St Albans Life Magazine June 2012

ST ALBANS LIFE

ST ALBANS LIFE

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W I T H D E S I R A B L E A R E A S A C R O S S B E A U T I F U L H E RT F O R D S H I R E T H E

Q U A L I T Y

L I F E S T Y L E

M A G A Z I N E

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SERGE HILL GARDENS, ST ALBANS THE AUDI POLO THE OLYMPIC COLLECTION WITH GALLERY ROUGE EYECARE WITH GRANT & GLASS WWW.THELIFEMAGAZINES.COM THE QUALITY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE JUNE 2012

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LOCAL LIFE | HISTORY | EVENTS | BEAUTY | HOME & GARDEN | PROPERTY

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Welcome to our June issue Since the first Championships in 1877, Wimbledon has grown from its roots as a garden-party tournament to a Grand Slam tournament with a following of millions around the world.

The biggest spectator polo day in the world is held at Guards Polo Club in the heart of the Royal Park at Windsor. From this year, this historic event will be sponsored by Audi, the leading luxury carmaker.

The 2012 BBC Proms has revealed details of the broad-ranging programme of events planned for its 118th season. Opening at the Royal Albert Hall on 13th July 2012, the festival promises two months of the world’s greatest artists, composers, orchestras and ensembles across 92 concerts.

Further to their sell-out exhibition in 2010, Gallery Rouge are proud to announce the highly anticipated return of Canadian based art sensation Kal Gajoum to the UK. Using superb palette knife techniques to craft exceptional impressionist paintings, Gajoum has built an enviable international reputation, which ensures his work is in great demand This gives you just a small taste of exciting events and articles featured in this month’s issue...

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Editor Faye Manning Editor Assistant Katie Miller Sub Editor Alex Lux Fashion Editor Hazel Englander Education Development Manager Corinne Sugar Design & Production Toni Perry Account Manager Jackie Duke Sales James Marshall Directors Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

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FEATURE

An ExquisiteWine Club

AT AUBERGE DU LAC

et deep in the Hertfordshire countryside, Auberge du Lac sits on one of England’s most beautiful country estates, and is unrivalled in its setting. Positioned waterside, with magnificent views over a tranquil lake, extensive parkland and the prestigious Brocket Hall, views from the restaurant’s terrace are captivating, as is the innovative cuisine from Executive Chef Phil Thompson, who retained his first Michelin Star for a fourth year running in 2011, and whose talents appear to be on the continual rise. Phil, who has transformed Hertfordshire’s flagship restaurant since taking on the role of Executive Chef in 2005, adds the accolade – the most coveted honour for fine cuisine – to the string of awards he and the restaurant have already garnered.

The Auberge du Lac wine club opened its doors in January and aims to provide a dedicated wine service to their members. With a series of benefits listed below and an exclusive wine cellar with over 800 bins, this could well be the perfect membership to enhance your love of wine!

10 JUNE2012

Benefits

omplimentary consultation with sommelier C Complimentary bottle to take away Ability to purchase wine from the Exclusive Members Wine List Brokerage service ‘If you can’t find it- we’ll find it for you’ 20% Discounted rates on wine purchases from Auberge du Lac when dining Priority booking for events through the year Discounted room hire rates for Private Dining Wine Auctions £25 Voucher to spend in the restaurant upon joining

Price Valid for 12 months .

£185 Single Membership £250 Couple Membership

For more information about Auberge du Lac, Welwyn, Hertfordshire AL8 7XG call 01707 368888 or email aubergeevents@brocket-hall.co.uk or visit the website at www.brocket-hall.co.uk

LOCAL EVENTS

Kal Gajoum

PERSONAL ATTENDANCE

MONTCALM HOTEL, LONDON

JULY 21ST, 2PM TILL 4PM

THE OLYMPIC COLLECTION OFFICIAL ARTIST OF THE WINTER OLYMPICS 2010

Further to their sell-out exhibition in 2010, Gallery Rouge are proud to announce the highly anticipated return of Canadian based art sensation Kal Gajoum to the UK. Using superb palette knife techniques to craft exceptional impressionist paintings, Gajoum has built an enviable international reputation, which ensures his work is in great demand.

Gallery Rouge are delighted to be working with the 5* luxury boutique hotel The Montcalm in holding this exclusive exhibition in the heart of London. Located at the top of Park Lane near Marble Arch, Montcalm provides the perfect venue for this intimate collection.

Please note there are limited spaces, so a request for an invitation is essential.

12 JUNE2012

To receive your invitation for this highly anticipated exhibition, please contact the gallery at info@galleryrouge.co.uk

FOLLOW US ON

For more information about Gallery Rouge, 27 Chequer Street, St Albans AL1 3YJ call 01727 860401 or email info@galleryrouge.co.uk.

www.galleryrouge.co.uk

FEATURE

ACROSS THE GENERATIONS

I

Serge Hill Gardens

n the hamlet of Bedmond, on the edge of St Albans, sit two homes belonging to the Stuart-Smiths, a name made synonymous with landscape and garden design. Separated by a small country lane are their two gardens, each different to the other in many ways, but both created by generations of a family and united by the passion and vision of plant lovers.

Serge Hill has, since 1927, been a family home and garden as well as,

14 JUNE2012

during the 1950s and 60s, a market garden where the six Stuart-Smith children gained their early gardening experience under the expert tutelage of their mother.

South of the elegant white house, a wide expanse of lawn stretches out to the ha ha with views over the parkland beyond. Intersected by gravel paths, the walled garden to the east is home to vegetables and espaliered apple trees, where self-seeding catnip softly borders the no-dig beds.

FEATURE

One corner patch is filled with flowers of hot colours – in the spring like fountains. Rusted corten steel tanks – from Tom’s 2006 Chelsea fiery tulips are followed by summer-flowering alstromeria and eremurus. garden – reflect back not only the geometric lines of this garden, but also the form and foliage of trees in the mirror-like surface of the water.

More flowering plants are grown in beds and borders at the far end of the walled garden. Allium heads stand proud among herbaceous To the west of the Barn, the main garden leads away from a sunny plantings: alchemilla mollis, geraniums and perennial herbs provide an terrace. Wide and closely mown paths draw the eye past heavily planted ever-changing succession as the seasons pass. borders through successive doorways of formal hornbeam hedges to open meadow beyond that blends seamlessly into the countryside.

Over the wall a south-facing border is framed with established climbers Varied plantings that include grasses, sedums, euphorbias and poppies and small trees. Across the weathered brick a multi-trunked gnarled are contained by undulating linked yew balls with low box hedges wisteria forms a permanent backdrop to spring bluebells and summer forming smaller enclosures within. Tall flowering perennials grow peonies and foxgloves. at a rapid rate through the summer, speeding past head height and enclosing the visitor in heady tunnels of foliage.

Just across the road is The Barn, a converted 17th century timberframed building that became home to Tom and Sue Stuart-Smith in These inspiring gardens have grown, changed and progressed through the late 1980s, following their marriage, and where they have created an nurture and care over the years – rather like the families who made elegant series of gardens, progressing from formal and contained garden them. rooms to informal open prairie and meadow areas.

The Barn Garden by Tom and Sue Stuart Smith is available from Enclosed on three sides by the Barn’s raised terrace, the courtyard garden Amazon with all profits going to charity. is a secluded space of parallel gravel beds with paths of thin block pavers and open areas of narrow strip decking for seating. The rectangular Serge Hill Gardens opens for the National Gardens Scheme on Sunday planting spaces contrast with irregular clump plantings of French 24th June from 2–5pm, combined admission £7.00. More information on lavender, salvia and astrantia with vibrant sprengeri tulips bursting out this and other NGS Open Gardens can be found at www.ngs.org.uk JUNE2012 15

EVENTS

H SEPTEMBER

13TH JULY – 8T

BBC PROMS 2012 International orchestras, animated artists and an iconic Barenboim Beethoven cycle for BBC Proms 2012.

T

he 2012 BBC Proms has revealed details of the broad-ranging programme of events planned for its 118th season. Opening at the Royal Albert Hall on 13th July 2012, the festival promises two months of the world’s greatest artists, composers, orchestras and ensembles across 92 concerts, including four Last Night celebrations around the UK. With the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics, this summer promises to be unlike any other, and as such, the Proms is delighted to be part of theLondon 2012 Festival.

Throughout the season there is music to reflect these major events, and on the opening night of the Proms, four British conductors take to the Royal Albert Hall stage to ‘pass the baton’: Martyn Brabbins,Sir Mark Elder, Edward Gardner and Sir Roger Norrington.

Daniel Barenboim and his celebrated West-Eastern Divan Orchestra make Proms history by performing all nine Beethoven symphonies - the first time the entire cycle has featured at the Proms in over 60 years -whilst also becoming the Proms’ first ever nonBBC orchestra-in-residence.

English National Opera and the Royal Opera House both

16 JUNE2012

perform complete operas in the same season for the first time; the São Paulo Symphony Orchestra becomes the first Brazilian orchestra to appear at the festival and in an exciting collaboration with Aardman Animations, the much-loved Wallace & Gromit characters are transported to the Royal Albert Hall stage for the world premiere of Wallace’s new work, a BBC commission!

The season celebrates some of the world’s most eminent living composers including Pierre Boulez.

British composers celebrating significant birthdays include Oliver Knussen and Simon

Bainbridge at 60, and Hugh Wood and Alexander Goehr at 80. There are also 150th birthday tributes to Debussy and Delius.

As ever the Proms remains firmly committed to new music, with 17 BBC commissions - a further five world premieres and 14 other UK and London premieres, including versions of music by Mendelssohn and Gabrieli, previously unheard in the UK. On top of this are 10 short BBC commissions which make up the Music Walk around South Kensington, part of the centenary celebrations of John Cage.

Full details of the season and tickets are available at www.bbc.co.uk/proms or 0844 209 7353 and in person at the Royal Albert Hall

Youth is a major focus of the festival. From 4th – 6th August four youth orchestras from around the UK, as well as the National Youth Choirs of Great Britain and Wales, perform at the Proms.

Other UK and international youth ensembles include the Juilliard Orchestra and the Aldeburgh World Orchestra, created to bring together the best young performers from around the globe. The BBC Proms Youth Choir gives its inaugural performance, part of an on-going four-year project.

In addition to the six BBC performing groups who once again provide the backbone to the season, there is a stellar line up of international orchestras including the Berliner Philharmoniker with Sir Simon Rattle and the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra with Bernard Haitink, who for the first time give two performances each in one season. The Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra under Riccardo Chailly also gives two concerts.

In the spirit of the Proms enduring mission to make the best classical music available to everyone, every Prom is broadcast live on BBC Radio 3 with many televised on BBC One, BBC Two and BBC Four. For the seventh year in a row, Promming tickets remain just £5 and for the first time this season,seats are half-price for under-18s.

Roger Wright, Director BBC Proms and Controller BBC Radio 3, says: “From Daniel Barenboim to Wallace & Gromit, we once again look forward to welcoming the world’s greatest artists to a festival where there is something for everyone to enjoy. Promming tickets remain just £5 and there are plenty of ways for people to enjoy the events in person, on radio, television and online. The BBC’s on-going commitment in running the festival allows the Proms to be one of the best value-formoney experiences anywhere.”

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FEATURE

BRITAIN’S RICHEST

ARE GETTING RICHER

BRITAIN’S RICH ARE GETTING RICHER, AND STEEL TYCOON LAKSHMI MITTAL IS STILL THE RICHEST OF THEM ALL, ACCORDING TO THE SUNDAY TIMES RICH LIST.

The Indian-born billionaire topped the list for the seventh successive year with an estimated fortune of £12.7bn, despite also suffering the biggest fall in wealth of any of the 1,000 men and women named.

Mr Mittal and his family were worth 4.8bn less than last year, leaving them only just ahead of Uzbek metals magnate and Arsenal shareholder, Alisher Usmanov, with £12.3bn.

Chelsea FC owner Roman Abramovich came in third with £9.5bn, down £800m on last year.

2012 saw a record eight lottery millionaires joining the list, led by Europe’s biggest lottery winners Colin and Chris Weir at number 462, with £160m. They donated £1m to the Scottish National Party, making them the country’s top political donors, ahead of Peter Cruddas, Sir Anthony Bamford and Lord Sainsbury.

THE TOP 10

The wealthiest Briton is the Duke of Westminster, in seventh place with an estimated £7.35bn, thanks to his central London property empire.

1

Lakshmi Mittal and family

£12.7bn

2

Alisher Usmanov

£12.3bn

3

Roman Abramovich

£9.5bn

4

Sri and Gopi Hinduja

£8.6bn

The combined wealth of Britain’s 1,000 richest men and women reached a record high of more than £414bn.

5

Leonard Blavatnik

6

Ernesto and Kirsty Bertarelli

7

The Duke of Westminster

£7.35bn

8

David and Simon Reuben

£7.08bn

£7.58bn £7.4bn

“This year we’ve got a record 77 billionaires, a lot of them foreign-born billionaires, based in London who like London as the centre of their particular universe,” Mr Beresford said. “ But the best examples of people who are getting prosperous and rich on the back of their own endeavours are Britons like a guy called Michael Oliver (number 243), who is in his 70s and yet runs the biggest valvemaking company in Europe. He’s making enormous sums of profits and they’re generating more jobs and more tax revenue and it’s exactly what we need.”

9 John Fredriksen and family £6.6bn Rich List compiler Philip Beresford told us: 10 Galen and George Weston £5.9bn “Obviously it’s very difficult in this age of austerity London and the southeast still dominate

(Toronto) and family when the government puts out the mantra ‘we’re the list with 53% of entries, but there are all in this together’ and the rich seem to be getting now 74 Scottish entries (up from 70 last richer and richer.”However, I wouldn’t criticize the rich because a lot of those year), and 24 Welsh (the same as last year). The list’s compilers admit on this rich list are based here, they’re investing in companies here, and if they it is a “broad brush estimate”, based on public accounts, market get richer hopefully the rest of us will get a bit more prosperous on the rising intelligence, and in some cases the individuals themselves. tide of wealth.”

And those behind the list report more than a slight air of oneThe Hinduja Brothers, Srichand, 76, and Gopichand, 72, returned to upmanship amongst our wealthiest citizens. Mr Beresford related the prominence this year, rising five places to claim the fourth spot, with story of one man who phoned his friend, also on the list to say: ‘Hello, an estimated fortune of £8.6bn, up an impressive £2.6bn on last year. number 21 here, am I talking to number 36?’

18 JUNE2012

FEATURE

T

he world’s most expensive cruise trip has been unveiled - and it comes with a rather large price tag of £1million per couple.

The mammoth cruise departs in Los Angeles and includes visits to 28 countries including French Polynesia, New Zealand, Malaysia, the Maldives and Mauritius.

Six Star Cruises’ trip of a lifetime lasts 124 days and comes complete with VIP transportation and stays in the world’s most opulent hotels. The luxury starts from the moment you leave home, with a helicopter picking you up and whisking you off to a UK airport. As you fly, you will enjoy £4,000-per-kilo Beluga Caviar, Dom Perignon Rosi champagne and Da Hong

Pao tea, which is harvested from plants that are 1,000 years old and cost £2,000 per kilo.

Next comes a private jet to take you to Los Angeles. En route, a Michelinstarred chef will cook up a ten-course taster menu. Once you touch down in LA, a chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce Phantom will be waiting to transport you to the ship. Accommodation includes the Royal Suite, with two 1,000 sq ft bedrooms, marbled bathrooms and spacious verandas.

The epic trip takes in 28 countries including New Zealand, Malaysia and Mauritius, and works out at approximately £8,000 a day.

The package includes a four night pre-cruise stay at the Beverly Wilshire

Hotel and a four night post-cruise stay in a £7,300-a-night apartment (complete with rooftop Jacuzzi, cinema and butler) located in a gated community on Sunset Island, Miami. The ship sets sail on 14th January 2013.

So far Six Star Cruises has not revealed whether there are any bookings so far for the millionaires’ holiday. Mal Barritt, company director, said it was “likely to be the most expensive cruise ever sold.” “We have listened to what some of our most discerning customers say they look for in a holiday and have created the most desirable cruise holiday in the world,” he said. “This is truly a cruise that will never be forgotten.”

The ultimate cruise

Image: Benson & Clegg

for £1million per couple

2 0 2J Uj u NnEe220011 2

Kia and Mazda dealership motors into Harpenden

BY STUART BROOKS MCIPR In a major boost for the Hertfordshire economy, Paul Brayley, owner of local dealership group, Brayley Honda, located in St Albans and Hemel Hempstead, is expanding his car retail business by 25% this year with the launch of two new car franchises, Kia and Mazda, in Harpenden.

Having acquired the lease for the long vacant former car retail site on the High Street, Harpenden, the new dualfranchise 11-car showroom has a large service and MOT workshop, valeting bay and plenty of customer parking.

Trading as Brayley Kia and Brayley Mazda, the new business will create up to 35 new jobs in the local area.

Announcing his support of the new dealership in the town, Member

of Parliament for Harpenden and Hitchin, the Rt Hon Peter Lilley MP, commented: “I welcome this new investment, which is good economic news and vital to ensure we retain a vibrant High Street with a varied range of services.”

Commenting on the company’s move into Harpenden, Paul Brayley, said: “As a well established local business, I’m very excited at the prospect of developing the company further as a customer focused and financially robust regional dealer group. The economy remains challenging but we have proved that there’s a healthy market for good old fashioned service in supporting motorists, where people are well

Paul Brayley, Managing Director of the new Brayley Kia and Brayley Mazda dealership now open in Harpenden. looked after.”

“The saying ‘your people are your business’ is completely true and ours has a culture of entrepreneurship. We appreciate that all our customers have different requirements and our team is empowered to assist them in every way possible. It’s our policy to treat every visitor as a welcomed guest in our home – every day, every time, without fail, no exceptions.”

As well as offering the whole Kia and Mazda range of new cars, the dealership offers a wide selection of manufacturer approved used cars.

Looking after your car is a team of experienced and highly qualified technicians. Everything you need to keep your car safe on the road, all in one place. The dealership is also a Motability Scheme partner.

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EVENTS

Henley Royal Regatta WEDN

E

27th JUSDAY NE TO SUN DAY 1st JUL Y

With its 160 year history, it is undoubtedly the best known regatta in the world and it holds a unique place in the respect and affection of all oarsmen – both active and retired.

Founded in 1839, it is famous both as a great sporting occasion and as a social event. People come from all over the world to attend, either as competitors or as spectators.

organisation of up to 90 races on some of the five days. The length of the Course is 1 mile 550 yards. It takes approximately seven minutes to cover, so there are often two races at once on the Course for much of the day. The number of races is, of course, reduced on each successive day, leaving only the Finals to be rowed on the last day.

Winning an event at Henley has always been considered one of the greatest achievements of a rower’s career, even amongst those who have become world champions; and a rowing life is not complete if it does not include competing at Henley.

The first rounds of the Thames, Temple, Princess Elizabeth, Wyfold, Britannia, Prince Albert and Fawley Challenge Cups will begin racing on Wednesday 27th June 2012. The racing timetable for the Wednesday will be posted on the Regatta website on the afternoon of Sunday 24th June. The first rounds of all other events will begin racing on Thursday 28th or Friday 29th June.

There are 20 events in total: 6 classes

Unlike multi-lane international regattas, Henley still operates a knock-out draw with only two boats racing in each heat. This entails the 24 JUNE2012

of race for Eights, 5 for Fours (3 coxless and 2 coxed), 5 for Quadruple Sculls, and races for Coxless Pairs and Double Sculls. In addition there are single sculling races for both men and women. A record number of 133 overseas crews have entered this year’s event, easily breaking the previous record of 126 overseas crews set in the 150th Anniversary year back in 1989. Twenty one overseas nations are represented, the second highest number ever. There are 499 crews entered in total.

likely to be elected to membership. Please contact Henley Royal Regatta for a membership application form or for further information on the application process. Those attending the Regatta in the Stewards’ Enclosure must dress in accordance with long-established tradition. Gentlemen are required to wear lounge suits, or jackets or blazers with flannels, and a tie or cravat. Ladies are required to wear dresses or skirts with a hemline below the knee and will not be admitted wearing divided skirts, culottes or THE STEWARDS’ trousers of any kind. Similarly, no ENCLOSURE one will be admitted to the Stewards’ Enclosure wearing shorts or jeans.

Only open to members and their Whilst not a requirement, it is guests. There are now 6,500 Members customary for ladies to wear hats. and the waiting list is nearly 1,000 – this means that it could take up Members are particularly asked to 10 years before an applicant is to bring the dress code to the

EVENTS

THE HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA IS ONE OF THE PREMIER SPORTING & SOCIAL OCCASIONS IN THE BRITISH CALENDAR. attention of their Guests, to ensure that the standards are maintained and to avoid the possibility of embarrassment of a Guest being refused admission. Children under ten years of age are not admitted.

THE REGATTA ENCLOSURE This situated just downstream from the Stewards’ Enclosure and is open to the general public, competitors and supporters. The atmosphere is less formal than the Stewards’ Enclosure as there is no dress code, although many who attend do enter into the spirit of the Regatta, wearing club blazers and other rowing apparel.

Children of all ages are welcome and admission is free to under 14s when accompanied by an adult who has purchased a Regatta Enclosure badge. To view the racing, the Regatta

Enclosure offers seating alongside the river and in an open grandstand. There is also an excellent covered restaurant, an outside dining area and a bar.

THE RIVER LOUNGE BY “RHUBARB” HENLEY This most quintessential and unique of English institutions is a truly spectacular occasion and the perfect setting for entertaining. Situated opposite the world famous Temple Island, only yards from the racing action itself, The River Lounge by “rhubarb” Henley has the perfect vantage from which to take in this remarkable event. This exclusive venue has re-invented the hospitality experience from a traditional and conservative environment into a fresh and contemporary space. The enclosure continues to grow in

popularity each year and regularly receives critical acclaim. Guests enter the stunning marquee and start the day with a delicious champagne and canapé breakfast. Afterwards they lounge in the private and beautifully sculptured gardens and can enjoy the very best in gourmet cuisine. Guests enjoy a complimentary bar throughout the day, live acoustic music, head and neck massages, a private river cruise and much more. Plus all of this is delivered with a level of personal friendly service synonymous with only the most elite of occasions. The River Lounge is an unrivalled experience, delivering the very best in hospitality and entertainment. They also offer hospitality outside of the Regatta for weddings or dinner parties on the river, as they are now partnered with Hobbs of Henley, who operate three stylish river boats along the Thames.

Car parking spaces are available on the Regatta site and it is advisable to purchase daily parking labels in advance. Trains run frequently to Henley from London Paddington and a special timetable is implemented by First Great Western for the duration of the Regatta.

Henley Royal Regatta, Henleyon-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2LY. For further details please visit www.hrr.co.uk For further details of “rhubarb” Henley please call 01491 832 283 or visit their website at www.rhubarb.net/henley JUNE2012 25

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FEATURE

Y MONJDUANE 25THTO LY 8TH JU

Since the first Championships in 1877, Wimbledon has grown from its roots as a garden-party tournament to a Grand Slam tournament with a following of millions around the world.

The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club, responsible for staging the world’s leading tennis tournament, is a private Club founded in 1868, originally as ‘The All England Croquet Club’. Its first ground was situated off Worple Road, Wimbledon.

In 1875 lawn tennis, a game introduced by major Walter Clopton Wingfield a year or so earlier and originally called Sphairistike, was added to the activities of the Club.

In the spring of 1877 the Club was re-titled ‘The All England Croquet and Lawn Tennis Club’ and signalled its change of name by instituting the first Lawn Tennis Championship.

The only event held in 1877 was the Gentlemen’s Singles which was won

by Spencer Gore, an old Harrovian rackets player, from a field of 22.

About 200 spectators paid one shilling each to watch the final.

The lawns at the Ground were arranged in such a way that the principal court was situated in the middle with the others arranged around it; hence the title ‘Centre Court’, which was retained when the Club moved in 1922 to the present site in Church Road opened by King George V. The foresight of building the present stadium, designed to hold 14,000 people, did more to popularise the game worldwide than anything that has happened to date.

However, in 1980 four new courts were brought into commission on the north side of the ground, which meant the Centre Court was once more at the centre of the tournament. The opening of the new No. 1 Court in 1997 emphasised the description.

By 1882 activity at the Club was almost exclusively confined to lawn tennis and that year the word ‘croquet’ was dropped from the title. However, for sentimental reasons, it was restored in 1899 and the club has been known as ‘The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club’ ever since.

JUNE2012 27

FEATURE

ENTER THE LADIES In 1884 the Ladies’ Singles was inaugurated and, from an entry of 13 players, Maud Watson became the first champion. That same year, the Gentlemen’s Doubles was started, with the trophy donated by the Oxford University Lawn Tennis Club after the end of their doubles championship, played from 1879 to 1883.

OVERSEAS CHAMPIONS By the turn of the century Wimbledon had assumed an international character and in 1905 May Sutton of the United States became the first Champion from overseas when she won the Ladies’ Singles. She repeated her success in 1907, the year when Norman Brookes of Australia became the first Gentlemen’s Singles champion from overseas. Since that year, only two players from Great Britain, Arthur Gore and Fred Perry, have managed to win the Men’s Singles while there have been five British Ladies’ Champions since Wimbledon moved to Church Road — Kitty McKane Godfree, Dorothy Round, Angela Mortimer, Ann Jones and Virginia Wade.

WARTIME WIMBLEDON During the Second World War the Club managed to remain open despite a severe curtailment of staff. The premises were used for a variety of civil defence and military functions such as fire and ambulance services, Home Guard and a decontamination unit. Troops stationed within the vicinity were allowed to use the main concourse for drilling.

Another familiar sight around the ground was a small farmyard consisting of pigs, hens, geese, rabbits, etc. In October 1940 a ‘stick’ of five 500lb bombs struck Centre Court, resulting in the loss of 1,200 seats.

28 JUNE2012

With the war in Europe over, signs of normality began to return to Wimbledon during June and July 1945, when a series of matches between Allied servicemen took place on the old No. 1 Court, which had escaped enemy action. Early in 1946 the decision was taken to resume The Championships that summer.

In more recent years long-standing records have been broken. In 1980 Bjorn Borg of Sweden became the first player to win the Gentlemen’s Singles five times in the post-challenge round era; a feat replicated by Roger Federer between 2003 and 2007. In 1985 Boris Becker, aged 17, became the youngest player, the first unseeded player and the first German to win the Gentlemen’s Singles. In 1987 Martina Navratilova of the United States became the first player to win the Ladies’ Singles six times in succession and in 1990 she attained the all-time record of nine victories in the event. Pete Sampras of the United States registered his seventh win in 2000 and in 2001, Goran Ivanisevic became the first wildcard to win the Gentlemen’s Singles.

Over the years the Club has constantly been aware of the need to provide facilities and ground improvements compatible with the pace and demand of modern day sport. Seldom has a year gone by without alteration to the ground or some organisational change taking place. In recent years the momentum has increased and major works programmes have provided improved facilities for the players, spectators, officials and media.

WIMBLEDON 2012 Wimbledon 2012 will see the finest players from over 60 countries compete in the five main Championships events. In the second week

FEATURE

of the Tournament, these players will be joined by Juniors, Veteran and Wheelchair competitors, playing in their own events on the Championships’ lawns. The All England Club, Wimbledon has announced that the total prize money at this year’s 126th Championships, will be £16.1million, an increase of 10% on 2011.

Grounds open at 10:30am each day. On Courts No.2–19, play is provisionally scheduled to start at 11:30am for main draw matches on at least the first eight days and at 11:00am for the Junior matches on the middle Saturday and during the second week. Centre Court play scheduled to start at 1pm, except the last two days when 2pm. No.1 Court play scheduled to start at 1pm for all 13 days.

CHANGES TO THE ORDER OF PLAY The Club tries to play all matches on the courts and days published.

However, occasionally it is necessary to switch a match from one court to another. This can be for a number of reasons.Some players remain involved in several events towards the end of The Championships and it may be necessary to move a match to avoid a clash. The Club tries to give similar rest periods between matches for players due to play each other.

The majority of tickets for The Championships are allocated through the Public Ballot. Applications for the 2012 Ballot are now closed.

The Ticket Office is open for all ticketing queries, normal opening hours are Monday to Friday from 9am – 5pm (excl. Bank Holidays).

Tel: 020 8971 2473. Please Note: The Ticket Office is available for all ticket and ballot enquiries but is NOT a Box Office.

Provisional match schedule for The Championships 2012, all to be confirmed….

COURT(S) All All

START DATES Monday 25 June & Tuesday 26 June

COMPETITION Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Singles Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Doubles

Thursday 28 June

Mixed Doubles

Saturday 30 June

Boys’ and Girls’ Singles

Tuesday 3 July

Ladies’ Singles QF Boys’ and Girls’ Doubles Veteran’s Invitational Doubles

Wednesday 4 July

Gentlemen’s Singles QF

Centre/No.1

Thursday 5 July

Ladies’ Singles SF Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Doubles SF

Centre Centre/No.1

Friday 6 July

Gentlemen’s Singles SF Gentlemen’s and Ladies’ Doubles SF Ladies Wheelchair SF

Centre/No.1

All No.1 Centre

Approximately 500 tickets are reserved daily at the turnstiles for Days 1 to 9 for both Centre Court and No.2 Court and approximately 500 tickets are available for all 13 Days for No.1 Court. Several thousand Ground Admission tickets are available each day. This number will vary depending on the number of people already in the grounds, the number of courts in play and the weather.

For more information about queueing, please visit www.wimbledon.com/championships/tickets/queueing Several hundred Centre Court and No.3 Court will be sold online on the day before play via the Ticketmaster website. www.wimbledon.com

JUNE2012 29

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FEATURE

London In Full Bloom!

CHELSEA FLOWER SHOW 2012 HIGHLIGHTS The Chelsea Flower show is one of the most famous flower shows in the world, put on each year by the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) in the grounds of the Royal Hospital Chelsea in London. It is the garden design equivalent of a catwalk at a fashion show.

Year on year, garden designers at the Chelsea Flower Show are expected to put on a novel show, and this year certainly did not disappoint.

The flower show sold out in record time this year, as the UK’s love affair with gardening shows no sign of dimming.A patriotic flavour dominated this year’s Show with Union Flags, topiary corgis and nostalgic touches in many displays.

THE TALKING POINTS THIS YEAR...

The show gardens always dominate the media headlines, though it is often noted it is the

Great Pavilion that represents true Chelsea. The skill of nurseries exhibit to such a high standard, with such attention to detail irrespective of the respective natural flowering seasons.

Diarmuid Gavin set the tongues wagging again with his giant pyramid - the Westland

Magical Garden won the award for most creative show garden and certainly looked the part on Press Day with Chelsea pensioners forming a guard of honour ringing each of the pyramid’s seven terraces.

Celebrities were spotted at the world-famous RHS Chelsea Flower Show decorating miniature plant pots to help raise funds for the RHS Campaign for School Gardening. Pot Art were auctioned online so that more school children have access to gardening.

JUNE2012 31

FEATURE

Pots by Alan Titchmarsh and Rachel de Thame, presenters of the BBC Chelsea Flower Show programmes, were added to the online eBay auction, and within a few hours had reached over £200 each.

Ricky Gervais, Antonio Carlucci, Rob Brydon, Lorraine Pascale and Esther Rantzen to name a few, joined the Pot Art line up at the RHS show. Joan Collins, Julian Fellowes and Miranda Richardson also stopped by to see their pots showcased alongside other participants, including Dame Judi Dench, Sir Paul Smith, Pixie Lott and Fearne Cotton. The plants pots are being auctioned online to raise money for the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, which helps more than half of all British schools to get pupils growing.

Ricky Gervais said: “Everyone should do something creative and I can’t think of anything better than appreciating the beauty of nature. That is why I support a campaign that encourages kids to get involved in gardening.”

The RHS Campaign for School Gardening supports over half of all schools in the UK, engaging

32 JUNE2012

three million children, who learn about plants, gardening and the environment. The campaign has gone from strength to strength since launching less than five years ago. RHS research shows that gardening boosts children’s development, teaches life skills and makes them happier and healthier.

has been specially designed

by Dartington Crystal. It is a large lead crystal presentation (or fruit) bowl with a solid crystal pedestal base. It is hand engraved with the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2012 Iris images, incorporating the Diamond Jubilee celebration and RHS Chelsea Flower Show logos.

with a brooch, donated by its designer Kristjan Eyjolfsson, an Icelandic jewellery designer and goldsmith, who uses recycled metals and ethically-sourced stones in his work. The brooch was specially designed and inspired by Iris ungicularis, the flower chosen by the RHS to celebrate the Diamond Jubilee.

The Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh took a private tour of the Chelsea Flower Show before its public opening, She chose a lilac crepe coat and appropriately themed headwear for her visit. In celebration of the Diamond Jubilee, a new award has been created at this year’s RHS Chelsea Flower Show.

The Diamond Jubilee Award

The Queen presented HW Hyde & Son with the award for the best exhibit in the Great Pavilion.

For this year’s show the company created its first-ever walkthrough lily display, consisting of several hundred growing plants arranged in three beds.

To welcome HM The Queen when she visited the RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2012, the RHS commissioned a large floral bedding scheme designed by the Parish of St Helier, Jersey. The scheme was a three dimensional tiered design created from a mixture of summer flowering and foliage plants. The centrepiece was a rotating Jersey

During her visit, the RHS also presented The Queen

FEATURE

Accession Issue Postal stamp.

She also saw three floral corgis on the St Helier Jersey garden, made

by Anna Brook at iapetus gallery, and the RHS has added two new Royal Autographs to its collection, one signed jointly by The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh, and one signed by The Prince of

Show 2012, sponsored

by M&G Investments, have been announced.

Bob Sweet, Head of Shows Development of RHS Chelsea Flower Show, said: “As the world’s most famous flower show, our awards celebrate best in class gardens,

Wales and Duchess of Cornwall.

designers and horticulture.”

Celebrities visiting the show included Cliff Richard, Piers Morgan, Jerry Hall, Amanda Holden, Joan Collins, Ringo Starr, Michael Caine and his wife Shakira and Roger Daltrey.

You voted in your tens of thousands - and congratulations to RHS People’s Choice awardwinners the Arthritis Research UK garden (Show garden) and The Brontës’ Yorkshire Garden (Small gardens).The RHS People’s Choice Awards - the only Chelsea awards voted for

The award and medal winners at the RHS Chelsea Flower

by the public - is awarded to the show garden that takes the most public votes, as well as one award for the favourite small garden from the Fresh, Artisan and Generation garden categories.

It was a double celebration for designer Cleve West - winner of Best Show Garden for

the second successive year with Brewin Dolphin. Cleve West MSGD took the highly sought-after ‘Best in Show’ Award for a spectacular topiary garden for Brewin Dolphin on Chelsea’s Main Avenue.

Meanwhile TV gardener Joe Swift celebrated gold with his first show garden, the Homebase Teenage Cancer Trust garden.

Best Artisan Garden was Ishihara Kazuyuki’s gorgeously tranquil Satoyama Life and heading up the newly-created Fresh Garden category was Easigrass’ Green with…

Most Creative Fresh garden was Humko Bled’s The Soft Machine Plant of the Year is Foxglove Digitalis Illumination Pink (‘Tmdgfp001’), from Thompson & Morgan and shown in the Pulham Garden Crafts Bee Up Front Garden, is RHS Plant of the Year 2012.

The winner of RHS Chelsea Flower Show 2012 Product of the Year is the Harrod Slot & Lock framework building system by Harrod Horticultural. Sparsholt College was voted Best Exhibit in the new RHS Environment section of the Great Pavilion, and RHS Young Chelsea Florist of the Year is Joseph Massie, of Springbank. and Linda Porrett created the Best Floral Arrangement (Session 1).

All in all it was a very successful week for the glorious RHS Chelsea Flower Show, one of the highlights of the British social season. It will be interesting to see how they outdo themselves next year! www.rhs.org.uk

JUNE2012 33

DIAMOND JUBILEE

Let the Celebrations Commence!

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II marked her Diamond Jubilee, celebrating 60 years on the throne, with a four-day weekend of events, between Saturday 2nd and Tuesday 5th June 2012.

For only the second time in its history the UK celebrates the Diamond Jubilee of a monarch.

34 JUNE2012

DIAMOND JUBILEE

At Windsor Castle, 21 mini cannons were fired to mark the start of the Diamond Jubilee weekend. In London The King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery, fired a 41-gun salute.

It followed the Major General’s Parade, which drew large crowds to Horse Guard’s Parade.

After the parade 72 horses and six First World War era 13-pounder gun carriages passed along Horse Guard’s Parade for the salute, which started at 1pm, lasting just over seven minutes. The Coronation Gun salute is normally fired from Green Park, but Horse Guards Parade was used as part of a series of public events in the Royal Parks to mark the Diamond Jubilee. Similar 21gun salutes were also carried out at Edinburgh Castle, Cardiff THE EPSOM DERBY On Saturday 2nd June, The Queen marked the start of her Diamond Jubilee weekend by driving onto the racecourse at Epsom Derby with racegoers cheering as the Royal

motorcade reached the winning post. six featured races, but watched red hot favourite Camelot win Katherine Jenkins sang the National the classic event by five lengths.

The royals were treated to a gala anthem as the Queen climbed out performance by the 8-13 favourite of her car to join around 130,000 people at Epsom Racecourse. Many horse, who also won this year’s 2,000 Guineas race. of the spectators waved Union flags and lined the Queen’s route into the The royals were also treated to stand, named in her honour, and an aerial display by members of opened by the monarch in 1992. the British Army’s Red Devils parachute team before the main The Queen, wearing royal blue, was event - the racing - began. This year, accompanied by two of her sons, The Earl of Wessex and the Duke of the Jubilee celebrations created an extra air of excitement, despite the York, and granddaughters, Princess grey and drizzly conditions.

Beatrice and Princess Eugenie.

Also joining the Queen in her royal THE THAMES DIAMOND box was Sophie, the Countess of JUBILEE PAGEANT Wessex, the Duke and Duchess of Gloucester, and Prince and Princess On Sunday 3rd June, the Thames Diamond Jubilee Pageant, saw a Michael of Kent. flotilla of tugs, steamers, pleasure Demonstrating her lifelong passion cruisers, dragon boats and kayaks for horses, The Queen rarely misses escort Queen Elizabeth II and attending the Epsom Derby, which the Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Charles and Camilla, the Duke and is one of the highlights of the Duchess of Cornwall, Prince Harry, racing calendar. Unlike last year, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge the Queen does not have a horse and Prince William, Duke of entered in the Derby, or the other

Cambridge on board a specially decorated royal barge, the Spirit of Chartwell, decorated with 10,000 flowers from the royal estates.

More than one million spectators lined the route to cheer everyone on, entering into the spirit and celebrations. The cold, the wind and the rain had not detered the millions across the UK from their street parties – and it was not going to deter Her Majesty from enjoying the pageant on the Thames, either.

The pageant - believed to be the Thames’s most spectacular in 350 years - started at Albert Bridge with the ringing of Jubilee bells at 2:40pm BST and ended as the last vessel completed the seven-mile route to Tower Bridge just after 6pm BST. A boat carrying eight specially-cast Jubilee bells led the water-borne procession, with churches along the river bank returning the peal as it passed. There were 10 musical barges, carrying choirs and orchestras.

Leading the rowing boats was the million-pound row barge Gloriana,

JUNE2012 35

DIAMOND JUBILEE

with Olympic gold medallists Sir Matthew Pinsent and Sir Steve Redgrave among its 18 rowers.A collection of small ships used to rescue stranded troops from the beaches of Dunkirk in 1940 also took part, led by the Motor Torpedo boat 102, the flagship of the officer who co-ordinated the evacuation.

of the star-studded concert that evening. The palace grounds were filled with ballot winners, who had won tickets to the evening show.

But first they were to enjoy a sumptuous picnic filled with a menu created by the combined culinary skills of celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal and the Queen’s royal chef, Mark Some 20,000 people were thought Flanagan. Blumenthal is famous for to have been in the boats of the his scientific approach to cooking, flotilla, which travelled at 4 knots while Mr Flanagan and his team (4.6 mph), with the Thames barrier specialise in scale and catered for the closed to slow the river’s flow. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge’s Guinness World Records said the wedding last year. The palace is used pageant had set a new world record to hosting large garden parties, and for the largest parade of boats, easily accommodated the 12,000 surpassing the previous record of 327 guests – 10,000 of whom were ballot in Bremerhaven, Germany, last year. winners and 2,000 from charities associated with the Royal Family.

Prince Phillip was sadly absent for Monday and Tuesday’s In bright summer sunshine, the celebrations after being taken to picnickers sat on the Queen’s lawn hospital with an infection, we and opened their wicker baskets, wish him a speedy recovery. which contained tea-smoked Scottish salmon, a modern take on coronation THE DIAMOND chicken and Sandringham strawberry JUBILEE PICNIC crumble crunch. There were also two It was the most regal of picnics, cupcakes and a small cheeseboard thousands of guests sat down to a with biscuits and chutney, among feast in the gardens of Buckingham other items. The food was washed Palace on Monday 4th June, ahead down with a selection of drinks –

36 JUNE2012

Moët & Chandon champagne, Cobra beer and Hildon’s water. Chefs from Waitrose worked with Blumenthal and Mr Flanagan in developing the menu, which was delivered by a convoy of eight articulated lorries.

The perfectly manicured lawns of Buckingham Palace are normally deserted. Stretching across 40 acres, the neat grassland gives the royal residence its feeling of quietude and serenity. But the Queen’s back yard underwent a transformation as the thousands of concert-goers trooped through the gardens chatting and laughing, ready to party. Heston Blumenthal said the menu was tasted by the Royal Family, who gave their seal of approval at each stage.He said it was an honour to have been chosen.

“My name is a lot more exotic than I am. I’m British. I’m proud to be British, and I’m proud of the Royal Family. They have done so much work for the country, and that should be noted.“When you look back over the Queen’s reign, Britain has changed so much in the past 60 years. We have come on culturally in terms of music and films, but one area that had lagged behind was food, but all that has changed in the last five years. We

now have a great culinary tradition.”

THE DIAMOND JUBILEE CONCERT The show went on for the star-studded Diamond Jubilee Concert on Monday 4th June. Crowds gathered and waved their Union Jack flag on The Mall during the three hour concert, attended by 12,000 ticket holders, with thousands more spectators lining the length of The Mall.

Robbie Williams opened the concert with “Let me Entertain you”, Gary Barlow and the Commonwealth band performed the official Diamond Jubilee song “Sing” on stage during the Diamond Jubilee concert. Sir Elton John performed a number of songs including a soulful reading of Your Song and the legendary Dame Shirley Bassey sang of course, “Diamonds are Forever”. Jessie J, Sir Tom Jones, Stevie Wonder, Sir Cliff Richard all performed and singer Grace Jones hula-hooped her way through Slave To The Rhythm.

Madness literally raised the roof by performing on the roof and turning the Queen’s house, Buckingham Palace, into their very own terraced street thanks to some amazing visuals.

DIAMOND JUBILEE

Viewers watched on in awe as the band took to the roof to sing some of their classic hits accompanied by the creative light show, singing ‘Our house, in the middle of One’s street’: The Queen opted not to watch the first half of the concert, arriving in the royal box at 9pm. However, she disclosed that she had been watching the show on television just a stone’s throw away in her rooms at the Palace. Musician Sir Paul McCartney drew the Buckingham Palace Concert to a close. The former Beatle proved one of the highlights, watched by 17 million, the BBC’s peak viewing figure, as he closed the show with a medley of hits, with a crowd participation version of Ob-La-Di, Ob-LaDa, after singing his historic song “Let it Be”. Just hours later, it emerged that he would be back in the spotlight “closing the opening” of London 2012 on 27th July.

“What a night,” Barlow wrote on Twitter, “It’s going to have to be something special to beat that one.

Amazing artists and performances.

Incredible audience and atmosphere.”

But Danny Boyle, artistic director

of the Olympics opening ceremony, proved that he was not to be outdone.

Perhaps mindful of the competition, he was one step ahead, having already snapped up Sir Paul McCartney for his own extravaganza. “I’ve been booked”, the 69-year-old confirmed.

Prince Charles then made an emotional speech to ‘Your Majesty… mummy’ ‘for making us proud to be British’ and the sky was lit up by an incredible fireworks display, illuminating the Queen Victoria monument after the Diamond Jubilee concert. Shortly after 10.30pm, The Queen laced a cut glass diamond into a wooden cradle, completing the ceremony that lit the National Beacon, the centrepiece of more than 4,000 stretching across the United Kingdom and the world.

The pageant master Bruno Peek, thanked her on behalf of “the nation, the Commonwealth, her realms and territories”. “God Bless you ma’am”, he added. After lighting the national beacon the Queen took time to meet the stars of the show backstage, greeting the band Madness, who had performed on the roof of Buckingham Palace, she was asked by lead singer Suggs:

“I was wondering if I could have your Cup Final tickets?” The comment, which was taken in good spirit, was in tribute to the late comedian Tommy Cooper, who cheekily asked the same question when he met the Queen following a Royal Variety Performance.

THE DIAMOND JUBILEE ROYAL PROCESSION On Tuesday 5th June, the Diamond Jubilee celebrations continued with a Service of thanksgiving at St Paul’s Cathedral. . The royal entourage arrived to cheers and flag waving, while chants of God Save The Queen broke out spontaneously when trumpets announced her arrival. The service was led by the Archbishop of Canterbury who praised the Queen for dedicating herself to the service of her nation and the Commonwealth.

And then, after a Mansion House reception, it was time for the Carriage procession back to Buckingham Palace. There, the Queen, her eldest son and daughter-in-law, her two grandsons and granddaughter-in-law watched from the balcony as the Red Arrows

flew past streaming red, white and blue smoke trails from their Hawk jets. It was a fitting end to a truly momentous occasion.

The Queen has said she has been “deeply touched” by the Diamond Jubilee celebrations and has thanked everyone involved for what she called a “humbling experience”.

The comments, in a special video message, came at the end of four days of festivities which drew hundreds of thousands of wellwishers to Buckingham Palace.

All over the weekend young and old, families and friends, displayed their bunting and union flags, tucked into cucumber sandwiches, pork pies and endless cake at street parties across the country celebrating the Queen’s reign. The world has been reminded that, whatever the weather, nobody does pageantry quite like Britain, and put on such a spectacular show.

The celebrations will continue as we look forward to the London 2012 Olympics & Paralympics next month, and again be proud to be British.

LONG MAY IT CONTINUE.

JUNE2012 37

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FEATURE

Les Cooper

A PERFECT HARMONY

Between the Elegance of Pianos & Technology emember those old player pianos with the paper rolls; well in 2012 you can have your own piano converted to play itself by wireless control from an iPad! One of just a handful of specialists in the UK, Les Cooper at J&L Piano Services has been converting pianos since 1997 and installs player and silent units for manufacturers such as Steinway & Sons, leading piano dealers and celebrity owners across the country and abroad.

New technology means it’s possible to convert almost any piano to play itself, with iTunes for track management, creating your own playlists and adding new music has never been easier.

With a tap on the touch screen the piano can be controlled from anywhere in your home, this wireless feature also makes it perfect for hotels, restaurants and other venues where operation can be remotely controlled. Clients can create their own playlists for 40 JUNE2012

perhaps a dinner party and your own invisible pianist will happily play all evening, in selected order, repeat or shuffle mode.

BRING YOUR PIANO TO LIFE WITH PIANODISC

Much of our work is with local piano dealers, so if you are looking Our most popular package for a piano already equipped with a includes an iPad pre-loaded with system or would like to choose an $1000 of included music this instrument for conversion, such as equates to around 550 tracks of the unique Perspex grand illustrated all genres; Jazz, Classical, Popular, we would be very happy to arrange Christmas and many more. The a viewing at a local showroom or an piano is equipped with high examination of your own piano for quality speakers for those tracks suitability. If you have a piano as a with vocal or full orchestral piece of furniture that’s not currently accompaniment so becomes played then bring your piano to life a complete with PianoDisc! entertainment system. With Would you like over 4000 tiles to practise your in the PianoDisc piano at any time library new in the day or music can be evening? Then downloaded J&L Piano can just as in also help, we can iTunes from equip your upright the PianoDisc or grand piano music store and with a quality can be playing silent system, play on your piano as your normal in minutes. acoustic piano

then at the flick of a lever your piano is muted and you are playing silently listening by headphones without disturbing others!

Standard piano sound, 11 presets and 127 other instruments with variations such as electric piano and church organ. With onboard metronome and record feature it’s an ideal learning tool for piano teachers and pupils, using the Midi in/out features you can use your piano as a midi controller to connect your PC or Mac with appropriate software to compose, orchestrate or even print music.

J&L are based in Middlesex but cover all sounding areas including Hertfordshire. Please do call Les for more details and a quotation.

For more information about J&L Piano Services, Queens Walk, South Ruislip, Middlesex, HA4 0LT, call 020 8841 0239 or email les@jlpianoservices.co.uk alternatively you can visit the website at www.jlpianoservices.co.uk

Make Your Piano Smart, give it an iQ !

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PianoDisc is the leading retrofit player piano system, and iQ the ultimate player technology, using iTunes via iPad, iPod or USB/SD player Our popular iQ iPad Air offers best value with over 550 music tracks in the preloaded iPad all included in the fully installed price.

Bring your piano to life with J&L are PianoDisc accredited specialists in retrofit player and silent systems in the UK. Most pianos can be converted with the system of your choice. Please visit our website or call for full details and advice on the best system for you and of course a no obligation quotation.

Practice anytime with a retrofitted quality silent system Featured model, Magic Star Pro silent unit, retro-fittable to most upright or grand pianos. Play as a normal acoustic piano then at the flick of a lever play silently and listen on supplied headphones without disturbing others, ideal for teaching with onboard metronome and record feature with Midi in/out.

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Package includes: • Champagne and breakfast canapés on arrival • Outstanding four course lunch with fine wines • Afternoon tea and pastries • Complimentary bar throughout the day

• Complimentary boat trip along course • Stylish feature bar, lounge and seating area • Live contemporary jazz • Complimentary head and neck massage

For further information or to book your table call 01491 832283 or email aimeejones@rhubarb.net www.rhubarb.net/henley

EVENTS

JAMES BEIM

“ The best feeling in the world” AUDI ROARS INTO THE POLO ARENA WITH ITS SPONSORSHIP OF THE INTERNATIONAL DAY FORMAT, CREATING A MEMORABLE POLO DAY FOR BOTH PLAYER AND SPECTATOR

T

he biggest spectator polo day in the world is held at Guards Polo Club in the heart of the Royal Park at Windsor. From this year, this historic event will be sponsored by Audi, the leading luxury carmaker. is company is no stranger to polo though, as it has been the sponsor of the England polo team for several years. is makes it the perfect partner for the leading showcase event for the England Polo Team – the Coronation Cup on the Audi International Polo Day. Last year, the sport’s governing body, the Hurlingham Polo Association, in conjunction with Guards Polo Club, celebrated the centenary of the Coronation Cup, which has been played at this most famous of polo clubs for 40 of those past 100 years. Even today, the Coronation Cup is viewed by English polo players, and indeed some of the most famous international names in the sport, as

42 JUNE2012

the most coveted event to play for during the English polo season. e England team manager Andrew Hine, who has also captained the England team on this day many times too, believes International Day has a flavour that cannot be matched anywhere else in the world. “You can play in the Argentine Open in Palermo, Buenos Aires, which for many is the Mecca of the sport, with the noise and 5,000 people on top of you; but when you play at Guards Polo Club in e Coronation Cup, and you hear the roar of some 25,000 people, there is nothing like it anywhere in the world. No event can claim those sorts of numbers, and when you get a great, close match, and the crowd in those stands gets behind you, the hairs stand up on the back of your neck. It is the biggest game in the world. We love that as players. ere’s no greater feeling.” e England team has dominated the Coronation Cup in the past couple of years, defeating both New Zealand and Brazil on the

EVENTS Club’s most famous of grounds – e Queen’s Ground. is year the team, led by the talented Luke Tomlinson, will be hoping to retain its clean sheet against a talented team from South Africa. is will be the third time that these two countries have met in this competition and the tally currently stands at 2-0 to the home side.

So no pressure for Luke and his team-mates then! But win or lose, Luke, who has worn the skipper’s armband since 2006 knows it will be a match to remember. “It’s always a great occasion to be involved in,” he says. “To play for your country, and to be captain, is a high honour in any sport. It’s always a great feeling to go out there and play in front of a huge home crowd. As players, it means so much to us.” e support of Audi at this International Polo at Guards Polo Club on Sunday 22 July not only guarantees to give the best English players the opportunity to shine on this most famous of days, but is also enabling the governing body, the Hurlingham Polo Association and Audi to create a platform of international events at other clubs around the country too. Audi has created an International Test Match Series – with England games at Cowdray Park in Sussex, Beaufort in Gloucestershire and, for the first time at Cheshire Racecourse too. is not only says much about the depth of talent and interest in the sport in the UK today, but also highlight’s Audi’s commitment to the oldest team sport in the world. e Audi International Day naturally becomes a late summer highlight of the British sporting calendar. However, to ensure that it does not clash with that other great sporting occasion in 2012, the London Olympics, the polo will be staged a week earlier than usual – on Sunday 22 July. Despite this date change, it remains framed around those other great sporting and social events - Henley, Wimbledon, Ascot and the Lord’s Test match and continues to offer two outstanding polo games – the Coronation Cup in the afternoon and a morning game – showcasing up-and-coming English talent. Of course this year, in honour of Her Majesty e Queen, the winners of the morning game, Young England v e Commonwealth, will receive a new cup this year – the Diamond Jubilee Trophy. Her Majesty, of course, is a huge supporter of the sport, having watched her husband and eldest son play and now two of her grandsons, HRH e Duke of Cambridge and HRH Prince Harry.

Although there is a new name associated with this event, some things remain very much the same. Pomp, pageantry and elegance will be very much the order of the day, with plenty of opportunities for visitors to Guards Polo Club to enjoy some of the finest hospitality available at any sporting event. is may be courtesy of Pink Food in the Guards Members’ Marquee, with its delicious lunch and afternoon tea menu or seated within Keith’s Prowse’s Chukkas marquee. Here guests have the perfect environment from which to enjoy a wonderful, relaxing day of polo, including a wonderful Best of British menu in honour of the Diamond Jubilee.

Meanwhile Chinawhite will be celebrating its 11th year at the International Polo. With hospitality options for both day and evening – or even a combination of the two, this fantastic, dramatic marquee can offer something for everyone. With leading DJ Calvin Harris headlining the decks in the evening, the marquee will become the polo party of the year – if not the decade. e Audi International Day has all the ingredients to create a polo day to remember. So whether you have an Audi invitation to its elegant lunch in the Clubhouse or planning a more informal affair with friends and family at the Club, there are plenty of opportunities to create your own lasting memories.

MARK TOMLINSON

To ensure that you and your family are part of polo history, book your tickets now to the Audi International Polo today. Call the Ticket Office on 01784 437797 or go online at:

www.guardspoloclub.com www.audi.co.uk www.chinawhite.com/polo www.keithprowse.co.uk www.hpa-polo.co.uk ■

JUNE2012 43

Conservatories and Orangery's Styled exclusively for We are a long established family run company turning our client’s ideas into reality.

Our reputation for service, and quality has our clients singing our praises, check our website for testimonials. www.4seasons-conservatories.co.uk Conservatories

Before you call anyone, consult our checklist • Over 200 designs available • Full baseworks, electrics and plumbing • Own highly trained installers • Full planning service • Internal high security glazing • Structural Aluminium roofing system

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Visit our showroom to see a range of fully styled conservatories Unit 25 Hainault Works, Hainault Rd, Little Heath RM6 5ST www.4seasons-conservatories.co.uk

For a free quotation call 0845

3701006

FEATURE

FARMYARD FINE DINING FINE DINING… ON A FARM? A FAIR QUESTION BUT THIS ISN’T A TERRINE ON THE TRACTOR, OR A SORBET IN THE SILO; YOU DON’T HAVE TO SIT IN A DRAUGHTY BARN LINED WITH STRAW; AND YOU CERTAINLY DON’T NEED YOUR WELLIES!

O

riginally the home of the Battlers Green Farm Bull, hence its name, is the new place to eat in Radlett. The Bull Pen in the Evening looks forward to offering you a warm welcome to a beautiful location, exquisite food, relaxed yet high service standards, and an exciting selection of wines.

Traverse the stylish terrace enclosed by glazed screens and box hedging with striking parasols, enter the restaurant and you are welcomed into the warm and inviting space of subtle neutral décor, oak furniture, a beautiful hand-built brick fireplace and stunning vaulted ceiling of natural timber.

and restaurants in both London and Ireland. All produce used is of the highest quality and has a story and provenance of its source and originates locally wherever possible.

The wine list is varied and is representative of many of the finest vineyards around the world and is perfectly balanced with the dishes on the menu as attested by resident wine merchant based on the farm, Jeremy Grice of Wine and the Vine. Whatever your taste or budget they will find something to suit your personal choice.

The Bull Pen is located at Battlers Green Farm, a 220 acre farm in Hertfordshire (yet still only 19 miles from Marble Arch) farmed It is a perfect place to go whether

by The Haworth Family for the you are celebrating a special past 50 years. Having been major occasion or just for some quality poultry producers, arable farmers time with your partner or friends. and award winning breeders and The food, most effectively described dairy producers, the farm retains as modern British, is inspired and some arable crops, rotating wheat intriguing with a menu created and oilseed rape crops but now

by Executive Chef Paul Quinn specialises in breeding cattle of who brings with him a wealth of the Blonde Aquitaine variety. experience of establishing fine dining Sired by the mighty Atlas, the restaurants and has managed the Battlers Green Farm Bull, the kitchens of some of the best hotels cattle are bred and reared on the 46 JUNE2012

farm and until now were only available to purchase through the on-site butcher, Brimark.

The care and handling of the cattle together with the dedicated home maturing of this high quality produce creates a supreme standard of home grown beef and The Bull Pen are proud to feature it on the menu as a specialty cut of the day.

Paul and Gillian Haworth have long recognised that the beautiful farm and rural shopping village that they maintain could offer the perfect location for a restaurant and have invested in a major refurbishment of the existing Bull Pen Tearooms over the past year to enable the restaurant launch.

The creative design and concept development together with the overall vision, and technical and strategic management of The Bull Pen has been initiated and managed by Sarah ShanahanMallows, Director of Operations at the Farm, and has come to fruition by working in close partnership with Paul Quinn, Executive chef/

General Manager. Their shared attention to detail, creative passion and tireless dedication has enabled them to jointly create this exciting new restaurant.

It is a lovely setting, whether it is a cold winter with the fire lit and the glow of candlelight, or a warm summer on the terrace with the baying sounds of the herd and the occasional call of the resident peacock, the quietness and stillness of being in your own little bit of rural Hertfordshire makes The Bull Pen a very special evening out.

If you want a fine dining experience of quality and elegance but with farmyard approachability, welcome, and price, is the place to go.

There is ample free parking on site and disabled facilities are available.

Contact the restaurant at info@ thebullpenrestaurant.co.uk, 01923 857505 to make your reservation.

Full details of The Bull Pen can be found at www.thebullpenrestaurant. co.uk. Battlers Green Farm, Common Lane, Radlett, Herts. WD7 8PH

COMING SOON in the evening the new place to eat...

This family owned business situated on a beautiful Hertfordshire farm has undergone extensive refurbishment to create a warm and inviting ambience amid natural oak, and timber beams. The Bull Pen in the evening delivers a unique blend of elegant sophistication with excellent service and an exceptional modern British menu featuring our own home reared beef and a full range of engaging wines.

The Bull Pen, now under new management, embraces the unassuming natural beauty of the 220 acre farm and rural shopping village on which it resides, whilst only 16 miles from Marble Arch, it’s the new place to eat in Radlett.

The_ inBull Pen the evening _ Launching 23rd June, contact us now and book your table 01923 857505 | info@thebullpenrestaurant.co.uk www.thebullpenrestaurant.co.uk Battlers Green Farm | Radlett | Hertfordshire WD7 8PH

FASHION & BEAUTY

A DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH A first class personal service from Rocks of Radlett At Rocks of Radlett we either buy or sell for you on your behalf your diamond jewellery that you either do not wear anymore or wish to turn into cash. Now is the time the prices achieved for diamonds and gold has never been higher!

We are looking for Diamonds in any shape, size, clarity or colour, also gold and silver items for our clients both here and abroad. So check your draws for old gold whether its broken, unused, or unwanted, hallmarked or not. We polish and clean your old items in our own workshop in Hatton garden to a new look condition at no charge, we can then sell them and achieve a much higher price for you than our competitors, many of our customers have realized double what they were offered from a retail high street shops or online gold buying companies for their items.

You will find a first class personal service backed up by knowledge and expertise gained from over 25 years experience in the diamond and jewellery industry.

48 JUNE2012

When did you last have your jewellery valuations updated? As the price of diamonds and gold is high it is important to have your jewellery revalued for your insurance company so you don’t get caught out if you have a claim, we can offer a valuation service at hugely competitive prices.

We also specialize in handmade jewellery and can design and make practically any item of jewellery such as rings, pendants and earrings.

Whether you are searching for something to match your favourite necklace, or have an idea for a design you want to bring to life, we can help. Perhaps you’re looking for that extra special engagement ring our personal commission service can help you to decide on just how to go about creating your own special piece of jewellery. You can also make an appointment to see us at our Hatton garden office and workshop, or at our Radlett showroom.

For an appointment call Johnny on 01923 853453 or 07976 902036.

Alternatively you can email rocksofradlett@yahoo.co.uk

CARE

CARING FOR YOU Personally, Practically and Professionally

FIRST CLASS CARE A recent CQC inspection stated that ‘People who live in Houndswood House can be confident that they will be encouraged and enable to exercise choice in and control over their lives, including daily activities and routines. They can be assured that they will be able to maintain and build contacts with friends and the community’.

the local GP practice. We very much recognise the importance of personal, individual and resident focused care. To achieve this, good communication between all members of the care team, be they nurses, carers, relatives or doctors, is essential.

Our person centred approach means that each resident is an individual treated with respect and dignity. Each resident has a named key worker and an individual care plan. This will cover their personal and medical history, as well as a record of particular activities they enjoy and any cultural or religious aspects of their care.

FACILITIES Houndswood House Care Home is set in mature landscaped gardens with a furnished patio and a fully stocked pond. The extensive garden is a delightful place for residents to enjoy the fresh air, they can involve themselves with gardening if they wish or simply relax and enjoy the peace and tranquillity in the seated patio areas. Views of the garden can also be enjoyed from the bright and airy conservatory.

Residents, and where appropriate their families, are involved as far as practical in the decisions regarding their care. Emphasis on all aspects of care is the Manager’s primary concern and, together with the experienced team of qualified staff, all adhere to rigorous standards with internal audits and checks. At Houndswood House Care Home we have an excellent working relationship with the partners from

The Home has two units, Primrose and Magnolia, both are tastefully decorated and benefit from bright spacious lounges with televisions.

The Home has large bedrooms some with en-suite facilities, most of these rooms in the home have views looking out on to the landscaped gardens. If two rooms are available in the same unit we can adapt the rooms to be shared with a small sitting room for couples.

50 JUNE2012

Each of our units has an inviting dining room where our Chef provides nutritionally balanced menus that are carefully prepared to ensure the best combination of nutrition and flavour for our residents. The residents and families are consulted on their likes and dislikes and caters for all dietary requirements.

Houndswood House Care Home is visited regularly by an experienced stylist. Other complementary therapies can be tailored to individual needs and the home is attended frequently by a qualified chiropodist. We have a personal activities team who ensures our residents can enjoy an active social life if they wish and residents can get involved in hobbies of their choice and take part in activities that interest them. The varied and interesting programme includes handicrafts, quizzes and gardening to trips out to local places of interest.

TYPES OF STAY Houndswood House Care Home provides care for people who need general nursing care and nursing care with Dementia. The Home has two units: Primrose unit has 25

beds and caters for general nursing care; Magnolia unit provides nursing care for people with Dementia and has 25 beds. Each unit has its own facilities. The Home has a team of well trained dedicated care assistants that provide an excellent standard of 24 hour care.

We fully appreciate the stress associated with leaving home to live in a new location, and are happy to accept new residents for an agreed trial period at the end of which there would be no further obligation.

PHILOSOPHY OF CARE We are committed to providing the highest possible standards of care. Residents will be treated as individuals and cared for with respect and dignity within a safe, comfortable and homely environment which provides stimulation and encourages independence where appropriate.

For further information and to arrange a visit at Houndswood House Care Home, Harper Lane, Radlett WD7 7HU please contact the Home Manager on 01923 856 819 or email houndswood.house@fshc.co.uk www.fshc.co.uk

HOME

AND

GARDEN

FURNITURE

Visit our new Showroom at: Battlers Green Farm • Common Lane Radlett • Hertfordshire • WD7 8PH Tel: 0845 234 2323 www.farawayfurniture.co.uk

CRAFTED

BY

INSPIRATION

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Stretch Mark reMoval USing carboxytherapy & cellUlite reMoval USing velaShape

DR. ARIEL HAUS Has Solutions To Restore Your Body This Summer

D

r Ariel Haus is an expert using Carboxytherapy and has used this procedure in his Brazilian clinic for over 10 years. In the UK Dr Haus has just unveiled treatments using Carboxytherapy specifically targeting Stretch Marks. Dr Haus’ Harley Street clinic already offers Carboxytherapy treatments combating dark under eye bags and these have proved very popular.

Carboxytherapy involves the injection of a small amount of carbon dioxide gas just beneath the skin’s surface and it delivers results by increasing the oxygen flow to the target area. Carbon dioxide is produced by the body naturally, and should not be confused with the potentially fatal carbon monoxide. Carboxytherapy is a popular choice for the treatment of stretch marks on the stomach and legs.

Stretch marks are often the result of the rapid stretching of the skin associated with rapid growth or weight gain (e.g. pregnancy or rapid gain of fat). Stretch marks may also be influenced by hormonal changes associated with pregnancy.

A minimally-invasive treatment that is virtually painless, it can be done in around 5 minutes. Following treatment the skin texture will improve. Between 6-12 Carboxytherapy treatments are usually required for stretch marks, all spaced one week apart. This is a treatment that is suitable for all skin types and involves no downtime following the treatment.

Carboxytherapy dates back to the 1930s and by using this additional carbon dioxide the body recovers from poor blood flow and in turn the body reacts by increasing the oxygen flow to the target area.

Another great summer bikini season solution is VelaShape. VelaShape II combines gentle light and radio frequency energies (elōs™) with mechanical rollers and vacuum suction to manipulate the

52 JUNE2012

Dr Haus has regular columns in UK magazines and is often consulted by manufacturers of leading skin products and brands to offer insight and his opinion owing to his extensive experience. superficial fat tissue layer that contributes to cellulite. The heat from the light and RF energies increases metabolism of this fatty layer and shrinks the size of fat cells. The mechanical rollers and vacuum suction act on the blood vessels to increase circulation to the local area,

as well as massaging the skin to achieve a smoother, less dimpled surface appearance. elaShape II offers a gradual improvement of cellulite in treated areas, firmer and tighter skin surfaces are also reported. 4-6 sessions are initially recommended over the space of just over a week. Maintenance treatments are done once a month.

Treatment is safe and effective.

Dr Ariel Haus is registered as a medical practitioner in Brazil, the United Kingdom and Portugal.

The specific non-invasive cosmetic treatments that Dr. Haus offers are: • Skin peels to remove the effects of sun damage and also to rejuvenate the skin • Treatments to address wrinkles and frown lines • Dermal fillers (bioplasty and Restylane SUBQ) to smooth out deeper wrinkles and lines • Skin treatments, rejuvenation and hair removal using eMax laser • Body sculpting, cellulite and fat removal with Velashape, the latest technology to achieve non-surgical liposuction.

In addition to his private clinic in Harley Street, London, Dr. Haus also works in the NHS and by arrangement is also able to see patients in Rio de Janeiro.

Dr Ariel Haus only uses non-invasive treatments and medicines that have been approved by the relevant regulators in the U.K. In most cases, these procedures have also been approved for use in other countries in Europe and the United States.

www.drhausdermatology.com drarielhaus.blogspot.com 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF 020 7467 1525

Beauty Beyond Belief Stunning Hair Extensions Micro Rings

Proven Results...

%100 Remi human hair

S afest Method of extensions Tangle free No Glue or heat Minimal shedding Undetectable once in Will last the longest Silicone lined for better hold Extremely soft and durable N o damage to the natural hair Different colours to match hair Free consultation and POA

before

before

after

after

Beauty Treatment Menu Traditional Manicure £14.00 Infills £18.00 Eye Treatments or pedicure Re-Resin £15.00 Eyelash Tint Luxury Manicure £25.00 Single repair £2.00 Eyebrow Tint or Pedicure Complete soak off £10.00 Eyebrow threading Polish only £6.00 (without new set) Eyelash Perm Nails shaped and polish £8.00

Bio Sculpture Gels

Minx Nails

Hands or Feet £25.00 £35.00 Waxing £18.00 Half leg £10.00 £2.00 Full leg £18.00 £10.00 Half arm £9.00 Full arm £13.00 Underarm £9.00 Shellac Nails Bikini line £9.00 Shellac and file £15.00 Hollywood £15.00 Shellac and mani or pedi £21.00 Eyebrows £8.00 Top lip £4.00 Fibreglass Nails Chin/Cheek £6.00 Full set of wraps £25.00 Back/Chest £12.00 Full set of tips £35.00 with fibreglass Full set of overlays Full set of tips with gels Infills Single repair Complete soak off (without new set)

Francesca Harris

Private home salon in Radlett Also mobile for most treatments

07795214481 www.beautybeyondbelief.co.uk

SU-DO Spray Tanning

£20.00 £10.00 Full body £10.00 £8.00 Half body £6.00 £18.00 Make-Up Day £25.00 Evening £35.00 Facials £25.00 Basic Facial £45.00 £20.00 Special Occasion Advanced Luxury Facial £30.00

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Get a New Body Without Surgery or Pain Fat cell removal without the painful surgery may seem like an impossible dream for women suffering with excess body weight. However, there is a revolutionary new painfree body sculpting solution called Ultrasound Liposuction.

It’s become the buzz word for beauty experts over the last few years and it is now available locally at Slim Body Beauty Club in Hendon.

Pauline White from North London tries a new body sculpting treatment... during her lunch break.

‘I was offered a trial by the boutique salon’s owner Elizabeth – I didn’t need to be asked twice.

I have already been seduced by its advertising telling me: “Experience real measurable, effective and long lasting inch loss with the new ultrasound fat reduction systems. The fat cells are destroyed leaving you with a slender and toned body and no surgery or exercise needed”.

So here’s my experience of Ultrasound Liposuction, during my lunch break.

My stomach was smeared with gel – the same type that’s used on pregnant women in preparation for an ultrasound 56 JUNE2012

scan to see their unborn baby.

In this instance, for me, I was hoping to see my fat cells gone.

The trained therapist at Slim Body Beauty Club focused on the area I had chosen for fat removal with what I can only describe as a massaging probe with four prongs. For half an hour my tummy was massaged with this instrument. It was a pleasant warm sensation and I certainly relaxed as the four prongs worked their magic.

However, for the next halfhour my therapist used another massaging prong, which felt like my stomach was being ironed. I was informed that this process was to tighten the skin.

The next day my tummy ached – as if I had done about 200 situps in a gym – but the results gave me a one-inch lose from my stomach.

In conclusion, my one-hour lunch break gave me time to liedown and relax, lose weight and it only cost me £20 for the first session. Now that’s a result!’

Opening Hours Monday to Saturday 10am to 7 pm For more information about Slim Body Beauty Club, 2 Sentinel Square, Hendon, NW4 2EL. Call 020 8203 1033 or on the mobile number 07578 823980. www.slimbodybeautyclub.com

HANBURY MANOR SUMMER EVENTS

EASTER CELEBRATIONS—SUNDAY 8TH APRIL 2012

Sunday Lunch in Oakes Grill—Enjoy a three course lunch in Oakes Grill with a glass of sparkling wine while enjoying the live jazz music for £37.50 pp.

SONGS FROM THE SILVER SCREEN AFTERNOON TEA

Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with a glass of sparkling wine and live entertainment for £30 pp.

MAY DAY CELEBRATIONS—MONDAY 7TH MAY 2012

Indulge in a traditional afternoon tea with a glass of sparkling wine and live entertainment of traditional Morris Dancers and May Pole for £30 pp.

HANBURY MANOR GARDEN PARTY—MONDAY 4TH JUNE 2012

Celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee with afternoon tea in the gardens, live music and classic summer games—Adults: £30pp; Children: £15pp For further information or to make a booking please contact the hotel on: 01920 487 722 Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Pre-booking required.

HANBURY MANOR, A MARRIOTT HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB Ware, Hertfordshire, SG12 0SD Telephone: 01920 487 722 Website: MarriottHanburyManor.co.uk

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Complete Local Eyecare WITH GRANT & GLASS OPTICIANS

e are an independent family practice with over 70 years of experience between us, providing a friendly, professional service tailored to your specific needs. Through continued education and training, we are committed to providing you with only the very highest standard of clinical eye-care.

comprehensive eye examination we’ll do much more than just determine your prescription.

We will do a thorough check of the health of your eyes.

We are now pleased to be able to offer Optomap® alongside your routine eye examination. The Optomap® Retinal Examination allows us to quickly and easily examine the back of your eyes Routine eye examinations are (the retina) without any pupil important regardless of your age dilation and without anything or your general health, and here at touching your eyes. A regular Grant & Glass we’ve got the latest retinal examination is important equipment to ensure you’re in the to check the health of your retina best possible hands. During a and also in the early detection of

58 JUNE2012

many conditions that can affect your eyes such as Age Related Macular Degeneration (ARMD) and Retinal Tears/ Detachments.

In addition, signs of other diseases that affect your overall wellbeing and not just your eyes can also be detected (e.g. heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension).

The digital image can then be stored so that we can compare it and monitor each time you visit for an Optomap® examination.

Retinal Examination is suitable for all ages – from children to adults. We believe the Optomap® Retinal Exam is one of the

most significant advances in eye screening technology we have ever seen and we would advise all of our patients to have this important Examination.

If you would like to book an appointment please call us now on 01923 858222.

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Learning to sleep naturally again with Hypnotherapy & CBT

All In A Day’s Change-Work

DIARY OF A THERAPIST It’s early on Wednesday and today I’m in my Radlett clinic. My first client is C...; she is coming in for her forth Hypnodieting weight loss session. So that my client doesn’t feel “too rushed”, and has time to adjust to some of the changes that have been made to her eating habits, I advised a gap of two weeks between the third and forth sessions. She tells me she’s “delighted!” She has now established the ‘Three Hour Rule’ which had been previously been difficult for her, and she feels “more energetic and motivated”.

She has increased her walking, and has been listening every day to the CD we made together, which has helped her to “keep on track”. A good session. She leaves with her new “homework” to read and tells me to expect a call from a friend who is keen to get started too.

My next client is a very different case. G... has been suffering from anxiety for many years. He had been finding the stress level at his workplace gradually increasing to the point where he could no longer face going in. He had experienced a severe panic attack, and his GP

had originally signed him off for six weeks. He had been told that the NHS would provide CBT (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy) for him, but after eight months he had not yet heard from anyone and was still unable to work.

Two months ago he decided to seek help privately and had come to see me for a free consultation.

We began working together using a combination of Hypnotherapy and CBT. The Hypnotherapy sessions helped him to relax and become

calm, while through CBT he was able to develop alternative ways of thinking that had steadily reduced his anxiety levels. He has just begun a phased return to work with which he is coping brilliantly. To his great credit, he is determined to keep up his self-hypnosis and “thinking exercises” so that he can return to full wellness as soon as possible.

The rest of the day includes a smoking-cessation session, and a consultation for a lady who has been suffering with insomnia on and off

H ypnodieting (weight loss) clients have “homework” to read between sessions.

words by

Paul Levrant

HPD DipH CertCBT CertSM GQHP MNCH (Lic)

for over twenty years. She is initially surprised that this is not going to be cured by me simply clicking my fingers and saying “sleep!” It is important to explain the very great difference between “stage” hypnosis and clinical hypnotherapy and she is now looking forward to her first session next Monday. I recommend that, in the meantime, she downloads my free relaxation audio from the website so that she can get accustomed to listening to my voice and simply allows herself to relax for a few minutes each day. After all, what’s the worst that could happen!

Off to my City of London practice tomorrow. A different group of clients, and a different set of issues to help them through.

All in a day’s change-work!

Paul Levrant can be contacted direct on 0844 736 1438 Or by email: therapy@hypnowellness.co.uk www.hypnowellness.co.uk JUNE2012 59

HEALTH & BEAUTY

‘Super’ foodS are not juSt to be eaten; they can make you beautiful too! by levanah reyeSWainWright

‘S

Feed your skin!

uper’ foods have long been associated with fighting free radical damage due to their high levels of antioxidants. We’ve been eating them by the bucket load in order to reap their anti-ageing benefits, and now beauty companies have harnessed theses ‘super’ foods to put in our skincare.

CoConut and Plums

Coconut contains a group of nutrients called cytokinins, which many scientists think can play a role in human health – slowing ageing and lowering the risk of cancer. A great source of nourishment for the body and the skin, it wasn’t going to be long before someone decided to add it to skincare and who better than world-renowned dermatologist to the stars Dr Perricone. His Get Super (getsuper.co.uk) range combines the power of science with the forces of nature. The Hyper Hydrator Daily Moisturiser (£29.50, Boots) with coconut water is a source of revitalising minerals and nutrients that quench thirsty skin, whilst reducing redness and relieving dryness. Encouraging our teenagers to start protecting their skin from environmental and lifestyle damage is becoming easier thanks to Elemis. New to their FreshSkin 6112 0 J jUuN nE e 22 00 1122

range is Super Boost Moisturising Serum (£18, SuperDrug, timetospa.co.uk) containing virgin prunus oil extracted from plums. Plums are a great anti-inflammatory fruit and contain powerful antioxidants, and this aromatic oil is rich in vitamin E. This lightly textured serum is ideal for when skin looks dull and lifeless and needs a hydrating boost, as well as protecting the skin from potential damage caused by exposure to UV light.

aPPles

While all apples are good for you, Granny Smith and the Red Delicious in particular contain abundant amounts of collagen and elastin for healthy hair and skin. SkinCeuticals Phloretin CF Gel (£150 for 30ml, skinceuticals.co.uk) has caused a stir in the beauty industry for its new serum-in-a-gel technology, with SkinCeuticals revolutionising the texture of topical antioxidants.

Phloretin is in the green skin of apples that stops them from turning brown, and this wonder product will effectively reduce the appearance of wrinkles, even skin tone and brighten the complexion. This superfood staple is also known for its beneficial effect on troublesome and sensitive skin. Apple Pectin contained in Omorovicza Queen of Hungary Mist (£46 for 100ml,

HEALTH & BEAUTY

omorovicza.com) restores suppleness and provides long lasting hydration, tone and revitalise in just one spritz. It seems that the old adage ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ really is true. lyChee and Quinoa

Lychees originated in China over 2,000 years ago and were reserved for the Emperor. The fruit was considered the most refined in the Celestial Empire and it contains high levels of vitamin C and the skin-boosting mineral potassium. Bourjois have created a super-formula with this ‘super-fruit’ with their popular Healthy Mix Serum (£10.99, Boots). This gel formula foundation available in 6 shades, also contains other super ingredients including pomegranate and goji to erase signs of fatigue, even out the complexion and revive radiance.

Considered sacred by the ancient Incas, Quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is a nutritional wonder packed with nourishing vitamins, minerals, proteins and essential fatty acids to combat free radicals and boost moisture levels. Cowshed Quinoa Hydrating Daily Moisturiser (£32,50ml,cowshedonline. com) is perfect for combination skin types. This lightly textured cream hydrates, softens and smoothes the skin. almonds and aCai

Exceptionally nutritious, high in flavonoids and great at eliminating toxins, Almonds are known to improve the complexion. Restore dehydrated skin with Dr.Hauschka Almond

Body Moisturiser (£22.95, drhauschka.co.uk). Ideal for sensitive skin, this body moisturiser is infused with almond oil and marsh mallow extracts to leave skin silky-soft. Acai Berry is considered the world’s most powerful superfood and delivers optimal levels of antioxidants to the skin. Jergens® Naturals® Daily Moisturising Body Moisturiser (£4.99, Tesco) is full of nutrient rich acai and fortified with 97% natural ingredients, to promote skin health and stimulate cell turnover for a visible improvement in moisture levels.

GraPes and tomatoes

Organic Grape Water, like thermal spa water, contains trace elements of minerals, antioxidant vitamin C and rich polysaccharides (sugars) which reduce skin hyper-sensitivity and possesses ultra moisturising properties. Ultra concentrated with this magical ingredient, Caudalie’s S.O.S Thirst Quenching Serum (£29, caudalie.com) is brilliant at soothing and hydrating dehydrated sensitive skin for an extremely natural moisture surge. The humble tomato has been touted as the secret to eternal youth due to its ability to boost collagen production and neutralise free radicals that damage the body. Harness that power with Yes to Tomatoes Deep Pore Exfoliating Cleanser (£9.99, victoriahealth.com). Powerful enough to combat blackheads and breakouts, but gentle enough for daily use, this effective cleanser includes a blend of the potent antioxidant lycopene naturally found in tomatoes to protect the skin from environmental agents that can cause clogged pores. j uNnE e2 20 01 1 22 113 JU 61

HOUSE & GARDEN

NO NEED TO WAIT UNTIL LONDON 2012 TO ENJOY THE OLYMPIC FEELING!

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ith the pre-Olympic excitement mounting, it’s the perfect time to talk about Origin’s new Olympic indoor pool houses. The company announced this bright range of packages to celebrate London 2012, and already some of these buildings are under construction, or well into the planning stage. Origin’s customers have taken to the four models - Arena, Marathon, Challenger and Olympiad - and many are already taking advantage of the gym installations, and choosing their exercise equipment, much of which is included in the high value new packages.

With an accent on healthy living our designers have built in fitness must-haves, such as a gym, swim jets and an exciting alfresco feel. And we have run our ideas past our own Olympic hopeful, swimmer Fran Halsall, who we are sponsoring up to the world stopping occasion.

Through the use of cutting edge technology and the finest new materials we have managed to bring in the four new packages at record breaking prices - and we have included many of the most exciting advances available to today’s swimming pool buyer. Temperature controlled pool and surroundings - of course. An exterior finish engineered timber construction. A wide choice of exterior and interior finishes and colours - so your new Olympic Pool House will match in with the colour, surroundings and fabric of your home.

with two 50 metre swimming pools and a 25 metre diving pool - one of the main venues of the London 2012 Summer Olympics and the London 2012 Summer Paralympics.

Olympic hopeful Fran Halsall is sponsored by Origin, and is ambitious about the pool houses - she wants one!

Catch up with what she’s doing to prepare for London 2012 by visiting her website www.francescahalsall.com

OUR PRESENT TO YOU...

We have even selected ten big canvas styles to maximise the look of your interior, featuring the sort of imagery we think will suit this truly life changing installation. You can choose any two of these with our compliments.

THE COMPANY...

Origin has been building indoor pool houses and outdoor pools for thirty years, and is recognised as the country’s leaders in its field. As the projects have become more complex, the team has always risen to the challenge, and delivered supremely designed and built pools for their increasingly discerning clientele.

Origin projects are always handled at director level, and their teams of designers and builders, many of whom have been with the company over twenty five years, are committed to their essential roles in what is a very exacting business.

Origin’s outdoor pools are designed by a structural engineer, and overseen OUTDOOR POOLS TOO... by a contracts director. Their role Origin has had such a warm response One of the ten canvases specially prepared for is to make certain the results are Origin’s Olympic clients. to the Olympic range that they have perfect. They look after every detail introduced Olympic-styled outdoor from filtration to waterproofing, pools too. There are four sizes to choose from, starting at 10 and heating to mechanical engineering. x 4 metre, and a host of options and add-ons to make your Origin is also respected in the industry for its unflinching garden life complete. Many of Origin’s clients swim in their regard for the choice of the very best materials – the outdoor pools throughout the winter too. Not because they’re finest quality mosaic, ceramic or glass tiles. State of the art particularly hardy, more that the heating makes it not only retractable automatic safety covers. The most beautiful natural possible, but really enjoyable - even when the snow’s falling! stone surrounds and edgings from around the world.

Like the Olympic pool houses, Origin is prepared to pay On the scientific side, Origin can advise exhaustively half your VAT on an outdoor pool for a limited time. on easy clean filtration systems that provide sparkling clear, trouble-free pools. The company can recommend WE WILL EVEN PAY HALF THE VAT! and fit fully controlled chemical dosing systems with Our entry style Olympic indoor package is the Arena - an 8 x ozone water treatment, and generally give tips and 4.5 metre building, housing a 5.7 x 2.75 metre swim jet pool, ideas for the economical running of your pool. and plenty of room for changing and gym equipment. All for Origin Leisure, Summerhouse Business Park, £132,000. And we will only accept 10% VAT on this design Harefield, Middlesex, UB9 6TH as an incentive for you to be the first in the Olympic race!

Telephone 01895 823366 or email info@originleisure. com for full details of the Olympic range, the new brochures, SO THIS IS WHY TALKING SWIMMING IS SO POPULAR! or to be included in future distribution of the newsletter Breathtaking events will be taking place in Stratford this NewsWave and Origin’s on line monthly newsline eNews.

Summer at the London Aquatics Centre - an indoor facility The best place to start is to visit the all new 62 JUNE2012

Origin leisure

the original indoor outdoor pool company

&

Your project.

From beginning to end...

Building perfect pools for over thirty years.

Ring Origin on 01895 823366 or email for our brand new brochure info@originleisure.com www.originleisure.com

Origin’s Olympic range.

A new breed of pool house with a sporting feel, inspired by the historic games.

JUNE2012

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h o u s& e HOUSE GARDEN g a r d e n

WINDOWS WITH CHARACTER

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he Heritage Window Company is an established family run business with over 45 years industry experience, and was specifically formed to provide a bespoke service to discerning homeowners who are passionate about retaining the original window style in keeping with the character of their property, whilst improving on energy efficiency, weathering and maintenance.

The Benenden™ aluminium window is the slimmest aluminium section on the market and has been uniquely designed to replace and replicate the original metal windows of period properties, whilst providing the benefits of modern performance glazing. .

The Benenden™ window can be installed direct into brick or stone, into existing or new timber frames and can be individually designed to replicate the shapes and sizes without compromise to aesthetics.

The ethos of the company is 64 JUNE2012

to offer a professional “without compromise” service setting extremely high industry standards. This is achieved by directly employed installation teams who work to the expectations which The Heritage Window Company set out and actively police.

The combination of a quality product range coupled with an unparalleled service has positioned The Heritage Window Company as the market leader and as such has attracted many prestigious projects. The Grand Designs team chose the Heritage Window Company to work with them on the striking Art Deco house, which is a true example of enhancing without losing originality, (link http://www.channel4.com/progr ammes/grand-designs/episode-g uide/series-5/episode-18 ).

The Heritage Window Company works on a consultative basis to ensure the client is informed throughout the process and the product

meets design and performance criteria. All supply and install projects also have a thorough site survey prior to and post installation which forms part of the comprehensive service.

The Benenden™ product range offers a diverse choice in glass design which includes various glass types and colours, Heritage Leaded Sealed Units to match the original Lead patterns as well as Art Deco and Georgian bar, providing authenticity to the original design.

An extensive range of handles and finishes are available to compliment the Benenden™

Systems as well as security options.

With an expanding product portfolio The Heritage Window Company now includes Bi-Folding Doors, French and Sliding Patio Doors, Composite Doors and Sliding Sash Windows designed as a direct replacement to box sash originals.

The Heritage Window Company is DGCOS registered as a founder member, which ensures a thorough warranty is issued on completion, giving peace of mind to the customer.

To summarise: • High levels of customer service • Quality Benenden™ product range • Skilled fitters directly employed • Over 45 years industry knowledge For the Heritage experience, call for advice and information on 020 8698 0055 or visit one of the friendly showrooms located at: Beaconsfield 01494 730400 Dorking 01306 880404 Sevenoaks 01732 461919 Website: www.thwc.co.uk

Picture perfect.

Fortune Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire. An exceptionally unique and substantial home set in just under an acre of private gardens with breathtaking views over greenbelt countryside. 5 double bedrooms, open plan kitchen/dining room, stunning double height feature glass atrium, lavish cinema room and gym.

Perfection is often claimed but rarely achieved.

fusionresidential.co.uk All enquiries please contact Debbie Williams on

01923 216 535

HOUSE & GARDEN

house garden

Grano

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design & build

rano Design & Build operate from their offices in South Hampstead 6 days a week, with their teams that are all local to their building projects, whether they be in the London or the Home Counties. All of their clients are able to view every detail of their project via their own secure client area, with full detail recorded at every stage by Grano’s building team members and their clients.

As accomplished builders of more than 20 years, their sole focus is to conceive quality, design-led developments in residential locations.

Primarily engaged in new build homes and the refurbishment of less ordinary period properties. They build modern and traditional solutions that are both sympathetic to their environment, as well as their client’s needs and aspirations.

Grano ensures that a project moves smoothly from concept to completion in the most efficient and cost effective way for the owner.

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Grano has specialized in bringing style and perfection to all areas the build process since its inception. They have a dedicated team of experienced builders, architects and designers who work closely with their clients to translate ideas into workable, successful projects. At Grano relationships are paramount and they pride themselves on giving their clients the perfect, tailored solution, working with them from their ideas to planning to build, with interiors and finish of another level.

Their build team and designers are able to follow very specific briefs, or alternatively can originate design themes to best suit their clients requirements. Due to the size and experience of the company, Grano can work to very tight timelines enabling them to take on projects that would otherwise seem unmanageable. In addition, they are able to support their clients in finding the ideal plot of land or property as part of the acquisition process, in order to

HOUSE & GARDEN

They build modern and traditional solutions that are both sympathetic to their environment, as well as our client’s needs and aspirations. create the dream space they are looking for.

Please contact their offices on 020 7624 7517 to arrange a free consultation meeting to discuss your building aspirations at your home or their London offices.

They build modern and traditional solutions that are both sympathetic to their environment, as well as our client’s needs and aspirations.

Grano, Design & Build 79-81 Fairfax Road, London, NW6 4DY 020 7624 7517 www.grano.tv

j uN nE e2 JU 2 00 1122 119 67

HOUSE & GARDEN

pro perty life

THE WINNING FORMULA FOR CREATING DREAM HOMES… FEW SKILLS ARE ACQUIRED OVERNIGHT, AND THE COMPLEX BLEND OF SKILLS AND TRADES REQUIRED TO CREATE HOMES BEFITTING OF THE PRESTIGIOUS LOCATIONS WITHIN SOUTH BUCKS AND SURREY, ARE NO EXCEPTION. LOCAL FAMILY OWNED EAB CONSTRUCTION, HAVE BEEN BUILDING THEIR TEAM AND HONING THOSE SKILLS FOR OVER 26 YEARS, AND THE RESULTS ARE THERE TO SEE.

W

hether you are planning an extension, a long overdue refurbishment, or looking to build your dream home, you are certain to need the right team with a proven experience for the whole project.

Established in 1986 by Paul and Julia Berridge, EAB remains a family owned and run Beaconsfield based business. With many of their original team still on board and a second generation of the family now helping to grow the business, EAB remains true to the principles, which have earned it a reputation for constructing homes of exceptional quality, to the most exacting standards.

There are now more than 50 examples of EAB homes throughout South Bucks and Surrey, and although no two are the same, they all share the quality of build, high class materials, design flair and attention to detail, which has become the hallmark of the brand. However, reputations depend not only on the quality of the product, but also on the integrity of the company JU 6 980 J U NNEE22001 122

and EAB have demonstrated over the years, that they can be trusted to deliver projects on time and to budget, relying on the dedication, experience and commitment of the whole team from the Directors down. Paul and Julia take an active personal interest in each stage of every development, from the acquisition of that perfect building plot, right through the planning and design process, to the polishing of the door knobs on the way out. As a mark of quality, EAB holds one of the highest NHBC ratings available to any home builder.

Creating a modern dream home, requires a unique blend of skills; ranging from the integration of the latest state of the art and environmentally green technologies, to the latest luxury kitchen and bathroom designs, all brought together within the graceful interior styling and traditional architectural elegance deserving of the area. It is the recognition of this talent, not unlike that of a conductor, bringing together an orchestra to produce a masterpiece, which has

led to so many commissions for EAB. There are two sides to the EAB new build business, including spec. building for private clients and developers, alongside the construction of their own developments, of which several are already planned for the next year. However, EAB has also remained true to the extensions and refurbishment business, on which they first built their reputation, now strengthened by countless recommendations from their clients. In this market, EAB has remained the contractor of choice for many home owners, some of which have used them on several occasions, impressed not only by the quality of work and high level of reliable personal service, but knowing they will always be on hand when needed.

Completed in February this year, a project in Camp Road, Gerrards Cross, is a spectacular example of an EAB home. The new property, which incorporates 7 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms spread over 10,000 sq.ft. of stunning living accommodation,

sold off plan when the home was but a few inches out of the ground; a true testament to EAB’s reputation for design and build quality. The new property is built to an ultra luxurious specification, featuring air conditioning and fresh air ventilation, a fully integrated computer controlled lighting and sound system, and a basement with a fully fitted cinema and wine cellar, all sited within over 1.3 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. A truly exceptional example of what this home builder is all about.

So when you are driving around the area, look out for the EAB boards, you are sure to see many more of them in the future.

Or, if you would like to know more about the company and what they can offer you, from a small extension to a new 15,000 sq.ft. mansion, give Paul or Julia a call, their door is always open, and they will always be around to discuss your very own dream home. www.eabconstruction.co.uk Tel: 01494

HOUSE & GARDEN

PEACE OF MIND

Now that summer is here, the last thing that you want to be thinking of is home of office security, but this is the time of year that domestic burglary rates increase.

As lots of people are preparing for their summer holidays, leaving windows open to cool down or spending time in the garden with your family, this increases your risk of becoming a victim of crime.

Another factor we have seen in some areas, is the switching off of the streetlights at midnight creates the perception that you are more likely to be a victim of crime. This is not necessarily true, but people’s perception of this can increase their concern of crime.

There are things that you can do to reduce your risk. Simple things such as pruning hedges, changing light bulbs in security lights, locking your back gate and shed, securing tools, ladders and wheelie bins, all can help prevent burglary. Fitting timers to lights and even radios in the home can give the impression that

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someone is home, thus deterring opportunist burglars. Most importantly, closing and locking windows and doors when you go out or retire to bed at night.

Having a professionally designed and installed security system greatly reduces the risk of your home or business being targeted by burglars. Not only will this give you great peace of mind, it can also help you save money on your insurance premiums as Insurance companies know the importance of having an electronic security system.

Detection Security Systems is owned and operated by Steve Voss, who has been in the Security Industry for 15 years in a variety of roles. The company is dedicated to providing the highest levels of service at the

right price to all of our customers.

“Our customers demand the best. We offer that to them as standard, because in my eyes ‘Customer is King’. The majority of our work comes from referrals and existing customers. They love the fact that we do what they want, when they want and still offer great value for money, for a bespoke, individual service – I don’t understand how so many can get this wrong” says Steve.

“Getting it right, ensures that we grow without losing sight of this” We only use the best products, mainly from British manufacturers that we can rely on.

It is not all about price, it’s about value and by ensuring that we offer great value, our customers continue to recommend us to their friends and family.

If you already have an alarm system from another provider, don’t worry, we can offer free advice on it’s suitability, take it over and maintain it, providing you with 24 hour service.

We can even monitor the systems for a Police response in case of activation. Police and Insurance Company approved intruder alarms are just a phone call or email away.

For more information about Detection Security Systems Ltd, Unit 13 North Orbital Commercial Park, Napsbury Lane, St Albans, AL1 1XB call us on 0330 330 5612 or info@ detectionsecurity.co.uk. Alternatively you can visit the website at www. detectionsecurity.co.uk

The latest products from leading manufacturers such as Sony, Samsung, Fisher & Paykel, Neff and Siemens are on display alongside ultra-highend brands such as Linn, Naim, Loewe, Rangemaster, Falcon and GE. Many of these brands are usually only sold through specialist single-brand installers, but now have been gathered together for the first time under one roof, offering the customer a unique combination of the very best products to choose from.

Zinc HT’s flagship showroom offers the convenience of free car parking so discerning customers can view the products at their leisure.. Once inside, customers are seduced by audio visual equipment and domestic appliances displayed to their best advantage. The sense of space and feeling of calm create an extremely pleasant shopping experience.

CUSTOM INSTALLS?

Meteor House, Manor Way, Borehamwood, Hertfordshire WD6 1QQ

In addition to stocking and showcasing the finest brands in home cinema and hifi entertainment, our experts

020 8953 5522 www.zinc-ht.com www.zinc-ha.com

also offer custom installs on both residential and commercial properties.

FREE ON-SITE PARKING

Zinc Home Technologies

For more info, please call 020 8953 5522

HOUSE & GARDEN

A PASSION FOR INTERIORS...

Ask someone what they most remember about their lives, and it most definitely won’t be things.

Instead, you will hear wonderful stories about what they have experienced. Central to these very human experiences is the home. It’s where you raise your family. Where you celebrate milestones. Where you live, laugh, relax & entertain.

It’s where you feel safe, calm, enveloped, connected. Your home is the heart you wear on your sleeve and the most visible expression of who you are as a person...

Gary J. Fernandez is always honoured when clients trust him to help create their homes. Turning houses into homes is his passion and the driving force behind everything his company does. For over two decades Gary, and his team have guided people in their quest for 72 JUNE2012

stylish, functional, fabulous living.

“It’s always been paramount to express my client’s desires based on a true collaboration of taste, need & most importantly budget” says Gary He has the vision to see the finished project, taking into account the light, space and type of building, and what each room will be used for. “When I view a building for the first time I don’t see a solid block of space, I see something more organic, with its own lifeforce, ready to create the clients vision into reality” The services include Design only, A Design and Supply Service, right through to a Complete & Total Refurbishment Operation.

Whatever Service you choose, the attention to the customers needs

doesn’t stop at the initial stage.

From first discussion through to ‘turn-key’ completion Gary is there.

“We pride ourselves on our attention to detail, and going the extra mile right through to our after care service. We will not stop until every fine detail is perfect” He said with pride.

Gary’s unique approach connects to his clients on a deep and enduring level, with one simple mission: To create a home that reflects them, and how they experience life.

‘I would definitely use him again’

MRS GILBERT, RADLETT

‘He was considerate of the fact that we had children in the house, making it easy for us to live through the process’

SHARON, ELSTREE.

‘I went away and left my flat in Gary’s hands. When I came back all I could say was ‘Wow’!’

VALERIE, FINCHLEY

Here are some very satisfied customer comments...

‘I was so satisfied with Garys work I have recommended him to 2 of my friends who are now using him’

MR BENDER, FINCHLEY

For more information about GJF Ltd call Gary on 020 8953 5374 or 07976 855 231. Alternatively you can email info@gjfltd.com

HOUSE & GARDEN

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Bartlett Tree Experts A Complete and Comprehensive Tree Care Service since 1907 For over 100 years, Bartlett Tree Experts has led both the science and services that make your landscape thrive. No matter the size or scope of your needs, our arborists bring a rare mix of groundbreaking research, global resources and a local service approach to every task at hand. Trees add so much value to our lives; Bartlett adds even more value to your trees.

Tree & Shrub Pruning . Planting . Tree Removal Tree Stock Surveys . Woodland Management Health & Safety Reports . Disease & Insect Control

For a free quotation please call your local arborist, Mark Davis

01707 649 018 radlett@bartlettuk.com www.bartlett.com

PROPERTY LIFE T H E

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CUCKMANS

ST ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE

Cuckmans, a magnificent Victorian style mansion of 9,500 sq ft is one of the most prestigious properties ever to come to market.

Guide price ÂŁ4,950,000 JUNE2012 77

HERON’S COURT Shenley Hill Radlett

Twelve new 2 and 3 bedroom luxury apartments set in landscaped gardens at the centre of Radlett Close to Radlett mainline station, within 100m of the thriving high street Secure underground car parking • Apartments available with storage

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SHOW APARTMENT NOW OPEN Marketing Suite 07534 594 504 Friday to Monday 10.00am - 5.00pm

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www.heronslea-group.co.uk

01923 604321

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From Cottages to Country Estates

FOR OUR EXTENSIVE RANGE OF PROPERTIES WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE, PLEASE VISIT WWW.STATONS.COM

CUFFLEY

£2,495,000

6 Bedrooms 5 Receptions 5 Bathrooms Double Garage Leisure Complex: - Sauna Shower Heated Indoor Swimming Pool & Tennis Court sole agents

BROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

BROOKMANS PARK

£1,775,000

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Amdega Conservatory Rear Garden Approx.

120ft CCTV Sole agents

BROOKMANS PARK OFFICE 01707 661144

HADLEY WOOD

£1,500,000

4 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 3 Bathrooms South Aspect Rear Garden Approx. 110ft with Heated Swimming Pool sole agents

HADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

£2,400,000

ARKLEY

5 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 5 Bathrooms Plot Size ¼ Acre South Facing Garden Heated Swimming Pool Detached Gym sole agents

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WHETSTONE

£1,550,000

4 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 3 Bathrooms High Ceilings South Facing Garden Approx.

130ft Single Garage sole agents

TOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

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£799.950

4 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Approx. 1,650sq.ft Rear Garden Approx.

115ft. sole agents

HADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

ARKLEY

£2,000,000

Approx. 6400sq ft 6 Bedrooms 4 Receptions 4 Bathrooms Rear Garden In Excess of 200ft Double Garage sole agents

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HADLEY WOOD

£1,495,000

5 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Premier Road Rear Garden Approx. 130ft sole agents

HADLEY WOOD OFFICE 020 8440 9797

LETCHMORE HEATH

£695.000

3-4 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 2 Bathrooms Rear Garden Appox. 100ft sole agents

RADLETT OFFICE 01923 604321

RADLETT

£1,950,000

5 Bedrooms 3 Receptions 3 Bathrooms Premier road Landscaped Garden sole agents

RADLETT OFFICE 01923 604321

ARKLEY

£1,095,000

5 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 3 Bathrooms 3 Floors Landscaped Rear Garden 100ft sole agents

BARNET OFFICE 020 8449 3383

TOTTERIDGE 3 Bedrooms 2 Receptions 100ft Rear Garden Garage

£649.950 1 Bathroom sole agents

TOTTERIDGE OFFICE 020 8445 3694

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

www.statons.com Associated Offices in Junefair & Moscow

FOR THE FINEST HOMES

Tretawn Gardens, Mill Hill, NW7 A contemporary four bedroom detached house that shows beautifully, finished to an extremely high standard. The accommodation includes a fantastic reception room for entertaining featuring full height bi-folding doors opening onto the garden, utility room and guest WC, family bathroom.The master bedroom suite has fitted wardrobes with dressing area and en-suite bathroom. A truly stunning property offered chain free.

Asking Price ÂŁ1,295,000 Mill Hill 020 8906 3055

Hollies End, Mill Hill, NW7 A truly unique family home which offers character, warmth and space.The lay out of this home offers flexibility to suit your personal requirements.With various levels within the property it has well proportioned rooms and stunning views across Arrandene open space. Mature rear garden with patio area and to front, a paved drive providing off street parking for 3 cars as well as a garage. An absolute must view property!

Asking Price ÂŁ1,100,000 Mill Hill 020 8906 3055

www.hetheringtons.co.uk

Associated with

in London since 1872

FOR THE FINEST HOMES

Ludgrove Hall, Cockfosters, EN4 Luxury two bedroom duplex apartment developed by Berkeley Homes in 2001 in secluded gated landscaped grounds on the very edge of the Ancient Monken Hadley Woods. Benefits include two en-suites, two allocated parking spaces, feature staircase with galleried landing, gated security entry system and own private garden area.

Price: ÂŁ850,000 Leasehold Whetstone 020 8446 5871

Jennings Way, Barnet, EN5 Versitility is the key to this five bedroom detached property providing good accommodation with flexible living space over two floors featuring a dual aspect lounge/dining room, fitted kitchen, bathroom, shower room, en-suite and five bedrooms. There is scope to use the downstairs accommodation for an extended family, an au-pair or guest accommodation.

Price: ÂŁ1,000,000 Freehold Whetstone 020 8446 5871

www.hetheringtons.co.uk

Associated with

in London since 1872

COPPICE END COPPICE WALK | TOTTERIDGE LONDON N20 A stunning grand Georgian style detached home extending to 8,875 sq ft. Having been constructed to a high specification approximately 5 years ago, featuring state-of-the-art home technology & a magnificent indoor swimming pool complex/party room with its hydraulic floor which allows this huge area, at the flick of a switch, to be turned into a grand 50’ x 45’ ballroom for entertaining on a large scale or for family living.

Drawing room, Dining room, Media room, Study, ‘Pedini’ Italian fitted kitchen/breakfast room, Utility room, Master bedroom suite with balcony, en suite bathroom, further wc & en suite dressing room, 2nd bedroom suite with en suite bathroom & dressing room, 3rd bedroom suite with en suite bathroom, 4th bedroom suite with en suite shower room, 5th bedroom suite with en suite bathroom & dressing room, 6th bedroom/office, 7th bedroom/ den with kitchenette, Swimming pool, Fitness centre & Party room, Landscaped front & rear gardens designed

by Kate Gould Chelsea Gold Medal Winner, Double garage, Parking for 15 cars, Gated entrance, NHBC

PRICE ON APPLICATION FREEHOLD

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TRETAWN GARDENS

ÂŁ1,295,000

MILL HILL NW7

A stunning newly built 4 bedroom, contemporary detached house in a quiet turning in the heart of Mill Hill. Finished to a high standard throughout & offered in immaculate order; this magnificent home benefits from a number of features including underfloor heating, Cat 5 Cabling, & a wonderful large open plan Leicht kitchen diner/ reception with full height bi-fold doors allowing the whole back of the house to be opened to the lovely large garden & terrace.

Master bedroom with luxury en suite bathroom & dressing area 3 further bedrooms Family bathroom/ Wc TV room /den Study Large open plan reception room Kitchen opening to breakfast room /diner Guest cloakroom Utility room Large rear garden Off street parking for 2 cars Underfloor heating Cat 5 cabling Eco friendly heat pump Sole Agents

020 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com www.godfreyandbarr.com

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ST VINCENTS LANE

MILL HILL NW7

ÂŁ875,000

A stunning, 2 double bedroom duplex apartment situated within the sought after St Vincents Lane development. Beautifully presented, with 2 private roof terraces. To the lower floor the 25� reception room opens out onto the first large private terrace, with stunning views, a good size kitchen/breakfast room, & a guest cloakroom. The second floor features a beautiful master bedroom with en-suite bathroom, fitted wardrobes & its own private roof terrace with incredible uninterrupted views overlooking green open spaces and a second bedroom with en-suite shower-room. There is also the added convenience of acres of beautiful communal gardens and the security of 2 reserved underground parking spaces & a gated entrance.

bedrooms 2 2 bathrooms both en suite Reception / dining room opening to large terrace Further private terrace off master bedroom with stunning views Kitchen breakfast room Guest cloakroom 2 reserved underground parking spaces Acres of stunning communal gardens Gated development Sole agents

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A stunning, newly decorated & refurbished 4 bedroom, 3 bathroom detached family house in a convenient location within a 10 minute walk of the shopping & transport facilities of Mill Hill Broadway. Offered in immaculate decorative condition throughout the property benefits from new double glazing, a stunning large open plan kitchen/diner, 2 further reception rooms, utility room, master suite with en-suite shower room & dressing room as well as lovely South facing rear garden with newly laid large decked area. The loft is accessed via a staircase which offers very good storage & could easily be converted subject to planning permission.

HILLSIDE GROVE

MILL HILL NW7

ÂŁ899,000 4 bedrooms 3 bathrooms (2 en suite) Lounge Large kitchen open plan to dining Room with double doors opening to deck Playroom/Study Guest cloakroom 90ft South facing rear garden with large newly laid deck Driveway Double glazed throughout Staircase to loft for further loft conversion potential Utility room Sole Agents

020 8959 9000 enquire@godfreyandbarr.com www.godfreyandbarr.com

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THE RIDGEWAY

A magnificent, 5/6 bedroom detached house (5081 sq ft including annexe) set back from the road behind security gates with a large rear garden on a plot extending to approx 1/2 acre with lovely uninterrupted views over Great Wood. The house has been interior designed and offers fantastic space including 3 separate reception rooms, a large kitchen/breakfast room & an annexe / studio with gym/reception & bathroom. Further features include a stunning triple volume vaulted reception hall with chrome & glass staircase, underfoor heating, Lutron lighting & multi room sound system throughout & huge master suite across the whole top floor of the house with dressing room & luxury oversized bathroom with walk in shower.

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mazing galleried entrance hall A with contemporary stainless steel & chrome staircase with glass treads Under floor heating Multi-room entertainment system Solid ‘Iroka’ bi-fold doors & windows Lutron ‘Graafik’ Lighting System Cat 5 points to every room Italian white handleless kitchen units with granite & stainless steel worktops Over 800 sq ft master suite over entire top floor Outhouse / studio with gym kitchenette & bathroom Half Acre grounds with completely secluded Garden backing on to ‘Great Wood’ Sole Agents

NORTHAW EN6

£2,500,000

020 8959 9000

enquire@godfreyandbarr.com www.godfreyandbarr.com

PROPER TY

Exquisite new home for flourishing Fusion Residential

completion in early 2014. It may be quick, but it won’t be lacking in typical Fusion finesses. Using the award winning Amara Lodge development in Cockfosters Road as a template, Warren anticipates a development of five or six luxury apartments boasting everything Fusion has left the corporate climes of from waterproof flat screen TVs in Croxley Business Park for the country – Fusion have recently made the the wet rooms, to prestige Poggenpohl boasting little more than a pub, a duck big move and the new address to kitchens and touch control air pond and a dozen or so idyllic homes. remember is Fusion House, The Green, conditioning and entertainment systems; Leafy Letchmore Heath conjures Letchmore Heath, WD25 8ER. no expense will be spared to turn this images of the perfect English village. plot into another Fusion masterpiece.

The move has added to what has While Croxley has been good been a remarkable start to the year for New and eagerly awaited for Fusion, the new home in the the firm with new acquisitions, new developments are also coming to picturesque Hertfordshire village near Aldenham better reflects the exclusive instructions to design and build homes market soon with the fabulous Murano House development, near the Award and unique service that Fusion proffers for private clients and some exciting development launches looming.

Winning Amara Lodge in Cockfosters for its discerning clientele, according Road Hadley Wood, due to be to Partners Warren Rosenberg, Nigel Most astonishingly, the company recently launched in July.

Henry and Antoine Christoforou. closed a deal to buy a new development Murano House boasts a truly unique “It’s more in line with the Fusion ethos” site in Dollis Avenue, London, N3 in position overlooking the 6th hole Warren explained. “We have grown at less than a working day, a feat virtually unheard of in today’s market. of Hadley Wood Golf Course. Each Croxley but the office at Letchmore of the six apartments has panoramic Heath is stunning, beautiful, it’s the Warren viewed the site, which was views across open countryside and is kind of place we buy and develop for occupied by one large family home, full of exquisite Fusion-style detail. our clients. It will set us apart from on a Friday afternoon. His partners other businesses. We offer a unique took a second look on the Sunday Prices will start at £1.65m and service, and now we will be offering it and the loose ends were tied and the two apartments have already been from a unique business base.” multi-million pound deal done before sold as a result of word-of-mouth teatime on Monday. A record? recommendation before any The new home is a similar size but it marketing whatsoever. offers something completely different He anticipates getting the development by way of style and elegance. And, going in double quick time too with Another development coming to nestled in the heart of the village, it planning permission hopefully secured market in July is Pennywell Manor in offers the kind of comfort and feel Fortune Lane, Elstree. This is another good factor that most Fusion customers before the end of the year, building beginning early next year with a project property that has had the Fusion look for in their dreamy homes.

LUXURY award winning developer Fusion Residential has built a considerable reputation designing and creating perfect homes, and now it has found a perfect home for itself.

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But there is practicality in the new HQ too. The property offers secure parking to ensure Fusion’s wellheeled customers – Premier League footballers among them – are afforded the discretion they demand while doing business.

marque of quality stamped upon it.

Sitting on a substantial plot and with views across rolling Hertfordshire countryside, Pennywell Manor has a traditional character feel on the outside with a contemporary high-tech and very luxurious specification inside.

The property boasts five double bedrooms, open plan kitchen/dining room, stunning double height feature glass atrium, lavish cinema room and gym and creature comforts beyond most people’s imaginations. The price of this amazing home has yet to be finalised.

It doesn’t end there. The Fusion team has permission to develop a large detached house in lovely Ladywood Close, Loudwater, and has recently completed a rebuild and renovation project in Radlett. Busy days for the team at Fusion.

Despite the perceived depth of the recession, it is clear it is turning into a super summer for Fusion Residential.

And it proves that creativity, imagination and attention to detail in the bespoke end of the property market have helped Fusion flourish like no other luxury developer in the region.

www.fusionresidential.co.uk

The best just got better Six magnificent apartments within a majestic mansion house in one of Hadley Wood’s finest addresses.

PROPER TY

BENTLEY PRIORY APARTMENTS UNVEILED AT LONDON’S LANDMARK DEVELOPMENT

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ward-winning conservation and restoration specialist City & Country has unveiled the eagerly awaited first show homes at the historic Bentley Priory development in Stanmore.

Offering a stunning selection of stylish apartments within the Bentley Priory Mansion House, potential purchasers now have a rare opportunity buy a piece of history at one of the most prestigious and historic addresses in the country.

The eighteenth century Mansion House, home to Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain, accommodates thirteen exclusive individual one, two and three bedroom apartments and stylish duplexes. Each apartment boasts a sumptuous combination of period style and elegant contemporary 92 JUNE2012

interiors, with access to the restored Grade II registered Italian Garden Terrace and the nineteenth century parterre.

Set within the iconic surroundings of the Bentley Priory estate, with unrivalled views of London, residents can enjoy the classic architecture of the past, whilst benefiting from the luxury of modern design and interiors. Its enviable location and exceptional surroundings provide the perfect retreat for those wanting to relax and enjoy a secure and stylish lifestyle, within easy reach of central London.

David Walker, Head of Sales and Marketing Director at City & Country, comments: “We are very excited to unveil the first phase of apartments at this prestigious and highly-anticipated

development. Our restoration and conversion work on this beautiful building has been carefully planned and carried out to the highest standards to ensure it respectfully reflects the history of this very special location. Inspired by the stunning views, important heritage and fine architecture, our team of architects, designers, construction professionals and craftsmen have created a range of magnificent homes, which offer our purchasers a truly unique home.”

The homes on the 57-acre estate feature a perfect blend of period style, original features and chic modern interiors. Bespoke kitchens with LED feature lighting, bathrooms of Villeroy & Boch sanitaryware and flooring including natural Travertine tiles, solid oak

rustic boards and 100% wool carpets create a truly luxurious setting.

Bentley Priory benefits from the London transport network at the end of the Jubilee line, and offers easy access to the M25 and Heathrow International Airport.

Prices for the first phase of apartments at Bentley Priory range from £670,000 for a ground-floor two-bedroom apartment, to £1.3m for a second floor two bedroom apartment.

Interested purchasers, looking to own a piece of history are invited to register their interest at www. bentleypriorystanmore.com.

TA K E YO U R P L A C E I N H I S TO RY

An exclusive selection of just 25 one, t wo And three bedroom conversion ApArtments, duplexes And vill As within the historic priory buildings exceptional interiors with an outstanding specification: • Luxurious bathrooms with sanitary ware

by Villeroy & Boch and Hansgrohe • Contemporary sleek-lined ‘Ballerina’ kitchens with integrated Miele appliances

noW open

Please call to make an appointment

• New floor coverings in solid oak rustic boards, natural Travertine tiles or luxurious 100% wool carpets

Call 020 8950 5959 bentley- pri o ry.Co.u k

• Existing staircases, architraves, doors, and skirtings retained and restored to their original glory

elegance and heritage unique living spaces in Stanmore

• Concierge and full estate management

prices from £670,000

PROPER TY

Edge House

ESSENDON, HERTFORDSHIRE

Edge House, painstakingly replicates the grandeur of Georgian era residences, but with none of the inconvenience of living in a hundred year old home. The property offers 10,000 sq ft of modern living and entertainment space and is set in extensive landscaped gardens of approximately 1.5 acres. It enjoys protected and panoramic vistas of Lord Salisbury’s estate, which border Edge House on 3 sides extending to 6 miles of the Greenbelt’s protected rolling countryside.

Set behind an electric gated entrance and approached via a

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sweeping driveway with 3-tier water feature to the grand pillared portico. Edge House boasts 5 bedrooms all with en-suites, 4 reception rooms, state-of-the-art designer kitchen with all Gaggenau appliances, indoor swimming pool with spa/sauna, gymnasium, cinema/ party room, triple garage, integrated cardio intelligence throughout and landscaped gardens with extensive patios.

The property is located on the outskirts of Brookmans Park, which is widely regarded as one of the most desirable places in Hertfordshire boasting a village

atmosphere, nearby golf courses, renowned restaurants, boutiques and cosmopolitan residents who occupy solely premier homes.

in its attention to detail, interior design and levels of finish it delivers a home that boasts a modern heart with a classic soul.

Central London is only 17 minutes by train from nearby Potters Bar (junction 24 on the M25) and St Albans is within close proximity, offering an array of cultural and leisure facilities.

Educational facilities are extensive in the area, and include Stormont, Lochinver, Dame Alice Owen, Haileybury and Queenswood.

For case studies visit our website www.lwdevelopments.com.

Built by LW Developments Edge House represents the pinnacle of 30 years work, both

£4,495.000 freehold.

For more information about this property please call Statons on 01707 661144. www.statons.com

E BE FO R

LandWanted for luxury homes & apartments

R TE AF

Land is in great demand in prime locations like Harpenden, St Albans, Radlett, Hadley Wood, Brookmans Park, Totteridge and Mill Hill.

The Land Office helps land owners negotiate good deals with developers and we can help find the right buyer and work with land owners from the very start.

Free Initial Appraisal and Consultation • Land sold to Developers There are many different approaches to selling your valuable development site each with different merits and pitfalls.

Our initial meeting can focus on the most advantageous strategy for your circumstances.

All matters are respected as confidential and your concerns and time scale are respected throughout.

Call us today and arrange your free land appraisal In many cases, land owners prefer our developer contacts to seek planning at their own expense so you can remain free from costs and planning expenses Lance Trendall

lance@thelandoffice.co.uk EXPERIENCE • INTEGRITY • ENTHUSIASM

01582 461581 www.thelandoffice.co.uk

PROPER TY

CUCKMANS C

uckmans, a magnificent Victorian style mansion of 9,500 sq ft is one of the most prestigious properties ever to come to market. Only one mile from the centre of St Albans yet set in up to 30 acres of private countryside comprising open fields and woodland.

The property was only built 3 years ago to the highest of standards.

ST ALBANS, HERTFORDSHIRE estate in St Albans with privacy and security providing modern family living with the peace and tranquility of the countryside.

GARDENS AND GROUNDS

Cuckmans overlooks 100 acres of greenbelt to the south and west of which 31 are owned by the property.

Beautiful beech trees line the entrance Just 25 minutes from central London, to the property with formal lawns, a located within easy reach of junction Victorian garden and fully stocked 22A of the M25 and junction 6 of the specimen shrubs. There is great M1 providing excellent links to Luton, potential for the new buyer to impose Heathrow and Stansted airports their own personal design on the as well as 2 miles from the Arsenal garden. There is a beautiful patio/ Training ground. The main line station barbeque area overlooking the 100 offers frequent 20 minute journey to acres. There are two beautiful avenues Kings Cross St Pancras. Educational of trees, one of lime running south facilities in the area include of the property, the other Chestnut Haberdashers, Merchant Taylors and to the west. The woodland is mixed St Albans Boys and Girls School. broadleaf and there is also a natural pond with a great number of wildlife.

This is a once in a lifetime Cuckmans very much lends itself opportunity to acquire what is to the horse fraternity. The current probably the largest private country stables are simple and work well for

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the current owners and their horse, Bacardi. A more serious horse lover would probably seek to upgrade the stable block and planning permission would need to be applied for. One of Cuckman’s adjoining neighbours successfully achieved planning permission recently for a substantial stable block. There is an automated water irrigation system and extensive garden lighting which is fully operated by remote control. There is also planning permission already granted for an indoor swimming pool complex.

THIS ULTRA-PRIME PROPERTY CONSISTS OF G rand Reception Hall M agnificent Staircase F itted Kitchen/Breakfast Room U tility Room C onservatory D rawing Room L iving Room S tudy D ining Room

S pacious Master Bedroom, private balcony, en suite bathroom and Dressing Room 5 further en-suite Bedrooms 1 Further Bedroom with Separate Bathroom 8 th Bedroom/Games Room D etached Double Storey Garage with space for six cars S elf contained 18th Century Renovated Barn R olling Lawns M anicured Gardens W onderful uninterrupted views Guide price £4,950,000 – Freehold

For more information about this property please contact Martin Gibbins at the Totteridge Office on 020 8445 3694 or email martin@statons.com.

www.statons.com

PROPER TY

ARKLEY VALLEY A

rkley Valley comprises of 3 exclusive gated homes of approximately 3,500 sq ft, having been completed to an extremely high specification by Saphire Homes Limited. Set in a gated courtyard in the much sought after affluent area of Arkley on the outskirts of North London.

LOCATION Ideally located within a short drive of the A1, the property allows easy access to central London, which is approximately 30 minutes by car or rail. The M25 and M1 are also close by

ARKLEY, HERTFORDSHIRE

as are all of London’s airports.

EACH HOME COMPRISES High Barnet, Mill Hill East GROUND FLOOR and Totteridge and Whetstone R eception hall entrance (Northern Line) underground G uest cloakroom stations are all easily accessible as R eception room with feature fire is New Barnet mainline station T elevision room/study (Moorgate approx 30 minutes and F itted kitchen/dining King’s Cross approx 20 minutes). room/family room Golf is well catered for with both Arkley Golf club and Dyrham Park close by and with horse riding facilities also available in the Arkley area. A wide range of schools including Haberdashers’ Aske’s, Mill Hill, Aldenham, Belmont, Lochinver, Queen Elizabeth’s Boys and Girls are all within easy reach.

room and store room (which could be fitted as sauna or kitchen) EXTERIOR Landscaped rear garden T errace Garage and or parking Prices from £1.475.000 - Freehold

FIRST FLOOR M aster bedroom with en suite dressing room and en suite bathroom B edroom 2 For more information about these B edroom 3 properties please contact Lawrence F amily bathroom/wc Henry at the Statons New Homes SECOND FLOOR Showcase on 020 8441 9555 or B edroom 4 with en email lawrence@statons.com. suite bathroom/wc www.statons.com B edroom 5 with en suite shower

JUNE2012 97

PROPER TY

BROOKMANS AVENUE BROOKMANS PARK, HERTFORDSHIRE

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his beautifully presented detached family residence is situated on one of Brookmans Parks premier roads within close proximity of the village shops and station with direct rail links into London Kings Cross and Moorgate stations (approximately 37 minutes). This impressive home provides four bedrooms, 2 bathrooms including luxury ensuite to master bedroom, spacious entrance hall and galleried landing,

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4 reception rooms plus a kitchen/ family room with French doors leading to rear garden. Externally, the property boasts a superb swimming pool and hot tub, southerly aspect rear garden, carriage driveway and integral garage.

ACCOMMODATION COMPRISES R eception Hall G uest cloakroom D rawing room

D ining room K itchen/family room G ames room S tudy G alleried landing M aster bedroom E nsuite bathroom 3 further bedrooms F amily bathroom C arriage driveway D ouble garage S outh facing rear garden S wimming pool and hot tub

O.I.E.O. £1,599,995 – Freehold

For more information about these properties please contact Andrew Crump at the Brookmans Park Office on 01707 661144 or email andrew@statons.com.

www.statons.com

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