Life Magazines (Surrey/Berkshire editions) December 2017

and festive partnership 2017

FROM THE

T

EDITOR

he UK’s largest New Year’s Day Classic Gathering at Brooklands Museum will be able to accommodate even more classics next year following the re-opening of the restored Finishing Straight of the world’s first purpose-built Racing Circuit in June. With previous events having attracted upwards of 1,500 classic vehicles even before the extra space became available, the January 1st 2018 Classic Gathering looks set to break all records.

The Mayor of Guildford’s Christmas Concert is one of the musical highlights of the town’s festive season and takes place this year on Sunday, December 10th at Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Guildford commencing at 7pm.

The Godalming Community Gospel Choir, finalists at the BBC Gospel Choir of the Year, are returning to Albury Vineyard on Sunday 10th December for a festive afternoon of wine tasting, mince pies and carols.

Visitors to the vineyard can enjoy samples of Albury’s award-winning sparkling wines whilst listening to a medley of performances from the choir, a unique group of singers from all walks of life with a passion for gospel music, and the afternoon promises Christmas joy for all ages.

Bond Street, especially at this time of year, really does feel like Christmas has arrived. From the flowing lights to the incredible jewellery, Bond Street is a magical place in December. And this was precisely what founder of Berkshire based Jewellers Taylor & Co thought too – and since then they have been on a mission to bring a little bit of Bond Street sparkle to the heart of Berkshire. We caught up with their Founder and Creative Director, Mike Taylor, to find out more.

National charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People has announced that it will be launching a brand-new puppy socialising scheme this month in Berkshire, appealing for more Volunteers to step forward and help the life-transforming charity.

Faye Manning Editor

THE TEAM PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD

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Editor Faye Manning ••••• Editor Assistant Katie Miller ••••• Sub Editor Alex Lux ••••• Fashion Editor Hazel Englander ••••• account Manager Anita Hill ••••• Design/ Production Lisa Wade ••••• Accounts Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet ••••• Sales James Marshall ••••• Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

out & about – We put fantastic local businesses and exciting events in the spotlight each month – i mag e : RHS W IS L E Y

OUT & ABOUT

5, 8, 12 & 15 DECEMBER

Christmas Wreath Making Bring some of the glories of Polesden foliage into your home this Christmas. Join one of our Garden Team in their greenhouse to make a beautiful Christmas Wreath from the natural foliage around Polesden Lacey and the Ranmore Estate. Each session lasts 2 hours, with a maximum of twelve people and the price includes a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. Booking Essential on 01372 452048. Some aerosol sprays may be used so not suitable for children.

Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey RH5 6BD

[events]

the calendar

11 december

Late Night Shopping and Christmas Craft Fair at denbies Between 5pm - 8pm you can browse original gifts, and enjoy music, carolling, free mulled wine and mince pies (Free admission and car parking).

Denbies Wine Estate Ltd London Road Dorking Rh5 6AA

23 december

Santa Paws Dogs deserve Christmas treats too! Bring your furry friend to meet Santa Paws. Come and say hello to Santa Paws and his little helpers, and your dog will receive a festive treat. Booking is not needed. Normal admission charges will apply, plus a minimum donation per dog.

Claremont Landscape Garden, Portsmouth Road, Esher, Surrey KT10 9JG

until 7 december

Flower Arranging for Christmas With your choice of seasonal blooms and foliage and with Jennifer’s expert guidance, you will learn new skills and make gorgeous natural decorations for your home for the Christmas period. In week one you will craft a stunning centerpiece with candles to grace your winter table, and in week two you’ll make a beautiful door wreath to welcome visitors. 12.45pm to 2.25pm, £25.

The Guildford Institute Ward Street Guildford Surrey Surrey GU1 4LH 6 DECEMBER 2017

8, 9, 15 & 16 december

Craft and Gift Market at Guildford Guildhall by Mynt Image Free to enter, quality and not on the high street Craft and Gift Market. Jewellery, glassware, pottery, handbags, leather goods, metal goods, textiles, beauty products, art & photography items, cards, etc etc. Open from 10am to 4pm. Free to enter.

Guildford Guildhall, 131 High Street, City Centre, Guildford, Surrey, Surrey GU1 3AA

until 15 december

Mistletoe and Merriment: Christmas with the Stuarts Find out how to celebrate a restoration Christmas, when King Charles II brought music, food and celebration back! Ham House will be decorated in the style of a Stuart Christmas this December.

With lots of natural greenery in the house, glittering trees and festive decorations in the gardens too!

Ham House and Garden, Ham Street, Ham, Richmond-uponThames, Surrey TW10 7RS

music EVENTS 9 december

until 20 december

The Wisley Christmas Shop From decorations and wreaths to poinsettias, and of course a Christmas tree – your Christmas look starts at Wisley. Gifts for all the family and some treats for you too! The opening times are 9am - 6pm (5pm from 30th October) and late opening to 8pm during pre-Christmas Glow (1st – 23rd December). Sunday opening is 11am - 5pm. The Garden is closed on Christmas Day. RHS Garden Wisley Woking Surrey GU23 6QB

6-9 december

Christmas Tree Festival See this amazing festival of more than 100 decorated trees from a variety of local people, businesses and charities. Everyone is welcome and entry is free of charge. Refreshments available and guest musicians performing throughout.

St Andrew’s Parish Church Farnham Surrey GU9 7PW

16 & 17 december

Christmas animal visit Meet the animals from Millers’ Ark Farm in our courtyard. Come and snuggle up with some furry friends, and also meet Hatchlands’ own resident donkeys, Morris and Callum.

Hatchlands Park, East Clandon, Guildford, Surrey GU4 7RT

26 december

Seasonal Ranger Walks Come and enjoy a guided walk on our wider estate with one of our knowledgeable and experienced Rangers. With lots of different walks throughout the year, discover Polesden Lacey through the changing seasons. Please meet outside the coffee shop in the Dairy Courtyard. Dogs on leads are welcome.

Polesden Lacey, Great Bookham, near Dorking, Surrey, RH5 6BD

Christmas Concert The whole family can enjoy this Chriastmas concert at Caterham Valley United Reformed Church, and get into the Christmas mood!

There will be a varied programme of festive music to welcome in the Christmas season, including carols for choir and audience, & featuring John Rutter’s joyous and tuneful setting of the Magnificat. 7.30pm.

Caterham Valley United Reformed Church, Harestone Hill, Caterham, Surrey CR3 6SX

12 december

Christmas Rock Concert An opportunity to hear St John’s School pupils play alongside other performers singing solos, some of which are their own works.

Many of the peripatetic staff have careers in professional bands and may perform alongside pupils.

5.30pm.

PAC auditorium, St John’s School, Epsom Road, Leatherhead, Surrey KT22 8SP

until 23 december

9, 10, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 & 24 december

Christmas Winter Wonderland Come to Birdworld to meet Santa’s reindeer and some of our friendly farm animals before you enter a magical world full of animated characters in winter wonderland settings. As you walk through the different scenes, you can enjoy the friendly banter with the impish elves before the children meet Santa to receive their present. For those of you who are too old for a present, a mince pie and a hot fruit punch awaits! Park Open 10am to 4.30pm – For Santa visiting times and dates please visit www.birdworld.co.uk/christmas to book your slot in advance.

Birdworld, Holt Pound, Farnham, Surrey GU10 4LD

Stories and Songs with Santa For a magical day out, come and meet Santa at Wisley this festive season. From Wednesday to Friday join us for a classic Christmas tale, have a sing-along and a story with the man himself and receive a small gift. All events start at the Plant Centre Christmas Grotto.

You can book online right up to the day before, plus we also hold back some spaces for on the day for bookings on the day, you can buy a ticket from the Plant Centre.

In 2017 we have expanded the size of the grotto and reduced the size of the groups so that everyone gets more space and time with Santa! Tickets from £12.

RHS Garden Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB DECEMBER 2017 7

OUT & ABOUT

Get that Christmas Tingle

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hat better way to get in the festive mood than gathering your friends and family and enjoying a day at the races. It’s a chance to enjoy the thrill of watching top class equine and human athletes pushing themselves to their limit combined with the fun of choosing a horse to cheer to victory.

Sandown Park Racecourse, Esher, hosts its two-day pre-Christmas jump racing extravaganza on Friday 8th and Saturday 9th December. The flagship race is the Betfair Tingle Creek, which is run on the Saturday and attracts some of the top horses and jockeys in Britain. The Tingle Creek Chase is one of the key races of the season, won in 2016 by the Willie Mullins-trained Un De Sceaux.

The race is steeped in history and has an impressive list of previous champions with the likes of Desert Orchid, Moscow Flyer, Kauto Star, Sprinter Sacre and Sire de Grugy taking their place on the role of honour. The event was first run in 1979, and named in honour of Tingle Creek, a popular National Hunt racehorse in the 1970s.

Away from the top class racing there will be plenty to keep the crowds entertained. A new addition to this year’s Tingle Creek Day is be a Bavarian Beer Hall, complete with Steins and Bratwurst for a real festive experience. Racegoers will have the chance to meet some of the top jockeys before racing starts in the Jockey Signing Hub. There’s also the opportunity to have a go at commentating on a race! Courtesy of the race sponsors a commentary box will be on site for members of the public to have a shot at calling home the winners of previous Tingle Creek races.

8 DECEMBER 2017

After racing racegoers will get a chance at showing off their singing skills with Christmas-themed ‘Rockeoke’. Gates on the Saturday open at 10:30am, with the first race at approximately 12.30pm and last race 3.30pm.

Sandown Park racecourse was founded in 1875 and has provided the backdrop to some of the greatest moments in racing. It was the Queen Mother’s favourite racecourses and offers some of the best viewing in the country. It is situated in the lush Surrey countryside in Esher and is serviced by trains from London Waterloo and Guildford (both 30 minutes).

The event promises to be a great way to kick off your Christmas festivities in style, celebrating with friends and family in the fresh air.

Tickets are on sale, starting from £25. Under 18s go FREE when accompanied by an adult. www.sandown.co.uk

“A new addition to this year’s Tingle Creek Day is be a Bavarian Beer Hall, complete with Steins and Bratwurst for a real festive experience”

FASHION, OUT & ABOUT HEALTH & BEAUTY

SURREY’S FAVOURITE COUNTRY CLUB Discover where you belong at Surrey’s favourite Country Club. For over 40 years, Foxhills has welcomed those with a flair for fitness, budding golfers, spa enthusiasts and more.

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oday, Foxhills features a Youth Club, two Championship golf courses, one par 3 course (the first of its kind in Britain), 70 bedrooms, three restaurants, eleven tennis courts, four squash courts, four swimming pools, an award-winning healthspa, conference and meeting facilities, and a weekly cycling club, capitalising on its status as official resort partner to the OVO Energy Tour of Britain and home

“This family-run resort offers something for the whole family”

10 DECEMBER 2017

Special offer:

to Team GB’s road race cycling team during the London 2012 Olympic Games. Promoting its longstanding ethos of ‘where you belong’, this family-run resort offers something for the whole family; you are guaranteed to feel better when you leave than when you arrived.

Make up for overindulging during the festive season and join before 28 February 2018 to save up to £1,000.

Contact the Membership team on 01932 704450 or membership@foxhills.co.uk to find out more, or visit www.foxhills.co.uk/join/2018.

OUT & ABOUT

Welcoming Barker and Stonehouse

Guildford’s newest furniture retailer, doors open on Boxing Day Pablo loose cover armChair; Helix Grey Rug

Make the most of our fantastic Winter Sale prices with up to 25% off furniture, available from the opening day on Boxing Day to 25 February 2018

Hancock Large Sideboard; Hancock Bench; Hancock Fixed Top Dining Table; Ashton Dining Chair; Cement Boat with Sail

A

re you looking to transform your home into a design haven this New Year or simply add a fabulous statement piece to your existing décor? If the answer is yes, then make sure you head down to the brand-new Barker and Stonehouse store in Guildford to discover a wonderland of furnishing inspiration. Throwing open our doors this coming Boxing Day, the new store will introduce you to carefully curated interior collections that will truly enrich any living space.

Whether you’re enchanted by eclectic designs or hanker for modern minimalism, our ranges offer a wealth of furniture, from sofas and dining solutions, to beds and occasional pieces as well as an extensive range of accessories, lighting and even rugs to suit any taste or property style. Mixing leading brands and one-off vintage pieces, this spectacular store embraces a plethora of looks including the industrial vibe for reclaimed wood, the glamour of metallic and velvets, the soft-washed country comeliness of distressed linens and thick cottons as well as the sleek clean lines of European design.

Let us introduce ourselves…

For those not familiar with the brand, Barker and Stonehouse has been in the business for just over 12 DECEMBER 2017

70 years, having opened its very first store in the North of England in 1946, after founders, Charles Barker and Alex Stonehouse were demobbed from the RAF. Since then, the business has continued to grow, and today it’s run by the third generation of the Barker family, with 11 impressive stores across the country, including the new Guildford location.

Are you a fan of all things vintage? If so, make sure you also check out the restored 1932 Ariel 250 motorcycle that’s displayed in store. Once owned by the company’s co-founder Charles Barker, this bike is just another illustration of our proud heritage and love of classic design.

Meet the store…

It’s not just the products being sold that makes this store stand out! Surpassing the expectations of any out of town retail outlet, the store’s structure, sleek design and layout has been carefully considered too, making it a truly remarkable and welcome addition to the Guildford area. Offering a substantial 42,000 sq ft of space, spread across two floors, this store hosts a range of imaginative room sets and visual displays fashioned from a dazzling array of Barker and Stonehouse’s beautifully designed furniture and accessories. Plus, there is plenty of on-site parking right outside to boot!

Relax and refuel…

Brand new to the Guildford area, our store will also house a fantastic contemporary café that boasts a delicious menu too tempting to resist!

Pablo Loose Cover Armchair

Tree Trunk Cushion

Hexagonal Glass Lantern

Above, from left: Livata Corner Sofa; Corby Black Floor Lamp / The new Barker and Stonehouse Guildford store / New Frontier Mango Wood Sleigh Bed; New Frontier Mango Wood 2 Door Wardrobe

The Queensbury Coffee House will give you the perfect excuse to unwind after a busy few hours of shopping or a spot to catch up with friends. You can choose a tasty treat from a menu that offers freshly baked bread, cakes, pastries, sandwiches, as well as an array of speciality coffees, teas and drinks.

Designers Galore…

All the designer brands we work with bring something unique to Barker and Stonehouse, fusing a superior aesthetic with time-honoured skills to create furniture that is made to the highest of standards.

Throughout our 71-year history we have always championed homegrown manufacturing and quality design. This is testament to our long-standing associations with British brands such as Ercol and Somnus who have both worked with Barker and Stonehouse since our conception in 1946. We were also the first ever stockist of British sofa leaders, Tetrad, and have worked with them since the company began in the sixties.

Additionally, you’ll discover pure English luxury from upholstery brand Duresta, as well as handmade natural mattresses from Vispring which offer a wonderful night’s sleep. On hand to inject a sense of theatrical drama to any interior, make sure you also explore the eccentric designs from internationally-acclaimed brand Timothy Oulton.

The Guildford store is also lucky enough to welcomes new designers to its portfolio, so look out for British born and bred, Huutt, who offer stylish upholstery made entirely in the UK, as well as the Swiss brand Yask, makers of bold and distinctive solid wooden furniture.

Vintage Discoveries…

Travelling to far flung places across the globe, Barker and Stonehouse search high and low for glorious

Riva 1920 Leather Suede Armchair

vintage furniture finds. Discover an assortment of pieces that are sure to add interest into your homes, from amusing old signage, antique storage and lighting to intricate carved Asian doors and much more.

Caring for the Environment…

As the UK’s largest retailer of beautiful reclaimed furniture, here at Barker and Stonehouse, we are very mindful of our impact on the environment.

Valuing sustainability, we carefully select the brands we work with, measuring both business and environmental principles and ensuring that they align with the fundamental values we hold so dear at Barker and Stonehouse.

In 2008, Barker and Stonehouse also co-started a community reforestation programme, based in Indonesia, called Trees 4 Trees. To date, we have already helped over 14,000 farming families, farmers and landowners in the local area, by providing them with free seedlings from high value species such as teak, mahogany and mango and teaching them planting, forestry and maintenance practices. We also sell furniture ranges that use wood from this project which are available to buy online or in one of our fabulous stores.

Each Barker and Stonehouse store also has energy saving at its heart, and Guildford is no exception, thanks to its energy-saving lighting and thermal insulation that has been incorporated throughout the building’s construction.

So what are you waiting for? Come Boxing Day, head down to Guildford’s hottest new store in town and snap up a homeware treat or two for you to enjoy for many years to come.

The new Barker and Stonehouse Guildford opens on Boxing Day, 26th December from 9am. Address: Barker and Stonehouse, Ladymead, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 1DL www.barkerandstonehouse.co.uk / 01483 908 320 Wylie Corner Sofa; Winnie Side Table; Winnie Square Coffee Table; Edward Wooden Floor Lamp

Little Tree Furniture Shimla 6 drawer Multi Chest

Khalessi Throw

Palm Tree Table Lamp

Geradis Pair of Pots

DECEMBER 2017 13

OUT & ABOUT

Christmas Glow at RHS

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xcitement is starting to build at RHS Garden Wisley in Surrey ahead of the highly anticipated return of its magical Christmas Glow spectacle, with the event set to be bigger than ever. Running from 1 December 2017 to 3 January 2018, visitors will be able to enjoy the atmosphere of the festive season with a unique experience at the world-class garden.

Wisley Sparkles with Christmas Glow Christmas Glow showcases giant botanicallyinspired illuminations that enhance the natural beauty of RHS Garden Wisley and provide visitors with a magical new view after dusk, with the garden staying open until 8pm.

The immersive festive experience follows a trail around the garden with views of impressive lighting displays along the way. This year, the stunning lighting creations, made by Jigantics, will include installations of tulips, snowdrops, waterlilies, hoyas and lilies to name just a few.

14 DECEMBER 2017

The route is paved and guides visitors through popular locations in the garden, such as the Rock Garden, Seven Acres, Jellicoe Canal, and The Glasshouse. Many of Wisley’s iconic trees around the garden will also be illuminated to showcase their beauty after hours.

The Magnificent Glasshouse One of the most festive locations on the Christmas Glow trail is the magnificent Glasshouse. As well as being illuminated, there will be a spectacular display themed on the popular Christmas poem ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’ by Clement Clarke Moore. The scene is set in a magical woodland glade with poinsettia trees, ferns and red flowering azaleas. In the middle of the festive glade is an abandoned sleigh and reindeers.

The Glasshouse will also include a chimney display adorned with presents, surrounded by ten Christmas trees decorated by school children. Also, don’t miss the beautiful lanterns surrounding The Glasshouse and the illuminated tropical zone.

“One of the most festive locations on the Christmas Glow trail is the magnificent Glasshouse. As well as being illuminated, there will be a spectacular display themed on the popular Christmas poem ‘A Visit from St. Nicholas’”

Garden Wisley THE DETAILS Opening times and ticket prices may vary by event. Full details can be found at www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

Opening times

Enjoy the Christmas Glow experience at RHS Garden Wisley from 1 December 2017 to 3 January 2018. The garden will be open until 8pm, with last entry 7pm. The Glasshouse closes at 7:30pm.

Festive Shopping Delights When visiting RHS Garden Wisley during Christmas Glow, be sure to make the most of the festive shopping opportunities available. The Wisley Gift Shop has a large dedicated Christmas area filled with festive delights, such as decorations, festive lighting, food, home ware and books – it’s the ideal

place to find the perfect gift.

A visit to the Wisley Plant Centre is a must for those looking for the perfect Christmas tree, fresh handmade wreaths, gifts for gardeners and Christmas plants to take home, such as a Poinsettia or ready to gift planted container.

For further details about Christmas Glow and the festive season at RHS Garden Wisley, including how to book tickets, visit www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/wisley.

RHS Garden Wisley, Wisley, Woking, Surrey, GU23 6QB; 01483 224234 www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

RHS Garden Wisley is open every day except for Christmas Day Monday – Friday from 10am - 4:30pm from 23 October 2017 to 2 March 2018 Saturday – Sunday (including Bank Holidays) from 9am - 4:30pm from 23 October 2017 to 2 March 2018) Last admission is one hour before closing time. Open late especially for Glow. The garden closes at 5pm on Christmas Eve, and is closed on Christmas Day

TICKETS During Christmas Glow, non-members can benefit from a special offer to save 25% on entry after 3pm – when the lights look their best. RHS members enjoy free entry with a family guest (entitlements may vary according to membership type) Non-members (excluding Gift Aid): Adult £14.00 Family (2 plus 2) £36.00 Children 5 – 16yrs £7.00 Children 4 and under Free Groups (10+ adults) £11.70 per person Clockwise from main image: The Glasshouse at RHS Garden Wisley illuminated by the Glow Exhibition (Joanna Kossak); Santa’s Christmas Grotto (Julian Weigall); Father Christmas and Christmas decorations at RHS Wisley Christmas shop and display, 2017 (Paul Debois); Gingerbread house in The Glasshouse (Paul Debois); Jigantics floral light installations at night (Lee Beel); Jigantics snowdrop light installations by the entrance (Lee Beel) All images ©RHS

DECEMBER 2017 15

OUT & ABOUT

Candlelit Christmas Concert in aid of The Children’s Trust

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lassical Christmas music, festive readings and much-loved carols will be performed at the Candlelit Christmas Concert in aid of The Children’s Trust on Monday 11 December at Holy Trinity, London.

Hosted by journalist and presenter Nicholas Owen, and with readings by Hollywood actress Joely Richardson and broadcaster Angela Rippon CBE, the evening promises to be a night of festive cheer.

There will be performances from recorder virtuoso Piers Adams of Red Priest, soprano Ana Maria Rincon and the Amici Ensemble, as well as The Chichester University Orchestra, Rupert Johnston and the James Allen Prep School Choir.

Jamie Pourier-Benham, fundraising manager at The Children’s Trust says: “Holy Trinity will provide a beautiful setting for our Candlelit Christmas Concert and is the perfect way to start the Christmas season. We are extremely grateful for the commitment and help of the committee and the performers who kindly donate their time to help raise money for children with brain injury – without them the show could not go on!”

16 DECEMBER 2017

Tickets for the concert start from £25 each and can be purchased from www.thechildrenstrust.org.uk/christmasconcert.

Gala ticket holders (£50) will have the option to join the performers for a sparkling post-concert reception of drinks and canapés.

Actress Joely Richardson announced as charity Ambassador for The Children’s Trust Joely Richardson was recently announced as an official Ambassador of The Children’s Trust, the UK’s leading charity for children with brain injury, following several visits to its national rehabilitation centre in Tadworth, Surrey.

The actress, who is passionate about raising awareness of brain injury after her sister Natasha Richardson sadly died from a brain injury in 2009, spent time with staff, children and young people staying at The Children’s Trust for specialist brain injury rehabilitation. Joely also met with Medical Director and Consultant Paediatrician, Professor Gareth Morgan and Dr Carolyn Dunford to discuss brain injury research.

Commenting on the work of The Children’s Trust, Joely said: “I found The Children’s Trust to be one of the most inspirational places I have ever been. It supports children, and also their families, helping them live the best lives possible following a brain injury. I know as Christmas approaches they will be doing everything possible to make it a magical time. I am sadly aware just how devastating brain injury can be. In 2009 I lost my beloved sister, Natasha, after an accident resulted in a brain injury.

“When I visited The Children’s Trust I met some very special children. I have seen first-hand the excellent work The Children’s Trust does to support children and young people, and I am privileged to be part of such a wonderful charity.”

OUT & ABOUT

Charity to launch puppy socialising scheme in Berkshire

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ational charity Hearing Dogs for Deaf People has announced that it will be launching a brand-new puppy socialising scheme this month in Berkshire, appealing for more Volunteers to step forward and help the life-transforming charity.

The charity desperately needs more dog lovers to apply to become puppy socialisers and is now seeking volunteers in areas of Berkshire, to care for adorable hearing dog puppies for one year.

Volunteers receive full support and guidance from Hearing Dogs for Deaf People and will learn to teach the puppy basic obedience skills.

Victoria Leedham, Volunteering Manager at Hearing Dogs for Deaf People, says “We are delighted to be launching our puppy socialising scheme in Berkshire. The new project will enable the Charity to train more puppies to change the lives of deaf people, and we are now appealing for dog lovers in the area to apply to be a puppy socialising volunteer. Volunteering is an extremely rewarding experience, and puppy socialising is a great opportunity to learn or improve your dog-training skills - and meet lots of new friends along the way!”

Local Volunteer Tania Leman, a Hearing Dog Volunteer for over 10 years, said “I became a Volunteer for Hearing Dogs because I wanted a dog but was unsure about the financial and long term commitment of owning our own dog. Since my volunteering journey started my life has changed in

18 DECEMBER 2017

so many ways. I have gained skills I never knew I had such as dog training, dog behaviour, British Sign Language and deaf awareness. I would encourage those considering becoming a Volunteer to do so!

There’s support from the Hearing Dog family – fellow volunteers and staff – every step of the way and the day you hear ‘your puppy has passed tests and been successfully matched will give you the proudest feeling.

Volunteering for Hearing Dogs for Deaf People will help create life changing partnerships for deaf people. It will change your life too!

Puppies will be placed with their volunteer socialiser at around eight weeks of age and will work with them at home for around 14 months, before they return to the Charity for further training.

Volunteers should be over 18, have enough time to care for and socialise a puppy on a daily basis, own a car and have access to a secure garden. Puppy socialising volunteers receive full support from Hearing Dogs, as well as regular home visits and puppy training classes.

Hearing loss affects 1 in 6 people in the UK, with more than 900,000 severely or profoundly deaf. Since its launch at Crufts in 1982, Hearing Dogs has become a world-leader in breeding and training hearing dogs, but the charity relies heavily on amazing volunteers who help socialise puppies, teaching them basic obedience skills in the early stages of their development.

“The new project will enable the Charity to train more puppies to change the lives of deaf people”

THE DETAILS For more information please visit www.hearingdogs.org.uk/ puppysocialising or email volunteer@hearingdogs.org.uk

OUT & ABOUT

THE 2017 MAYOR OF GUILDFORD’S CHRISTMAS CONCERT T he Mayor of Guildford’s Christmas Concert is one of the musical highlights of the town’s festive season and takes place this year on Sunday, December 10th at Holy Trinity Church, High Street, Guildford commencing at 7pm.

Organised by the Rotary Club of Guildford, this popular annual concert is now in its 66th year and will once again feature Guildford’s Vivace Chorus, under the baton of their musical director Jeremy Backhouse, as well as seasonal readings by members of the choir.

Besides all the usual well-known hymns and carols, the Vivace Chorus will also be performing musical arrangements seasonal works by David Willcocks, John Rutter, Bob Chilcott and Will Todd.

Every year, the Mayor’s Concert attracts capacity audiences to Holy Trinity Church and raises muchneeded funds for local charities, supported by the

20 DECEMBER 2017

“Every year, the Mayor’s Concert attracts capacity audiences to Holy Trinity Church and raises much-needed funds for local charities”

Mayor of Guildford during his mayoral year. The charity benefiting from this year’s Concert will be ‘The Mayor’s of Guildford’s Local Distress Fund’, which provides assistance for local people, who struggle to make ends meet on a daily basis and who need the most basic items, which most of us just take for granted.

A retiring collection will also be taking place at the end of the concert for the Mayor’s personal chosen charity the British Heart Foundation.

Tickets for the concert are priced at £10 for adults and £6 for children under 12, and are available in advance from Guildford’s Tourist Information Centre at 155, High Street, Guildford; or by calling them on 01483-444334 or at the door. Tickets can also be booked online at www.visitguildford.com Seasonal refreshments will be available during the concert’s interval.

OUT & ABOUT

GET YOUR SKATES ON THIS WINTER A guide to London’s coolest ice rinks

London is a wonderful place to be at Christmas. With twinkling Christmas lights and trees set to the backdrop of some of London’s most iconic locations, a trip to an ice rink is a must-do for the views alone. They are only open for a limited time so get your skates on before it’s too late!

NEW FOR 2017!

GREENWICH WINTERTIME FESTIVAL

SKATE AT SOMERSET HOUSE WITH FORTNUM & MASON Open until12 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Enjoy the perfect winter day out at Somerset House.

Skate day or night with family and friends on London’s most beautiful ice rink. New for 2017 are Skate Lates, a programme of DJ music nights - the perfect start to your weekend. Warm up with wintry food and drinks in Fortnum’s Lodge, or watch the action rink-side from the Skate Lounge. The West Wing will once again transform into Fortnum’s Christmas Arcade. Learn to skate or perfect your skills with Skate School, and let little ones have a go on the ice at the Polar Cub Club.

Book online at www.somersethouse.org.uk or call Ticketmaster on 0844 847 1520.

HYDE PARK WINTER WONDERLAND Open until 1 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Skate on the UK’s largest and most magical openair ice rink, set around Hyde Park’s picturesque Victorian bandstand. Once dark, the rink will be lit 22 DECEMBER 2017

with thousands of lights, accompanied by Christmas soundtracks to get you in the festive mood. Ideal for all ages and abilities, it’s a great family day out which the kids will love. Ice skating sessions tend to sellout in advance, especially at weekends and evenings, so booking ahead is highly recommended. www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

Experience the magic of skating on a bespoke, covered clear canopied ice rink in the historic courtyards of the Old Royal Naval College, on the banks of the River Thames. Each 3-hour session begins with an on-ice performance by world-class freestylers before becoming a public ice rink for you, your friends and family to enjoy. Greenwich Winter Time Festival also offers artisan food stalls, an independent lifestyle market, enchanting entertainment for all ages and the opportunity to visit Father Christmas!

Visit www.greenwichwintertime.com for more details.

ICE SKATING AT CANARY WHARF Open until 24 February 2018 (except Christmas Day)

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM Open until 7 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Set against the stunning backdrop of one of London’s best-loved landmarks, the Natural History Museum Ice Rink is open throughout the winter period. The glistening ice rink which runs alongside South Kensington’s tree-lined streets will be topped off with a sparkling 30ft Christmas tree. Also, luxury chocolatier Hotel Chocolat will be serving their signature hot chocolate and other hot drinks for skaters to enjoy and indulge in. Calling all little ones looking to perfect their skating skills the penguin skate club will be running lessons for children aged four to eight.

Visit www.nhmskating.com to book tickets.

SKATE AT THE ROYAL PALACE Open until 7 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) For an unforgettable festive experience, look no further than Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink. The 1,040-square-metre outdoor ice skating rink offers spectacular views of the magnificent Tudor palace, where King Henry VIII once lived. There will be fun and excitement for all age groups and skating abilities, and The Ice Rink Café & Bar will offer a delicious winter menu and drinks including mulled wine, a selection of Champagne, Prosecco, wines and craft beers. And for little skaters there is a children’s menu that includes chicken drumsticks, chips, sausage baguettes and sweet treats.

For more information visit www.hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

Set to the backdrop of Canary Wharf ’s twinkling towers and enchanting greenery, this spectacular outdoor ice rink is back and runs for sixteen magical weeks in the picturesque surroundings of Canada Square Park. Offering fun for all the family, new for this year will be a dedicated children’s skating area. Back by popular demand, the famous Ice Rink Canary Wharf skate path returns for 2017/2018 following a new route under the canopy of trees.

Skaters can expect a few new surprises along the way this season with exciting new activities, including winter sports. If you want to eat, drink and shop all in one go, Canary Wharf is the place.

For more information visit www.icerinkcanarywharf.co.uk

TOWER SKATE Open until 2 January 2018 (except Christmas Day) Ice skate in an unforgettable setting within the walls of the iconic Tower of London and take in the magic and ambience of the castle beside the Thames. There’s something for everyone whether you are a novice or an expert. Try the early morning sessions – perfect for little skaters and families, leading into picturesque afternoons and bustling evenings. The Tower of London Ice Rink gets an extra helping of stunning in the evenings when the lights, set against the castle wall adds to the dramatic jaw dropping views. For history with a modern twist, there’s no better winter location.

For more details visit www.toweroflondonicerink.com

NEW FOR 2017!

WINTERVILLE, CLAPHAM COMMON Open until 3rd January 2018 (except Christmas Eve & Christmas Day) Offering a completely different festive experience, Winterville also brings you the first ever ice rink on Clapham Common. The all-weather, outdoor rink is 600 square metres and constructed from real ice, and will be open seven days a week. And if gliding across the Common doesn’t appeal, then you can enjoy a winter warmer in the neighbouring cafe, where you can check out all the action in comfort.

For more information visit www.winterville.co.uk

OPEN ON CHRISTMAS DAY! JW3 ICE RINK Open until 7 January 2018 including Christmas Day! A smaller venue but definitely needs a mention as it the only ice rink in London open on Christmas Day. With a skating area of 200m2 skaters can enjoy special events, glimmering lights, vibrant music and an electric atmosphere. For those who aren’t steady on the ice, helpful penguin stabilisers will be available and for less confident little ones, they can have fun on the seated banana toboggans. Kosher tasty treats are available at the in-house Zest café and restaurant, with hot chocolate, mulled wine, pizzas, doughnuts and more.

341-351 Finchley Road, NW3 6ET To book your tickets visit www.jw3.org.uk or call the JW3 Box Office on 020 7433 8988.

DECEMBER 2017 23

OUT & ABOUT

Denbies Sparkling Christmas 2017 A

pproaching the expansive Denbies Estate, for a moment, one could really be anywhere in the world, acres and acres of vineyard rolling into the distant hills, a captivating sight – in the middle of Surrey!

Denbies is open daily to the public and the chateau style winery hosts two restaurants, wine and gift shop, art gallery, exhibition and conference rooms.

Denbies runs indoor classic wine tasting tours and outdoor vineyard tours daily. There is also a charming Farmhouse Bed and Breakfast with seven en-suite bedrooms adjacent to the winery.

The latter part of the year is the highlight for Denbies Wine Estate.

The harvest; all consuming, the highpoint of the year for the vineyard and winery, when days roll endlessly into nights, the weather under constant scrutiny to ensure that every single grape is picked at the critical moment and the reward of finishing the harvest, satisfied that another vintage is ready for production. 2017 was an unknown, early frost meant that the volume prediction was lower than normal. However, the blazing June, followed by a temperate summer enabled the vineyard to recover sufficiently to deliver excellent quality and reasonable quantity, the 2017 vintage is predicted to produce some extremely fine wines.

Which leads very swiftly into the Christmas period, Denbies is the perfect destination for celebrating, shopping, dining and enjoying the 265 acres of vineyard which boasts 7 miles of public footpath.

Denbies Sparkling Christmas party nights are the ultimate party destination. Whether dining under 24 DECEMBER 2017

Image: Helen Dixon

the stars in the beautiful Conservatory Atrium or dancing the night away in the vaulted Cellar there is something to suit everyone’s requirements to create a truly memorable night out. The Gallery Restaurant, located on the third floor, fine dining in contemporary surroundings boasts the most impressive views of the vineyard and as the evenings draw in, creates an intimate dining area, perfect for smaller gatherings.

There are many reasons to visit Denbies throughout the festive period, the Denbies Wine and Gift Shop offers a wide range of carefully selected gifts, wine tasting is available in the shop combined with expert guidance from the team.

Denbies Late Night Shopping and Christmas Craft Fairs take place on Monday 27 November and Monday 11 December between 5- 8pm with original gifts, music, carolling, free mulled wine and mince pies (Free admission and car parking).

New for 2017 is DENBIES 5K SANTA FUN RUN taking place on Sunday 10 December 10am, full details are on the website. Also not to be missed is Santa’s Cellar Grotto, which includes a warm welcome from Santa`s elves, Outdoor train ride followed by a visit to see Father Christmas in his Cellar Grotto, £8.00 per child which includes a gift from Santa, train ride, Santa`s sticker book and Christmas crafts in Santa`s cellar, £2.50 per adult which includes the train ride and mince pies in the cellar.

So whatever your Christmas wishes are, join them for a very warm festive welcome.

Denbies Wine Estate Ltd London Road Dorking Rh5 6AA. Reservations Visit www.denbies.co.uk; T. 01306 876616

Opposite The Ivy

OUT & ABOUT

Helen Allingham Until 18 February 2018, Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village

Helen Allingham, Harvest Moon , 1879, watercolour. Private Collection

Helen Allingham, Feeding the Fowls, Pinner, watercolour. Royal Watercolour Society

This winter, Watts Gallery – Artists’ Village presents the UK’s first major public art gallery exhibition devoted to the artist Helen Allingham RWS (1848-1926).

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llingham is one of the most familiar and well-loved of Victorian artists – in 1890 she became the first woman to be admitted to full membership of the Royal Watercolour Society and her work was highly acclaimed by leading contemporary critics, including John Ruskin. Despite this success there have been few exhibitions dedicated to her work.

Watts Gallery, Down Lane, Compton, Guildford GU3 1DQ www.wattsgallery.org.uk 26 DECEMBER 2017

This exhibition will seek to reassert the reputation of Helen Allingham as a leading woman artist and as a key figure in Victorian art. Bringing together rarely seen works from private collections together with important paintings from public collections, the exhibition will demonstrate Allingham’s extraordinary talent as a watercolourist and will examine how she became one of the most successful creative women of the nineteenth century.

Having moved to London aged just seventeen, Allingham trained at the Royal Female School of Art and the prestigious Royal Academy Schools.

By 1870, she was pursuing a professional career as a graphic artist and children’s book illustrator, becoming the only female founding member of The Graphic, a new illustrated weekly magazine.

Illuminating Allingham’s early career the exhibition will display an array of graphic works, including the illustrations to Thomas Hardy’s Far From the Madding Crowd when first published as a serial in the Cornhill Magazine.

Following her marriage to the renowned Irish poet William Allingham in 1874, Allingham began to focus on working in watercolour producing vivid depictions of rural England. As the boom of industrial development continued to threaten traditional rural life, Allingham’s art captured

unspoiled landscapes and historic cottage architecture in exquisite detail; she was passionately concerned for the preservation of the English countryside. In 1886 she became the first woman artist to be awarded a solo exhibition at the Fine Art Society entitled Surrey Cottages. Her depictions of Shere, Witley, Haslemere and other villages across the region will be included in the show. Many of these picturesque timber-framed cottages can still be identified today.

While living in Surrey, Allingham became friends with the leading Arts and Crafts gardener, Gertrude Jekyll, painting vibrant images of Jekyll’s experimental planting at Munstead Wood.

Preparatory studies of plants and flowers will be exhibited alongside a depiction of Jekyll’s famous South Border in full bloom.

Widowed at the age of 41 Allingham took on the sole responsibility of bringing up her three young children, pursuing a professional career right up until her death in 1926 age 78.

Helen Allingham continues Watts Gallery Trust’s programme of exhibitions devoted to pioneering women artists. Guest curated by the pre-eminent Allingham scholar Annabel Watts, it offers an unprecedented overview of the artist’s work. It will be accompanied by the publication of a new edition of Annabel’s book on Allingham. Drawing on extensive research, this publication seeks out the actual cottages painted by Helen Allingham a century ago, comparing how they look today with the original watercolours.

Dr Nicholas Tromans, Brice Curator, says: “Allingham was a hugely popular Victorian artist, and having got to know her work at first hand for this exhibition, I can see why. Her pictures are exquisite objects, expertly created. They also manage to evoke a very particular atmosphere, a sweetly melancholy depiction of a rural world which is somehow both real and dream-like.”

Guest curator Annabel Watts says: “There is much more to Helen Allingham’s cottage pictures than meets the eye; they represent her concern for the future of the English countryside. She witnessed for herself the unnecessary demolition of ancient buildings by unscrupulous landlords and her paintings serve as a permanent record of their existence whatever their fate might ultimately be.”

OUT & ABOUT

New Spaces and Entrances Point to a Record New Year’s Day Gathering at Brooklands Museum, January 1st 2018

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he UK’s largest New Year’s Day Classic Gathering at Brooklands Museum will be able to accommodate even more classics next year following the re-opening of the restored Finishing Straight of the world’s first purpose-built Racing Circuit in June. With previous events having attracted upwards of 1,500 classic vehicles even before the extra space became available, the January 1st 2018 Classic Gathering looks set to break all records. And with the massive Brooklands Aircraft Factory development now completed, the Museum will be able to welcome back into their own dedicated paddock the modern sports and supercars for which there was no room on New Year’s Day in 2017. The Straight now links the Paddock and iconic Members’ Banking as it did in the Track’s heyday before World War Two and all these areas will be used to accommodate an unparalleled variety of classic cars, commercials, vans and motorcycles – everything from Abarth to Zündapp - on January 1st.

To ease traffic flow and speed up entry, there will be three entrance points in operation. Entry to the main Museum site, through the Campbell Gate off Brooklands Road, will be restricted to pre-1988 (“E”-registration) vehicles and for Clubs with pre-booked, pre-paid spaces. Newer sports and super cars will have space dedicated to them at the northern end of The Heights, which is now directly connected to the main Museum site by a new entrance. Entry to this area before Noon will be via the Wellington Way entrance to The Heights and

28 DECEMBER 2017

after 12 o’clock via the Campbell Gate. Brooklands Trust Members in pre-1988 classics will access the Museum site via the Vickers Bridge via MercedesBenz World until Noon and then via the Campbell Gate. All other vehicles will be accommodated in the overflow car parks adjacent to the Museum and visitors are advised to observe road signage which will be clearly visible on the day.

Museum Director & CEO Allan Winn says: “We’re absolutely committed to keeping the New Year’s Day event here the biggest and best and we welcome all enthusiasts no matter what vehicle they arrive in, which is why it is necessary for people bringing newer vehicles to follow the entry directions and signage designed to streamline the whole process.”

Since the last New Year’s Day Gathering the World War Two Hangar, which had stood on the Finishing Straight since 1940, has been dismantled, restored and relocated to its new position and re-interpreted as the Brooklands Aircraft Factory.

Visitors attending the Gathering will be able to see inside this vast, unique exhibition space which tells the story of aviation design, testing and manufacture over an 80 year period at Brooklands through interactive displays, assembly lines and workshops amongst the Museum’s aircraft collection. Beyond this on a connecting walkway from a new mezzanine level is the Flight Shed which houses some of the Museum’s live aircraft, and leads out to the north end of the Finishing Straight.

The gates open at 9am and as usual, there will be a Winter Barbeque and other (guaranteed turkeyfree!) food outlets in addition to the Sunbeam Café for lunches and snacks. Additionally, visitors have the chance to ‘Race, Fly or Drive’ in the state-ofthe-art 4D Theatre located opposite Concorde, which will be open for the half-hour ‘Concorde Experience’. For youngsters, the Discovery Centre and soft play area inside the Sunbeam Café will be open, so there will be something to entertain everyone.

“Since the last New Year’s Day Gathering the World War Two Hangar, which had stood on the Finishing Straight since 1940, has been dismantled, restored and relocated to its new position”

THE DETAILS Admission is £13.50 for adults, £11.50 for seniors, £7 for children (aged 5 – 16) and just £35 for a family ticket. The Concorde Experience is £5 for adults, £3 for children. Rides in the 4D Theatre* are £4 for adults, £2 for children. *Height and other restrictions apply

OUT & ABOUT

ALED JONES:

JOIN ALED FOR A SPECIAL ONE-OFF CONCERT AT G LIVE ON DECEMBER 21 With the success of over 10 million album sales and counting, Aled Jones presents his new album, One Voice: Believe

“After beginning his career at the age of 12, Aled became one of the world’s most successful boy sopranos”

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led is the original crossover star and has had an extraordinary career over the past three decades. After beginning his career at the age of 12, Aled became one of the world’s most successful boy sopranos, releasing 12 hit albums in 4 years with the defining moment being Walking in the Air, the hit song from the animated film The Snowman.

As a broadcaster, he has forged an extensive career, having worked for BBC Radio 2 and 3, in addition to a regular spot on BBC Radio Wales, which he has held for the last 15 years. Aled also hosts the Classic FM Sunday Breakfast Show and has become a popular favourite on the station. His own show ITV Weekend returns to our screens in April, along with BBC1’s Going Back Giving Back, which is back for a second series. Aled continues to record and perform alongside his radio and TV career.

Tickets: £29.00, £36.50, £42.00; Concessions: £26.00, £33.50, £39.00; Groups 8+: Save £5.00. Book by phone: 01483 369350 (Monday – Saturday, 10am-6pm); Online: GLive.co.uk

30 NOVEMBER 2017

C r e aT i n g y o u r p e r f e C T h o m e o f f i C e .

Tel 01932 786429 or 07973 747076 • andrew@morganstewartinteriors.co.uk www.morganstewartinteriors.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

P

Until Monday 1st January 2018 (closed on Christmas day)

WR Events and The Royal Parks are delighted to announce that Hyde Park Winter Wonderland will be returning for its 11th year this winter. The event has become a must-do attraction for Londoners, visitors and tourists alike. The UK’s number one Christmas destination will host an array of new attractions and entertainment, as well as the return of many visitor favourites.

The UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink will be located around the picturesque Victorian bandstand. The rink stretches over 1,600m² with live music playing day and night as skaters take to the ice. The Magical Ice Kingdom returns with a new theme ‘Deep Sea Adventure’ featuring an awe inspiring underwater journey of myth and mystery, made completely from snow and ice.

Family favourite, Zippos Circus, will be back with their brand new daytime show ‘Zippos Christmas Circus’ and an all-new evening performance of ‘Cirque Berserk’ showcasing jaw-dropping aerial stunts, motorbikes on high wire, spectacular trapeze and concludes with a must-see finale.

New for 2017/18, The Imperial Ice Stars presents a new interpretation of the classic tale with Cinderella on Ice, featuring world-class ice skating. The captivating show combines powerful storytelling with elegant choreography to bring a modern twist to this treasured fairy tale favourite.

A must for those who want to watch the action from above, the iconic Giant Observation Wheel will once again illuminate London’s skyline, offering spectacular views. A highlight for young children, The Sooty Christmas Show will see the nation’s

32 DECEMBER 2017

much loved bear making a reappearance with a brand new Christmas show.

For those wanting to soak up the festive atmosphere, the Angels Christmas market will feature over 150 chalets and offers a wide range of unique gifts.

No festive day out would be complete without Father Christmas. Santa Land is an enchanting experience for young visitors and gives families the chance to meet Santa and his elves, as well as explore the inside of his toy workshop.

Bar Hütte will make its London debut at this year’s Hyde Park Winter Wonderland. Creating a mini village of Alpine huts in the heart of Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, this unique take on ‘Alpine Après Ski’ offers visitors an exclusive and festive get-together venue for karaoke (or Carol-oke since it’s Christmas!) and cocktails. The hüttes can be enjoyed by friends, Christmas parties and families alike.

For the last 10 years, Hyde Park Winter Wonderland has been hugely popular with members of the Royal family and the celebrity crowd. Guests who have been spotted enjoying the festivities have included: Duchess of Cambridge & Prince George, David & Brooklyn Beckham, Simon Cowell, Mel C, Nicole Scherzinger, Kate Moss, Naomi Campbell, Caroline Flack, Elle Macpherson, Tom Cruise, Elizabeth Hurley, Amanda Holden and David Cameron.

For more details and to purchase tickets for the Ice Rink, Magical Ice Kingdom, Cinderella on Ice, Bar Ice, Giant Observation Wheel, Zippos Christmas Circus, Cirque Berserk & The Sooty Christmas Show, visit www.hydeparkwinterwonderland.com

“The UK’s largest outdoor Ice Rink will be located around the picturesque Victorian bandstand”

Follow on Facebook: www.facebook.com/ winterwonderlanduk Twitter: @WinterWonderLDN Instagram: @WinterWonderLDN Times: 10am – 10pm daily (except Friday 17th November – opens at 5pm)

OUT & ABOUT

HARRODS AND DOLCE & GABBANA

ANNOUNCE FESTIVE PARTNERSHIP Harrods and Dolce & Gabbana partner on a programme of activity including:

This year Harrods and Dolce & Gabbana have joined forces to celebrate the 2017 festive season with an unparalleled partnership. Until 28th December a traditional and festive Italian atmosphere is the main focus of the world’s most famous department store. The partnership features special window displays, dedicated popup spaces, a traditional Italian street market, as well as a dedicated Dolce & Gabbana Christmas Tree.

34 DECEMBER 2017

• The windows on Brompton Road & Hans Crescent take inspiration from the Sicilian puppet theatre, whose protagonists will be two very special guests in the form of marionettes: Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana. The two charming puppets will recount the world of Dolce & Gabbana and all the inspirations that animate it, from fine tailoring to fragrances to the poetry of everyday life.

• The Harrods Christmas Tree will be designed

by Dolce & Gabbana and situated outside door 5 on Hans Crescent. The tree will be decorated with gold ribbons illuminated by colourful lights symbolising Domenico Dolce and Stefano Gabbana’s holiday cheers.

• An exclusive collection designed

by Dolce & Gabbana including ready-to-wear across menswear, womenswear,

childrenswear and accessories are featured, together with a collection of Dolce & Gabbana Men’s Fine Jewellery including cufflinks, rings and pendants.

• An exclusive pair of Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses for Harrods that recall a night full of stars.

The frame is encrusted with bright crystals that illuminate the corners of the frame in a semi-lunar shape whilst the lenses are a dark blue.

• The new Dolce & Gabbana Make up collections: Emotioneyes and Royal Parade, exclusively sold at Harrods in the UK; along with the two new Velvet fragrances: Amber Skin and Amber Sun and the recently launched The One Eau de Toilette.

• Every floor of the department store is custom decorated for the occasion, starting on the ground floor with a special pop-up boutique and a Christmas market on the 4th floor displaying accessories, ready-to-wear, toys and gift ideas, many created exclusively for Harrods.

“We put our personal [selves] in everything we do,” Gabbana says of this year’s partnership. “For me, Christmas is the tree and the nativity, friends and love and all of the most warming things… and now we are [bringing] it to Harrods.”

This is not the first time Harrods has invited a single brand to deck its halls for the holiday. Last year, Burberry installed “A very British fairy-tale” in the store’s windows, with items designed just for Harrods available for purchase inside.

For further details visit www.harrods.com/dolce-and-gabbana

OUT & ABOUT

The World’s Most Expensive Christmas Crackers £4,018,600

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he disappointment when you get the wrong end of the Christmas cracker this year could hurt just a little bit more, as instead of missing out on a plastic toy or silver thimble, you could be missing out on the most luxurious treat ever!

The luxury launches website VeryFirstTo.com is offering the world’s most expensive Christmas crackers. Your guests will be in for a real treat - they could be going home with the Predator 84 yacht from Sunseeker, where the key fob is hidden in one of these incredible crackers. Don’t worry though, if you think a yacht is too extravagant you can swap it for a more modest speed boat. As the crackers are bespoke any item can be replaced with another and the price adjusted accordingly. (minimum £10,000) One lucky guest will get the key to a top of the range Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe. The Vanquish is the height of design, engineering, technology and craftsmanship offered by Aston Martin.

Another prize is the ‘1 Like No Other’ trip of a lifetime travelling to destinations that are truly unique with no likeness anywhere else in the world. The 10 locations include the Wisteria Tunnel in Japan and the only Ice Igloo hotel. In each location they will be given an exquisite limited edition shirt from luxury shirt maker, 1 Like No Other.

One lucky winner could be taking away a sparkling “Diamants Légers” Cartier necklace.

36 DECEMBER 2017

Cracker Contents & Price • Sunseeker Yacht £3,700,000 • Aston Martin Vanquish Coupe £190,000 • 1 Like No Other Trip £77,500 • Breguet Tradition Watch £19,000 • Cartier Diamond Necklace £18,600 • Graf Von Faber-Castell £6,500

The 18K white gold long necklace is set with 20 diamonds. Also on offer is a stunning Breguet Tradition wristwatch in 18-carat rose gold.

They also could pull out the beautiful pen from Graf Von Faber-Castell. The new limited edition “Pen of the Year” is inspired by Vikings, the design reflects the materials used in the construction of Nordic longboats.

The crackers themselves are created by Simply Crackers and are available in a range of colours to suit your table décor. The current image is representative, as the crackers will be custom designed to fit the buyers requirements.

Cracker prizes are subject to availability and delivery times may vary. Price excludes delivery. In order to have the crackers delivered in time for Christmas Day orders must be placed by 15th December 2017 for UK customers.

A donation of £1,000 will be made to The Prince’s Trust charity should the crackers be purchased.

For more details visit www.veryfirstto.com

OUT & ABOUT

unveils its top 10 Christmas toys for 2017

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he most famous toy store in the world has revealed its highly regarded annual prediction of the big toys for this festive season. INTERACTIVE robots and tech toys are set to dominate your children’s Christmas letters this year, according to Hamleys….

Top of the list is Tyler the playful tiger - a cute little cub which responds to petting and talking in over hundred different ways. Pet his head and his eyes might close, pet him on his muzzle and he moves. The toy is pretty much the robotic alternative to a cat but comes with a hefty price tag of £135. Suitable for age 4+ Also predicted to be a hit amongst younger kids is the Fisher Price Dance & Move Beatbox, selling for £33. The toy will teach toddlers songs and dance moves at the touch of a button. He will introduce baby to letters, colours, numbers and much more.

Suitable for age 2+ Thanks to the imminent release of the latest Star Wars film, the LEGO BB-8 has climbed back to the top, giving children the chance to interact with their favourite robot – also keeping LEGO in the top ten for another year. The robot is available to buy at £85. Suitable for age 10+.

Barbie is making a comeback with her Dream Horse figurine which reacts to touch and features more than 30 realistic reactions. The horse can also nod yes or no when you ask a question, play three different songs and show off with three different dances. The interactive animal alone will cost you £90.

The ever-popular Nerf Gun is back with a £22 Nitro Longshot version, allowing children to design long-distance jumping challenges with the longjump ramp and obstacles. The pack includes blaster, long-jump ramp, two foam cars with plastic wheels, four obstacles, and instructions. Suitable for age 5+.

38 DECEMBER 2017

Also set to be popular is the ultimate villain, Megazord from the Power Ranger’s film, which can be bought as an interactive figurine. The toy has eight features including: expandable wings, cannon and sword, battle and flight sounds, lights in the head and feet for enhanced realism, a light-up “Morphin Grid,” and five individual cockpits for each included ranger figure. Suitable for age 4+ The interactive Luvebella toy is manufactured by Spin Master - the company behind last year’s festive season sell-out, Hatchimals. The doll responds to affection, falls asleep, giggles and talks, and is available to purchase for £100 Hatchimals swept the boards last year and have proven their popularity again as the latest Egg Surprise proves to be a must-have toy of the season.

This mysterious egg literally hatches on its own into an interactive toy. The latest version which cost £75 comes with a pair of twin Hatchimals. Each creature will have its own personality and they can also interact with each other. Kids can raise them from baby to toddler to kid and they’ll learn new things at each stage.

Get A Grip, is a family game which challenges kids and adults to perform a series of increasingly difficult tasks without using their thumbs.First, players wrap their thumbs in the included hand bands so that they can’t use them. Then a player picks a card that will tell them to Draw it, Sculpt it, or Do it - all without the use of these important body parts The game is the cheapest item on the list and it might be a good way to get your kid to drop their iPhones.

Victoria Kay, Head Buyer at Hamleys says: “We’ve seen a lot of tech for tech’s sake in the past few years with app extensions, but now, whether it’s a plush or a more sophisticated LEGO build, they are getting smarter in how kids can personalise and programme them.”

For more information visit www.hamleys.com.

188-196 Regent Street, W1B 5BT

Tyler the Playful Tiger

“Thanks to the imminent release of the latest Star Wars film, the LEGO BB-8 has climbed back to the top”

From top: Hatchimals Egg Surprise Fisher Price Dance And Move Beatbox; LEGO BB-8

OUT & ABOUT

The D Throne S Electric

A luxury toy car built for the mini millionaire in your life Luxury cars often make heads turn when they drive by in their all-elegant gleaming avatars. This though, is hardly ever the case when you see a kid zooming around in a cute little toy car. However, here to make your jaws drop is the D Throne S Electric.

To find out more email contact@dthronefamily.com or visit the website at www.dthronefamily.com or www.joonghochoi.com

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or those of you with a love of luxury vehicles, this is a one in a million chance to make your child have the same tastes as you - and the quality of the craftsmanship is unparalleled considering that it’s intended for use by a child.

The four-wheeled work of art bears all the hallmarks of craftsmanship one might associate with a luxury brand. The super-luxe D Throne S is painstakingly designed and is in all probability the most luxurious toy your child could ever own. The tiny automobile also offers you a perfect reason to bond with you little one, with a space on its rear that easily allows an adult to hop on board. Parents can also activate different modes on the smart controller and turn the D. Throne S into a motorised or non-motorised stroller. Designed by Seoul-based Hyunsoo Choi and Taeno Yoon at Joongho Choi Studio, D Throne is certainly no ordinary car manufacturer – they are currently on their third generation of their electric cars which just seem to be getting better and better with time.

A great attention to detail can also be seen in the exterior and interior design of the car with finishes of exquisite car enamel and hand-made leather seats, four-inch aluminum wheels, side LEDs and working headlights for safety. This model also has been composed by simply dividing its body parts into two sections, which are top and bottom,

40 DECEMBER 2017

using plastic molding techniques. In addition, it is designed to simultaneously configure gold grill parts located in front of the body, and a fender structure attached to each wheel, which maintains a design of a classic car. Concurrently, it has implemented a user-friendly feature that allows users to safely and easily manage and use the car.

The luxe little car can be purchased in black, khaki, and. an off-white colour (complete with shimmering copper accentuations in both models).

If you can afford to pamper your child silly (with no monetary limits whatsoever!), then buying him/ her the luxurious D Throne S is probably the ultimate gift.

The rechargeable battery provides up to 10 hours of driving time, so a family can enjoy outdoor activities while it is available to convert the mode in situations when carrying children in something like a stroller. It has slip-proof breaks to prevent the car slipping. To have these various functions possible, the structures of the design and appearance have been delicately constructed by placing the parts and accessories though the engineering technology during the electronic car development process.

The Korean electric car manufacturer has certainly made it big by going small, and counts amongst its esteemed clients Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Al Maktoum, the Crown Price of Dubai, who placed a customised order blinged out with over 2,000 Swarovski crystals.

OUT & ABOUT

[ SHO P P ING ]

FESTIVE FINDS DECADENT DINING

Star Glass Tray, £16, Sophie Allport www.sophieallport.com

Klevering Anouk Golden Star Plates set of 3, £56.25, Printer & Tailor www.printerandtailor.com

Tracy Christmas Tea Towels Taupe (Pack Of 2), £6, RAGGED ROSE LTD www.raggedrose.com

beautiful blooms Fresh from the fields of Holland, bloomon delivers beautiful bouquets direct to your door. By working directly with growers – eschewing middlemen, lorries, and supermarket stands – bloomon offers the freshest and most seasonal blooms available. Within 36 hours of being cut and hand-wrapped with love, flowers arrive in your home. That means: they last up to 10 days longer than bouquets you’d buy down the street. This festive season, bloomon has created a collection of bouquets inspired by fashion, interior and design trends. We’re upgrading the wreath with rebellious abandon, giving the traditional a twist with muted pastels and zingy greens paired with cool whites. www.bloomon.co.uk

Flower Candlestick, £195, THE SHOP FLOOR PROJECT www.theshopfloorproject.com

IT’S A WRAP! Christmas gifts have never looked more enticing with this collection of personalised festive wrapping. Printed on premium art paper, there are more than 30 designs to choose from and each can be personalised with your loved one’s name. £5 per sheet, £10 for three sheets or £15 for five, www.handmadechristmasco.com

christmas cushions

Robin and Holly Napkins, £44.95, Annabel James www.annabeljames.co.uk

42 DECEMBER 2017

We love these high quality embroidered Christmas Cushion cover in a variety of festive designs, sure to brighten up any room over Chrsitmas. The cushion covers are 43cm or 16 inch square and zipped.

Holly & berry embroidered wreath cushion cover, £8.99, Robin & tree postmark Christmas cushion cover, £7.99, www.easycaretablecloths.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

Bond Street’s Sparkle comes O

n Bond Street, as the festive season approaches, it really does feel like Christmas has arrived. From the flowing lights to the incredible jewellery, Bond Street is a magical place in December. And this was precisely what founder of Berkshire based Jewellers Taylor & Co thought too – and since then they have been on a mission to bring a little bit of Bond Street sparkle to the heart of Berkshire. We caught up with their Founder and Creative Director, Mike Taylor, to find out more.

What gave you the idea to bring Bond Street to Berkshire?

We have been a jewellers based in Crowthorne for over 28 years, and we wanted to bring a luxury, curated jewellery experience together for our local

44 DECEMBER 2017

clientele. We felt that nothing like that existed locally and every time we visited Bond Street, we loved the ambience and jewellery selection, and we thought, ‘we should bring this experience to Berkshire’.

How did you make the transition from a traditional jeweller?

We started with a full rebrand of the business and a boutique refit to bring a more luxurious and accessible environment. We also made some clear rules about the kind of jewellery that we wanted to have in store.

What are your rules about the jewellery you stock?

The first rule is that everything needs to be made in the UK. We never compromise on this which means no cheap imports and no overseas production. While this severely limits the number of designers we work with, it ensures that our customers know that all the jewellery we have in our boutique is of the highest quality and British made, no matter the cost.

Secondly, our fine jewellery ranges are made exclusively by Master Goldsmiths of the highest pedigree, to ensure that if a customer is buying something special, it indeed is the finest that money can buy.

Finally, we source all our silver and designer jewellery from designers with the highest levels of skill, and passion for creativity. These artisans will hail from across the UK and will give a full showcase of the best Britain has to offer; from

More Information For more information visit Taylor and Co, 170 Dukes Ride, Crowthorne RG45 6Ds or www.mastergoldsmiths.co.uk or you can book an appointment on 01344 780212.

Introducing the GinGenieTM

to Berkshire Wales, to Scotland, and from Ireland and across England. We are always on the lookout for new designers to add to our curated ranges.

Tell us about your favourite designers that you stock at the moment We recently added Anuka Jewellery from one of my favourite designers, Francesca Kippax. Anuka’s aesthetic is bold, with angular designs that are very contemporary, modern, feminine and minimalist. It’s all made in her workshop in the Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham. Her designs come in sterling silver, and gold vermeil and are very affordable.

We also love Sheila Fleet OBE, who is based in Orkney in the Shetland Islands. She is renowned for her stunning and vibrant enamel work on silver, which captures the bright blues and turquoises of the sea around the Shetlands. She is one of Scotland’s leading designer-makers of silver jewellery and it’s all handmade in her workshops in Orkney.

Another favourite is Kokkino, which is entirely new to the boutique. Founded in 2003 by designer Mel Ankers, Kokkino uses original finishes on silver to make timeless pieces that are ideal gifts. Ranging from everyday wear jewellery to bold, statement necklaces, her work is very popular with our customers.

One of our favourite Master Goldsmiths is Benney & Co, and in fact, we are their only UK stockist. Benney & Co has three Royal Warrants and has made pieces for Margaret Thatcher, and for both Prince Harry and Prince William. Their work truly is exquisite.

Who is your customer and where to do they come from?

It’s incredible how far and wide our client base is now, as people have embraced our new approach and ranges. We have customers from across the region from Reading to Ascot, Farnborough and Virginia Waters, as well as customers who travel from further afield. They all have one thing in common; they don’t want commoditised jewellery and are looking for something unique and special, no matter the price, and won’t accept anything less than the very best customer service. Many are also coming to us to get their hands on our GinGenie™.

More Information GinGenie’s™ are available instore or via www.gingenie.co.uk

What is a GinGenie™?

It’s a fabulous, sterling silver gin accessory that improves the flavour of your favourite gin drinks! Each is handmade in Devon and the silver not only super chills the drink as it travels up the GinGenie, but it also delivers the drink direct to the soft palette, meaning you can pick up the subtle flavours of the gin. It’s the ideal Christmas present for the gin lover in your life. Plus our market research highlights that 96.4% of the people asked agreed that it makes their gins taste better!

How can people find out more?

You can either come by our boutique in Crowthorne, and we will happily talk you through our designers and help you find the perfect present. You can also call and book a private appointment to talk to the design team about something special. Get in touch and we’ll be happy to assist!

DECEMBER 2017 45

OUT & ABOUT

CLARIDGE’S CHRISTMAS TREE 2017

BY KARL LAGERFELD IS UNVEILED

Claridge’s, London’s legendary Mayfair hotel has unveiled their 2017 Christmas Tree, designed

by Karl Lagerfeld, widely regarded as one of the fashion world’s most influential creative forces.

46 DECEMBER 2017

T

his year’s Claridge’s festive installation is inspired by Lagerfeld’s childhood memories of Christmas with a series of inverted spruce Christmas Trees placed around the hotel lobby. The centrepiece is a sixteen foot high inverted tree with silver gilded roots topped with a multi-facetted mirrored star which reflects rays of magical light across the art deco lobby. Reminiscent of a silver stalactite, the tree is hung with traditional silver lametta decorations, silver butter leather feathers and snowflakes handmade by craftsmen in Germany with tree candles giving a warm, inviting glow. Under the tree sits hand sewn white Icelandic sheepskin rugs to reflect a recent snowfall.

An inverted candle lit tree takes the place of Claridge’s famous central chandelier to add a touch of Christmas chic. The pure white linen cloths than cover the tables under the various trees are symbolic of a Christmas ritual that Lagerfeld’s mother would perform every year.

Commenting on the collaboration Karl Lagerfeld said “Christmas trees are the strongest ‘souvenir’ of my happy childhood.”

The Claridge’s Christmas Tree has long symbolised the start of the festive season in the capital. Drawing visitors and Londoners alike to admire its magnificent design. This is the eighth year that Claridge’s has invited a creative visionary to reinterpret the tree in their own distinctive style.

Claridge’s General Manager Paul Jackson said “We are honoured and delighted that Karl Lagerfeld agreed to design our annual Claridge’s Christmas Tree. We believe this magical take on his childhood memories captures the spirit of the season perfectly and adds a sense of fun and glamour to our lobby.”

“Under the tree sits hand sewn white Icelandic sheepskin rugs to reflect a recent snowfall”

ABOUT CLARIDGE’S In the heart of Mayfair, Claridge’s, part of Maybourne Hotel Group, embodies grand English style, timeless glamour and impeccable personalised service. It is London’s art deco jewel, and home to some of the capital’s finest rooms and suites.

From the creative cuisine of Michelin starred Fera at Claridge’s, to its legendary afternoon tea in the Foyer to vintage champagnes in the Fumoir and cocktails in Claridge’s Bar, all are part of the hotel’s unique splendour and charm.

Claridge’s, The Connaught, The Berkeley Maybourne Hotel Group www.maybourne.com

ABOUT KARL LAGERFELD Fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld is globally renowned for his cutting-edge, aspirational and relevant approach to style. As one of the most celebrated fashion designers of the 21st century, his visionary creativity expands beyond fashion to include illustration, photography, interior design and publishing. In addition to being the creative director of the Chanel and Fendi fashion houses, he is also overseeing the creative direction of his signature brand, KARL LAGERFELD. www.karl.com

OUT & ABOUT

Cobham Sound Studios Who would have thought that a rock and roll venue is tucked away in the leafy streets of affluent Cobham? Don’t worry folks, there is no need for earplugs!

“We have played in bands for years and were fed up going to substandard rehearsal facilities so decided to do our own thing”

C

obham Sound Studios offer both recording and rehearsal facilities in purpose-built buildings set in the wooded gardens of Niall and Hilary Squire’s Cobham home.

“We built the studios fifteen years ago, primarily for our own use,” said Niall. “We have played in bands for years and were fed up going to substandard rehearsal facilities so decided to do our own thing - obviously the most important thing was eliminating noise so our neighbors were happy!

“We found a genius in acoustic engineer Ron Choules, who said that his timber construction would have as close to zero sound leakage. It’s amazing-you can have a band cranked up to eleven, but when standing outside all you can hear are the birds singing!

“Bands that use the studio absolutely love it. It’s

48 DECEMBER 2017

THE DETAILS Cobham Sound Studios can be contacted on 01932 865668. Email info@cobhamsound.com, or visit www.cobhamsound.com to see our facilities, equipment and even hear some sample recordings.

not just the fact that the brilliant acoustic tuning makes everything sounds excellent, it’s also that all the equipment is of the highest quality. From Microphones to Drums and Backline Amps, it’s all top gear,” said Niall. “Also, it’s a perfect setting for those trying to escape the public eye and has proved to be a tranquil, tucked away location within easy reach of London for established bands wanting to rehearse for a tour or create new material.”

Niall is also passionate about nurturing young musical talent. “ I’ve worked with many talented young people and helped them to secure places at the BRIT School, ACM (Academy of Music) BIMM (British & Irish Modern Music Institute) And LIPA (Liverpool Institute of Performing Arts).

It’s fantastic to be part of their journey on the road to becoming fully-fledged performers. We’ve seen them release singles with material recorded here and one of the young bands regularly recording here have topped the National ReverbNation Rock Charts three times this year. We’ve even had a client reach the final of ITV’s ‘Britain’s Got Talent’.”

With Christmas rapidly approaching, Cobham Sound offers some truly unique gift ideas. The Studio Experience Voucher is a perfect present for any budding or gifted musician. It books a half-day experience in the recording studio, with backing tracks provided if required.

Alternatively, a recording of a talented family member singing or playing their chosen instrument could make the perfect thoughtful gift for parents or grandparents to keep forever. Book in your session in December and you can have a CD made ready to gift-wrap!

OUT & ABOUT

NOEL’S FARM SHOP N

Always the best, always fresh!

oel’s Farm Shop is situated at Sutton Green Garden Centre on the main road (A320) between Woking and Guildford.

If you like quality food then you will love Noel’s Farm Shop. It’s all about quality, freshness, local and service.

Nowadays so many people food shop simply out of necessity. A quick online order to Ocado or a dispirited rush down to the local supermarket. Some of us prefer something different. We want fresh local produce which lasts, we want to eat healthily and be inspired with new ingredients and we certainly don’t want processed! Well here it is, Noel’s Farm Shop, it’s on your doorstep and it is all the above and more. There are over 600 different products to choose from, from over 60 different suppliers many of which are small independent producers which specialise in just one or two quality products.

“There are over 600 different products to choose from, from over 60 different suppliers”

So, what’s on offer?

• Quality fresh fruit and vegetables – Always the best, always fresh. All the varieties you know and a fair few you don’t.

Seasonal produce is always grown locally.

• Quality local meat – High quality, free range from local farms, so you know the providence of the meat.

• Pies and pasties – Home-made using free range and organic ingredients.

• Local free-range eggs – Fresh chicken and duck eggs • Local honey – Completely raw, untampered with, new season honey from hives less than 3 miles from the shop.

• Fresh bread daily – Locally baked loaves and rolls, with artisan sourdough, rye and spelt breads on the weekend.

• Wholefoods – An array of predominantly organic, nuts, pulses, beans, dried fruits and ingredients.

Home-made crackers and savoury biscuits.

• Cakes and confectionary – Delicious home-made cakes and treats.

• Cheeses and Delicatessen – Plenty of English and imported cheeses, local farm yoghurt and hams.

• Gluten Free, and Dairy Free – The shop has a large section dedicated to gluten free and dairy free products.

• Vegan – Throughout the shop 50 DECEMBER 2017

is a growing trend of vegan products.

• Groceries – No farm shop would be complete without home-made jams, chutneys and sauces.

• Next growing season Noel will be concentrating on growing seasonal produce on the farm land adjacent to the farm shop. Only organic manure and compost will be used to grow, with no use of pesticides or insecticides. This will enable customers to purchase freshly picked, organically grown home produce. Something that is not available in any supermarket, and the only packaging will be the bag you bring along with you.

This Christmas at Noel’s Farm Shop Each year Noel offers high quality free range bronze turkeys from Kelly Bronze Farm, and from Bramble Farm in West Horsley. They are very competitively priced and can be picked up as late as Christmas Eve. If Turkey is not your thing then why not order locally reared beef, lamb, chicken or game. The Wiltshire cured gammon joints are superb and very popular.

Instead of stressing out and queuing up at the supermarket why not order or simply pick up all your fruit and vegetables for the Christmas festivities. There will be everything you need, and it will all be quality and fresh. Free parking, no hassle.

If you are looking for a special gift you can create your own hamper, with hundreds of foodie items to choose from. Select a hamper, fill it to your budget, then have it wrapped. There are also plenty of individual food gifts and stocking fillers.

Come along and see what you have been missing.

OUT & ABOUT

BACHMANNS’ PRUNE & COGNAC TART WINS BRITISH BAKER CHRISTMAS STARS AWARD 2017 “Our judges loved this alternative take on a Christmas dessert, which comprised a crisp pastry base with a prune and cognac filling that is made six weeks before production”

I

’m sitting here at one of my favourite foodie haunts: Bachmanns Patisserie of Weybridge.

Gazing at the extensive counters filled with the most gorgeous chocolates, gateaux and pastries- not to mention a host of Christmas specialities from stolen to the cutest individual Christmas pudding truffles- and deliberating on what to choose while nursing a cup of coffee, is always a great treat.

The Weybridge shop is the second site run by Chris Bachmann and his talented team of pastry chefs, and has just celebrated its 5th anniversary.

“Time passes so quickly” says Chris, “I can’t quite believe we have been in Weybridge for 5 years. We also just celebrated our 28th anniversary of the original Thames Ditton store started by my Mum and Dad, so I guess we must be doing something right!”

They certainly are as over the years the business has won numerous national awards, but recent months has been particularly successful.

“We were part of a team of three who walked away with the gold medal in the recent International competition held in Azerbaijan to find the worlds best jams. I was particularly pleased as the raspberry and redcurrant jam we entered is actually my Grandmas’s recipe. Also, one of my chefs just represented the UK in the International Festival du Pain in Tunisia, and again won Gold- it was very satisfying to beat the French team!”

“Best of all, we have been crowned the Best

52 DECEMBER 2017

Craft Bakery Business in the country,” explains Chris, “which was a great accolade, as it really reflects the quality of both goods and the level of service across the whole business, and is testament to my entire team, whether they are in the kitchens or front of house.”

Lastly, our Prune & Cognac Tart has been selected as the best in the British Baker Christmas Stars Awards ‘Christmas Cakes, Pastries & Tarts’ category.

On announcing the winner, Vince Bamford, Editor of British Baker said: “Our judges loved this alternative take on a Christmas dessert, which comprised a crisp pastry base with a prune and cognac filling that is made six weeks before production.” The judges also praised the Prune & Cognac Tart’s richness of flavour, which ensured the product really stood out from the competition.

Commenting on winning the award, Chris Bachmann says: “Christmas is such a special time for us at Bachmanns and we pride ourselves on the excellent quality of our seasonal specialities, including our Prune & Cognac Tart which has long been a firm favourite with our customers. Being selected as the best by the expert judging panel at British Baker underlines its superb quality and exceptional taste – a real Christmas star.”

So- here’s my top tip for Christmas- pop over to Bachmanns and see what all the fuss is about. Go on- you know you’re worth it!

THE DETAILS 32 Church Street, Weybridge KT13 8DX 01932 820247 6 Criterion Buildings, Portsmouth Road, Thames Ditton KT7 0SS 0208 398 1988 www.bachmanns.co.uk

OUT & ABOUT

A Festive afternoon at Albury Vineyard Sunday 10th December

T

he Godalming Community Gospel Choir, finalists at the BBC Gospel Choir of the Year, are returning to Albury Vineyard on Sunday 10th December for a festive afternoon of wine tasting, mince pies and carols. Visitors to the vineyard can enjoy samples of Albury’s award-winning sparkling wines whilst listening to a medley of performances from the choir, a unique group of singers from all walks of life with a passion for gospel music, and the afternoon promises Christmas joy for all ages.

Albury, a small family run vineyard just outside of Guildford, produces organic wines of the highest quality and is best known locally for its Silent Pool rosé which was served on board the Royal Barge to celebrate the Queen’s jubilee in 2012.

Their Albury Estate sparkling wines have since won numerous gold and silver awards in international competitions and are now served at some of the country’s best restaurants.

Also on offer will be tastings of Albury’s new release Duke’s Reserve Brandy, made from Albury wine and distilled by their neighbours at the Silent Pool Distillery. Only 160 bottles have been made of this small batch spirit, named after the Duke of Northumberland who owns the land that the vineyard sits on. Wine lovers can also taste a new ‘guest wine’ from a nearby vineyard, Villa Elena.

Again this limited release is in short supply, as only 260 bottles were made from the first tiny vintage of this young vineyard last year.

54 DECEMBER 2017

Everyone is welcome at the vineyard for Albury’s relaxed Christmas tasting event, regardless of how much or little you know about wine. Children can enjoy the vineyard toy trail (weather permitting!) and don’t worry if you have muddy boots from walking around the Silent Pool, the vineyard aren’t worried about that either! Tickets are £5 per adult which includes four tastings, and children are free.

All the wines are available to buy on the day but the glass and bottle, and they make lovely Christmas gifts too!

Booking via www.alburyvineyard.com is essential as space is limited.

OUT & ABOUT

Why choose a move to a Care Home?

A

ccording to recent research, more than half of over-75s are living alone, with around 5 million of these saying that the television is their main source of company.

Alarmingly, evidence suggests that extreme loneliness can even prove fatal, with the risk of early death increasing by 14%, as a result of poorer diets, worse lifestyle choices (ie alcohol or tobacco) and less exercise than those who have a network of friends or family. Perhaps less surprisingly it seems that the lonely are also more likely to suffer from mental health problems.

Many older people won’t entertain the idea of moving into a care home, but not all care homes are the same, you will soon realise once inside a home whether your loved one would like it, feel at home.

Speak to staff, chat to residents and meet the teams who head each department.

Go back again and stay for tea or lunch.

One step inside Ascot Grange and you will think you are in a luxury hotel. Loneliness is a never a problem here – there is a huge range of varied entertainment to choose from seven days a week, with opportunities to make many new friends. Our residents can enjoy either our restaurant dining or our bistro for a more casual dining experience, together with lounges, Signature café, a library, hair salon and spa.

There are studio and one bedroom apartments, for singles or couples, each having its own lounge, wet room and kitchenette area, all tastefully decorated throughout.

In order to help prospective residents and their families evaluate the affordability of various care options, Signature works with a specialist team of highly experienced Independent Financial Advisors, all who are members of SOLLA and thus have specific knowledge and expertise in the care fees marketplace.

Our team can help you understand the options 56 DECEMBER 2017

available to you and in most instances there’s no obligation or fees for their advice. They have given many families and residents peace of mind over the years and are available to meet you at one of our homes or visit you in yours.

Moving to Ascot Grange is not about moving to a care home, it’s simply moving home, allowing you the freedom and flexibility to live your life the way you want within a spacious, comfortable environment that offers companionship and care but also privacy when you want it.

To arrange an informal chat and a guided tour of our facilities, please call Robin on 01344 798351 who will be happy to guide you every step of the way.

Visit www.signature-care-homes.co.uk

Furniture • Accessories • Lighting • Outdoor Living • Restoration Showroom now live on GOOGLE MAPS THURSDAY LATE NIGHT SHOPPING from 30th November to Christmas

CHRISTMAS STOCK NOW AVAILABLE Incorporating Reeves Restorations Restoration and Bespoke Furniture Call us on: 01483 203838 / 07774 729 325 60 Station Road, Gomshall, Guildford, Surrey, GU5 9NP Mon-Fri 09:30-17:00, Sat: 10:00-17:00, Sun 11:00-17:00

Email: coachhousesurrey@gmail.com www.coachhousesurrey.co.uk @coach_house_surrey @CHSurrey facebook.com/coachhousesurrey

fashion, HEALTH

& beauty

– Fashion, health and beauty news to keep you looking and feeling your best – i ma g e : PA RT Y S E A SON B E A UT Y SURVIVA L GUID E

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

“Scientific studies have shown that HA fillers can stimulate the formation of heathy skin tissue and new collagen”

Dermal Fillers: Friend or Foe?

Cosmetic specialist, Dr Peter Forrester answers some questions and clears up some misunderstandings about dermal filers.

What are dermal fillers?

Are dermal fillers safe?

The term Dermal Filler refers to a group of injectable clear gels designed to lift and plump skin. They are commonly based on hyaluronic acid (HA). Hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in many body tissues including the skin where it has important functions maintaining structure and hydration. HA binds to water in the skin, locking in moisture. As we get older the amount of hyaluronic acid in skin gradually diminishes which in part is responsible for many of the appearances of skin ageing.

Restylane was the first HA filler and has been in use for over 20 years. Since introduction HA filers have been used tens of millions of times. Hence, we now know a great deal about both their benefits and safety.

Because the HA in fillers is very similar to the HA that exits naturally under the skin they are very well tolerated with a minimal chance of allergic reactions.

Infrequently inflammatory reactions can occur resulting areas of swelling or firmness. These usually settle without treatment but can be resolved by the use of hyaluronidase, an enzyme that dissolves HA. It should be stressed that in the right hands dermal fillers are very safe. They should only be used by properly qualified and experienced healthcare professionals.

Will it be obvious that I have had a filler treatment or will I look pumped up?

Images in the media of hugely plumped lips and cheeks and the so-called trout-pout have given HA dermal fillers an undeservedly bad reputation. Correctly used they will result in a natural and rejuvenating appearance with no risk of an over-treated look. The paradox of filler treatments is this, when they are obviously over-done everybody notices but when properly used the results are subtle. People see the ‘bad’ ones but don’t notice the ‘good’ ones – this leads to a belief that all filler treatments will produce a bad result.

What areas can be treated with fillers?

Fillers can be used to: • replace lost volume in cheeks and lips • reduce deep and fine surface lines including smokers lines around the mouth • lift the jowls • stimulate and hydrate the skin

How long do HA fillers last?

Injected hyaluronic acid is slowly broken down in the body. The beneficial effects of a treatment can be expected to last for up to 12 months. However, this will depend on a number of factors including patient age, area treated, quantity of filler injected, skin quality, general health and lifestyle including smoking. It was once believed that once all the hyaluronic acid had been broken down it would have no further benefit. However scientific studies have shown that HA fillers can stimulate the formation of heathy skin tissue and new collagen.

This boost to the body’s own collagen may help to explain why smaller volumes of filler are often required during top up treatments and why some people seem to derive significant benefit for 18 months or longer.

Dr. Peter Forrester and Ms. Helen McEvoy offer: Non Surgical Treatments • Anti-wrinkle Injections - reduce frown lines and crow’s feet.

• Dermal Fillers - smooth deeper lines and furrows as well as returning lost volume to the face.

• Thread Lift - minimally invasive procedure where surgical threads are used to lift and support cheeks, jowls and neck.

• Facial Peels - helps to return a healthy glow to dull tired skin.

Peels also reduce fine lines, wrinkles uneven skin tone, acne and scarring.

• Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) - natural anti-ageing skin rejuvenation treatment using small amounts of recipient’s

Dr Peter Forrester and Ms Helen McEvoy, 6 Esher Park Avenue, Esher, KT10 9NP | Tel: 01372 890890 60 DECEMBER 2017

Introducing Jennifer Luyt Dr. Peter Forrester MBBS FRCA

With over 20 years experience in non surgical cosmetic medicine, Peter specialises in minimally invasive facial anti ageing treatments.

Dr Peter Forrester & Ms Helen McEvoy welcome Jennifer Luyt, an exciting new addition to their team in Esher Jennifer brings to us 40 years experience in the high end beauty therapy industry and, has practiced as a Senior Medical Aesthetician for the last 11 years.

blood to improve the skin’s texture and to reduce lines and wrinkles.

• Facial Thread Veins – we remove thread veins affecting the nose cheeks and all area of the face.

• Hyperhidrosis – an effective treatment for excessive underarm sweating • INTRAcel – uses radio frequency and micro needling to improve the tone and texture of the skin. It also tightens to reduce sagging, wrinkles and fine lines.

INTRAcel helps to improve stretch marks and scarring.

• Advanced skin care - ZO range of concentrated formulas delivers rapid results. A unique skincare regime will be formulated by Dr. Peter Forrester to ensure the best possible outcome.

Ms. Helen McEvoy MSc MA MBBChir FRCS (Plast)

Helen is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon based at Guy’s and St. Thomas’ hospital and she consults privately from her rooms in Esher.

enquiries@cosdocs.co.uk | www.cosdocs.co.uk

Having developed a vast depth of treatment based knowledge, her natural empathy and integrity are a fabulous asset to our clinic.

Her treatments include: • INTRAcel - radio frequency micro-needling for improving facial tone & texture • Intense Pulsed Light IPL - for pigmentation, rejuvenation and rosacea • Facial Thread Veins • Facial Peels • Milia & skin tags • Advanced skincare 6 Esher Park Avenue, Esher, KT10 9NP Tel: 01372 890 890 enquiries@cosdocs.co.uk

Discreetly situated just off the High Street www.cosdocs.co.uk

DECEMBER 2017 61

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

[NEWS]

BEAUTY & FASHION NAUTICAL GIFTS With Christmas fast approaching, we handpicked a few beautiful gifts for the nautical and coastal enthusiast www.thenauticalcompany.com

Breton Sweater, Navy Blue, £95

KEEPING TIME Created by the award winning UK Designer Kirsty Whyte and built to last using a 5-Jewel Swiss Made Ronda movement and soft italian dark walnut brown leather, the sophisticated rose gold fte3003 watch merges the classic detailing of vintage watches with a modern minimalist finish.

Small Rose Gold & Brown Watch, £155, Freedom To Exist www.freedomtoexist.com

Classic Captain hat, in wool, £39

TOTALLY TROPICAL

STOCKING FILLER

Handmade in Jaipur, India, these bird of paradise viscose scarves have been lovingly made using traditional techniques. £16.99, www.iansnow.com

Your special someone will love this beautiful handcrafted resin and silver ring – home to their very own penguin. £240, www.madebyhandonline.com

THE BIRDS Featuring the iconic work from John James Audubon’s Birds of America, the Birds collection takes the detailed life-sized watercolours and brings the artwork to life on varying canvases including ceramics, cushions and incredible wall hangings. Each of the fascinating 19th-century illustrations took Audubon around sixty hours to complete and the historic book features over four hundred breeds, some of which are now extinct. www.magpieline.com/shop 62 DECEMBER 2017

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

PARTY SEASON BEAUTY

We asked the experts what we can do to prevent total complexion meltdown in the run-up to Christmas.

WORDS: Katie Wright

W

ith fizz flowing, cheesy tunes blaring and mince pies aplenty, there’s a lot of indulgent fun to be had at the seasonal shindigs. But if you’re not careful, by December 25, your face will end up looking like a turkey that’s been left in the oven too long.

“Christmas parties mean a lot of alcohol, very little sleep, and possibly smoking as well,” explains Dr Penelope Tympanidis, consultant dermatologist and owner of the Dermaperfect Clinic. “And as a result of wearing too much make-up (or from non-meticulous make-up removal) the results can mean puffy eyes, dark circles, dull looking skin, dehydration and spots.”

But help is at hand. We asked a gang of gurus known as the Harley Street Emporium Skintellectuals for their top tips on how to protect your complexion against the ravages of party season. Here’s what they had to say...

64 DECEMBER 2017

Try a raw egg face mask To brighten dull skin, whip up a quick home-made face mask, says Dr Tympanidis. “Beat a whole egg and apply it to all areas of your face and leave ‘til it dries. Remove it with olive or almond oil.” Egg whites contain albumin, a protein which is great for tightening pores and helping control oil production, and the yolks contain proteins and fatty acids that can help moisturise your skin.

Schedule a few early nights “Try and catch up on sleep in between the late nights,” says Dr Adam Friedmann from the Harley Street Dermatology Clinic. Why? “At night, the skin relaxes. It’s not under any stress, so can recuperate after a hard day. Your skin cells go into regeneration mode, replacing damaged or dead cells with new ones. When sleep is reduced, due to lots of late nights, so is the body’s ability to carry out these functions. A bare minimum of six to seven hours but ideally nearer to eight hours - would suit.”

Pop on a couple of eye masks For Dr Anjali Mahto, Consultant Dermatologist at Skin55, a hydrating eye mask is a must, but she says there are some ingredients you should look

“Try and catch up on sleep in between the late nights”

SURVIVAL GUIDE out for to make sure they’re effective. “Eye masks are a good, quick, temporary fix for puffiness and dark circles, which can occur after lots of late nights. They are usually gel-like treatments, which are formulated with hydrating and plumping ingredients, such as hyaluronic acid, vitamin C, caffeine and colloidal gold. Must-have ingredients to look out for in eye creams include hyaluronic acid, ceramides, retinol, neuropeptides and vitamins C and E.” Skin Republic Brightening Eye Masks, £4.99 for three pairs, LookFantastic

Make a camomile compress A cheaper alternative for refreshing puffy eyes is a camomile tea bag compress, which Dr Tympanidis says is “great for reducing swelling and inflammation”. Make yourself a pot of this soothing tea and once the tea bags have cooled, squeeze the excess liquid out and spend a good ten minutes or so relaxing with them on your eyes.

Don’t forget your 5-a-day “It’s tempting to over indulge during the festive season, but try to remember to eat well in between the excess,” says Dr Friedmann. “It’s important to eat a healthy and balanced diet to maintain all one’s minerals and natural oils. Eating lots of vegetables and salads will soak up the free radicals and help the look and feel of your skin.”

De-stress not distress Throwing a party yourself ? All that planning and prep can send your stress levels soaring. “It’s a known fact that stress and exhaustion lower the immune system and can make skin worse,” explains Dr Friedmann. “So, try and take some time out for yourself and do something you know helps you relax.” Dr Rupert Critchley, founder of Viva Skin Clinics, adds: “Feeling stressed or having breakouts?

Meditation and mindfulness both have a positive impact on the stresses and strains of the Christmas period. They reduce the bodies circulating stress hormones, such as cortisol, which can trigger breakouts.”

Always remove your make-up thoroughly

a few seconds, to help dissolve the product, before wiping it away.”

Eucerin DermoPurifyer Miccellar Water, £9.50, Boots

Go easy on the booze “Excess alcohol consumption can cause blood vessel dilatation, which can make the face look quite red. This is because alcohol dilates the blood vessels and increases the cardiac output, so that everything gets redder,” says Dr Friedmann. “Anyone who already has skin disease (such as dermatitis or psoriasis) will often notice it worsening.” So on the nights you haven’t got a party in the diary, stay off the sauce and quaff plenty of water or herbal teas to rehydrate.

Murad City Skin SPF 50, £45, available from Murad

Up your antioxidants Give your seasonal tipple a virtuous twist with an antioxidant-rich ingredient. “Add a teaspoon of organic matcha green tea powder to your festive gin and tonic,” Dr Critchley suggests. “It takes mere seconds, but it will give you a potent antioxidant boost, which protects the skin from free radicals.”

Watch your water intake “Try and switch over to water or a soft drink in between alcoholic beverages, and pace yourself, as alcohol can cause dehydration of the skin and lead to facial bloating,” Dr Critchley recommends.

Dr Tympanidis adds: “As well as drinking lots of water, have some citrus juices to help keep your antioxidant levels up. The water will help keep your skin looking plumper, while the vitamins in the juice will help combat the damage caused by free radicals that can age our skin.”

Skin Republic Brightening Eye Masks, £4.99 for 3 pairs, available from LookFantastic Eucerin DermoPurifyer Miccellar Water, £9.50, available from Boots

Slap on the sunscreen “Don’t forget your sunscreen - even if it is cold and grey outside,” insists Dr Mahto. “Sunscreen isn’t just for the summer and should be worn throughout the year, as there is still damaging ultraviolet radiation around. Sunscreen should be offering protection against UVA and UVB, and at least SPF 15. Regular sunscreen use will help prevent against skin cancer and premature ageing.”

Murad City Skin SPF 50, £45

It sounds obvious, but it’s not just the make-up residue that causes problems, according to Dr Friedmann: “If you haven’t removed your make-up properly, you tend to be heavier handed to try and remove stubborn make-up that’s been on the face a while. This firm wiping action can irritate the skin and encourage flare-ups,” he says.

“The very act of rubbing will usually cause blood vessels to dilate, causing redness. The under-eye area especially is very delicate, so you want to avoid harsh rubbing of this area. When removing mascara and eye make-up, it’s best to gently place a cotton ball with remover over your lid and hold it there for DECEMBER 2017 65

FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

AWARD WINNING LONDON HEALTH AND BEAUTY BRAND OPENS IN GUILDFORD

THE DETAILS

M

argaret Dabbs, the eponymous London based health and beauty brand, has chosen Guildford as the location for its only Clinic in the South East of England outside of the capital.

The award winning brand is globally recognised as a specialist in results driven feet and hand products, as well as outstanding medical foot treatments and pedicures and manicures for both men and women.

The new Guildford Clinic opened in October 2017 and is located in the charming, cobbled Chapel Street just off Guildford’s renowned High Street. It will join the company’s existing portfolio of clinics in prestigious locations such as Liberty Regent Street, Marylebone, Notting Hill, Westminster, Cheltenham, Cheshire, Harrogate, Doha and Dubai.

The Margaret Dabbs London Clinic in Chapel Street hosts a retail area for display of the company’s extensive own brand Fabulous Hands and Feet range - many of which contain the key ingredient of Emu Oil, a completely natural product for which Margaret Dabbs has become so wellknown - as well as private rooms on the first floor where treatments such as the signature Medical Pedicure are performed. This iconic treatment is a complete overhaul of the feet by a qualified podiatrist, yielding long lasting results and gorgeous heathy feet, leaving clients feeling as though they are walking on air. For those with mobility problems

66 DECEMBER 2017

there is an accessible treatment room on the ground floor.

The air of pampering and luxury is reinforced and rounded off by the Margaret Dabbs London Nail Spa where manicures and pedicures are performed to the highest standards by professionally trained nail technicians, fusing health with beauty and returning nails to optimum condition with treatment enriched nail polish colours which are exclusive to Margaret Dabbs.

The Margaret Dabbs London Foot Clinic and Nail Spa is located at 23a, Chapel Street, Guildford, Surrey GU1 3UL. More information about Margaret Dabbs London, its treatments and products can be gained by visiting www.margaretdabbs.co.uk.

Opening Times: 9.00am-6.30pm (Mon-Sat); 11am-5pm (Sun)

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FASHION, HEALTH & BEAUTY

Your Time to Sparkle Make an entrance this Christmas with Hair and Beauty from Academy Salons

Above images: Hair - Errol Douglas MBE for Balmain Paris Hair Couture; Photography - Jack Eames

HAIR ENVY Treat yourself to a new hair style, cut, colour or added volume.

BODY CONFIDENCE Take away the stress of the party season with some pampering, a full body massage and finish with a spray tan, manicure and pedicure.

TREASURE YOUR FACE Shaped brows and added lashes means eye opening and instant de-ageing - also enjoy a full makeup session for that special evening.

All the Academy Salons are committed to helping you look and feel your very best for the Festive Season. We believe haircare is an essential part of a tip-top lifestyle. To help us achieve the most beautiful and up to date results we use the best products available in the industry today. Products include Balmain Paris Hair Couture Styling and Care, Alterna, Living Proof, Paul Mitchell and Dermalogica. We also offer the very best added hair service in the area with Balmain Paris Hair Couture, and are currently the holder of Southern UK Extensionist of the Year. We are also delighted to announce our four new on-trend colours Smokey Grey, Silver Grey, Slate Blue and Grey Lavender.

To ensure the outcome of our services achieve optimal satisfaction - a complimentary, thorough consultation to discuss each client’s individual needs and desires is conducted with every appointment. We then strive to exceed our client’s expectations.

Academy for all your Hair and Beauty needs.

• Cut • Colour • Blow Drying • Added hair for length • Added hair for volume • Colour without chemicals • Deep conditioning

treatments • Hair Ups • Bridal Service • Tanning • Nails • Facials • Massage • Waxing

THE DETAILS

10 The Green, Hersham, Surrey KT12 4HL T: 01932 252 464 42 High Street, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3EB T: 01932 864 929 105 Hare Lane, Claygate, Surrey KT10 0QX T: 01372 462 724 91 High Street, Esher, Surrey KT10 9QA T: 01372 466 400 81 Queens Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 9UQ T: 01932 852289 www.academysalons.com www.balmainhair.com Academy Salons - finalists for the British Hairdressing Business Awards 2016.

Visit any of our 5 Academy Salons for the ultimate gift choice.

68 DECEMBER 2017

Visit Blue Velvet Shoes at 174 Kings Road, SW3 4UP or call 020 7376 7442 buy online www.bluevelvetshoes.com

OUTDOOR LIVING

HOME &

PROPERTY

– A collection of Surrey and Berkshire’s finest house and garden companies, plus stunning homes for sale in the area – I M AG E : t u r g o n fl o o r i n g

H OME & PROPERTY

[NEWS]

INTERIORS TILE OF THE YEAR Original Style UK is proud to present the Tile of the Year 2018 - Heath by the Winchester Tile Company. Heath is a shade drawn from nature with deep, warm tones that elicit a real sense of indulgence. This lilac hue paired with the artisanal vibe of the Winchester Tile Company’s Residence collection is brilliantly versatile with a spirit of Avant-garde. www.originalstyle.com

putting on the ritz The Art Deco movement – characterised by geometric designs, gold accents, and ornate silhouettes – is a trend that has shown no signs of slowing down. Living It Up takes inspiration from the era in their new range of Milano accent chairs. Art Deco appeal is given a thoroughly 2017 spin, by putting velvet and brass centre-stage. The first thing you’ll notice about the Milano is its striking geometric frame, made of stainless steel coated in brass, this year’s hottest metal.

It’s highly stylized, sleek and luxurious frame is accompanied by plush navy or pink velvet upholstery and a beautiful buttoned back. The chair is made even more desirable through the addition of a high-density foam seat, for the utmost comfort. As an accent piece, Milano Chair is perfect for adding ‘ritz’ to otherwise neutral interiors, or teaming with a mid-century sofa for full on retro appeal. Its clean lines, simplicity, geometrics and sharp angles will never fail to impress, making it the ideal focal point for a pared-back living space. £599, www.livingitup.co.uk

OUTDOORS IN

urban interiors

Bring the outdoors in and create a botanical theme in your living room with this stylish range of pendant lights from Escapology Inspired by the rattan frames of vintage Lloyd Loom furniture, this range of Vincent Shephard pendant lights are perfect for adding a contemporary Scandinavian twist to your home. £268, www.escapology home.com

Urban interior design stems from the modern designer lofts in the major cities. Taking cues from its cosmopolitan environment, urban modern is a fusion of various opposing and complementary traits.

Minimalist modern, glamorous chic, mid-century inspired, and edgy experimental designs all collide in a distinctively 21stcentury setting.

Nabila Floor Lamp, £649, www.urbanavenue.co.uk

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cottage chic

This new Hemmingway range of reclaimed wooden furniture is ideal – with a resurgence of country style furnishings being more popular than ever it’s right on trend. Interior designers are increasingly turning to exposed materials and matt finishes to create chic and contemporary designs. By incorporating bold, simplistic shapes with raw materials My Furniture have created this new Hemmingway collection. www.my-furniture.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

IMPROVING, RATHER THAN MOVING STILL THE TREND

A visit to your local council’s planning portal will highlight the significant numbers of planning applications from home owners seeking to extend their homes rather than fork out the exorbitant costs of moving house

W

hether it is a loft extension, kitchen extension, conservatory extension or double extension, the desire to create affordable additional living space that can be used 24/7 is evident from the huge numbers of planning applications and the increase in the numbers of property owners (particularly in the last two to three years) who are having new orangeries or conservatories designed to integrate with their existing dwelling. These structures can, if designed appropriately within the bounds set by each local authority, be built without the need for Building Regulation Approval or the need for planning permission, if the home owners have sufficient Permitted Development Rights intact.

That said most new structures with solid roofs 74 DECEMBER 2017

are very likely to need both planning permission and to comply with the Building Regulations, so ensure you get professional advice and talk to your local council before embarking on any development or placing an order.

Previous research published by the Halifax Building Society showed that almost 20% of those questioned desire to move into a UK property that requires no home improvements. If this is still true to this day, it means a staggering one in five of the population would prefer to buy a house that needs nothing doing to it, which if they can afford to throw money away like that OK, but not so sensible

“Most new structures with solid roofs are very likely to need both planning permission and to comply with the Building Regulations”

a move for hard working middle England who tend to work more hand to mouth.

Buying a “ready made” home is often very expensive option, as one either pays a premium to the property developer who built or renovated the property, or alternatively a handsome profit to the home owner who did up the property in order to gain a substantial return on a relatively modest investment in risk/reward terms.

Consequently, is it not far more sensible financially for anyone considering buying a house to instead actually be the property owner who carries out the home improvements, thereby being the ones to benefit from any subsequent increase in property value?

Independent double glazing manufacturers and installers Hazlemere Windows have seen an increasing number of property owners enquiring about replacement double glazed windows and doors for their extension and/or loft conversion.

In addition, growing families are looking into the feasibility of adding a conservatory onto their house to provide much needed extra high quality living space, be it a kitchen/diner, gym, home office, play room, dining room, extra or enlarged living room.

Building a conservatory can be more aesthetically pleasing than a full blown brick built extension with a tiled or flat roof. Despite the changes to the Building Regulations that came into effect back on 1st October 2010, and the new legal requirement that all UK property owners (replacing any existing windows and/or doors, or indeed building an extension) must now fit compliant higher performing thermally efficient fenestration products, it is still easier and less costly to obtain the necessary permissions to build a conservatory.

Also a UPVC or aluminium double glazed conservatory is much less expensive to build and

“Building a conservatory can be more aesthetically pleasing than a full blown brick built extension”

available for home owners to utilise as additional living space a lot sooner than an actual extension with a tiled or flat roof that nearly always requires both time consuming planning permission and Building Regulatory Approval, plus signing off by a Building Control Officer from your local planning department when finished.

That said, having an extension built that matches in, loft conversion and/or conservatory will add value to any home; whilst at the same time provide invaluable extra living space. These types of home improvement options done professionally to a high standard are far less costly than the massive expense of moving house, especially when you take into account legal fees, removal costs or van hire, surveyors costs, estate agency fees (all of which attract 20% VAT), mortgage or loan set up charges, and of course stamp duty (which collectively can amount to tens of thousands of pounds). Is it any wonder that many UK property owners prefer to improve rather than move.

To find out what the potential home improvement options and budget costs are for your particular property from one of Hazlemere’s experienced experts, visit their showrooms in Welwyn Garden City in Herts or High Wycombe in Bucks, both open 7 days a week or call 01344 989938 or visit www.hazlemere.co.uk

DECEMBER 2017 75

FASHION, H OME & PROPERTY HEALTH & BEAUTY

The perfect COLLABORATion

R

ead by millions every week, and frequently on TV and Radio, home guru Alison Cork has built up a formidable reputation as a trusted homes and interiors expert, with an unfailing eye for quality and value. Her latest venture with Victorian Plumbing, the largest online bathroom retailer in the UK, explores the premise of delivering unique style curated around three key styles. Catering to everyone’s design tastes from sinks, bathtubs, taps, tiles, mirrors, radiators, rugs, basins and valves.

The Scandi-Retro range (pictured above) encompasses both the natural and simple influence of European decor with that everlasting retro look.

It creates a very simple, easy to achieve look which relies on artisan-style finishes and interesting details.

Across the Scandi range, wood, leather and ceramics are used to provide a natural and minimal look.

Alison comments ‘I’m a huge fan of retro and the pared back style of the Scandinavians. Somehow it manages to combine the best of the past with a crisp modern edge to it - simple but interesting, with a focus on natural materials such as wood, leather and ceramics.’

The gorgeous Boutique Chic range draws inspiration from the worlds chic hotel bathrooms.

Influenced by Alison’s travels, it combines fine style with the comfort of luxury spas and hotels; allowing you to create the luxurious feel in your own home.

‘As a frequent traveller, I have come to appreciate a well-designed and luxurious hotel bathroom. Nothing can make you feel more instantly comfortable and ‘at home’ than an invigorating shower or a big cosseting bubble bath, in a clean, sleek room.’ Alison adds. ‘My

76 DECEMBER 2017

Boutique bathroom is designed to bring all of that chic decadence into your own home, a room of beautiful simple shapes, calming neutral colours, tactile natural materials and a touch of Zen. All you have to do is wrap yourself in a huge, soft, cotton bathrobe…and relax into your very own home spa.’

The Heritage Elegance range is for those who admire timeless, traditional design. Everyone has ‘their style’ and for Alison, it’s the elegance of classical styling. At the heart of Heritage Elegance is a magnificent freestanding bath which oozes comfort, opulence and style. Alison explains ‘Heritage Elegance is about period drama and a dash of glamour, about taking time to pamper yourself in the glory of days gone by. After all, an Englishman’s home is always his castle and your bathroom should be your ultimate haven.’ www.victorianplumbing.co.uk

“The gorgeous Boutique Chic range draws inspiration from the worlds chic hotel bathrooms”

Passion for Luxury

The Finest World Class Interior Design Service

T: 01992 788377 | E: info@passionforluxury.co.uk | W: www.passionforluxury.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

Executive Home Office Design

T

he essence of an executive home office is inspirational space, which combines work with pleasure. Productivity and function matter but so does your enjoyment of a high quality environment.

Quality and elegance are personal concepts, depending on the art, colour and spirit of place we each enjoy. We would still recognise excellence in the choice of another.

Morgan Stewart Interiors design and build executive home offices, across the UK and beyond to embody this feeling. Creating naturally productive spaces, which are a pleasure to enter.

Balancing Key Elements As with a commercial office, we want to understand how you use your home office. Our designers consider your workflow, the items you like to have at your fingertips, IT and communication requirements.

This is not a reason to sacrifice function for form, or reduce light and space. The basis of good design is to resolve functionality needs with ideas led by your vision for your personal space.

Colours you favour, or materials you enjoy around you are primary factors. Subtle additions which make you feel at home should be included, along with how your office fits into your property.

You may have a substantial, separate space available, or wish to blend a smaller home office into the overall ambience you enjoy. Privacy and a devoted workspace can be achieved with either.

Furnishing Your Home Office An executive home office should feel like a place you want to work and may need to look as professional as you do. If you meet clients, colleagues, or contractors at home.

Comfortable seating arrangements are important for this need and for you. A fine office chair is one of the shrewdest investments you can make, for productivity and for your long term health.

If you need shelving, or storage this should blend subtly into the design, rather than being in the way. Traffic flow apart, every ancillary furnishing item is there to serve you, not the other way around.

The centrepiece of your space may well be 78 DECEMBER 2017

an executive desk. Carefully chosen to meet design needs and to match the way you work, the methodology you employ for paperwork, or multiple screens.

Morgan Stewart & Personal Service Making an office at work feel individual can matter, far more so for your office at home. Our designers work closely with you to ensure, your personality and taste are clearly reflected.

From warm tones you love, to flooring of your choice, to featuring artistic pieces, the office we build will be yours. Our job simply to make your wishes reality.

Every executive home office we design, shares a principle. They are unique because you are, your approach to work, your need to merge work with an individual home.

Morgan Stewart Interiors design staff are highly experienced, they are happy to offer advice and innovative solutions. Their task still always begins with listening to you, the home office you want is personal.

Please contact Andrew or Stewart for a coffee and a chat. www.morganstewartinteriors.co.uk

“Making an office at work feel individual can matter, far more so for your office at home. Our designers work closely with you to ensure, your personality and taste are clearly reflected”

H OME & PROPERTY

THINKINNG ABOUT WOOD FLOORING?

TALK TO TURGON

I

f you’re thinking about buying and installing a wooden floor in the new year, you’re probably about to embark upon a journey that will see you in the Priory Clinic by the time you’ve finally made a decision. The choice isn’t just huge, its mind bogglingly humongous. No longer are we happy with a choice of planks in 10 different widths and 400 different colours, we now want designer finishes in metallic paints, floor designs in Rubik cube formation and, wood species that can only be found in the most remote parts of Zorgasmanistan.

Exactly. But wood is a fascinating natural product that we are falling in love with all over again. A study commissioned by ‘Planet Ark’ says that ‘’being surrounded by wood at home, work or school has positive effects on the body, the brain and the environment and can even shorten hospital stays through reduced recovery times” Er, well, I’m a wood lover and that’s perhaps a little far fetched, but there is no doubt that wood brings a certain kind of peace to a home, unless of course you have a large dog that resembles Scooby Doo, in which case he’ll probably smash the place to pieces. Not much fun for dogs, but hellishly easy to keep clean.

And if you really want to talk wood, what about

80 DECEMBER 2017

the Kizhi Pogost Church, the worlds tallest entirely wooden building, down to the last nut, bolt and hinge. This stunning masterpiece was apparently the brainchild of a dozen or so drunken Cossacks.

Vodka can make you quite creative.

But if you’re serious about a wooden floor, then it’s a decision you’ll only ever have to make once, because there’s no question that if you take care of it, it will grace your home and hopefully keep you happy, calm and relaxed till you finally shuffle off this mortal coil. www.turgonflooring.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

Rasch Log Pattern Wallaper Rustic Wood Stripe Motif Faux Effect, £16.99, I Want Wallpaper.

WALLPAPER TRENDS FOR

2018

Want to wake up your walls? Gabrielle Fagan speaks to those-in-the-know about the hottest wallpaper looks.

Vixen Couture Wallpaper from a collection by Julien Macdonald, made to order from £180 per roll, Graham & Brown

W

alls - like presents - look their best when well-wrapped. And there’s now a huge choice of wallpapers out there, so they can shimmer, sparkle or stun with texture, pattern and colour.

Papering a single feature wall, or a whole room, is also a ‘fast’ way to embrace a trend. After all, we’re increasingly following home fashion just as closely we do clothes - and a winning combination of cutting-edge digital technology and brilliant designs makes it possible to literally transform a setting with just a roll of paper. Here, three experts in the field reveal their wallpaper wisdom and trend predictions for the year ahead...

Create drama and personality “Wallpaper has observed tradition for too long and people are starting to acknowledge its potential in their homes,” says Catherine Jacob, head of design at Murals Wallpaper, who offers a range of designs and can create bespoke wall murals from images, designs or photographs supplied by customers.

“Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram inspire people and help empower them to experiment, while the rise in personalisation means 82 DECEMBER 2017

people are enjoying creating unique designs for their walls.

“Generally, patterns are becoming more daring, with large-scale dark florals, jungle prints and bright coloured geometrics enlivening the landscape of walls once dominated by a conventional neutral palette of paint.”

For 2018, she predicts large-scale images or repeat patterns will offer a punchy alternative to the small, ditsy patterns of yesteryear.

“Millennial pink reigns as the new black and has become a staple base colour, but lilac tones are gaining popularity,” Catherine adds.

“Faux texture wallpapers are recognised as a brilliant way to change the character of a space, with brick for a rustic look or concrete for a chic industrial feel, or even wool for softer luxury. The craft/handmade movement is inspiring design, so look out for more free-flowing painterly styles, merging the look of artisan skills with digital-age technology.”

Top tip: To enhance a setting and ensure a beautiful wall covering is the focus of a room, pick out key colours from the design and repeat them in plain fabrics and painted woodwork.

“Platforms such as Pinterest and Instagram inspire people and help empower them to experiment”

(and below) Bugs Silver Wallpaper, £50 a roll, Graham & Brown

Play with pattern “These days, people can choose a look which totally reflects their personality and taste. Whether you prefer a bold colour palette with pops of bright colour, linear or geometric patterns, or shimmering metallics, there’s literally something for everyone,” says Paula Taylor, colour and trends specialist for Graham & Brown.

“For 2018, we’ve identified key trends which form the backdrop to our new collections. We’re focusing on raw beauty - tactility, texture and fresh white forms, which bring purity to a home - think weaves, cane work and wood grain with layered,

84 DECEMBER 2017

“We’re also honing in on gentle, subdued shades, such as millennial pink, arctic blue and cool heather, as well as offering dramatic, dark backdrops”

Gothic Damask Flock Cobalt Wallpaper, £75 per roll, in a rich cobalt, Graham & Brown

natural finishes.

“We’re also honing in on gentle, subdued shades, such as millennial pink, arctic blue and cool heather, as well as offering dramatic, dark backdrops. Our Gothic Damask Flock Cobalt Wallpaper (£75 per roll) comes in a rich cobalt.”

“Vibrant tones of turquoise, parakeet green and fuchsia which will burst onto the scene next year, reflecting the desire for botanical opulence and luscious vegetation,” Paula adds. “We’re also focusing on nature in our Bugs Silver Wallpaper, featuring butterflies and insects.”

“Global influences are here to stay, with an appreciation of intricate mark-making, weave dying and bold graphic elements. This trend will be a statement look, with sapphire, crimson and papaya colours, underlined by earthier rusts and greys in celebration of highly-coloured pattern.”

Top tip: For a stylish statement wall that conjures an eclectic traveller look, consider a bright tropical wallpaper featuring animated creatures and layered forest leaves, paired with natural wood furniture, bamboo accessories and wicker accents. For a modern feel, pair patterned wallpaper in a calming sage green with clean lines and contemporary furniture, and contrast vivid colours with glossy white finishes.

01708 755667

Blinds • Shutters • awnings Email: sales@drathmore.co.uk

www.drathmore.co.uk

H OME & PROPERTY

Arthouse Ardita Leaf Pattern Floral Motif Metallic Leaves Wallpaper, £15.99 a roll, I Want Wallpaper

Get involved with shimmer and texture “The trend for people to be brave with pattern and embrace colour will continue into 2018,” promises Alex Whitecroft, head of design at I Want Wallpaper.

“The popularity of floral patterns endures and classic patterns are getting an update, with new printing techniques and a fresh focus on detail and larger-scale patterns. A pink/purple palette will be the top favourite.

“The trend to bring the ‘outdoors in’, with the adoption of botanical and tropical looks, will evolve even further. There are so many fabulous ways to incorporate this look, from subtle embossed palm leaves to bold and bright tropical prints.”

“Industrial papers mimicking the look of natural materials will continue to be popular, with earthy tones and dark woods taking over from the pale, blonde Scandinavian-style which is now waning.”

“Metallics and designs incorporating sparkle and

Graham & Brown’s ‘Wallpaper of the Year’ for 2018, Pierre, which is seen here in a pink hand-painted magnolia design with a white gold metallic backdrop, currently from £40 to £32 a roll

Marburg Lyra Texture Marble Pattern Wallpaper Modern Metallic Motif, £17.99 a roll, I Want Wallpaper

“The popularity of floral patterns endures”

86 DECEMBER 2017

shine are another hot trend, and are brilliant in lightstarved rooms, as they help bounce light around and give an illusion of space.

“These wallpapers look stunning as a feature wall for a backdrop to a Christmas tree,” Alex adds.

“Generally, copper’s been popular, but many predict matt silver metallics will triumph in the next 12 months.”

Top tip: A large print used on all the walls in a small room, or one with low ceilings, may be overbearing - so use it sparingly or consider using a smaller-scale, simpler graphic design, or a simple textured paper.

Now all you need to do is choose the style you like most of ‘wall’, and get papering..

DREAM HOMES

H OME & PROPERTY

88 DECEMBER 2017

P

aul Jones from Castle Conservatories, Surrey and London’s premier design and build company, talks about possible changes in regulations and we hear about the project that Castle undertook for Surrey based residents Mr & Mrs Knight whose home has been enhanced by an elegant orangery that they feel has truly added to their property and lifestyle.

Housing stock levels are still at an all-time low but improving your home in the next 12 months could be the solution to giving you that extra living space that you need without having to move to a new house. With the possibility of changes to regulations we predict 2018 will see a lot of home owners choosing to enhance their properties.

Prior to May 2013 homeowners were limited to extending their properties up to 4 metres for detached houses and 3 metres for all other properties with a single storey. However, under the government Neighbour Consultation Scheme, which only runs until May 2019, orangeries can potentially be doubled in size to 8 metres and 6 metres respectively depending on the style of property.

The modern orangery is a luxury extension of your natural space extending your living area whilst adding value to your property.

Working closely with our customers and building relationships is what we really value at Castle, so we asked Mr and Mrs Knight from Epsom in Surrey to share their experience.

About the Project Mr and Mrs Knight commissioned Castle Conservatories to design and build a substantial orangery for their home in Surrey. Their brief was to build an orangery that would seamlessly extend their home from the existing property. The project that Castle designed and built was sympathetic to both the internal layout of the property and great care was taken to match the external elevation of the existing house. Using the latest roofing technology light floods into the orangery whist the insulating perimeter gives them a room they can use 365 days of the year.

“We used Castle Conservatories for our beautiful orangery. The craftsmanship was outstanding, and the finished product was fantastic. The orangery they created for us has enabled us to spend more time together as a family and added value and beauty to our home.

We could not fault the team, the work, and the aftercare of Castle Conservatories. We have and will continue to recommend this highly conscientious company.”

– Gemma & David Knight, Epsom.

Paul Jones, Castle Conservatories. Contact Paul on T: 020 8669 1500 E: Paul@castlecon.com www.castleconservatories.com Or visit our design centre at Woodcote Green Garden Centre, Woodmansterne Lane, Wallington, SM6 0SU

H OME & PROPERTY

Nordic Mood:

Bringing a Koselig lifestyle to the UK

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riven by a desire to bring a ‘Koselig’ lifestyle to the UK, new online homeware retailer Nordic Mood offer a wide selection of Scandinavian style furniture and home accessories that capture the cosy contentment of a traditional Norwegian way of life.

Based in Manchester, Nordic Mood was set up

by Emma Knowles and her Bergen-born partner Vemund, as they set about furnishing their new house and struggled to find the right pieces on the British high street to recreate the warmth and intimacy of the Vemund’s childhood home.

Passionate about design and quality, Emma and

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Vemund have curated a Nordic-inspired selection of furniture and home accessories that place an emphasis on function and form, focused on strong organic shapes that are both ergonomic and aesthetically pleasing, and tactile natural materials that add a comforting warmth and cosiness to the edit.

Further inspired by family holidays at their summer house in Sognefjord and the soft muted colour palettes of its natural surrounds, the Nordic Mood collection includes furniture, lighting and accessories that encapsulate the cosy, congenial mood of traditional Nordic home life, while promoting emotional wellbeing.

From timeless Lloyd Loom furniture designs by Vincent Sheppard that are both comfortable and cocooning, to contemporary woven textiles by Anna Lisa Smith that are pleasingly soft to the touch, and geometric plywood lampshades that recreate the twinkling shimmer of candlelight, Nordic Mood have everything you need to create a Koselig Nordic vibe in your own British home. www.nordicmood.co.uk

“From timeless Lloyd Loom furniture designs by Vincent Sheppard that are both comfortable and cocooning”

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We offer a fully flexible service that can be tailored to your exacting requirements cleaning as little, or as much as you wish, leaving you in complete control.

With our clear and simple all inclusive pricing structure you will find we have taken care of everything, from labour to machinery. We use 90% plant based products, proprietary brands and microfiber technology to ensure the best possible results.

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H OME & PROPERTY

Building a Bespoke Home T

he word ‘bespoke’ brings to mind something truly unique, customised, personalised and tailored, something Octagon pride themselves on with each new commission, creating one-off homes for individual clients.

Building or converting a home is a big commitment – from planning applications and designs to ground work and infrastructure, coordinating teams that bring together the skills required can easily turn what was supposed to be a dream home into a headache house.

Having specialised in prime residential property for more than three decades, Octagon have an experienced team of architects, interior designers and project managers in place, who interpret a client’s ideas, making the entire process from planning to completion an unforgettable and enjoyable experience.

Whether big ideas include a modernist mansion on the outskirts of London, a classic country cottage in the Home Counties or an inner city apartment conversion, Octagon Bespoke are well equipped with an award winning team to manage every step of the process.

Well established relationships with some of the finest craftsmen and installation specialists in the UK also make large scale renovations and extensions a speciality, with the developers counting

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stone masons and award winning bricklayers to cabinet makers and audio technicians amongst their key contacts.

No two of the custom homes are the same, with the specification completely down to the client; from indoor fitness suites, hydro pools and spas to the ultimate entertaining suites, wine cellars and made-toorder dog houses, the possibilities are endless.

John Pope, Director of Octagon’s Bespoke division, comments; “Everyone dreams of designing and building their own home, and even if funds are generous, in reality it is difficult to execute unless you are an experienced architect, surveyor or project manager.

“Whether our clients already have a plot of land with or without an unloved house in situ, or are still searching for that prime location, we can help. Our designers love the challenge of differing architectural styles, and creating something that’s truly unique and out of the ordinary.”

With projects from £1m undertaken, flexibility is a key asset for the Octagon Bespoke team, who have trebled their custom commissions in the past 12 months.

John continues; “Our Bespoke homes are not a budget option, but Octagon represents excellent value, and will keep on rewarding for years to come.” www.octagon.co.uk

“Our designers love the challenge of differing architectural styles, and creating something that’s truly unique and out of the ordinary”

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H OME & PROPERTY

New homes sales going strong at Guildford development

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he first few properties have been snapped up by buyers at a new development in Guildford.

Sales have been going strong at Bellway’s Trinity Quarter development since the homes were first released for sale at the end of October.

The development of 56 homes off Walnut Tree Close is a collection of one and two-bedroom apartments, being built to replace a former warehouse building on land at Wey Corner.

Planning permission for development of the site was granted by Guildford Borough Council in November 2016, and work to demolish the former warehouse building began shortly after.

Nathan Stevenson, Regional Director for Bellway’s South London division, said: “We’re so pleased that we’re off to a flying start at Trinity Quarter, with a brisk sales rate and a very healthy amount of visitors.

“We knew that the homes we’re building are much needed, but it’s still gratifying to see that translate into happy buyers and busy sales staff.

“We’ve seen a lot of enquiries from young professionals and downsizers, who are attracted to the spacious layouts of the apartments as well as the river views from some properties.

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“Trinity Quarter is proving to be a very popular development, so we’re urging people who may be interested to visit our marketing suite soon to see what we have to offer.”

As part of the planning agreement for the site, Bellway will make a number of contributions to enhance the local community. £220,000 will go towards the improvement and maintenance of green spaces, £160,000 will be invested in education and £59,000 will be spent on road improvements in the area.

A further £62,800 will be used to create a new footpath across the River Wey, which will link Walnut Tree Close to the centre of the town.

One and two-bedroom apartments are currently on sale priced from £330,000.

The apartments are available to purchase using Help to Buy, a Government scheme which means that buyers can purchase with as little as a five percent deposit and a 75 per cent mortgage. The remaining 20 per cent is provided as an equity loan from the government which is interest-free for five years.

For more information visit Savills on Guildford High Street which is open between 9am and 6pm from Monday to Friday, and 9am to 4pm on Saturday.

“Trinity Quarter is proving to be a very popular development, so we’re urging people who may be interested to visit our marketing suite soon”

H OME & PROPERTY

Happy Birthday To Us! This month we are celebrating the 3rd anniversary of our lettings and property consultancy business. It’s been a roller coaster ride with a market that is keeping everyone on their toes. With 50 years industry experience behind us, Sheila and I opened our agency in 2014 when we saw a gap to create a truly bespoke, independent property consultancy focusing on the investment market in Surrey. We have already firmly established ourselves as a leading player alongside our corporate competition, regularly beating them. We have won a silver award for Best Letting Agent 2015 and we did more lets in the prestigious Ashley Park private estate than any other agent in 2017. Word of mouth and recommendations continue to be our best source of new clients. If you’d like to be part of our success, to find out what we do differently or just to chat property then we’d love to hear from you.

Thank you to all of our loyal clients and customers

WeyBridge, SUrrey

£8750pcm WalTon on THameS, SUrrey

£4995pcm

more qUaliTy properTieS reqUired for THe forTHcoming SeaSon.

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