Northern Woman October 2019 by Helen Wright

Brendan Gallagher takes aim

Editor’s Letter

i all, welcome to our October issue. We have another jam-packed edition for you, full of the very latest fashion, interviews with inspiring local people and celebrities, beauty news, interior décor, health and wellness. I have been hearing more and more about sea swimming The Echlinville Distillery recently and have noticed posts popping up on my newsfeed as the sport grows in popularity. So I welcomed the opportunity to chat to Portush sea swimmers Nicole Morelli and Paula McIntryre from the Menopausal Mermaids to hear what entices these ladies into the nippy waters of the Atlantic Ocean come rain, hail or shine (p. 46-47). I also had the chance to visit CenterParcs, Longford; Ireland’s new family-friendly holiday village, which really does live up to the hype (p. 59). Our gorgeous front cover and fashion spread was set against the eclectic backdrop of The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubban. Thanks to Anne-Marie Clarke and the team for welcoming us on the day, and to this issue’s talented creatives who worked on it. As Halloween approaches journalist Jade Beecroft met practicing white witch Grainne Villa from Derry/Londonderry, to talk all things hocus pocus. Jade also interviewed three Queen’s University students who have swapped life in the Middle East for Northern Ireland, and went on to set up a Jordanian Society at Queen’s. The trio talk about settling in to life in Belfast, women’s rights, and why Jordan should be on your travel bucket list (p. 30-31). John Partridge, best known for playing Christian Clarke in

Lucy Bradley, Hannah Wasson and Carl St. Elliott on set Eastenders, talks to Northern Woman about his role in Cabaret, which comes to the Grand Opera House, Belfast, this month (p. 2629). And local rock singer John Harbinson tells us all about his new album, set for release in October (p. 60-61) We have another amazing subscription offer running this month; get 11 issues of NW delivered to your home for only £15, and the price includes not one but three free gifts worth £35 in total; the ALFAPARF Milano Semi Di Lino Illuminating shampoo (250ml) and conditioner (200ml), and the Cristalli Liquidi serum (15ml). For details on how to sign up see page 44. Until next month,

Catriona Doherty Editor Northern Woman

Contact me at: c.doherty@independentmagazinesni.co.uk. Follow NW on Facebook at: www.facebook.com/NorthernWomanMagazine, Instagram: @northernwomanmagazine, LinkedIn at: www.linkedin.com/company/northern-woman, and Twitter @NorthernWomanNW

CONTENTS OCTOBER 2019

STYLE 08 HOT HOISERY Statement tights 10 LADY IN GREY This season’s coveted colour 12 WINTER WARMERS NW’s outerwear picks 14 MASTERING MINAMILISM 16 WE MEAN BUSINESS Taking a no-nonsense approach to workwear FEATURES 26 LIFE IS STILL A CABARET OLD CHUM John Partridge talks to NW ahead of his GOH performance 30 FROM JORDAN TO BELFAST 32 DOUBLE, DOUBLE, TOIL AND TROUBLE Let’s talk hocus pocus 60 ROCK ON Belfast singer/songwriter John Harbison’s three album deal BEAUTY 36 THE BEAUTY EDIT Makeup bag and skincare must-haves 38 PROFILE: IMAGE SKINCARE 39 IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BASE Making your foundation last HEALTH AND WELLNESS 46 THE MENOPAUSAL MERMAIDS We catch up with a North Antrim sea swimming group 48 THE NINE REALLY WORRYING THINGS ABOUT BEING A WORRIER 50 TIME FOR A CUPPA? Sal Hanvey’s recipe for traditional chai tea 51 YOUNG MINDS Mental health issues in children ESCAPE

Photo credit: Cos For outerwear inspiration see pages 12-13

Cover Image Photography Brendan Gallagher; MUA Lucy Bradley; hair Carl St. Elliott from Zuni Hair; stylist Lesley Macaulay, assisted by Hope Macaulay and Christy Laverty; model Hannah Wasson from ACA; jacket from Rio Brazil, Victoria Square. Shot on location at The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubbin

Publisher Independent News & Media Ltd Belfast Telegraph House 33 Clarendon Road Clarendon Dock Belfast BT1 3GB T: 028 9026 4264

Photo credit: Cecilia de Rafael For more statement tights see page 8

54 HOME SWEET HOME SWAP 56 CALIFORNIA ON TWO WHEELS 59 BUT ISN’T CENTERPARCS REALLY EXPENSIVE? NW visits Ireland’s new family holiday village LIVING 63 FIVE MINUTES WITH ANGEL STRAWBRIDGE 66 A TO Z OF FLOORING From bamboo to rubber, vinyl rugs and mosaic laminate 70 HIGH STREET HIT LIST

IN EVERY ISSUE 58 MOVIE ROUNDUP 74 LOCAL WEDDINGS 82 LET’S DRINK TO… Transylvanian wine for Halloween 93 BLOGGER CORNER Chloe Saffron chooses happiness 94 NELSON KNOWS The wonder years 96 NORTHERN MAN Jeff Meredith’s guide to first-time camping 98 WIN A stay at The Heritage

Production Manager: Irene Fitzsimmons Editor: Catriona Doherty Design: Robert Armstrong Art Editor: Helen Wright Sales Manager: Julie Patterson Editorial Contributors Chloe Saffron, Claire Craig, Clare Bowie, Eunice Nelson, Jade Beecroft, James Oliver, Jeff Meredith, Laura Wheelan, Lucy Norris, Paula Gracey, Sal Hanvey and Róisín Carabine Independent News & Media © 2019. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means; electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of Independent News & Media.

STYLE

Credit: Lipsy

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

Don’t let grey days dull your mood by stepping out in shades of primary reds, yellows, greens and blues. Go hell for leather and match up your tights to the tones of your outfit or cause a stir in clashing colours. 60 denier colour opaque tights from Accessorize £6

50 dernier coloured tights from Cecilia de Rafael £7.99

Heart tights from Boux Avenue £10

Y R E I S O H tights T r u o y O e k H and ta at’ll

Pink socks from Accessorize £4

me love ment styles th o s s g e l ur ate Show yo ext level with st ocks off ur s to the n blow yo

BE BOLD

Swap those 60 deniers for statement tights for the ultimate day-to-night transition.

Pereline tights from ASOS £8

Pretty secrets black heart sheer tights from Simply Be £13

ALL WHITE EVERYTHING

Channel your inner school child and whip out those notorious wooly whites, or make like Madonna in the eighties and pair white tights with strappy heels.

Contemporary Lace Tights from Emilio Cavallini £17.50 Trasparenze Laerte Tights from Cecilia de Rafael was £14.99 now £12.99

Wolford Gwen fashion tights from Cecilia de Rafael was £34.99 now £24.49

ANKLE ATTIRE

Socks and sandals are no longer a Dad faux pas so pulls yours up past your ankle for the world to see.

Fishnet socks from Accessorize £4

Fancy feet floral mesh socks from Nastygal £7.30

PUNK PRINCESS

Pair oh-so-fashionable fishnets with clunky biker boots and watch as you go from 0 to style hero one small hole at a time.

Spot fishnet tights from Boux Avenue £10

Cape sweater with funnel neck £69.95, knit culotte fit trousers £69.95 from Massimo Dutti

Chloe trouser from Mango £35.99

Addison trouser from Hobbs £129

LADY IN GREY As the leaves fall, don sophisticated shades of grey and take on this season’s most coveted colour BY LUCY NORRIS

imple, chic and timelessly classic, this AW grey will be your port of call. Strut down the streets in an effortlessly cool blank canvas of charcoal trousers paired with a top of a lighter shade and watch heads swivel. Throw out that dull perception of grey, reminiscent of school skirts and woolly jumpers, and embrace the colour that has often been shunned as the practical safe bet. Grey makes a statement without saying a word and this is exactly why we’ve fallen head over heels. Mix and match, integrate a shade here and there or go full whammy and wear it head-to-toe. Despite being overshadowed by the bolder, brighter members of the colour wheel, grey is surprisingly versatile and dynamic. Just because designers this season are setting the tone in steel with a block colour scheme doesn’t mean you have to

compromise on creativity. We’ve all read the book – whether we like to admit it or not – and now its time to take a tip from the title and experiment with fifty shades of grey. Work the colour into every day outfits by playing up different fabrics such as wool, silk and leather. Opt for a pleated grey midi skirt paired with an oversized chunky knit. Embrace the boiler suit trend and don an all-in-one grey flannel overall paired with dad trainers and a killer handbag, and you’re pretty much hot to trot for any occasion. Wrap up in woollen, think massive woolly cardigans draped over grey

skinny jeans or cotton slacks. For workwear opt for matching twopieces. Keep it classy in a charcoal pinstripe suit, or let it all hang loose and throw on an oversized blazer/flares trousers combo. When we said head-to-toe we meant it, so you’d fix up your shoe game by nabbing a grey pair of mules or kitten heels. Vary the accessories by adding a bottomless, massive tote in a stone grey colour and slide in a silver clip to tame those pesky baby hairs. Not quite yet convinced? Give it a try and because once you go grey, your wardrobe will never be the same.

Metallic pleated maxi dress from Zara £45.99

Dress from Zara £29.99 Grey floral pleated maxi dress from Roman Originals £80

Grey v-neck maxi dress from Roman Originals £32

Stone coat from Tu Clothing at Sainsburys £50

B.Intl hartle knit from Barbour £69.95

Grey cable jumper from Lipsy £36

Joy kimono (grey windowpane mix) from JOYELLE Design £450

Light grey trench coat from Dorothy Perkins £70

Grey chevron colour block jumper from M&Co £20

Graced metal saddle trim loafer from Dune London £85

Grey pleated scarf from Lipsy £20

Grey fluffy bag from Dorothy Perkins £20

IN THE TRENCHES

An iconic item since Burberry launched their legendary collection in the 1850s, the trusty trench coat will seamlessly take you through the seasons. Coming in all shapes and sizes, for AW19 try on a range of materials, lengths and cuts until you find your perfect match. Fend off the wet weather in a vinyl grey number or keep it casual in an oversized camel classic.

Camel trench coat from Zara £95.99

Kaitlyn lambswool trench coat (pink mix) fromJOYELLE Design £960

Suedette trench coat from Lipsy £75

Copal trench from Nisse £309

PU trench coat from George at ASDA £40

Winter warmers Bid farewell to the summer sunshine and wrap up as the temperature drops in some of this season’s most stylish outer layers

Mint oversized coat from Anthropology £541

BY LUCY NORRIS RADICAL RAINBOW

Make like a box of Crayola crayons and add a pop of colour to those dull days. Paint the streets electric blue, acid yellow and blood red as you strut your stuff in coats so bright you’ll draw sunglasses out of their cases on the rainiest of days. Both flattering and mood-boosting, adding a strong block colour to an all black, grey or beige outfit is guaranteed to add a spring to your step. Whether you’re into long length styles or cropped jackets, this trend will work regardless.

Paisley print puffer from Red Herring at Debenhams £49

Red faux fur coat from Topshop £69

Off-white long coat from Shopyte £626

Farleigh coat from Boden £250

CRAZY FOR CAMEL

Replicate the sands of the Sahara in your wardrobe this year and don coats in camel colours for effortless elegance every day. This shade of beige is both sophisticated and classic, guaranteeing you a ‘put together’ look. Test out shapes until you find your fit, experimenting with floor-length belted numbers, as well as thigh-brushing double-breasted styles and oversized knee-length suede pieces. Vary patterns and hemlines to add a little spice to your usual style.

Oversized coat from H&M £99.99 Camel coat from Mango £119.99

Blazer from Primark £20

Camel coat from Zara £59.99

Vinyl coat from Topshop £59

FEELING PUFFY

Ah yes, our old friend the puffer jacket returns for yet another season and with a chill already circulating in the air, we’re welcoming it with open - rather cold - arms. A timeless classic and simple yet effective capsule piece, puffer jackets are always your port of call when a duvet day is well overdue. Go big and buy oversized this AW19 and dazzle your fellow commuters with that all-important pop of colour. Pink colour block hooded puffer jacket from New Look £39.99 Yellow double layer belted puffer jacket from Simply Be £60

Black puffer from Lipsy £65

Gabor long coat from Nisse £309

TEDDY BEAR’S PICNIC

Lurking in the shadows of the last few seasons, the furrier fabrics had yet to properly take centre stage, however this year they’ve got the spotlight. Dig out that faux fur carpet you’ve always been too shy to sport and wear it loud and proud. Get yourself a teddy coat for the ultimate comfort blanket that always looks uber cool with a black tee and mom jeans. Shearling looks as chic as it sounds so bombers in this material are a must to take your outfit from casual to classy in one soft swoop.

Principles formal long fur coat from Debenhams £95

Faux fur coat from V by Very £65 Brown button teddy trucker coat from Miss Selfridge £59

Clarice coat from Reiss £895

Brown faux fur jacket from Dorothy Perkins £50

Corduroy top handle backpack from Accessorize £32.50

Skinny belt from V by Very £15

Black faux suede and leather fold-over bag from New Look £19.99

Miranda piping edge knotted headband from Oliver Bonas £19.50

MASTERING MINIMALISM Less is more and this season it’s all about making a statement without saying a word. Fly under the radar and keep it simple with minimalistic dressing

BY LUCY NORRIS

e-clutter your life and look as you move into the AW season with a more minimalist approach to fashion. Go shopping with a different mindset and start building your capsule wardrobe with the basic principle of keeping it simple. Hunt for quality, purpose and functionality instead of trend-based quick fixes. When we say less is more, we mean it. Minimalistic dressing not only pairs back your daily outfits, but cuts down on the contents of your wardrobe too. Replace

mismatched random pieces with carefully selected streamlined shapes and savvy colour palettes for a whole new look that’ll scream stylish in the subtlest way possible. Now we appreciate that the thought of binning half your wardrobe could quite possibly make most of us keel over in absolute horror, so here’s three simple steps to help make the transition from hoarder to humble hero in one seamless swoop:

1. Shape your future

To really nail this look, the devil is in the detail with the cuts and lines of each

Zara

garment. Follow a structure for each section of your body to ensure you’re making the most of minimalism. Opt for clean cuts and oversized options that hang effortlessly. Up top, you want to focus your attention on boxy chunky knits and crisp button down shirts, whilst dresses and skirts look best in A-line and shift shapes. Keep trousers and jeans on the straight and narrow by choosing clean streamlined silhouettes. Mix and match to complement your personal body shape.

2. Colour inside the lines

Just because you’ve decided to ditch the chaos doesn’t mean a new dull wardrobe of charcoals and mud pools. Stick with one block bold colour on top of a neutral base or go full whammy with tonal ensembles of complete primary colours in either the same or different shades. Shed some light on those dreary winter days by injecting

Minimalist jumper from Mango £29.99

Grey knit from Zara £15.99

Naomi blouse from Hobbs £99

Cream shirt from Zara £19.99

Gavrila-2 trench from Nisse £189

Evershot knee high boots from Boden £210

Orange dress from H&M 49.99

Black patent faux crock effect flare block heeled boot from New Look £29.99

Viola dress from Reiss £195

Rita row utility boiler brown from Anthropology £180

Tambie from Dune London £199

Fluster from Office £72

Curved leg cullotes £59, double-layer sleeveless dress £59, casual cotton shirt-jacket £79, from COS

a pop of the rainbow into your everyday look.

3. Hit rewind

The very essence of adopting a minimalistic wardrobe is to rid yourself of mindless fashion and really focus on what suits you and your daily routine. Strip everything right back to basics, much like building a capsule collection, to find a core set of pieces that’ll take you through the winter months hassle-free. Seek out unfussy tops to go underneath cosy jumpers, and washed straight leg jeans to team with a lust-worthy pair of boots. Whether you’re ready to embrace the muted tones of the season or want to keep the summer spirit alive no matter the lashing of rain outside, choosing staple pieces will allow you to build your perfect outfit by adding something as simple as a colourful scarf or bright outer layer.

Cord front pocket trouser from Red Herring at Debenhams £35

Minimalist skirt from Mango £35.99

British tweed trousers from Boden £120

Black velvet suit trousers from Dorothy Perkins £32

MEAN

BUSINESS

This season take a no-nonsense approach to workwear with sharp tailoring, streamlined silhouettes and tons of attitude Shot on location at The Echlinville Distillery

Coat £250, top £85, trousers £100 and bag £130 from Tommy Hilfiger, Victoria Square; shoes and sunglasses stylist’s own

Dress £189 from Ted Baker, Victoria Square; shoes model’s own; earrings and bag stylist’s own

Long waistcoat/dress £179 and wide-leg trousers £139 from Ted Baker, Victoria Square; briefcase and shoes stylist’s own

Blazer £199.95 and trousers £129.95 from Rio Brazil, Victoria Square; hairband and sneakers stylist’s own

Coat £899, skirt/culottes £485 and polo neck £229.99 from Rio Brazil, Victoria Square; scarf £60 and bag £130 from Tommy Hilfiger, Victoria Square; shoes model’s own; sunglasses stylist’s own

– PHOTOGRAPHY – Brendan Gallagher 079 0063 8365 brendangallagher.net – STYLIST – Lesley Macaulay 078 6680 9031 www.instagram.com/lesley.macaulay – STYLIST ASSISTANTS – Hope Macaulay www.instagram.com/hope.macaulay – CHRISTY LAVERTY – www.instagram.com/christylaverty – HAIR – Carl St. Elliott @ Zuni Hair 028 9033 2345 www.zunihairdressing.com – MAKEUP – Lucy Bradley 078 8986 5538 www.instagram.com/bradley_lucy – MODEL – Hannah Wasson @ ACA Models 028 9080 9809 acamodels.com – LOCATION – The Echlinville Distillery, Kircubbin 028 4273 8597 echlinville.com

Coat £345, top £125, leather skirt £225 and trousers £130 from Reiss, Victoria Square; boots stylist’s own

Life is STILL a cabaret, old chum 26

Photo by Pamela Raith Photography

From EastEnders to Emcee, John Partridge talks to Northern Woman ahead of his Belfast show on the enduring political and personal relevance of Cabaret, cookbooks and life as a jobbing actor BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

ohn Partridge isn’t afraid to talk turkey about the political relevance of Cabaret. As an “openly proud gay man” the musical’s underlying message – about the dangers of complacency in an era of intolerance and extremism – is also personally relevant. “There’s never a time not to demand to be seen, to be heard and to have equal rights – be that the LGBTQ+ community, religious groups or just general humanity. Just a few months ago, two women on a bus in London were brutally attacked for being gay. “The parallels in Cabaret and what’s happening here in the UK, Europe and US are frightening to say the least: Trump, Farage, Le Pen, the rise of Far Right groups and accusations of antisemitism within our own political system. “Cabaret is a reminder that we are only a vote away from disaster; it’s something that we need to be conscious of all the time,” John says. Adapted from the short novel The Berlin Stories by Christopher Isherwood and turned into a musical in 1966 by Kander and Ebb, Cabaret focuses on the nightlife of Berlin’s seedy Kit Kat Klub in the 1930s as the Nazis are coming to power. It tells the story of American writer Cliff Bradshaw and his relationship with English cabaret performer Sally Bowles. In Bill Kenwright’s multi-award winning adaptation directed by Rufus Norris, John, who’s best known as Jane Beale’s gay brother Christian Clarke in BBC soap EastEnders and winner of Celebrity Masterchef 2018, stars at the gender fluid Emcee. “He’s the master of ceremonies; he’s there to narrate and inform the audience, while also being a showman and entertainer,” John says. “It’s a sapphire of a role but it’s also not for the faint-hearted. Anyone who has ever played it has left their mark. I only hope to do the same.”

That Emcee was previously played by such performers as Barry Dennen, Wayne Sleep, Will Young, James Dreyfus and most notably Joel Grey (who won an Oscar in the 1972 film version) and Alan Cumming (Tony award-winner and Olivier award nominee) isn’t lost on John. “It’s an honour to be starring in this production. I feel grateful and privileged that I’m able to be the caretaker of it, even if

for just a few months,” he says. “For an actor there is no greater reward. Cabaret is an iconic show. It’s got everything: show-stopping choreography (by Olivier Award-winning Javier De Frutos), legendary music and an amazing set. If you were to write a maths equation of what a musical is, Cabaret would be it.”

Continued on 28 ➤

Photo by Pamela Raith Photography The star admits that he actively petitioned for the role. “I’m not a bucket list actor; I don’t look far ahead or behind but this is a role I’ve always wanted to play. Timing and opportunity is everything in this business. “I’ve worked for Bill Kenwright a few times now and when I heard that he was taking Cabaret on the road I said: ‘right Bill we need to have a chat’. It was a case of right place, right time.”

µµCabaret is a reminder that we are only a vote away from disaster∑∑ For an actor with a glittering career on stage as one of West End’s most prolific leading men (he’s appeared in over 20 West End shows including A Chorus Line, Chicago, and La Cage Aux Folles) Partridge remains incredibly modest about his talents and success. He even describes himself as a “jobbing actor” and says he still has to “keep trying”, to “keep improving”. “I left school at 16 to do Cats in the West End. I remember my teacher saying: ‘it’s

Photo by Pamela Raith Photography really easy to get your first and second audition; it’s not so easy when it’s the fifth and seventh’. I’d go further and say it’s even harder when it’s your 35th. I do multiple

auditions every week and it’s hard to continue when you get rejections on a daily basis. “As an actor you’re only as good as your

Photo by Pamela Raith Photography

last gig. At my age (48) I tend to grab opportunities as they come along and worry about it later.” John needn’t worry. His last big stage gig Stripped - an autobiographical account of his own struggles (with drugs and alcohol) and successes, netted him a slew of new fans with reviewers describing his performance as ‘an outstanding theatrical concoction with all the right ingredients’. His television performance in Celebrity Masterchef 2018 had all the right ingredients too when he was crowned the show’s 13th winner. He’s just finished the photography on his first cookbook: There’s

No Taste Like Home, which launches in April next year. “Pre-order is available on Amazon,” he quips. In Cabaret John is without doubt the star of the show although he’s quick to share the limelight with the rest of the cast. “When you work on a major musical like this, it’s all about the collaboration. We’re blessed that this production is full of wonderful actors.” Kara Lily Hayworth (star of Cilla The Musical fame) plays Sally Bowles while friend and fellow Masterchef contestant Anita Harris takes on the role of Fraulein Schneider.

“Anita never ceases to amaze me. She’s a real icon of her era; I really admire her enormously. When I grow up I want to be her; I can only hope that I’m still performing and touring the country when I’m 70,” he adds. So what can Belfast audiences expect? “Well there’s nudity, so bring your binoculars,” laughs John. “No really, it does what it says on the tin. It’s a legendary, multi-award winning, all-singing, alldancing production that’s just truly spectacular. It’s both funny and provocative with highlights such as Money Makes the World Go Round, Willkommen – ‘one of the best opening numbers of any musical’ – and the particularly poignant If Your Could See Her.”

Cabaret shows at the Grand Opera House, Belfast from 8-12 October. Tickets cost from £24.75, for more information visit: goh.co.uk

Afra Daoud, Ayah Zaidalkilani, Grace Meehan and Hadil Suleiman. Photos by Parkway Photography

From Jordan to Belfast Queen’s University has just launched a Jordanian Society. Jade Beecroft meets the three enterprising young women behind the project

hen you’re homesick for a country some 3,500 miles away, what exactly do you do? That’s a question faced regularly by Northern Ireland’s growing population of international students, and one that three smart sassy women from Jordan decided to address themselves. Ayah Zaidalkilani, Hadil Suleiman and Afra Daoud are all studying for PhDs at Queen’s University in Belfast. They’ve already grown to love our wee province, gushing enthusiastically about the friendly, open-minded welcome they’ve received from local people, the city, the university, and even (brace yourselves for this one) our temperate climate. But with home an expensive five-hour flight away, sometimes only a traditional Mansaf will do. That’s a fermented yoghurt, meat and rice dish by the way – a Jordanian culinary speciality. So they recently formed their very own Jordanian Society – the first of its kind in a UK university – to offer support and friendship to other Middle Eastern

Afra Daoud

students, but also to break down cultural barriers and be positive ambassadors for their country. “Most people here know very little about Jordan,” explains Ayah, 31, the group’s resident chatterbox. “They have stereotyped ideas about our society, what it’s like for women, why we wear headscarves… things like that.” In fact, according to the girls, Jordan is a country that ought to be appearing on more people’s travel bucket lists. Despite being sandwiched between some pretty intimidating neighbours like Iraq and Syria, it’s actually one of the more diverse and peaceful countries in the Middle East; a place where tourists are offered a warm welcome. It’s also got a reputation for tolerance; currently supporting two million Syrian refugees in camps. Before coming to Northern Ireland, Ayah worked as a nutrition consultant for UNICEF, going “tent to tent” as part of the infant and young child feeding programme. “I have seen some things,” she admits quietly. “Jordan is a small country with limited resources aside from tourism,

Hadil Suleiman

but we have a diverse mix of religions, traditions and ethnicities. It’s a safe place; visitors get a warm welcome.” The trio are also very keen to point out that Jordan is a country whose government has made female education and empowerment a priority. Afra, 25, spent time growing up in Saudi Arabia, where attitudes are much stricter, and says Jordan is “a country of ambitious and hardworking women”. “I passed my driving test in Jordan,” says Afra. “In Saudi, I only drove for the first time in May because they’ve only recently allowed women to drive. My mum was worried for me the first time I went out behind the wheel in Saudi. It’s a much more conservative country, I have to wear an abaya (a long black covering for women) there too. “Women in Jordan are not restricted – we can do whatever we want to do.” And speaking of her move to Belfast, Hadil, 31, explains: “It was my parents and my family who supported me to be here.” All three of the women are also here on merit due to their academic excellence; with brains to boot. Ayah is studying for a PhD in public health, Hadil a PhD in medicinal chemistry, and Afra a PhD in pharmacy. As the intelligent debate zings around the room, Northern Woman feels slightly ashamed to ask them for a decent hummus recipe, but their top tips are worth it (start with dried chickpeas, then boil them, rather than using canned). They’re outgoing and friendly, keen to talk about their background and well-used to answering questions. Ayah and Hadil both wear headscarves, which they say can be a barrier that stops people approaching them. But they’re eager to reach out and dispel any stereotypes; eloquently explaining that the hijab is their choice.

Ayah Zaidalkilani

“For me, it shows my level of commitment to Islam,” says Hadil, who is studying at Queen’s on a scholarship with Marie Curie. “But it’s a personal choice, it doesn’t mean you’re a good Muslim or a bad Muslim – it’s about my own very personal relationship with my God. “I try to reach out to people, to be friendly and smile, because I’m aware that wearing the hijab can sometimes make me less approachable. I just want people to know that it’s my choice, and all I ask is to be able to wear it without judgement.” Ayah agrees: “The hijab is not something you should be afraid of,” she laughs. “We are

µµJordan is a country of ambitious and hardworking women∑∑

all human beings – this is just our way of honouring our religion. I believe we should respect all different religions and embrace diversity.” The trio say they have all found this respect in Belfast. “I feel very accepted here, smiles Hadil. “I feel almost invisible when I walk down the street and that’s a good thing – nobody is staring at me.” All three of the women say they’ve made great friends in Northern Ireland – with Ayah even being invited to enjoy a traditional Irish family Christmas with one of her new pals. They speak fluent English, having begun learning the language alongside Arabic in kindergarten, although they admit that the speed and delivery of the Northern Irish accents occasionally throws them. They also say they knew very little about Northern Ireland before arriving (“I googled it!” laughs Ayah) but were all pleasantly surprised. “The people are so lovely and friendly here,” says Afra. “They all smile and say hello, or ‘good morning love’. It’s easy to feel at home.” “I’ve had the best three years and four months of my life,” grins Ayah, whose scholarship with Petra University in Jordan means she is committed to going back and lecturing for six years there once she has completed her studies. There are 28 Jordanian students currently studying at Queen’s University, and the women hope that their Jordanian Society will encourage them to feel at home. There are also plans in the pipeline for the students to start volunteering with local community projects, helping them put down roots and further their positive message. “Jordan is a country that embraces diversity,” says Afra. “Even though Belfast has been so welcoming, it’s easy to feel homesick,” explains Hadil. “We just want to bring people together.”

Double, double, toil and trouble

As Halloween approaches we cast our minds to hocus pocus. But for those who follow the wiccan traditions, spells are a year-round activity. Jade Beecroft reports

or Grainne Villa, Halloween is about much more than fancy dress, fireworks and trick-ortreating. The 53-year-old from Derry is a practicing white witch, and October 31st is one Grainne says she has always been of the most important dates on the pagan sensitive to spirit and the natural world. As calendar. a child she spent hours walking with her It’s a time for making her “blessed bread” granddad Willie through fields and woods, – a kind of witches tea loaf – and lighting listening to his fairy tales and folklore. candles, of remembering our ancestors and When he died in 1974, eight-year-old giving thanks to all those who went Grainne heard his voice speaking before us. to her as the family were “Halloween – or Samhain preparing for his funeral. we know it – is sort of like “It was very clear,” she the Pagan New Year,” she remembers. “I was upstairs explains. “Paganism is all in his bedroom, staring at about celebrating nature his wardrobe and empty and the cycles of the year, bed, when I heard him very and Halloween is probably saying ‘Grainne you’d better our biggest festival. go, everyone’s waiting for “On the days leading up to Grainne Villa you.’ I went downstairs and it you’ll find me in the kitchen, said to my mother: ‘Mummy, baking from my kitchen witch Granda’s dressing gown just spoke cookbook. I make a heavy loaf, a bit to me!’ As a schoolgirl that was the only like a tea loaf, and I take time to bless all explanation I had. the ingredients, as well as the Gods and “But Granda taught me to trust my universe, the sun and rain, for providing intuition, and as I grew up it served me them. Last year I made about 15 loaves and well.” gave them out to my friends and family.” Grainne met her husband, Larry, when Halloween is also known as All Souls’ she was 21. The pair settled down and in Eve, a time when some believe the 1996 their daughter Sophie came along. boundary between this world and the world “Larry knew I was sensitive to spirit and of the dead can be more easily crossed. didn’t seem to mind that I attracted visitors “From midnight on Halloween, we from the other side,” laughs Grainne. Larry believe that the dead come home for struggled with his health for many years, November 1st, All Souls’ Day,” explains following a heart attack in 1991. By 2006 Grainne. “I light candles in all my Westernhe was desperately ill with heart failure. It facing windows to welcome them home and was around this time that Grainne started leave an offering for them – usually an item investigating her spiritually more carefully of clothing, a drink, some of my blessed and reading about paganism. bread and some fruit. Even my 11-year-old “I felt drawn to the rituals and the belief daughter Mollie gets involved, although in the power of Mother Earth and the we use a battery-operated candle at her natural world,” she explains. window for safety!”

Thankfully Larry enjoyed a period of better health after a heart transplant, and in September 2007, fate had a surprise for the couple when Grainne fell pregnant with her daughter Mollie. “It seemed incredible, I was 42 and my husband had just been given a new heart,” she smiles. “Mollie was unexpected gift from the universe.” In 2014, when Larry was 58, his health finally failed and he passed away just a week after Mollie’s sixth birthday. In the

wake of her husband’s death, Grainne made a decision. She explains: “I’d spent almost a decade learning about paganism, the cycles of the moon, angels and crystals. It was time to put it all into practice and march to the beat of my own drum. I decided to become a white witch.” And just four months after Larry passed, in August 2014, she got her first chance to cast a spell. “A letter landed on the doormat from our landlord, informing me he was selling the property,” Grainne remembers. “It had been our home for 12 years. “I’d hit rock bottom, newly widowed, with two children, and now I was going to be made homeless. I charged my crystals under the full moon and laid them out, lit a candle and settled down to set my intention. It’s as straightforward as that really – people have this Hollywood image of cauldrons and toads, but casting a spell is a simple ritual as you ask the universe for help. I asked for a new home, a happy place for me and my children, within walking distance of a good primary school for Mollie, on a bus route into town for Sophie, and close to a shop.” A couple of days later an advert popped up on Property Pal for the perfect house, with everything Grainne had asked for. In her new home she created a small alter in the kitchen, with candles, angel

figures, crystals and incense. She also started following the phases of the moon, setting spells to increase or bring good into their lives as it waxed, and spells to get rid of negativity as it waned. A year after Larry died, Grainne again had cause to cast a spell for help. “I was struggling to make ends meet when a huge £860 bill for his headstone arrived,” she explains. “This called for something special, so I ordered a spell kit online from a Wicca website, with the right essential oils and herbs to encourage abundance. Mother Luna and the Universe, please increase my prosperity,’ I chanted. Two days later, I nearly fell off my chair when I checked my bank account. There was an extra £900 sitting there! I was so shocked I actually went into my bank branch to make sure it wasn’t a mistake. The lady behind the counter assured me it was definitely my money, from an anonymous benefactor. I was speechless, almost in tears. It was almost the exact amount of the headstone bill that I needed to pay. Eventually it transpired that the cash had been a gift from a generous member of our extended family.” Since then Grainne has cast spells to help find her current job, working as a cook at a soft play centre, and bring prosperity to the

family’s day to day lives. She also uses them to help other people – although she insists they are always positive. “I never hex anyone – despite the girls at working asking me to curse their cheating boyfriends!” she laughs. “I only use my powers for good.” And there’s another person who’s been taking a keen interest in Grainne’s pagan rituals… her daughter Mollie can’t get enough of them. “She loves my alter and likes to sit with me when I’m lighting candles and setting my intentions,” says Grainne. “She’s a chip off the old block, I think she as the potential to become a white witch herself one day. She suffers from insomnia and nightmares, so I’ve made her a personalised bag of crystals, with rose quartz, blue howlite, moonstone and lepidolite to keep under her pillow. Now she never leaves the house without it, stuffing it into her backpack wherever we go. She also has a worry doll and I’ve taught her to whisper any problems to it before she goes to sleep.” Mollie says she thinks it’s “really cool” that her Mummy can cast spells. “I want to be just like her when I grow up,” she smiles. “I love my crystals and I take them everywhere.” Mollie has already got her Halloween costume, and will be enjoying trick-ortreating with her friends on October 31st. “I have no problem with people enjoying Halloween in whatever way suits their beliefs,” smiles Grainne. “But for me, it’s about remembering the traditions and rituals behind the parties and fireworks.”

BEAUTY Credit: Primark

BELLA BABE

Accessorize

Seamlessly smooth out imperfections, pores, stretch marks and blemishes, and even out skin tone with Bellamianta’s Flawless Filter Body Makeup. Designed to bronze and gloss your skin, giving you a HD finish with a gorgeous iridescent glow for instant body confidence. Flawless Filter Body Makeup from Bellamianta £19.99

YOU GLOW GIRL

Glow-on-the-go with this handbag friendly trio from bareMinerals. Featuring three mini-sizes of some of the brand’s best-selling shades, plus a new limited edition blush this palette is perfect for a pick-me-up.

Bare Glow On-The-Go Palette from bareMinerals £20

STARRY EYED SURPRISE

MAC’s Starring You collection features these Spellbinder eyeshadows. Available in four shades (pictured is Swing on a Star), the pigment-packed creamy formulas leave a hint of glitter and come with serious staying power.

BEACH HAIR

Spellbinder Eye Shadow from MAC £19

The Beauty Edit BY CLAIRE CRAIG

This month’s makeup and skincare must haves PERFECT FINISH

Add colour and protection to lips with Clarins’ Natural Lip Perfectors. The formula is enriched with shea butter and mango, to moisturise while the cushion applicator is designed to hug the lip contours, leaving an even finish with its non-sticky and lightweight texture. New season shades come packaged in a limited edition golden, geometric pattern and include Intense Garnet, a deep berry tone perfect for autumn. Natural Lip Perfector from Clarins £18.50

REVITALISED

If you’re searching for a new skincare regime then consider Yon-Ka’s trial size kits. A great introduction to the brand, the Vitality kit is perfect for skin in need of some TLC and helps to build the skin’s barrier naturally. Designed for dull skin requiring anti-oxidant protection, it protects against environmental Vitality damage while helping Introduction Kit to reveal brighter, from Yon-ka £31 healthier skin.

TONE UP

This ultra-firming and moisturising neck cream targets the specific needs of the delicate skin around the neck and décolleté. Formulated with the unique combination of Alguronic Acid and powerful peptides, this firming and lifting cream visibly tightens and helps redefine facial contours to create a more toned and sculpted appearance Firming and Lifting resulting in a more Neck Cream from youthful look. Algenist £76

ALFAPARF Milano’s Sea Spray boosts the hair’s texture to instantly create defined and tousled locks with a ‘sea/beach effect’ and matte finish. The salt spray is part of ALFAPARF Milano’s Style Stories range, which features 18 professional hair styling products. The Style Stories’ distinctive fragrance is loved by all because of its carefully selected ingredients; lemon, apricot, bamboo, freesia, lily of the valley, jasmine, sandalwood, tonka bean and musky notes. Sea Spray from ALFAPARF Milano £12.95

X-RATED

Command the room in the blink of an eye with Stila’s new Magnum XXX Mascara. Get X-rated volume, curl and panoramic flutter with the notice-me volume brush and dramatic ink black colour. Surprisingly lightweight, this creamy, non-clumping formula contains Curl-Flex for full-bodied, yet flexible lash hold and 1% Diamond Powder for an intense black hue. Magnum XXX Mascara from Stila, £19

FACE FACTS

Irish Makeup artist Michelle Fox has designed this limited edition vegan palette with Fuchsia Makeup. Made up of 12 eyeshadows - eight intensely pigmented matte shades and four shimmer metallic shades ranging from a light beige to a dark chocolate, plus a buildable contour, highlight and blush it is the perfect mix of wearable everyday nudes and night time shimmers to create a multitude of makeup looks on all skin tones and eye colours. Michelle Fox Face and Eye Palette from Fuchsia Makeup £31.50

In the November issue of Ben Fogle’s ‘Tales From the Wilderness Tour’ comes to NI Why bourgeois is the biggest trend of AW19 Longline, shiny and colourful leather looks Insta beauty trends to replicate at home

Credit: Galvan London

Interiors, health & wellness, travel reviews, local weddings, beauty news, events, competitions and lots more 37

Tried & Tested PROFILE:

Image Skincare Northern Woman reviews the Image Experience at Monart Spa BY LAURA WHEELAN

LUST LIST: Monart Spa’s hero buys Prevention + Daily Tinted Moisturiser SPF30+ £48

For best use, apply after serum and before makeup. This lightweight moisturiser gives a gorgeous glow with the benefits of SPF30+ protection. It is quickly absorbed, delivering long-lasting hydration and antioxidant defence. The cream is physician-formulated for use on sensitive, redness-prone, dry and dehydrated skin.

Vital C Hydrating Facial Cleanser £30

This creamy cleanser gently removes impurities, while nourishing skin with vitamins and antioxidants. It’s infused with Vitamin C and brightens as it cleanses. It is specially formulated for users with redness-prone, sensitive, dry, dehydrated, sun-damaged, sunburned, post-peel and postoperative skin.

Ormedic Balancing Facial Cleanser £30

This botanically-based cleaner effectively removes makeup and impurities, helps restore

the skin’s optimum PH balance, delivers essential nurtures to calm and soothe skin, and softens and hydrates. It is suitable for all skin types, and those with unbalance, sensitive, irritated, and post-treatment skin.

Vital C Hydrating Enzyme Masque £44

This face mask gently dissolves the build-up of dead skin cells that can dull the complexion. The product not only reduces tell-tale signs of dryness by binding moisture to the skin, but also infuses skin with nourishing vitamins and antioxidants. Apply the mask to cleansed skin and leave it on for 5-30 minutes. Rinse with tepid water, followed by a cold splash.

IIuma Intense Brightening Serum £60 This quick-absorbing serum addresses skin discolouration and redness. A blend of botanical brightners and vitamin C promotes a clear, even-toned complexion. Apply the serum to cleansed skin morning and evening. The product is physican-formulated for redness-prone, sundamaged, sensitive, irritated, and post-peel skin.

Monart Spa is an adults-only five-star spa located in the lush Irish countryside of Enniscorthy, County Wexford. It has recent introduced eight new facials by luxury clinical skincare brand Image Skincare and I tried out The Monart Image Experience (cost €120). I was blown away by the treatment from start to finish. The spa itself oozes class and has a peaceful ambiance to calm the body before we even began. Kelly, my therapist for the evening, was amazing from start to finish. The treatment room was luxurious and instantly relaxing. Kelly began by explaining in detail the Image skin products and the science behind them. During my consultation I mentioned I was getting married next year and she was so helpful in advising me on how to prepare my skin. Kelly examined my complexion and clearly explained the products she would use and how they would achieve my desired effect. The treatment included a total of ten products from the Image range; iluma brightening cleanser, eye recovery gel, stem cell crème and the resurfacing mask, to name but a few. The exfoliation felt refreshing and invigorating followed by the application of serums, creams and gel. Sixty minutes of pure bliss, I couldn’t believe how fast the time whizzed by. The session ended with a trip to the ‘Dark Quite Room’ and a cup of camomile tea. Needless to say a quick snooze followed such a relaxing session. The end result: visibly brighter, firmer and hydrated skin. My completion was notably brighter, a few people complimented me at work the following day on my glowing skin (this never happens). I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. I have already booked a return visit and I am counting down the days. For more information on Monart Spa visit: www.monart.ie/spa and for more Image Skincare product information see: www.imageskincare.co.uk

Dr. Feelgood Silky Mattifying Powder from Benefit £25

IT’S ALL ABOUT THE BASE MAKE YOUR FOUNDATION LAST STEP 1: PREP

Skincare and makeup work hand-in-hand to create a flawless canvas. Plump and Glow Hydrating Facial Mist is a fabulous all-rounder, it moisturises, plumps Plump and Glow skin and provides Hydrating Facial a soft, luminous Mist £42 glow. This ultra-light facial mist smells divine, feels luxurious and leaves your skin perfectly prepped for makeup application. If £42 is more than you would usually spend on products for yourself, then put it on your birthday or Christmas wish list.

STEP 2: PRIME

After moisturising wait 5-10 minutes before priming to allow time for product absorption. Primers are almost always applied after your last skincare step and before your makeup. Give it a minute to dry completely before layering makeup on top. They are used to create the impression of an even skin tone, blur blemishes and help keep your makeup in place, and are available in cream, gel, powder and spray formats for the eyelids only, whole face and for use under tan.

Mineral Infused Face Primer from e.l.f £7.50

Veil Translucent Setting Powder from Hourglass at Cult Beauty £42

Prime + Prep Transparent Finishing Powder from MAC £23.50 3 in 1 Hydraulic Skin Mist Ella & Jo £23

STEP 3: APPLY FOUNDATION

If you have discolouration (spots, scarring or under-eye circles), apply concealer that is 1-2 shades lighter than your foundation. Select the right long-wear foundation for your skin tone, add two pumps to your brush or blender, and dab onto your skin. Three brand new foundations getting a lot of positive press at the moment, are Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless, Image Skincare’s I Conceal, and Clarins’ Everlasting Youth Fluid Foundation. Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless is said to visibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles, and is ‘sweat, water and humidity-proof and transfer resistant’. The full-coverage mineral foundation I CONCEAL hides the appearance of redness after cosmetic procedures, offers SPF 30, and minimises the look of pores and imperfections. For best results, use it in conjunction with the I Primer Flawless Blur Gel. Available in 24 different shades, Clarins’ Youth Fluid Foundation is designed to restore the complexions’ youthful radiance, it’s composed of plumping konjac micropearls, nourishing argan oil and skintightening organic oat sugars, to leave skin firmer, fuller and radiant.

I CONCEAL Flawless Foundation Broad-Spectrum SPF 30 from Image Skincare £45

I PRIME flawless blur gel from Image Beauty £40

STEP 4: SET

If you want your foundation to last, you have to set it. With a big fluffy brush and a matte translucent setting powder, gently swirl the product over the areas that tend to get shiny. At this point your face might look flat and dimensionless, which is the aim of foundation – to even everything out. Now that the base is set, move on to bronzing, contouring and highlighting. And finally, spritz a mist of long-lasting setting spray to ensure a bulletproof finish.

Stay Hydrated Pressed Powder Freedom System Palette from INGLOT £21

THE CHARITY HERO Kudos to Inglot for donating a portion of the sales of this product to Project AWARE; an organisation that connects the passion for ocean adventure with the purpose of marine conservation.

Airbrush Flawless Foundation from Charlotte Tilbury £34

Everlasting Youth Fluid Foundation SPF15 from Clarins £35

Restore and renew

WITH A VIEW

Lough Eske is the quintessential hideout for those seeking relaxation and a touch of indulgence. Here the stunning Donegal property wraps up its afternoon tea and spa packages…

 ADVERTORIAL

ARA Organic Beauty Spa at Lough Eske Castle in County Donegal has wellness and wellbeing at the heart of its offering. An idyllic castle spa nestled in 43 acres of woodland, located just outside Donegal Town, this stunning facility is perfect for taking time out to rest and restore both body and mind. The pool and Spa building sits in the footprint of the original Victorian Glass House which is home to seven treatment rooms, including two couples’ treatment rooms with jet bath and steam room; a fully equipped thermal suite consisting of an ice fountain, sauna, steam room, sanarium, tropical experience showers, heated bench and an infinity pool ensuring your wellness and indulgent relaxation needs are catered for.

Home to two award-winning Spa partners, Anne Semonin and ESPA – both offering a luxurious holistic approach to treatments and skin concerns – guests can indulge in style. For those who want to combine nourishment with indulgence Lough Eske’s traditional afternoon tea in one of its castle drawing rooms, mixed with pampering in the CARA Organic Beauty Spa, is the perfect package. A 25-minute back, neck and shoulder massage and/or a luxury express facial (25 minutes) or one mini treatment with Traditional Afternoon Tea costs €69* per person Monday-Thursday and €79* per person Friday-Sunday. For those interested in two treatments the double mini treatment and traditional afternoon tea costs from €99 per person to €129*.

To learn more or to book contact the Spa team on +353(0)749743113 or email spa@ lougheskecastlehotel.com

*Subject to availability

Lough Erne Resort Lough Erne Resort, is a luxurious 5-Star hotel in Enniskillen, the gateway to North West Ireland and Northern Woman went along to check it out

 ADVERTORIAL

ocated on the shores of Lough Erne the hotel boasts jaw-dropping views of the Fermanagh Lakelands. My room overlooked the lake, golf course, and forestry that rolls into the surrounding countryside. As I stood on the balcony taking in the peaceful peninsula setting, I felt so far removed from the busy pace of Belfast life. Visitors can soak up the scenery from another angle onboard the Erne Water Taxi. Hop aboard a chauffeur-driven boat from the jetty at the resort and go for an exhilarating spin around the lough. There’s a range of tours available, including a 90-minute Lough Erne Hop, three-hour Food Trail, and fullday Lough Erne Expedition. Guests have a range of accommodation options to choose from to suit all tastes and budgets, including suites, lakeview rooms, two and three-bedroom lodges. At The Thai Spa a team of therapists are on hand to ease away any stresses, with an array of authentic Thai, Espa and Elemis

spa treatments to choose from. Hotel guests can enjoy complimentary use of the thermal suite, infinity pool, sauna, steam room and Jacuzzi. The food at Lough Erne Resort exceeded all expectations. I dined in the Catalina Restaurant and it was of the same standard (if not even better), as Michelin-starred restaurants I have been to. The setting felt so luxurious with its glass chandeliers,

Firstly I was shown how to hold the golf club correctly, and advised on my stance and swing. After hitting the ground a few times, I proudly began hitting the golf ball. V1 camera capture and Flightscope technology analysed my shots; extremely useful technology for those who want to improve their game. A lesson at The Golf Academy costs from £30. It is a fun way to spend an afternoon and you won’t fail to brush up your skills under the watchful eye of Shaun. n vaulted ceilings and ornate tableware. The waiting staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and I loved that they shared stories about where the food originated from and how it was made. Every course was amazing in presentation and taste.

As I dipped my spoon into a homemade rhubarb soufflé, I felt as if it belonged in an episode of Masterchef!! A two-course dining experience costs £48 per person, and the three-course is £56 per person. Lough Erne Resort often have dine and stay offers, so look out for deals. The resort features a driving range, The Golf Academy, and two championship golf courses; Castle Hume and The Faldo Course. During my visit I had a lesson with golf pro Shaun Donnelly. Shaun caters his lessons to suit all ability levels from total beginners like me, to professional golfers. All equipment required is provided.

Newly engaged? Lough Erne Resort is an idyllic wedding venue. The luxe Ross Suite and Lakeview terrace are fairy-tale settings to toast your big day - with stunning backdrops for wedding photography. For more information contact the Wedding Co-ordinators on t: 028 6632 3230 or email: events@lougherneresort.com w: info@lougherneresort.com

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Northern Woman and ALFAPARF Milano, Ireland’s number one professional haircare brand, have teamed up to offer new subscribers a free gift of ALFAPARF Milano Semi Di Lino Illuminating Shampoo (250ml) and Conditioner (200ml) from the Diamond range for normal hair, and Cristalli Liquidi (Liquid Crystals) (15ml) from the Sublime range. The Illuminating Low Shampoo is sulphate-free and cleanses, illuminates and revitalises, and the Illuminating Conditioner detangles without weighing down the hair. The Cristalli Liquidi illuminates, protects from humidity and creates an extraordinary shine. Semi Di Lino ranges are available in appointed ALFAPARF Milano salons throughout Northern Ireland. For stockists’ details call: +353 45 856 490, or visit: www.alfaparfmilano. com or www.facebook.com/ AlfaparfMilanoIreland

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

Nicole Morelli, Mary Glover, Paula McIntryre, Lucia and Giannina Morelli. Photo by Michael Bradley

THE FOUNDERS

What started off as a new interest for Nicole Morelli and her friend Maggie Purdy last November evolved into a group of more than 60 ladies who enjoy going for a dip in the Atlantic Ocean. The sea swimmers, otherwise known as the Menopausal Mermaids, now bathe together regularly in the nippy waters of East Strand Portrush and Portstewart Strand. “I had just had a hip replacement, Maggie had worries about blood pressure, and we both wanted to do something to make ourselves feel better,” Nicole recalls. “Our first swim lasted about three minutes, but the laugh we had and the buzz we felt after we came out of the water made us come back a few days later. “By early December I’d managed to persuade some friends to join us. We were having such a laugh chatting about what was happening in our lives and the name Menopausal Mermaids just evolved. “I started a Facebook group and women loved the name. It has become a very empowering name because menopause is not discussed too often. I’m proud that our

The Menopausal

MERMAIDS What entices more than 60 ladies to swim in the chilly waters of Portush come rain, hail or shine? Catriona Doherty finds out

group title has given women and families the opportunity to talk about it and remove the stigma around the use of the word.” Nicole says the physical and emotional benefits of sea swimming are diverse and felt by all involved. “What I’ve noticed about our group is that everyone has experienced some kind of transformation be it physical, emotional or lifestyle. One thing we all have experienced is a new-found confidence in

our life and our bodies, not to mention the wonderful friendships we have formed. “The benefits are immense and we’re all still discovering them. Personally I have osteoarthritis and because I swim every

Paula McIntryre, Nicole Morelli and Mary Glover. Photo by Michael Bradley

day I’m off the painkillers I was prescribed a year ago. We have women in our group with angina, fibromyalgia, high and low blood pressure, and depression. Unequivocally everyone in our group has said that sea swimming has changed their lives for the better.” And for readers who are reluctant to try sea swimming due to concerns about the water being too cold, Nicole offers this advice: “The sea temperature varies by four and five degrees throughout the year but it’s the air temperature that you have allow for. Preparation is key and it’s the cold that gets the blood pumping around your body, releasing endorphins and giving you an unsurpassable feel-good factor.” She encourages newbies to “just do it and

THE CONVERT

Despite thinking she “was going to die from the cold” on her very first swim, it was the aftereffects that enticed Paula McIntyre to return time and time again. “When I came out I felt exhilarated and couldn’t wait to do it again,” Paula begins. “I started swimming in the sea last December. My blood pressure had been a bit high and my lifelong friend Nicole suggested swimming to help. “I had psoriasis and it has cleared up significantly. I have a bit of arthritis in my ankle and if I swim it really helps ease it. If you swim for 40 minutes you clock up about 4,000 steps on the Fitbit, so it’s a great kickstart to the day.” Paula has discovered other benefits of bathing with the Menopausal Mermaids that extend well beyond the physical. “When you’re in the water you’re at the mercy of the sea, so safety in numbers is vital. “When we run into the ocean we tend to

have the confidence you can. Embrace it and it won’t let you down. “There will be a swim group for you somewhere and they’ll support you from the offset. Practically, a hooded towel is great. Some women wear gloves and board shoes. Make sure you have a hot drink flask and warm water to remove sand and heat up your toes. Bring a big waterproof bag for your clothes – we’ve had a few incidents of peeing dogs! “Everyone is welcome to join Menopausal

Mermaids and you can contact us on Facebook. We can be found most mornings on East Strand beach, Portrush, around 9am.” And is the group open to men? “We have some husbands that come and swim with us but I tend to find they swim away from us and do their own thing,” Nicole says. “They, like us, instantly feel the benefits of the power of cold water swimming. Men are most welcome any time.”

shout a bit and there’s something childlike and innocent about it. It evokes memories of being carefree without worries. “Body image is irrelevant in the sea. I was a bit reticent the first couple of times but now I couldn’t give a hoot. Being in the water makes you and your problems seem a bit significant. It brings clarity to your thoughts. I’ve made a couple of lifechanging decisions this year that I’d been dithering about for ages. The sea gives you a confidence. I love the craic with the other swimmers and it’s been a real joy to meet such a diverse group of women and their partners. “Sea swimming really calms you down. You’re up against the elements and it puts things in perspective. Also when you swim with a group you have a support network; what’s said in the sea, stays in the sea…” A lot of Paula’s work (as a chef and broadcaster) is freelance so she is often away from home and the waters of the

North Coast, but when she does take a dip she finds it hard to get back out. “A mutual friend, who’s a chemist, gives off to us for staying in too long. Apparently you should stay in one minute for every degree of temperature the sea is. So in the winter we should only be in for about 10 minutes. Nicole and I stayed in for 45 minutes in January and let’s just say it took us quite a long time to warm up. Now that the temperature is a lot warmer we tend to stay in for about 45 minutes. You never notice the time going by. Getting warmed up afterwards is key – I have a towelling top, dry robe and I always bring warm water to revive my hands and feet. A hot drink afterwards heats your core. “I swim all year round but prefer the winter. I’m really looking forward to swimming on a frosty morning.” Paula’s experience sea swimming is overwhelmingly positive, and she just has one regret: “not starting it years ago!”

The nine really worrying things about

BEING A WORRIER BY CLARE BOWIE

1. Jumping to conclusions

You arrange to meet a friend for coffee. They don’t appear after 15 minutes, or reply to any of your texts, so you automatically assume that they must be dead; something unspeakably horrific probably happened en-route. Your mind knows no grey areas. When they do arrive (not dead) they fail to mention your new top so you instantly know that they hate it and you feel ridiculous for even thinking that you could pull this look off. You definitely need a lie down after the stress of the morning and vow never to be lured into an impromptu coffee situation again.

2. Over thinking

You have a non-stop, tormentive internal dialogue of over-thinking and going through what-ifs and maybes in your head about ridiculously unimportant things. You could spend a good half an hour worrying

about which day you should wash your hair, and you would use dry shampoo but you worry about the powdery look and someone might think it’s just plain grey. What if it goes too bouffy and, wait, did I leave the hair straighteners on?

to do sharing plates but I don’t like chicken on the bone and I’m not a huge fan of pork, but I don’t want to make a fuss. I drink white wine but what if they only drink red or don’t drink at all? *brain starts to melt

3. Dining decisions

You’ve been added to a new WhatsApp group and the pressure is intense; so many people reading your input, such a huge margin for error and misinterpretation, and capital letters can be so misleading. A social invitation is issued and you desperately want to answer in an appropriate timescale; the key is to look involved, friendly and like

“Yes, no probs, let’s go to that restaurant”, you say, oh so casually. You then immediately rush home, google it and print out the menu to just run through, mull over and decide in your own sweet time. Which meal will I choose? What if I want a starter but no-one else does? What if people want

4. Group messages

‘haggard and old tired,’ rather than just, ‘five straight weeks of night feeds tired’. You’ll most likely have to move house now or fake your own death. On top of that, you saw two managers at work look in the direction of your desk last week so now you’re convinced that you are about to get fired at any given moment.

together. The most important thing is to be extra early and never travel with anyone who says things like, ‘don’t worry, we have loads of time,’ or, ‘relax, we’ll just have one more drink’. The worst one is, ‘there will be another bus/flight/ferry if we miss it,’ and you have to resist a strong urge to pass out, punch them or get sick.

6. Irrational worries

8. Wedding outfits

People know that you’re prone to worrying about things and that definitely makes you um, worry. You don’t mean to take the fun out of situations but really, isn’t it better to be aware of all the dangers involved before embarking on this potentially dangerous new glider system. I mean, is it a bus? Is it a tram? It’s all so uncertain. You’re still not convinced that contactless payment is entirely above board and if technology is so advanced why is turning on the TV so complicated? Is it just me?

µµMan, those relaxed people are sooo annoying. *worries that might have sounded too harsh and judgemental*∑∑ 7. Travelling

You’ve obviously prepared 19 actual lists and have an additional 45 mental checklists in place, to prepare for the occasion. Most of these have been mulled over at 4.30am when all good worries and concerns get

What will I wear? What if someone else has the same dress? What if I buy a dress now and then it goes on sale before I’ve worn it or what if it doesn’t fit me at the time of the wedding, or I discover that I can’t eat while wearing it or sit down or go to the toilet unaided. What if I get too cold or too sweaty or my feet get too sore? What if people think I’m trying to upstage the bride because it’s got a white background? I’ll probably just not go, but what excuse will I give and what if someone finds out and... blah, blah, blah.

9. Positive sayings

‘Don’t worry, be happy’ is like the craziest thing you have ever heard. How would one even achieve this? It’s like people who say ‘manana’ and actually live in that chaotic, late for everything, crossing bridges when they come to them kind of existence. It blows your tiny troubled mind. ‘Happiness’ implies a state of calm and probably a good night’s sleep. I mean, is that even a thing? Actually going to bed, falling asleep immediately, sleeping and then waking up without having compiled a comprehensive list of 57 items to worry about? It sounds plain wrong and very scary if you’re honest. Truth is, your grass may be slightly damaged but it feels so much safer and greener.

you might actually be easy company. I’ll just tap out a quick reply that will perfectly sum up my fun, yet edgy, not trying too hard personality in a nutshell with the appropriate emoji. *pours a large glass of wine to prepare for the spontaneity of the situation*

5. Saying the wrong thing

You are convinced that you have always said the wrong thing and mortally offended someone. You can’t even look at your neighbour with the newborn because you once said she looked tired but you’re worried she might think that you meant

Photo credit: Connor Tilson

Time for a cuppa? This month Sal Hanvey shares her recipe for traditional chai tea

s October creeps in and the nights get shorter, I can think of nothing nicer than to do than gathering up some of my herbs and spices to make some authentic and traditional masala chai tea. It is not everyone’s ‘cup of tea’ (no pun intended), however, for me it is one of autumn’s comforts. The sweet smell of cinnamon gets me thinking about the winter ahead and Christmas time. I feel

HEALTH BENEFITS OF CHAI TEA • • • •

It’s anti-inflammatory It can be used to treat nausea Is high in anti-oxidants It aids digestion

like it is ‘comfort in a cup’. I love sitting all cosied up on a comfortable chair, watching the leaves fall and the trees turning from green to brown, and in my hands I hold a cup of delicious masala chai tea. If you need a little time out and you feel like drinking a healthier alternative to coffee, then this just might hit the spot.

Sal Hanvey specialises in reflexology and acupuncture for fertility and maternity. She is also a nutrition advisor. To contact Sal call: 078 0147 6048, email: sal@naturalhealthni.co.uk, or visit www.naturalhealthni.co.uk

Masala Chai Tea Recipe (serves 1)

Ingredients 8oz water 4oz whole milk Granulated sugar or natural sweetener to taste 1 heaped tbs black tea 4 cardamom pods smashed Small piece of cinnamon stick ¼ inch coin of fresh ginger Pinch of fennel seeds (about 10 seeds)

Method Photo credit: Connor Tilson

• Bring water, milk, cardamom, ginger, cinnamon and fennel to a simmer in a medium saucepan. • Reduce to the lowest heat and add in the loose tea. If you don’t have loose tea, just empty out tea bags to make up a tablespoon. I like using Assam tea for a more intense depth and taste. • Steep until the tea takes on a deep, pinkytan colour (about 3 minutes), stirring occasionally. • Strain the mixture into a cup and stir in demerara sugar or other natural sweetener to taste.

t’s all too easy for families to get caught up in the Ferris wheel of life. And it’s not just the adults who are struggling to keep up. Many young people will experience seriously low moods before the age of 19. So, what should we be doing about it? “As a parent, it’s your natural instinct to protect and care for your child,” says Dr Preethi Daniel, clinical director at the London Doctors Clinic. “If they scrape their knee, you’ll put a plaster on it, and if they have a fever, you’ll visit a doctor for medicine.” When the issue is physical, she says, it’s far easier to identify and treat, but when it comes to mental health, it’s often difficult to know what to do. Common mental health triggers, particularly for children at school, include the stress of homework and exams, bullying and – if they’re using social media – external pressures to look and act a certain way.

THE WARNING SIGNS

There are some general signs that parents and guardians can look out for, which may indicate your child is struggling with their mental health, says Preethi. Having trouble sleeping is a key issue, as is struggling at school, isolating themselves and avoiding friends or family, having frequent mood swings or emotional outbursts, becoming obsessed with or completely neglecting their appearance, and having disturbed eating habits — eating far more or less than normal.

Low mood

“Research suggests that nearly a quarter of young people will experience depression before the age of 19,” notes Preethi. “Common symptoms include a constant low mood, being irritable or grumpy, not caring about things they used to enjoy, and having low energy.”

Anxiety

“The feelings of anxiety and worry do not discriminate, and we all may experience this at points in our lives – for example, starting a new school or around exam season,” she says. “However, if your child is constantly anxious with seemingly no triggers, and it’s affecting their day-to-day life, you should seek medical attention. “The symptoms to look out for include struggling to fall asleep, getting angry quickly, constant nerves or worry, finding it hard to focus, or not eating properly. Other

YOUNG MINDS Mental health issues in children: know the signs BY CLAIRE SPREADBURY less obvious signs are if they become clingy, have stomach pain, are feeling constantly unwell or are tense or fidgety and make frequent toilet trips.”

Obsessing about food

There are many triggers that can cause an eating disorder, whether it’s external pressures to look a certain way, or the consequence of another mental health issue. “An eating disorder can have a significant negative impact on various aspects of a person’s wellbeing, so it is important to tackle it early,” says Preethi. “Symptoms include unusual food habits, weight fluctuations, compulsive exercising and obsessive thoughts about food.”

Being self-focused

“ADHD is a neurodevelopmental disorder, which can affect your child’s attention, ability to sit still and self-control,” she continues. “Signs include being self-focused, having trouble staying still or playing quietly, interrupting others when they are talking, lacking focus and making frequent mistakes. Another sign is that your child will daydream a lot and is less involved in activities than other children.”

What can parents do about it?

If you’re concerned about your child’s mental wellbeing, the first step should be to talk to them about it; ask what it is that’s affecting them and why. Preethi recommends taking whatever is causing the issue seriously, as what may seem small to you could be a huge deal for your child. “Try to understand the issue and not minimise what they’re saying or tell them it is not worth worrying about,” she says. Not all children want to talk about their worries however, and parents need to respect this. Instead, Preethi suggests letting them know you’re concerned, and that you’re there for them if they need you – and when they’re ready to talk. You could also encourage them to speak to someone else they trust.

Should you seek medical help?

“Mental health issues can develop and worsen over time if they’re not treated or cared for properly,” says Preethi. “If you’re concerned that your child is experiencing any symptoms, or you think they might have a mental health issue, book an appointment with your GP. A doctor will be able to assess the condition and determine the best course of action.”

Jean Barrett-Quinn: Joyful Northern Woman Photo credit: Emma Kenny

BY ANGIE ASPINALL

fter the moving experience of her own humanist wedding, Jean Barrett-Quinn decided she wanted to become a humanist wedding celebrant. ‘Meeting and working with our celebrant, crafting our ceremony together, and the reality of our wedding day was such a life-changing experience for me that I decided to become a humanist wedding celebrant. I applied to Humanists UK to undertake their wedding celebrant training - and never looked back!’

 ADVERTORIAL

What is humanism? Humanists are non-religious people who shape their own lives in the here and now, because they believe this is the only life we have. The leading charity Humanists UK describes a humanist as someone sees the universe as a natural phenomenon with no supernatural side. Humanists rely on scientific method, evidence, and reason to discover truths about the universe and they place human welfare and happiness at the centre of their ethical decision-making. And of course, lots of people meet this definition without knowing the word ‘humanist’ exists.

Jean sums up what being a humanist means to her: ‘Being a humanist means that I am responsible for seeking joy in my life, for living a life full of kindness, equality, honesty, and integrity - and to do so, not out of fear of the unknown or seeking anyone else’s approval but my own. We only die once but we have the opportunity to live every day.’

Why have a humanist wedding? In terms of humanist weddings, the focus is on the couple, their love, and their feelings towards one another. Jean explains: ‘Many couples know that a humanist ceremony is non-religious and that it focuses on the couple, but they don’t always know how amazing we can make it. Our ceremonies can include any and every ritual

that is important to the couple. Handfasting and ring-warming are definitely favourites with the couples I have married, but other possible rituals include lighting a unity candle, a sand ceremony. I love watching each couple’s reactions when I explain the breadth of what we can do together. n

Further information If you’d like Jean Barrett-Quinn to conduct your wedding, you can contact her via her website: www.jeanbarrettquinn.com For more information on humanist weddings, visit humanistceremonies.org.uk To find a celebrant near you, visit humanistceremonies.org.uk/find-a-weddingcelebrant

ESCAPE

The Off-roading Experience at CenterParcs, Longford

Home, sweet home swap: Why parachuting into someone else’s life is a surprisingly cheap and cultural holiday

“H

ow do you trust people?” the man in my local tyre repair centre asked me. I had just popped in to settle a bill for a burst tyre that a French man had accidentally inflicted on my car the week before. In fact, he and his whole family had been using not only my motor, but my house over a two-week period. In the meantime, our family was in his house in Brittany doing the same. His question made me think: How can you truly be comfortable allowing other people stay in your home when you are not there? How can you really have such trust in a situation like a home exchange? I suppose that the answer is that it’s not

BY CONOR POWER for everyone. For most people, the notion of handing over your house keys to some foreigner is no basis for a holiday. For me, however, there’s no better way to really see a place, and to connect with it and its people on an intimate level. Oh, and to have a really great holiday. The first major plus is the cost. Transport is the only real cost involved in a home exchange – that and the membership fee of your chosen house-swap organisation (on average, about £90 per year). If you swap your car, you may have to pay a very small supplement. The second important benefit is that rather than taking a ‘risk’ with a total stranger, you actually gain a friend. Our first house exchange was with a retired couple from northern Italy, for example. They were

dying to come and stay in our cut-stone house in West Cork while we were drooling over pictures of their summer apartment on the beach in Albissola-la-Marina on the Italian Riviera. Our three boys were small at the time, so a bucket-and-spade holiday in Bella Italia seemed like just the ticket. The months and weeks leading up to the exchange involved lots of questions and answers and exchanging photos and information by email. For Nino and Rita, it was a well-trodden path – they had already been doing it for 10 years. But we were worried about the state of our house. We worried that it was too small for them. We worried that there would be nothing to do for them once they got here. We worried about the weather and felt certain that our Italian visitors would get two weeks of

HOW TO HOUSE SWAP

torrential rain where they wouldn’t even be able to see the great scenery, which was the only thing we had going for us. Essentially, we worried that it wasn’t a fair swap. A certain amount of panic at our end manifested itself in frantic cleaning, repainting, tidying and repairing. We tried to ascertain precise expectations in terms of what we should put away and leave out (the rule of thumb is that you lock away rare or valuable items, or things you don’t want your guests to see, and leave everything else as it is – home exchanges involve mutual respect, and insurance should cover any accidents or mishaps). In our state of confusion, we ended up putting away all the food in the kitchen – including back-up tins of peas and beans. We also cleared out the fridge. That must have been quite a surprise for Nino and Rita, because we found they had done the complete opposite for us. When we arrived at the airport in Genoa, we immediately recognised Nino’s face in the crowd. Meeting him for the first time felt like meeting an old friend. I sat up front with him on the drive to Albissola, skirting

the lush mountains and cutting through long tunnels, chatting animatedly in a mixture of his basic English and my pidgin Italian. The sea sparkled so brightly that it dazzled. At the flat, we met Rita and sat at the table, tucking into a sumptuous lunch involving a dizzying array of Ligurian produce. The ciabatta, the olives, the pesto, the aqua frizzante, the vino… it all tasted fantastic. Then they showed us around their kitchen. The cupboards were full and so was their cellar/wine cupboard. “All this is for you,” Nino said with a wave of his hand. I nodded my head approvingly while in my mind, I flew back to our kitchen in Ireland and ran from cupboard to cupboard trying to find something to eat in them. We had left them a bottle of wine and some home-made bread on the table, but that was it. Such situations can be part of the adjustment process but you have a friendly agreement here – not a business arrangement – so you always find a way around them. That holiday turned out to be one of the most memorable we’ve ever had. Reading the letter that our Italian friends had left for us upon our return, they were even more moved by their wonderful experience in Ireland and they loved our home. Since then, we’ve been to France, Spain and Holland and back to Italy. Each time, we’ve made friends and each time, we’ve had a brilliant holiday – sometimes in places that we wouldn’t have even considered beforehand. One of the best features about the home exchange holiday is that you are parachuted into someone else’s life. You’re using their stuff in their home, essentially. When you have young children, that’s particularly useful as you have all the bits and pieces that you might otherwise be tempted to bring with you at additional cost. You can also get introduced to their friends and/or relatives, and you get an experience that leaves you with the feeling of having truly been to a place, and not just some gated apartment complex or hotel where you’re always set apart to a degree from the local populace. There are inconveniences. One of the big ones is the clean-up beforehand. The

First up, you’ll need to join a home exchange organisation. Annual membership gives you access to an online database. Offers will come in for your house, but you also need to go on the offensive and contact people with whom you’d like to swap. Most organisations allow non-members to browse before committing, so have a look to see which format suits you best. We always used Intervac (intervachomeexchange.com). It’s the original home exchange site, founded in 1953, and the one claiming to have the highest number of active members. Annual membership of £50 (or £100 for two years) gives you access to its 30,000 members worldwide. It also offers a 20-day free trial period. Home Exchange (homeexchange.com) is the largest American organisation. Going since 1992, it claims to have over 65,000 members. Its annual fee is $150 (£123). Love Home Swap (lovehomeswap.com) is a British organisation with a pointsbased scheme allowing non-simultaneous exchange. It offers monthly membership rates starting at £8 per month, and a 14-day free trial period. Behomm (behomm.com) is exclusively for ‘creatives and design lovers’. It’s a club you join by invitation or by approval of the founders after applying. Founded in Barcelona in 2013, annual membership costs $190 (£156).

WHAT TO PACK

Aside from membership fees, you’ll need to cover travel expenses and obvious dayto-day expenses like food and petrol. Bring a small gift, hand-delivered by you from Ireland, to leave for your host. The simple gesture – even a box of Irish chocolates or beer – goes a long way.

advisable approach is to prepare your home as you would if there were an important guest coming. There is a stress factor in this which will invariably involve one spouse repeatedly encouraging the other to get certain repair/replacement/repainting jobs done well in time for the exchange. However, all this hassle is counterbalanced by the fact that once you leave your house to depart on your holiday, the stress completely dissipates into thin air. Then, when you come back home all deflated because the holidays are over, you return to a house that is perfectly clean and tidy, and up-to-date with repair jobs. You’ve not had to worry about break-ins or burst pipes while you were away, and you know that the cat was fed, the bins left out and the plants were watered. As for the Frenchman who burst the tyre on my car? When he rang me to explain his little accident, I could easily have insisted that he pay for the new tyre. I didn’t, because I wanted him to have a nice time in Ireland. That’s how friends tend to treat one another. Besides, I had picked up a speeding ticket while I was driving his car in Brittany and when it came around to paying it, he had no hesitation in looking after it.

California on TWO WHEELS A bike trip through Napa Valley and Sonoma County helps Nicola Brady work up a thirst for Northern California’s wine country

’m slumped on the side of the road, surrounded by rolling vineyards. My bike lies beside me, as incapable of motion as my own red, sweaty limbs. Wavy lines wobble skyward from the piping hot tarmac, and I strongly believe I might be dying. “Hey honey! You need a ride?” A white SUV appears as though a mirage, its concerned owner peeking over designer sunglasses at me, her hair falling in perfect glossy waves (mine is clamped to my forehead under my clammy helmet). “I’m fine! Just taking in the scenery!” It takes every ounce of energy I possess to wave her on, as I realise that my only option is to get off my backside and put it straight back on the saddle. This is all my own fault. A combination of deadlines and a painful foot injury meant that I haven’t trained for this rather epic cycle around Northern California’s wine country. But here I am, on a brand new cycling holiday organised by Grand American Adventures, a small group adventure specialist for 35- to 65-year-olds. My trip weaves through Napa Valley and Sonoma County, led by Mike May and Tavis Moses. I met them in San Francisco, and as we made our way to the starting point in Napa, I decided that I liked them both instantly. Tour guides in previous lives, they’ve known each other for donkey’s years, and as a

team they offer everything you could ask for – they’re witty, laidback, and they don’t laugh at me when I struggle up a hill. And struggle I do. As any cyclist will tell you, the first ride after a long break is always a killer. So when I finally reach Mike and Tavis, who wait for me a little up the road, Mike gently suggests that I ride in the support van for the next few miles. Surprisingly, I don’t feel any guilt, just pure, unbridled joy as we scale the monstrous hills on four wheels rather than two. When I hop back on the bike and reach El Pueblo Inn, our hotel in Sonoma, a jaunty little song plays from the GPS strapped to my handlebars. I’ve never been as happy to see a finish line. And let me tell you, my evening glass of wine tastes pretty good, as we sit in the terrace of HopMonk bar. But while the vineyard-hoppers around us are free to enjoy their wine with wild abandon, we’re on a different schedule. Each morning begins with a logistical plan over maps at breakfast. I eat as though I’m being sent off to battle, and ask endless questions about the day ahead. Mike sorts the bikes before we head off, pumping tyres, checking the day’s route on our GPS devices and gallantly ignoring the yelp I make every time my bum hits the saddle. And while the distances look intimidating, I know that I could always hop into the van if ever it gets too tough.

A Sonoma vineyard in summer The thing is, I never want to. Sure, there are times when I want to stuff a spare jumper into my shorts (saddle soreness is no joke), or when I pull over halfway up a hill just to take a break, as elderly Californians sail past me and I curse darkly under my breath. But when I pull into the stopping points, fill my water bottle and slurp a disgusting pouch of energy gel, I never actually want to quit. We fall into an easy pattern, Tavis cycling ahead and drifting in and out of eyeline, as we make pit stops for flat whites in the pretty town of Petaluma, or protein bars at the roadside, where Mike hands out treats and encouragement. We weave our way to the coast, the first glimmer of ocean appearing over the wide, flat rocks outside Tomales. The trees grow taller, and the air cooler, making the sizeable hills all the more manageable. The late afternoon sky thickens with fog as we cruise into Bodega Bay, which is oddly fitting, considering this was where Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds was filmed. Our hotel, Inn at the Tides, looks out over this murky, moody water, and as a foghorn blasts I decide the best place from which to drink in the atmosphere is from the hot tub, an ice-cold beer in hand. The piping hot water feels inexplicably good, and the condensation drips saucily down my can of beer as I brag to the holidaymakers who join us: “Oh us? We cycled here from

Vines in Napa Valley

INSIDER TIPS GOING THE DISTANCE

Over six days, I cycled a smidge over 300km, climbing a total of 9,111 feet. Each day, there’s a main route and a more strenuous ‘burner’ option, for those who want to really push themselves.

GET THERE

Nicola was a guest of small group adventure specialist, Grand American Adventures. The six-day Cycling California Wine Country tour costs from €1,819pp, including accommodation, a custom-fitted bike, breakfast and some meals. She flew from Dublin to San Francisco direct with Aer Lingus, flights cost from €480 return. Napa Valley Sonoma, 80km, no big deal”. Though the next morning is damp with mist, we hit the road early, my bum clenching as I speed down a few of the undulating hills that line the coast. We’re finally on the Pacific Coast Highway and the scenery is the kind that makes you feel positively giddy, and grateful that we live on such a pretty little planet. Tiny pink daisies grow up from the rocky cliff edge, violent waves crash against the shore below, and California poppies spurt up on the roadside as I sail on past. Sauntering up the coast I start to feel strong and exhilarated. It would be one thing to drive up this infamous road, but seeing it from a bike is something else altogether. And just when I think it can’t get any better, we hit the redwoods. As we move in from the coast the road cuts through the mountains, the fog clears and these towering trees appear, piercing the blue sky and soaring towards the heavens. Mike has driven on ahead, and when we stop at the Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve, he’s waiting in a clearing, next to a picnic table filled with platters of turkey wraps, fruit and energy bars. It tastes

incredible, all smothered in that rich sauce of smug adrenaline and endorphins. When we leave the redwoods the sun is splitting the stones, the roads soundless bar the swoosh of my tyres. The vineyards return, the bird-repelling silver ribbons adorning the vines shimmering in the sunshine. I stop at the roadside to snap a picture and steal a tiny grape from one of the vines, the small and dusty globe bursting with juice. It has been, without a shadow of a doubt, the best day I’ve ever spent on a bike. And I only get stronger and fitter. Towards the end of my week, I’m even keeping up with the machine that is Tavis, cycling alongside him, nipping into cute general stores for kombucha and chatting as we soar along the empty roads. I manage to indulge in my number one hobby (asking nosy questions about other people’s lives) whilst simultaneously partaking in the second favourite (cycling interspersed with eating). And let me tell you, California is a dream to cycle through – the motorists are respectful, and the cycle lanes gloriously wide. As we drift back towards the

WHERE TO STAY

Calistoga Motor Lodge & Spa is a deliciously retro motel with an incredible hot spring spa - and a massage is included in the trip; rooms cost from $209. Inn at the Tides has great views in Bodega Bay from $239.

WHAT TO PACK

Obviously, you’ll need all your regular cycling gear, and it’s a good idea to bring at least two of everything - padded shorts/ tights, short- and long-sleeve jerseys, then gloves, helmet, etc. You’ll be cycling on chilly, foggy mornings as well as sweltering afternoons, so layers are key.

direction of Napa, the sun heats up a few degrees, the horizon seems to broaden and the landscape becomes beguiling in a different way – the arching trees dripping in Spanish moss and dappling the roads like tortoiseshell. It’s all head-spinningly gorgeous, and as we approach Napa once again, I can’t believe it’s all over. This is the finish line I’ve been waiting for all week, but if I could turn my bike around and start all over again, I would. And this time, I’d get up that blasted hill.

Gemini Man

Terminator: Dark Fate

Movie roundup James Oliver’s selection of new films coming to a cinema near you this month

Joker

Based on the world-renowned comic book character of the same name, this standalone tale explores one man’s struggle to find his way in the world. Arthur Fleck is a man pushed to the brink of insanity by today’s society and how he’s treated in his jobs; clown by day and stand-up comedian by night. Starring: Joaquin Phoenix, Robert DeNiro and Zazie Beets Release date: 4th October

Judy

This biography/drama centres on the iconic Judy Garland as she arrives in swinging London in the winter of 1968 to perform in front of sold-out crowds. As she prepares for the shows, she argues with management, charms adoring fans, and embarks on a whirlwind romance with Mickey Deans; her soon-to-be fifth husband. Starring: Renée Zellweger, Jessie Buckley and Finn Wittrock Release date: 4th October

Director Ang Lee (Life of Pi and Brokeback Mountain) heads this Sci-Fi thriller which sees aging hitman Henry Brogan come faceto-face with a younger enemy he can’t seem to outsmart or outwit... a clone of himself. Starring: Will Smith, Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Clive Owen Release date: 11th October

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil

Maleficent: Mistress of Evil is Disney’s fourth live action adaption released this year. Maleficent and her goddaughter Aurora question the overarching, complicated family bloodline that binds them together as they are pulled in different directions by dark new forces at play. Starring: Angelina Jolie, Elle Fanning, Michelle Pfeiffer Release date: 18th October

Terminator: Dark Fate

When Skynet sends a powerful new Terminator from the future in order to terminate Dani Ramos, a hybrid cyborg human and her friends, Sarah Connor teams up with the original T-800 Terminator to fight the new threat and save the future once and for all. Starring: Arnold Schwarzenegger and Mackenzie Davis Release date: 23rd October

Doctor Sleep

Having survived the horrors of ‘that’ hotel, this sequel to The Shining sees a grownup Dan Torrence coming across a young girl who shares in the same gift as he has. Dan must now try and protect this child from a cult who is in pursuit of the girl’s powers, all the while dealing with his own demons. Starring: Ewan McGregor and Rebecca Ferguson Release date: October 31

Joker

Film release dates are subject to change. For more movie review and news from James Oliver see: @jamesoliverfil1

was delighted to be invited to the CenterParcs launch weekend. I went along with my brother, sister-inlaw and their three kids who are aged from seven months to nine years old. I was blown away by how family-friendly the holiday village was, and feel it’s a destination where you will make memories for life with your loved ones. I have since been recommending it to anyone who will listen and the majority of people respond by saying they have heard it is really dear. So is it? Well, that all depends on when you go. If you book in during peak summer holiday season, then yes unfortunately the accommodation is expensive. However if you are in a position to be flexible and can visit on another occasion, there are great deals to be had.

Accomodation

I priced the lowest rate for a weekend stay in a lodge that accommodates two adults and two children. To check in on Friday 18th October 2019 the stay costs €579, whereas a booking on Friday 25th October will set you back an eye-watering €959 (school holiday time). The same accommodation for the majority of weekends in January costs €439 and is priced from €459 in February. A midweek break, as you would expect, is much cheaper and you get an extra night. A four-night stay in October costs from €429 (which fluctuates to €1199 at Halloween), and a midweek break in November costs between €359 and €399. So what’s included in your stay?

Things to do

There are fantastic free playgrounds on site with indoor soft play areas, outdoor parks and 400 acres of forestry to explore, a treasure hunt trail, unlimited entry to

“But isn’t CenterParcs really expensive?” How to visit Ireland’s new holiday village without spending a fortune BY CATRIONA DOHERTY the swimming pool, and a man-made sandy beach to play on. The Subtropical Swimming Paradise, Ireland’s largest indoor water park, is heated to 29.5°C all year round and has something to suit all ages; wave pools, indoor and outdoor lazy rivers, toddler play areas, rides, slide and flumes. Because the pool was so warm and there was so much to explore, we effortlessly whiled away hours there with the kids happily playing and splashing about. Other activities come at a fee; €6.75 pp for crazy golf and €37 pp for a threehour spa session for example. There’s pretty much every activity you could imagine – from chocolate chefs academy to den building, creepy crawlies safari, cheerleading camp, treetop adventure, crazy science lab, owls encounter, off-road exploring, and so much more. You can’t check activity rates without an active accommodation booking.

Money saving tips

If you can, bring your own bikes with you to save on the cost of rental – €35/€25.50 per bike for the duration of your stay. While cycling isn’t a necessity – it is a novelty, and with lots of tracks and woodland to circuit, I’d highly recommend exploring the village on two wheels. The village is a car-light zone and the majority of guests get around by cycling or on foot. The restaurants and take away prices were on par with what you would expect to pay in any Irish city, e.g. a kid’s pizza was €5, but an obvious way to cut costs is to dine in. The lodge kitchens are well

equipped for cooking. Do a supermarket shop en route, or buy food from the on-site Parc Market (prices are standard). There are towels in the lodges but not at the pool, so bring your own to save on rental cost (€2).

To go or not to go?

CenterParcs spent an incredible €233m on Longford Forest’s high-spec lodges, pool complex, aerial adventure park, man-made lake and boating facilities, Ireland’s largest spa, and village of restaurants and shops. The resort felt clean, safe and modern, and we received a friendly, warm welcome from the locals. “Half of Longford works here,” one staff member told me as he chatted about various family members and their roles. His sense of pride palpable, that Longford is home to this swish new holiday resort. My family and I had a ball and our experience was overwhelmingly positive. So to sum up, “Is CenterParcs really expensive?” Yes accommodation is expensive during school holiday periods and beyond the reach of many families, but value-for-money holiday breaks are available during non-peak times. Homework and prep is required to get the best rates and stretch budgets once you are there. Adventure awaits…

For more information on Center Parcs visit: www.centerparcs.co.uk

N O K C RO NW chats to Belfast singer/songwriter John Harbinson, known as Harv, who has just landed a three album deal with Metalapolis Records – one of the biggest rock/metal labels in Germany Readers may be familiar with your music having seen you perform locally, tell us about your bands.

I have been in rock and metal bands for a long time, since my teens actually when I first began playing rock music as a bassist. Later I started singing, I developed fairly quickly and caught the attention of local band Sweet Savage who had been on the road supporting Thin Lizzy. Sweet Savage boasted the guitar talent of Vivian Campbell who went on to join Dio and Whitesnake and now plays with Def Leppard. When he left I joined up, we became Emerald and quickly rose up the ranks and supported WASP, Rory Gallagher and Thunder amongst others. After Sweet Savage I joined a band called Den Of Thieves and we recorded two albums for the Zero Corporation in Japan.

This was around 1996 and the grunge movement was really starting to take hold; Nirvana, Pearl Jam and bands like that were what record companies had become interested in, and Den Of Thieves was put on hold until we could ride out the grunge storm. In the meantime I had been asked to join a Whitesnake tribute called Snakebite – all local guys, all brilliant musicians. We did some amazing shows in the Belfast Empire and this caught the attention of local promoter Davy Warren who was bringing over some huge bands from America now that the rock scene was back on its feet again. We recorded songs in Mudd Wallace’s Homestead Studios and those recordings formed the basis for the album which gave birth to my current established band Stormzone. Since then we have gone on to release six

albums. And now after nearly 15 years of being Stormzone’s singer I have recorded my solo album, which is being released on October 25th. TWISTED MIND is an excellent temporary diversion from Stormzone but that’s all it is; Stormzone will always be my top priority.

Congratulations on your three album deal – how did it feel to be signed?

It felt fantastic, I’ve been involved with other record companies in the past and signed album deals but it was always with bands – the efforts of five guys being the determining factor in whether or not a record company will release your recordings, but this time I had the spotlight firmly focused on myself. My joy in being signed to Metalapolis Records was intensified because this was

Stormzone. Photo by Marc Leach

Harv’s artwork had written with Andrew Baxter from the Irontown Diehards years ago. I talked to musician/producer extraordinaire Shawn Nelson from Ironheart, gave him the bare bones of the ideas which Andrew and I had created and asked him to put flesh and blood into them, which he did a majestic job of doing. I sang with a degree of aggression because of personal circumstances which had arisen during the period that Shawn was creating the music, and I think that was a good thing because I didn’t want to sound exactly the way I have done on Stormzone albums - I wanted there to be a noticeable difference.

What was the inspiration behind it?

Harv. Photo by David Stewart the company that I had firmly set my sights on. Waiting on news was quite nervewracking. Thankfully though Metalapolis contacted me to say that they wanted to release the album and sign me to a three album deal over five years.

How did your new album John Harv’s TWISTED MIND Into The Asylum come about? After Stormzone released our last album, our drummer Davy Bates decided to hang his sticks up and we had a period of downtime. This allowed me to consider the option of a solo album. I had the songs, most of which I

Into The Asylum reflects where I’ve been over the last couple of years. The basic storyline is the tale of an asylum owner who becomes possessed by the building and ends up being its sole inmate. It’s about being in control and the responsibilities which come along with being in charge of your life, and then factors emerge to throw you off balance. The asylum is basically life becoming grey and taking control of someone who, to anyone who knows him, seems the least likely person to succumb to pressure. I’ve always been one of life’s most positive and optimistic people and for a long time my life reflected the control that I had over it; happily married, with a young son, and my music and art becoming increasingly popular. But then right out of the blue almost two years ago, I succumbed to a very powerful bout of anxiety, an indescribable feeling of despair with an inability to control it or understand it. It lasted for four very, very long days until I was prescribed anti-anxiety medication and I was thankfully released

from the grasp that this grey feeling had over me and I returned gradually to normal. I guess my solo album is a reflection of this period. I painted the album cover artwork which features me on the steps of the asylum with the building of despair looming in the background. I wanted the asylum building to be the dominant feature in the artwork and to look as imposing and intimidating as possible. The album isn’t depressing in the slightest, the subjects are evident in many of the lyrics but the music is mostly very uptempo and uplifting; everything turns out good in the end.

Where can readers get it?

Into The Asylum will be available in many record shops all over Europe, and on Amazon, Discogs and other online platforms.

You studied art and design tutored by Neil Shawcross, and are an accomplished artist. Does your music influence your art?

Only really if the artwork is specifically for something musically related. I listen to music constantly when I am painting, and yes it’s nearly always rock music which may account for certain brush strokes or areas that don’t need detail, and the music I am listening to at that particular time may well affect the way a part of the painting ends up looking.

Best of luck with your new album!

Thanks, I hope that some of your readers are intrigued enough to check out my album when it is released on October 25th, and maybe also take a moment to investigate my band Stormzone, or even enjoy the prospect of paying Spain a visit in October/November to see Snakebite perform and sing many Whitesnake classics with me. I hope to see you all at a gig somewhere soon!

Deco Heron Ready Made Curtains, Deco Heron Double Duvet Set and Deco Heron Moat Navy Cushion

What inspired your first interiors collection The Chateau at Harvey Norman?

The capsule collection, produced with Design Studio, is inspired by my home Chateau de la Motte Husson; a beautiful 19th-century French chateau with fairytale turrets and a moat. Each of the original four designs tell a story of the Chateau’s hidden treasures and enchanting grounds. The whole collection is a celebration of this.

What can people expect from The Chateau’s four collections? WALLPAPER MUSEUM

In 2015, I found offcuts of all the early wallpapers used in the Chateau since it was built in 1868. I cut diamonds from the designs and created a patchwork which became the Wallpaper Museum in one of the towers. This was shown in one of the early episodes of the TV series. For years now we have received messages from fans all around the world asking if they can come and see the Wallpaper Museum – it was a story that really touched viewers.

HERON We are very lucky to be surrounded by a moat, not only is it peaceful and full of fish, but every morning a heron perches on a rock and eats our fish. My daughter Dorothy has taken a real liking to our adopted heron, often shouting at the top of her voice “The Heron…The Heron!” It usually flies off at this point, but we all run to the window to see it in flight. In Japanese culture, the bird represents a noble and graceful appearance and a sign of purity, I suppose that must be why I’m drawn to it.

Deco Heron Double Duvet Set and Deco Heron Moat Navy Cushion

Five Minutes with

Angel Strawbridge Northern Woman chats to Escape to the Chateau’s Angel about her new interiors range Whilst visiting Northern Ireland to launch The Chateau, do you have any other plans for when you are here?

POTAGERIE Inspired by my husband Dick and his walled garden (a ‘Potagerie’ in France), I originally designed the collection to decorate the romantic Potagerie Suite which has the best view of the garden from within the Chateau. The collection is a thoughtful homage to him.

Angel Strawbridge

ORIENTAL GARDEN The Oriental Garden collection is inspired by my love of oriental design. I have a massive collection of kimonos and regularly take cuttings from the bamboo plantation and blossoms at the Chateau.

How can NW readers get their hands on the new collection? It is available in-store at Harvey Norman in Belfast. Further afield you can find it in Moores of Coleraine, The Whitehouse in Portrush, Kenneth Charles & Co in Cookstown and Dreamland Bedlinen, Omagh. It’s also available in-store and online at Next and online at Argos. The collection starts from £21.

Spending quality time with the whole Strawbridge family to celebrate my husband Dick’s 60th birthday. We have just gone on a lovely family minibus tour around some of the places from his childhood. Dick’s mum and sisters live in County Antrim, so our visits here are always special.

What do you love most about living in your gorgeous French chateau? Everything! The history, our beautiful grounds and being able to have a family home which is also a business that allows us to spend lots of time with the kids. This has always been our dream.

What have you got planned next for Chateau-de-la-Motte Husson?

Lots of things! We can’t give too much away but we have been working on some exciting projects and renovations, many of which will be revealed in the new series of Escape to the Chateau which returns to Channel 4 this autumn.

LIVING

Credit: Cult Furniture

Are you an empty nester? Breathe new life into your home this autumn with Sliderobes

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easons bring change, and for some families, this autumn will see a significant shift in life at home. Temperatures are cooler, the days are shorter, and summer clothes are long packed away to make space for jackets, jeans and boots. For parents whose children have left home, it feels they’ve grown up in the blink of an eye. Bedrooms become empty, as students begin to pack up for university. From the moment the exam results are in, it’s a whirlwind of planning, packing and paperwork. One minute you are buying pots and pans, and the next you are waving goodbye. Now with more time to yourself, this should be an exciting time for you as a parent - a new stage in life. This is a rite of passage. Whether your child has gone to university, or started a job and moved out, it’s time to switch gears and build a life beyond the empty nest. Take advantage of the now bare bedroom and transform it into a room you love. Think of it as the perfect opportunity

to breathe new life into your space. Raising a family usually dictates everything, from which decor we choose to how much we can spend, but the perk of an empty nest is that you have a clean slate. Some families move when children leave home, but the current housing market is convincing most homeowners to stay put. Instead, they are opting for home improvements that increase property value and quality of life. During all those school runs, what did you dream about having the time, energy and space to do? Now is the time to do it. Convert any room into a home office, cinema, gym, guest room, luxury dressing room or craft room. Sliderobes can help. Sliderobes designers

reinvent spaces every day with practical and stylish made-to-measure storage solutions. Rooms of all shapes and sizes can be transformed into innovative and exciting multifunctional spaces. So, at Christmas, there is still somewhere for your children to stay when they visit and somewhere for you to enjoy when they aren’t at home. Sliderobes make awkward nooks and crannies useful with fitted furniture and storage. Sliderobes built-in furniture is high quality, locally manufactured and designed to suit your tastes and lifestyle. n

Visit the new Belfast showroom display on Boucher Crescent and take advantage of an amazing £250 of free luxury extras when you buy a Sliderobes wardrobe. T&Cs apply. Ask in store for details. Can’t make it to the showroom? Sliderobes designers cover all of Northern Ireland. Call 028 9068 1034 for a free home design appointment and see your ideas come to life.

IS FOR AREA RUGS

More than just toe-friendly floor fillers, they can be used to delineate a space – particularly useful in open plan rooms with more than one function. As well as pattern and colour consider carefully the size and shape of your rug when shopping. In a dining space, the rug should be big enough for your chairs to remain on the rug when they’re pulled out. We’re loving this handtufted 100% wool Aria rug, £519, from Audena.com

IS FOR DECKING BOARD

IS FOR BLEACH-CLEANABLE

Carpet, that is. Time was when stains were the ruin of a good carpet, now you can get a specially developed, high-quality 100% polypropylene that’s not only stain-resistant but bleachcleanable too.

Ikea’s easy to lay Runnen decking boards, made from recyclable polypropylene plastic, available in a range of colours and finishes from just £20 a square metre, are the perfect DIY floor fix. Use them to instantly transform a back yard or balcony into an extension of your living space.

IS FOR ECO-FRIENDLY

IS FOR CARPET TILES

Although this trend is still largely confined to boardrooms and commercial premises, carpet tiles in cool colour combos and various patterns – planked designs, checkerboard and chevron arrangements - are popping up all over Pinterest.

Using natural, renewable, recyclable and home-grown materials is huge right now so it’s no surprise that cork, bamboo and rubber flooring made from recycled car tyres are gaining ground underfoot. ‘Eco carpet’ is officially a thing too with Mohawk (Mowhawkflooring.com) leading the movement with carpet made from plastic bottles and corn sugar.

IS FOR FLOOR STICKERS

Instagram mood boards abound with gorgeous images of custom-painted stairs but you needn’t pay a fortune to achieve a truly bespoke finish. For a more hard-wearing solution consider decorating the risers with self-adhesive stickers. Purlfrost stair stickers (Purlfrost.com) are available in a range of colours and patterns and are made to order.

A to Z of flooring

Your essential alphabet of what’s trending underfoot. From bamboo to rubber, vinyl rugs and mosaic laminate we’ve got it covered BY RÓISÍN CARABINE 66

IS FOR INSTALLATION

While it’s a good idea to do a rough estimate of the size of your room so you can budget accurately, measuring and fitting any type of flooring is best left to the experts. Rely solely on your own measurements and you could end up ordering too much or too little; fit yourself and you could affect your floor’s warranty.

IS FOR JUXTAPOSITION

Juxtaposing different floor types in one open space goes against all the design rules; using the same flooring throughout can help to connect zones and make the space appear visually bigger. But it’s a trend that is gaining momentum. We love how homeowners on Pinterest are juxtaposing hexagon tiles with solid wood floors in open plan kitchen-living areas. Swoon.

IS FOR KALEIDOSCOPE

A collection of on-trend graphic geometric and pretty patterned floor designs in wood, stone and block colours by UK luxury vinyl flooring specialist Karndean. Two new additions to the range include Marrakesh and Casablanca (pictured - from £34.99 per square metre), inspired by traditional Moroccan and medieval Spanish architecture. Visit Karndean.com for local stockists.

IS FOR LUXE

IS FOR GINGHAM

Fashion’s favourite fabric staple is now available as a luxury vinyl floor thanks to Amtico, and we love it. But if gingham flooring is a step too far, fret not. You can create your own design-led floor just how you like it from Amtico’s new Signature Collection. With over 100 different designs and 217 colours and textures to choose from as well as 19 laying formats it couldn’t be easier. Visit Amtico. com for local stockist details.

IS FOR HEXAGON

The metro tile’s replacement is a six-sided showstopper. Hexagon tiles, or ‘hex’ tiles for short are perfect for adding a touch of geometric chic underfoot. Choose all one tone for an understated vibe or mix finishes and colours to create a stunning honeycomb-shaped work of art. These Perla large hexagon mosaic stone tiles by Original Style cost from £13.95 per piece. Visit Originalstyle.com for NI stockists.

With homeowners embracing the less ordinary when it comes to hardwood flooring, sustainable exotic species like Brazilian cherry, Tevara tea, iroko and wenge are gaining popularity. While they look gorgeous underfoot there are a few things to keep in mind when shopping: research the species before buying and look at the Janka rating (that’s the hardness rating). Understand too how the species will react to moisture and central heating systems.

IS FOR MOSAIC

We love mosaic but it does tend to be rather pricey and a bit fiddly to install – so hats off to Flaquon Flooring for its new Quadraic mosaic laminate floor tiles. They look just like the real deal but without the hefty price tag. Durable and water resistant, they’re perfect for adding a pop of colour and interest underfoot in the bathroom. Prices start at £19.99 a square metre from Directflooring.co.uk

IS FOR NATURAL CARPET

With a surge in interest in sustainably sourced flooring, it’s no surprise that plant-fibre flooring such as sisal, seagrass, coir and jute (pictured, Eichholtz Voyage jute carpet from Sweetpeaandwillow.com) are gaining popularity. They are 100 percent biodegradable and usually processed in an ecologically sound way. While today’s designs are more refined and softer underfoot than their previous counterparts, purchasing does come some cautions: they can be hard to clean and can shrink if not left to acclimatise before being laid. And not all types can be used on stairs.

IS FOR PATTERNED TILES

For serious statement floors with punch nothing beats patterned tiles. They’re perfect for adding instant drama and colour to small rooms like utility rooms and bathrooms. The bathroom pictured above has been floored in Laura Ashley wicker charcoal floor tiles from Dublin’s Tile Merchant (Tilemerchant.ie). In hallways and dining areas use patterned tiles to create a rug-like effect, by opting for patterned tiles that come with coordinated plain tiles within the same range.

IS FOR RUBBER

Durable, slip-resistant and easy to clean, rubber is perfect for hard-wearing areas like bathrooms and utility rooms. Plus it’s super funky (and warm) underfoot and comes in a choice of colours, patterns and textures, including smooth and raised dots. Flooring specialists Harvey Maria (Harveymaria.com) sells smooth rubber flooring on a roll (by order) and in 50x50cm studded tiles in 10 colourways, including Forever Green and Fossil Grey (pictured), from £36 a square metre.

IS FOR OAK

When it comes to hardwood flooring oak, in all its many guises – natural, white, red, black - is still the firm favourite. Opt for wider planks or mixed width planks for a less uniform, more individual feel. For wet areas like bathrooms and kitchens consider engineered oak; it also works perfectly with underfloor heating. Neptune’s (Neptune.com) Marton engineered oak boards (pictured) cost from £170 for 2.8 square metre pack.

IS FOR QUIRKY

Fed up with the usual flooring options? Why not create your own? Pinterest is littered with quirky alternatives – though not all of them practical – from flooring made from copper coins and wood off cuts to floors covered in wallpaper and even stained brown paper bags.

IS FOR STAIR RUNNERS

Elevate your staircase from bland to beautiful with a stair runner. Forget pre-cut runners and stair rods though. The current trend is to have carpets cut and customised into stair runners with cotton binding each side. Pictured is Carpetright’s new Columbus Houndstooth Carpet in Mono, from £32.99 a square metre.

IS FOR TERRAZZO

The 500-year-old Venetian comeback floor filler that’s still essentially marble chippings set into poured cement has been remastered for modern homes with endless colour and material options (think glass and metal fragments, not just marble). For a pocket-friendly alternative, choose porcelain look-a-like terrazzo tiles – cheaper than the real thing and easier to maintain.

IS FOR UNDERLAY

An essential purchase if you want to prolong the life of your carpet and prevent undue wear and tear. Underlay also insulates and reduces noise. As a rule you should always invest in new underlay when buying new carpet – and don’t scrimp on the cost. Underlays come with a tog rating; the higher the tog the better the insulation.

IS FOR XTRA LARGE

Extra-large format tiles are growing in size – and popularity – with some porcelain tiles now as big as 150x300cm. Super sleek and streamlined, they’re perfect for emphasising large open spaces although look equally fabulous in small bathrooms, especially when used on the walls as well. Aesthetics aside they’re practical too; they cover large expanses quickly and there’s minimal joints to grout and clean.

IS FOR YARN

When it comes to carpet, wool is still regarded as the best fibre; it’s soft and luxurious, doesn’t flatten easily, keeps its appearance well and is naturally flameretardant. When buying wool always check the quality and strength of the yarn. For superior performance 100% New Zealand wool in 3-ply loop pile is best; a cheaper alternative is a mix of 80% woo and 20% nylon. Pictured is Country Living Thaxted 100% wool carpet in Platinum, from £34.99 per square metre, from Carpetright.

IS FOR VINYL RUGS

The latest must-have floor toppers from Barcelona-based Hidraulik are easy to clean, extremely durable, fire resistant, waterproof, hypoallergenic, anti-slip and fully recyclable. Available in a choice of sizes, shapes and colours they’re suitable for just about every room. We’re loving this Avinyo rug, £90 from Zazous.co.uk.

IS FOR WOOD-LOOK

Forget the naff pretenders of yesteryear, the latest wood-look tile floors are so hyper-realistic they’re almost virtually indistinguishable from the real deal thanks to a textured top surface that mimics the natural finish of real wood planks. Ragno’s Woodchalet wood effect porcelain floor tiles (pictured) even features subtle veining and knots. Visit Ragno.co.uk for NI stockists.

IS FOR ZIG ZAG

AKA chevron. Not forgetting checkerboard, harlequin, herringbone, diagonal and mixed width. We’re talking layout patterns – this year’s hottest flooring trend. One quick look at Pinterest and Instagram and you’ll see how ultra-creative layout patterns have become. We’re loving this herringbone pattern Oak CC Dim White engineered wood flooring by Kahrs from £64 per square metre. Visit Kahrs.com for stockist details.

HIGH STREET HIT LIST Shop autumn’s top 10 high street homeware hits for under £10 BY RÓISÍN CARABINE

Kimball Gold Globe Lamp from Primark, £10

Cosmo Brass Candlestick holder from Debenhams, £10

Vintage Garden Amber Plant Spritzer from Paperchase, £6 Coat rack in Ash Wood from Sostrene Grene, £9.31

Global Nomad Small Rattan Bowl from TK Maxx, £7.99

Amelie Print Wax Candle from M&S, £5

Mini Lace Edge Hanging Frame from Oliver Bonas, £6.50

Stacking Stoneware Salt Shaker & Pepper Shaker from Zara Home, £7.99 each

Apartment Apparel Ribbon Shade (9217375) from Argos, £10

Printed Cushion Cover, 50x50cm from At Home With Poppy Delevingne Collection at H&M Home, £6.99

Ten toxic guests found at every wedding Coming to a table plan near you, Amelia Michaels shortlists the 10 most irritating guests out to steal the thunder on your big day. We can guarantee at least one is showing up at yours! Bridesmaid from Hell

She’s the first desperate wedding guest to come under your radar and you weep about the day you gave her the job. There’s something bitter about this one and she’s bringing her storm cloud to the top table. Review that friendship post nuptials!

The Heckler

Brash and far too frickin’ audible during the speeches. You’ll grin and bear their retorts using every inch of your being to stop yourself from hurling something at them. Brain melters in the highest order.

The Drunk Uncle

He’s not got moves like Jagger. He’s the

one you need to watch on the dance floor because if anyone is going to send you to A&E on your big day, it’ll be Uncle Blocked.

The Neglectful Parents

They brought their kids and ditched them the minute the church doors closed. You’ll find these sprogs playing chasies while you have your first dance and vomiting beside the sweetie cart later in the evening. You’ll find their parents nowhere in sight.

The Random Strangers

Aunt Agnes, whose existence only arose when writing your invitations, can’t make it so she brass necks it and sends TWO randomers in her place. You’ll think they’re

from his side and vice versa. They will photobomb every pic too, and if there’s a free bar you can rely on Mr and Mrs Random to drink it dry.

The Aspiring Beyoncé

She’s forgotten the reason why she’s there and gives zero ***** that it’s your big day. This one will hog the dance floor. Probably wearing white and with mouth like a potty. Most likely to arrive as an evening guest too.

The Tight One/s

Mr and Mrs Skinflint arrived at your big day with their arms the one length. They don’t do shame. Or gifts for that matter.

Debbie Downer

She’s going to full on hijack your big day. A time thief of the highest order, she will most likely force her drama on you at the most inopportune time. Dodge her like a bullet. There’s no room for a pity party at this fiesta.

The Mother or Mother-in-law Who Can Never Be Pleased She’ll suck the happiness right out of your big day, floating around with her virtual magnifying glass and finding fault in everything from the food to aunt Francis’ shoes. Introduce her to Debbie.

The Gatecrashers

They’re gonna get to the cake before you do, steal your centre pieces and probably pull Debbie Downer. Normally good craic because of their appreciation of going (relatively) unnoticed.

Artist, Keith Ayton

Home is where the art is

Belfast-based landscape painter Keith Ayton talks to Northern Woman ahead of his upcoming solo show, Gallery 1608...

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Where do you take your inspiration from?

I refer to myself as an Irish landscape painter. It seems to have always been a part of my internal aesthetic. As a youth, I spent many weekends in Portrush and other areas along the North Antrim Coast and Donegal, walking and cycling. As an adult I was fortunate enough to have a job for many years which involved travelling the whole island of Ireland. As a teenager in the 70s, escaping into the countryside helped me to identify what was important to me about where I came from. Soaking up, sometimes literally, all the culture, atmosphere, light, wind, sounds and smells of this beautiful land. I relish long walks along desolated beaches and coastlines, whatever the weather and draw continued inspiration from the land and the elements.

Who influenced you as a painter?

In the early days at college I admired everybody from old masters to postImpressionists, but I was always experimenting and trying to find my own way of painting. I remember reading about Gustave Courbet, the French Realist,

close to the end of his life and exiled in Switzerland, being asked why he no longer painted. His reply was along the lines of “You can’t paint what you don’t know”. This has stuck with me as I try to imbue my work with the personal response I feel, as I soak up the atmosphere, wherever I am.

How do you technically approach your work?

I suppose I have a strange process. I use preliminary drawings and sometimes photography as aide-mémoires, but all the time I’m thinking and editing down to what’s important to me at that time and trying to get a feeling for the work. Eventually I arrive at a distilled sketch, which then leads on to selecting the shape and size of canvas. Once transferred to the canvas, I close everything down and just paint very intensively. It might sound strange not to refer to your preliminary work, but I find that this process leads to transferring what I visualise and feel in my mind on to canvas.

What are the most important characteristics of your art?

Probably a sense of place. While I deliberately try to leave out iconic landmarks, I still strive to fill the paintings with information about where they are from. I don’t live in a sunny climate with azure skies all the time. So, I paint what I

see and feel. I know the places where the work is based but don’t feel the necessity to show for example, Binevenagh or the Causeway as markers for the viewer. I can drive back to the rocks in Portstewart or Portrush and know where I stood as I watched the waves crashing in the dark. Those particular paintings are about waves, movement, cold, wind and colour and my personal response to the experience at the time.

How have your former career roles influenced your art?

For many years I worked as a technical salesperson working across Ireland. Therefore, I travelled the length and breadth of Ireland many times, visiting areas for work, but getting the benefit of spending time there. I have a real interest in ancient Ireland, so, I would visit Lough Gur on a summer evening in Limerick or go to Carrowkeel if I was in Sligo or even climb Slemish over lunch time. I still hunt out dolmens, standings stones, passage graves and old graveyards, though they don’t feature in my paintings as much as they used to in my early work. Although the sense of the past that these sites emanate certainly does, and it also leads to a sense of belonging and identity.

Keith’s work can be seen at Gallery 1608, 83 Main Street, Bushmills from Saturday September 28 at 2pm until Saturday October 12

Mr & Mrs Photography by Paul Moane

ounty Down couple Romni Millar and Paul McGreevy met as teenagers. “Being together from such a young age, we really grew up together,” Romni begins. “We travelled a lot and shared the same ambitions on what we wanted in life.” Nine years after they first met, Paul popped the question on deck during a Caribbean cruise. The couple set the date for 6th April 2019. “We wanted the wedding to be all clean lines and minimalist with a twist of something different,” Romni explains. “My leather headpiece and our marble effect cake and stationery added a slightly modern edge.” The bride looked sensational in a twopiece from Halfpenny London, accessorised with a bespoke ivory leather headpiece by Lori Muldoon Millinery, Swarovski earrings, and an emerald and diamond ring which was a wedding gift from Paul. In the evening Romni changed her top for a mesh crop top with ivory leather flowers, also by Halfpenny London. “Our wedding photographer was Paul Moane who was fab,” Romni says. “He made us feel at ease in front of the camera and the pictures were so natural. “Our cake was by Dawn McCabe from Wedding Cakes by Design. Dawn created the most amazing wedding cake ever. It was a three-tier hand-painted marble design.” The Third Letter, Downpatrick, supplied the wedding invitations, and band Housem8s ensured the dance floor didn’t empty all night. Romni’s favourite memories of her day include the speeches and of “dancing all night” with her new husband and loved ones. Pauls adds: “My favourite part was the excitement of my bride walking up the aisle, and spending the day with friends and family.” The newlyweds honeymooned in Singapore, before enjoying an 11-night cruise around Malaysia and India, before finishing up in Dubai.

Venue: Slieve Donard Resort and Spa, Newcastle Wedding dress: The White Gallery, Newry Bridesmaids’ dresses: The White Gallery, Newry Groomswear: Red Groomswear, Belfast Hair: Romni Millar Hair Lounge, Downpatrick Hair: The Studio Makeup & Beauty, Newcastle

Mr & Mrs Thompson Photography by Chris Copeland

ntrim teenage sweethearts Megan Stevenson and Jordan Thompson met at junior choir when they were 14, friendship blossomed into romance a few years later and they started dating in 2011. Jordan begins: “As cliché as it sounds, it was very much love at first sight for me. I remember thinking that Megan seemed different than the other girls as she appeared to be very caring and rather shy considering how pretty she was.” Megan says: “What really made me fall for Jordan was the devotion he showed towards me throughout our friendship. He was always there for me and he knew how to make me laugh. A quote by John Green in The Fault in Our Stars illustrates perfectly how I feel for him: ‘I fell in love the way you fall asleep: slowly and then all at once’.” Jordan pulled off an epic proposal at Megan’s 21st birthday party. He had taught himself animation and created an elaborate video of the couple’s love story, which he played before getting down on one knee. The couple booked the Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort as Jordan had worked with the venue previously and “trusted them to provide a smooth and polished wedding”. They chose Chris Copeland as their photographer after meeting him at a wedding fair. “We found Chris really easy to talk to and feel comfortable around, plus we loved his style of photography,” Megan says. Jordan availed of the Moss Bross ‘Tailor Me’ bespoke service to create a three-piece navy suit, and Megan looked absolutely sensational in a Katie May wedding dress. The groom’s band The Promise performed a short set at the reception; family friend Nick Williamson designed the stationery; The Rosehip And Berry Floral Studio supplied the flowers; and Cake Couture NI created the five-tier cake. Jordan’s favourite memories of his day are of the ceremony, he says: “My wife and I sang a hymn together, and I played the guitar. For a brief moment we allowed something that was personal to us to be shared with our close friends and family.” Megan adds: “Jordan and I wrote a few sentences of things we love about each other, which we read before our wedding vows. His words really touched me and it solidified the love between us.”

Wedding dress: Ivory & Pearl, Comber Bridesmaids’ dresses: Exquisite Bridal, Carrickfergus Groomswear: Moss Bros, Belfast Venue: Galgorm Spa & Golf Resort, Ballymena Hair: Olivia Muldoon, Dungannon Makeup: Tara Doran Make Up, Newry

✷UPLO GO D

E LE ARIN SUBMNTURE, E ADV 7.99 £1

Enjoy imaginative play with your toddler and help them develop key skills on a LEGO DUPLO Town 10910 Submarine Adventure. This educational bath toy for toddlers provides lots to learn and talk about as young children pretend to film the whale and fish with the toy camera. At bath time, the toy submarine floats and bubbles on the surface as the whale glides by and the fish blows bubbles below.

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Transport your youngster to the excitement of the amusement pier on the LEGO Friends 41373 Funny Octopus Ride. Kids will love recreating the thrill of a fairground ride with this LEGO Friends set. It features an octopus body and at the end of its tentacles are four cars shaped like cute sea creatures.

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It’s competition time with LEGO Friends 41372 Stephanie’s Gymnastics Show. Give the gift of endless fun with this multi-event LEGO gymnastics arena. This creative building set for kids features three disciplines: the trampoline, parallel bars and floor, each of which can be fixed to the main stage when it’s performance time.

Explore the world of

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LEGO MARVEL AVENGERS ULTIMATE QUINJET, £74.99

Team up with the Avengers and fly into conflict against the Chitauri in the LEGO Marvel Avengers 76126 Avengers Ultimate Quinjet. This awesome jet features an opening minifigure cockpit, stud shooters, adjustable wings, spinning rotors, opening passenger compartment and an opening rear compartment with a fold-out 6-stud rapid shooter and stud-shooting trike.

TECH TOYS Kids can experience fun ghost-catching adventures LEGO H combining an augmented IDD GRAVE EN SIDE reality play experience with YA MYSTE RD RY this LEGO® Hidden Side™ £24.99 , 70420 Graveyard Mystery playset. This awesome app toy combines a buildable LEGO model with augmented reality for kids to deliver a fully interactive play experience.

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Gather the family for a rewarding build and play experience with the LEGO Disney 71044 Train and Station. Kids will love to join Disney characters Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Chip, Dale and Goofy for magical adventures with this awesome LEGO train set, featuring a motorized steam-style LEGO D locomotive with tender, passenger ISNEY T RA AND ST ATION IN car and a luxurious parlor car, plus , £299.9 an oval track and an iconic Disney 9 Parks®-style station building.

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Build an awesome fire monster and role-play a thrilling LEGO Marvel Spider-Man 76128 Molten Man Battle. The buildable Molten Man mechanical buildable toy figure features posable joints, a gripping claw, 6-stud rapid shooter, buildable ‘melting’ objects including half a car, street lamp and a traffic light attached to its body, molten lava elements and attachment points for minifigures.

Bring your LEGO® creations to life with the new LEGO BOOST Creative Toolbox—a fun and easy way for your 7+ builder to learn the basics of coding, engineering and robotics. Simply choose one of the 5 models available with the BOOST set, download the free, easyto-use app and you’re ready to go! Choose between Vernie the Robot—a moving, talking robot; the M.T.R.4 (Multi-Tooled Rover 4)—a robust, versatile rover with 4 different tool attachments including a spring-loaded shooter; the Guitar4000—a musical instrument with pitch bend and sound effects; Frankie the Cat—an interactive robot pet that plays, purrs and expresses its mood; or the AutoBuilder—an automated production line that really builds miniature LEGO models! Then bring your creation to life with the app’s intuitive, icon-based coding interface and complete an array of exciting activities designed for each model.

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Louise Houliston, Hilary Campbell, Pauline Irvine and Helen Reid

Marie Louise McKendry and Christina Woods

Belfast One Way Edit Belfast One brought the latest in high street fashion trends to Belfast City Hall recently showcasing retailers from throughout the city centre and their Aw â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;19 collections. Hosted by radio host Rebecca Maguire, the event also celebrated the cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s resilience a year after the Primark fire. Eighty outfits from the likes of Debenhams, Burtons, Rio Brazil and more as well as a makeup and beauty masterclass from MAC entertained guests who sipped on Prosecco upon arrival and were treated to goodie bags with treats from Lush, Cafe Parisien, MAC, Dunnes and more. Photography by Brendan Gallagher

Clare Maguire and Rebecca McKinney (centre) and models of Belfast One-Way Edit

Model Steven Burnett

Emer Dooris and Chloe Gamble

Golda and Gianna Irvine

Chrissie Russsell and Nicola Bothwell

Chris Turkington, Marty O’Neill, Inga Norvylite, Hama O’Reilly and Conor Hogan

Belfast Restaurant Week Launch

Invited guests went on a culinary city walking tour recently to celebrate the launch of Belfast Restaurant Week. They heard about the choice of 600 dishes on offer at 40 restaurants in the city that have signed up to be part of the joint venture between Belfast One and Destination CQ. Guests feasted on tapas at Deanes Deli, a succulent main course and wines at Cafe Parisienne and dessert and cocktails at Margot. The latter are just three of the venues taking part in the autumn event. Photography by Collette O’Neill Gareth Neill, Michael Deane, Chris McFerran and Clare Maguire

Marcus Hunter-Neill and Nuala Meenehan

Emma Deighan and Claire Craig

LET’S DRINK TO…

Transylvanian wine for Halloween

BY PAULA GRACEY

utumn, the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness – I absolutely love it. The leaves changing through their palates of fabulous colours, the misty mornings and beautiful sunrises. It also means Halloween which I wholeheartedly embrace with the wide-eyed excitement of a small child. There is a crazy streak afflicting my family which means we all love to dress up and Halloween is one of the highlights of our year with a cracking party at my cousin’s house which is adorned with spectacular spookiness. I am always a vampire – in fact, I feel altogether far too comfortable dressed in one of my five (yes five) vampire dresses, complete with inflatable wings. And what else would a vampire drink at a party but Transylvanian wine? Transylvania is a historical region in central Romania, bordered on the east side by the Carpathian Mountains and made famous by Bram Stoker in his 1897 novel Dracula. Along with its native grape varieties which I struggle to pronounce, Romania also makes Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay and Pinot Noir to name but a few and quality is improving all the time. In the last 10 years, Romania has seen the emergence of quality, small wine producers. No need to venture to Dracula’s homeland to stock up on Romanian wines for your thirsty vampires this Halloween, you could just call into Asda. The Asda Bradshaw Pinot Grigio (£5.50) is a fresh, dry white wine with aromas of crisp apple and pear and the palate is light and juicy with refreshing hints of grapefruit and pineapple. This is a great white for an aperitif as well as with salads and grilled fish dishes. The Asda Romanian Pinot Noir (£4.75) is a beautiful garnet colour and has inviting aromas of dried cherries and violets. The palate is juicy and berry filled with a lovely velvety smooth finish. As with most Pinot Noirs you can serve this one slightly chilled to accompany salads and light fish or chicken dishes, or, serve at room temperature to complement richer game dishes and spicy foods. Both these Romanian wines are crowd pleasers, won’t break the bank and should wow any werewolves you invite to your party. Happy Halloween everyone!

Wine Recommendation from Rebecca Robb: AMORE E PASSIONE MARTINI

all is here in all its glory, the red, yellow, brown hues of the crisp leaves below our feet heralding the start of true Autumn. October is an exciting month in Italy for festivals as the Italians celebrate the bountiful harvest of the Summer. On my bucket list has to be the White truffle Festival held annually in Alba. This rare mushroom is on offer for locals and visitors to sample freely whilst partaking in the wonderful wine tastings also on offer. Live music and hot air balloon show overhead add that little bit of extra excitement to what must be quite a unique experience. Another autumnal festival the Euro Chocolate Festival hosted in Perugia has to be one to visit if you are a chocoholic like me! Word has it you can smell it before you see it with hot cocoa, chocolate liqueur and cascading chocolate fountains everywhere you look. This month’s cocktail uses produce from another gastronomy haven, France. Using the legendary Grey Goose vodka, our Amore E Passione Martini is the perfect tipple to brush aside any post summer blues that may be creeping into your happy place! Made using soft winter Picardie wheat grown in the so -called “breadbasket” of France and distilled with only the purest spring water from a limestone well in Gensac-La-Pallue in Cognac, Grey Goose is a French triumph. Year on year the farmers who grow the wheat produce a product that is consistent in quality, a tradition that has been carried through eleven generations of passion and excellence. Cellar master at Grey Goose Francois Thibault oversees the distilling process with precision and attention to detail such as only rinsing the empty bottles with Grey Goose vodka to produce a spirit of clarity and integrity. I have chosen Chefs Spiced Sausage Linguine to partner our Martini. It has a lovely chilli kick that the passionfruit and pineapple will complement beautifully. Wrap up in a blanket with your loved ones, gather round the outdoor table, light up the fire pit, breathe in the crisp evening air and Buon Appetito! SPICED SAUSAGE LINGUINI Ingredients: 450g linguine pasta 25g butter 1 tsp finely chopped rosemary 700g fresh ripe tomatoes, peeled, seeded and diced salt and freshly ground pepper pinch sugar 175-225g chorizo and N’duja sausage pinch crushed chilies 125-175ml double cream 3 tbsp finely chopped flatleaf parsley 4 tbsp freshly grated parmesan Method 1. Melt the butter in a saucepan, add chopped rosemary and diced tomatoes. 2. Season with salt, pepper and sugar. 3. Cook until the tomatoes have just begun to soften into a sauce, which takes about 5 minutes. 4. Slice the Chorizo into 5mm pieces and break up the N’duja and then add to the pan with the crushed chilies. 5. Add the cream and two tablespoons of chopped flat-leaf parsley, and allow

to bubble for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until the cream has reduced by half. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside 6. Cook the pasta until it is ‘al dente’, drain and stir into the sauce with the grated parmesan. 7. Sprinkle with remaining flat leaf parsley and serve. AMORE E PASSIONE MARTINI Ingredients: 35 mls Grey Goose La Vanille 15 mls passion fruit liqueur 50 mls pressed pineapple juice 35 mls passion fruit puree Prosecco Method 1. Ice Martini glass to chill. 2. Dispense ice and place all ingredients in a Boston shaker with ice. 3. Shake vigorously and strain into Martini glass. 4. Garnish with dehydrated passion fruit slice and a shot glass of Prosecco on the side.

TASTE of Home

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he family run distillery near the shores of Strangford Lough has since established itself at the forefront of Ireland’s spirits renaissance and is home to some of the north’s best-known spirits including the iconic Dunville’s Irish Whiskey, Jawbox Gin, Echlinville Gin and Bán Poitín. Echlinville is Ireland’s first true farm distillery, meaning they craft their spirits from the ground up. As yet unreleased, Echlinville Whiskey is crafted from barley grown, harvested and floor malted by hand on their distillery farm. Every drop has been ‘trickle pot distilled’ to maximise flavour and mouthfeel before ageing and maturing in speciality casks in Echlinville’s maturation warehouse. Their distillery story is one of provenance, pride in their roots in the Ards Peninsula and devotion to the ancient art of distilling. Echlinville is the proud custodian of the iconic Dunville’s Irish Whiskey. Originally produced at the Royal Irish Distilleries in Belfast until its tragic and untimely demise in the 1930s, Dunville’s was once one of the world’s best known whiskeys. It was Echlinville’s founding goal to revive this iconic Belfast brand and restore it to its rightful place among the premier whiskeys of the world. Since its revival in 2012, Dunville’s has won 16 major international awards, including 10 World Whiskies Awards. Echlinville’s passion for creating the perfect spirit doesn’t stop at whiskey. The distillery is home to some of Ireland’s best known gins. The World Gin Award winning Echlinville Gin is also holder of the coveted top Three Star rating at the Great Taste Awards, with the judging panel describing it as ‘exceptional’, ‘quite stunning’ and ‘truly outstanding’, concluding: “In a world filling with gins, this one stands out.”

The Echlinville Distillery - a story to be explored Nestled among the rolling drumlins of the Ards Peninsula, The Echlinville Distillery became the first newly licensed distillery in Northern Ireland for over 125 years when it began production in 2013 and today it is offering whiskey and gin lovers the chance to explore its story… Echlinville offers a range of visitor experiences including distillery tours and tastings, afternoon teas and private group tours. The Echlinville Tour & Tipple offers a real insight into the workings of their fam distillery. Guests can enjoy welcome refreshments before following the journey of their spirit from ground to glass. View the beautiful copper stills and enjoy the earthy aromas of the whiskey maturation warehouse – but be

careful not to disturb the sleeping casks. After you have discovered how Echlinville captures the flavour, colour and mouthfeel of its spirits, relax and enjoy two drinks from the award-winning selection of whiskeys, gins, poitín or vodka. A great day out for any spirits enthusiast.

The Echlinville Tour & Tipple is priced at £18 per person and booking is essential at www.echlinvillle.com/visit

Beyond oats In this special feature White’s Oats invites you to ‘Taste the Journey’ with these Autumnal recipes ...

Spiced Lamb, Kale & Chilli Flatbreads Warming spices, lean lamb and chilli greens guaranteed to bring comfort when it’s needed most. Preparation time: 15 minutes, plus proving time Cooking time: 20 minutes Servings - 4 Ingredients 85g (3oz) strong white bread flour 55g (2oz) wholemeal flour 55g (2oz) White’s Jumbo Organic Oats 1/2 tsp salt 1 tsp instant yeast 1 tbsp olive oil 200g Curly kale, thick stalks removed 300g (10oz) lean minced lamb 1/2 tsp ground coriander 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1 fat red chilli, thinly sliced 2 garlic cloves, very thinly sliced 2 tsp tikka curry paste Method Tip the strong flour, wholemeal flour, half the oats and salt into a large mixing bowl. Sprinkle over the yeast and stir well. In a measuring jug mix together 1 teaspoon of the olive oil and 100ml cool water. Pour the water into the flour mixture and bring together to a soft slightly sticky dough - adding a little extra water if necessary. Tip the dough onto a lightly oiled surface and knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth. Place the

dough in a lightly oiled bowl, cover and set aside for about 1 hour or until doubled in size. Preheat the oven and a baking tray 220*C/fan oven 200*C/Gas 7. Tip the dough onto a lightly floured surface and knead for 1-2 minutes. Divide into 4 equal sized pieces and roll into an oval shape about 1 cm thick. Bake on the preheated oven tray for 8-10 minutes until risen and beginning to colour. Meanwhile, blanch the kale in a pan of lightly salted boiling water for 2 minutes. Drain well and pat dry with kitchen paper. Heat the remaining oil in a frying pan and fry the minced lamb, coriander and cumin for 3-4 minutes breaking up the mince with a spoon and stirring frequently. Add the chilli, garlic, curry paste and kale and fry for 2 minutes. Stir in the remaining oats. Season to taste. Chargrill the flatbreads if liked and spoon the minced lamb mixture over the top. Serve immediately.

Autumnal Pear and Blackberry Porridge Soft poached pears and plump juicy blackberries are the perfect match to this lightly cinnamon spiced apple porridge. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Servings - 2

Ingredients 1 large pear, halved, cored and cut into 6 wedges 85g (3oz) blackberries 150ml (1/4pint) apple juice 1 mint sprig, plus a few leaves for decoration 100g (4oz) White’s Jumbo Organic Oats 700ml (11/4 pint) sweetened almond milk 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 red skinned apple, coarsely grated 2 tbsp White’s Apple, cranberry and raspberry Granola (optional)

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Method Place the pear, blackberries, apple juice and mint sprig into a small saucepan, cover and heat very gently for 12-15 minutes until the pears are softened and the poaching liquid is pink. (the poaching liquid can be boiled down to a thickened syrup if liked) Discard the mint sprig. Meanwhile, place the oats, almond milk and cinnamon into a saucepan over a medium heat and bring steadily to a simmer stirring for 4-5 minutes until thick and creamy. Stir in the red apple and spoon into shallow serving bowls. Spoon over the pear and blackberry compote. Scatter over the muesli (if using) and mint leaves and serve immediately

Seedy Butternut and Sage Soda Bread Soda bread has played an important role in Irish cuisine since the early 19th century. It’s easy to make and bakes quickly providing a wholesome loaf of bread in under 45 minutes - no proving necessary. Amazing served warm straight from the oven with lashings of butter and jam or toasted with softly poached eggs and even with hearty soups or stews.

Preparation time: 15-20 minutes Cooking time: 35-40 minutes Makes 1 loaf Ingredients 75g (3oz) White’s Jumbo Organic Oats 250g (9oz) wholemeal flour, plus extra for dusting 300g (10oz) plain flour, plus 1 tbsp. 1 tsp sea salt 1 ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 150g (5oz) peeled and deseeded butternut squash, coarsely grated 4 large sage leaves, finely shredded plus 3 to garnish 450ml (16fl oz.) buttermilk 2 tbsp. mixed seeds 1 tsp olive oil Method Preheat the oven to 200*C/fan oven 180*C/ Gas mark 6. Reserve 1 tbsp. of the oats and set aside. Place both flour’s, remaining oats, salt, bicarbonate of soda, butternut squash and shredded sage into a large bowl and mix well. Stir in the buttermilk until just combined. The mixture should be soft and spongy. Turn onto a lightly floured work surface and knead very lightly -just enough to shape into a 20cm (8inch) circle. Place on a lightly floured baking sheet. Mix together the reserved oats and mixed seeds and scatter over the dough. Using a sharp knife score a deep cross into the top of the dough. Dip the remaining sage leaves into the olive oil to coat evenly and arrange over the top of the dough. Bake in the sell rkets middle of the erma cream. p u s e large imply to th oven for 35-40 Most milk next ot find it s e r n v e n li t minutes until a t ) c z u b you l (10o ver, if ith 300g with 125m well risen and e w o w H d e e . c k ix la il rep when you tap urt m ed m al yog kimm natur z) semi-s the base of the (4flo bread it sounds hollow

’s Cook

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Belfast born and blended have helped us forge trusting relationships with growers, based on our mutual love of great tea”. Their considerable success in the prestigious Great Taste Awards is undoubtedly due to their obsessive love of quality and the fact that they personally taste-test each and every blend they produce.

Celebrating local iconic event

Camille and Jamie Thompson on a recent visit to tea gardens in Assam, India.

n 1896, from a tea warehouse near Belfast docks, founder Robert S Thompson, trained in the art of tea tasting and soon became known for his uncompromising devotion to quality. Today, Thompson’s Tea, who make Northern Ireland’s best-selling tea, Punjana, have been blending and packing their award-winning range in Belfast for over 120 years. As fourth generation Thompsons, they share this passion for quality and take great pleasure in selecting teas from only the very finest gardens in Assam, Kenya and

Whilst the Thompson family has been blending tea in Northern Ireland since 1896, it wasn’t until much later that the Punjana brand name was born. It was in the early 1950’s that saw both the arrival of The Open on the links at Portrush, and the birth of the Punjana brand on the streets of Belfast. The fantastic coincidence of timing recently inspired Thompson’s Tea to commission artwork in the style of the popular railway posters to commemorate the return of The Open to Royal Portrush Golf Club earlier this summer. The visual, which An award-winning cuppa reflects the iconic back The Thompson family have drop overlooking White long striven to make the Rocks beach from the ‘perfect everyday cuppa’ and 5th green, was featured with their performance in on billboards across Belfast the Great Taste Awards it would and Portrush town centre. appear they have done just that. Having amassed 20 Gold Stars The Thompson’s range of Ross Thompson said: “We at last year’s Great Taste Awards, award-winning black teas have been delighted with the positive feedback we this takes their tally to over 100 received since launching our outdoor poster stars since first submitting their teas a campaign in Northern Ireland. It has been decade ago. The highest honour of three a lovely surprise to see that members of the stars (awarded to less than 2% of all entries) public have been in touch to let us know has been awarded to Thompson’s Punjana, how much they have liked these posters. Irish Breakfast, and Signature Blend. We have even had requests to print copies Joint Managing Director Ross Thompson so that people could hang them in their comments: “For generations of Thompsons, home!” tea has been our obsession. We care about In a world of large-scale manufacturing, every single pack of tea that we produce where quality can often be sacrificed in the and select teas only from growers who quest for a lower price, Thompson’s Tea share our passion for making something continues to be uncompromising in their special. These teas are grown in exotic devotion to blending better tea and simply climates, far from home, but our frequent refuse to do it any other way. n visits to tea gardens in Kenya and Assam

Thompson’s Punjana railway poster celebrating The Open.

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Ross Thompson trying his hand at tea picking on Mungania tea garden in Kenya.

beyond. These tea leaves are highly prized and command a greater price. These are the leaves which find their way into the Thompson’s blends. It takes a certain amount of courage to choose what is best over what is most profitable, but the Thompsons stay focused on sourcing only the highest quality tea leaves, and simply can’t be persuaded to do it any other way.

Armagh - the capital of cold milled flaxseed Armagh may be a county widely known for its orchards but did you know it is also the headquarters for the one of the world’s biggest producers of cold milled flaxseed?

INWOODS, based just outside the city of Armagh, has been producing a range of health foods including milled flaxseed, nuts and berries for over 15 years. The internationally renowned company is proudly serving healthy eaters with natural and largely organic produce in over 20 countries. What is special about the range is that LINWOODS break down their seeds through a very particular cold milling process. Through this treatment the valuable nutrients within the seed are protected and once consumed our bodies can absorb all the goodness quickly. In a busy world many of us strive to live a life of healthy balance. LINWOODS offers us a convenient solution to adding the goodness of fibre, protein and Omega

Autumn Minestrone Soup

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Preparation Time - 10 minutes Cooking Time - 20 minutes Servings - 4 Ingredients • 2 cloves of garlic minced • 1 small red onion finely diced • 1 tbsp olive oil • 400g passata • 60g cashew nut butter • 400ml water • 2 tsp vegetable bouillon • 1 large corn on the cob • 1 small courgette diced • 1 red bell pepper diced • Salt and Pepper to taste • Thyme to serve

Method 1. Preheat oven to 200C (400F). Place red pepper, corn and courgette on a baking tray, drizzle with 1 tbsp of olive oil and roast for 20 minutes. 2. Add garlic and onion to a pot with 1 tbsp olive oil and cook for 3 minutes. Add passata through to bouillon. Mix well, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. 3. When the veggies are cooked, slice the corn off the cob and set to one side. 4. Add the soup to a blender and blend until smooth. Return to the pot, season to taste and add in veggies. 5. Serve garnished with fresh thyme and a generous tablespoon or two of LINWOODS flaxseed with sunflower, pumpkin, sesame seeds and goji berries.

3, amongst other nutritionally-rich vitamins and minerals, to our diet. Many find it easiest to add two tablespoons of LINWOODS to meals we are already eating such as soups, yoghurt, salads, and cereals. If, however, you are the more adventurous cook why not try the latest LINWOODS recipe from food blogger, Peachy Palette. n

LINWOODS health food ranges can be purchased in Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Holland and Barrett, Centra and many other retailers.

Taste the Island

The Taste the Island experience offers over 150 gastronomic experiences across Northern Ireland to tickle the taste buds

Pictured at Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen (L to R) are local food and drink bloggers, Robert Ainley and Lynsey Hollywood from Down the Hatch NI, Tracey Jeffries from Tracey’s Farmhouse Kitchen in Killinchy and Tourism NI’s Food & Drink Development Officer, Gary Quate.

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12-week celebration of Northern Ireland’s finest food and drink, tasty experiences and scrumptious adventures has kicked off this week, encouraging people to ‘Taste the Island’. ‘Taste the Island’ is a three-year initiative developed in partnership between Tourism NI, Fáilte Ireland and Tourism Ireland that gives people a chance to savour and truly experience the world-class, mouth-watering food and drink offering in all corners of Northern Ireland. The programme of events includes a number of regions, featuring the Taste Causeway Festival and Slow Food Festival Derry~Londonderry in October, and Belfast’s Twilight Market and the Armagh Georgian Festival in November. Experiences across the autumn include a gourmet weekend of island delights on Rathlin, discovering the magic that goes into beer-making at the Whitewater Brewery Tour in Castlewellan, trying your hand at gin distilling at Hughes Craft Distillery in Moira or experiencing a live cookery demonstration with Niall McKenna at James Street Cookery School. Tourism NI’s Food and Drink Development Officer Gary Quate is

encouraging everyone to enjoy what’s on offer across Northern Ireland. “We are running an extensive programme of events and experiences as part of Taste the Island, including everything from visits to food producers, food trails and food festivals, hands-on workshops and the chance to sit back and enjoy the best of modern local cuisine in traditional pubs, restaurants and cafes,” said Gary.

µµTourism NI has been working with the food and drink industry on this initiative to showcase the best of our award-winning food and drink.∑∑ “Tourism NI has been working with the food and drink industry on this initiative to showcase the best of our award-winning food and drink. We want to provide local and international visitors with experiences and events that will encourage them to discover our exciting local food scene and create lasting memories which will make

them want to return,” he added. Tourism NI is also offering those who try the local food and drink offering the chance to win some unique foodie experiences by sharing their experience on Instagram. To enter, simply post your #TastetheIsland experiences and tag @discoverNI, with an exciting weekly prize up for grabs, from cooking up a storm at Forestside Cookery School to gin tasting with the Shortcross Experience tour. n

For the full programme and to book a Taste the Island experience, visit: www.discovernorthernireland.com/ tastetheisland or follow #TastetheIsland

R E G BLOG CORNER BY CHLOE SAFFRON

oday has been the happiest I’ve ever been. I haven’t always been like that though. I struggled with depression, anxiety and chronic fatigue for years. When searching for help, doctors suggested taking anti-depressants. Even though I was at rock bottom and wanted to be happy so badly, I knew deep down that this was not the way to get there. It felt like putting a plaster over a deep wound. I realised that no one else was going to save me but myself. Either, I could keep going the way I was going and get worse or do something different. I made the decision then to commit 100% to transforming my life. I began by cutting out all the unhealthy relationships. I cut out meat from my diet, I ate healthier and I exercised. I started a meditation practice which is really where I met myself for the first time. I read personal development and spiritual books. I spent time getting to know myself again and trying new things. I began shifting my mind set from negative to positive, and doing the deep inner work. That is how I healed myself of all depression, anxiety and chronic fatigue. I chose my happiness. I went on my first solo trip to Spain and then lived in Barcelona for year. During my year in Barcelona, I continuously challenged myself outside my comfort zone by going hiking alone in the mountains, hitchhiking and travelling alone to new countries. After Barcelona, my intuition called me to go to South East Asia. Everyone told me not to go because it was “dangerous” for a young girl to travel alone. I chose to follow my heart. I made life-long friends, experienced incredible adventures and met my soulmate. Lesson learned; always listen to your inner compass, even when it defies logic and everyone is telling you otherwise. After healing myself, I felt an urge to help other people. My soulmate and I moved to Australia for a year to work and travel. I went to public speaking to overcome the fear of being seen and heard. Every time I went, I just happened to sit beside life coaches and motivational speakers. I ignored it at first, yet the universe kept showing me the way. The signs were right in front of my eyes, and I accepted this is what I was meant to do to help people. Terrified and excited, I took the leap and launched my online coaching business. I now help women one-on-one and in group programmes to embody their power, boost their confidence, awaken their feminine flow and clear the blocks holding them

Credit: Photo by Peter Bruce Photography

Choosing happiness back to become an energetic match to their soul desires so they can create their best life. I also created Belfast Sisterhood, a community of like-minded women supporting each other, with events like women’s circles and workshops. The thing is, you don’t need to wait until your back is up against a wall to become the best version of yourself and create your best life. You can decide to do it now. It all starts with saying “yes” to yourself. Of course there will always be fear trying to keep you inside your comfort zone. Your mind will give you excuses like “maybe I’ll start tomorrow” (which we both know means never so start now), “I don’t have enough money” (create it) or “I don’t have the time” (prioritise it). However, today is the safest the world has ever been. The most incredible experiences in my life have come from going outside of my comfort zone. It doesn’t mean you don’t have any fear, it just means

that you lean into the resistance and take the leap anyway despite your fear. It’s the quickest way to build confidence (along with doing the deep inner work). You can either allow your mind to control you, or you can use your mind to create your best life. Your beliefs, thoughts, emotions and behaviour are all creating your current reality. Align them with the life you want to have and you’ll start to see it unfold in front of you. You are an extremely powerful creator. Your birth right is to live your most extraordinary life. If I could go from rock bottom to thriving and living a healthy and happy life full of love, abundance, magic and beauty, so can you.

For more from Chloe see @chloe_saffron on Instagram, @chloesaffroncoaching on Facebook, and chloesaffron.com

NELSON

K N OWS

The WONDER years

BY EUNICE NELSON

oday I stood at my kitchen window and watched my daughters play with their cousin. Such a mundane Sunday afternoon activity but I was rooted to the spot, no more able to look away than I was able to stop the catch in my throat or the joy in my heart. To the untrained eye the scene looks so normal. Three little girls playing pretend and messing about on a trampoline, a garden cluttered with toys. But if you look a little closer you might see the wheelchair sitting off to the side. You might even notice that one of the little girls is playing on the periphery of the games. Trying hard to join in but not really sure how to. These things are so obvious to me now but they can’t dim the happiness I feel at watching my daughters play together, watching them laugh at the same things and enjoy being sisters. It is such a rare occurrence that I often wonder what their relationship will look like as they get older. I wonder what the years ahead will bring. Ally (10) and Jessie (almost 6) do not play games together. There are no Saturday mornings spent fighting over the remote, no giggling together at whatever trouble they are getting into, no shared bedrooms and no shared secrets. They are sisters who

lead very separate lives because disability has come between them; Ally has cerebral palsy and Jessie has autism. Jessie’s lack of communication and frustration scare her big sister because when Jessie lashes out Ally cannot escape her reach. Ally always tells me how much she loves her little sister but she won’t stay in the same room alone with her. Their conditions are poles apart in terms of what challenges they face, but similar in terms of how much care they need and my days are spent divided between them – playing dolls with Ally or on the trampoline with Jessie, but almost never with both. It’s exhausting and sad and scary. I think it’s fair to say that for most people, no one knows you quite as well as your siblings. They know every dumb thing you’ve ever done, every tragic haircut you’ve ever had and every idiot you’ve ever dated. No detail is ever forgotten and the stories are trotted out at every available opportunity. They can push your buttons and embarrass the hell out of you without even trying. The flip side of this however is that no one will ever love you as fiercely or protect you as bravely as your brothers and sisters. They are the only other people on earth who get your families individual craziness and laugh at the same twenty year old jokes. Even with

µµI’m not entirely sure how to overcome these differences but I’ll never stop trying∑∑

a bit of an age gap (I’m younger) my sister and I are best friends. She is my sounding board and my support system and I’d be lost without her to confide in. She also likes to remind me about the one Christmas when I ate selection boxes until I threw up, then missed dinner. Like I said, siblings are such a treasure. At least my older brother offered to do useful things like beating up ex boyfriends – not that I ever took him up on it, I swear. Yet it’s thoughts like this that make me worry about my own girls. The differences between them seem cavernous some days. Ally is a chatterbox while Jessie is non-verbal. Ally is a wheelchair user while Jessie is constantly moving, bouncing and flapping. Yes, my siblings and I are all very different but we will always have our childhood in common, sent out to play together, walking home from school together and in our later years going out together. We have watched each other get married and raise children and while we are not overtly affectionate, we are definitely close. So I often wonder what will keep my girls close as they get older. They will attend different schools (that meet their needs), have very different interests (because of their different abilities and of course because they are individuals) and may never be able to fully communicate with each

other. I’m not entirely sure how to overcome these differences but I’ll never stop trying. I’m a big enough person to admit that when I had my second baby a little bit of me had a secret hope for the future. Don’t get me wrong I never wanted another carer for my daughter, just someone who would always be there to offer unconditional love and support. Someone who would be there for her when I no longer could. But life rarely goes according to plan and my husband and I are now both parents and carers to two amazing little girls. I recently saw a meme on one of the special needs pages that I follow on Facebook and it went something like ‘I hope my special needs child lives a long and happy life, and I live one day longer’. Now to most people this probably sounds selfish but in reality the sentiment behind it comes from love. From the primal parental desire to keep out little ones safe, happy and loved in a way we feel only we can provide. Recently Jessie has been making more of an attempt to join in and it’s the most amazing thing to watch. She will follow Ally and I to whatever room we are playing in, she won’t join in with our game but finds something to amuse herself with. Even without direct interaction it still feels like she is reaching out to us or maybe just wanting to be close to us. Either way it’s a huge step in the right direction and it makes my heart happy. I’d like to think that it will be love that keeps them close, that family will be their common ground, that maybe one day they will sit around like other kids and bond over how annoying and embarrassing their parents are. I’m trying my best to give them plenty to complain about.

NORTHERN MAN

What Jeff Meredith has been up to this month

Camping chair from TK Maxx £12.99

Cutlery set from National Trust Shop £8

Campingaz camp bistro 2 stove for hiking and camp-sites from Decatahlon £17.99

i folks, And so it’s autumn! After that summer we’ve just had, I know I’m already planning for next year’s holidays. Can I make one suggestion? CenterParcs in Longford right in the centre of Ireland. Okay so the sunshine and heat issue might still exist but trust me, it’s worth it. We recently went for a preview weekend to see what it was all about and left happy and buzzing from a few days of fun fun fun. Actually, we’ve already booked to go back again next spring off-peak and during the week, the cheapest time to go. I’m all for holidaying as much as I can, but they have to be good deals, because then I can go on more. Did I mention in previous columns that I’ve started swimming in the sea? I’ve discovered a little beach frequented by wild swimmers every morning at 9am, and I join them twice a week. It definitely takes your breath away getting into the water – it’s not the Med after all – but once you’re in and you get your breathing under control you can spend a half hour swimming. Ask me again in mid-winter how long I can stay in for; I’m guessing mere minutes. Watch this space!

I’m also trying out a course of facial treatments with Galgom Spa & Golf Resort. My outdoor lifestyle exposes my skin to all sorts of damage so The Skin Clinic at Galgorm offered me six treatments using Skinceuticals products to help repair a little damage and improve my skin. I’ll keep you updated. Did you know the Galgorm group have started a collaboration with Galgorm Castle and golf course? I’ve visited the Castle Kitchen Bar for lunch and although as a vegan there was limited choice for me, but what I did have was outstanding; good bistro style food and big portions to fill your boots with. I’ll be going back for more. This autumn sees the first of three years of an all-Ireland tourism initiative called, Taste The Island. It’s a celebration of local food and drink throughout the island, so keep an eye out for festivals and events to celebrate our local food and drink producers. It’s going to be a tasty three years with a lot of excuses to eat my way around the island vegan of course.

Decathlon tent £59.99 and chair £24.99

Torch Ultra Bright LED from Wilko £3

Castle Ward campsite. Credit: National Trust

Camping at Crom. Credit: Chris Lacey

Castle Ward sunset

RECOMMENDED CAMPSITES

National Trust Castle Ward Caravan and Campsite, Downpatrick National Trust Crom Campsite, Newtownbutler Kilbroney Caravan Park, Rostrevor Benone Tourist Complex, Limavady Delamount Country Park, Killyleagh Maguire Strand Camping, Ballycastle

set myself a challenge this autumn; to learn about camping in Northern Ireland and to actually try it out for myself. With a tent, mattress, sleeping bag, chair and gas hob from Decathlon, I headed out on an adventure to the cutest little campsite on the grounds of Castle Ward. Set amongst the trees of the estate, Castle Ward Caravan Park and Camp Site is small but perfectly positioned to explore the Ards Penninsula (via the Strangford Lough Ferry), the surrounding Downpatrick and County Down area, and Castle Ward estate itself which is much larger than I ever imagined. One perk of camping on the estate is the possibility to explore it after all the visitors have gone, and that might involve visiting all the Game of Thrones filming locations on the estate without the crowds. After one camping experience I’m hooked and already planning the next one. I loved the freedom, the closeness to nature and beautiful scenery, the sounds at night, waking up in a field to look out across the country… I could

Waking up to sunrise

Pod at Castle Ward. Credit: National Trust Tent packed up and ready to leave

Castle Ward standing stone

A first time camper BY JEFF MEREDITH

go on. It was a revelation and something I want to do more of. And it was all so much easier than I expected.

• Towel • Toiletries • A night light or torch

A beginner’s tips

A fold-up table would’ve been handy to put food on while cooking and if you don’t have a gas hob, a disposable BBQ is useful if you’re allowed one on the site. I brought too much food; but better too much than too little. And don’t forget water. If the midgies normally love you, then bring a spray to keep them at bay.

When you’ve no clue on your first trip there’s a fair amount of guessing so here’s what I brought and what would have been handy to bring. Bearing in mind that I was driving and had space, it might be a whole different story if you don’t have a car.

• Tent • Sleeping bag • Mattress • Pillow • Chair • Something to heat food/water/cook on • Food • Cutlery and utensils • Plates and mugs

For more information on camping visit: DiscoverNorthernIreland.com GocampingNI.com Campsites.co.uk Campingni.com Decathlon.co.uk

Win

A two-night break in The Heritage

 COMPETITION

e are giving you the chance to win a luxurious two-night break in The Heritage, in the rolling green countryside of county Laois. One lucky winner and a guest will stay for two nights with breakfast on each morning and dinner on one evening in The Arlington Restaurant. You and your guest can also enjoy a pampering 30-minute spa treatment each. Now part of FBD Hotels & Resorts, The Heritage has a 7,000 square foot awardwinning spa, where you can while away some time being thoroughly pampered with their two-hour Spa Experience, a sensory journey that maximises the benefits of all the spa facilities leaving the body feeling profoundly alive and invigorated. Relaxed and welcoming, The Heritage has a world-class spa, an extensive selection of luxury accommodation, a wide range of dining options, and a fine array of indoor and outdoor activities. Whether you choose to indulge in a restorative spa treatment in The Heritage

TO ENTER Simply complete the sentence below : The Heritage is located in the rolling green countryside of county…? Email your answer and contact details to: competitions@northernwoman.co.uk before 5pm on Friday 25th October. T&Cs: The prize is subject to availability and is non-transferrable. It is not valid on bank holidays, Christmas, New Year and Easter. INM T&Cs apply. Spa, a game of tennis on the resort’s court, a movie in the cinema, to take some fresh air following the five-kilometre walking and jogging track, or a refreshing visit to the Health Club with its pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and steam rooms; you’ll find there is plenty to do in this lush countryside setting, whatever the weather. Located less than an hour’s drive from Dublin, just off the M7 and close to Kildare Village, Emo Court, the Japanese Gardens and The National Stud, The Heritage is the perfect destination for a romantic break, a fun-filled family getaway, or pampering girls’ night. For more information on The Heritage visit: www.theheritage.com or call +353 (0) 57 8645500.