a unique educational experience aimed to encourage and inspire individuals to learn and build on self-confidence and self-esteem through exploration, investigation and outside discovery through Duncombe Schools onsite woodland, ‘The Dell’. Activities are carefully planned to meet the aims of the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum as well as the principles of Forest School.

Working alongside their outstanding academic provision

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Duncombe School offers a wealth of co-curricular opportunities where children can experience high quality sport, music, art, drama, ICT, design and technology and public speaking to name but a few.

Within the summary of main findings the SIS inspection report stated that ‘Duncombe School is highly effective in achieving its aims. The quality of education that is provided to meet the pupils’ individual needs, including children in the Early Years Foundation Stage, is outstanding’. This quote is substantiated as Duncombe School pupils have been awarded over 20 Scholarships and awards with a 100% pass rate for Independent Schools in both 2014 and 2015.

Offering wrap around care and holiday provisions for all of their children (2-11 years), Duncombe School believes that this builds on their family atmosphere for the lengthened day and during Christmas, Easter and Summer holidays.

Headmaster Mr Phelan said ‘At Duncombe School we ensure our pupils are provided with a fully rounded education from when they join us at 2 years in Treetops right through to preparing them for the success of Senior School. Our achievements as a school are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the staff, pupils and the support of parents’.

If you would like to visit or find out more about Duncombe School and their forthcoming events, including our Open Day on Friday 13th November, please contact the school on 01992 414100.

THE DETAILS Duncombe School, 4 Warren Park Road, Bengeo, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 3JA ••••• 01992 414100 www.duncombe-school.co.uk

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Fundraising

with a sparkle Christopher Wharton, owner of Wharton Goldsmith, an award winning family jewellers in the heart of St Albans, is turning his skill and talent to help raise money for St Albans Cathedral.

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harton, a master jeweller for over 40 years, was inspired by the Alban’s Angels campaign, to raise money for the Cathedral’s project, ‘Alban, Britain’s First Saint.’ Funds are being raised to provide a new welcome centre and learning centre with the hope that these new developments will raise the Cathedral’s national profile, secure its future and bring many more people to St Albans to experience this historic city.

‘The Cathedral has always been a big part of Wharton Goldsmith,’ says Christopher, ‘ We have a beautiful view of it from our courtyard at the back of our workshop and we’re proud to see it everyday.

We believe that it is an integral part of our City and we decided to create The Alban Collection in order to celebrate our heritage, whilst also raising money for this worthwhile cause.’

The Alban Collection is an original jewellery collection, designed by Christopher himself, inspired by elements of St Albans and the Cathedral. Every penny of the profits will be donated to the Cathedral’s cause. Christopher says, ‘We wanted to be a part of the fundraising activity, to give people the opportunity to support the Cathedral whilst being able to keep something that reminds them of the place that they love so much.

Original design and bespoke creation are at the heart of all we offer at Wharton Goldsmith, so it’s been our pleasure to put this collection together. ’ From earrings, to bracelets, necklaces and rings, Christopher has captured the essence of the design and architecture and immortalised them in unique pieces of jewellery. ‘When I was revisiting the Cathedral to find inspiration, I started recognising motifs and design features that I had completely overlooked. Living and working so close to the Cathedral, you can take for granted just how beautiful it is- and it’s this detail that I wanted to capture.’

The collection will epitomise Wharton’s iconic style; classic with a contemporary flare, ‘All the pieces are highly 2 0 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

wearable, being designed to be as stylish as they are symbolic. Even if you don’t make the connection between the pieces and the Cathedral, you will still be able to enjoy the jewellery and appreciate the story behind them.’

Every piece has been carefully handcrafted in Christopher Wharton’s George Street workshop, a stone’s throw away from the Cathedral.

The Cathedral are delighted with this generous contribution, ‘We are very grateful to Wharton Goldsmith for supporting us during such an important time for the Cathedral, and really hope that the profit from this beautiful jewellery collection will go a long way to helping us meet our eventual target of £3 million.’ Expresses Helena O’Sullivan, Marketing and Friend’s Assistant at the Cathedral.

The Alban Collection will be previewed at the Abbey Gala Fundraising Dinner which will be held in the Nave of the Cathedral on 10th October. Guests will be treated to an exhibition showcasing the creation process as well as a preview of The Alban Collection in full. The Alban Collection will vary in price, starting from just £50.00. It will be available for purchase from the Wharton Goldsmith showroom at No.1 George Street, St Albans from October.

Pre Orders are currently being taken.

Christopher says, ‘It’s a Collection that I’m very proud of and one that I hope will grow and continue for years.’

THE DETAILS Wharton Goldsmith, 1-2 George Street, St. Albans Hertfordshire, AL3 4ER ••••• 01727 859489 www.whartongoldsmith.com

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Gallery 1066 launches new Designer

JewelleRy range from Madrid

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‘Uno de 50’

ith the run up to Christmas Gallery 1066 is at the forefront if you are looking for innovative gift ideas, as one of the leading art galleries in Hertfordshire and the Home Counties, Gallery 1066 is proud to announce their new partnership with leading Madrid brand ‘Uno de 50’.

This exciting Jewelley collection known for its ‘builtto-last’ quality, is carefully handmade in Madrid and every piece comes with a 2 year guarantee. Uno de 50 is instantly recognised by its unique style and unmistakeable character - not forgetting the Swarovski crystals and their trademark iconic Padlock logo which have been featured in Vogue, Elle and Glamour magazines across Europe - the boho meets rock chic jewellery brand has taken the fashion world by storm Uno de 50 is opening flagship stores in Regent Street, Covent Garden and Kings Road as well as in the world’s leading fashion capitals such as Rome, Milan and New York. Gallery 1066 is proud to be their official partner in Hertfordshire and welcome the reaction to such an exciting and prestigious jewellery brand. Uno de 50 jewellery will be launched at both Gallery 1066 and their sister gallery, London Row International Fine Art this October.

Alongside this stunning jewellery collection there is also an array of beautiful ladies silk, wool and cashmere wraps, scarves and fur gilet and capes at affordable prices.

If you are looking for something for the home the galleries also offer a beautiful collection of original handmade glassware and sculpture from both the UK and Italy which complement the eclectic range of wall art from artists they are proud to represent from around the world.

Gallery 1066 believes art comes in many guises and it is their passion to bring a wealth of unique works of art to you. Whether it is for the home or work place please take advantage of their free art consultancy and home approvals service – they are there to guide you and match you with your perfect piece of art.

A gallery with a difference, with an informal and relaxed atmosphere Gallery 1066 offers home approvals, art consultancy, private commissions and affordable art for everyone. With an interest free finance and art insurance package in place there is no better time than now to buy 2 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

your first work of art.

Take a trip to this historic coaching town of Baldock, enjoy it’s café culture and be inspired with beautiful works of art in this stunning 3,500 sq ft gallery which is nestled down a cobbled mews - a friendly, warm welcome awaits you.

Today Uno de 50 is present in over 42 countries with more than 100 stores in main cities around the world Madrid, Rome, Milan, Berlin, New York, Miami, Tokyo, Moscow, Panama, Paris..., keeping its philosophy of exclusiveness through a highly crafted production process.

And now Gallery 1066 is proud to be their official partner in Hertfordshire. Please come along to see this exclusive brand in the gallery.

THE DETAILS For more information please contact Hayley Norman info@gallery1066fineart.com www.gallery1066fineart.com T: 01462 622233 / 896164 ••••• Gallery 1066 Fine Art Ltd Willow Mews, 6a Hitchin Street Baldock, Herts. SG7 6AE

LOVE LOC AL

Laura Ashley, The Manor

T

he Manor Hotel, Elstree is a beautifully proportioned, classic timbered Tudor revival mansion, nestled within lushly colourful landscaped gardens, surrounded and protected by ten acres of completely natural woodland. It offers a completely unique haven, deep in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, a remarkably peaceful retreat yet barely twenty minutes from all the attractions of central London’s theatres, museums and shops. Those not wishing to venture too far from the comforts of the hotel are also well

assistance, answers to any questions you may have and service perfectly paced to your needs. Cuisine is an award-winning blend of seasonal English dishes with carefully chosen ingredients freshly sourced from a trusted team of local producers. The extensive and well-chosen wine list, ranges from new world options to premier traditional old world varieties and there is always sound advice on hand as to which wine will best complement which dish.

The range of delicious choices on the menu are changed quarterly during the year, allowing Chef to work with seasonal selections. The choice changes also provide fresh fare for those guests and visitors who have become faithful regulars. Private dining here is also an option, should you have a special celebration for family and friends which you’d prefer to be more intimate, with your own designated dining room.

Guests or visitors seeking a lighter menu or simply tea, coffee, drinks or snacks are not forgotten and are exceedingly well catered for in the elegant LA Bar and Terrace which, with the same stunning views, offers cosy comfort and cushions in the winter months and sunshine and sun-umbrellas outside when its warmer.

It offers a completely unique haven, deep in the heart of the Hertfordshire countryside, a remarkably peaceful retreat catered for, with a number of famous local attractions to visit, including the Warner Bros Studio and Hendon Air Museum.

As well as providing a picture-perfect hideaway, The Manor is an idyllic venue for a wedding or indeed for any kind of celebration to be enjoyed with family and friends.

Of course, however delightful the surroundings, wining and dining play a large part in the enjoyment of any stay and here again, the Manor does not disappoint.

The impressive AA Rosette, Cavendish Restaurant, invites you to sit back, relax and relish some delicious meals, whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner. The Cavendish is a beautifully proportioned, wood-panelled delight of a room but your eye will be drawn to the windows overlooking the carefully manicured gardens, (look out for the magnificent giant chess board on the lawn) as well as the stretches of countryside beyond and, in the distance, some of London’s most significant landmarks. The view during the day is spectacular, once night falls, it’s magical as the lights of London sparkle before you.

The well-trained restaurant staff offer unobtrusive, 2 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

THE DETAILS Laura Ashley The Manor, Elstree Barnet Lane, Elstree WD6 3RE ••••• 020 8953 8227 www.lauraashleyhotels.com/The-Manor

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LOVE LOC AL

Create the perfect winter outfit W

ith Autumn now upon us and the nights drawing in, this is a time when most shops are filling their shelves with the overwhelming sparkle of Christmas…but at St Albans’ premier menswear store, D Copperfield, we take a more practical approach.

We have been preparing for this Autumn/Winter season for a while now – in fact, it’s always our favourite time of year… time for the best fabrics, styles and ways to express yourself in clothing.

We have introduced some amazing new brands for the season and strengthened the brands that we know our customers love. We are having another strong selection with Stone Island, a brand renowned as innovators in fabric production and design – and this season’s range is no different. The new technologies they introduce into menswear are astounding, and it’s all built from its origins over thirty years ago under the CP Company label, another great brand that is performing well for us.

With this technical heritage, it’s no surprise that the current head design team for CP Company have created another brand just as focused on quality and innovation as CP and Stone Island: TEN C. The Emperors New Clothes, to give it its full name, is yet another boundary pusher. A collection of very few pieces, completely unbranded, built to last forever and to live and age with you. Mainly focused on the Japanese jersey, TEN C have created a coat that will mould to your body the more you wear it. Creating a timeless jacket isn’t easy, as seasons change and jackets are often lost in the backs of cupboards or in wardrobes, but TEN C have made the collection in modular form – so that the wearer can add or remove layers to the coat to gain warmth where needed.

This jersey will, with time, mould itself almost imperceptibly to your body and will acquire, with use, a unique individual patina; each jacket reflecting its own personal history and that of its user. It will become Your Jacket.

Another winter-ready brand for us this season is Fracap, 2 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

Above: TEN C Japanese jersey parka and removable shearling liner; This image: Fracap handmade leather scarponcino boots (Photo: Abbie Smith)

an Italian shoe manufacturer which dates all the way back to the 19th century. Fracap has been a family-run business ever since its creation and is now a leader in handmade boots, including the production of Italian naval, army and Carabinieri uniform boots.

These hiking boots are handmade in Lecce, Italy and have only recently been available in the UK, having been a huge success in Japan. They combine style, comfort and functionality into everyday wear. The use of vibram soles makes the boots a lot lighter then most and adds that extra comfort under foot.

Combining both brands with another winner for us, Edwin jeans, creates the perfect winter outfit…ready for any weather or any terrain, but all built with the highest quality and durability.

You’ll be ready for the outdoors, whatever the winter weather throws at you.

THE DETAILS 3-5 Chequer street, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL1 3YJ ••••• 01727 835175 www.dcopperfield.co.uk

LOVE LOC AL

FOR HIM:

Sorel Men’s Caribou Boot (£130)

Wrap-Up In Style this Autumn / Winter with new and exclusive ranges available at Cotswold Outdoor

A

vailable this autumn / winter, the Men’s Flannel Shirt (£45) from Ayacucho comes in Petrol Check and Rust Check. Boasting a super-soft, durable cotton fabric, it provides excellent warmth and comfort, and is on trend – perfect for country walks, city sightseeing, and laid-back outdoor activities.

The Men’s Salvo Jacket (£130) from Rab is a midweight soft-shell jacket. Highly versatile, it suits most outdoor pursuits, making it perfect for everything from mountaineering to windy walks.

A firm favourite, the Sorel Men’s Caribou Boot (£130), also available in Women’s, offers unrivalled warmth, comfort and protection in cold and wet winter weather. Comprising a waterproof nubuck leather upper to protect against rain, a ThermoPlus felt inner for warmth, and a seam sealed waterproof construction, this boot is effective in temperatures as low as -40 °C – perfect for winter holidays and après ski.

Men’s Flannel Shirt (£45)

Men’s Salvo Jacket (£130)

Highly versatile, it suits most outdoor pursuits, making it perfect for everything from mountaineering to windy walks

Foldsack No.2 from Fjällräven (£125)

The ultra-soft Men’s Banff Colorblock Wool Shirt (£68) from United By Blue is also available for pre-order now. Wrinkle-resistant, it is perfect for travelling, making it ideal for those looking for a bit of winter sun.

The Foldsack No.2 from Fjällräven (£125) is a stylish shoulder bag, ideal for travelling as well as day-to-day life.

With enough space to hold your essentials as well as a laptop, it’s also perfect for commuting.

THE DETAILS 91 Victoria St, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3TJ Tel: 01727 847888 ••••• For more of Cotswold Outdoor’s great AW15 range, please visit: www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/new-season

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Men’s Banff Colorblock Wool Shirt (£68)

LOVE LOC AL

FOR

HER:

Prana’s Women’s Maison Leggings (£58)

United By Blue Women’s Highlands Blanket Scarf (£45)

From fashionable footwear to cosy coats, Cotswold Outdoor’s new autumn / winter range will see you through this season, and beyond.

T

he Didriksons Women’s Angelina Parka (£240) is a fun, vibrant and stylish coat, and with its luxurious faux fur trim, it not only looks great, but also offers excellent protection from the elements.

Whether you’re facing rain, wind or even snow, the Angelina Parka will ensure you stay warm and well protected, allowing you to stay in the great outdoors for as long as you desire.

Exclusive to Cotswold Outdoor, the United By Blue Women’s Highlands Blanket Scarf (£45) is made from a wool and recycled polyester blend, providing optimum warmth and comfort. What’s more, for each unit sold, one pound of litter will be removed from oceans and waterways by a team of volunteers - part of United By Blue’s ‘Cleanup’ initiative.

The pretty Women’s SilippaM Snow Top (£75) from Maloja is super soft and comfortable, and with its unique print and bright colours it’s perfect for those looking to add a bit of fun to their winter wardrobe. The Women’s Nordic Wood Jumper (£60) from Ayacucho, available in Oatmeal and Grey, is another great stylish and cosy jumper, ideal for brisk walks or for lounging around in front of a warm fire.

Part of Buff ’s brand new hat range, this colourful Knitted Hat (£27.25) is ideal for the winter months, keeping you warm whilst ensuring you remain stylish. Pair with the matching Knitted and Polar Fleece Neckwarmer Multi-Coloured (£25.50), which is bright and thick and will keep you snug in the cold. Break free from the monochrome colours of everyday life and add a splash of colour to your winter fitness wardrobe with Prana’s Women’s Maison Leggings (£58). Made from stretchy material, they allow for a large range of movement, and with a handy pocket for keys they’re perfect for runners.

THE DETAILS

Didriksons Women’s Angelina Parka (£240)

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Women’s SilippaM Snow Top (£75)

91 Victoria St, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 3TJ Tel: 01727 847888 ••••• For more of Cotswold Outdoor’s great AW15 range, please visit: www.cotswoldoutdoor.com/new-season

Knitted Hat (£27.25), Knitted and Polar Fleece Neckwarmer MultiColoured (£25.50)

Women’s Nordic Wood Jumper (£60)

LOVE LOC AL

Peter Rabbit™ Adventure Playground plans unveiled

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illows Activity Farm in St.Albans, Hertfordshire, has today unveiled the construction plans for its new Peter Rabbit themed play area, due to open in April 2016. The area, to be named the ‘Peter Rabbit™ Adventure Playground’ will be 1,400 square metres in size and aims to encourage active, imaginative and wholesome play for children.

It will have ten activities themed around the worldfamous and much-loved Peter Rabbit characters, including the Mrs Tiggy-Winkle Kitchen, a Jeremy Fisher Musical Pond and Benjamin Bunny Treetop Adventure.

The new play attraction will open to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the birth of Beatrix Potter, author of the original books.

area as well as the branding and re-theming of some existing areas on site.”

Johan Granholm, Director of Lappset Creative said: “It’s been great working to develop the bespoke play areas that fit each character so well. We aim to help children learn through play, and every aspect of the Peter Rabbit Adventure Playground will encourage each child’s development and creativity in a fun, engaging way.”

Peter Rabbit has recently been brought to the next generation of fans on the CBeebies channel by Silvergate Media, co-producers and global licensing agent of the hit CGI animated TV series.

Thomas Merrington, VP Brand & Creative, Silvergate Media said: “We wanted to bring Peter Rabbit to life for

The new play attraction will open to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the birth of Beatrix Potter The play area’s centrepiece will be The Peter Rabbit Secret Treehouse, built around a 100 year old ash tree at Willows Activity Farm. All of the play equipment has been developed by Lappset Creative, a leading manufacturer of themed playground attractions.

Andrew Wolfe, Chief Executive of Willows Activity Farm said: “we are delighted to announce Peter Rabbit’s arrival at Willows in April next year. Willows has always been committed to offering families fun days out, and we’ve worked tirelessly with our partners Silvergate Media and Lappset Creative to develop the new Peter Rabbit area that will have huge appeal to our loyal members and customers. ”We were keen to integrate the new play activities with the beautiful natural environment at Willows, and Lappset have ensured that, that vision was reflected in an area that is exciting and stimulating for families yet respects the countryside setting of Willows.We have invested over £1 million in this development – that includes the planned 3 2 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

children who love watching the animated series. The new Peter Rabbit is a playful re-imagining of Beatrix Potter’s timeless children’s classic and has been a hit with parents and children alike. The beautiful countryside setting, coupled with their focus on wholesome, active play makes Willows the perfect place to do this. 2016 marks 150 years of Beatrix Potter and this is a fabulous way to ensure her most famous creation, Peter Rabbit will be enjoyed for generations to come.”

He continued: “Each of the Peter Rabbit characters has a personality and we’ve worked with Lappset Creative and Willows Activity Farm to bring that out in each activity area. This will be the first of its kind in the world and the plans look fantastic – I know that Peter Rabbit fans will absolutely love it!”

For more information visit www.willowsactivityfarm.com or follow @Willows_Farm on Twitter for all the latest updates.

LOVE LOC AL

“The best kept secret in Hertfordshire is available to all” Improve your golf with excellent tuition and state of the art facilities What’s on offer at the Brocket Golf Academy?

We welcome all golfers who wish to learn and improve; The Brocket Hall Academy is open to both visitors and members alike.

We offer a variety of services at The Academy which are tailored to your specific needs: • Practice memberships • Specialised 1 on 1 lessons • Junior schools programme • Corporate entertainment sessions • Group lessons/ clinics • Trackman swing analysis We provide a wide range of variety for our lessons.

Unlike normal driving ranges, we give lessons off turf; learn about course management on one of our golf courses; improve your short game in our dedicated, purpose built area; or even use our indoor virtual swing analysis technology, Trackman and iPad Video Coaching.

If you hear yourself saying “I should be getting better after this time”, it’s time to change your approach. Our approach to helping you will solely be based around your individual requirements How can the Academy’s approach help you?

How was your golf this year?

Simon Garner, Head Professional has been at Brocket Hall for 15 years and a golf professional for 26 years, his experience and the fantastic facilities are a perfect way to improve your game, whether you are a regular club golfer or an aspiring beginner.

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If you hear yourself saying “I should be getting better after this time”, it’s time to change your approach. Our approach to helping you will solely be based around your individual requirements. Everything we do to help you will be personalised as part of our coaching club programme; whether it be to fix a current issue or a longer term goal of refining your swing and lowering your handicap. We

strongly believe that there is not a single fix that suits all.

Most importantly, our approach and our facilities create an enjoyable environment, which you will leave feeling better about your game.

Our client’s feedback tells us we are different. We are full time coaches, whose job is to focus on you. We customise your programme of development to suit your needs and won’t just administer a swing change or a new grip each lesson, we discuss many options and any limitations you may have and agree on a plan. Each body is different and as part of our coaching plan we may utilise support networks such as physios, osteopaths or Pilates sessions to aid your development.

If you’re looking to improve your game, here are 5 suggestions to help you moving forward:

1. Personalised Coaching Coaching to a personalised plan with an experienced, knowledgeable coach should be a priority if you want to improve and enjoy your game. Good coaching will save you time in the long run.

2. Spend time on the putting green Putting is the key to a low score and its fun especially when you hole a putt to win! It’s one of the simplest ways to save about 5 shots a round either by not 3 putting (or more) or by holing more puts from 5-10 feet. A good putt starts with a good read, and then good aim. At Brocket Hall we provide help on length and alignment issues, and can fit your putter for ideal weight balance.

3. Prepare for your round!

Physical improvement is an area we feel strongly about at Brocket Hall. Being physically ready or capable will reduce injury and pain, most players don’t even warm up! If you turn up to the first tee, rushed and unprepared physically and mentally, then your golf will suffer as a result.

4. Use Equipment that can help you Equipment is crucial as it has to match your swing and be fitted to you. Juniors are particularly a concern but all players are unique and with today’s vast equipment selection, it can be used to really improve your golf game.

5. Know your distances Knowing your yardages for all your clubs is vital, otherwise you are guessing with each shot. Often golfers do not consider the weather conditions, the length of the swing and the lie of the ball when deciding their club selection. Through Trackman technology and a playing lesson we can measure your yardages and document them for the player.

THE DETAILS For more information on the Golf Academy at Brocket Hall, please contact the team on 01707 368700 or simon.garner@brocket-hall.co.uk.

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LOVE LOC AL

BABY

LOVE S

earching for the perfect gift for a new baby? Let us help you. We are Hugo Ouigo, a brand new St Albans based brand specialising in luxury, 100% cotton, customised baby clothing in sizes newborn to 18 months.

Our vision is to sell only beautiful, entirely unique items for your baby, or a baby that you are gifting, that you simply could not find anywhere else on the high street.

Every item purchased from Hugo Ouigo will be made with love, care and perfection especially for each individual customer, and we think this is what makes us rather special.

Our completely personalisable first range; Hugo’s Little Recipes capture your little one’s “ingredients” in their very own custom made recipe. With a diverse range of recipe designs and colours to choose from plus a growing range of outfit varieties, there is something to suit every baby.

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Whether it’s a ½ pint of Mummy’s Smile and a pinch of Daddy’s charm or a sprinkle of sweetness and a dollop of cheekiness, we can custom the recipe text to say whatever you desire.

We believe our recipe concept is different from anything else you can currently find on the market. Not to mention every order will arrive delicately and beautifully hand gift wrapped, making a wholly individual and treasurable gift, perfect for newborns, christenings, baby showers, first birthdays, Christmas and other special occasions.

THE DETAILS Phone: 07495 460170 Email: info@hugoouigo.co.uk www.hugoouigo.co.uk

Office: 01707 592020 • Mobile: 07540 568000 • charlesworthclassics-weddings@outlook.com

St Albans Wedding Cars Welcome to Charlesworth Classics Wedding Cars. We are a family-run business based at Hatfield House with classic, vintage and iconic vehicles for a different arrival to your wedding. All of our vehicles are maintained in our own garage.

Your expectations are our standard, to exceed them is our goal

Jaguar XJR

Rolls Royce

London Taxi

A stunning British classic which brings back memories of The Long Good Friday, The Sweeney and Arthur Daley.

A truly British icon. Arrive in a 1970 vintage Rolls Royce and feel like the film stars such as Michael Caine. *UNDER RESTORATION*

Theme your wedding in a London style with this authentic London Taxi, with plenty of space for the bride and her dress. Also great as a second car.

Available in red or white.

www.stalbansweddingcars.co.uk

Image: Burberry Prorsum at London Fashion Week

HEALTH, BEAUTY

& FASHION

fashion HOUSE BEAUTY h ous e && GARDEN HOUSE ga GARDEN rden

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fashion H &&ga BEAUTY BEAUTY hEALTH ous e & rden

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HEALTH HhEALTH & ga BEAUTY ous e & rden

Palette it go Make-up artists love them. Beauty bloggers can’t live with out them. But if you happen upon a palette in the average make-up bag, chances are one shade will be almost completely obliterated, while the others remain virtually untouched. Hopefully, that kind of favouritism will be a thing of the past when you set your eyes on autumn’s multi-hued make-up sets, packed as they are with covetable colours.

By Katie Wright, Press Association

A

nd we’re not just talking eyeshadows either lips, cheeks, brows and zygomatic arches (that’s cheekbones, dear) are all catered for. From everyday essentials to glam going-out kits, these are the palettes to get pally with this season...

THE CAMO COLLECTION

Inspired by the camouflage print seen on the catwalk, Burberry’s Limited Edition Autumn/ Winter 2015 Runway Palette, £50, combines nude beige, khaki green and black eyeshadows, plus three tiny brushes, in one very chic compact. These dense, moody hues work particularly well with brown and hazel eyes (www.burberry.com).

Burberry Limited Edition Autumn/ Winter 2015 Runway Palette, available from burberry.com

THE CHEEKY TRIO

Sail away with Sleek’s trio of blushers, part of the limited edition Nautical Collection. The Blush By 3 in Santa Marina, £10, comprises bright Calypso Island coral, pale Phoenix Sand and plummy Coral Dune, offering a cheeky hue for every occasion (www.sleekmakeup.com).

Buy it now Following the success of the improbable-sounding-butactually-very-effective anti-ageing pillowcase, Iluminage has added to their range a Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask, which uses the same copper-infused fabric to target wrinkles overnight. Now that’s what we call beauty sleep.

Iluminage Skin Rejuvenating Eye Mask, £25 (www.selfridges.com)

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Sleek Blush by 3 in Santa Marina, available from sleekmakeup.com

Givenchy Metallic Reflection Collection, available from House of Fraser

THE ROSE QUARTZ QUAD

Give your smoky eye routine a seasonal switch, with the Givenchy Vinyl Prisme Quatuor Metallic Reflection set , £38.50, a quartet of pink and purplish tones. Start with one of three pearlescent shades then add definition with the matte red-black - the highly pigmented formula delivers long-lasting definition (www.houseoffraser.co.uk).

THE QUICKIE QUINTET

The perfect portable kit for easy eye make-up looks, Clarins 5-Colour Eye Palette Pretty Day, £33, pools five wearable shades, from palest nude through to shimmering chocolate.

Keep it in your handbag or desk drawer for instant afterwork transformations (www.clarins.co.uk).

Clarins 5-Colour Pretty Day Eye Palette, available from clarins.co.uk

Illamasqua’s Sculpting Palette, available from illamasqua.com

the H&M Eye Shadow Palette, available from hm.com

The Models Own Chrome Eyeshadow Palette, available from modelsownit.com

range, H&M’s Eye Shadow Palette, £9.99, is a good place to start if you want to expand your eye make-up repertoire beyond the usual browns and nudes. The nine-colour collection adds greens, greys and blue into the mix, but the shades are still muted enough to make them easy to wear (www.hm.com).

B. Kissable Palette, available from Superdrug

Lead image: Thinkstockphotos; All other images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

THE SCULPTOR’S SET

Fans of contouring will adore Illamasqua’s Sculpting Palette, £44, which goes way beyond the usual duo of dark and light powders. Featuring two highlighters and four darker hues, the line-up cleverly includes ash and bronze shades, so you can tailor the warmth of your cheekboneenhancing shadow (www.illamasqua.com).

THE LIPSTICK SIX

The B. Kissable Palette, £9.99, brings together half a dozen of the vegan make-up brand’s best-loved lippies, from the dusky rose Doll’s House to super-bright Lollipop, giving you a whole new lipstick line-up for autumn. Given that a B. lipstick usually costs £7.99 a pop, it’s a major bargain too (www.superdrug.com).

THE MAC DADDY

Worthy of a YouTube beauty vlogger’s kit, MAC’s comprehensive Warm Neutral Palette, £65, runs the gamut from delicate to dark and matte to molten in no less than 15 shades, giving make-up mavens hours, if not years, of experimental fun (www.maccosmetics.co.uk).

THE FULL MAKE-UP MONTY

Split into three sections, the Smashbox Shape Matters Palette, £60, provides everything you need to whip your eyebrows into shape, contour and highlight your face and create a plethora of eyelid options, with nine different shadows.

Just add mascara to complete your shapely transformation (available September 16; www.smashbox.co.uk).

THE GOLD STANDARD

Housed in a gorgeous rose gold case, this Models Own Chrome Eyeshadow Palette, £5.99, takes the metallic trend to new heights, with six molten cream colours. Joining bronze, silver and gold (of course) are a shimmering dark brown, holographic white and galactic grey. (www.modelsownit.com).

THE AFFORDABLE ALL-ROUNDER

Smashbox Shape Matters Palette, available from smashbox.co.uk

MAC Warm Neutral Palette, available from maccosmetics.co.uk

Part of the Swedish fashion brand’s all-new cosmetics

Tried & tested

Anti-ageing chocolate - surely that’s too good to be true? Laura Wurzel finds out...

“I

magine if your daily anti-ageing regime involved munching chocolate? Well now apparently it can. As well as the usual antioxidant components, Esthechoc contains ‘ Astracells’, and promises to ‘enhance microcirculation and support oxygen saturation’ to promote healthy, younger-looking skin from the inside out.

“Before starting my 21-day trial, I do a simple swab test which is sent off to Esthechoc’s lab for analysis. The chocolates, which you eat once a day, come individually wrapped. Dark, thin squares, they taste just like normal chocolate and make a nice

post-lunch treat.

“My skin is normally very dry and uneven, but within two weeks of daily choccy treatment, my face seems to have a healthier glow. It feels smooth and soft and I don’t need to use as much moisturiser as usual. T he results of a second swab test at the end of the trial confirm that I’m not imagining the improvement in condition and skin tone. It’s just a shame a regular bar of chocolate doesn’t have the same magical effect...”

Esthechoc Cambridge Beauty Chocolate, £35 (www.harrods.com)

5/5

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HhEALTH & ga BEAUTY ous e & rden

Before

After 120 days

Before

After 90 days

The most effective facial W

EVER!!

ith Christmas just around the corner, nows the time to start preparing your skin so that you look simply more amazing at this year’s festivities. Our latest treatment at Riverbanks Clinic provides the most amazing lift that actually lasts up to 2 years after a single treatment. Read on to find out more…

Ultherapy is the only non-invasive treatment which has been scientifically proven to build collagen (up to 42% more collagen compared to doing nothing at all!), and therefore lift skin on the neck, under the chin and on the

and strengthen weak collagen. Over time, this results in the create of new, healthy, strong collagen and a variety of positive skin changes.

Some patients see an initial effect right after their treatment, but the real results appear over 2-3 months as new collagen builds, gradually lifting and tightening skin on the face and neck and smoothing skin on the chest.

Unlike lasers, radio-frequency and other technologies, Ultherapy bypasses the surface of the skin to deliver energy at optimal depths, temperature and precision. Also unique to Ultherapy is the use of ultrasound imaging

As the weeks went on, the results just got better and better – Heather, 46 eyebrow as well as reduce lines and wrinkles on the chest.

It delivers focussed ultrasound energy to the same foundational layer typically addressed during a facelift - but it does this WITHOUT cutting or disrupting the surface of the skin. This energy initiates the body’s natural response to stimulate the growth of fresh new collagen

waging allows the doctor to see the layers of t tissue they are treating, ensuring energy is delivered SAFELY and to where Citi will be most beneficial.

While Ultherapy does not duplicate the results of a facelift, its an exciting alternative for this who are not ready for surgery - and for patients who wish to extend the effects of cosmetic surgery.

THE DETAILS

Before

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After 180 days

Riverbanks Clinics won ‘Best Aesthetic Clinic’ in the UK three times from 2009 -– 2013.

••••• Feel free to visit our website www.riverbanksclinic.co.uk or call my friendly team on 01582762877.

Dr Rav i Jain

H HEALTH & ga BEAUTY hEALTH ous e & rden

Thousands of creams, serums and other beautifying concoctions are launched every year, not to mention mountains of make-up and fragrances, each clamouring for space in our shopping baskets.

By Katie Wright, Press Association

Simply the

bestsellers

I

n such a competitive market, it takes a truly remarkable product to stand out, so when sales soar, you know you’ve got a real winner on your hands (or face). In a bid to suss out the champs from the also-rans, we asked a clutch of our favourite cult brands to reveal what flies off the shelves fastest.

From body butter to blusher and scent to scrub, meet the beauty bestsellers...

THE HANDY HERO

More than 20 years since it debuted, L’Occitane L’Occitane Shea Butter Shea Butter Hand Cream, £19, Hand Cream, available remains the brand’s number from loccitane.com one seller. One tube of this rich but fastabsorbing formula is sold every three Illamasqua Hydra seconds - devotees won’t Veil, available from leave home without it their illamasqua.com mini tube (www.loccitane.com).

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THE PRO-APPROVED PRIMER

Make-up artists swear by Illamasqua Hydra Veil, £32, a silky gel that leaves skin superbly smooth and perfectly primed for make-up. The shiny jet black pot comes with a dinky scoop for measuring out the ideal dose to apply with a foundation brush o Malone Pomegranate Noir Cologne, (www.illamasqua.com). available from jomalone.co.uk

THE PERFECT PERFUME

It may be phenomenally popular, but this is no lowest common denominator or onenote wonder scent. Jo Malone Pomegranate Noir Cologne, £85 for 100ml, is bold, succulent and unforgettable The Body Shop’s Tea (www.jomalone.co.uk).

Tree Oil, available from

THE CALMING BALM

thebodyshop.co.uk

The tea tree has long been harnessed for its blemish-busting and skin-calming properties.

The Body Shop’s Tea Tree Oil, £8, is Fairtrade, organic and a bargain to boot. No

Tried & tested

tries a unique new collagen-boosting facial from high-tech brand Environ

“M

y facial starts off in the usual manner with a consultation, where my therapist Haley makes recommendations for my diet [more water] and skin [more eye cream], followed by a thorough triple cleanse to remove all my make-up.

“Then comes the science bit. After applying a peptide-rich serum, a probe is moved slowly over my face, emitting a low-frequency sound wave that creates reservoirs under the skin, drawing the serum in deeper. Apart from a couple of points near my ears where it feels

like tinnitus, it’s not uncomfortable and I feel really relaxed - even more so when a cool mask is applied, and a low-voltage current is pulsed through the mask while I’m given a hand and arm massage.

“When the mask’s peeled off, my skin looks plumper and more refreshed. Monthly treatments promise cumulative effects, but I’m really impressed by the instant results too.”

Environ Collagen Power Facial, £100 for 90 minutes. To find your nearest salon, visit www.iiaa.eu

wonder one is sold every eight seconds (www.thebodyshop.co.uk).

THE MEGA-HIT MASCARA

Benefit’s They’re Real mascara isn’t just a top seller for the brand, it’s been the UK’s bestselling mascara for the last four years. To celebrate, the They’re Real Sexy Steal set, £19.50, containing the original mascara plus a mini liner and remover, has just hit the shops (www.benefitcosmetics.co.uk).

THE WONDER OIL

enefit They’re Real Sexy Steal set, available from benefitcosmetics.co.uk

Originally a hit in its native France, Melvita L’Or Rose Firming Oil, £30, is a gorgeously scented cellulite-targeting treatment. Only launched in the UK in April, so many bottles have already been sold that if they were all stacked up, they’d reach the height of six and a half Eiffel Towers. Tres bien, non? (www.melvita.com).

THE CULT CREAM

Not only does it have a pun-tastic name, Soap & Glory’s The Righteous Butter, £10, is a thick, luscious lotion that’s loved the world over. One pink tub is sold every 20 seconds worldwide and it’s won a stack of awards too (www.boots.com).

THE HAIR-OIC TREATMENT

Originally created for Audrey Hepburn more than 40 years ago, Philip Kingsley Elasticizer has continued its reign as the most intensive conditioning product out there.

Now, the first ever scented version of the treatment is

oap & Glory’s The Righteous Butter, available from boots.com

Melvita L’Or Rose Firming Oil, available from melvita.com

One pink tub is sold every 20 seconds worldwide and it’s won a stack of awards too

out, Geranim & Neroli Elasticizer, £31.50 (www.philipkingsley.co.uk).

THE SUPER SCRUB

Sabon has a huge following in its native Israel and has just opened an online shop in the UK. The brand’s sea salt scrubs are massively popular, with the delicious-sounding Lavender Apples Body Scrub, £31, being the global bestseller (www.sabonuk.co.uk).

THE SUITS-ALL SHADE

The legendary Orgasm shade from NARS - a warm, peachy hue - is responsible for shifting 135 units per hour, be it blusher, lipstick or the famous Multiple sticks. Where to start if you haven’t tried this ultra-flattering pink yet?

The Orgasm Blush, £23, will have you screaming with delight (www.narscosmetics.co.uk).

THE ANTI-AGEING ICON

The product of 20 years of dermatology research, Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate, £60, uses a unique complex to boost skin’s immunity, and it’s proven a hit with consumers since it debuted last year - one bottle is sold every 18 seconds worldwide (www.shiseido.com).

Shiseido Ultimune Power Infusing Concentrate, available from shiseido.com

Philip Kingsley Elasticizer, available from philipkingsley.co.uk

The Orgasm Blush, available from narscosmetics.co.uk

Lavender Apples Body Scrub, available from sabonuk.co.uk

Lead image: Thinkstockphotos; All other images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

Katie Wright

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If you are interested in a worthwhile career in care see a list of our current opportunities at www.bmcare.co.uk

H EALTH & BEAUTY

Conquering new heights Training to climb Mount Kilimanjaro at Spire Harpenden

D

enise Kearney is a keen fundraiser, and has previously done a skydive, bungee jump and even walked over hot coals to raise money for charity, but now she has raised her sights to an even higher goal…

through, the ache turned into severe pain and I couldn’t use my right leg at all. I went to the doctors for painkillers and anti-inflammatories and was told to rest it for six to eight weeks.”

In the following weeks Denise also damaged her left knee while she was favouring it, placing more pressure on the joint.

“Things didn’t improve so I decided to use my private health insurance and was referred to Spire Harpenden. An MRI showed that I had torn my cartilage and that I would need a bilateral arthroscopy. I had the operation in April 2014.”

Since her operation, Denise has persevered in her goal of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. Denise’s physiotherapist at Spire Harpenden, Clare Johnston, is full of praise for Denise’s hard work “We have done a lot of work to get her strength up for the climb, including hydrotherapy and using our isokinetic machine to measure leg strength (Cybex). Denise really is an inspiration; she has overcome major obstacles and against all odds she is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for two very worthwhile causes.”

Denise explains that the physiotherapy team at Spire

I wouldn’t be able to do this if it wasn’t for the staff here. Not only have they helped me recover physically, but also mentally

Denise Kearney

5 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

Denise is training to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in October, which would be a huge task for anyone, but Denise is also still recovering from an operation on both of her knees. This challenge is her biggest yet and has been in the making for many years.

“My training in 2013 culminated in a training weekend on Mt. Snowdon. We climbed the hardest route in terrible weather and during the descent I felt my right knee twinge. In the morning it didn’t feel right, but I still got up and went on a 20 mile hike. Half way Clare Johnston

Harpenden have been fantastic “I wouldn’t be able to do this if it wasn’t for the staff here. Not only have they helped me recover physically, but also mentally, showing me that I can do things which I had previously thought were impossible.”

To read more about Denise’s journey you can follow her on facebook.com/denisekilimanjaro. Denise aims to raise £20,000 for The British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research UK, charities both very close to her heart. She explains, “I don’t know what the future holds for my knees but I hope I can impact on the future of people suffering from cancer and heart disease and that one day we will be able to prevent these diseases altogether”.

To sponsor to Denise, visit www.virginmoneygiving.com/climb4life.

Find out more about the physiotherapy department at Spire Harpenden by visiting our website www.spireharpenden.com

H EALTH & care

40 years of Caring in Hertfordshire

2

015 sees the 40th Anniversary of operation for Hertfordshire based elderly care home provider B&M Care. On 12th September 1975, B&M Care Chairman Bill Hughes took the keys to his first care home in St Albans. Clare Lodge was licensed for a fee of just £1 with the commissioning authorities at the time.

Bill Hughes was born in County Galway, Ireland in 1941 and spent most of his childhood in the care system, only making contact with his birth mother again at the age of 52. At 16, like many other young Irishmen in 1950s, he set off for England where he mastered his construction and carpentry trades.

Forty years on with the opening of B&M Care’s 22nd home, Tremona in Watford, the company now care for over 1,000 people. Thirteen B&M care homes already operate in Hertfordshire and new sites are being constructed at Hoddesdon and Kings Langley. B&M Care are set to grow to 27 care homes by 2020. With their own in house construction company, B&M Care design and construct all their own care homes and deliver high standard environments.

B&M Care employ over 1200 care and ancillary staff between their care homes and at their Head Office in

care matters and that their individual needs are being met in the best possible way”. All B&M Care dementia homes in Hertfordshire are accredited by Hertfordshire County Council for their dementia care and this year they have set up Dementia Seminars and Dementia Cafes in those homes offering support for people and carers in their communities.

Today B&M Care can be described as a ‘family run business for families’. Bill Hughes is very hands on and not averse to still rolling up his sleeves to landscape the gardens of B&M homes. The ‘for families’ ethos is directed at the residents and families that choose a B&M Care home.

Their aim is simple: to make every moment count for a person living with a dementia and their families.

Residents, families and staff at B&M Care homes have this year joined a year-long programme of celebrations for the 40th Anniversary. Homes have hosted anything from Garden Parties to Vintage Fairs, and Bill Hughes and his family have attended every event, cut many cakes and planted numerous commemorative trees. Bill Hughes said “the staff and residents have really put on some lovely events and I am enormously proud of them all”.

Bill Hughes has published a book that tells the story of

Their staff training and development is industry envied and staff retention and long service is high Hemel Hempstead. Their staff training and development is industry envied and staff retention and long service is high.

With a values based recruitment strategy that focusses on recruiting staff that have a natural ability to connect with people, B&M Care are able to ensure staff recognise and respond to the emotional needs of a person in their care.

With forty years’ experience, B&M Care know a lot about caring for the needs of older people and have a real understanding of dementia care. Business Development Manager, Angela Hunt says “B&M Care are committed to our policy of quality and delivering the highest standards of person centred care. To our families this means value for money and peace of mind that every person in our 5 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

B&M Care, and also touches upon his passion for vintage and classic cars. The Ashlyns Hall Car Show started off in the 1990s with just a handful of his car enthusiast friends and this year saw around 300 cars over the course of the day.

This 40 year old Hertfordshire based company is a success story that will continue to offer worthwhile careers and improve the lives of older people and people who live with a dementia for many years to come.

THE DETAILS www.bmcare.co.uk T: 01442 236020

kitchen guide

A collection of Hertfordshire’s finest kitchen companies

Kitchen by John Ladbury www.johnladbury.co.uk

KITCHEN GUIDE

The latest in German technology from Moneyhill Interiors

by Celia Warbrick.

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O

ctober is always an exciting time in the kitchen calendar - all the major German kitchen manufacturers open their Factories and showcase their latest designs inhouse in various different locations. Whilst all the manufacturers are dependent on various manufacturing factors such as new veneers,and carcase materials, they are also desperate for the latest in technology for such boring components as hinges and soft close mechanisms that we just take for granted now.

I simply love the new designs from Pronorm, combining the lacquers and laminates in subtle colours ( that you never grown tired of ) with stunning oak and white glass units. The use of pocket doors whilst not a new invention have become very sophisticated and glide with ease and the new interiors from Pronorm show just how easy it is to be totally organised in the kitchen. The versaltity of designing with a German range is also reflected in the price. It is possible to achieve the same design look and indeed colour using a door finished in a coloured laminate for a fraction of the price when using a high gloss lacquer. Concrete laminate doors for example are also proving that you can have texture and colour without blowing the budget.

Although the kitchen has always been at the centre of family life, it has now also become the dining room, study and TV area all into one. The fact that all the food storage, prepping and cooking also takes place means that design needs to be simply tailored to individual needs. A couple with no children or animals have very different needs to a family with children. Its really lovely that so much can be stored away such as coffee machines, toasters and blenders, leaving clutter free worktops. It is also possible to hide away Ovens, Steam Ovens and Microwaves with specially

designed cupboards that bleep if machines are left on and the doors closed.

THE DETAILS For a fabulous design individually tailed to your specific requirements please call for an appointment or visit the Showroom at Moneyhill Parade.

••••• Moneyhill Interiors Ltd.,, 1 Moneyhill Parade, Uxbridge Road, Rickmansworth, Herts. WD3 7BQ ••••• 01923 773906 www.moneyhillinteriors.com celia@moneyhillinteriors.com

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KITCHEN GUIDE

LUXURY & BESPOKE John Ladbury and Company is a family run, bespoke furniture manufacturer based in Hertfordshire, operating throughout the surrounding counties and London.

E

stablished for almost forty years they offer a wealth of experience and expertise in designing, manufacturing and installing kitchens, bedrooms and studies of distinction.

Quality and attention to detail has made John Ladbury and Company the first choice in luxury bespoke kitchens in Hertfordshire. Our newly refurbished showroom in Welham Green displays the best of our inspirational and traditional designs, highlighting our unparalleled craftsmanship and show-casing the leading appliance brands including: Wolf, Siemens, Sub-Zero, Quooker, Miele and Falcon.

Today’s kitchens tend to be bright and light with tall, streamlined handleless furniture in high gloss finish in pale colours. Using a different medium, such as stainless steel or the exotic Australian Red Gum veneer, for part of the furniture can work well if tempered with the right worktop and paint colour to soften the look.

Quartz composite in contrasting, or complementing colours has gained in popularity and although granite is still popular there has been a departure from the traditional darker granite to lighter shades of grey and off-white.

The more traditional kitchen furniture is hand painted in hues of soft greys and blues, housing top of the range appliances and finished with polished or satin chrome handles. Extra’s such as a steam oven, a boiling tap and an integrated coffee maker are still firm favourites.

Large central islands with an integrated prep sink and induction hob are proving popular in both traditional and contemporary kitchens and a contrasting end grain chopping block in walnut or maple and a splash back in a vibrant colour complement the look.

The media unit is fast becoming a staple requisite

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now that home owners are opening up their kitchens for everyday living enabling family and friend to meet and eat in one room.

Whether you are looking for a traditional or contemporary style kitchen, one of our dedicated designers will be on hand to discuss your requirements in detail to ensure your new, unique kitchen enhances your home and lifestyle. Your furniture will be hand-built in our workshop and your kitchen will be delivered and installed by our team of local craftsmen with the minimum of fuss using all associated trades, such as flooring, plumbing, electrics and decorating.

THE DETAILS Do take a look at our website and call us to make an appointment to chat with a designer.

••••• Website: www.johnladbury.co.uk Tel: 01707 262966

KITCHEN GUIDE

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KITCHEN GUIDE

KITCHENS ARE THE NEW LIVING ROOMS

On average, people spend from £8,000 to a massive £20,000 on a new kitchen. It is about creating a dream space…so depending on the price range, what can that buy you?

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Choosing A Theme For Your Kitchen

classic shaker style kitchen. The floor plan in a shaker kitchen is open, with cabinets often lining the sides of the kitchen. An island in the middle can make an attractive and very useful addition and can be created for you in classic shaker styling.

This dignified, elegant kitchen is never excessive but nevertheless stunning to look at and work in.

Contemporary kitchens

The sleek look that comes hand in hand with a contemporary kitchen will provide instant gratification.

The practical use of space allows for more movement in the kitchen and provides easier access to storage areas and necessary equipment as you prepare those mouth-watering dishes. Also, contemporary colours provide a more open feeling which adds into the functional atmosphere of the space. That is, in essence, one of the great benefits of contemporary custom kitchen designs; the array of options available. No matter what your exact tastes and preferences, there is a contemporary kitchen design that will meet all your specific needs.

French country kitchen

This look combines rustic country charm with a grand, chateau-like sophistication. Opt for units in an aged shade of parchment or dove grey featuring beautifully-turned, bevelled detailing. Team with natural stone or slate on the floor, black or cream enamel Aga, chunky wooden worktops and tiled splashbacks in earthy shades. This also works well with freestanding features, so choose an antique-style armoire for displaying tableware and an island unit with matching hood as a focal point. Hang copper pans on a black wrought iron pot hanger and accessorise the room with rustic oil bottles and richly coloured earthenware.

Shaker Style kitchen

The clean lines and rustic feel of a shaker kitchen means they appeal to those who adore both contemporary design and a classic look and feel. The round knobs, pillow-fronted doors and beautiful woods are features that epitomise the

Retro Kitchen

A retro kitchen is styled in a way that includes elements that imitate kitchen trends of the past. You might find psychedelic colours that hark back to the 1970s, or even appliances based on those found in American households of the 1950’s. Adding a touch of retro fun to your new kitchen can be a great way to give character to the space, and is sure to provide a few nostalgic talking points.

LAYOUT

Your kitchen should be designed for whatever you are likely to want to do in it. There are people who want to frame pictures, wash dogs, even do keep fit in their kitchens. If you’re remodelling from scratch and have a large space, think open plan and multi-purpose – somewhere to eat, work, cook and relax. Kitchen experts John Lewis of Hungerford advise thinking hard about your lifestyle. “The vivacious party animal” needs a U-shaped kitchen with island in the middle and open ended for social gathering, for example. “The Good Life fans” prefers a big L-shaped layout with a range-style cooker, large fridge and freezer and large farmhouse table. “The London weekday bolthole” needs galley-style layout with plenty of wall storage cabinets because most of the below surface cupboards are filled with appliances and gadgets.

Meanwhile the “pony club set” loves a free-standing pantry offset to a wrap-around kitchen with peninsula and, of course, an Aga.

CABINETS

Cabinets are the workhorse of your kitchen, so always push your budget as far as possible. Think practically as well as aesthetically when it comes to the finish (highly

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KITCHEN GUIDE

polished dark colours show fingerprints easily, for example) and remember, neutrals stand the test of time more than bold colours which, incidentally, rarely work in small kitchens.You can always apply brighter colours to the walls or splash-backs (glass is effective). Don’t neglect handles – they can make or break a kitchen. Hettich and Hefale have a good selection with timeless clean lines and if you’re feeling flush, Valli & Valli have handles to die for. Small handles generally don’t work, but chrome is effective and never dates.

WORKTOPS

Avoid wood near sinks or you’ll become a slave to re-oiling, and be warned, glass worktops quickly look tired and scratched. Consider twin-edged worktops that look like glass, but are laminate. Corian is good for the seamless look. Designers say there’s nothing they can’t do with it – sinks of the same material, coved upstands and so on. Granite remains the top worktop choice. There are so many more materials at similar prices to the ubiquitous black. For sinks, stainless steel is best. For taps, the tri-flow system provides filtered water. For cheaper ways to get the wow factor, mix and match your worktops – for example, quartz and stainless steel – or vary the depth of work surfaces.

KITCHEN FLOORING

To put on a fantastic floor show, do your homework first.

Start by looking at the construction of your existing floor and make sure it’s suitable for the type of flooring you’ve got in mind. Heavy materials such as stone or terracotta tiles need a solid concrete base. If you’re laying a floor over wood, go for lighter materials such as lino, vinyl or wooden floorboards.

Vinyl flooring

Comfortable and warm underfoot, vinyl is one of the most cost-effective flooring options and comes in a range of colours and patterns. For a durable surface that won’t fade, choose a vinyl with the colour running through - those with surface patterns tend to develop a patchy look over time. Your supplier can advise you on the correct grade for your kitchen and, if you have the budget, have it installed by a professional, as badly fitting vinyl will peel at the edges. To keep it looking pristine, sweep it regularly and clean with a non-abrasive cleaner.

Stone or slate

Consult an expert if you’re thinking of using stone or slate on a kitchen floor as its porous nature means it can stain easily. It’s also one of the most expensive floors you can buy, but it will add value to your home. To reduce the risk of staining, go for the less porous slate rather than marble or limestone and make sure you have it professionally sealed. Look at travertine too – a natural stone made in Italy from calcium carbonate. It has a pitted appearance, comes in many colours and stands up to most cleaning products, making it the durable choice. If you have kids and pets running around, natural stone may not be the best option for you.

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Laminate is a great, cost-effective option that creates an authentic, real wood plank effect at a fraction of the cost of the real thing.

Laminate

This is a great, cost-effective option that creates an authentic, real wood plank effect at a fraction of the cost of the real thing. These days, you’ll also find stone and ceramic tile effects too. Laminates are tough so they’re ideal for busy households with lots of traffic in the kitchen. To create the appearance of real wood floorboards, choose a laminate with bevelled edges that form a v shape between the planks when they’re butted up together. Even better, this flooring is designed to be clicked together so there’s no need for messy glue and you can even lay it yourself if you’re a competent DIYer.

Hardwood

A real hardwood floor is expensive, but will add value to your home. Treat it with a Polyurethane finish to make it easier to maintain and clean. Wipe spills up quickly though, as any water sitting for a length of time on the floor will result in warping. Unlike laminates, if your floor gets damaged, you don’t have to replace the boards – you can simply sand them down and treat them again.

Ceramic tiles

A popular choice for kitchens as they come in so many colours, textures and patterns allowing you to create your own unique look. You can even use a central colour and create a tiled border all around to frame the floor.

Remember though, you need a solid concrete base for tiles as floorboards would shift underneath and cause cracks to form. Ceramic can be cold underfoot so consider installing underfloor heating.

So you can create your own dream kitchen!

KITCHEN GUIDE

Cooking up a

STYLISH STATEMENT Kitchens are for eating, drinking and socialising, but the heart of the home also speaks volumes about our taste - as a glimpse into the kitchens of Prime Minister’s wife Samantha Cameron and celebrity chef Nigella Lawson recently revealed.

By Gabrielle Fagan, Press Association

Onda kitchen in Orchid, Rational

to avoid choosing a style which jars with the rest of your design scheme.

“Equally, don’t feel obliged in a period home to install a traditional kitchen. The priority is for a functional space, which is easy to work in and is visually appealing, and modern ranges can be hugely successful as a stunning, calm pared-back contrast, when the rest of the house is highly embellished with flourishes and detail.” A kitchen can make or break a property deal, and it’s estimated that it can add up to 7% to the value of a home.

“Bear in mind that adventurous colour choices may look great in the showroom but can be hard to live with, and aren’t generally advisable if you’re considering selling a property,” Burgess-Allen points out. “If you feel colourstarved, play with colour in worktops and tiling.

“Always consider the natural light available, and opt for light reflecting surfaces if it’s limited. On a practical note, avoid glossy kitchen doors if you’re house proud and have small children, as they’ll show up every smudgy fingerprint!”

W

Shaker Twist kitchen, Betta Living

All images courtesy of PA Photo/Handout

hile there’s a homely, eclectic feel to the Downing Street space, with open shelves cluttered with pots and pans and a blackboard on the wall for family messages, Lawson’s made a full-on feminine statement with fuchsia-pink cabinets and drawers, in her new London home.

It just goes to show, the recipe for a perfect kitchen is highly personal. There’s no one right ‘look’ - what matters is that this space suits you and the way you want to live.

“There are several factors to take into account when choosing a kitchen,” advises Craig Burgess-Allen, UK manager for Rational kitchens. “Consider the style of the rest of your home, especially if you have an open-plan layout with spaces flowing into one another, as you want

GET THE LOOK Hot Pink Pantone three cup coffee maker, berryred.com

Joseph Joseph Pie Kitchen Timer Pink, thedesigngiftshop.com flap Large black analogue wall clock, Habitat

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Lance table, Habitat

KITCHEN GUIDE

How to plan your

kitchen

lighting Essential for preparation and cooking, lighting can also be used to create mood and atmosphere at the flick of a switch.

O

ne of the first things you’ll need to consider when planning your new kitchen is the lighting, as electrics and fittings have to be installed at the start of the project, before plastering, decorating and the fitting. It’s an integral part of any scheme and this is your one chance to get it right.

The key to a successful scheme lies in layering the effects, so you should try to zone the lighting according to its use - working (task), dining and mood (ambient) and creating the wow factor (feature). It’s important to

options are perfect for this and be sure to look for recessed or semi-recessed options, as exposed light fittings will collect grease and dirt more easily.

For the hob area, choose an extractor with four or more halogen lights and if the island is to be used for prep, highlight it with pendant lamps combined with recessed downlighters. These should always be controlled on a separate circuit, so make sure you talk to your electrician before any installation takes place. The latest trend is for easy-to-use sensor-operated products. They’re extremely

Installing ceiling lighting can pose some difficulties, but it is possible to illuminate a kitchen without using any ceiling lights concentrate on all three and consider dimmable solutions for even more flexibility.

Installing ceiling lighting can pose some difficulties, but it is possible to illuminate a kitchen without using any ceiling lights. There is a wide range of spotlights, downlighters, uplighters and strips that can be placed either under or on top of kitchen units. It also means you can be more creative, as it’s possible to conceal fixtures and fittings.

Every kitchen, no matter how large or small, needs efficient task lighting. This is as much from a safety point of view as anything else. You’ll need direct lighting wherever any food preparation is taking place - worktops, sinks and hobs - to make sure chopping and cooking can be done safely and without shadows. Undermounted

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practical - when preparing food, there’s no need to wash your hands every time you need to flick the switch, simply wave your hand in front of the sensor.

Drawer and cabinet lighting can also be operated on sensors, instantly coming on when the door is opened. Not only do they look great, the lights make it much easier to find that elusive corkscrew or pizza cutter.

Open-plan kitchens with a dining area or those with a breakfast bar need a combination of adequate lighting for eating, with softer lighting for after-dinner conversation.

Dining tables and island units will benefit from a series of overhead pendant lamps (rise-and-fall versions can be moved up or down when needed) while lamps and wall lights will create a warm glow that sets the mood.

Luxury Curtains

Bespoke Dining Chairs

Bespoke Made Corner Suites Padded Headboards and Ottomans

HOUSE HHOUSE hOUSE ous e &&GARDEN ga GARDEN rden

The Truth About

Condensation

in UK Homes, & Whether or Not Replacement Double Glazing Eradicates it

Have you started noticing condensation on your double glazed windows? Double glazing condensation can occur the outside pane of glass or elsewhere on the window. Naturally this can be alarming, particularly if the windows or doors are new, but it is not necessarily something to be concerned about.

T

here are many factors causing condensation but double glazing will never eliminate it. For example, where new double glazed windows have replaced old single glazed windows such as old crittall windows or single glazed timber windows you may be surprised at the presence of condensation. After all, double glazing is supposed to eliminate condensation isn’t it?

The presence of condensation may also be particularly evident in the Autumn. But why is this,

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what is condensation and should your new aluminium double glazed windows even be allowing double glazed condensation in the first place?

All windows will condensate in some way. You must never believe any double glazing salesperson that says “our windows will eliminate condensation”. This is untrue and completely misleading. New windows can never completely eliminate condensation.

What new double glazing will do is improve the current

amount of moisture until they dry out completely.

Consider how exposed to the elements the building was during its construction and until it was sealed by the roof or windows. Over 6000 litres of water are estimated to have been absorbed by a typical dwelling during its construction.

Heaters are also a cause of moisture in the air.

Breathing whilst we sleep is well known to produce several litres of water vapour during the night.

Drying washing indoors are also significant sources of water.

Single panes of glass found in old single glazed windows simply cannot retain any heat. As the glass has a lower temperature this lets moisture in the air condensate on the cold surface. This is why single glazed windows condensate.

By comparison, double glazed windows offer two pieces of glass and therefore retain the heat inside the room. Old double glazed units were simply two pieces of glass with an air space.

These still let out some heat but performed better than single glass. Modern double glazing with sophisticated glass coating technology, high specification sealants and spacer bars and the presence of argon gas between the two pieces of glass all substantially reduce the loss of heat from inside the room.

Single panes of glass found in old single glazed windows simply cannot retain any heat level of condensation on your old windows. This is because the thermal properties of modern aluminium frames and the high specification of modern double or triple glazing will be far superior than single glazed windows and non-insulated frames. All the modern aspects of today’s windows play a part in reducing condensation but nothing can eliminate it.

The presence of condensation is down to several factors, but the main ones are how we live in our homes and what we do that causes moisture in the air.

Modern buildings are now very well insulated both in their construction and of course windows. In older buildings that are less well Visit insulated air flow changes are more frequent. In modern www.tinyurl.com/ buildings the water vapour that condensation-advice causes condensation is unable to download the to escape through old windows, chimneys or the structure and has booklet to settle on the first cold surface.

This will often be the windows but Condensation can also be on bathroom tiles or walls.

The bottom line is that water vapour is the cause of condensation It is modern life and the advances in construction products that all play a part in causing condensation in the home. Here are some common causes of double glazing condensation: Simple cooking and the steam generated from pots on the stove all generate water vapour.

New build properties contain a huge Advice to consumer reference 50.1 mAy 2013

some causes, some advice.

Therefore the presence of condensation is unavoidable in our dwellings, but there are of course steps you can take through adequate ventilation combined with sufficient heating to reduce it as much as possible. In fact, fitting thermally efficient double glazing can make an existing condensation problem worse if the room(s) in question do not have enough heating and ventilation to reduce the pre-existing propensity for condensation.

There is always the possibility of some condensation forming on double glazed windows. Condensation on the outside of double glazed windows is nothing to worry about, as is condensation on the inside of the window (other than the latter is rather annoying as sometimes small water pools form on the window cill). However, if the area in between the two glass panes is misting up or showing signs of moisture then the sealed unit is failing and should be investigated to see if it has “blown” and therefore lost its thermal efficiency..

Condensation on the inside of your windows may be a sign that there is excessive moisture in the air, aside from the inconvenience of having condensation, you should consider what effect this could have on the plaster work and wood in your home. As previously stated, ensure that there is plenty of ventilation flowing through your home, as well as enough warmth from your heating system, and this will go a long way to reducing condensation.

THE DETAILS To find out more about thermally efficient, energy saving replacement double glazing, contact the experts at Hazlemere Window Company who have over 30 years’ experience manufacturing and installing aluminium and UPVC double glazing. Call 01727 238658 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5 7 7

HHOUSE hOUSE ous e && GARDEN ga GARDEN rden

Success at the Home Building and Renovating show 2015 Herts Bifold Doors made their second appearance at the Homebuilding and Renovating show, and what a turnout it was!

T

he professional installation teams had only one day to set up the stand and install all the products ready for the prospective clients for the following day. They did a terrific job as the pictures show. Our stand and staff were ready for action right on time.

During the show a steady stream of people came to see the sales team with plans, ideas and dreams for their future projects. Everybody was given time and good advice on all their needs, from large bespoke installations to single items. There was considerable interest in the recently launched Origin aluminium flush casement window. A unique product within the glazing market being contemporary in design, high security and having excellent thermal values. Alongside the bifold doors and rooflights HBD were unmatched in high quality, high end industry

leading materials. This, alongside quality installations the highly qualified installation teams was enough to provoke a huge amount of interest. After a hectic three days the stand was disassembled and packed away neatly for The Homebuilding and Renovating show 2016.

Herts Bifold Doors have not been resting on their laurels, once back in the showroom the sales team immediately set about collating and sending out the huge number of quotations the show had generated.

The show was only two weeks ago and already a number of orders have been made from the initial quotations sent out. There has also been an increased flow of people from all over the south east visiting the high end showroom in St Albans to view the wider range of products offered from Solarlux to Schuco.

The whole event was a great chance for Herts Bifold Doors to promote their brand to a wider audience bringing quality installations at an affordable price to all.

For those who didn’t make to the show, please by all means come and visit the quality showroom in St Albans where one of the sales team can help guide you through your requirements and get you started on your journey.

All Herts Bifold Doors look forward to meeting you!

THE DETAILS The Gryphon Industrial Park, St Albans, Hertfordshire AL3 6XZ ••••• 01727 845600 www.hertsbifolddoors.co.uk

7 8 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

Bifold doors - Large pane sliding doors - Windows - Roof lights Showroom located at Unit 8, The Gryphon Industrial Park, Porters Wood, St Albans AL3 6XZ Tel 01727 845 600 information@hertsbifolddoors.co.uk

www.hertsbifolddoors.co.uk

Your expectations are our standard to exceed them is our goal charlesworth classics specialise in high Quality servicing and repairs for your cherished marque or on your everyday family vehicle.

• Over 30 years Of knOwledge and experience wOrking On marques such as mercedes-Benz, audi, rOlls rOyce and Bentley • ecOnOmical servicing and repairs • quality O.e Or equivalent parts and luBricants Only • great custOmer service and Old fashiOned values • free cOllectiOn and delivery • m.O.t • tyres • air cOnditiOning • state Of the art engine management equipment

Whatever your vehicle rest assured it is in safe hands with us, For further information or to book a service call sean on 01727 838 241 222 london road, st albans, hertfordshire, al1 1pn

property New Park House

Newgate street, Hertfordshire

New Park House is approached via an electrically operated sliding gate which opens to the private driveway with fields on either side. It is a picturesque setting for this charming period house, surrounded by lovely gardens and greenbelt countryside providing panoramic views towards Northaw Great Wood.

Guide Price: ÂŁ2.7 million

property

Viburnam Gate, Loom Lane Radlett, hertfordshire

I

ntroducing an impressive and luxuriously appointed 6 bedroom family home, offering in excess of 4650 sq ft of sumptuous accommodation, within an exclusive gated development in the affluent village of Radlett, Hertfordshire. This sensational home has it all; a large stylish kitchen/breakfast/family room, drawing room, study, TV room and guest cloakroom, on the first floor is the master bedroom with dressing room and en-suite bathroom and three additional bedrooms, two of which are also en-suite, plus laundry room. The second floor benefits from two additional bedrooms, a shower room and a games room. To the front is the large driveway and double garage and the rear boasts an enclosed garden with expansive patio.

An impressive and luxuriously appointed 6 bedroom family home, offering in excess of 4650 sq ft

Location

Radlett benefits from a Thameslink rail station with fast service into London St Pancras (approx 28 mins), shops, restaurants, places of worship & excellent schools including Edge Grove, Radlett Prep, Haberdasher’s Aske’s & Aldenham are nearby as are the M1, M25 and A1(M).

Guide Price £2,595,000

Contact details: For more information about this property please contact Statons Radlett office on 01923 604321 or email: radlett@statons.com

8 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

From Cottages to Country Estates

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

MiLL HiLL

£4,750,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions Bathrooms Semi-rural location Set in just over 2 acres Tennis Court Extensive Driveway Sweeping staircase Ideal Home of the Year Winner 1963

ToTTeridge office 020 8445 3694

ArKLeY

£2,150,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 5 Bathrooms Security Gates Luxurious master suite with private balcony South Easterly facing garden Detached Double Garage

BArneT office 020 8449 3383

norTH MYMMS

£1,495,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 5 Bathrooms Chain Free Refurbished and extended to high standard Garage OSP

BrooKMAnS PArK office 01707 661144

oAKLeigH PArK

PoA

5 Bedrooms 5 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Refurbished to high standard Heated Swimming Pool Carriage driveway Roof Terrace Gym

ToTTeridge office 020 8445 3694

ArKLeY

£1,995,000

6 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Set in private tranquil setting Security gates Beautiful mature garden Large swimming pool

BArneT office 020 8449 3383

ST ALBAnS

£1,200,000

4 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Refurbished to high standard Detached Cottage Private garden surrounded by woodland

rAdLeTT office 01923 604321

HAdLeY Wood

£2,900,000

7 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 6 Bathrooms Private Gated Entrance Carriage Driveway Beautifully landscaped secluded south facing garden Heated swimming pool

HAdLeY Wood office 020 84409797

HAdLeY Wood

£1,825,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 5 Bathroom Re-built to high specification Carriage Driveway Under-floor heating Planning permission has been granted for conservatory Garden with Patio

HAdLeY Wood office 020 8440 9797

norTH MYMMS

£1,175,000

4 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Victorian family home Triple garage with storage above Enclosed garden adjoining fields Chain free

BrooKMAnS PArK office 01707 661144

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

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

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

HaDLEy GROVE, HaDLEy HIGHSTONE, EN5 £1,500,000 FREEHoLD

Six bedroom, three reception room, semi-detached period property with garage to rear.

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“As a family we have really enjoyed living here for the last 9 years”

The property benefits from period features throughout including fireplaces in each room, panelled ceilings, sash windows and oak flooring.

“It is a lovely quiet area & a great walk down to the common to walk the dogs” “The proximity to the tube station is so convenient for popping into town for the evening alternatively walking into High Barnet for a meal”

Located in a quiet residential turning but within a short distance to the High Barnet shopping facilities, cafes & restaurants and less than a mile to High Barnet Underground station.

EPC Rating: E

Contact Susan Bradford at our Barnet office on 020 8440 2444 • 4 Exchange Buildings, High Street, Barnet, EN5 5SY

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

50 years of fulfilling dreams

...for all generations

TORRINGTON PaRk, NORTH FINCHLEy, N12

A modernised and extended seven bedroom, semi-detached family home situated close to North Finchley High Road.

£1,4000,000 FREEHoLD

THE OWNERS LOVE…

WE’VE NOTICED…

“We fell in love with the size and character of the house and then refurbished and extended it to create a fantastic family home”

Torrington Park is well placed for the area’s excellent local schools including Northside and The Wren Academy.

“It’s a great house for children with plenty of space to play. They love the south facing garden, especially the tree house!”

The property is well served by public transport with buses available locally and Woodside Park station (Northern Line) also close by.

“The off-street parking is great, we’ve had four parked on there before along with two motorbikes”

EPC Rating: D

Contact Craig Thompkins at our North Finchley office on 020 8445 2222 • 773 High Road, North Finchley, London, N12 8JY

www.martyngerrard.co.uk

O

...that was a good move.

Here to help with your next adventure in property.

The same day the first firework was lit at the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics, little Dave arrived. He’s now an inquisitive 7 year old always exploring and intrigued by what is just out of reach. His willingness to brave the unknown and try new things has inspired him to be an astronaut when he grows up.

We all have our own aspirations and goals in life, for many it’s owning or renting our dream home. At Martyn Gerrard our mission is to help guide you through this adventure and make sure that, you make a good move to find your perfect home.

Have you made a good move lately?

Tweet @MartynGerrardEA to tell us about it. #goodmove

martyngerrard.co.uk

Achieving the best for you.

APPLEGROVE

GARDENVALE

Two exclusive six bedroom homes situated in the leafy area of Oakleigh Park.

An exceptional standard of traditional elegance and comfort with state-of-the-art technology throughout.

GrOss InTernAl AreA: 391m2 – 422m2 / 4,210ft2 – 4,542ft2 (including garage) £2,500,000 for each home Another quality development by

property

New Park House,New Park Road Newgate street Village, Hertfordshire

N

ew Park House is approached via an electrically operated sliding gate which opens to the private driveway with fields on either side.

It is a picturesque setting for this charming period house, surrounded by lovely gardens and greenbelt countryside providing panoramic views towards Northaw Great Wood. The property offers 5,522 square feet of accommodation, the majority of which is arranged over two floors with a useful cellar beneath. There is much of note; this is a house of fine proportions, period features and versatile living space, with the potential to extend (subject to the necessary planning consents), reconfigure or personalise according to requirements. The ground floor features a wonderful period sitting room, believed to be one of the oldest parts of the house, with feature brick fireplace with beam above and beamed ceiling. There are two further formal reception rooms, both elegant and spacious with direct access to the southerly terrace, and a conservatory with underfloor heating, providing excellent space for both entertaining and family living. The conservatory leads off the double aspect kitchen/breakfast room with Aga, perfect for informal dining and adjacent is an excellent pantry, separate utility room and boiler/drying room. The first floor offers up to eight bedrooms and three bathrooms, including a master bedroom with views over the grounds and private en suite facilities. A further bedroom has been fitted for use as a study with tall cupboards and a desk area and another bedroom offers potential as an office or teenage games room, such are its proportions. However, it is the setting which makes New Park House particularly exceptional. The grounds extend to about 1.65 acres and the adjacent bridle paths and open countryside create a rural environment unusual for such a convenient location. The gardens are well maintained and provide year round interest with mature shrubberies, flower borders and tall trees, with maintenance eased by an automatic irrigation system. There is a southerly sun terrace with steps down to the paved swimming pool

area with electric cover, all of which feature external lighting.

Nearby is the pool house with changing/shower facilities.

The equestrian facilities are excellent and include an enclosed paddock, floodlit menege and well fitted stable block.

Located at the end of a residential lane, New Park House is set amidst the open countryside near to Newgate Street Village, one of London’s most exclusive outer enclaves. Despite its rural feel it is within commuting distance of the centre of London, just 20 miles from Marylebone and 6 miles from Hertford, within easy access of the M25 and A10. Cuffley train station is about 3 miles away and provides a mainline service to Moorgate (from 34 minutes) and Kings Cross. Potters Bar station (about 5.5 miles) has a service to Kings Cross that takes around 17 minutes. All distances and timings are approximate. There is a wealth of sporting amenities in the area including golf at Crews Hill, Cheshunt, Whitewebbs, Potters Bar and The Hertfordshire Country Club in Broxbourne. Football and tennis are available at Cuffley. There are numerous bridlepaths and walks in the nearby countryside. Schooling is good with state secondary schools such as Dame Alice Owen’s, Chancellors and Goffs. In the independent sector are Queenswood School, Lochinver House, St. John’s Prep (Potters Bar) and Senior School (Enfield), Haileybury in Hertford Heath and Haberdashers’ Aske’s in Elstree. NB. Always check catchments and admissions criteria.

Drawing room • dining room • sitting room • conservatory • kitchen/breakfast room • pantry • 7/8 bedrooms (1 en suite) • 2 bathrooms • cloakroom • utility room boiler/drying room • cellar • tack room • stable block with 3 stables and drying bay • hay store • garage • pool house grounds with floodlit menege and paddock • gardens with heated pool and pond • in all about 1.65 acres EPC rating = F. Asking Price £2.7 million

For further information please contact Savills Barnet on 020 8447 4400 or email barnet@savills.co.uk www.savills.co.uk

property

THREE AWARDS FOR FUSION RESIDENTIAL’S

PALAZZO

Fusion Residential has swept the board with no less than three honours in the UK round of the International Property Awards.

I

t is the third year running the Design House based in Letchmore Heath near Radlett has found favour with the judges in this; the world’s most prestigious property awards competition.

After winning plaudits for Amara Lodge and Murano House in the previous two years, it is Fusion Residential’s fabulous Palazzo development in Beech Hill, Hadley Wood, which has caught the eye in 2015.

And no wonder. As its name suggests, Palazzo is a palace, exquisitely finished and boasting a plethora of high tech yet practical creature comforts.

With discrete gated underground parking in one of Hertfordshire’s most prestigious roads, Palazzo is a showcase of six sumptuous concierge serviced apartments with expansive outdoor terraces. They have only just come to market but such is Fusion Residential’s reputation and glowing endorsements from incredibly satisfied customers that three have already been sold.

Throughout there are custom crafted features, the most modern fixtures and fittings, an eclectic mix of the very best from all points of the globe, and a spell-binding attention to detail which helps engender an incredible aura of achievement and satisfaction. To live here, one feels, is to truly live.

Judges have awarded Palazzo in the best development category while its Penthouse is awarded in the best apartment category.

Furthermore Palazzo’s marketing campaign, headed up by Adam Horwood, has been recognised in the best campaign category for a new development.

It seems it is in the Fusion Residential DNA to succeed

and exceed all expectations in every aspect of the luxury home market.

The award winning Palazzo Penthouse has now been launched at a price of £2.5 million. This is the possibly the finest apartment money can buy in Hertfordshire, and now, courtesy of the UK property awards, that’s official.

Fusion Residential faced stiff opposition from some of the region’s most accomplished developers but the team won’t know which award they have won - either highly commended or 5-star – until the gala presentation dinner at the London Marriott Hotel in Mayfair on Friday, October 9.

The Design House may even go on to represent the UK in the final stage of the competition later this year when it goes head-to-head with companies from Asia Pacific, Africa, Canada, the USA, Central and South America, the Caribbean, Arabia and Europe for the coveted crown of World’s Best Developer.

Fusion Residential Managing Director Antoine Christoforou is justifiably thrilled with this latest honour.

He said: “To be recognised three years running by the UK Property Awards is incredible.

“It underlines the Fusion Residential ethos of striving for perfection in everything we do.

“The team can be very proud that their imagination, innovation and incredible attention to detail has been rewarded yet again.”

But, he adds, there is no resting on laurels. Long before the VIP Palazzo launch, the team were already working on their next project in Ealing aiming to raise the bar yet higher in their quest to deliver the ultimate luxury lifestyle.

To experience the lifestyle on offer at Palazzo call Debbie Williams on 01923 216 535 or 020 8440 6329. Also visit fusionresidential.co.uk.

9 6 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

UPHILL ROAD MILL HILL, NW7

Guide Price £5,000,000 FREEHOLD

ACCOMMODATION

Master bedroom with dressing room & en‐suite bathroom 6 further bedrooms (5 with ensuite bathrooms) 2 further shower rooms 49 ft formal reception room Cinema/games room Dining room Family room Study Reception hall Galleried landing

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

Kitchen/breakfast room Utility room Pantry Guest WC Orangery Indoor leisure complex with heated pool, bar area, sauna & wet room Magnificent 215 ft landscaped rear garden Gated driveway with off street parking for numerous cars

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

An imposing large, double fronted detached family home set back from the road behind security gates, in Mill Hill’s most prestigious turning.

Offering just under 10,000 sq ft of accommodation, this fantastic property offers amazing living and entertaining spaces over 3 floors. Features include a large indoor leisure complex with heated swimming pool, bar area, sauna and wet room, huge formal reception 49ft x 18’6 ft , 4/5 further reception rooms, a large garden extending to approximately 215 ft with stunning water feature and off street parking for numerous cars. To the first floor, there are 5 bedrooms all with en-suite bathrooms including a luxurious master suite with dressing room and en-suite bathroom. To the second floor there are 2 further bedrooms, one with en suite shower room, a second shower room and a cinema/games room.

(EPC Rating: C)

godfreyandbarr.com

MARSH LANE MILL HILL, NW7

ÂŁ2,000,000

FREEHOLD

A substantial 5 bedroom, 3 bathroom, detached family house set back from the road on a wide plot with an impressive 70 ft frontage, discreetly located on Marsh Lane, just opposite Uphill Road. Offering approx. 3030 sq ft of accommodation, the house offers incredible scope for major extension works that would nearly double the size of the house (subject to the necessary planning consents). Features include a large entrance hall, reception room, dining room, TV room, morning room, kitchen/breakfast room & utility room. Further benefits incude an 80ft x 70 ft rear garden & a large frontage with off street parking for 5/6 cars, as well as a double garage. (EPC Rating: F) Master bedroom with dressing room & en-suite bathroom Family bathroom Jack & Jill bathroom to bedrooms 2 & 3 Kitchen/breakfast room

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

Reception room Dining room Family room Utility room Guest cloakroom/WC

Integral double garage Storage room Carriage driveway with parking for 5/6 cars

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

godfreyandbarr.com

ELEANOR CRESCENT MILL HILL, NW7

ÂŁ2,350,000

FREEHOLD

A stunning, architect designed masterpiece built just under a year ago, located in a private turning in the heart of Mill Hill Village with breathtaking, uninterrupted views over greenbelt woodland, yet conveniently located approximately one mile from Mill Hill East Northern Line tube station. Features include a magnificent, open plan ground floor area with bi-fold doors opening to a superb landscaped garden with a stream designed by a Chelsea Gold Medallist. This low maintenance, contemporary home includes a Neil Lerner open plan kitchen/diner, a separate TV room/den, utility/preparatory kitchen & an additional large reception area. (EPC Rating: D) Superb Neil Lerner open plan kitchen/diner TV room/den Preparatory kitchen/utility room

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

Additional large reception area Luxurious master suite with dressing room & en-suite bathroom 3 further bedrooms

2 further bathrooms (1 en-suite) Bespoke floating staircase Guest cloakroom / WC Garage & driveway with parking for 3/4 cars

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

godfreyandbarr.com

MILESPIT HILL MILL HILL VILLAGE,NW7

ÂŁ1,125,000

FREEHOLD

A stunning and rarely available refurbished 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom house at the top of Milespit Hill , within the heart of Mill Hill Village, close to the Ridgeway and within a short walk of Arrandene Open Space. Having been beautifully refurbished by the current owners and offered in immaculate order throughout. Features include a gorgeous large open plan, split level kitchen/ diner opening to the reception, with direct access to private patio and lovely large roof terrace, a double garage, approached via the rear and wonderful green views to the front and back. (EPC Rating: C) 4 bedrooms 4 bathrooms (2 en-suite ) Stunning large open plan kitchen /

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

diner open to reception Guest Wc Patio

Raised rear terrace Double garage Lovely views

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

godfreyandbarr.com

MILLWAY MILL HILL, NW7

ÂŁ1,750,000

FREEHOLD

An immaculately presented, 6 bedroom detached, family home in this popular turning within a short walk of the shopping and transport amenities at Mill Hill Broadway, including Thameslink Station. Having been extended and refurbished throughout by the current owners, this fantastic family home offers 3264 sq ft of accommodation over 3 floors with features including a magnificent kitchen opening to family room / den with bi-fold doors opening to the garden, 2 further reception rooms, utility room, garage and off street parking for 4/5 cars. (EPC Rating: D) 6 bedrooms 4 bathrooms (2 en-suite ) Stunning kitchen opening to TV room/den Lounge

Mill Hill Office

59 Daws Lane, Mill Hill London NW7 4SE

Dining room Utility room Large entrance hall Guest cloakroom/WC

Pretty rear garden with built-in irrigation Short walk to Mill Hill Broadway Garage Driveway with parking for 4/5 cars

T +44 (0) 20 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com godfreyandbarr.com

property

MAYFAIR COMES TO HADLEY WOOD

New Exclusive Homes Launch For Sale

L

aunched in summer with a stunning show apartment, Renaissance is a collection of eight exclusive three-bedroom apartments, set within private gated grounds, in the highly desirable super suburb of Hadley Wood. Built by leading Hertfordshire developer, Heronslea Group, Renaissance offers the very best of village life, with all cosmopolitan benefits of London within easy reach.

Providing luxury lateral living in one of North London’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, Renaissance has been built to an extremely high specification with each carefully crafted home providing generously proportioned contemporary interiors and benefiting from beautiful landscaped gardens and private terraces.

Nick Staton, from selling agents Statons comments: “Everyone in the area is talking about Renaissance, this unique collection of apartments offer the ultimate in luxury, which is simply unparalleled in Hadley Wood.”

Featuring a spectacular galleried entrance and hotel style concierge, Renaissance is ideally located close to a range of amenities and transport links, and provides a high level of security with electronic gated entrance, secure basement parking, plus ample visitor spaces with convenient lift access to all homes, video entry and alarm systems and CCTV throughout.

Shelley West, Sales and Marketing Director of Heronslea Group adds: “Offering some of the largest apartments in the area, Renaissance boasts a truly luxurious look and feel and sits perfectly amongst the grand homes in the area. Each home has been built using the highest quality and finest design.”

For those looking to downsize these exceptionally grand apartments with generously proportioned rooms benefit from exquisite interior design, providing the perfect entertaining space. Ranging in size from 1990 sq ft to 2743 sq ft the apartments feature the finest designer

eat-in kitchens, breakfast rooms and separate utility rooms, spacious living areas with plenty of room for relaxing, three bedrooms with luxurious en-suite bathrooms and/or powder rooms all benefiting from unrivalled specification throughout and cutting-edge home entertainment systems.

The top-of-range designer kitchens by Neil Lerner feature composite stone worktops, smoked mirror splashbacks, and come complete with Quooker chrome hot tap system and Gaggenau built-in appliances. The luxurious bathrooms and powder rooms have been designed to offer a sanctuary within the homes featuring the finest contemporary designs.

Loved by its residents Hadley Wood is surrounded by parks and greenbelt, with excellent transport links and amenities. The development is close to Hadley Wood Village with its shops, restaurants, pubs and boutiques.

Leisure facilities include the Alister Mackenzie designed course at Hadley Wood Golf Club, Hadley Wood Tennis Club and Trent Park with its 800 acres of parkland.

Renaissance is just a 10 minute walk to Cockfosters Underground Station with the Piccadilly Line providing direct links into Leicester Square within 36 minutes, alternatively Hadley Wood Overground station has routes into Moorgate in 35 minutes. By road the development is a short distance from the A1, M1 and M25.

Prices start from £1.95 million.The show apartment is open Thursday to Monday from 10am – 5pm.

Call Statons on 0208 441 9555 or visit www.heronslea-group.co.uk

1 0 4 O C TO B E R 2 0 1 5

built with true passion

Computer generated i l lustrat ion is ind icat ive only.

any thing else is a compromise

ar temi-gibbs.com 0800 809 809