Weybridge Life Magazine April 2013

WEYBRIDGE & ST GEORGE’S HILL LIFE

WEYBRIDGE LIFE & ST GEORGE’S HILL

ISSUE 40

APRIL 2013

w w w. t h e l i f e m a g a z i n e s . c o m

HAM POLO CLUB The historic Ham Polo Club is once again gearing up for the exciting summer season. 2013 is looking to be a busy year with several new fixtures.

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THE BOAT RACE HIGHLIGHTS

PLUS

BMW PGA CHAMPIONSHIPS AT WENTWORTH ROYAL WINDSOR SHOW HAMPTON COURT PALACE FESTIVAL

16 PAGE SUPPLEMENT

LOCAL LIFE | HISTORY | EVENTS | WALKS | BEAUTY | HOME INTEREST

30 Church Street, Weybridge, Surrey. KT13 8DX • Tel - 01932 848 428 • e-mail weybridge@clivechristianinteriors.com • WWW.CLIVE.COM

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Welcome to our April issue...

The historic Ham Polo Club is once again gearing up for the summer season.

2013 is looking to be a busy year with several new fixtures. This year will see the return of the home edition of the Ham vs Cowdray Park games, a fantastic match with a huge amount of rivalry between the two clubs.

Also particularly worth looking out for is the Access Bank high goal day in June, the worlds greatest polo player Adolfo Cambiaso will be on the field with his team mates dazzling the crowd with their playing skills.

The European Tour’s flagship event once upon a time rotated on several of Britain’s finest courses, Wentworth being among them, but in 1984 it returned to the West Course and hasn’t ever left. It was a fine piece of matchmaking. The BMW PGA Championship, as it is now known and Wentworth’s West Course have been good for one another. Every spring this is European golf’s main attraction.

Many of European golf’s major champions have triumphed in this event; the likes of Jacklin, Ballesteros, Faldo, Langer, Woosnam and Olazabal, as well as eight-time Order of Merit winner Colin Montgomerie. It remains high on every player’s victory wish list.

With the European Tour having expanded to new international horizons, the schedule is such that the BMW PGA Championship now signals the arrival every year of championship golf in mainland Britain, and with it comes that buzz of anticipation and excitement. Wentworth in the spring is indeed a splendid place to be with this year’s event taking place from the 23rd-26th May.

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valid unTil The end of MaY 2013 PUBLISHED BY THE FISH MEDIA GROUP LTD, THE RIDINGS, WOODFIELD LANE, ESSENDON, HERTS , AL9 6JJ.

0844 800 8439 www.lifemagazines.com EDITOR Faye Manning EDITOR ASSISTANT Katie Miller SUB EDITOR Alex Lux FASHION EDITOR Hazel Englander ACCOUNT MANAGERS Anita Hill, Lynsey Saker DESIGN & PRODUCTION Emma Andrews ACCOUNTS/ADMIN Kathy Manning, Ken Fleet SALES James Marshall DIRECTORS Rory Smith, Patrick Smith

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Harrods launches luxury wedding planner service

‘Weddings by Harrods’

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ondon’s leading luxury store has launched a brand new service, Weddings by Harrods, a deluxe addition to Bespoke Events - Designed & Delivered by Harrods, a service specialising in custom-created occasions. Weddings by Harrods offers a complete bridal planning service, to ensure that every aspect of the wedding is executed with the style and elegance for which Harrods is renowned around the world. The team of wedding planners will see that each couple’s special day runs seamlessly, providing the bride and groom with peace of mind so that they can relax and enjoy the happiest day of their lives.

The beauty of this resource lies in the extensive range of departments and services available at Harrods, which provide everything required when organising a wedding, from stunning bespoke wedding dresses and tailored suits, to beautiful tiered wedding cakes and a team of beauty experts from Urban Retreat spa to ensure the bride enjoys the ultimate pampering in preparation for the day. Roja Dove haute parfumerie, Smythson stationery, Moyses Stevens Flowers and luxurious wedding gowns

by J Mendel are just some of the exclusive brands available to each couple through this service. Other departments include the Harrods Gift Bureau, the renowned Fine Jewellery Rooms and the store’s own range of elegant personalised stationery to use for invitations and

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place cards. Weddings by Harrods ensures the bride and groom have full use of these luxurious services and products wherever possible; making their wedding a truly unique and memorable day.

Each wedding consultant provides a personalised ‘handholding’ wedding package that is tailor-made to each couple.

Taking care of every element, the consultant will find the venue of their dreams, organise the showstopping design and catering with Bespoke Events and oversee all the finer details including favours for guests. Their passion and expertise does not just apply to the wedding day; the dedicated consultant will also organise the honeymoon in partnership with luxury travel specialist Abercrombie & Kent, ensuring that the newly-weds are whisked off on the most romantic of getaways.

Couples wishing to make an appointment can do so by contacting Weddings by Harrods on +44(0)20 7225 5805 or email bespokeevents@harrods.com.

Harrods, 87-135 Brompton Road, Knightsbridge, London SW1X 7XL www.harrods.com

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Cobham Mill

Celebrating 20 years of Sunday Open Days

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his picturesque early 19th century mill, is situated in delightful surroundings on the banks of the River Mole.

It is Grade II listed and is the only surviving fully working watermill in Surrey. It was originally part of a much larger mill complex that once stood alongside.

Its rural location next to the nearby weirs, the views over the adjacent fields and farmland, and the variety of local wildlife, make it ideally placed for leisurely exploration Although the Domesday Book records that there were three mills in Cobham, we have no documentary evidence that shows that one of them was on the present site. The other two mills were at Ash Ford on Cobham Tilt and at Downside. The earliest known written reference to a mill at the site of the present Cobham Mill is dated 1534 when it was owned, together with the Manor of Cobham, by the Abbey of Chertsey.

Since then, there have been several mills on the site and one, probably wooden, was washed away by floods in 1799. Two buildings were erected in its place, the larger being a 4-stone mill used to produce flours and fresh bran. The smaller mill, which remains today, was completed in about 1822 for the production of animal feed.

A succession of families has either owned or leased the mill. The Abbott of Chertsey leased the mill to Richard Sutton in 1534. Those associated with the mill through the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries include Sir Anthony Browne, George Bygley and Thomas Lucy who remained at the mill until 1787. From the 1830s the Sweetlove family was involved with the mill. In 1871 a Mrs. Batchelor was the “Master Miller employing five men and one boy�, and in 1890 her nephew, Thomas Sweetlove, took a lease on the mill. Eventually the mill was bought by Henry Moore & Son, the last owners to operate the mill commercially.

By 1928 milling ceased due to the competition from roller mills situated at the ports through which grain from the U.S.A. and Canada was being imported. The larger of the two mills was badly damaged during the Second World War when a Canadian tank ran into it. In 1953 this part of the mill complex was demolished

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completely so that Mill Road could be widened.

Throughout the 1980s several attempts were made to have the mill restored. The Cobham Conservation Group was particularly active during this time and set up a separate charitable trust, the Cobham Mill Preservation Trust. In July 1990 the Trust became the tenant of the National Rivers Authority, which was by this time the owner of the mill.

The restoration work, which was carried out by a dedicated group of local enthusiasts, including retired engineers, soon got underway.

This work was completed in less than three years, and on the 13th of December 1992 the restored mill ground grain and produced flour for the first time in more than sixty years. Since then the Cobham Mill Preservation Trust has taken responsibility for the day-to-day care and maintenance of the mill, the milling machinery and the surrounding landscaped areas.

The Trust organises the opening of the mill to the public from 2.00 p.m. to 5.00 p.m. every second Sunday of the month from April to October. The milling of corn is carried out during these openings, and a short video presentation about the mill and its restoration is shown at intervals. The mill is situated on Mill Road just outside Cobham village centre.

An auction of Vintage & Modern Wrist Watches

Monday 15th April at 11am

Visit www.fellows.co.uk/life for a complimentary catalogue Fellows Auctioneers | 19 Augusta Street | Birmingham B18 6JA | 0121 212 2131

London Office (Valuations By Appointment Only) | 2nd Floor |3 Queen Street | London W1J 5PA | 020 7127 4198

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Epsom Playhouse

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uilt in 1984, for nearly 30 years the Epsom Playhouse has been offering entertainment to suit all ages and all tastes. It is a thriving local theatre offering a combination of community and professional shows and events which ensures that local people have a venue they can be a real part of.

Situated in the heart of Epsom, many visitors will be familiar with the main theatre auditorium which seats 450 but there is also a smaller Myers Studio which seats 80 in more intimate surroundings.

The Myers Studio is used for small productions, lectures, meetings, the jazz club, the youth theatre workshop and a popular drama and dance school.

The Playhouse is committed to providing audiences with unforgettable evenings of entertainment. Recent highlights have included pre and post West End productions as well as major stars such as Lee Evans, Joe Pasquale, John Bishop, Tenors Un Limited and Omid Djalili. This season there will be visits from Marcus Brigstocke, The Ladyboys of Bangkok, Instant Sunshine, Jim Davidson, That’ll Be The Day, Claire Teal, Blake, Ballet Theatre UK, Laine Theatre Arts, Jongleurs comedy and Postman Pat amongst others.

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Eligo Bar & Bistro offers a tempting selection of freshly prepared pre-theatre snacks as well as a continental range of draught beers, wines and spirits. Interval drinks can be pre-booked to save queuing later, always a popular service! The recently refurbished Member’s Bar upstairs at the theatre is available for hire for private events, birthdays or after show celebrations.

Conveniently situated next door to The Ashley Centre multi storey car park and shopping centre and five minutes walk from Epsom BR Station, the Epsom Playhouse is also on a number of bus routes from Leatherhead and Ashtead in the South, Epsom Downs and Cheam and Sutton to the north of the venue.

From rock ‘n’ roll, drama and classical music, to dance, comedy and children’s shows, the Epsom Playhouse offers an eclectic mix of entertainment for everyone.

For a free copy of the latest season brochure or to book tickets please call the Box Office on 01372 742555 or visit the website at www.epsomplayhouse.co.uk.

Tickets can be reserved now using the Playhouse BOOK NOW PAY LATER scheme - just call the Box Office on to reserve seats, no deposit required.

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Escape to Claremont Hidden in the heart of Surrey and within easy reach of London, the green oasis of Claremont Landscape Garden is a delightful place to escape everyday life and enjoy simple pleasures with family and friends. By David McClenaghan

Image: Lake from Amphitheatre (John Miller), Below: images of Claremont Gardens by (L-R) John Miller, Sue Judd, John Miller, Stuart Cox. All images courtesy of National Trust

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nce the pleasure grounds of some of the richest and most powerful people in the country, today the National Trust opens Claremont all year round for everyone, so you can follow in the footsteps of princesses and relax in beautiful surroundings any day of the week.

There are many unique and unexpected features to discover, including the tranquil serpentine lake, large turf amphitheatre, grotto, Camellia Terrace and on some days the Belvedere Tower.

In the eighteenth century Claremont was among the most famous landscape gardens in Europe and it’s not hard to see why; many of the great names in garden history played a part in the creation of the estate. Over the years Sir John Vanbrugh, Charles Bridgeman, William Kent and ‘Capability’ Brown were all involved in putting their own distinctive stamp on the pleasure grounds.

As a result Claremont has always been gifted

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with stunning scenery, making it the perfect playground for royalty. Princess Charlotte was “delighted” to take the garden as part of her marital home, while as a child the future Queen Victoria was often to be found passing the hours running and jumping amongst the flowers.

Queen Victoria later described her time in the garden as “the happiest days” of her “otherwise dull childhood” and there is still plenty to keep the family entertained, from the children’s play area to the Thatched Cottage, a Victorian refuge filled with fun toys, games, picnic rugs and dressing up clothes. Who will win when you visit the 9-pins bowling alley behind the amphitheatre?

You’ll always find something special on offer, whether you’re looking to take advantage of the packed programme of events or simply wish to have a peaceful picnic by the side of the lake. If the Belvedere Tower is open when you visit then make sure to run to the

top, where on a clear day you can take in extraordinary views for several miles in every direction. If you’re lucky you might just spot a few well known London landmarks.

No visit to Claremont would be complete without popping into the tea-room. Tuck in to a tempting array of homemade cakes, breakfasts and light lunches or simply rest on the terrace with a refreshing drink, then browse the small shop to find the perfect souvenir of your visit.

MORE INFORMATION

Entrance to the garden is free for National Trust members or £7.50 for adults, £3.75 for children aged 5 and over, and £18.75 for a family ticket.

To find out more about Claremont Landscape Garden, visit the National Trust website at www.nationaltrust.org.uk/claremont

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Burhill Golf Club TUCKED AWAY IN QUIET WOODLANDS ON THE OUTSKIRTS OF WALTON ON THAMES LIES ONE OF SURREY’S MOST DELIGHTFUL WEDDING VENUES

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urhill Golf Club is a truly magnificent 16th Century Mansion House offering stunning views over the picturesque grounds and the River Mole. The mansion house is available for exclusive use, allowing you and your guests to relax and enjoy your celebrations in complete privacy.

Our main function room, the Barnes Wallis can be used for a civil ceremony for up to 96 people. This light and airy suite has delightful views over the New Course and the River Mole.

Fully self-contained and with its own lobby area and facilities it can seat a maximum of 104 guests for your wedding breakfast. For evening receptions your party may adjourn to the Iveagh Lounge and Honours bar with up to 150 of your family and friends.

An award winning chef and first rate service has earned Burhill an excellent reputation for outstanding food quality and overall presentation. Our attention to detail and exceptionally high standards means that you are assured of service that is second to none and a catering team dedicated to making your special day absolutely perfect in every way. Our extensive banqueting menus offer a wide range of fine cuisine, which can be complemented by wines from our comprehensive wine list. For your evening reception we have a variety of hot and cold buffet menus for you to choose from.

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Here at Burhill we have a vast amount of experience in hosting and organising weddings and are dedicated to ensuring that your day is specifically tailored to your unique requirements and desires. Our friendly and professional banqueting team will be on hand throughout the day to attend to your every need and make sure that your event runs smoothly.

From the initial booking enquiry we are happy to offer advice and guidance on all aspects of your day, from car hire and photography to table decorations and stationary, helping to ensure your day is specifically tailored to your unique requirements.

For further information on weddings at Burhill, or to make an appointment to view the venue, please contact the Sales and Marketing Suite on 01932 227345. Or why not join us at our wedding fair on Sunday 21st April, 11am-4pm where we will be happy to show you around our mansion house and introduce you to a number of our local handpicked suppliers. On the day we will also be extending our reduced package price offer to all 2013 weddings.

Save The Date Wedding Fair at Sunday 21st April 2013 11.00am - 4.00pm Free Admission See the mansion in all its glory and browse amongst our handpicked suppliers www.burhillgolf-club.co.uk 01932 227345 Burwood Road, Walton on Thames, Surrey, KT12 4AY

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THE BOAT RACE HIGHLIGHTS SUNDAY 31ST MARCH 2013

Oxford put in a dominant performance to claim the 159th BNY Mellon Boat Race ahead of rivals Cambridge

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xford University’s Blue boat jumped out to an immediate lead and held it throughout to win the 159th Boat Race, winning a sabotage-free Boat Race by a length and a half, constantly challenged but never beaten by a courageous Cambridge crew. With an estimated 250,000 people lining the banks of the River Thames in freezing conditions, the heavier Oxford crew featuring two Olympians from the 2012 London Games never trailed on the 6.8-kilometre course.

Sir Matthew Pinsent CBE is perhaps the most distinguished oarsman ever to compete in The Boat Race.He was in the Oxford Blue Boat in 1990, 91 & 93, winning twice but was losing President in 1993.In 1992 he missed out on a Blue to take time to win his first Olympic Gold with Steve Redgrave at the Barcelona Olympics.He went on to win 3 more golds, two with Blues; in 2000 with Oxford’s Tim Foster and in 2004 with Oxford’s Ed Coode. In 2011 Pinsent returned to the Boat Race appearing in and winning his first Veterans Race. He was the umpire for the 2013 Boat Race.

Having lost last year’s re-started race, the heavier Oxford crew won the toss, chose the southern Surrey station, and built an immediate lead. The Dark Blues completed victory in 17 minutes 27 seconds, their ninth win in the last 14 editions of the race, to cut Cambridge’s overall lead to 81-77.

It followed victories in this year’s reserve and women’s races for Oxford.

Both crews earned themselves warnings from umpire Sir Matthew Pinsent as neither could make a decisive break and interweaving oars came very close to clashing. But Oxford kept solid, their calmness helping them to creep a little further ahead of their opposition. The Mile Post was reached in a time of 3 mins 46 seconds where Cambridge continued to harry Oxford but to no avail as the Dark Blues held a ¾ length lead.

Cambridge kept the lead to ¾ length at Harrods and put in a big push to try and counteract the Dark Blues advantage around the long Surrey bend. Reaching Hammersmith Bridge in a time of 6 minutes 51 seconds Oxford fended off the push but still couldn’t make the decisive break.

In bracing conditions, Oxford, who outweighed their opponents by 757.6kg to 736.4kg, never trailed on the 6.8km course, but Cambridge remained in contention with a spirited performance.

Both crews boasted Olympians and returning Blues. Oxford’s Constantine Louloudis won Bronze in the GB VIII at London 2012 while in front of him at stroke was another man from the same Olympic final, Malcolm Howard, he won a silver in that one but a Gold in the same event four years earlier. Cambridge’s GB Olympian and President George Nash boasted a Bronze from 2012 while crew mate Milan Bruncivik, the first Czech to race in a Blue Boat rowed at the last two Games.

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Passing St. Paul’s, Chiswick Eyot and as far as Chiswick Steps the distance didn’t change but it was here that Oxford cox Oskar Zorilla pressed the accelerator urging Howard in the stroke seat to break Cambridge once and for all. Howard and his crew responded taking their chunky rhythm up two pips to move away from Cambridge along Corney Reach. Oxford now with clear water between

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themselves and the Light Blues moved across onto the Middlesex station, washing their opposition down enabling them to cancel out any advantage Cambridge may have had from the bend.

England’s oldest and most prestigious sporting events. With some spectators keeping pace on bicycles along the banks, Oxford found a steady rhythm, the crew raising their arms aloft as they crossed the line.

By Barnes Bridge the Oxford lead was just under two lengths and despite the efforts of Niles Garratt in the Cambridge stroke seat they couldn’t get back on terms, with Oxford’s lead at the finish 1 1/3 lengths in a time of 17 minutes 28 seconds. Crossing under the final bridge after the finish line, Oxford’s rowers gasped for air, splashed and lifted their arms in triumph, with Cambridge slumped in defeat.

The first race was in 1829 and the event has been held annually since 1856, except during World War I and World War II. The course covers a 4.2 mi (6.8 km) stretch of the Thames in West London, from Putney to Mortlake. Members of both teams are traditionally known as blues and each boat as a “Blue Boat”, with Cambridge in light blue and Oxford dark blue. As of 2013 Cambridge have won the race 81 times and Oxford 77 times, with one dead heat.

Afterwards Constantine Louloudis called it “one hell of a race” while Zorilla expressed what most pundits thought, that their “indestructible, devastating rhythm” was decisive. Sean Bowden their coach with his 11th Boat Race win under his belt expressed his pleasure with his crew, especially their technical rowing in the last third of the race. “ Cambridge threw everything they had at us,” said Oxford stroke Malcolm Howard.

“There wasn’t a moment when I think they ever gave up. All credit to the way they raced it, this is the hardest race in the world to be down in.”

Having accepted the trophy and attended to the team custom of throwing the victorious cox into the freezing water, The Oxford president, Alex Davidson, a loser last year, voiced his delight at his team’s change in fortune. “It’s completely chalk and cheese, it’s such a different feeling,” he said. “I’m very happy with the performance and proud of the result. I’m very proud of the guys.

It was so gutting last year, to lose in those circumstances. “It was harder than I thought it was going to be, I wasn’t happy until I could see Oskar’s hands in the air and knew we had done it. It’s such an incredible feeling. I’m so proud of the guys. It’s all been worth it.”

The event in south west London passed off without incident, unlike last year when the race was disrupted by a protester who jumped into the water and swam between the crews before an Oxford crew member collapsed in his boat after the finish. “It’s a bit different to last year,” said Oxford six seat Karl Hudspith, who was competing in his third straight race and celebrating his 25th birthday. “A year ago, I was carrying my friend’s body onto a stretcher. This was a real Boat Race.” Royal Marines were stationed in inflatable boats on the river this time to ensure there was no repeat of those extraordinary scenes.

This year’s victory cut Cambridge’s overall lead to 81-77 in one of

The course is 4 miles and 374 yards (6.779 km) from Putney to Mortlake, passing Hammersmith and Barnes; it is sometimes referred to as the Championship Course, and follows an S shape, east to west. The start and finish are marked by the University Boat Race Stones on the south bank. The clubs’ presidents toss a coin (the 1829 sovereign) before the race for the right to choose which side of the river (station) they will row on: their decision is based on the day’s weather conditions and how the various bends in the course might favour their crew’s pace.

The north station (‘Middlesex’) has the advantage of the first and last bends, and the south (‘Surrey’) station the longer middle bend.

During the race the coxes compete for the fastest current, which lies at the deepest part of the river, frequently leading to clashes of blades and warnings from the umpire. A crew that gets a lead of more than a boat’s length can cut in front of their opponent, making it extremely difficult for the trailing crew to gain the lead.

For this reason the tactics of the race are generally to go fast early on, and few races have a change of the lead after half-way.

The race is rowed upstream, but is timed to start on the incoming flood tide so that the crews are rowing with the fastest possible current. If a strong wind is blowing from the west it will be against the tide in places along the course, causing the water to become very rough. The conditions are sometimes such that an international regatta would be cancelled, but the Boat Race has a tradition of proceeding even in potential sinking conditions.

The race is a well-established and popular fixture in the British sporting calendar, with an estimated quarter of a million people watched the race live from the banks of the river and millions on television.

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Thinking

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Bigfor Charity

n attempt at the largest-ever Pilates class saw hundreds lay down their mats on 10th March to flex and stretch their bodies for Comic Relief. The event fell short of breaking the world record of 862 people in one class by fewer than 50 participants, but despite not breaking the record, event organisers were “over the moon” with the finale fundraising total of £36,000 raised for Red Nose Day.

“It was an amazing spirit of everyone coming together. We are absolutely overwhelmed by the amount of money that this has raised for Comic Relief.”

Celebrity supporters such as Chelsea footballer Paulo Ferreira, Harlequins rugby star Matt Hopper and singer and TV presenter Louise Redknapp attended the record-breaking attempt at ACS Cobham International School.

Mrs Pourteymour and the other organisers have now been invited on to the Comic Relief television show on Friday night to sit in the audience and possibly be interviewed live.

Donna Pourteymour, the owner of Cobham Pilates which was behind the attempt, said: “Of course there was a bit of disappointment that we didn’t quite get the world record, but it was tiny in comparison to just how positive and energetic the feeling in that room was.

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Every child who took part received a medal for attempting to break the record. The ages of participants ranged from 6 to 79.

She added: “It’s incredible because we were on the Comic Relief website home page all weekend, and we were the only one which wasn’t a celebrity project. They have been so supportive in getting behind it.”

On the day, Louise Redknapp spoke to participants about her experience of visiting

Uganda for Comic Relief last year.

“She literally got up from her mat before the attempt and spoke about her time there, and really made people understand that every pound raised actually changes a life,” said Mrs Pourteymour.

The organising team are now looking ahead to next year and considering attempting to break the record again.

“On the day I said we wouldn’t try again, because I was just so tired,” added Mrs Pourteymour.

“But I’m a great believer in karma and now I think maybe we were meant to just miss out so that we would try again next year and raise more money. I know if we did try again, we would definitely get the record.”

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BRITISH BEACH POLO CHAMPIONSHIP 2013

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s a highlight of the South Coast’s summer season, the Asahi British Beach Polo Championship will return to Sandbanks, Poole for its sixth year on the 12/13thJuly 2013. Supported by some of the best arena polo players the hotly anticipated beach festival promises more excitement and glamour both on and off the pitch. England, Ireland, Scotland (sponsored by our very own Sandbanks Life for the second consecutive year) and Wales will be competing with Ireland keen to retain the title after a gripping final against Wales last year. There is floodlit night beach polo on the Friday evening, visiting international polo teams and of course the ‘bonkers’ beach polo after parties.

Arena polo is a spectacular spectator sport and played on a stunning Blue Flag beach (preferable sundrenched!) brings the very best out

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of the players and guests. The thorough bred ponies and high goal players love playing on the beach in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd. Jack Kidd who is a regular for England at the Championships says ‘I have been lucky enough to play polo all round the world – Sandbanks is still one of my favourite weekends of the year. The polo is insanely competitive, the guests are always on great form and the beach party’s well – they are simply the best!’

Whether visitors are dining in the waterfront Sandpolo Hospitality marquee, enjoying the exclusive VIP experience, soaking up the atmosphere with General Admission tickets, or just choosing to sit outside the fence on the purpose built beach viewing area it is a chance for polo and Sandbanks to show off its attributes to about 5000 seasoned and new supporters each year.

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To complement the polo The Asahi British Beach Polo Championship offers a host of other activities such as ‘have a go’ polo, the Oakley Ladies Beach Volleyball, fashion shows, the charity Audi V Polo Pony race and the vibrant retail village. The polo is an excuse to dress up (or strip off for a quick swim), stay up late and indulge.

Founded by Johnny Wheeler and David Heaton-Ellis the publicity for the inaugural Championships in 2008 was kick started by Piers Morgan drawing people’s attention to Sandbanks as ‘Britain’s Monte Carlo’ . Despite the onset of the recession a growing number of businesses use this ‘boutique’ event to entertain clients, reward their staff and promote their brands. Whilst sponsorship is still an important revenue stream new ideas such as camel polo (stand by for the elephants!), floodlit beach polo, equine displays and the appearance of the odd celebrity has kept people talking about the event and coming back year on year.

So why does the Championships keep returning to Poole. Johnny Wheeler says ‘a cooperative council and a large stunning easily

accessible beach are the vital ingredients for us as event organisers.

Some good weather, the best polo players and an enthusiastic crowd is pretty important too’. The beach polo continues to add massive value to Sandbanks and continues to go from strength to strength.

After Dark Polo players and supporters have something of a reputation for letting their hair down. The polo ‘beach after parties’ at Sandbanks provides seasoned and new comers to the sport with a very cool but exciting place to relax, socialise and dance until the small hours of the morning.

On the Friday evening live music will increase in tempo after the floodlit beach polo match with the most original DJs connecting with the mixed generation audience. The closing party on Saturday night brings an unmissable eclectic mix of sounds to rock the Jurassic coast.

With the title sponsors Asahi beer providing a refreshing balance to the flowing champagne and excellent food to fuel the dancing it is rare to see people leave the beach before the 1am survivors photo. www.sandpolo.com

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EV E N TS

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... kitchens of distinction S ho wr o om s @ 7 8 & 8 2 Ch u r c h S tr eet , Wey br id ge , Sur r ey, KT 13 8D L, 01932 856850, WH W.CO . UK

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BMW PGA GOLF CHAMPIONSHIPS

Wentworth Club, Virginia Water, Surrey • 21st – 26th May 2013 Celebrity Pro-Am Day – 22nd May 2013

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onald faces tough challenge from Ryder Cup team-mates in hunt for third successive BMW PGA title

World Number Four Luke Donald has his sights fixed firmly on a place in the record books alongside Colin Montgomerie next month by attempting to capture the BMW PGA Championship for a third consecutive year against a world class field likely to include the rest of his victorious Ryder Cup colleagues from last September’s ‘Miracle at Medinah’.

The 35 year old Englishman joined Montgomerie and Sir Nick Faldo as the only players to have successfully defended the title in the illustrious history of the players’ flagship event when he won in considerable style in 2012.

Now Donald is aiming to complete a glorious treble from May 23-26 at Wentworth Club, a feat achieved only by eight-time European Number One Montgomerie, who completed the previously unprecedented hat-trick in 1998, 1999 and 2000.

Donald edged out Lee Westwood in a play-off in 2011 – and with it leapfrogged his compatriot into the World Number One spot – before successfully defending the title in last year, cruising to a four stroke victory which again returned him to the pinnacle of the Official World Golf Ranking. “Obviously the BMW PGA Championship is The European Tour’s flagship event and to win it back-to-back was very special for me,” said Donald, who also made history in 2011 by topping The Race to Dubai and the US PGA Tour Money List in the same season. “It will be a great honour to go there and try to do what Monty did It’s a huge event on The European Tour schedule and the West Course is one that suits my game very well. I’ll be going there with high expectations of trying to emulate the great Colin Montgomerie.”

As well as Donald, the field is set to contain the Ryder Cup heroes from Chicago, who over-turned a 10-6 deficit with only the singles

21ST–26TH

MAY

2013

24 APRIL 2013

remaining last year, and completed the greatest comeback in European history to beat the United States 14 ½ - 13 ½ .

Among the global superstars on show will be Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell from Northern Ireland, England’s Donald, Lee Westwood, Ian Poulter and Justin Rose along with Germany’s Martin Kaymer, Scotland’s Paul Lawrie, Italy’s Francesco Molinari and winning Captain José Maria Olazábal. Additionally, current Open champion Ernie Els will return to the venue where he had a home close to the 16th fairway on the iconic West Course.

This amazing event offers a superb package of fun, celebrity-spotting and world class golf taking place over a six-day period, from 21st – 26th May, representing outstanding value for practice day, celebrity pro-am day and the four rounds of the event.

The popular celebrity pro-am event on 22nd May, includes Bruce Forsyth and Anton du Beke from Strictly Come Dancing, Olympic rowing medallists Steve Redgrave and Matt Pinsent, Tennis player Tim Henman, and footballers Glenn Hoddle and Matt le Tissier.

Among the important new developments is the introduction of a Park and Ride system, which comes into operation for the first time in 2013, to help facilitate the flow of traffic in the vicinity and allow spectators ready access to the beautiful Wentworth Estate.

The Park and Ride is designed to enhance the experience for everyone attending one of the ‘must see’ events of the sporting summer and will operate from two locations – one near Sunningdale, which will carry traffic from the West (M3 and M4) and one at the Review Ground, Windsor Great Park, which is East of the tournament venue close to the M25. Both parks will operate free shuttle bus service to Wentworth Club every five minutes with the journey time taking around 10 minutes.

BMW Owners and Official Badge Holders will be able to park on site

F E AT U R E

as in previous years, while there is an opportunity for the public to pre-pay for a limited number of parking spaces on site at a cost of £10 per day from Wednesday onwards. On site car parking is only available by booking in advance in conjunction with the purchase of advance tickets.

Spectators using the Park and Ride shuttle buses will be dropped off at the new Welcome Tent adjacent to the 18th fairway of the East Course, giving access to the superb BMW PGA Championship Tented Village and incorporating a dedicated ticket collection point and a raft of other valuable spectator information on arrival. Park and Ride will operate from Wednesday to Sunday with free on-site parking for all spectators on Tuesday.

An excellent alternative for spectators wishing to leave the car at home is to let the train take the strain. Virginia Water Station is only a five minute bus trip from the entrance to the Welcome Tent and a complimentary shuttle service will run on a continuous loop to and from the event throughout each day from Wednesday.

Virginia Water Station can be accessed easily from London Waterloo, Clapham Junction, Reading, Woking, Weybridge and many other stations. For more details on services and timings please visit www. thetrainline.com Advance ticket and hospitality packages, including 18th green grandstand seating and limited on-site parking, are available now on www.europeantour.com/tickets. Children aged 16 and under will be admitted free of charge if accompanied by an adult ticket holder.

Wentworth, a Club famous for its Championship golf and three outstanding courses, and a Tennis & Health Club that sets the standard in its class. At Wentworth Club, you can follow in the footsteps of the game’s great players - not just this year’s top professionals but from the last 80 years. It’s the legends such as Ben

Hogan, Sam Snead, Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Seve Ballesteros, Greg Norman, Nick Faldo, Ernie Els and Tiger Woods that make this course, and, indeed membership of this Club as special as it is today.

Golf Days can be held on all three of their immaculately conditioned, world-class golf courses, which have hosted some of golf’s most prestigious tournaments. Indeed, part of the magic of Wentworth is a giving your guests and clients the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of the golfing greats.

Golf is the heart of Wentworth, but there is more to Wentworth than golf. The Club of today reflects in every way George Tarrant’s original vision of an American-style country club; somewhere for you and the whole family to enjoy, and a place where the Social Calendar of Events is not just part of the fabric of the Club, but also one of its strengths and a major attraction of membership.

In summary, Wentworth has one of the most active, fun and varied Event Calendars - it features every year a programme of traditional and historic events to appeal to members of all ages, tastes and interests, including the New Year’s Eve Party, Men’s Club Dinner, Easter Sunday Lunch, Mother’s and Father’s Day Luncheons, Summer Parties, Captain’s Barbecue, Fireworks Party, various Christmas functions and fashion shows and lunches plus Discovery Evenings.

There is, quite literally, something for everyone.

At Wentworth there is a room for every occasion, everything from the grand Ballroom with its elegant chandeliers and beautiful paintings, to the smaller and more intimate Ryder Cup and Curtis Cup rooms.

As you will appreciate, there are clubs; and then there is Wentworth Club. www.wentworthclub.com

APRIL 2013 25

EV E N TS

ROYAL WINDSOR SHOW celebrates its 70th anniversary Tickets now on sale for Royal Windsor Horse Show, the only event held in the Private Grounds of Windsor Castle, 8th – 12th May 2013 26 APRIL 2013

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he Box Office opens today (Monday 4th February) for Royal Windsor Horse Show which celebrates its 70th anniversary this year. This classic English Horse Show was started in 1943 by Count Robert Orssich and Mr Geoffrey Cross to raise money for the war effort and has run every year since, with the exception of 2001 when the outbreak of foot and mouth stopped the Show. The first show was attended by all of the Royal Family including the then Princess Elizabeth. Her Majesty The Queen has attended the Show every year since.

This year’s Show will be a special event in celebration of its 70 years with outstanding equestrian and military displays being included in its packed programme. One of the highlights will be The Musical Drive of The Kings Troop with its teams of 68 horses pulling six one and a half ton World War One guns will perform complex movements at a pace, including the famous criss-cross.

and junior rider competitions such as The Shetland Pony Grand National and the DAKS Pony Club Mounted Games, traditional military competitions including The Best Turned Out Trooper and Military Tent Pegging competitions and grass roots jumping including over 15 classes run by The British Horse Society.

Simon Brooks-Ward, Event Director, commented “We are immensely looking forward to celebrating the 70th anniversary of Royal Windsor Horse Show. It is going to be a very special year for the Show this year and I am convinced that 8TH–12TH the programme we are delivering will create special memories for our equestrian audience.”

MAY

2013

In addition The Household Cavalry will perform their Musical Ride at the Show, treating the Windsor audience to a display of speed and precision from the 26 horses and riders.

The packed programme of Jumping and Showing classes annually attracts over 3,000 entries and 45,000 visitors. Royal Windsor is a celebration of all things equestrian. On top of the 170 Jumping and Showing Classes runs The Land Rover International Carriage Driving Grand Prix, one of the most important events in the European Driving Calendar. In addition the Show entertains with, fun pony

To purchase tickets visit the website on www.rwhs.co.uk and book online or telephone the box office on 0844 581 4960 from the UK and +44 (0) 121 767 4660 internationally.

Tickets start at £8 for a child and are kept at an affordable level with family tickets being only £49 for a family of five at the weekend. Tickets can also be bought over the counter at Windsor Information Centre, located in the Windsor Royal Shopping Centre, or you can telephone the Centre on 01753 743900, they are also able to provide hotel and B&B bookings at excellent rates.

Tickets now on sale for Royal Windsor Horse Show, the only event held in the Private Grounds of Windsor Castle, 8th – 12th May 2013 Visit www.rwhs.co.uk for more information.

APRIL 2013 27

EV E N TS

The 2013 Virgin London Marathon SUNDAY 21 ST APRIL 2013

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ince the first ever London Marathon on 29th March 1981, the race has grown in size, stature and popularity ever since. Now established among the major events in the sporting calendar, the London Marathon is shown on television in more that 150 countries around the world. As a fundraising event, there is no race in the world that comes close to the London Marathon.

Runners in the 2012 Virgin London Marathon set yet another record figure for charity fund raising when they collected £51.8 million for good causes at last year’s race , confirming the London Marathon as the largest annual one-day fund raising event in the world. With a similar total expected from this year’s runners, the total raised over 30 years since the first race in 1981 will reach more than £500 million!

An iconic image of the event is the thousands of runners traipsing the streets to raise money for charity, many in fancy dress, hoping to stand out as a rhino, football mascot, giant tree, or escaped convict.

More than three quarters of competitors now run for a good cause and a third of all entry places are offered by charitable organisations.

In addition, over the last three decades the London Marathon Charitable Trust has awarded more than £35 million in grants to develop sport and recreation facilities in the capital and other areas in the country where the London marathon stages events. The elite races start at 9am for women and 28 APRIL 2013

9.45am for men, with the London Marathon wheelchair races beginning at 9.20am and the mass race at 9.45am.

Britain’s double Olympic champion Mo Farah will get his first taste of an elite marathon when he runs the first half of the 2013 Virgin London Marathon alongside some of the greatest marathon runners of all time. The Olympic 5000m and 10,000m champion has agreed to make his full marathon debut at the 2014 London Marathon and will use this year’s race to prepare himself for the challenge of tackling 26.2 miles. Farah’s aim is to test himself against the best in the world while becoming familiar with the London course.

Celebrities lined up to take part this year include: model Sophie Anderton, actors Christopher Eccelston and Tony Audenshaw, designer Wayne Hemingway, opera singer Katherine Jenkins, McFly’s Harry Judd, Top chef Michel Roux, wine and foodie expert Olly Smith.

Some advice to those that wish to go along and support and cheer on the brave runners, many roads are closed on race day, so the best way to get around is using the London Underground, South Eastern and Docklands Light Railway (DLR), who lay on extra services especially. Remember, the trains will be busy all day – expect it to be like rush hour. You’ll probably have to queue at some stations and the tube lines may be forced to shut temporarily throughout the day to help ease the crowds.

For more details go to www.virginlondonmarathon.com

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120 Wigmore street, London, W1U 3Ls 509 Uxbridge Road, hatch end, Pinner, Middlesex hA5 4Js 77-79 Wycombe end, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire hP9 1LX telephone: 020 7486 3080 email: info@halcyon-interiors.co.uk | www.halcyon-interiors.co.uk

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F E AT U R E

HAM POLO CLUB 2013 FIXTURES LIST

The historic Ham Polo Club is once again gearing up for the summer season. 2013 is looking to be a busy year with several new fixtures. This year will see the return of the home edition of the Ham vs Cowdray Park games, a fantastic match with a huge amount of rivalry between the two clubs. Also particularly worth looking out for is the Access Bank high goal day in June, the worlds greatest polo player Adolfo Cambiaso will be on the field with his team mates dazzling the crowd with their playing skills.

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nly eight miles from Hyde Park Corner, Ham Polo Club is the last remaining polo club in Greater London.

Founded in 1926, the club has an established and distinguished reputation at over 85 years old. HPC was the first club to restart the game of polo in the UK following the second world war, this was largely due to the efforts of Billy Walsh who was honoured by HM the Queen in 1985 for his efforts reviving the club and the sport. Billy’s career in the game brought a great deal to Ham, he had a huge knowledge of horses and was for many years the Duke of Edinburgh’s team mate.

He captained the Ham team that won the Roehampton Cup in 1947, the first post war edition of the competition. The tournament for the Roehampton is now held at Ham and the finals sponsored by Bang & Olufsen of Kingston are held in late August.

Ham has had many royal visits over its history. Prince Charles played at the club in several high profile events during the 1980s and 90s.

Since 2000 Princes William and Harry have been on the field for a number of charity fundraisers. Charity days like these at Ham have raised around £2 million over the last 15 years.

APRIL 2013 31

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Ham Polo Club has become one of the most idyllic settings in the capital city and goes from strength to strength. Upon arrival, players and spectators find themselves nestled between the leafy cover of Richmond Park and the River Thames, overlooked by the stunning Jacobean Ham House. The club now boasts one of the busiest schedules of competitive polo and charity events, and known for excellent playing and social facilities combined with a relaxed family atmosphere.

As well as these big events there is a full programme of polo every Sunday at Ham Polo Club. Spectators are always welcome and there is plenty of pitch side parking and picnic space. A day at Ham Polo Club is a truly British day out as well as being one of the most inexpensive ways to entertain family and friends. The club also offers social membership which allows you to use the fantastic clubhouse restaurant and bar.

If you cant wait to come and enjoy the atmosphere at Ham then you’ll be pleased to know that polo starts on Sunday 5th May. The first big finals day will be May 19th and will be combined with a visit from the MG car club. An action packed final will be followed by a concourse d’elegance

32 APRIL 2013

featuring 50 stunning MG classics dating from 1926 till present.

Set in more than 21 acres, the Club has 3 polo fields, all suitable for helicopter landings by arrangement.

There is ample parking for quick and easy limo access to nearby central London and the surrounding area. Its close proximity to the River Thames means the nearby River Boat service at Richmond can be accessed for trips into and out of London. Twickenham Rugby stadium is just 3 miles away.

Agreed and paid for in advance, we welcome helicopter landings from all over the country, and are happy to offer 30 minutes parking included free of charge within the landing fee.

For advance bookings, please contact helicopters@hampoloclub.com

Ham Polo Club

Petersham Road, Richmond, Surrey, TW10 7AH www.hampoloclub.com

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Fixtures list 2013 MARCH Saturday 9th Accra PC vs Ham (away) Saturday 23rd Polo Liveries Open

APRIL Friday 19th Cocktail Party Thursday 25th Chukkas (Weather Permitting)

MAY Spring League Games Club Matches Chukkas Spring League Games Anthony Cup Double Bet Sunday 19th Ham House MG Owners Club display Hine Cognac Saturday 25th Spring League Games Sunday 26th June Bamberg HR Owen Monday 27th Open Day Saturday 4th Sunday 5th Monday 6th Saturday 11th Sunday 12th

JUNE Mixed Doubles Social Committee Saturday 8th Spring League Games Sunday 9th Moscow PC vs Ham Richmond Park Doug Brown Saturday 15th Spring League Games Sunday 2nd

Tiger Tops Tiger Mountain I Tiger MountaIn II Sunday 23rd Petersham Bowl John Player Friday 28th Gaucho Sundown Polo Saturday 29th Spring League Games CST Polo Classic Sunday 30th Tiger Stream Ventura Pauly Sunday 16th

JULY

Summer Tournament Rosie Adams Rerrison Edward Tauchert Bow Saturday 13th Spring League Games Sunday 14th Invitational Day Cowdray vs Ham Peter Pitts I Peter Pitts II Visitors Cup (Leadenham vs Ham) Saturday 20th Spring League Final Sunday 21st Gold Cup Club Matches (morning) Friday 26th Summer Ball Saturday 27th Accra PC vs Ham Newport PC vs Ham Quatro Amigos Cup Sunday 28th International Day NO POLO AT HAM Sunday 7th

AUGUST Saturday 3rd Sunday 4th

Summer League Games Godbold Trophy

Don Zoilo Saturday 10th Summer League Games Dubai Trophy Sunday 11th Kingfisher Indian Army Saturday 17th Summer League Games Sunday 18th Stagshead Cheval Trophy Saturday 24th Summer League Games Sunday 25th Roehampton Cup Critchley Trophy Leadenham vs Ham (away) Monday 26th Cowdray vs Ham (away) Saturday 31st Summer League Games

SEPTEMBER Candilio Cup Jimmy Edwards Saturday 7th Summer League Games Newport PC vs Ham (away) HAC 105 Cup Day Sunday 8th Polo Challenge Hunt Kendall Saturday 14th Summer League Games Sunday 15th Autumn Cup David Brown Friday 20th Players Dinner Sunday 22nd Billy Walsh Saturday 28th Summer League Final Sunday 29th Farewell Cup Asprey Red Cross Sunday 1st

Tournament Final Visiting Team Saturday League Day

Social Away Match

APRIL 2013 33

Fr ee f o M r en em rH tr be S y rs F E AT U R E

SPrING RHS GARDEN WISLeY, SUrreY Junction 10, off the M25 Experience all the best spring has to offer with a relaxing day out in a world-class garden brimming with seasonal colour. Enjoy fine dining in The Restaurant, a slice of cake in our cafés and browse the huge selection of gifts and plants in our Shop and Plant Centre.

• Wildflower Weekend 20 – 21 April • Contemporary Craft & Design Fair 2 – 6 May • May Half Term Family Fun 25 May – 2 June rhs.org.uk/wisley 34 APRIL 2013 Follow us on

Images: © RHS, © E Grant (bridge). RHS Registered Charity No: 222879/SC038262

EDUCATION LIFE T H E

Q U A L I T Y

E D U C A T I O N

S U P P L E M E N T

A P R I L

2 0 1 3

Welcome...

The independent school system in the UK is one of the finest in the world and you are fortunate to have some of the best schools in the country right on your doorstep.

In today’s economic climate, making the right choice for your child’s education is of paramount importance.

Sometimes every parent needs a helping hand in deciding what is best for their children.

Our Education Life series is an invaluable resource for any parent considering private education. Many schools will be having their first open days of 2013 soon. Encourage your children to come with you and get their feedback after each visit.

It also provides an insight into the way a child sees a prospective future school. This month sees the second of our three part Education Life series which will also appear in the September issue.

Please feel free to contact either Anita Hill at anita@fishmediagroup.co.uk or Lynsey Saker at lynsey@fishmediagroup.co.uk if you would like any further information.

THE FINEST SCHOOLS IN SURREY & LONDON

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

WHY IT’S A BOYS WORLD AT PARKSIDE For many parents, choosing a single sex school for their child can be attributed to instinct

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ome fear their boy will be left behind by more academically mature girls or that he will coast in their shadows.

Yet more believe that the empathetic, collaborative teaching style to which girls respond so well does not provide the stimulation and challenge their son needs.

We all know girls and boys mature at different rates and respond to different teaching styles.

That’s why at Parkside teaching has been developed over many years to suit the needs of young boys. The staff choose applications which are relevant to boys’ lives and incorporate many journeys of exploration and adventure into their learning.

Parkside gives its pupils plenty of opportunity to shine and develop their potential with a broad-based curriculum which encompasses art, music and drama, PE and technology in addition to the usual Common Entrance subjects.

There is also a wide range of extra-curricular activities including kayaking, skiing and outward bound activities, as well as nonsporting activities from Airfix modelling, to debating and chess. Throughout the year cultural and sporting trips are arranged to France, Italy and the Channel Islands, plus outings to museums, theatres and other places of interest.

The boys reap huge benefit from the fabulous setting and continued investment in the school’s facilities. Most recently this has seen the opening of a second IT suite plus the introduction of iPads for use throughout the school, from Nursery upwards.

In recent years the school has benefitted from a new Performing Arts Hall, extra music practice rooms, and a music technology classroom, plus refurbished and updated science laboratories and learning support rooms.

The library facilities have

2 APRIL 2013

also been extended to provide a wonderful environment for study with an enviable selection of books.

Parkside also has musicians of an incredible standard and, in addition to lessons as part of the general curriculum; boys are able to receive individual tuition in a variety of musical instruments.

The school has an enviable sporting record.

The main sports are football, hockey and cricket, but the boys also have an opportunity to take part in rugby, swimming,

athletics, tennis, basketball, judo, golf and cross-country running.

Parkside’s teaching has been developed over many years to suit the changing needs of young boys. Small class sizes and the attention given to each pupil helps the teachers recognise precisely what makes each boy tick and programmes are developed to nurture the abilities of individuals.

Fact Box • Parkside School is a Cobham based high achieving preparatory school for boys aged 4-13. It also runs its own co-educational nursery for children aged between 2 ½ and 4 years.

• Further details on the school and a prospectus can be obtained by calling 01932 862749 or visiting www.parkside-school.co.uk.

• The next open mornings will be held on 24th May 2013 and 6th July 2013

Cognitive Behaviour Therapy

Karen Thomas

• Anxiety • Phobia • Stress • Depression • Couples therapy • Emotional support/behaviour adjustment, children and young people

The Olive Branch Group

07738 713 545

olivebranchgroup@yahoo.co.uk www.olivebranchgroup@yahoo.co.uk

OLIVE BRANCH3.indd 1

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son’s

success Our learning style, sports facilities, science, art, music and performance specialities are all aimed at investing in your son’s future. Academic excellence in a boy’s own setting; that’s why many parents speak of Parkside as being the best investment you will ever make for your son.

The Manor, Stoke d’Abernon, Cobham, Surrey KT11 3PX Tel: 01932 862 749 www.parkside-school.co.uk © Copyright Parkside 2012

Limited number of bursaries available

ng ly ni Ju or 6th m n y& pe O Ma th 24

we invest in your

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

LOOKING AFTER YOUR CHILD’S

EMOTIONAL WELLBEING

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ow in its’ 7th year, The Olive Branch Group is continuing its work providing Cognitive Behaviour Therapy to individuals, couples and groups. Founder of The Olive Branch Group, Karen Thomas highlights the importance of providing emotional support for children, how this can lead to a better education and the benefits of family therapy.

“In addition to working with adults, The Olive Branch Group works alongside children and young people. Like adults, sometimes our children need some additional support, a little bit of emotional TLC. Exams, sporting pressures, relationship issues – be it with their parents, peers or siblings – can all take their toll on our children leading to emotions such as anger, stress, anxiety and depression; and deterioration in behaviour.

We all want the best for our children and for them to get the most from their education and I’m sure it is no surprise to hear that learning is best achieved when emotionally stable children are introduced to supportive educational environments. However, even with the best resources and the most highly qualified and experienced teachers, children will not achieve their best if they are anxious, unsettled or find themselves isolated from their peer group. The Olive Branch Group specialises in providing Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) to children with emotional [and/or behavioural] difficulties. We have a track record of working with schools and supporting families to help children tackle problems that might otherwise prevent them from making the most of their education. We work either directly in conjunction with schools or privately outside of the school environment.

In addition to offering CBT on a one to one basis, we have come

4 APRIL 2013

to realise that sometimes a more holistic approach is needed. As such we have just launched our ‘Family Consultancy’ option. This allows us to make an assessment not just of the child but also of the family and school environment. It is simply not always enough to offer therapy to a child without looking at the broader picture. The ‘Family Consultancy’ option allows us to have a more in depth look at issues like; parenting difficulties such as eating, sleeping, homework and behaviour management, interpersonal problems with peers, siblings, parents or other adults, issues at school be it academic, social or the provision of additional support, whilst also using CBT to help adjust any emotional difficulties.

At The Olive Branch Group we know what a positive role CBT can have in empowering the most vulnerable of children and have witnessed first-hand the impact this can have on their ability to learn and enjoy their time at home and school.

We also know that fixing one part of the puzzle isn’t always enough.

If you feel that your child would benefit from our input, whether on a one to one basis or if you feel that need additional support as a family, please do not hesitate to contact me.”

Karen Thomas olivebranchgroup@yahoo.co.uk www.olivebranchgroup.co.uk 07738713545

Couldn’t get into Hurtwood!

Left it too late, poor lamb!

What a shame! Hurtwood was the Sixth Form of her dreams, the best in the world for the Performing and Creative arts and brilliant academically, too. How she longed to be part of that cosy, inspiring community... but alas, too late... too late.

So don’t delay – contact me now – or

scream

for the rest of your life!

Cosmo Jackson T: 01483 279000 E: info@hurtwood.net

www.hurtwoodhouse.com

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

Feeding curiosity and wonder through extra-curricular clubs

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ituated on the outskirts of bustling Guildford, Lanesborough Preparatory School is blessed with spacious buildings and plenty of outdoor space, including a large playing field. Lively boys need room to thrive and at lunchtimes and after school, the classrooms and grounds are buzzing with boys running here and there. Under their arms are trainers, or bits of wood, maybe a trumpet, a box of Warhammer paint or a well-worn script with lines to learn. These are all precious props needed for a school club that they have chosen to join, and the choice is impressive.

Lanesborough boys from Reception class to year 8 can partake in no less than 45 different clubs. The variety is staggering, and any boy aged between 3 and 13 with a sense of spirit and curiousity would surely put a place at Lanesborough high on their wish list. Clubs include ever-popular sports such as hockey, tennis, rugby, football and cricket but how about baseball, country dancing, fencing and ‘backflippers’, for those who aspire to become gymnasts?

On a more sedate level boys can develop their interest in classics, chess, gardening and computers and in the musical arena, various choirs, all shapes and sizes of musical instruments and music tech are very popular. Arts clubs are also well supported with drama, lighting, sound and art all providing a brilliant outlet for creative juices.

For those who want to try something different Lego, Horrible Histories and Airfix clubs are offered and year 7 & 8 boys get the opportunity to study astronomy. They can then take it at GCSE level thus gaining a wonderfully stimulating ‘out of world’ experience often missed in traditional school studies.

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The clubs are all run by Lanesborough staff and visiting tutors who are passionate about their subject. The clubs forge strong relationships and respect between staff and pupils. Boys take pride in belonging and join primarily for the fun, but also to fuel their desire to learn and discover.

Toby Griffiths, Deputy Head of Lanesborough who runs the club programme says, “We feel that it is important that all boys get the opportunity to experience different types of learning whether it is cerebral, physical, musical or creative. Some of the clubs may be a bit of fun for a lunchtime but others may engender a lifelong passion which they can pursue well beyond Lanesborough” Visitors to Lanesborough are always struck by the diversity of activities and the school clearly succeeds in nurturing those qualities that cannot be measured simply by academic assessment.

Understandably proud of a longstanding reputation for excellent academic results, outstanding music, strong sport and creative opportunities, Lanesborough also recognizes the importance of combining high achievement with a secure, happy atmosphere that makes boys want to get out of bed in the morning. The cheerful, purposeful atmosphere that pervades throughout the school is the proof of the pudding.

Lanesborough School, Maori Road, Guildford Gu1 2EL Tel: 01483 880650 Enquiries: 01483 880651 www.lanesborough.surrey.sch.uk

MyUniApplication.com Expert UK and US university application advice

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fulfil the potential of every boy’s learning We aspire to

An Independent Day School for Boys aged 3 to 13

Open afternOOn

friday 15th March 2013

OPEN MORNING Open MOrning

Saturday 12TH 12th OctOber SATURDAY OCTOBER 2013 2013 LANESBOROUGH.indd 1

Maori Road, Guildford, Surrey GU1 2EL 01483 880650 www.lanesborough.surrey.sch.uk

07/04/2013 11:39

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

Feltonfleet School

Feltonfleet School is a co-educational independent day, weekly and flexi boarding school for up to 390 children aged 3-13 years. It has a deserved reputation as being in the very front rank of prep schools and prides itself on developing confident and happy children with a zest for life and a love of learning.

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he school is situated on a beautiful 25 acre site of pine woodland, games fields and landscaped play areas, conveniently located near the A3 and A245 roads, providing easy access to both West London and the Walton and Weybridge areas. They also run daily coach and mini-bus services from a number of destinations.

The school’s recent ISI Inspection Report (Jan 2013) highlights Feltonfleet’s excellence in all areas of educational provision. The school is extremely proud of the report which describes the pupils’ “exemplary attitudes to learning”, their “confidence”, “maturity” and their “excellent inter-personal skills”. Pastoral care is “of the highest quality” and the report goes on to describe the school’s team of dedicated and well qualified teachers as “exemplary role models” who “empower pupils to achieve their potential in and out of the classroom”. The report describes Feltonfleet as a school with “academic thoroughness and a strong work ethic”, where “pupils benefit from a varied and creative educational experience, in which talent is cultivated and service to others is the norm”.

Headmaster, Mr Alastair Morrison, who joined Feltonfleet in September from Fettes Prep, Edinburgh, says, “We are delighted with the Inspection Report. It is a wonderful endorsement of all that is being done so very well in our special school. As a father to three young girls myself, I know that choosing the right schooling for one’s children is the most important decision parents will make.

I encourage you to visit Feltonfleet and see for yourselves, our wonderful learning community in action”.

Prospective parents are invited to visit the school at their forthcoming

8 APRIL 2013

Open Morning on Saturday 11th May 9.30am until 12 noon. Please see the school’s website or contact the admissions registrar, Mrs Sue Lewin, if you require further details.

Feltonfleet is a co-educational school because they have every confidence in the benefit that girls and boys reap from learning, playing and working alongside each other.

Their firm belief is that co-education prepares young people to build successful relationships and better equips them for a life spent at work.

In a nutshell, Feltonfleet offers a balanced, challenging and wide-ranging curriculum. Their “excellent”-rated boarding provision, which includes a Breakfast and After School Club, allows boarders to flourish whilst offering flexibility and support to working parents.

Academic standards are high and pupils are always encouraged to do their best. High quality teaching and excellent pastoral care underpin the unique family atmosphere at Feltonfleet, where every individual child is encouraged to uncover talents and develop their abilities.

The school is proud of its excellent academic results, the creativity of their pupils, their sporting record and the increasing number of senior school scholarships awarded to their pupils, (a record 20 in 2012). We encourage you to visit them in person or online, to find out more.

You can download the complete ISI Inspection report from their website.

Feltonfleet School, Byfleet Road, Cobham, Surrey, KT11 1DR admissions@feltonfleet.co.uk 01932 862264 www.feltonfleet.co.uk

Royal Grammar School

Guildford

Leading independent day school for boys aged 11-18

admissions@rgs-guildford.co.uk

01483 880600

www.rgs-guildford.co.uk

an education tailored for boys Registered Charity No. 312028

To arrange a tour email registrar@dulwichpreplondon.org or call 020 8766 5525 Visit www.dulwichpreplondon.org for more information.

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

ISL Surrey Achieves Highest Level in IPC Accreditation The International School of London (ISL) Surrey is one of seven schools of over 1500 schools worldwide and the only school in the UK to achieve the highest level in the International Primary Curriculum (IPC) accreditation.

ISL progressed from its initial Developing level to Mastering in all nine criteria assessed in just two years.

M

artin Skelton, Founding Director of the IPC, stated that ISL Surrey’s rapid progress ‘demonstrates how a school community can, with focus and willingness to model learning, develop considerably in a relatively short space time. You and your colleagues have set a fantastic example to other schools.” Further, he stated that “ISL is now a very important symbol of everything we stand for.”

In assessing the balance of knowledge, skills and reflection leading to understanding, the team commented, “There is evidence in all classrooms of practices which help children to extend their knowledge, to practice their skills and children are also given time to reflect on their learning. Through their reflection on previous themes, the children make connections which will deepen their understanding….”

During their accreditation visit, the team studied the school’s selfreview, observed 30 lessons, spoke with a wide range of parents, teachers and students, the Head of School and Head of Primary, team leaders, school board and non-teaching staff, and studied a wide range of documents and policies.

In summation, “The school uses the personal goals and the international goals of the IPC to help the children develop the attitudes, skills and understanding which will in turn help them become responsible contributors to both local and global communities. This desire to prepare children to become global citizens is something which characterizes the way in which all stakeholders respond to each other and is a significant feature of the school.”

The accreditation team noted that “The school has a very clear focus on learning which forms the foundation of everything that happens…. All teachers in the school make explicit the learning intentions for subjects, personal development and international mindedness in their planning. These learning intentions are made clear to the children at the beginning of each lesson and referred to during the learning. Teachers take time to talk to individual children throughout the lesson about the intended learning and to explain the success criteria.”

The commitment to international mindedness and mother tongue languages was viewed as an important part of the school’s ethos.

“The school has a deep commitment to developing and supporting international mindedness within its community…. The huge investment of time and resources to the teaching of mother tongue illustrates the school’s commitment to supporting its international community. The teaching within these mother tongue lessons supports the children’s understanding of the vocabulary used in the IPC units and also helps the children deepen their understanding of their own culture.”

Rigorous learning and high expectations were also commended.

“Teachers and children are enthusiastically engaged in their learning across all age ranges. The teachers have high expectations of the children. The bar is set high and the children are supported by their class teachers, learning assistants, language and specialist teachers. We observed children enjoying their learning and this deep engagement in the learning activities helped to ensure rigour.”

10 APRIL 2013

Commenting on this report, Dr Jim Doran, Head of School said, “The focus on learning, real learning, is extraordinary at our school, from our youngest to our oldest students.” To view a complete copy of the report, please refer to the school’s website: http://www.islschools. org/surrey/curriculum.php.

ISL Surrey was also recently commended as an Ofsted Outstanding school, achieving outstanding in 10 of 11 categories. ISL Surrey currently accepts students from Nursery through grade 8, age 2 through 14. The school is a candidate school for the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme and is adding a grade each year, building towards the International Baccalaureate diploma by 2015.

ISL Surrey prides itself in its small school family atmosphere, and its low student/teacher ratio, allowing for differentiated instruction and individualised support. The school is situated on a 10 acre campus and located in a beautiful wooded area in Surrey, 35 minutes by train to London, with easy access to London airports. ISL Surrey offers limited bursaries for local students.

To make an appointment to visit at another time, please telephone 01483-750409 or email admissions@islsurrey.org.

For further information visit www.islsurrey.org.

The Old Vicarage 127 Herne Hill London SE24 9LY W www.hernehillschool.co.uk.

E enquiries@hernehillschool.co.uk T 020 7274 6336

Independent co-ed pre-prep & nursery 3–7 years . Founded 1976 . Member ISA

Excellent and outstanding: 58 times!

Verdict from the latest Independent Schools’ Inspection report: The words excellent (highest rating for Whole School and Key Stage 1) and outstanding (highest rating for Early Years) feature an incredible 46 and 12 times, respectively.

See www.isi.net.

Friendship, for life

Main entry at 2+, 3+ and 4+.

We look forward to meeting you!

An outstanding* education that goes way beyond exams *Inspection Report 2012

From Reception to Sixth Form, our girls are our best advert 020 8557 7004 www.sydenhamhighschool.gdst.net admissions@syd.gdst.net 19 Westwood Hill London SE26 6BL

Junior School

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E DUCAT I O N L I F E

Why choosing an independent school leads to top university places Words: Peter B Hamilton, Headmaster of the Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School

I

t is getting inreasingly difficult to get into the top universities competition is fierce with thousands of students applying for each place. It is worth taking a step back to review how parents can best support their children through the daunting process of UCAS applications, and ultimately achieve the university place of their choice.

Instilling the right attitudes and approach is paramount in achieving success. This is one of the many strengths of the independent school system. Academic excellence is a crucial factor as university offers are conditional on achieving specific results. At interview, however, intellectual rigour and curiosity will help your child stand out from the crowd. The independent system fosters that from day one, encouraging students to go beyond the basic curriculum, discover their own interests in the world and pursue them. Students can devise their own coursework titles, choose additional languages, and undertake contemporary scientific research simply unavailable to them elsewhere. Having the support and resources to make these choices increases their value as a prospective undergraduate.

Independent schools also help develop intellectual independence and encourage students to have the confidence to articulate their opinions, particularly in the Sixth Form. This can make a noticeable difference when students attend interviews. They are better informed, more relaxed and self-assured than other candidates.

Academic successes, however, will only take them so far. The best universities are on the look out for students who have already distinguished themselves across a range of extra-curricular programmes. The independent sector is fortunate to be able to offer a wide range of extra-curricular activities, which can provide a wealth of additional experiences and skills that will equip your child for the demands of higher education. Many will have debated at The Hague

12 APRIL 2013

with the Model United Nations, played London concert venues, taken plays to Fringe festivals, and competed at national level in rugby, fencing or lacrosse all relevant to their personal statements.

Participating in such activities demonstrates a willingness to get involved, an aptitude for tackling complex challenges, and a social awareness of the world around them; all qualities expected by university admissions teams.

Many independent schools offer dedicated careers teams, who will discuss your child’s university options, enabling them to make the best choices possible for their future success and happiness. As your child progresses through the public examination years, having someone to guide them through their choice of subjects can make or break their application. The most competitive courses - Law, Medicine, and Economics - require you to take a specific set of A Levels just to apply. Excellent pastoral care can also ensure the whole UCAS process won’t seem as daunting. Students often receive oneto-one attention from tutors who know them personally, producing stronger and more successful applications.

Choosing an independent school means more than ensuring your child has access to the best facilities and educational support, it is an investment in their future that will develop the life-skills they will need for future successes, and greatly increase their chance of securing a place at a coveted university.

The Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School Butterfly Lane, Elstree, Hertfordshire WD6 3AF Open Day Saturday 5th October 1-4pm Telephone: 020 8266 1700 Email: office@habsboys.org.uk www.habsboys.org.uk

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

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from learning in a multi-sensory way. The negative side of dyslexia is so often emphasised but what of the strengths? We bring out pupils’ creativity and the wonderful visual sense that many dyslexics possess if properly nurtured. Our exciting displays of art work and design technology projects are a feature of the school.

airley House, described in the sunday Times as ‘The Gold standard’ is london’s leading day school for children with specific learning difficulties.

We offer an education almost unique in that educational Psychologists, with speech, language and Occupational Therapists are integrated into the school curriculum. We enjoy a central london location with excellent facilities such as a science laboratory, art room and outdoor play space. Fairley House addresses the difficulties of children between 5 and 14 with dyslexia and dyspraxia.

Children’s learning styles have often not been catered for in their previous school, leading to failure and loss of confidence, but Fairley House offers them a ‘level playing field’ where everyone has similar difficulties.

Children receive a rich, stimulating educational experience integrated with therapy and specialist teaching.

Teaching is multi-sensory and children learn science, spelling, Geography and History through interesting, hands-on activities. There is a staff: pupil ratio of 1: 3.5. The average stay is two to three years after which children return to mainstream schooling with a new ‘can do’ attitude.

A full range of sport is available at Fairley House school, including touch rugby, football, netball, hockey and cricket. We use Battersea Park as well as the Queen Mother’s sports hall and swimming pool. We play fixtures against other schools and our after school clubs offer a wide range of activities.

Fairley House School LONDON’S GOLD STANDARD

Our teaching is different. Children with specific learning difficulties benefit

At Fairley House our intention is to provide your son or daughter with an educational experience which rivals that of any mainstream independent school.

We aim to develop children’s confidence and self-esteem, enabling their talent and enthusiasm to grow and shine. We emphasise the development of the whole child, helping him or her to gain confidence and self-esteem through an encouraging and nurturing ethos. The children have opportunities to develop sound academic and social skills and to become independent. At Fairley House, everyone succeeds.

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

Promoting independent learning At St. Helen’s girls are encouraged to take an active involvement in their learning as part of a broad education that promotes independent learning and creative thinking.

Independent Learning Weeks are a regular feature of the curriculum, enabling girls to work individually, and as part of a team, to produce pieces of work that they can be really proud of by taking control of their own learning. Further up the school there are opportunities for students to develop their critical thinking skills through activities such as the Year 9 Enquiry project where girls undertake individual student-led research on a topic of their choice.

the skills and knowledge that will equip them for the challenges of life after school. All students are encouraged to take responsibility for their learning through effective planning of their time and a critical approach to their studies.

Outside the classroom, a varied extra-curricular programme offers opportunities to develop key skills and to build confidence. Girls are encouraged to develop leadership skills and take the initiative through activities such as the Combined Cadet Force, operated jointly with Merchant Taylors’ School, or by taking on roles of responsibility within the school community.

Sixth Form students are encouraged to stretch themselves academically and to acquire

By developing those core skills, upon leaving St. Helen’s, each girl is confident, self-reliant and independent, ready to take their place in the adult world.

Open Morning Wednesday 19th June 2013 9.30am - 12.00pm Our staff and pupils are delighted to welcome all prospective pupils and parents.

By appointment only - please contact the Admissions Secretary

• Focus on the individual • Excellent academic record • Impressive range of extra curricular activities • Scholarships offered: academic, art, music and sport at 11+ • 20 acre parkland site • Bursaries available

St. Helen’s is adjacent to Northwood station (Metropolitan Line), 30 minutes from Baker Street, and coaches are available from many locations, including Barnet, Radlett and St. Albans.

An independent day school for girls aged 3 to 18

14 APRIL 2013

St. Helen’s School Eastbury Road Northwood Middlesex HA6 3AS Tel: 01923 843230 admissions@sthn.co.uk

www.sthn.co.uk

E DUCAT I O N L I F E

Across the pond: Study in the US

A

pplying to ‘college’ (university) in the USA used to be rare amongst British students – perhaps the preserve of students with sports scholarships or parents with deep pockets.

However, the recent rise of tuition fees in the UK, combined with the financial aid packages available at some US colleges, mean that the difference in cost between studying in the UK and USA is becoming much smaller. In some cases, crossing the pond will enable a student to emerge after four years with a good Bachelors degree, an international CV and little or no debt.

While tuition fees in the USA can be even higher than the UK – £9,000 per year is about average – tuition and living costs can be offset by grants provided by many colleges, some of which are available to British students. Harvard, Yale, Princeton, MIT, Dartmouth and Amherst are the most generous to international students. In practice, families with incomes of less than £40,000 per annum will often get all costs paid by these colleges, including tuition, food, accommodation, books and a travel allowance for two trips home a year. Families with higher incomes also receive means-tested grants, and even a salary of £110,000 will attract aid. In addition, about 60 other US colleges also provide at least some financial aid to international applicants. As the aid is usually in the form of grants, not loans, the money does not have to be paid back in most cases.

But there are many other good reasons to study in the USA besides finance. By far the most important factor to UK students is the broad ‘liberal arts’ curriculum that is followed in most US colleges. Unlike in the UK, there is no need to commit to one or two subjects to study when you apply. In the USA, apart from a small core curriculum, you can study whatever you like for the first 18 months. This is ideal for those students who are keen to explore new interests before choosing which subjects to study in more depth.

American universities also seek to educate the ‘whole person’. As such, extracurricular activities are considered an integral part of a student’s experience, rather than ancillary to the main business of education, as they are often viewed in the UK. A large US college will have around 400 recognised student clubs, including sports teams, performing arts groups, international groups, religious groups, community service groups, and newspaper and magazine publications. The emphasis on holistic education is reflected in the application process, where extracurricular achievement is valued just

as much as academic ability and you will be asked to explain how you intend to contribute to college life.

Finally, an important reason to study in the USA is that you will acquire a more global outlook. Students from all over the world study in the USA and your multicultural experience will be valued by future employers. Global companies look to hire graduates who can communicate in a variety of contexts and with different people. What better way to demonstrate an understanding that the world really is getting smaller than by studying abroad? You will also build up a global network of contacts, useful in anything you go on to do later in your career.

Natalie is the founder of MyUniApplication.com. She can guide you with all aspects of both US and UK university applications and give you expert guidance on your application essays and personal statement. She also offers interview preparation and SAT/ACT preparation classes.

MyUniApplication.com Top tips for applying to US colleges:

1. Research the US colleges thoroughly and create a shortlist.

2. Allow plenty of time to draft and redraft your application essays and show it to your family, your teachers, and, if possible, a specialist.

3. Practise taking the standardised tests (SATs or ACTs), an important part of your application.

4. Calculate the net cost of your education, taking account of tuition fees, living costs and financial aid.

5. Investigate if there are any scholarships for which you can apply, for example, in music or sport.

6. Talk to a professional adviser such as Natalie Lancer, for guidance in putting together a successful application For more information, contact Natalie Lancer on 07747 612 513 or at info@myuniapplication.com. www.myuniapplication.com APRIL 2013 15

MTS

Merchant Taylors’ School Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561 1561

Open Morning

May 11th 2013 10.00 - 12.30

Wouldn’t you prefer a London school in the country?

25 minutes from Finchley Road or Marleybone is: • A ‘Top Ten’ boys’ school • ‘Outstanding’ - 2008 School Inspection • Inspirational teaching • Unique tutorial system • Civilized, friendly & unpressured • Small class sizes • Magnificent sports fields • Superb facilities set in 250 acres

• 2014 Registration: 13+ June 30 2013 11+ November 30 2013 16+ December 31 2013 • Bursaries • Academic, Art, Drama, Sport and Music Scholarships

Getting here • Car MTS is 15 minutes from the M1, the M25 and the A40 • Coaches Beaconsfield, Ealing, Harpenden, Harrow, Highgate, Mill Hill, Radlett, Stanmore • Transit MTS is adjacent to Moor Park (Metropolitan Line)

Chiltern line trains change at Rickmansworth.

Marylebone trains change at Harrow

Guided tours (last tour 11.30) The Head Master speaks at 11.15 and 12.15

www.mtsn.org.uk

Please contact Penny Wright, Admissions Secretary admissions@mtsn.org.uk +44(0)1923 845514 Merchant Taylors’ School Northwood Middlesex HA6 2HT

Excellence, integrity and distinction since 1561.

For boys 11 - 18

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EV E N TS

One the cap of most in ital’s and m timate eclecticusically festival s Evenin g Standa rd

Hampton Court Palace Festival 13TH - 24TH JUNE 2013

Sir Cliff Richard, Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons, Russell Watson, Lisa Stansfield, Imelda May, Jools Holland, Joe Bonamassa & Beth Hart, Björn Again and the Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra

H

istoric Royal Palaces and PWR Events are delighted to announce the complete line-up of performers for this year’s Hampton Court Palace Festival, featuring artists from the world of rock, pop, jazz and classical music. British icon, Sir Cliff Richard, will be this year’s headline artist and will sing in the stunning open-air court of King Henry VIII’s Palace for two nights - Saturday 22nd & Sunday 23rd June. Having established himself as one of Europe’s authentic rock ‘n’ roll stars and selling a staggering 250 million records to date, Cliff will delight the audience with his spectacular live performance of best loved classics and new songs.

Following a sensational sell out performance last year, which marked their UK comeback after a 20 year break, the Festival is delighted to welcome back Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, one of America’s most successful pop and rock group from the 1960s. The group will give fans another chance to hear many of their classic hits such as Big

52 APRIL 2013

Girls Don’t Cry, Walk Like A Man, Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You, Bye, Bye, Baby (Baby Goodbye) and December 1963 (Oh What A Night).

The UK’s best ever selling classical artist Russell Watson will also be performing with his orchestra. Having won four Classical BRITS, Russell will perform many of his well-known songs including those from ‘Anthems’, his most recent album release. Russell’s special guests will be Amore, the stunning classical vocal quartet.

They are also delighted to host the incredible Lisa Stansfield for her only London date this year. A multi Brit Award winner, Lisa has sold over 20 million records throughout her career. Best known for her smash hits All Around the World, So Natural and All Woman, the audience will be treated to her greatest hits. Lisa said: “After having such a great time last year in the UK with my three sold out shows, I’m so excited to be touring once again and I cannot wait to perform at Hampton Court Palace this June!”

EV E N TS

FRANK VALLI & THE FOUR SEASONS

IMELDA MAY

JOOLS HOLLAND

Bringing 50s glamour and rock ‘n’ roll to the Festival is the hugely popular singer Imelda May. With a triple platinum album under her belt and gold certified album Mayhem, Imelda will wow the audience with her powerful vocal.

Incredible blues rock duo, Joe Bonamassa and Beth Hart, will make their Festival debut this year. One of the world’s greatest guitar players and a child prodigy, Joe Bonamassa was opening shows for blues icon B.B. King by the age of 12. Singer-songwriter Beth Hart is known for her powerful vocals and soul-baring performances. Beth and Joe will feature songs from their highly anticipated second album due to be released in May, alongside selections from their critically acclaimed debut duo album, Don’t Explain. Beth and Joe are very excited by their new project and plan to bring their individual virtuoso strengths to a grand live stage in the beautiful setting of Hampton Court Palace.

The internationally acclaimed Björn Again, will bring a night of ABBA fun to the Festival.

Designed as a rocked-up, light-hearted show, it rapidly achieved world-wide cult status and was acknowledged for single-handedly initiating the ABBA revival which brought about ABBA Gold, Muriel’s Wedding and MAMMA MIA! The enduring appeal of ABBA is reflected in the ongoing success of the Björn Again show, having amassed 5,000 performances in 71 countries in 25 years.

Now a veteran of the Hampton Court Palace Festival, Jools Holland will be one of the highlights of their summer concerts. His passion for music has made him a doyen of the music scene, and he was awarded an OBE in 2003 for his services to the British music industry. Jools’ phenomenal success has seen him sell millions of records throughout the course of his career and he holds the unique status of performing with musicians who have achieved success in every decade of the 20th Century. Special guests include the fantastic former Squeeze drummer Gilson Lavis, Roland Gift (the voice of Fine Young Cannibals) and Ruby Turner who together with Jools and his fantastic Rhythm & Blues Orchestra will raise the roof of the magnificent Palace once again.

The Royal Philharmonic Concert Orchestra also returns to the Festival for another spectacular classical evening. The Orchestra will perform scores from the mainstream masters of classical music: Handel’s Music for the Royal Fireworks to Tchaikovsky’s waltz; from Swan Lake to Ravel’s Bolero. Young and upcoming trumpeter Melissa Venema from the Netherlands will perform the ever popular classic, Haydn’s Trumpet Concerto. There will be a long interval so that Festival-goers can enjoy their picnics and Champagne in the Palace Gardens as the sun sets. A fireworks display will provide a visual fanfare to round off this superb evening.

In addition to the music, Hampton Court Palace Festival is renowned for creating a truly unforgettable experience. Artists perform in the

LISA STANSFIELD

RUSSELL WATSON

historic main courtyard of the magnificent Tudor Palace providing an intimate atmosphere for an audience of 3,000. Corporate hospitality is available in the State Apartments and Festivalgoers can also arrive early (doors open at 5pm) to enjoy picnics, courtesy of Jamie Oliver’s Fabulous Feasts, on the Palace Garden lawn or underneath a luxury waterside gazebo before the show.

To hear further announcements please register on www. hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com or follow us on twitter @HCPfestival.

PWR Events are unique creators, producers and promoters of large scale public events at prestigious venues, working with organisations such as Royal Parks, World Heritage Sites, Historic Royal Palaces, Manchester United FC, Corporation of London and the Royal Botanic Gardens Kew. Events include: Hyde Park Winter Wonderland, Hampton Court Palace, Tower of London, Windsor, Greenwich, Manchester United FC and Hampstead Heath Ice Rinks, The Royal Windsor and Greenwich Observation Wheels and Hampton Court, Greenwich and Windsor Beer & Jazz Festivals.

Historic Royal Palaces is the independent charity that looks after the Tower of London, Hampton Court Palace, Banqueting House, Kensington Palace and Kew Palace, exploring the story of how monarchs and people have shaped society, in some of the greatest palaces ever built. They receive no funding from the Government or the Crown, so depend on the support of visitors, members, donors, volunteers and sponsors. These palaces are owned by The Queen on behalf of the nation, and they manage them for the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport. www.hrp.org.uk

Registered charity number 1068852

More information FESTIVAL DATES LOCATION BOOK TICKETS FOLLOW US DATE 13th June 14th June 15th June 16th June 19th June 20th June 21st June 22nd June 23rd June 24th June

Thursday 13th to Monday 24th June 2013 Hampton Court Palace, Surrey, KT8 9AU www.hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com www.facebook.com/#!/HamptonCourtPalaceFestival and @HCPFestival

ARTIST TIME Jools Holland 9.00pm Lisa Stansfield 9.00pm Fanfare & Fireworks 7.30pm with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Russell Watson 7.30pm Imelda May 9.00pm Bjorn Again 9.00pm Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons 9.00pm Sir Cliff Richard 9.00pm Sir Cliff Richard 9.00pm Joe Bonamassa and Beth Hart 9.00pm

TICKET PRICES £45 and £50 £45 and £50 £45 and £50 £45 and £50 £40 and £45 £32.50 and £37.50 £60 and £75 £60 and £70 £60 and £70 £45 and £52.50

APRIL 2013 53

100

F E AT U R E

Years of The Chelsea Flower Show TUESDAY 21st MAY UNTIL SATURDAY 25th MAY 2013

Centenary-themed gardens and exhibits feature at world-famous event

N

owhere makes gardening more fashionable than the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. A catwalk of colour and creativity, the latest trends and the pinnacle of garden design make this show the one the world wants to see. The creme de la creme of the gardening world will be wowing visitors so make sure you’re there to enjoy gardening at its most gorgeous and glamorous. The RHS Chelsea Flower Show, sponsored by M&G Investments, is back and is celebrating its centenary year in a spectacular show brimming with colour and creativity. This year’s show offers visitors 15 spectacular Show Gardens, 11 Fresh Gardens – the best of contemporary

garden design – and eight Artisan Gardens. In addition, 150 exhibits from nurseries and florists in the Great Pavilion and up to 250 trade stands means the centenary RHS Chelsea Flower Show will be one not to miss.

Established in 1913 on the grounds of the Royal Hospital, Chelsea, the show has become one of the most celebrated annual events in the world and is now hailed as the catwalk of the gardening world.

Since its beginning, the show has grown from 244 exhibitors in 1913 to more than 500 today. It now attracts 161,000 visitors each year and brings the world’s best horticulture to the heart of London.

APRIL 2013 55

F E AT U R E

Many exhibitors are celebrating the show’s special year with centenarythemed displays. The M&G Centenary Garden will celebrate and capture the design trends and themes of RHS Chelsea Flower Shows past and present.

This year’s Generation Gardens will highlight the changes to gardens and gardening over the last 100 years, and a special RHS Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Centenary will be decided by a public vote.

A concert, hosted with Opera Holland Park, will be held on the Friday evening as part of the centenary celebrations, and visitors to the show will be able to take a walk through the show’s history, with photographic displays from the archives of the RHS Lindley Library.

Other exhibits to look out for this year include Delancey’s East Village, a garden modelled on London’s Olympic Park. Prince Harry’s charity, Sentebale, is exhibiting for the first time in collaboration with B&Q, while Arthritis Research UK’s garden reflects the personal journey and emotions of someone with arthritis.

The Artisan Retreats will also return for a second year to the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. Here visitors can relax among beautiful summerhouses decorated by top UK designers and artists, including Cath Kidston,

56 APRIL 2013

Hemmingway Design, Rob Ryan, Pippa Small and the London College of Fashion.

As well as all this there are spectacular floristry displays and gardening advice from RHS experts, The RHS Chelsea Flower Show is renowned as the social event of the summer. There will be a wide range of catering facilities at the show, of offering everything from a quick sandwich to a lavish three course meal, and there are plenty of shopping opportunities, with a wide range of beautiful accessories to decorate any garden and some of the newest and most innovative gardening products.

Gnomes at Centenary RHS Chelsea Flower Show.....

Gnomes to be auctioned for RHS Campaign for School Gardening The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) is lifting the ban on gnomes at RHS Chelsea Flower Show as part of the show’s centenary celebrations and to raise funds for the nationwide RHS Campaign for School Gardening. The RHS is inviting celebrities to paint and decorate gnomes to feature at the world famous gardening event, before auctioning the gnomes online to help more school kids to garden. For one year only the ‘celebrity gnomes’ will be on display at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, before being auctioned off via

Ebay for the RHS Campaign for School Gardening. Gnomes were banned from RHS Shows as they fall into the category of being ‘brightly coloured mythical creatures’, which is how the ban is implemented in RHS manuals.

So far Dame Maggie Smith, Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Julian Fellowes, Rob Brydon and Antonio Carluccio have confirmed that they will paint gnomes for the RHS Campaign for School Gardening. There are over 16,500 schools signed up to the RHS Campaign for School Gardening, engaging 3.5 million children with gardening and growing plants.

Last year an initiative called Pot Art at RHS Chelsea Flower Show, where pots were painted by a dozens of celebrities, including Dame Judi Dench, Jerry Hall, Joan Collins, Julian Fellowes and Alan Titchmarsh, raised £14k for the RHS Campaign for School.

About the RHS The Royal Horticultural Society was founded in 1804 by Sir Joseph Banks and John Wedgwood for the encouragement and improvement of the science, art and practice of horticulture. We held our first flower shows in 1820, were granted a Royal Charter in 1861 and acquired RHS Garden Wisley, the first of our gardens, in 1903. From our first meetings in a small room off London’s

Piccadilly, we have grown to become the world’s largest gardening charity.

Today the RHS is committed to providing a voice for all gardeners. We are driven by a simple love of plants and a belief that gardeners make the world a better place. 200 years on we continue to safeguard and advance the science, art and practice of horticulture, creating displays that inspire people to garden. In all aspects of our work we help gardeners develop by sharing our knowledge of plants, gardens and the environment.

RHS membership is for anyone with an interest in gardening. Support the RHS and secure a healthy future for gardening. For more information call: 0845 130 4646, or visit www.rhs.org.uk/join RHS Registered Charity No. 222879/SC038262

For more information The Chelsea Flower Show 2013 at Royal Hospital, Chelsea, London To buy tickets 0844 338 0338 Ticket prices range from £16-£55 for RHS members £22 - £49 for non-members.

All tickets must be bought in advance. www.rhs.org.uk/chelsea

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

FACIAL REJUVENATION WITH

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ith over 20 years experience in cosmetic medicine, Dr Peter Forrester has an integrated approach to facial rejuvenation using a combination of therapies.

Anti-wrinkle injections reduce frown lines and crow’s feet. With rapid, predictable results.

Clothes by Lily and Bow, Esher

Dermal Fillers – smooth deeper lines and furrows as well as returning lost volume to the face – the effect is immediate.

Facial Peels – help to return a healthy glow to dull, tired skin.

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

LED Therapy – uses light to energise and rejuvenate and repair skin. With no irritation or down time. It minimizes fine lines and wrinkles, firms skin, evens tone, soothes irritation and reduces acne outbreaks.

ThermaVein® – A breakthrough process that seals threadvein walls causing them to permanently disappear. No risk of bruising, scarring or pigmentation. Effective results are usually achieved in 20 minutes.

INTRAcel – is a more intensive treatment combining micro-needling and radiofrequency to improve the tone and texture of skin, reduce wrinkles, tighten jowls and neck.

These include anti-wrinkle injections, dermal fillers, precision peels, UV light treatments, INTRAcel, ThermaVein® and state of the art skincare. After your consultation an individual treatment programme will be developed specifically for your needs.

Treatments are selected to produce the very best results with rapid recovery and minimal down time. All treatments are medically endorsed and based on proven scientific principles.

Advanced Skin Care – Cut out the buzzwords, bogus claims and miracle ingredients – The Cosmetic Doctors Company has a very different approach to skincare. Using ZO Skin Health - scientific products offering rapid results – with concentrated formulas if you want something more than feel-good, smell-nice lotions – Dr Peter Forrester will formulate a unique skincare regime for you ensuring the best possible results.

ThermaVein N o down time T reats any skin type I n most cases - only one treatment required N o side effects

before treatment

after treatment

58 APRIL 2013

SPECIAL OFFER

20%

discount off ThermaVein treatment booked in April or May Terms and conditions apply

For a free consultation by appointment only telephone 01372 890 890 6 Esher Park Avenue Esher, Surrey KT10 9NP www.drforrester.co.uk enquiries@drforrester.co.uk

Contemporary Luxury Fashion Established 1954

Brioni, Sand Casual Jacket & Messori Silk Shirt

Jacob Cohen, Limited Edition Jeans - 59 of 84

T. 01932 863841 Clovelly House, 7, Between Streets Cobham, Surrey KT11 1AA

HOURS OF BUSINESS Monday- Saturday 9.30am - 5.15pm

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

GetwithFuzz-Free NEW Pain-Free Motif laser hair removal

Brazilian Dermatologist Dr Ariel Haus introduces new Motif laser hair removal into his Harley Street clinic.

Pain-Free... Proven, Effective, Predictable Results...

Treats any Skin Colour... Combines Laser with Radio Frequency

O

ffering a new gold standard in Hair Removal, Dr Haus is proud to unveil the launch of the new pain-free laser hair removal system powered by elos® from aesthetic leaders Syneron Candela. This new laser features the combined energy technology of laser diode light (810nm) and Radio Frequency treating all skin types and colours, resulting in long term hair removal in little as 4-6 treatments!

The ‘ouch’ factor For maximum comfort, the special Dynamic Cooling Device cools and protects the skin’s surface.

Motif’s Deep Dermal Penetration means longer lasting results and all hair types and most hair colours including fine facial hair, can be treated! Ladies across the country can now breathe a sigh of relief when discovering that Motif uses a fast-acting, Contact Cooling Device which makes the treatment comfortable! The laser head gently glides over skin offering a warm massage sensation, with very little sensation of hair being zapped.

Dr Haus’ Fuzz Free Fact File 6 Weeks = the time between body hair treatments 6 = average number of treatments needed for the body 5 Minutes = average time to treat the underarm area 11,540 = times women shave their legs during their lifetime £12,000 = studies show that the average woman spends this much in her lifetime on shaving and hair removal products 9 Months = ahead of when you want to be fuzz free by to get started on laser hair removal treatment 72 Hours = before your first treatment have a patch test Don’t wax between laser treatments – only shave

Why choose Motif over traditional hair removal treatments?

Because Motif harnesses Radio Frequency to boost the light energy, it is highly effective, extremely fast and very comfortable compared to traditional laser hair removal.

Dr Ariel Haus, Dr Haus Dermatology, 10 Harley Street, London W1G 9PF Telephone 020 7323 6559 www.drhausdermatology.com

60 APRIL2013

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Luxury Residential Care on Silvermere Lake Silvermere, our new flagship care home, brings to the Cobham and Weybridge districts a home of unrivalled luxury, overlooking Silvermere Lake and the adjoining Silvermere Golf Club.

The home has been developed by award winning Avery Healthcare, a care provider with a portfolio of established residential care homes across the UK. This vibrant home, set amongst pleasant woodland, offers the highest standards of living. Call Lesley Loizou if you would like to know more.

Silvermere Care Home Redhill Road | Cobham | Surrey | KT11 1EF Telephone 01932 576650 enquiries.silvermere@averyhealthcare.co.uk www.silvermerecarehome.co.uk

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Run for success The London Marathon has grown into one of the world’s truly iconic races, whether running on behalf of a charity, or trying to beat a personal best, running the Virgin London Marathon is a sensational and life-changing experience.

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or many people, running a marathon is a lifetime ambition with months of hard training going into an immense 26.2 mile race. Offering wonderful scenery, supportive crowds, and even the possibility of appearing on national television, the Virgin London Marathon boasts the best possible backdrop to an inspiring and life-affirming event that will stay with runners forever.

Each year the London Marathon creates thousands of inspiring charity stories, as runners in fancy dress costumes fight against the odds to complete the epic race and meet their fundraising promises.

With large crowds cheering them on to glory, it can be an emotional experience for all.With its perfect combination of inspirational charity stories, inclusivity and ever-enthusiastic spectators, there has never been a better time to run the Virgin London Marathon. In offering a breathtaking experience for running beginners and professionals alike. But with any form of competitive sport or taking part just for fun, training and preparation is crucial.

Running is one of life’s great simplicities. It’s easy to just buy some running shorts and trainers, and get out of the door whenever you can.

Unfortunately, there is a little more to it than that! Running is one of the best forms of exercise, not only for getting fit but for weight control too. A 30-minute run, three to four times a week, trims your waistline, strengthens the cardiovascular system, improves muscle tone and definition, and installs a positive mental attitude. Running can also be a great social activity.

Here is some essential running advice that you may need in the key areas of training, clothing, shoes and injury prevention.

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Training Stage One Make sure you warm up, stretch and cool down for every run.

Don’t make the mistake of trying to do too much running too soon. Start off very gently and remember that if you cannot hold a conversation when you are running, you are pushing yourself too hard.

Don’t worry about how hard you are running or whether you are doing enough, just get out and establish the routine first. After about a month of your training, your consistency should start to feel like a habit.

Stage Two At this point you might consider about involving a professional. Find a recommended personal trainer to progress your running training at the right rate for you. If you don’t belong to a gym then find a freelance trainer that will come out to your house. This doesn’t have to be incredibly expensive just a couple of visits and they will write you a plan and show you different running techniques.

Set yourself a running goal! This will be great for your motivation.

Beginners are advised to start off with a 5k race as their first goal.

Alternatively, you could download a running training plan compiled by a professional coach to get you started.

Running shoes Buying a pair of running shoes can be a daunting task. There are

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

hundreds of pairs on the market and unfortunately it’s not just a case of buying a pair that feel comfortable and look cool. Here are some top tips to help you get the right pair: Forget the colour of the running shoes. Prioritise with fit, function and feel.

Don’t buy the running shoes your friends have always run in, they may not be right for you.

Take advice from a knowledgeable expert. Only buy running shoes after you’ve tried them on.

Keep your feet dry. Running-specific socks will help stop moist or sweaty feet from blistering.

Gait analysis will show how you move. Use this to hone your footwear purchase, learn about where your technique can be more efficient, and understand what preventative maintenance is required to prevent injury.

Footbed? This can be added to enhance the support that the shoe offers and help with knee, hip and back alignment when running.

Running clothing As a new runner, the first words you should add to your running clothing vocabulary are ‘wick’ and ‘wicking’. This is how fabric deals with the moisture (i.e. the sweat) the body creates. A good piece of running clothing must transport moisture away from the body towards the outside environment, so even with intensive sweating you can feel comfortable and dry. The piece of clothing should also be able to regulate body temperature; this doesn’t mean it comes with a hot or cold switch that you can turn off and on at your leisure!

You should try to layer your clothing so you’re able to adapt to the weather as it changes.

Nutrition for runners At first, you do not need to make radical changes to your diet.

However, as your training increases, it will place additional nutritional demands on your body. You need to fuel your body with the right, nutritious and balanced diet to provide it with all the essential nutrients it requires to enable you to perform at your best.

During running exercise the working muscles use stored energy, and the two main fuels the body has stored are carbohydrate and fat. The body’s reserves of carbohydrate (glycogen in the muscles) are limited, but the body’s reserves of fat are less limited. When you become tired it is usually to do with the depletion of the glycogen reserves in the muscles.

Carbohydrate is the most important fuel for an active person, starting out running. It is stored in the muscles as glycogen. To maintain your energy stores you need to keep your glycogen stores topped up each day. The best way to do this is to have a low-fat, high-carbohydrate snack or light meal two to three hours before exercise, and then your stomach has time to empty before physical activity. Start refuelling your energy stores as soon as you have finished exercising - how much you need will depend on the length of time you have been exercising.

It is really important to drink before, during and after a run - waiting until you are thirsty is not advisable, as you will be dehydrated by then.

For most active people, selecting a wide variety of foods from each of the five major foods groups will ensure an adequate consumption of all the essential nutrients required by the body.

Injury prevention for runners Many people start running with the greatest of intentions, only to be struck down by injury a few weeks into their training regime. This is an unfortunate and unnecessary setback, which can be prevented or at least the risk reduced, by taking a few simple precautionary steps: Ensure you are running in the correct running shoes for your running style and bodyweight.

Always carry out a thorough warm up before exercise, which should leave you slightly sweaty and your body prepared for the upcoming activity.

Ensure correct and adequate stretching is incorporated into your training regime, including at least one session of stretching away from your running sessions. Avoid the temptation to run too far and too fast before your body is ready for it; overloading the tissues, can lead to injury.

Seek advice with regards to your correct running posture and any muscle imbalances. It’s easier to prevent an injury than it is to treat one once it has occurred.

This also means that you don’t have to take time out of your fitness regime to recover, and spares you all that pain!

Be sensible, literally taking one step at a time. If you are aiming to race, start with a 5k, then you can progress to a 10 mile race, Half Marathon and if you are aiming for the top, the Virgin London Marathon is perfect.

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H E A LT H & B E AU T Y

Nail that statement look

BUY IT NOW Turn your dressing table into a gallery with DKNY’s limited edition Art. Each statement box and lid is marked with an iconic design inspired by Keith Haring. Be Delicious Art Keith Haring EDP is available in Be Delicious, Golden Delicious or Fresh Blossom, £36 each for 50ml. Available nationwide from April.

All images: PA Photo/Handout

Bring out your inner van Gogh with your nail polish. Lisa Haynes reveals DIY techniques to create mini-masterpieces for your talons

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ude nails are a big trend this season, but if you want an antidote to the sea of bland talons then it’s time to get flamboyant. Nail art has taken the beauty industry by storm with a palette of paints and endless tools to create modern masterpieces. “It’s OK if you weren’t the most talented

64 APRIL 2013

student in your school art classes, and you don’t have the steadiest of hands,” assures Danielle Black, co-author of new book Polish You Pretty. “All you need is a little practice and the right tools.”

Forget jewellery, shoes and bags, and make nail art your showstopping accessory.

Talon tricks Transform your coffee table into a DIY nail bar and don’t panic if you’re lacking a rainbow spectrum of enamel colours.“You can achieve great nail art designs with a few simple colours but essential shades include a neutral, a white and a black,” says Black. “When buying polishes, look for flat, creamy, opaque colours rather than sheer shades.” Start off simple and if you want to create more elaborate designs, invest in nail art brushes to achieve a more technical finish. Topshop has a full set for £7 (www.topshop.com). Dotting tools give you professional results if you’re looking to create small circles. Amazon.co.uk has a great, affordable selection but filed-down cocktail sticks/toothpicks or the end of a hairpin also work. One thing you need on your side with nail art is time. Before you even start on your design, you need to apply a base coat to give the nail polish a good foundation and avoid chips. Once your art attack is complete, allow to dry and then seal your design with a top coat for extra longevity.

Beauty bulletin Just brow-sing Put down the tweezers and cancel that threading appointment. Big brows are back. Thanks to caterpillar brow coverage of Fashion Week’s busiest model, Cara Delevingne, and fellow bushy brigade celebs, emphasising your arches has never been more in vogue, and sales of eyebrow makeup at John Lewis are up 34% compared to this time last year.

Recessionista alert

Guard against pesky April showers with Estee Lauder’s umbrella offer. Get a glam striped brolly free with the purchase of any Estee Lauder women’s fragrance, 50ml or larger (excluding gift sets), priced from £36.50 at The Perfume Shop while stocks last (www.theperfumeshop.com).

Polish You Pretty by Jenny Stencel and Danielle Black is published by Ryland Peters & Small, priced £9.99 in hardback.

Available now.

ARTY NAILS Polishyoupretty.com nail bloggers Jenny Stencel and Danielle Black guide you through five of their finger master strokes.

1. Ode to ombre

If you’re new to nail art, impress with an ombre affair. This simple graduated two-tone look works well with a variety of shades but contrasting neutral and black is uber-chic.

• Paint your nails with two coats of neutral polish.

• Once dry, put sticky tape around your nails to allow for an easy clean-up.

• Cut a make-up sponge into thin slices. Dip the sponge into a dark nail polish, then dab the sponge on a piece of scrap paper to remove excess polish.

• Dab your sponge onto the tip of each nail, starting with a heavier pressure and getting lighter as you get closer to the base.

• Repeat with all your nails, making sure all the tips are a solid colour.

2. Half moon

Otherwise known as the reverse mani, this dramatic look puts the focus on your cuticles.

While the traditional French flaunts white nail tips, the half moon uses contrasting colours with a darker shade at the cuticles.

• Paint your nails with one coat of a light or metallic shade.

• Using a nail art brush dipped in your chosen dark polish, paint a ‘U’ shape around the base of each of your nails.

• Using the brush from the polish bottle, fill in the rest of all your nails with the dark polish, leaving the pale half moons at the base of each nail.

3. Spotty chic

Go dotty for a playful spot print manicure. Experiment with different colour combinations but pure white makes a fresh spring backdrop.

• Paint your nails with two coats of white polish and allow to dry.

• Using a large dotting tool, dip in a bright shade and dot four large polka dots down the middle of each nail.

• Using a medium dotting tool, dip in a contrasting bright polish and dot six medium polka dots on either side of the large middle row.

• Using a small dotting tool, dip in a third contrasting bright polish and dot a tiny row of red spots on both outer edges of each of your nails.

• Finish by placing a tiny dot in the middle of each of the large dots and allow to dry.

4. Flower power

Floral prints are blooming in fashion so don’t neglect your nails from the fauna trend.

Demonstrate green-fingered qualities with a pretty peony design.

• Paint your nails with two base coats of light green polish, such as teal.

• Dip a nail art brush into the pink polish and paint four large, slightly imperfect dots on each of your nails. Allow to dry and clean the brush with nail polish remover.

• Dip the nail art brush into a red polish and paint small semi-circles around three sides of the dots, dragging one line into the middle of each dot and dry.

• Dip the nail art brush into a dark green polish and paint small leaves around the peonies (in the spaces surrounding the flowers).

5. Monochrome mode

Accessorise your party frock with well-dressed fingertips. The tuxedo look works this season’s black and white craze, as sported by Zooey Deschanel on last year’s Golden Globes red carpet.

• Paint your nails all over with two coats of white polish and allow to dry.

• Take the black polish and, using a nail art brush, start two-thirds of the way up one side of each nail and paint a thin diagonal line up to the centre tip.

• Repeat the process on the opposite side of the nail to create a ‘V’ shape.

• Using the brush from the polish bottle, fill in the triangle to create the jacket of the tuxedo.

• Using a dotting tool, make three dots down the centre of each nail to create buttons.

• Take a very fine nail art brush and create a figure of eight shape at the base middle of each nail to make a bow tie shape.

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F EEAT H A LT UR HE& B E AU T Y

Care you’ll feel right at home with Crown Home Care is a Hampshire-based, independent, family run and private home care services provider with over 30 years of experience to offer you.

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e provide an extensive selection of high quality, flexible, responsive and cost effective in home care services for elderly, vulnerable and young clients. Our solutions range from one hour visits for personal care and companionship, to more complex assistance including nutritional support, skin management and palliative help right through to 24 hour a day live in care.

A person centred, personal service Our care is all about you. Your wishes, along with those of your family and your supporting health and social agencies, are paramount. Our aim is to empower you to enjoy your home, your independence and your inclusion in your community to the full.

How we can help you Lesley Packham qualified as a nurse in 1978 and a midwife 1980, and has worked and held management roles in leading local hospitals, nursing homes and care agencies. Lesley founded Crown Home Care to offer clients and their loved ones the kind of care she and her team would want to receive in their own homes.

Lesley leads a talented, capable, compassionate and focused team who work to deliver the Crown Home Care difference to every one of our clients, their families and healthcare professionals.

Our care options include Daily care, occasional help and social support – a wide range of ways in which we can help you maintain your independence through help with bathing, toileting and dressing; meal preparation and eating; shopping and light domestic duties; monitoring safety and medication; plus social, recreation and benefits collection support.

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Respite care – to give you a temporary break from caring because we fully understand the pressures of supporting a relative or friend.

Companionship service – from a few hours at a time upwards, this service is to help alleviate loneliness; it’s especially suited for clients who have just returned home from hospital.

Palliative care – skilled and sensitive end of life care for clients and their families to aid their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being.

Dementia care - professional, experienced and specialist home care – for a few hours a day to round the clock live-in support - for those suffering from this a complex disease.

Live in care – provides continual around the clock help, from simple companionship to more complex support, enabling you or a loved one to continue to live at home.

Help is at hand We know that the whole process of choosing and getting the best from a home care provide can seem complex, confusing and not a little daunting.

However, for your complete peace of mind, we are registered and regulated by the Care Quality Commission, the UK Home Care Association and Hampshire Domiciliary Association.

Please call us on 01252 844923 or email us on info@crown-homecare.com

F E AT U R E The UK’s leading innovator of quality bespoke doors and ironmongery.

We supply and install traditional and contemporary internal and external bespoke doors and ironmongery.

150ALP door in black stained oak with polished metal inlays

Please visit us at our NEW Esher showroom.

R109 - 4 panel door in walnut

New Esher Showroom NOW OPEN: Churston House, Portsmouth Road, Surrey, KT10 9AD. Tel: 01932 851081 Opening Times: Mon - Fri. 9.00am - 5.30pm Sat. - 10am - 4.00pm (Next to Cafe Rouge)

www.solidwoodendoors.com

APRIL 2013 67

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Show the yellow card

Ignore the freezing weather outside and turn on the sunshine indoors.

Gabrielle Fagan finds yellow packs a mighty decor punch All images: PA Photo/Handout

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e’re all suffering from a lack of sunshine. And while there’s no magic wand to change the murky outlook, you can set the forecast to ‘sunny’ by embracing the brightest trend on the decor horizon - yellow.

Warm, golden sandy tones, reminiscent of sun-drenched beaches, through to vibrant canary shades can’t fail to banish the gloom and bring light and cheer to dull rooms.

“After a prolonged period of cold, wintry weather, no other colour brings such an instant injection of warmth and sun to the home than carefully chosen shades of yellow,” says Rishi Subeathar, founder of

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eico, the environmentally-friendly paint specialists.

There’s a yellow shade to suit most discerning tastes and interiors.”

If you’re wedded to neutrals and even the thought of yellow has you wincing and reaching for your sunglasses (a Crown Paints survey found 35% of us are scared of using any kind of colour in our homes), it could be time to overturn your colour prejudice.

Yellows can be the perfect solution for dark hallways or small, light-deprived rooms, says Rebecca Thompson, colour and design manager for Dulux.

“It’s true that yellow needs to be used with care so that it doesn’t overwhelm, or look as though you’ve covered a room in custard!” acknowledges Subeathar.

“But all its shades are mood-enhancing, from sunflower brights to softer buttery pastels.

“Yellow, known for its optimism, has always been a popular shade and is associated with being clear, bright and uplifting,” she says.

“It reflects warmth, is said to encourage inspiration and expression, and is the perfect shade to energise while still being sophisticated.”

H OUS E & GA R D E N

So follow the experts’ advice on using the power of yellow to create sunny rooms in your home.

Yellow shake-up Making a statement in a room with a splash of yellow is one of the easiest ways to create a chic, modern setting.

“Paint a feature wall in a bold, bright citrus and then balance its intensity by using grey-based neutrals or subtle whites on the other walls,” suggests Subeathar.“If that’s too daring for your taste, simply use a deep yellow shade for alcoves to conjure depth and richness.” Alternatively, welcome spring and make an impact with a Daffodil wall mural, £79-£199, Digetex Home. It features giant yellow blooms on a white background, and a blind in the same design starts from £119. Once you’ve taken the colour plunge and established a zingy yellow backdrop, you could go one step further and pull the look together with furniture and accessories in complementary shades.

Sunshine buys Eico’s paint collection features vivid yellow shades including Miro, Haldi and Lemon, starting from £13.75 per litre. If you’re a fan of wallpaper, Next’s Ochre and Natural check wallpaper, £15 a roll, in pale yellow and grey is both subtle and stylish. Banish winter blues with Next accessories: an Ochre Felt sunflower cushion, £15, a ‘Good Day Sunshine’ cushion, £14, and ‘Smile’ decoration - a yellow-painted wooden word on a plinth, £10. Add a finishing touch on a wall with a ‘Fill Me With Sunshine’ art print, £49.95, Iapetus.

Mellow yellow Traditional settings benefit from more subtle yellow tones - from sand through to gold which add warmth and elegance.

“Soft buttery yellows are more in sympathy with the decor style of a period or country home and will conjure a restful and peaceful atmosphere set against ivory, beige or dark wood furnishings,” says Subeathar. “If you have existing soft furnishings, blinds or curtains in yellow, use these as the basis on which to choose your paint

shade, so that they complement each other and really pull the room together.”

Consider your shade choice carefully, he advises, as yellow can change in varying lights.“Use a tester pot and paint a piece of board and display it in different areas in a room, and study it at different times of the day. Yellows when applied can often seem brighter than they seem in the paint tin.”

Sunshine buys A pale primrose could suit a traditional room, and Dulux has a Wild Primrose which teams well with Malt Chocolate or Absolute White, in its Dulux Paint Mixing range, £14.89 a litre. Well-dressed windows always impress and Clarke & Clarke’s Venetian Silks, from £58 a metre, come in burnished yellows and golds.

Yellow magic Turning up the heat indoors needn’t mean altering the thermostat - simply add touches of punchy yellow to inject some sizzling energy throughout the house.

“Yellow can cover a wide range of shades from soft yellow and creams through to bright and bold daffodil or sunflower tones and the sharp acid yellows, and all will have impact,” says Lee Clarke, head designer at Clarke & Clarke. “The shades work particularly well in kitchens and breakfast rooms, especially those sunflower shades. Yellow can be paired with black monochromes or bold purples for a more dramatic statement in a bedroom.”

Sunshine buys Shutters transform a room, especially if they’re painted in a bold shade. The California Company has Privacy Slat Shutters available in a range of colours, from £186.06

per square metre. Jazz up a kitchen with a set of Pantone mugs in custard yellow, £10 each, and an Eames House of Cards birchwood Numbers Tray, £30, Whitbread Wilkinson.

Bright lightshades can instantly change the atmosphere of a room, and Bizz Egg Lanterns in Yellow & White, £49, Gong, have a sunny glow. Yellow is the ideal background for colourful floral patterns, and a Butterfly Blurr Cushion, £85, Rume, is stunning. If you can afford to splurge, a Delphine Harlequin Loren Chair, £695, Alexander & Pearl, is a beauty.

YELLOW SOURCES Alexander & Pearl: 020 8508 0411/www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk B&Q: 0845 850 0175/www.diy.com Clarke & Clarke: 0170 6242 010/www.clarke-clarke.co.uk Digetex Home: www.digetexhome.com Dulux: 0844 4817 817/dulux.co.uk Eico: www.eico.co.uk Gong: 020 7370 7176/www.gong.co.uk Iapetus: 0168 4566 929/www.iapetus.co.uk Ikea: www.ikea.com Laura Ashley: 0871 2302 301/www.lauraashley.com Marks & Spencer: 0845 302 1234/www.marksandspencer.com Next: 0844 844 8000/www.next.co.uk Rume: www.rume.co.uk Whitbreak Wilkinson: 020 7922 1444/www.w2products.com APRIL 2013 69

H OUS E & GA R D E N

IMAGES SASHA GUSOV

Nivin El-Gamal MY STYLE BY

Local entrepreneur and interior designer, Nivin El-Gamal, is the founder of Galaxy Stars, a bespoke interior design firm who have styled the interiors of foreign dignitaries and VIPs as well as working on a number of high-end commercial and residential projects in London.

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ivin grew up in Egypt, and was raised in palatial houses, an experience she drew upon when styling her sumptuous home in Victoria Square. She is also the former wife to Sheikh Ahmed Bi Saeed Al Maktoum, a man worth a reported $19bn and son of the former ruler of Dubai.

Ever since she was young, Nivin had a passion for art and design, gaining a degree in fine arts from Alexandria University before moving to London to study interior design at the American University. She founded her luxury interior design firm in 2006, with the business name derived from her childhood love of Galaxy chocolate. Since formation, the company has grown to 25 employees, servicing businesses and high profile individuals around the world.

Nivin says the key to become a successful interior is to understand the importance of catering to the client’s needs and not your own – a concept she feels others often struggle to grasp.

Nivin has just one simple rule, she comments, “All designs should incorporate Feng Shui. Any home without the correct layout and colours will always lack balance”. Nivin encourages her clients to tweak their interiors annually, in line with the changing Chinese New Year.

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She believes that in her industry you must never repeat your work and never have favourites, she says, “There is beauty in everything and whether I am designing a Dubai apartment - one of the most expensive in the world to rent - or a South London spa, my attention to every detail of the design concepts must remain throughout. If you start prioritising you work you need to look for another career”.

Nivin believes that colour is the single biggest consideration when designing an interior. She says, “Colours have a huge psychological impact on those around them, making us feel happy, sad, hungry and even tired, so choosing the right shades through a project has many considerations.

If you want a room to feel warm I love working with reds and yellows. For bathrooms and other rooms where a cooler feel is more suited I like using blues, indigos, violets and darker greens.“It’s also importance to balance the intensity of the colour, with intense bold colours working best alongside similarly intense options. Low-intensity colours are unobtrusive and perfect for creating tranquil rooms. “Understanding what each colour signifies, for example red can mean passion and yellow sunshine, is key to my work and absolutely essential in creating the right feel for a room and its purpose.”

www.galaxystars.co.uk

Graduate Landscapes Ltd

bespoke garden design, construction and maintenance

other services include:

swimming pools | tree surgery lighting | irrigation | green walls

We have over twenty years’ experience creating and nurturing stunning gardens. Whatever your requirements, we create the perfect solution for you and your family to enjoy for years to come. We apply the same exacting standards to every project, and offer a complete design, construction and maintenance service.

Visit our website to see a selection of our work and call us to arrange a free consultation.

London, Surrey, Sussex & Hampshire t. 01428 724080 www.graduatelandscapes.co.uk

H OUS E & GA R D E N

Achieving the lawn of your dreams!

The classic ornamental lawn is a thing of beauty; it has a very fine, uniform appearance, often compared to a bowling green.

T

his effect is not gained easily. The turf is composed of fine leaved compact grasses, such as bents and fescues. These require a good regime of maintenance, involving regular close mowing, feeding and treatment to avoid weeds. mosses, fungi and pests to keep it healthy and avoid coarser grasses such as ryegrass from taking over. A luxury lawn will not stand up to very

72 APRIL 2013

hard wear, such as children playing or in areas where there is regular traffic, such as pathways. Neither will it stand up to neglect such as irregular cutting and feeding.

A new lawn can be produced using either turf or grass seed. Whichever you use, choose a quality brand such as Barenbrug, who specialise in

H OUS E & GA R D E N

breeding quality grasses and formulating mixes. A sign of quality is the mixture being able to state not only that it contains, for example, a fescue but the cultivar of fescue. Establishment of a luxury lawn using seed is a long process, as the grasses used are slow growing. Luxury grade turf is therefore an expensive item when compared with more utilitarian turf. Preparation for seeding or turfing for a luxury lawn requires careful site preparation. There is no point trying to produce a luxury lawn on ground that suffers drought, waterlogging or is uneven.

It is therefore essential to plan well, soil that suffers waterlogging requires drainage, if it is prone to drying out, then pop up irrigation may be advisable. If the ground is uneven, not only will the effect be spoilt but also dips in the level will result in the grass being uneven allowing moss, weeds and ryegrass to establish.

For most people wanting this type of lawn, the investment in a good gardener who knows what they are doing with lawns is essential as maintenance is time consuming; for this look for a long established company.

If you would rather have a lawn which is for living on, rather than looking at, or conditions are not ideal and you are unable or unwilling to carry out the work necessary to change these, a more general purpose lawn is the type for you. This type of lawn does not require as exacting standards of preparation or maintenance, however the better you do both of these the better the lawn will look and wear.

A new lawn of this type is significantly cheaper to establish. The grass mixes will contain the fine leaved fescues and bents, but also dwarf type ryegrasses, which there are many types. The grasses will tend to grow quicker particularly during spring and will therefore require regular cutting. Keeping the grass cut will avoid the better quality

grasses being pushed out, by native coarser faster growing ones. If stripes are required this is still achievable using a quality mower with a heavy roller.

A second rate lawn can often be brought back to a good, although not quality, lawn without starting again; but it involves dealing with the problems that led to the lawn degenerating to this. Once you have discovered the problem, a remedy can be applied, although be prepared for a lengthy process.

There are a lot of different seed mixes available, choosing the right one is essential, if you require one for hardwearing, for areas prone to drought or shade, such as under trees, there are specialist mixes for these.

Any good garden retailer will be able to supply you with all the tools you require to produce the lawn of your dreams, whether it is a lawn feed, weedkiller or mosskiller, or a combination of all of them. Lawn feeds come in instant release forms, such as Empathy liquid lawn food and cheaper granular lawn feeds, for instant effect; as well as controlled release fertilisers, such as Scotts Lawn Builder, which avoids a surge in growth ideal for quality lawns. In addition you should be able to purchase products such as Bayer Lawn Disease Control to prevent and cure fungal diseases such as Red thread and fusarium: as well as Provado Lawn Grub Killer to control chafer grubs and leatherjackets, all of which can lead to patches in the lawn.

Happy Gardening!

A selection of these products are available from: www.plantsforall.co.uk.

APRIL 2013 73

H OUS E & GA R D E N

“We were very impressed by the choice Alhambra offers. We were also very pleased with the competitive price.”

Putting on a floor show Tiles are bursting out of the bathroom and kitchen to take centre stage in people’s homes. And where better to look than to Spain with its enchanting encaustic designs, delicate mosaics and modern monochrome patterns? on patchwork splashbacks and floors.” Patchworks aside, tile designs go from traditional to super-modern. An early project, based on a reclaimed design, was a retro daisy pattern for a family hallway. Later projects have included minimalist monochrome designs for bachelor pads and a fabulous hallway tiled with black and white diamonds, the showstopping entrance to a Buckinghamshire ‘grand design’ developed by architects Charlie Luxton and Takero Shimazaki.

A

lhambra Tiles is a young company well placed to meet demand. Attracted by the wonderful textures, soft colours and geometric and retro patterns, the Spanish-themed interiors shop began importing reclaimed hydraulic cement tiles* (better known as encaustic tiles) in 2010.

“They were really popular,” says proprietor Rebecca Leathlean,”but supplies were limited, so we returned to Spain to find newly-made encaustic tiles that could be produced in unlimited quantities. We also sourced mosaics.”

The result is a unique business selling encaustic tiles, both reclaimed and newly handmade, often in bespoke colourways and with an unrivalled choice of design and colour. Clients (either at the shop or online at www. alhambratiles.co.uk) can use an interactive tile chooser to pick one of 68 patterns, decide on colours and generate a view of how the tiles will look on the floor or wall. They can also opt for a patchwork combining a number of patterns and colours. Since the launch of the website in 2011 business has been brisk, with a number of interior designers and commercial clients now among the customer base.

Alhambra prides itself on its personal and flexible service. “There’s no minimum order,” says Rebecca, “and we take as much pride in a small local order as a big international one. We have negotiated some very good transport rates, so we can keep our prices down.

“Patchwork designs are very popular. We have tiles in stock in Spain that can be used to make a patchwork, or we can offer bespoke designs and colourways. We’ve worked with interior architects such as Ramses Frederickx on bespoke patchworks for some very exclusive projects.

We’ve also worked with individuals 74 APRIL 2013

“Personally, I love the reclaimed tiles, and we have a wide selection here in London,” says Rebecca. “Reclaimed tiles are a great sustainable choice with a magical rustic quality. We sell ours in any quantity - singly sometimes. They make great trivets, doorsteps, stair-risers, table-tops and hearths.

“Reclaimed tiles are good for big projects too. I think my favourite project ever was a designer bathroom, made entirely from random reclaimed tiles from our garden! The client was a set designer with a great sense of style. He combined the reclaimed tiles with modern metro tiles and fabulous bathroom fittings. It looked incredible. Then there was an architect project in Hampstead that used a wonderful reclaimed zig-zag pattern in browns and greys. Recently we’ve sold some gorgeous reclaimed blue and grey tiles which join together to make a flower pattern.

“People often think of tiles as cold, but in fact they are wonderfully warm.

They work extremely well with underfloor heating because cement is a great heat conductor. They also stay nice and cool in the summer.”

Alhambra is currently expanding its selection of Spanish tiles.

“We want to keep it niche, but have found some wonderful patterned monochrome porcelain tiles for floors and walls that come in a random selection,” says Rebecca. “Black and white is a big trend at the moment, and these tiles are just fabulous.

“We also supply wonderful mosaic ‘alizares’, like those found in the Alhambra Palace in Spain, and are agents for a Granada company producing handpainted tiles in a range of traditional designs. We supply fabulous art tiles by ceramicist Matthew Weir, too, and he is available to undertake bespoke commissions.”

For more information, please visit Alhambra Tiles online at h www.alhambratiles.co.uk or call on 0203-417 6385. As well as the interactive chooser you can see photographs of projects, read case studies and view reclaimed tiles in stock.

Made-to-measure

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EV E N T

Craft In Focus returns to RHS Garden Wisley Craft In Focus is delighted to be returning to RHS Garden Wisley this Spring and to be staging a contemporary craft and design fair within the Garden.

Craft In Focus has always been at the forefront of promoting the best a wealth of individual and talented designer makers and artists of the UK’s designer makers and their events have been placed above who produce wonderful original items that simply cannot be found all other shows of their kind by The Independent. The event amongst the mass-produced and imported goods on the high street. at Wisley showcases some of the finest contemporary This event is therefore a must visit for those wishing to start to craftmakers in various disciplines all of whom have 2ND–6TH explore what the UK’s professional designer makers have to offer. been selected to exhibit at this event. Visitors will be able to see fine art, furniture, interior accessories, New to the event this year is Festival of Silver taking place within textiles, fashion, jewellery, ceramics, glassware, the Glasshouse. This exhibition of work is a collection of some sculpture and garden furniture. of the finest contemporary British silversmithing work created by established silversmiths and many young up and coming UK Craft In Focus events offer the public a calibre of exhibitor silversmiths. not always seen at other craft fairs and, once again at Wisley, visitors will be able to view and purchase contemporary craft and art from amongst 170 exhibitors whilst also Opening times are 9 am – 6 pm. For further information contact enjoying the beautiful spring garden with its huge plant Craft In Focus 01622 747 325 or visit the website: collection. www.craftinfocus.com.

MAY

2013

All exhibitors have designed and made the work that they display and have been selected for their individuality and innovation in contemporary design, as well as outstanding technical ability. The UK has 76 APRIL 2013

Venue address: RHS Garden Wisley, Nr Woking, GU23 6QB. For more information on RHS Garden Wisley, including admission prices see www.rhs.org.uk/wisley.

CIF_Wisley_140x105_CIF_Wisley_140x105 26/03/2013 09:42 Page 1

C O N T E M P O R A R Y

Craft & Design Fair

Purchase direct from the very best artists & craftmakers in the UK

RHS GARDEN

Wisley Woking, on A3 near M25 J10

2-6 May

9am – 6pm Daily • GU23 6QB • Free Parking • Held in floored marquees Free Entry for RHS Members • Admission to garden also gives admission to fair For more information on RHS Garden Wisley, including admission prices: www.rhs.org.uk/wisley

www.craftinfocus.com

T: 01622 747325

“Get an Instant Cash Loan Against Your Assets Today” Watches • Jewellery • Cars/Logbooks • Art • Antiques • Fine Wine Collectables • Property and Land

we also buy scrap gold CALL 01932 859 880 or bring your items to

Prestige Pawnbrokers 125 Queens Road, Weybridge, Surrey KT13 9UN www.prestigepawnbrokers.co.uk

H OUS E & GA R D E N Origin’s classic Barn design

Based near you, and currently building in your area this Summer…

Britain’s oldest established indoor pool company

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or more than thirty years Origin has been designing and building indoor pool houses, making it the longest established UK company in its field.

Over these years the products have become ever more complex, sophisticated and stylish.

Origin’s clientele has become more sophisticated too. Today’s potential owner takes full advantage of the totally open book that the company has to offer, and is encouraged to dictate special finishes and textures, unusual layouts and sizes, interesting add-ons such as games rooms, saunas and fitness suites.

The pool industry, and pool technology, has changed considerably in thirty years - but the team at Origin hasn’t. Many of the directors, architects, designers and building teams have remained unchanged – so the continuity is strong, and that makes for constantly improving ways of thinking, and for exciting results.

Today’s Origin is at the forefront of its specialist area, and delivers ultimate pieces of luxury, designed to grace a property and its gardens – and bring healthy fun, and pure relaxation to its owners.

The first step is for one of the company’s directors to meet you for

78 MARCH 2013

an on-site visit, and talk over the project you have in mind. The wealth of experience gained over the years comes to bear, and you soon get to realise that the design is only as big as your imagination.

The designers relish a challenge, a chance to extend their creativity even further. And then the company builds exclusively to the clients wishes, all added to and perfected by the Origin’s knowledge and imagination.

After the first concept sketches computer visuals are made, plans drawn up, and fine details discussed.

Planning permission has never been easier to arrange. Many of Origin’s clients have homes in areas of outstanding natural beauty, or in conservation areas, and have previously found it difficult or impossible to get planning permission for the size and style of pool house they wanted for their homes and families. All this has now changed. Many of the difficulties have simply been removed, so many of these clients could reconsider their plans, and have a far better chance of getting an unqualified go-ahead.

Origin’s builders, many of whom have been with the company for many years, then complete the process – with as much care and attention as the rest of the team.

H OUS E & GA R D E N And there is the result – making your home and garden more beautiful, ready to entertain family and friends, every single day of the year!

Origin’s Olympic range…

Inspired by London’s golden moment in 2012, Origin’s designers created the unique state-of-the-art Olympic range.

With an accent on healthy living, they added fitness must-haves such as a gym, swim jets and an exciting alfresco feel. Through the use of cutting edge technology and the finest new materials the Olympic packages are available at record breaking prices - and many of the most interesting advances available to today’s swimming pool buyer are included - temperature controlled pool and surroundings, an exterior finish engineered timber construction, and a wide choice of exterior and interior finishes and colours. So a new Olympic pool would harmonise perfectly with the colour, surroundings and fabric of your home.

A custom-made pool house extension

The range starts with the entry level Arena, a compact well appointed design. The mid-level package is the Marathon, an 11.5 x 5.5m building, housing a 9.2 x 3.3m pool, perfectly equipped for the most demanding fitness session or plenty of room to relax! The more spacious and flexible Challenger and Olympiad feature a gym and sauna for those who want to unwind big time after a healthy workout.

AND FOR A LIMITED PERIOD WE WILL PAY HALF THE VAT ON YOUR OLYMPIC PACKAGE… The Chancellor won’t do that but we will! As a price example, choose the Marathon at £189,000 standard price and receive a 10% VAT discount of £15,750. You will only pay £173,250. A great incentive to keep the Olympic spirit going!

Custom-made exclusively for you…

Origin’s project delivery service proves how the company has developed this custom-made side of the business, and how the design team has matured into their role, as design and build gradually became a natural progression of the company’s skills.

Origin starts from scratch and designs to blend in with your home exactly. A perfectly matching extension perhaps, or a garden building that echoes the colours, materials and textures of its surroundings.

The results not only look stunning, but add considerably to the value of your property and your life.

Origin’s Outdoor Pools…

Origin is famous for creating pool houses, but the company is all too

aware that many people prefer to swim in the sun (or under the stars) and an outdoor pool can be one of the most aspirational features a home can have. Origin’s Outdoor Pool brochure tells the whole story.

Origin - new on YouTube…

You can see the animated film Concept to Completion on Origin’s new YouTube channel. There is also a speedy film that gives a good overview of the breadth of the company’s output, and a demonstration of how effective swimming against a swim jet can be.

More to follow, but for now go to this link to see our first YouTube offerings: http://www.youtube.com/user/originleisure All the information…

For full details of all Origin’s pool houses the very best way to start things off is to get in touch with us. Phone 01895 823366 or email info@originleisure.com. We will send you brochures, fill you in with all the details, and arrange for you to meet one of our directors on site to get the whole process going. Or visit www.originleisure.com to see our constantly changing and updating website.

It’s a great introduction to an exciting new way of life…

Origin leisure

the original indoor outdoor pool company

&

The Olympic Pool House

Origin Leisure Limited Summerhouse Business Park, Harefield Middlesex UB9 6TH Telephone 01895 823366 Email info@originleisure.com www.originleisure.com MARCH 2013 79

F EOTO M AT URRI E NG

First Drive:

AUDI R8 V10 SPYDER

The latest set of wheels are taken for a spin.

This week: Audi R8 V10 Spyder. By Matt Joy

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he R8 has been the figurehead of the Audi range since it first rolled into town in 2006 and it’s been working wonders for the brand ever since. In that time it’s had its roof cut off, a bigger engine stuffed in it and in GT form pumped up and pared back even further. Not many cars could go so long effectively unmolested but for 2013 the surgeon’s scalpel has come out - in a very modest way and a few tweaks have been made to four-ringed supercar.

immense presence, still turns heads and has no trouble of raising the pulse of the lucky person holding the keys.

Spot one in your rear view mirror and it will be the piercing all-LED headlights that catch your attention first, now standard on all R8 models. The front grille has been subtly tweaked and now wears chromed horizontal details on V10 versions, the side blades are also a little bigger on ten-cylinder models and there is a new front bumper to boot. Massive changes they are not, and with good reason; this is still a fantastic looking car, both in coupé and Spyder forms. It has

But the biggest change is in the engine room (well, next to it), as alongside the standard six-speed manual Audi has introduced an S tronic seven-speed gearbox to replace the previous R tronic version.

What does that mean? Well the old R tronic box was essentially an old-school automatic, whereas S tronic means that same as elsewhere in the Audi range - dual-clutch wizardry, rapid and seamless full-bore up shifts and much less grief in traffic.

80 APRIL 2013

There’s a new model in the range too, the V10 plus Coupé which has a tweaked version of the 5.2-litre V10 engine producing 550PS, and gets some extra bits thrown in; unique alloy wheels, exterior detailing plus LED lighting and carbon trim in the engine bay.

MF OTO E ATRUI NG RE

The reality is just the same.

Piloting this V10 Spyder out through the centre of London is exactly the kind of challenge that everyday supercars have to take in their stride, and despite it being the middle of the lunchtime rush hour the R8 copes perfectly well.

Leave the transmission in automatic mode (you still get a chunky alloy level to select the gearbox’s actions) and you can pedal the R8 along without expending much more effort than you would in a regular car. Not that this spoils the sense of occasion however, because sitting snugly in the R8’s cockpit you are down low compared to other cars, and grasping the small but chunky flat-bottomed steering wheel reminds you of what it is capable of.

Leave it in automatic and stick to the first few centimetres of throttle travel and you could almost forget you’re in a supercar, especially if you leave the button marked ‘Sport’ alone. But that would be a waste, and it takes only a moment to access the more dynamic side of the R8’s personality. Punch that button and the revs flare instantly as the throttle response is sharpened and the gearbox switches into a more aggressive programme. The thing you’ll notice first however is the howl from the exhaust as it opens out completely to give the engine its full voice.

Frankly why you’d have the switch in any other position is beyond me; that V10 delivers such a fantastic range of noises it encourages you to change down very early and hold on to gears for longer just to hear it sing. Squeeze on the throttle in any gear and there’s a hardening of the exhaust note as it begins to accelerate hard. Pin the pedal to the floor and the response is dramatic and instant; third gear is the one to go for, because at first you can’t believe how hard it pulls in a relatively tall gear and then as you reach the red line it’s even

more amazing how it keeps on pulling hard way into big speeds. Whatever you ask of it, the V10 Spyder responds emphatically with a mighty push in the back.

Crucially it is friendly and entertaining when you start to push on too. The Quattro drivetrain provides reassurance rather than nannying interference and even if the surface is only fractionally damp you can use the power with much greater freedom. The steering is sharp and responsive but not nervous, although the flat-bottomed wheel takes a little getting used to. No car this fast has a right to be so friendly, but you can lean on the R8 a great deal and forget how much it costs and just revel in the grip, the balance and the knowledge that even if you are a little cack-handed it is on your side.

That the R8 is so responsive and accessible when you press on yet comfortable and unobtrusive when you’re just burbling through town is exactly why you’d buy one. If such all-round brilliance sounds dull, it isn’t; you just get all the thrills but without the headache when you just want to get home. There are younger cars and there are outright faster cars (just), but the one you’ll want to see out of your bedroom window every night is the R8.

Facts at a glance Audi R8 V10 Spyder, £124,225 Engine: 5.2-litre petrol unit producing 518bhp and

390lb.ft of torque Transmission: Seven-speed DSG gearbox driving all four wheels Performance: Top speed 193mph, 0-62mph in 3.8 seconds Economy: 21.2mpg combined Emissions: 310g/km of CO2

APRIL 2013 81

I N D I V I DUA L A N D FA M I LY L AW

THE MYTH OF THE COMMON LAW MARRIAGE

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he fastest-growing type of family in the UK is people who are living together without being married. The number of people who cohabit has doubled to 5.9 million since 1996, the Office for National Statistics (ONS) figures state as at November 2012.

When people talk about living together there is often a lot of talk about ‘common law husband and wife’. This is a myth; there is no such thing as ‘common law husband and wife’. When a living-together relationship ends, ownership of any assets is decided by property law rather than divided up by the courts as with divorcing couples. If there are children then there may also be the possibility of limited claims on behalf of the children while they are minors but it is still a far cry from the potential spousal maintenance, property and pension sharing claims available on the breakdown of a marriage.

The myth of the common law wife runs deep not helped by insurance and other company websites still having an option for marital status as “common law wife/husband” indeed some figures indicate that more than

50 % of adults in this country believe that cohabiting couples have the same rights or at least some rights akin to marriage after a specified period together (although the length of time people think necessary to acquire these fictitious rights also varies wildly). The law when trying to deal with property ownership disputes on the breakdown of a relationship is complex with evidence often hampered by strong emotional feelings. As a result any legal action can be protracted and expensive. The advice therefore in such circumstances, is to enter into a Cohabitation Agreement that regulates the ownership of property during and at the end of a relationship in order to pre-empt any potential issues later down the line.

If you require any further information, please do not hesitate to call Barlow Robbins on 01483 562901.

Personal & Business Law

Barlow Robbins is right here, in your world, helping you find your way through the wide range of issues you encounter in your lives.

Do please call us to talk through your situation and how we may help:

01483 562901 or email: enquiries@barlowrobbins.com

www.barlowrobbins.com

82 APRIL 2013

PROPERTY LIFE T H E

L A T E S T

A N D

B E S T

S P O N S O R E D

P R O P E R T I E S

O N

T H E

M A R K E T

B Y

CLARE HILL ESHER, SURREY

6 double bedroom house situated within the exclusive Clare Hill private estate

Available to rent ÂŁ13,000 pcm APRIL 2013 85

P R O P E RT Y

BROOKE HOUSE OXSHOTT, SURREY

B

rooke House is a fantastic family home of grand proportions.

The property has been beautifully refurbished to a high standard with a range of features including under floor heating and Mark Wilkinson bespoke fixtures and fittings throughout, including the bathrooms, dressing rooms, cinema room and kitchen.

The property provides well-arranged accommodation of approximately 11,811 sq ft split over four floors. On the ground floor all the principle reception rooms have access onto the raised entertaining terrace which is ideal for al fresco dining in the summer months. The impressive reception hall acts as the perfect introduction to the house and boasts tiled flooring with a hand crafted hard wood staircase. The spacious Mark Wilkinson kitchen/ family room is the true heart of the property adjacent to the delightful conservatory.

On the first floor there are six bedroom suites all complete with well appointed bathrooms. Of particular note is the master bedroom suite with two dressing rooms, stylish bathroom and views over the garden. On the second floor there is a games room and panelled snooker room. These rooms could easily be transformed into further bedroom suites should there be the need.

One of the main features of the property is the stunning pool complex on the lower floor which has direct access onto the garden and includes a sauna, hot tub/Jacuzzi, changing facilities and media

86 APRIL 2013

room/gymnasium. Brooke House is situated within the exclusive private Crown Estate, close to the village of Oxshott and mainline station with trains to London Waterloo (approximately 40 minutes).

The A3 and M25 are within easy driving distance, as are Gatwick and Heathrow airports. Esher and Cobham are nearby with a wide range of shops, boutiques, restaurants and recreational facilities. Schooling in the area is second to none.

Brooke House is approached via electric solid wooden gates which open onto a large driveway which in turn leads to the house and the attached triple garage. The rear comprises a sizeable sun terrace that leads down to a large well maintained area of lawn that is surrounded by a wealth of colourful flower beds, mature shrubs and trees all of which provide a good deal of privacy and seclusion.

Guide Price ÂŁ5,200,000

For further information or if you would like to arrange an appointment to view please call Knight Frank Cobham on 01932 591 600, or Knight Frank Country House Department on 020 7861 1378, or visit the website at www.knightfrank.co.uk/cobham PROPERTY REFERENCE CBM120221

KnightFrank

Oxshott Family house in private Oxshott location with indoor pool complex Located in a popular private estate, walking distance to Oxshott village, train station and Danes Hill School. Built by Masterton Homes to the highest standard with the finest quality materials. Comprising six bedroom suites, a custom designed and hand built kitchen, superb facilities including indoor swimming pool, cinema room and gym room. Energy Rating B.

Guide price ÂŁ3,250,000 (CBM120097)

Cobham KnightFrank.co.uk/Cobham cobham@knightfrank.com 01932 591 600

KnightFrank

Walton On Thames

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings esherlettings@knightfrank.com 01372 464009

Well presented family home with outdoor swimming pool located in the sought after Burwood Park estate Ideally located within a highly regarded private estate on the outskirts of Walton on Thames featuring a variety of shops, restaurants and local amenities with Weybridge situated nearby. The mainline rail station, with its fast service to London Waterloo, is within walking distance and commutability is enhanced by the proximity of the A3 giving access to central London, the M25, Gatwick and Heathrow airports. There are a range of excellent private and state schools in the area including St George’s in Weybridge, the ACS International School in Cobham, Notre Dame in Cobham, Danes Hill in Oxshott and Claremont Fancourt School in Esher. Leading from the entrance hall are the principal reception rooms including the drawing room, dining room, study, kitchen/breakfast room leading to a family room and conservatory area, utility room and cloakroom. To the first floor is the master bedroom suite, five further bedrooms and four further bathrooms. A particular feature of the property is the secluded rear garden with heated outside swimming pool and Jacuzzi. To the front of the property is a double garage and parking for several cars on the driveway. Available to let unfurnished. EPC Rating D

To Let: ÂŁ12,950 pcm (82177)

KnightFrank

Cobham Four bedroom family home presented to a high standard throughout Beautifully refurbished four bedroom detached family home located in the sought after Burleigh Park estate. The property has been modernised throughout and offers plenty of adaptable space presented to a very high standard. The accommodation comprises a modern kitchen linking both the play room with doors to the garden and formal dining room, lounge with gas fireplace, conservatory, study and downstairs cloakroom. To the first floor is the master bedroom with en suite bathroom, three further bedrooms and a family bathroom. Outside, a detached double garage, ample driveway parking and well maintained gardens to the front and rear.

To Let: ÂŁ4,750 pcm (174162)

KnightFrank.co.uk/lettings cobhamlettings@knightfrank.com 01932 591606

Cobham, Surrey A stunning detached family home.

Three bedroom suites • Two further bedrooms Reception room • Dining room • Kitchen/ breakfast room • Study • Cloakroom • Double garage • Gated entrance • Extensive landscaped gardens • Planning permission granted to extend house • Energy Rating: D

Guide Price: £2,950,000

01932 798 104

nathaniel.bracegirdle@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Cobham, Surrey An attractive family house, within the Fairmile Estate.

Master bedroom suite • Guest bedroom suite Three further bedrooms • Four bathrooms Drawing room • Dining room • Family room Garden room • Kitchen/breakfast room Attractive gardens housing swimming pool Private parking • Energy Rating: E

Guide Price: £2,450,000

01932 798 104

nathaniel.bracegirdle@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

sothebysrealty.co.uk

East Clandon, Surrey Beautifully restored and extended Grade II Listed farmhouse.

Master bedroom suite • Four further bedroom suites • Three reception rooms • Kitchen/ breakfast room • Cinema room • Sixth bedroom suite above garage • Stables/Gym • Stables/ Games room • Garaging for two cars • Grounds of approximately four acres • Approximately 6,135 sq ft / 570 sq m • Energy Rating: D

Guide Price: £3,250,000

01932 798 104

nathaniel.bracegirdle@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Cobham, Surrey Plot with planning permission on the prestigious Oxshott Way Estate.

Plot of approximately 0.36 acres • Opportunity to build own home • Planning permission for house of approximately 6,500 sq ft

Guide Price: £3,250,000

01932 798 104

nathaniel.bracegirdle@sothebysrealty.co.uk

Over 650 Offices in 47 Countries

sothebysrealty.co.uk

Savills Cobham 10 High Street Cobham KT11 3DY

01932 586200 cobham@savills.com

savills.co.uk

AN IMPOSING HOME IN THE DISTINGUISHED FAIRMILE AREA benfleet close, cobham Sitting room ø dining room ø study ø family/TV room ø vaulted reception room ø bespoke kitchen/breakfast room ø utility room ø 6 bedrooms ø 5 bathrooms ø gym ø games/media room ø double garage ø mature rear garden ø EPC rating = B 2.695 million Freehold

Buying or selling this spring? Talk to Savills.

Contact: Trevor Kearney tkearney@savills.com 01932 586200

P R O P E RT Y

BENFLEET CLOSE COBHAM, SURREY

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et in a desirable cul-de-sac, this attractive home was built in 2009 and has spacious and well planned living accommodation finished to a high standard. The property is presented in excellent order and includes under floor heating, an integrated music system and CAT 6 wiring.

Built specifically for the present owners, this immaculate home enters into a spacious reception hall with stunning carved wooden staircase and Italian stone tiled floor which leads through to the elegant reception rooms and kitchen/breakfast room. There is a stylish study which has built in storage and American walnut flooring which continues throughout the other reception rooms. The sitting room has a contemporary fireplace, bi folding doors and a sliding frosted leading into the dining room, also with doors to the garden.

The bespoke German kitchen has a range of built in Miele appliances including a steam oven, microwave, warming drawer and De Dietrich hob. The central island unit has a stylish extractor and built in wine cooler. From the kitchen there are double doors lead to an elegant

vaulted reception room with full height windows and bifold doors leading directly onto the patio. A second staircase leads up to a gym with its own shower/steam room.

The first floor has 4 well proportioned bedrooms including two which share a “Jack & Jill” bathroom and a further two suites with built in wardrobes and their own bathrooms. Stairs then carry on up to the second floor where there is a large games/media room and a further two bedrooms and bathroom.

To the rear is a generous garden with a range of mature plants and shrubs, attractive summer house and children’s play area. Specimen trees create a high level of privacy and seclusion.

Benfleet Close is a popular residential road in the distinguished Fairmile area of Cobham. The area is renowned for its excellent local schooling such as ACS International School and Reeds, which are both close by. Cobham & Stoke D’Abernon train station is approximately 1.8 miles and offers a regular service to London Waterloo.

Guide Price £2,695,000.

For further information please contact Savills Cobham on 01932 586200 or email cobham@savills.com or visit the website at www.savills.com

APRIL 2013 93

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P R O P E RT Y

BLUNDEL LANE COBHAM, SURREY

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well-presented spacious family house comprising generous reception rooms and a spacious kitchen/ breakfast room/family room which provides double patio doors to the rear terrace and garden. To the first floor is the master bedroom with en suite, two guest suites, two further bedrooms and a family bathroom. A second floor provides two more bedrooms. A particular feature of the property is the superb and beautifully maintained 0.25 acre gardens. The property is approached via a gravel driveway providing ample parking, leading to the garage. The landscaped rear gardens are mainly laid to lawn and incorporate a raised garden terrace, herbaceous borders and mature boundaries.

This family home is ideally located to Cobham village, a vibrant and energetic village with an extensive range of local shops, restaurants and leisure amenities including Painshill Park with fabulous walks and beautiful scenery, also just a short distance from the A3 and M25 which gives access to central London as well as the national motorway network, Heathrow and Gatwick airports. The mainline railway station of Cobham & Stoke d’Abernon provides a service to London Waterloo. Schooling in the local area is superb with a range of private and state schools to suit all ages and abilities including the ACS International School, Parkside, Feltonfleet and Notre Dame.

Available to rent, ÂŁ5,500 pcm unfurnished.

For further information please contact Knight Frank Cobham Lettings on 01932 591606 or email cobhamlettings@knightfrank.com alternatively visit our website www.knightfrank.co.uk/cobhamlettings PROPERTY REFERENCE 150598

98 APRIL 2013

P R O P E RT Y

CLARE HILL ESHER, SURREY

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ituated within the exclusive Clare Hill private estate in Esher, the property sits in an elevated position with far reaching views. With 6 double bedrooms and a guest annexe, the property offers extensive family accommodation. Clare Hill is one of the only private gated residential roads in the area, with the cherry blossom trees and lawned verges the road has a feel all of its own, offering gated pedestrian access to the high street and it’s many shops and restaurants as well as a key for Chestnut Avenue which allows direct access to the Portsmouth Road. The property is a Wisteria clad original Blair Imrie house circa 100 years old which has undergone a complete refurbishment programme over the last few years and now offers superb accommodation for a family with the added benefit of a large self-contained annexe with an open plan vaulted room with kitchen and bathroom, ideal for a nanny or guest.

Esher is a highly-regarded and sought-after residential area with some of the most prestigious houses within a 20 mile radius of London. This family home is within easy reach of Esher High Street with its range of shops and restaurants, whilst Kingston upon Thames

is also nearby offering high street names and department stores.

Esher’s mainline station provides a fast and regular service to London Waterloo (approximately 25 minutes). The A3 is within a short driving distance, giving access to London and the M25 which, in turn, leads to the national motorway network and Heathrow and Gatwick airports. There are a number of excellent private and state schools in the area including Milbourne Lodge and Claremont Fan Court School in Esher and the American Community School in Cobham.

Available to rent immediately, £13,000 pcm unfurnished.

For further information please contact Knight Frank Esher Lettings on 01372 464009 or email esherlettings@knightfrank.com alternatively visit our website www.knightfrank.co.uk/esherlettings PROPERTY REFERENCE 169907

APRIL 2013 99

PICTURE CREDIT CANDY & CANDY

P R O P E RT Y

ONE HYDE PARK

LONDON’S MILLIONAIRE PROPERTY BOOM Sales of multi-million pound properties offering home comforts such as private spas and wine cellars rose a “staggering” 71% in the final three months of 2012, according to Land Registry figures.

B

ritain may have taken one step towards a possible triple-dip recession during that period, but the market for properties priced between £2m and £5m in England and Wales boomed.

A total of 448 properties with a £2m-£5m price tag were sold during the fourth quarter of 2012, compared with 262 during the same period in 2011, according to analysis of Land Registry data by residential property specialist London Central Portfolio.

Sales of “super prime” homes in Central London, costing in excess of £10m, proved similarly robust, rising tenfold as wealthy European, Russian, Chinese and Arab buyers continued to view the capital’s property market as a “safe haven” for their money. The most expensive property to change hands during the final three months of last year was a home in Farm Street, Mayfair, which fetched more than £28.1million.

Wealthy buyers also snapped up properties in exclusive developments such as One Hyde Park, the residential project launched in 2011 by the colourful Candy brothers, offering homeowners with deep pockets features such as eel-skin decorated walls, a panic room and homecooked meals from a team of award-winning chefs. One half of the property development duo, Nick Candy, has retained a penthouse at One Hyde Park with his celebrity wife, the singer and actress Holly Valance.

KENSINGTON PALACE GARDENS

100 APRIL2013

ONE HYDE PARK

Average prices in prime areas of Central London, including Westminster, Kensington and Chelsea, rose 14.1% to end 2012 at £1,359,739, according to the LCP research.

However, Naomi Heaton, chief executive of LCP, said average prices reported by the Land Registry may have been inflated by the number of buyers now using their own names to purchase properties, rather than using a taxefficient corporate vehicle. Using a corporate structure to buy a property has become less attractive following a crackdown by George Osborne, the Chancellor, during last year’s Budget. The Chancellor introduced a 15% stamp duty for individuals buying through a corporate vehicle.

Ms Heaton pointed out that properties wrapped in a corporate vehicle and sold as a company do not appear on the Land Registry. Therefore, an increase in the number of people who have chosen to buy in their own names has had an inflationary effect on average prices, according to Land Registry data.

The boom in £2m-£5m properties comes despite an increase in stamp duty, from 5% to 7%, in last year’s Budget. The rise initially sparked a fall in the number of transactions in this price category, with sales in the third quarter dropping by almost 30% year-on-year, before recovering.

BELGRAVIA

P R O P E RT Y

£600M OF APARTMENTS

SOLD IN 5 DAYS

AT BATTERSEA POWER STATION DEVELOPMENT Building has not even started yet, but the hotly anticipated properties in the first phase of the new Battersea Power Station development have nearly all been reserved.

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he Grade II listed power station is at the heart of the 39 acre development. The largest brick building in Europe and an impressive example of Art Deco architecture, the power station will be renovated, as part of the plans. Circus West is the name of the first area of development, with a mix of 800 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, townhouses and penthouses as well as a blend of offices, shops, leisure and hospitality designed by Ian Simpson Architects and de Ryke Marsh Morgan (dRMM). Prices start from £338,000 for a studio, from £423,000 for a one-bedroom, from £613,000 for a two-bedroom and £894,000 for a threebedroom apartment with first occupancy expected to be in 2016.

Situated on the western side of the Power Station, Circus West at Battersea Power Station will be a thriving new community where people come to live, work, socialise and spend their leisure time. As well as over 800 apartments, suites, townhouses and penthouses across 8 buildings, Circus West will have a range of amenities and services including art galleries, a Power Station Design shop, independent coffee shops, a boutique theatre, 35,000sq ft of creative business studios, a 15,000sq ft. gym, an indoor swimming pool and a health spa.

All residents will have access to an elevated residents garden, with many apartments having an enclosed ‘Winter Garden’ that will provide useable outside space all year around, whilst the penthouses will have private rooftop

terraces. Circus West residents will also have access to a 5,000sq ft private Residents Club designed by David Linley – this club will have a bar, private dining space, library, business centre and a cinema. The site will also provide large areas of public open space including a new six acre riverside park that will provide direct access to Battersea Park and Chelsea via a new riverside pathway adjoining the existing River Thames Walk.

Preparation for construction is underway and is expected to begin in the second half of this year. The entire Battersea development will stretch along 400 metres of the River Thames’s south bank, sitting directly opposite Chelsea. The development will coincide with a proposed extension to the London underground that will bring the Northern Line to Battersea.

Rob Tincknell, Chief Executive Officer of Battersea Power Station Development Company, commented: “We are incredibly excited to be welcoming the UK public to the site of one of Britain’s most iconic landmarks.

Over the past few months, we have seen enormous interest in this unique development from potential purchasers, and we are delighted to be presenting them with an opportunity to be a part of what is sure to become a vibrant new town centre in the heart of London.”

Potential purchasers can find further details at www.batterseapowerstation.co.uk or telephone 020 7501 0678.

APRIL2013 101

Cobham, Surrey

ÂŁ10,000 pcm

A well proportioned house, skillfully converted from stables in to a stunning contemporary home, featuring open plan spaces with state of the art dĂŠcor. Conveniently located just off Fairmile Lane close to the American Community School and other renowned schools such as Reeds, Notre Dame and Danes Hill. Cobham and Esher town centres are easily accessible as are the A3 and M25. EPC Rating D.

01932 865959

5 High Street | Cobham | Surrey | KT11 3DH esher@chkmountford.co.uk | www.chkmountford.co.uk

Oxshott, Surrey

ÂŁ10,000 pcm

An elegant five bedroom executive style house located in the prestigious Crown Estate. The property comprise of a large, light entrance hall, cloakroom, large Sitting Room facing the garden with separate Dining and Family Room, both with doors to the garden and Study. There is a large landscaped garden with heated outdoor swimming pool and a chalet with an indoor jacuzzi, sauna and a triple car garage. EPC Rating D.

01372 464474

70 High Street | Esher | Surrey | KTI0 9QS esher@chkmountford.co.uk | www.chkmountford.co.uk

Walton on Thames, Surrey

ÂŁ12,950 pcm

A fabulous executive family home which has been the subject of an extensive renovation throughout. This property now boasts a stunning kitchen/breakfast and family area flooded with natural light overlooking the extensive rear gardens, with heated swimming pool, large terrace and a custom built summer house which measures 112sq meters or 1,176 sq ft. It is ideal as either gymnasium/games room/entertainment/party space, which includes a sauna, under floor heating, a shower, WC, SKY connection and separate exterior decked area. EPC Rating D.

01932 865959

5 High Street | Cobham | Surrey | KT11 3DH esher@chkmountford.co.uk | www.chkmountford.co.uk

Weybridge, Surrey

ÂŁ8,000 pcm

Interior designed and offering elegant accommodation, this stunning five bedroom property has its accommodation arranged over two floors. The ground floor has been well designed with a formal sitting room and dining room, large separate study and a modern kitchen/breakfast room opening onto a large family room with vaulted ceiling. On the first floor the master bedroom suite has been decorated using peaceful colours and provides ample storage with a stunning en-suite bathroom. This lovely home has a 'New England' feel with wooden flooring throughout the ground floor and Plantation shutters at all of the windows. EPC Rating D

01372 464474

70 High Street | Esher | Surrey | KTI0 9QS esher@chkmountford.co.uk | www.chkmountford.co.uk

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