The Cheshire Magazine - October/November 22

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 s ISSUE 099

Destination

DIN ING Top picks from our Travel Insider

Global Champagne Day Comité Champagne share some fascinating facts to celebrate

Alderley Edge INTRODUCING

Autumn & Winter at Luciano Our new menu harnesses the finest seasonal ingredients, each hand-picked from some of the best producers in Italy and the UK. Simplicity is the key, with Gino and his talented team of chefs letting the simple yet beautiful flavours of each lead every dish.

Be amongst the first to experience it.

Luciano by Gino D’Acampo, London Road, Alderley Edge, SK9 7QD T: 01625 599 995 E: alderley@lucianobyginodacampo.com

LUCIANOBYGINODACAMPO.COM Scan the QR code to go to our website & make a reservation

A Luxury H ealth Club that dares to be di fferent!

Signature swimming pool, hydrotherapy pool and wellness area allows you to relax, recover and rejuvenate in serene yet stylish surroundings – – – – – –

Salt crystal steam room Sauna Infrared sauna On-site cryotherapy chamber -140oC UK’s first beauty light therapy machine Subsidised elite personal training sessions – Unique changing rooms, amenities include towels/beauty products etc.

– APRIL’S Kitchen dedicated members’ private dining – Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy

CYCLO

One of the world’s best skill bike studios with a 10m2 video wall

INFERNO

Home to one of the toughest bootcamp sessions in Cheshire

OXYGEN

Find your sense of balance, peace and purpose

Access All Areas Inclusive Membership available at:

C PAS E . CO. U K 0156 533 2022

INFO@ CPASE.CO.UK

@claresspacecheshire

CPASE

Find us at Mobberley / Knutsford / WA16 7RN

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022 s ISSUE 099 s

Managing Director Kathryn Otto Editor Craig Hough Editorial Team Kevin Evans Toby Taylor Isla Wilson Contributers James Fossdyke Clare Stobart Martine Alexander Phil Aird-Mash Jamie Stephenson Design & Production Kate Woods Picture Editor Kat Hannon Account Manager Charlotte Ducie Brand Ambassadors Keely Barrett Sarah Irlam Charity and Event’s Coordinator Rachel O’Hare

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A Note From...

O

ur 99th issue is an indulgent feast of all things food and drink for you to savour. For our starter, we have freshly prepared an exclusive chat with Edwin Booth, Executive Chairman at Booths (p.12), who discusses his favourite wines, his love for Ribble Valley and his unique collection of hand puppets!

For our mains, we have cooked up a range of tapas-style dishes to enjoy. Our travel insider serves up some destination dining ideas (p.61), we shine a spotlight on the newly revamped Upstairs At The Grill in Chester (p.53) and take a look at the food and drink offerings at The Royal Exchange in Manchester (p.50).

We have an array of sweet treats dotted throughout this issue for dessert. Martine Alexander puts together a selection of outfits for the party season (p.25), Clare Stobart trials the new Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at CPASE (p. 36), Jamie Stephenson enjoys a weekend retreat at a historic manor house (p.69) and our resident petrol head James Fossdyke shares his thoughts on the Toyota GR86 (p.76).

We complement these courses with some fascinating facts linked to “le” Champagne product and “la” Champagne region from Comité Champagne (p.54) in celebration of Global Champagne Day which falls on 28th October.

To celebrate our 100th issue next month, we will be hosting an exciting afternoon of food, drinks and entertainment at Opera Grill in Chester. We would love for you to join us to raise a glass to this wonderful milestone so please email hello@thecheshiremag.co.uk for further information.

DD Clinical Gieves & Hawkes Opera Bar & Grill Piccolino’s Oddfellows Pied Bull The White Horse Powells Jewellery

LIVERPOOL Harvey Nichols Beauty Bazaar David M Robinson

MANCHESTER David M Robinson Gotham Hotel Kimpton Clock Tower Harvey Nichols Hilton Manchester Deansgate King Street Townhouse Mappin & Webb Rosso Restaurant Bar & Grill Watches of Switzerland 20 Stories Oddfellows on the Park

CHESHIRE Carden Park Hotel Mottram Hall Spa Cheshire Oaks Designer Outlet The Mere Cottons Hotel The Colony Wilmslow Luciano Alderley Edge

Havwoods International Knutsford Sofas and Stuff Knutsford

Team Cheshire Magazine

PARTNER

CHESTER 1539 Restaurant

Guncast Pools & Wellness

Happy reading,

PROUD TO

Where to find us...

Cpase Knutsford

cover On the

Glasses of cold pink champagne with lavender flowers Photograph - Dasha Petrenko

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Contents

A FEW OF OUR FAVOURITES

12

43

MY LIFE IN

We talk exclusively to Edwin Booth, Executive Chairman at Booths

54

GLOBAL CHAMPAGNE DAY

61

THE TRAVEL INSIDER

FAMILY

SETTLING IN AT SENIOR SCHOOL

Advice from Withington Girls’ School

FOOD & DRINK

53

Comité Champagne share some fascinating facts in celebration

SPOTLIGHT ON

Upstairs At The Grill in Chester

TRAVEL

A focus on destination dining

STYLE

26

CAUGHT ON CAMERA Pepe Jeans London’s new collection

63

MEET THE HOTELIER

69

ESCAPE TO THE COUNTRY

Andy Nicholson, General Manager at Storrs Hall Hotel

A weekend retreat at Bovey Castle

HEALTH, BEAUTY & WELLNESS

REGULARS

15 20 25

NOTEBOOK

35

ASK THE EXPERT

36

FIND YOUR FIT

How to care for your lips in the colder months

Clare Stobart trials the new Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at CPASE

DRIVE

76

Your guide to the best events in Cheshire and beyond

CHESHIRE LOVES

Dining experiences in the sun

FASHION FORWARD Outfits for the party season

GR8 EXPECTATIONS

Is the new Toyota GR86 the best sports car you can buy?

HOME

83

ALEXANDER THOMAS We meet talented interior designers Glenn Robb and Iain Pritchard

Nominee Conde Conde Nast Nast Johansens Johansens Awards Nominee Awards for for Excellence, Excellence, Hotel Gotham announces a brand new live entertainment Hotel Gotham announces a brand new live entertainment venue. venue.

GILT Club Club coming coming soon.

GILT soon.

The rumours rumours are are true, true, opening opening soon soon inside inside the the former former vaults vaults of The of famous famous 100 100 King King Street, Street, aa new new and and luxury luxury bar bar and events space.

Indulgent and hedonistic, GILT Club is atmospherically reminiscent of the famous 1930s caband events space. Indulgent and hedonistic, GILT Club is atmospherically reminiscent of the famous 1930s cabaret clubs, clubs, with with aa Big Big Band Band style style live live music, music, inspired inspired by by the aret the Gatsby Gatsby era. era. Suitable Suitable for for events events up up to to 80 80 guests. guests.

To reserve your festive event at Gilt Club, please contact events@hotelgotham.co.uk.

To reserve your festive event at Gilt Club, please contact events@hotelgotham.co.uk.

Ring in in the the New New Year Ring Year Eve! Eve!

Take the the main main stage, stage, be be one one of of the the first first to to experience experience new new luxury Take luxury addition addition to to Hotel Hotel Gotham Gotham and and welcome welcome the the New Year, 2023 in a true Gotham style.

Sip on Champagne and kick off your night before enjoying a five-course New Year, 2023 in a true Gotham style. Sip on Champagne and kick off your night before enjoying a five-course dinner in in GILT GILT Club.

Club. Dance Dance ‘til ‘til the the early early hours hours to to aa fourteen-piece fourteen-piece band dinner band and and start start 2023 2023 as as you you mean mean to to go go on. Prices are starting from £375 per person and include: welcome drink, 5 course dinner, live entertainment on. Prices are starting from £375 per person and include: welcome drink, 5 course dinner, live entertainment and accommodation in our Club Rooms with Champagne breakfast. Other room categories available on request. and accommodation in our Club Rooms with Champagne breakfast. Other room categories available on request.

To make your reservation, please contact reservations@hotelgotham.co.uk or call 0161 413 0000.

To make your reservation, please contact reservations@hotelgotham.co.uk or call 0161 413 0000.

Hotel Gotham, 100 King Street, Manchester, M2 4WU Hotel Gotham, www.hotelgotham.co.uk 100 King Street, Manchester, M2 4WU www.hotelgotham.co.uk

My life ...

EDWIN BOOTH, EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN AT BOOTHS

How would you describe yourself ?

A leader and an influencer. In everything, I strive to win. Winning isn’t everything – trying to win is.

Where is home? And work?

Ribble Valley in Lancashire is home and work in Ribbleton Preston What did you want to be when you were younger?

A racing driver or a fighter pilot.

Wheels and wings were and still are a passion.

Name a few of your favourite places to be...

I love mountains, particularly in northern Italy where the food and wines are delicious. There are too many beautiful places to mention here and so many more to discover. My family have introduced me to the Barbados way of life and that is our default destination for a warm sunny holiday.

Naturally, I love anything epicurean and the Ribble Valley is blessed with many excellent places to eat. Every so often I meet for lunch with old wine trade chums at the Edge Hotel and that is always an ethereal occasion as we journey through a selection of great wines.

What or who inspires you?

Gordon Baxter of the Baxters Soup business was a great influence to me when I was young and encouraged me to realise my leadership potential.

Too many people told me what I could not do in my early years and Gordon was a true inspiration. Some years ago I met with the marketer and leadership guru Kevin Roberts who now sits on the Booths company board. I have often told him that he has

“In business, concentrate on scoring the next point before worrying about winning the game” 12

helped me to perform the music in my score and realise the potential of our unique brand. In my personal “Purpose on a Page” I wrote that, “There is no such thing as a dull person” and helping people to find their inner potential is always fulfilling.

What was the last gift you gave someone?

I sent Mrs B some lovely flowers from the new Booths online service to test the system.

It worked – phew! They have lasted a long time so have passed the test.

Tell us a secret/fun fact?

I have a cabinet in the office full of hand puppets. Many of them were rescued as my daughters grew up and discarded them but many are new including “Bonzo” the life-sized terrier! They all have names and have appeared on screen many times during the pandemic.

Who or what would you place in room 101?

Bony Stew. This dreadful concoction was dished out every Monday at my prep school and comprised scrag end of mutton with a half-inch layer of grease floating on top of the gravy. It was rounded off with lumpy mash and boiled beetroot in white sauce.

Yuck!!

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Your mastermind subject?

It has to be cars. Every time there is a period drama on the TV I like to reel off all the car types much to the annoyance and wonderment of my family.

Tour de France route in 2021 to a group who are just about to undertake a walk of 54 miles in one go!

What’s been your biggest life lesson?

In business, concentrate on scoring the next point before worrying about winning the game. That way you win games, take the sets and win matches. Easier said than done! In life as a whole – give love and it will be given to you. The motto on my coat of arms says, “Servite in Laetitia”. Serve with Gladness.

What can customers expect from Booths this Christmas?

Christmas is a very special time for the entire family of Booths colleagues, customers and suppliers. For many years we have published a fine book detailing all the “Best of Booths”. This is eagerly awaited and always includes a selection of new products.

It is also available online but most customers love to take a copy and add it to their collection on the kitchen shelves.

This year, Booths won Wine Supermarket of the Year at The People’s Choice Wine Awards for the third year running – what is your wine of choice when relaxing at home?

Here again and having tasted 1000s of wines during my career it is almost impossible to choose just one wine. However, I love Booths Barolo. It is made by a very competent wine maker and represents great value. If my family are all together we often enjoy a fine claret such as a classified growth St Estephe or St Julien preceded by a fine Chardonnay from the Cotes D’Or in Burgundy. I love the red wines of the Domaine de la Romanee Conti but they have become too expensive to drink.

What will your legacy be?

I hope that my legacy will be one of having encouraged many people to believe in themselves in many walks of life not just in business. I have had the privilege of supporting many organisations outside Booths and as a result of having been the High Sheriff in Lancashire in 2021, I am working with a countrywide team of people forming Employment Advisory Boards in prisons. If we can start by preventing prison leavers from reoffending, then we will be on the right track. There is always something new and useful to do. Life is never dull! www.booths.co.uk

Tell us about the team’s fundraising efforts for Cure Leukaemia.

The Booths teams have undertaken many fundraising activities to raise money for Cure Leukemia from our MD Nigel riding the entire

13

turns

100

TO CELEBRATE THE PUBLICATION OF OUR 100TH ISSUE JOIN US AT

Opera Grill Chester 11th November 2022 12pm - 4pm TICKETS - £40 INCLUDES A 2 COURSE MEAL, LIVE ENTERTAINMENT & A GIFT BAG TO RESERVE YOUR SPACE PLEASE EMAIL HELLO@THECHESHIREMAG.CO.UK OR CALL 01244 794266

thecheshiremagazine.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

NOTEBOOK WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

C h ris risttm as at Carde arden n Pa Parrk

Celebrate Christmas in style with friends, family

or your colleagues at Cheshire’s most luxurious party venue. Carden Park’s dedicated events team will be on-hand to help you plan a bespoke Christmas party event exclusive for your group. Alternatively, for up to 25 people, you can opt to join one of Carden’s hosted party nights that include a delicious seasonal three course dinner, wine, DJ providing live entertainment, plus more set in an incredible festive backdrop. www.cardenpark.co.uk

15

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

8 & 9 NOV

Kingslee Christmas Kingslee Barns, Chester

What’s O n?

The popular charity event returns with a selection of hand-picked stalls, offering beautiful, unique Christmas gifts from Silcocks fine foods to Abi Fisher exclusive fashion pieces. All proceeds from ticket sales, raffle and 10% of sales from the event will go to James’ Place Mental Health Charity. www.jojobradleyinteriors.co.uk

10 - 25 NOV

Chester Literature Festival Storyhouse, Chester

31 OCT - 5 NOV

The Shawshank Redemption The Lowry, Salford Based on the 1982 novella Rita Hayworth and The Shawshank Redemption the play examines desperation, injustice, friendship and hope behind the claustrophobic bars of a maximum-security facility. This production will see Joe Absolom take on the role of the wrongly convicted Andy Dufresne with Ben Onwukwe as his inmate Ellis “Red” Redding. www.thelowry.com

4 - 6 NOV

Manchester Art Fair Manchester Central Manchester Art Fair delivers a curated mix of acclaimed galleries and independent artists, blurring the boundaries between traditional and contemporary, creating a friendly, unpretentious and uniquely Northern art-buying experience. www.manchesterartfair.co.uk 16

Chester’s annual celebration of the written word will fill Storyhouse with two weeks of unmissable events, performances and conversation this autumn. Literary heavy weights Jodi Picoult, Jennifer Finney Boylan, Clare Mackintosh and Patrick Gale are set to discuss their latest books and aspiring writers can enjoy the debut writers panel and flash fiction events. www.storyhouse.com

EVERY WEDNESDAY EVENING

Ancoats Fringe Theatre Party The Firehouse, Manchester The Firehouse in Manchester has launched their new weekly ‘Ancoats Fringe Theatre Party’, taking place every Wednesday. Expect roaming freestyle Balkan musicians, margaritas, spectacular sketches, fearless funnies, brazen burlesque and jovial gymnasts alongside special guest ‘selectas' making midweek something to get excited about. www.firehousemcr.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

The Sno now wQ Qu ueen at Sto St o ryhous ryhousee this C Chr hriistm stma as The bewitching Hans Christian Anderson fairytale comes to the Storyhouse stage from 7 December to 15 January 2023 in an enchanting adaptation by Charles Way

T

he Snow Queen rules her magical kingdom with a heart of ice and a grip as cold as steel.

When shards of an enchanted mirror fly into Cei’s eye, he falls under its spell. He becomes cold-hearted and the Snow Queen steals him away to her far-off land where, with Cei as her helper, she has a chilling plan – to freeze the hearts of all living things and rule supreme over a world of ice and snow.

Only little Gerda, Cei’s childhood friend, believes he can still be rescued, and sets out on a thrilling immersive journey – for Gerda and the audience - through the changing seasons to save Cei and defeat the Snow Queen, meeting a cast of eccentric and memorable characters along the way.

The production will be directed by Hannah Noone (Home, I’m Darling for the National Theatre/Theatr Clwyd, The Elixir of Love at The King’s Head) and will feature a live electric band headed by singer-songwriter Mared Williams (Eponine in Les Miserables, West End) on stage, along with spectacular fight scenes, magical aerial sequences and a guaranteed snowy white Christmas.

Tickets start at just £5 as part of a new range of prices and

special offers from Storyhouse which aim to make sure live theatre remains accessible for Chester audiences during these challenging times.

And the new Storyhouse pricing options include special value dates for homegrown productions, extra member discounts for some performances on top of the usual 10%, and free tickets for nominated groups, schools or individuals in the Chester community.

Storyhouse creative director Suzie Henderson says: “Storyhouse will be transformed into an enchanted winter wonderland this Christmas as we embark on an unmissable adventure into the realm of The Snow Queen.

“I’m delighted we’re now able to reveal the talented cast of actors who are going to take audiences on this magical journey, so wonderfully realised by Charles Way’s adaptation and our brilliant creative team. It’s going to be an unforgettable festive season.” www.storyhouse.com 17

YOURS IF YOU WANT IT

BY LEE EELUS

4/5/6 NOVEMBER

FREE WEEKEND TICKETS

manchesterartfair.co.uk/tickets

Hold-0489 MAF22 Press Chesh Life 210x297.indd 1

MANCHESTER CENTRAL

USE PROMO CODE ‘CHESHIREMAG’

16/09/2022 14:00

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

M an ancc he hess t er

A r t Fai airr 2 0 22 The popular art fair returns this November to deliver a curated mix of acclaimed galleries and independent artists, blurring the boundaries between traditional and contemporary, creating a friendly, unpretentious and uniquely Northern art-buying experience.

T

he fifteenth edition of the event, Manchester Art Fair will open at Manchester Central with a VIP preview on Friday 4th November with complimentary drinks and a DJ set by one of Manchester’s favourite artists Stanley Chow. It will open to the public on Saturday 5th and Sunday 6th November with over 8,000 people anticipated to attend.

Speaking on the event, Manchester Art Fair Director, Sophie Helm, said: “Since we launched in 2008 we have welcomed over 85,000 art lovers who have spent over £5m on art through Manchester Art Fair.

2022 will be our most ambitious edition to date with 120 exhibiting artists and galleries, and an expanded visitor programme of free workshops and intimate artist talks as well as exclusive limited edition print releases from world renowned artists.”

Providing a further unique and engaging platform for art and culture

enthusiasts renowned Manchester artists Stanley Chow and Ghislaine Howard will be talking about how they became artists, developed their style and practice and have then gone on to achieve international success.

With more artists at the Fair than ever before, appearing for the first time this year is Lexi Laine, renowned for working in the medium of photography and trained in the art of freediving in order to achieve her ethereal underwater artwork, and Ben Baker who uses iron wire to transform his fluid single line drawings into a tangible version. Bringing his drawings to life often using mechanisms to involve the viewer.

Featuring alongside new exhibitors are some of the region’s most respected galleries including Saul Hay Gallery and MASA_UK Art Gallery.

Established in Manchester in 2016, Saul Hay Gallery works with emerging and established artists to present a diverse programme of contemporary and modern painting, drawing, sculpture, ceramics, and photography. It is one of the foremost contemporary art galleries in the region and celebrates the very best of contemporary art from Manchester and beyond.

Bury based MASA-UK Art Gallery is a small, family-owned, independent business that specialises in showing and encouraging investment in original artwork.

Also returning in November is The Manchester Contemporary, a collegiate fair for young galleries, artist-led spaces, charitable organisations and partner

institutions providing a critically engaged environment for artistic exploration and development. Supported and funded by the National Lottery through Arts Council England, The Manchester Contemporary is one of the most anticipated features of the event, showcasing evocative and thought-inspiring work.

Manchester Art Fair makes viewing and buying quality art accessible and enjoyable. Get swept up in the creativity, passion and vibrancy of Manchester Art Fair on 4-6 November at Manchester Central.

Book tickets: www.manchesterartfair.co.uk/tickets

• Over 120 exhibiting artists and galleries • New for 2022 – One to one Artist talks featuring with Stanley Chow and Ghislaine Howard • New for 2022 – Exclusive limited-edition prints from Manchester’s most famous artists (to be revealed in due course) • New for 2022 – More artists from across the UK including Lexi Laine and Ben Baker • Over 8,000 art lovers expected to attend

19

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

C hes hesh h ire lo l o ves...

Dining Experiences in the Sun

3

La Brezza at Hotel Eden Roc Ascona, Switzerland

1

Michelin Star Le Monzù Restaurant at Punta Tragara, Capri

The restaurant has unrivalled views of the famous Faraglioni rocks and the Tyrrhenian Sea. Why did they call it “Monzù”? Because the chefs of aristocratic Neapolitan families were once given the French title “Monsieur”.

The name “Monzù” is a deformation of the French “Monsieur” which is how they named the chefs who worked in the courts of leading Neapolitan aristocratic families between the 13th and 19th century. Chef Luigi Lionetti is a Caprese himself. The menu offers traditional Capri favourites and Neapolitan dishes. www.manfredihotels.com

2

Amare at Verdura Resort, Sicily

Located on the beachfront with a lively cooking station, Amare serves the finest local fresh fish and seafood. Sample the restaurant’s specialty, ‘crudo’, served for generations in Sicilian fishing villages.

Thinly sliced catch of the day with extra virgin olive oil, citrus fruits and a pinch of rock salt.

Busiate with shrimps and pistachio. www.roccofortehotels.com

20

The Restaurant La Brezza with its Michelin star and 17 GaultMillau Points offers sophisticated gourmet cuisine. GaultMillau crowned 30-year-old chef Marco Campanella Discovery of the Year 2019 in Ticino, and the Michelin Guide rewarded his work with his first star. La Brezza means summer breeze in Italian – and this is what they want to incorporate into their dishes and their light, crisp cooking style. They use local products wherever possible and are inspired by the surroundings of Ticino. www.tschuggenhotelgroup.ch

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Inspired by the vine’s ability to thrive against the odds, this collection represents unbreakable inner strength and determination to succeed. Wearing these pieces will help you to face life’s challenges with curiosity and courage, allowing them to be embraced and overcome.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

Fash ashiion Forw orwa a rd w ith M a r t i ne A lexa nder

It’s time! It’s officially OK to get the sequins and sparkle out! This month, I thought I would pick some of my festive favourites and show you how I’d style them – I would love to know which is your favourite…

I love David Koma, a lot. I love everything they produce and this dress, with the thigh-length embellished split just makes my heart sing. It’s such a classic dress but it will make heads turn when you walk into the room. Accessories are accents in this look – the Roger Vivier bag and the Soru silver earrings are classics. My curveball, however, was to add a more ‘on trend’ Saint Laurent platform instead of a classic sandal – just to keep people guessing.

This Georgia Hardinge dress is a total showstopper. The ruched detailing adds an exuberant air of drama, whilst also adding a style ‘tick’ of masking a problem area of a mum-tum (bonus!).

Again, I decided not to follow the norm of styling with black accessories and stayed with the gold hues with these Rene Caovilla heels and a fabulous Judith Leiber clutch.

David Koma at Net a Porter; Soru Jewellery ; Roger Vivier at Net a Porter; Saint Laurent at Net a Porter

Georgia Hardinge; Judith Leiber at Net a Porter; Rene Caovilla at Net a Porter

I’m all about versatility and think this De La Vali dress is an ‘all rounder’ – perfect for the Christmas parties with the feather detail, but also perfect for a christening or a spring wedding. I chose to mix the styling up from the expected silver and mix in this season’s favourite trend – pearls – with these simplistic earrings from Sophie Bille Brahe and the statement Simone Rocha bag.

De La Vali at Coggles; Sophie Bille Brahe; Simone Rocha; Alaia at Net a Porter

Rixo are renowned for producing vintage inspired collections, so I chose this dress as it felt was ‘off piste’ for them, and I love it. Styling is young, fun and flirty. I mean, I couldn’t leave out the infamous shoe of the season could I – The Versace pink platform pump? It’s a perfect addition to the dress and teamed with this The Attico bag, it’s a match made in heaven.

The Attico at Net a Porter ; Versace at Net a Porter ;

What I’ve Been up to…

This month has been a blur. I’ve been up and down the country editing client’s closets for autumn, sourcing this season’s must-have pieces and styling several celebrities for the National Television Awards, film premieres and TV appearances.

Rixo at Coggles;

25

Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

caug h t o n

CA M ER A P

epe Jeans London has launched its menswear campaign and fourth chapter of its collaboration with the British young icon Brooklyn Peltz Beckham. Also launching under the same “Caught on Camera” concept is the new AW22 Womenswear campaign starring two London-born rising stars actress Daisy Jelley and model content creator and business owner Sarah Lysander.

The Autumn-Winter 2022 campaign “Caught On Camera” was shot in the library of one the oldest hotels in London with our ambassadors imagining what they would do if they could sneak into the historic building unnoticed and run riot then escape back into the streets of London.

Through images shot by talented “new-gen” fashion photographer Josh Olins and video directed by Isabella Di Stefano who also co-envisioned the campaign concept the AW22 Pepe Jeans collection embodies timeless British style. Inspired by the eclectic roots and preppy style of the brand the collection encourages generations to play with old-school collegiate styles and denim to create fresh unique looks that nod to traditional varsity-inspired fashion.

Brooklyn Peltz Beckham models a sports varsity-style letter P jumper with jeans and modern boots. Daisy and Sarah show off their casual college style. Daisy in high-waist pleated trousers modern ankle boots and a quilted bomber jacket emblazoned with the Pepe Jeans “P” while Sarah wears a checked wool coat over a blue and grey mini dress with black loafers.

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

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Style | The CHESHIRE Magazine

www.pepejeans.com

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Style

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Health, Beauty

Wellness

25 Days Ha Have Nev Never Looke ooked d So Good...

Get set to count down 25 beauty-full days with the much-anticipated arrival of the first Harvey Nichols Beauty Advent Calendar. Open the 25 drawers and enjoy 12 full sized products among the 34 items to be discovered and, for that little bit of extra pampering, treatment vouchers from some of their hero beauty services. Expect to find cult classics such as Maison Francis Kurkdjian, La Mer, La Prairie, and Fenty Beauty. www.harveynichols.com

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NEW FROM OLVERUM After years of development, Botanical wellbeing and beauty experts OLVERUM have launched a new range of hand and body cleanding products, meticulously formulated to respect the skin barrier. The Body Cleanser has been created specifically for dry or dehydrated skin whilst the Purifying Hand Wash and Soothing Hand Lotion keep hard-working hands cleansed, comfortable, protected and hydrated, without compromising indulgence and experience. www.uk.olverum.com

Health &

Beauty Trinny London loves Miracle Blur Smooth fine lines, pores and acne scars with Miracle Blur, our little pot of wonder. Not just a miracle by name, the creamy, colourless formula blends effortlessly into the skin for a seamless base.

Lip2Cheek This is Trinny London’s bestselling, multitasking lip and cheek hero that brings your entire complexion to life. www.trinnylondon.com

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Pat McGrath Labs Takeover The Mothership has landed in the heart of the beauty hall in FLANNELS Liverpool where customers will be transported into the Pat McGrath Labs universe and can experience the brands extraordinary vision and artistry and indulge in its newest innovations and collections in-person. And, from the 20th – 23rd October, the beauty hall will be transformed into the Pat McGrath Labs takeover including masterclasses and 1-2-1 appointments with exclusive access to beauty experts. www.patmcgrath.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Health & Beauty

ASK THE EXPERT Joy Howieson, Founder & CEO of Project Lip on how to care for your lips in the colder months The skin on your lips is much thinner than the rest of your body, and as the weather changes, it’s easy to forget that our lips are exposed to the elements with very little natural protection from the cold and wind.

The days are darker and the temperature has dropped, which means it’s time to make room for cosy jumpers and a cup of hot chocolate. As an MUA, I know at this time of year most of us will want to reach for those pillar box reds, burgundy and chocolate lipstick shades. Enter: your new and improved lip care routine for the colder months ahead.

EXFOLIATE YOUR LIPS A lip scrub will gently buff away the build-up of dead skin cells from dry and chapped lips, helping to restore your lips to a more hydrated state.

When exfoliating correctly, this also increases the circulation in your lips, making your lips plumper.

TOP TIP: Remember, it’s important not to overdo it, look at exfoliating once a week.

USE A BALM TO KEEP DRY LIPS AT BAY Cold, dry winds aren't great for your lips and can cause them to become chapped. Try to avoid dry lips by using balms infused with a host of nourishing and replenishing ingredients, such as Vitamin E, as this will restore vital moisture. The main aim is to seal in moisture, so reapplying a balm throughout the day and before bed is important.

Balms don't have to be boring or made from bee’s wax, opt for a pop of colour with Project Lip’s Hydra Matte Plumping Balm. This hydrating, vegan lip balm stimulates blood flow to increase lip size and shape while also restoring cracked and chapped lips by locking in that lightweight buttery feeling.

TOP TIP: Even during the cold winter months, the sun can still burn and dry out your lips, so ensure your balm contains SPF. BOOST COLLAGEN Collagen is naturally occurring and keeps your skin firm, smooth, and full of volume - but unfortunately, as we age the rate at which you produce collagen plummets. Look to use lip products that contain collagen-boosting and nurturing ingredients that will keep your lips saturated, smooth and visibly plumper.

REMEMBER, WEEKLY MASKS ARE NOT JUST FOR YOUR FACE If you’re struggling with sore lips that don’t seem to heal no matter what, then look at using an intensive lip treatment such as a lip mask - they’re full of vitamin-rich and moisture-locking ingredients that work to nourish and restore and condition the lips. Missing some moisture? Try Project Lip’s hydro-gel lip mask, leaving you with a revitalised smooth pout.

Project Lip - Scrub | RRP £8.95 Project Lip - Mask | RRP: £3.95 Project Lip - Matte Lip Plumping Primer I RRP £12.95 www.projectlip.com

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F I N D YO U R F I T w it h C l a r e S tob toba ar t This month I share my 1 month experience trialling the new Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at CPASE Supercharge Your Health and Wellbeing As homo-sapiens, we need oxygen to survive, as do most living things. Oxygen, in its simplest form, helps organisms grow, reproduce and convert food into energy. It makes up approximately 65% of the human body and acts as an energy source for our cells. As you know, we get our oxygen through breathing. The air we breathe is approximately 21% oxygen.

If you think of the vital part oxygen plays in our lives, that figure is seemingly low. Within the medical and fitness industry, decades of research have taken place to find a way for us to be able to breathe in more O2 and less nitrogen, which makes up for more than 70% of what we breathe in each and every day.

Many factors such as stress, lifestyle and medical conditions can inhibit our body’s ability to utilise the oxygen we intake efficiently.

With a lifelong invested interest in fitness, health and wellbeing, I have visited conventions all over the world. A few years ago, at Elevate Fitness Convention in London, I learnt about Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy or HBOT for short. It is widely used within the medical field and has recently been cleared by the FDA in America for multiple uses, including wound healing, assisting in curing soft tissue infections, carbon monoxide poisoning, burns and post-surgical incisions.

By definition, Hyperbaric Oxygen is oxygen that is given at a pressure that is higher than the pressure of the atmosphere at sea level. It is well known for its use to treat scuba and deep-sea divers affected by the rapid change in pressure around them.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT) involves sitting in an air-compressed 36

chamber and breathing through an oxygen mask throughout the hour-long session. The compressed environment created by the chamber enables your lungs to absorb much more oxygen whilst breathing.

This increase in pressure allows more oxygen to be dissolved into the plasma of the blood. Essentially, you are breathing close to 100% pure oxygen, which up-regulates the body’s recovery and regeneration processes. The wellbeing and anti-ageing effects of absorbing such an incredible amount of oxygen are second to none, so in the name of research, I began looking into this a little further to see if it lives up to the “hype”.

My 1 Month Trial Experiencing Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy at CPASE HBOT is a truly unique experience, affording you huge health benefits all while simply relaxing and watching TV. You leave your phone and devices at the door to give you the opportunity to truly relax and switch off from the outside world for an hour. I have been using the chamber for the past month, up to 5 sessions per week to really see and feel the benefits.

It is recommended to wear comfortable clothing, ideally cotton material. The chamber is temperature controlled so you will feel comfortable at all times.

As you enter the chamber, breathing with the oxygen mask on can take some time to get used to, but after a few sessions it does begin to feel more natural and comfortable.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Wellness

As the hyperbaric oxygen chamber compresses, your ears may begin to pop, for me, this was usually within the first 10 minutes. This is perfectly normal and due to the change in pressure. As the chamber begins to decompress, you have the same sensation, which I found was around 15 minutes before the session was due to end. It is similar to the sensation you get whilst flying and has no side effects.

Throughout the sessions, I feel very relaxed and almost sleepy plus the time passes quickly when you are able to watch your favourite series on Netflix!

Over the last month, using HBOT has certainly helped me to feel more alert, less stressed and more energetic. Even after a full day’s work I have felt really motivated to train and I also achieved my personal best on deadlifts this week, so I have been very pleased with my progress in the gym too.

My skin is glowing and I feel like I don’t need to put make-up on, which ordinarily I wear most days.

I am also sleeping much better at night. Overall, the increase in my wellbeing and physical health has been exponential and that is why we have decided to invest in a HBOT at CPASE.

Benefits Breathing in a surplus of oxygen over time stimulates angiogenesis, which is new blood vessel formation within your body tissue. Not only does Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy build and repair damaged blood vessels, but it also triggers collagen growth, leading to increased healing. Research has also shown that there are amazing anti-ageing benefits with regular HBOT use.

As we all strive to live as healthy as possible, the chamber is certainly a great choice to elevate your wellbeing and boost your immunity. Numerous elite athletes and celebrities are already huge fans

of the therapy such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Michael Phelps and supermodel Kendall Jenner.

Now that I have experienced the chamber for myself, I can understand why these incredible athletes are rotating Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy into their training programmes.

Using HBOT Generally, sessions are recommended blocks of 10, 20 or 40 which are tailored to the individual depending on your goal. It’s important to take into consideration whether you want to give your body a quick health and vitality boost, hit your personal best in the gym or even help combat major health challenges or aid in slowing the progression of degenerative diseases.

Research shows that most improvement is seen in the 4 to 6 weeks after Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy sessions. This is because there are still physiological benefits taking place as your body goes into rest repair mode. The experience and results are really impressive and it is certainly a therapy that I would recommend trying.

We have opened our chamber at CPASE Health Club to both members and non-members, which can be booked using our website or app. By opening up the treatment to all, we hope it can be of benefit to as many people as possible.

My experience of HBOT has been overwhelmingly positive, and it is something I will continue to do going forward, I hope to see you there too!

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Family Aut utu umn R ea ead dy Keep your little one warm

this season with this quilted effect down jacket from Colmar. The boy’s jacket comes with a fixed hood and is made of stretch fabric with water repellent treatment. Pleasant to the touch, with a comfortable fitting, this model, thanks to the special construction of the fabric, does not require seams for the insertion of the feather. To underline its uniqueness, the elastic ribbon in contrasting colour gives it a sporty and gritty look. www.colmar.com

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Design For Better Living with Crane

Family news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

Bringing yet another innovation to the UK, trusted retailer Cheeky Rascals has unveiled the brand-new Crane Drop 2.0 4-in-1 Humidifier with Sound Machine.

Set to revolutionise the home environment, the thoughtfully designed humidifier safely releases moisture into the air, promising to bring wellness, and much more, to the entire family.

Super stylish and easy to clean, the whisper quiet 4-in-1 humidifier features an ultrasonic cooling mist, 3 soothing sounds, an aroma tray to enhance relaxation and an optional nightlight.

RRP £110.00, www.cheekyrascals.co.uk

Carré Douceur Hops into Nurseries Experts in the most charming soft toys, Kaloo has launched the perfect keepsake gift for any new arrival, birthday, or special occasion, introducing the truly adorable Carré Douceur soft comforters. Made of recycled materials and stuffing from plastic bottles that would otherwise lie in landfill, the super cute comforters are 100% eco-friendly.

Available in 6 totally loveable designs and colours, each one comes in a thoughtful gift box making it a very special sustainable surprise!

From £14.99, www.toystreet.co.uk

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Hide and Sing with Ladybird Popular children’s publisher Ladybird is thrilled to welcome two new titles to its much-loved Baby Touch Collection: Nursery Rhymes and Hide and Seek. Featuring sensory surprises on each page, the colourful new books are sure to inspire little learners, as they sing along or discover something new on each page.

Nursery Rhymes introduces little ones to their first (and soon-to-be favourite!) sing-along songs, whilst Hide and Seek, gives curious little readers a chance to explore characters and objects on each page, discovering what is hidden behind the fold out flaps.

The Baby Touch collection supports sensory development and boosts motor skills whilst looking great on any nursery bookshelf. £7.99, www.penguin.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

THAT FUZZY FEELING Introducing the irresistibly huggable Nuno Fuzzy - the super soft toy with purpose, and his unique collection of books, specially created to inspire little ones and introduce them to important life values in a fun and friendly way.

Nuno is the cuddliest companion and so much more. He is also the main character in a series of fun-filled rhyming books, where he learns about life’s most important values.

Thoughtfully written and illustrated with the help of incredible authors and teachers, in the books Nuno becomes the ultimate role model as he explores friendship and acceptance of others, through his first two adventures.

RRP The Nuno Fuzzy: £29.99, The Nuno Starter Set: £47.99, The Nuno Big Set £64.99 www.fuzzystars.co

Doctor, Doctor!

Little one’s hours of imaginative play, the adorable new Lilliputiens Little Doctor Alice Bag includes all the essentials for medics of the future to take care of the adorable Alice Fox, who, unfortunately, isn’t feeling too well!

The super soft doctor’s bag (which cleverly also serves as a sick bed) features everything needed to take care of Alice, ranging from bandages, a thermometer and even a stethoscope. Promising hours of role play games and inspired playtime, the doctor’s set is sure to be loved by little ones for years to come.

RRP £41.99, www.johnlewis.com

MY FIRST SMYTHSON Smythson launches their first ever children’s diary, entitled ‘My First Smythson,’ inspired by National Literacy Trust research that suggests children who write regularly feel happier and more creative.

Since 1887, the blue Featherweight pages of Smythson diaries have been a personal accompaniment to the storied lives of individuals. Aimed at 8–11-year-olds, My First Smythson seeks to inspire a new generation of story-makers, encouraging positive and motivational associations with writing from a young age. Crafted from supple Panama leather in bright tangerine, with a burst of rainbow ribbon details, it is a thoughtful gift that will form a cherished time capsule.

RRP £175, www.smythson.com 41

W H O LE S C H O O

L

OPEN EVNOEVNEMTBSER

THURSDAY 3 V EM BER O N 5 Y A D R U T SA If you wish to attend these events or be kept up to date on other opportunities to learn more about a Withington education please call 0161 249 3371 or email admissions@wgs.org

Northwest Independent Secondary School of the Decade The Sunday Times Means-tested bursaries available at key entry points from Year 5.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Settl i ng in a t Settli S eni enio o r Sc S c hoo hooll The transition from junior school to senior school is an exciting yet potentially testing time for children – new teachers, new subjects, new friends and navigating their way around a much bigger school site are among the opportunities and challenges Year 7s are likely to encounter

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very school has a programme to help smooth the way and, at Withington, this starts at the end of June with an Induction Day, where new pupils find out which form and house they will be in, who their form tutors are and begin to find their way around the school.

Head of Year 7, Mrs Julia Johnston, explains that Withington’s Year 7 group is made up of pupils from Withington’s Junior School, who make up around half of the cohort, and pupils from a wide range of both maintained primary and independent prep schools – over 25 different schools in 2022. “Our priority is to bring these girls together and to make sure they all get their senior school career off to a positive start,” she says.

The first three days of the new academic year are devoted to helping the pupils settle in. Day one is focused on

finding their way around the school, getting to know others in the form, learning about the timings of the school day and, important to new Year 7s, sampling the delights of the snacks and meals on offer at breaks and lunch time.

Many new Year 7s sign up for music lessons and day two sees an immersive musical experience with Let’s Make Music Day. “Wearing their new House t-shirts, every pupil has the opportunity to play instruments with which they may be familiar as well as try out new ones. The day culminates in a show featuring the pupils demonstrating their musical skills, some only learnt that day.”

Day three aims to give the Year 7s a strong start to their academic life at Withington with a focus on study skills.

“We show the girls techniques to help them be organised in their approach to lessons and homework, how to take notes in lessons, an introduction to the library and using our learning platform, OneNote, and other online resources.

There’s also a session teaching them how to draw on the important wellbeing technique of mindfulness,” says Mrs Johnston.

The culmination of the induction phase is a residential at Ghyll Head Activity Centre in the Lake District. Here the Year 7s, already starting to forge new friendships and getting involved in a wide range of clubs and activities at school, have the opportunity to expand those

relationships with their peers through collaboration and teamwork across activities such as kayaking, rock climbing, zip wiring and an adventure trail. “It’s wonderful to watch the bonds between the girls strengthen as they encourage and support one another throughout each activity, and there’s lots of laughter and fun along the way. Year 13 peer supporters accompany the trip, an aspect much appreciated by the Year 7s, and they return to school buoyed with confidence and fully prepared to take on their first year of senior school.”

Open Days for entry to Withington Girls’ School will be held on Thursday 3rd November and Saturday 5th November – see www.wgs.org for more details on 2023 Admissions.

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Life-Saving RESEARCH DETECTING PANCREATIC CANCER EARLIER WITH THE HELP OF GIFTS IN WILLS

T

hanks to research, more people than ever are surviving their cancer. In the 1970s, just 1 in 4 people in the UK survived cancer for 10 years or more. Today, that figure has doubled.

But, we have so much more to do. We need to go further, and faster.

In the North West, around 43,600 people are diagnosed with cancer every year* and sadly, around 19,400 of them do not survive their diagnosis**.

We urgently need to advance research to improve survival for people with cancer. Together, we can support ground-breaking science that will help to save and improve lives for generations to come.

Our pioneering work across the UK, including in the North West, benefits from the generosity of supporters leaving a gift to Cancer Research UK in their Will. In fact, legacy gifts fund a third of our research.

Cancer Research UK funds a world-leading network of centres and institutes, driving our understanding of cancer biology and developing new ways to prevent, diagnose and treat the disease. It is thanks to our incredible supporters that we consistently provide world-class leadership in cancer research.

In the North West, our researchers at the Cancer Research UK Manchester Institute, Manchester Centre and the Manchester and Liverpool Experimental Cancer Medicine Centres (ECMCs) are determined

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to make a difference for people with cancer in this region and beyond.

Our Manchester Institute is home to the world’s top researchers, who are working to accelerate our understanding of how and why cancer develops and progresses, with the goal of combining this knowledge with pioneering technology to improve survival for people with cancer.

The Cancer Research UK Manchester Centre is a world-leading centre dedicated to taking lab-based discoveries into the clinic. By bringing together scientists and clinicians, the Centre aims to improve survival for people with cancer through their pioneering research.

Our Liverpool and Manchester ECMCs, jointly supported by us and the National Institute for Health Research, bring together lab scientists and cancer doctors from local NHS trusts and universities with the united goal of speeding up the flow of ideas and new treatments from the lab to the clinic. By bringing together experts, these research hubs are accelerating the translation of cutting-edge discoveries from the lab into direct benefits for people with cancer.

Our research is revolutionising what we know about cancer and how we can beat it. Every year, more than 125,000 people with cancer in the UK are treated with drugs linked to our scientists’ research – that’s 3 in 4 people who receive cancer drugs on the NHS. That’s

just one of the ways that our supporters and scientists are helping make a difference for people with cancer.

Yet, despite all this progress, there are some forms of cancer where survival has improved very little and have limited treatment options.

Pancreatic cancer is one of these hard-to-treat cancers.

Unfortunately, this disease often shows little or no symptoms until it’s at an advanced stage, when treatment is less likely to be successful. We urgently need to find ways to detect pancreatic cancer earlier.

Professor Eithne Costello is developing a test to use with people who have been newly diagnosed with diabetes to identify those most at risk of developing pancreatic cancer. The importance of developing this test is described by Professor Costello:

high-risk individuals. Since catching cancer early is key to improving survival, the team’s findings could save lives.

Professor Costello’s work wouldn’t be possible without the help of our incredible supporters. These donations, including gifts in Wills, make a real difference to the future of cancer research.

“Gifts left in Wills to Cancer Research UK are absolutely essential to what I do. They make it possible for my research team to explore ways to detect cancer earlier and improve treatments,” she said.

Support us to fund pioneering researchers like Professor Costello and make cancer a thing of the past.

Together we will beat cancer.

To get your free Gifts in Wills Guide, visit cruk.org/pledgenorthwest *Based on the average annual number of new cases of cancer excl. NSMC (ICD10 C00-C97 excl. C44) diagnosed in the North West of England between 2017 and 2019.

“Detecting cancer earlier can make an enormous difference to a person’s chances of surviving their disease for longer. Pancreatic cancer is almost always diagnosed when at an advanced stage. Our research, aimed at earlier detection of this disease, is vitally important and aims to change that.”

**Based on the average annual number of deaths from cancer (ICD10 C00-C97) in the North West of England between 2017 and 2019.

Professor Costello’s research has the potential to change clinical practice and could lead to a targeted pancreatic cancer screening programme for these 45

NOW OPEN

Food Drink An Ex Extra trav vagant Fusio sion n of Ea East Meets West

High-end contemporary Chinese restaurant Tattu has revealed its all-new autumn winter menu, specially curated to take diners on an experiential journey from East to West. Standouts include Black Pepper and Honey Ribs, Red Pepper Lamb Cutlet and boasting a melting pot of flavours, the Japanese Black Wagyu Sirloin served with green beans and truffle sesame soy. www.tattu.co.uk

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NEW MENUS Ducie Street Warehouse Ducie Street Warehouse has announced a seasonal shift for its social dining menu, featuring innovative new dishes from the farm, the sea and the allotment.

Designed by Head Chef Andrew Green, some of the new menu highlights include Local Game with red wine and herb sausages, caramelised sweet potato and onion gravy; King Prawn and Queen Scallops with chilli and garlic, parsley; Seared Sea Bass Fillet with stem broccoli, tomato and chilli salsa and Chargrilled Hispi Cabbage with shallot and caper salsa. www.duciestreet.com

Mount Street Dining Room & Bar

Food & Drink news WORDS: CRAIG HOUGH

BOXPARK IS COMING TO LIVERPOOL Award-winning dining, retail and leisure operator BOXPARK is to open a brand-new venue in Liverpool, making the group’s first BOXPARK-branded development outside of London.

Located in the historic Canning Hall as part of the Cains Brewery Village estate, in the city’s booming Baltic Triangle, BOXPARK Liverpool will be a brand-new all-day dining and entertainment venue.

Scheduled to launch in late 2023, the venue will be an exciting and vibrant addition to Liverpool’s buzzing food and drink scene whilst offering a unique programme of entertainment.

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Mount Street Dining Room & Bar has launched its new menu, which is bursting at the seams with seasonal flavours and beautifully cooked British produce.

New starters include Jerusalem Artichoke Soup with nettle pesto and truffle scented croutons, new mains include Butternut Wellington, Roast Cannon of Yorkshire Lamb and Roast Fillet of Cod, while new to the dessert menu is Raspberry Trifle, Custard Tart and Gooseberry and Elder Eton Mess.

Each Sunday Mount Street also serves a selection of whole traditional roasts selected by the butcher. www.themidlandhotel.co.uk

CHESHIRE LOVES The new Microplane BLACK SHEEP Series, with matt black stainless steel handle, frame and blade, is an eye-catching, elegant showstopper.

There are five blade styles for specific, superior, grating and slicing results. The iconic, long, narrow Zester for all citrus fruits and parmesan. The paddleshaped graters which include Fine for grating aromatics and spices, Coarse for larger texture grating e.g. hard cheese, Extra Coarse for root vegetables and Ribbon blade for chocolate decorative finishes.

RRP £49.95 per blade, www.boroughkitchen.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

MEET THE CHEF:

MARCEL

R AV I N

Executive Chef at Blue Bay Restaurant in Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort What’s your first food related memory?

When my grandmother cooked for her children and grandchildren in Martinique. In particular, the chicken scorch, chicken fricassee caramelised with cane sugar.

When did you know you wanted to be a chef?

At the age of 14/15, when I cooked with my grandmother, she passed on her passion for cooking.

Where were you trained, and how did you find your training?

I did my apprenticeship in the West Indies then I left for France to work in a Relais et Châteaux in Alsace.

What do you love most about your job?

The respect of the commitment, the promise that we make to a client.

Describe your style in three words.

Avant-garde, creative and audacious.

Where do you draw your creative inspiration from?

What surrounds me, my gardens and my encounters with artisans.

Touching and seeing the product is what allows me to create and to imagine.

What four ingredients are necessary in your kitchen?

Vegetable broth, olive oil, lemon, spices.

What are you most proud of in your career?

To have put together a solid team that allows me to reinvent myself every day.

What would you want to have as your last meal?

The fish court bouillon that my father used to make.

Are there any foods you just don’t like?

Game.

What do you think is the most challenging ingredient to work with?

Eggs.

What advice would you offer to an aspiring chef?

Go after your dream and commit yourself fully. www.montecarlosbm.com

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Promotion | The CHESHIRE Magazine

The Royal Exchange Manchester Within one of Manchester’s most iconic buildings, you’ll find some of the world’s favourite brands, chic independent stores and luxury retailers mixed with an array of top tier food and drink venues

H E A LT H & B E AU T Y The Butchers Chop Shop The Butchers Chop Shop opened in The Royal Exchange Arcade just after lockdown and it quickly earned itself a reputation of being the coolest barbers in town, with its neon pink pig sign and butchers-style surroundings. The team behind it are a friendly bunch, ready to welcome you with a trim and a chat. However, it’s not just for men; The Butchers Chop Shop is inclusive of women with short hair and gender neutral people Instagram: thebutcherschopshop

Treat Yourself or a Loved One

Razors Edge Razors Edge salon is one of the longest standing shops in the Arcade and has been providing the best cuts, colours and styling since 1970. The salon has enjoyed success in its field for over 50 years, being a popular choice for many people who want to ensure their hair is in good hands. Its dynamic and creative team keep abreast of the everchanging styles and trends to keep at the forefront of fashion for both women and men.

Razors Edge has recently launched JR SKIN, a new skin venture within the salon. The new team of skin specialists can now offer you beautiful skin with bespoke result driven treatments. You can now get your perfect skin as well as your perfect hair in one place! www.therazorsedge.co.uk 50

And if you’re looking to purchase some fabulous beauty gifts, or are perhaps wanting to treat yourself, The Royal Exchange is also home to some of the finest beauty brands around including; • L’Occitane • Molton Brown • Lush • The Body Shop

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

FOOD & DRINK Pastan Following its success in London, vegan pasta brand Pastan has just opened its very first Manchester restaurant at The Royal Exchange. Pastan serves various handmade pasta dishes and delicacies, made with premium ingredients cooked in full view of diners. Their fully vegan menu features favourites such as Dolce Vita (vegan carbonara), Green Velvet (pea and shallot ravioli dressed in salsa verde), and Catalonia (charcoal-activated tagliolini pasta made in a rich tomato sauce, spiced with apricot harissa and rosemary) plus mini biscoff doughnuts. www.pastan.co.uk

Annies If comfort food in cosy surroundings is what you’re looking for, Annies is undoubtedly the place for you.

Owned by husband & wife team Chris Farr and Jennie McAlpine – aka Fiz from Coronation Street – Annies is renowned for its delicious Afternoon Teas and sumptuous Sunday Roasts, amongst many other culinary delights.

And it’s not just food; Annies cosy seating along one side of its impressive, well-stocked bar, provides the perfect setting to relax over a cocktail or glass of wine or two. www.anniesmanchester.co.uk

Michaels Coffeehouse If you’re a coffee-lover, then Michaels coffeehouse is a must to visit when you’re in the city centre. Michaels Coffee House offers a range of high quality hand crafted coffees, homemade cakes, homely soups, and toasties made fresh in store daily – all served with a heavy focus on customer service from a team of friendly baristas!

Their range of pastries, homemade cakes and speciality coffee makes for a great spot to hang out where everyone can find something delightful to enjoy. Look out for their festive drinks range too, they’ll be sure to get you in the festive mood. www.michaelscoffeehouse.com

The Remedy Kitchen

An award-winning, Health-Food Restaurant and Meal Prep Service with a small but mighty team of 15. The Remedy Kitchen, located in the Royal Exchange Arcade, produces health-focused, seasonal, and beautifully presented dishes, that are all naturally free from gluten, dairy, wheat and refined sugars, championing dietary preferences and conscious, intuitive eating. www.theremedykitchen.co.uk

Fridays Come and get that Fridays feeling when you’re in Manchester City Centre, with Fridays at The Royal Exchange – from iconic cocktails and craft beers to their famous appetizers and delicious Fridays burgers, freshly made to order with quality ingredients. Fridays is perfect to enjoy with family and friends for all occasions. www.tgifridays.co.uk

theroyalexchangemanchester.com Facebook & Instagram: @royalexchangemanchester Twitter: @TheRoyalExMcr

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Cheshire’s Cheshire’s Cheshire’s Cheshire’s Finest Dining Finest Dining Finest Finest Dining Dining

View View View View Autumn Autumn Autumn Autumn Menu Menu Menu Menu

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Food & Drink

SPOTLIGHT ON... UPSTAIRS AT THE GRILL IN CHESTER

Best for...

The finest steaks and unique cocktail creations

U

pstairs At The Grill has returned to the Chester dining scene– with a whole new look and some very exciting additions. The team behind the restaurant and cocktail bar that was first established in 2002 have been planning these changes for the last 2 years. Their plans included extending the building enabling them to welcome more guests and re-imagining the hugely popular, split level, Manhattan inspired restaurant. Elements of the old restaurant have been carefully preserved and fused with some exciting, new design features that promises to deliver an unforgettable dining experience.

The speakeasy style cocktail bar upstairs has been reborn, creating an intimate setting to enjoy a pre-dinner cocktail or aperitif. The much-loved bar-sofa table remains (a favourite spot for regulars) and guests are able to dine in style on the

original oak bar. The new drinks menu is everything you'd expect from a Manhattan inspired steakhouse including twists on classics, unique cocktail creations and a selection of whiskies, bourbons and cognacs.

The restaurant downstairs has gone through a dramatic makeover, including some new classic New York style booths for a more personal dining experience and ideal for business lunches and entertaining. The re-designed terrace area comes complete with a fully retractable awning for when the sun shines making this little corner of Watergate Street the perfect spot for lunch all year round.

Owner Jason Bligh said: ‘We are beyond excited to unveil the new look and welcome back guests old and new.

We don’t want to give

all the secrets away, but we will soon reveal our very own 'meat ageing room' and a contemporary wine cellar, that will be home to our extensive wine collection including some of Napa Valley's most sought-after wines.'

Speaking about the new menu, fellow owner Rob Bacon said: ‘We have always prided ourselves on showcasing some of the finest steaks whether it be supporting British farmers, the finest beef from the United States or other great cuts and breeds from across the World. We have worked closely with our master butcher to source the very best, well marbled cuts from traditional breeds.’

If you’ve previously dined at Upstairs At The Grill you will be pleased to hear that some favourites from the past 20 years including the blue cheese souffle and French onion soup, along with the iconic Sunday Roast have made a welcome return. www.upstairsatthegrill.co.uk 53

Food & Drink | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Celebrate Global Champagne Day In honour of Global Champagne Day which takes place on 28 October 2022, Comité Champagne share some fascinating facts linked to “le” Champagne product and “la” Champagne region

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IMAGE © JEAN CAZALS

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hampagne is universally known as a wine of celebration, but consumers can explore this complex sparkling favourite by going beyond drinking it just for a toast.

Champagne is an extremely versatile wine that can be perfectly paired with food due to its variety of styles, such as Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, Rosé, Vintage, non-vintage and Prestige Cuvée.

Did you know that various styles of Champagne can enhance your favourite autumnal dish? Here the Bureau du Champagne UK, the educational and promotional arm of the Comité Champagne* based in Epernay, France, advises us on some interesting facts linked to “le” Champagne product and “la” Champagne region.

As we move into the new season, we will begin to see an array of new ingredients on the supermarket shelves from earthy vegetables like butternut squash, celeriac and beetroot to fruits such as apples, quince and figs. These products are ideal for comforting and warming dishes during the cooler days and nights. Vintage brut Champagne, mature blanc de noirs or mature rosé Champagne are the perfect accompaniment for smoky, roasted, animal flavours popular with autumn dishes. These wines have a robust aroma thanks to the dominant pinot noir and meunier grape varieties and are usually deep golden

yellow in colour. Their scents evoke images of the underwood, ripe fruits and wheat.

Champagne is a multi-faceted wine. Depending on the terroir and grape variety used, the aromas will differ. The three types of aromas that mainly exist are categorised as young, mature or full; which include the following: floral (white flowers, acacia, etc.), fruity (citrus, nuts, etc.), mineral (iodine, chalk, etc.), herbaceous (mint, hay, etc.), sweet pastry (brioche, biscuits, etc.), creamy (caramel, butter, etc.), spicy (honey, cinnamon, etc.) or empyreumatic (cocoa, coffee, etc.)…

For pre-dinner drinks, it is generally best to choose a Champagne that is not too vinous, with no particularly dominant aromas: for example, a

non-vintage Brut or a non-vintage Blanc de Blancs.

Serve it with lightly salted crackers, nuts, green olives and bite-sized pieces of Gruyère cheese.

Main course, such as wild mushroom tart and butternut squash & sage risotto A non-vintage Champagne Brut can be served with a main course, as this is the most common Champagne and can be enjoyed throughout a meal, whatever the type of dish being served. You could also pair these particular examples of autumnal dishes with a Blanc de Noirs - made exclusively from dark-skinned grapes such as Pinot Noir and/or Meunier. It is fresh and fruity with delicate hints of biscuit, evoking richness and balanced acidity.

Dessert such as apple crumble If you choose a sweeter Champagne, i.e. sec or demi-sec, then it will pair wonderfully with sweet desserts and puddings. Serve it with creamy or fruit-based desserts as well as sweet pastries.

However, avoid pairing it with chocolate desserts.

About the Champagne region Champagne originated in the Champagne region in Northeast France, spanning across 150km north-east of Paris and covering approx. 34,000 hectares. The Champagne winegrowing area is the most northern of all France’s vineyards.

Champagne became known as the “wine of Kings”. The Kingdom of France was born with King Clovis’ baptism in Reims, within the Champagne region, and therefore wine from this region quickly became associated with the King; before being known as the wine of coronation and the “the wine of Kings and the King of wines”. From 898 until 1825, France’s Kings were crowned in Reims.

Initially, still wines were made in Champagne and were said to flow at all the coronation banquets.

Soon, highly prized for their taste and finesse, it became customary to gift these wines to any royalty visiting the region.

Champagne as we know it today can be traced back to the period running from the turn of the 18th and end of the 19th centuries, thanks to greater control of its effervescence. To control the “prise de mousse” (formation of bubbles), Champagne makers introduced double fermentation known as the “Méthode Champenoise”. A primary fermentation stage is carried out in tanks, whilst the second fermentation is carried out in bottles.

On 4 July 2015, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee registered the “Champagne Hillsides, Houses and Cellars” on the World Heritage list.

Whilst Champagne has always been known as a drink of celebration, it is a versatile product that was born from a region that has endured many struggles over the centuries; from World Wars to the wine blight caused by phylloxera. Still today, its rich heritage through generations of wine makers, its outstanding quality and its continued synonymous link with celebration and pop culture, make it a unique product from an unspoilt region.

So now that you’ve discovered more about Champagne, why not experiment this month by cooking an autumn favourite alongside a glass of Champagne? Or better yet, go and visit the Champagne region, from cultural sites to various wine tours and tastings across a variety of growers, houses and cooperatives. Your eyes will sparkle and trust us, you’ll never look back! *The Comité Champagne is the trade association that represents the interests of Champagne Growers and Houses.

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Feature | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Crai raigg & Chl hlo o e’s

B i g D ay Kate Park, Director of Kate Park Events shares her tale of a magical wedding at Castle Howard in York

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ue to get married in 2020 our clients, Craig & Chloe, were in the final stages of planning their wedding when the first lockdown was announced and, like so many others, they were left having to decide whether to cancel or postpone their big day. With the added complication that their wedding was supposed to be taking place in Portugal, and the borders showing no sign of opening up anytime soon, they made the difficult decision to cancel.

And so it began… cancelling suppliers, claiming for flight refunds and talk of what next.

With all the uncertainty of travelling abroad, Craig & Chloe felt they couldn’t ask their guests to book flights again so it was our job, at Kate Park Events, to find their dream UK wedding venue. It was a

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lengthy process trying to find somewhere that ticked all the boxes but after exploring a range of different venues, and even considering craning a marquee structure over one, the winning choice was the beautiful Castle Howard in York.

With the venue chosen and with it being so different from what they originally were having in Portugal, we essentially started the planning again from scratch. Although the majority of the suppliers we had booked for Portugal were available on the new date (luckily!) the whole vision for the wedding had changed. This meant new supplier site visits, florist design meetings and sample showcases, all of which we (Kate Park Events) arranged and attended to bring Craig & Chloe’s new wedding vision to life.

Craig and Chloe’s wedding took place in July 2022, 2 years after their original date, and it was definitely worth the wait!

The ceremony was held in the Great Hall and then the wedding breakfast and party in a marquee we had built in the grounds with glass windows so guests were looking out at the stunning views of the Castle. The service was slick, the

flowers were showstopping and the entertainment was electric!

To some, a marquee is just a standard structure with basic linings but to us at Kate Park Events it is a blank canvas for us to bring it to life! With no limitations in terms of space or rigging, which can inevitably come with a venue, it gives us the freedom to think big and make our client’s dreams into a reality. Our organisation, creativity and knowledge of the best suppliers means we can transform any space (marquee or otherwise) to make your big day everything you’ve ever dreamed of.

Craig & Chloe’s wedding was 4 years in the making, and we have grown to know each other very well in the process (having even helped Craig with the proposal!) so receiving their kind words the following day was a delight and made everything worthwhile…

“Kate you absolutely nailed it. Thank you for creating such an unforgettable day, you and Rachel deserve a medal… The amount of comments we have received is overwhelming. It was amazing!”

Kate Park Events, 0161 905 2052 www.kateparkevents.co.uk Instagram, Twitter and Facebook: @kateparkevents

AT KATE PARK EVENTS WE DESIGN, PLAN AND MANAGE EVENTS ACROSS THE UK AND WORLDWIDE. FROM INTIMATE GATHERINGS TO LARGE LAVISH AFFAIRS, WE OFFER A BESPOKE SERVICE TAILORED TO YOU

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01/03/2022 09:13

Travel Bucket List

on th th e Bea Beach

Gili Lankanfushi Maldives, the pioneer

of sustainable, barefoot luxury in the Maldives, has launched an unparalleled array of dining experiences as part of its new ‘bucket list on the beach’ offering. From sensory supper in the dark with toes in the sand to a sommelier’s tasting table for wine lovers, there’s an unforgettable experience for all palates at the castaway paradise this season. www.gili-lankanfushi.com

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Travel news

WORDS:CRAIG HOUGH

SIX DESTINATION DINING EXPERIENCES Great Plains, the iconic African eco-tourism organisation, is delighted to serve up its most exceptional epicurean adventures to date. The new bucket list in the bush destination dining experiences are available at Great Plains’ most iconic luxury camps in Botswana, Kenya and Zimbabwe. The sensational dining experiences include:

Lunch with the Elephants At ol Donyo Lodge, adventure-seekers have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to eat lunch alongside an elephant herd of big tuskers.

Guests will take their seat in the hide where the table is laid out with healthy, locally sourced lunch options. Here, they will watch over the watering hole, truly immersed in the wild where the options of sightings are endless. Diners might be accompanied by giraffe bending awkwardly for their midday drink, resident elephant herds, wildebeest and more.

Dining on the Banks of the Zambezi Enjoying a majestic setting on the banks of Zimbabwe’s Zambezi river, Great Plains’ Tembo Plains Camp provides the ultimate wilderness experience. Guests can now extend their bush adventure with a waterside dinner overlooking the Zambezi, whose power is culturally embedded in the country’s history. As guests are mesmerised by the peacefully flowing water before them, an expert team of chefs will create a mouth-watering array of dishes for them to enjoy by candlelight while reliving the adventures of the preceding day. www.greatplainsconservation.com

NEW FOR 2022/23 SKI SEASON Chalet Le Cygne, Méribel, France Opening in December 2022, Le Cygne is a brand new chalet-style four bedroom apartment located near the Rhodos lift for ski-in, ski-out access, and perfectly located for access to the centre of both Meribel and Courchevel.

The contemporary alpine apartment sleeps eight guests comfortably with plenty of spacious communal areas and boasts a sauna, private hammam, underfloor heating throughout and breathtaking panoramic mountain views.

M Lodge & Spa, Saint Martin de Belleville A stunning brand new 5 star boutique hotel located in Saint Martin de Belleville, a quaint and charming alpine village in the heart of The Three Valleys, offering guests immediate access to the largest ski area in the world.

Set to open on 15th December 2022, this beautiful new 25 room boutique hotel will be the only five star hotel in the area with breathtaking mountain and valley views, two private five-bedroom fully staffed chalets for larger groups, a chic restaurant and a 2,000sqm spa with a 16 metre swimming pool, gym, relaxation space and three massage cabins, perfect for those seeing a little pampering after a day on the slopes. www.fishandpips.co.uk 60

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

T he Tra Tr a vel Insid Insi d er This month Phil Aird-Mash, Aird-Mash , CEO of ITC Travel Group focuses on destination dining

F

or many of us, food is an essential part of travel. Indeed, when you think of your favourite holiday experiences, often it’s the food that stays in your mind. Wherever you go, getting to the heart of a place’s culinary traditions and gourmet innovations unlocks a whole new realm of discovery.

Perhaps you dream of private sandbank dinners under the stars, lengthy al fresco lunches, or some sizzling street food? Maybe you’re after Michelin-starred fare, wine-tasting tours or something else entirely? From the vineyards of California to the slightly more unusual dishes of Eastern Europe and the spices of Asia, why not join us in being led by your tastebuds for your next adventure?

In Australia’s Queensland, our Travel Specialists love qualia, the ultimate retreat for epicureans. In between seeing the best of Hamilton Island, you can try multi-course dégustations and signature culinary experiences.

With ‘Talk and Taste’, you’ll enjoy the finest food pairings with wine chosen by the expert sommelier – all with the stunning backdrop of the surrounding Whitsundays.

QUALIA, BEACH HOUSE QUALIA, PEBBLE BEACH DINING

SONEVA FUSHI, FLYING SAUCES - ZIPLINE DINING

region. Stop by Hakkasan for all-out indulgence, and Ossiano for fine dining complete with a sideshow of 65,000 marine life.

So, when you take your next holiday, be sure to get a full taste of the menu. www.inspiringtravel.co.uk

It sometimes takes something out-of-the-ordinary to impress seasoned Maldives guests. That’s why I was so excited by Soneva Fushi’s latest culinary offering, ‘Flying Sauces’. Soar through the jungle on a zipline to an elevated platform, where a private butler serves gourmet delights paired with wines from the extraordinary cellar.

Meanwhile, Dubai has positioned itself as the culinary capital of the world. And with more than 250 cultural food concepts representing 191 countries, all in one place, it’s no exaggeration. Delight your palate at Atlantis, The Palm, with the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the

ATLANTIS THE PALM

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Local relationship banking for you and your business At Handelsbanken, relationship banking still lives up to its name. Our simple aim is to provide the best possible service.

• Direct line access to your account manager • Key decisions are made locally by us at the branch • Our experienced managers work with you to develop solutions to fit your requirements We provide a wide range of banking services, from mortgages and current accounts to savings for personal customers. Our business banking services include finance for specific funding requirements, asset and trade finance and cash management solutions.

Contact your local branch manager where we will be delighted to talk to you about your specific needs and longer term plans and how we can support you.

handelsbanken.co.uk/findmybranch Altrincham l Chester l Stockport l Warrington l Wilmslow Handelsbanken is the trading name of Handelsbanken plc, which is incorporated in England and Wales with company number 11305395. Registered office: 3 Thomas More Square, London, E1W 1WY, UK. Handelsbanken plc is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority. Financial Services Register number 806852. Handelsbanken plc is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Svenska Handelsbanken AB (publ).

0079 l 00.235 l 01.2022

HB 01-22 - 0072 - THE CHESHIRE MAGAZINE (2).indd 1

02/03/2022 10:03:57

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

M eet t he

H o telie telierr

ANDY NICHOLSON, GENERAL MANAGER AT STORRS HALL HOTEL

What are the benefits of your location?

It’s in one of the most spectacular parts of the country – and to be placed right on the shores of England’s largest lake with privacy and seclusion, with miles of uninterrupted views, is more unusual than you’d think. It’s the reason the hotel was built here – to enjoy the lake. Historically Wordsworth came here to enjoy boating regattas. Our guests can get right on the water without leaving the grounds or enjoy long walks with great views. It’s so beautiful and peaceful.

What is the most luxurious accommodation at the hotel?

Our unique boathouse, there’s nothing else like it. It’s enclosed by gardens and sits on the lake, you have a private keycode for access and parking – so the whole plot is yours. Inside has every conceivable luxury, with a big open plan suite facing out over the lake, and a steam room in the bathroom. It has a huge terrace with plenty of seating by a fire pit, a private hot tub, and even a lily pond. The views are west and north up the lake for miles.

The luxury is as much the experience as the facilities. We do a room service hamper breakfast – and the facilities

of the hotel are on hand too. You don’t have to lift a finger.

breakfast and our A la Carte menus; and the Tower Bar which is more casual serving pub food classics.

Whichever one you opt for the approach is the same, great ingredients and loving preparation that focuses on flavour – our first priority is that you relax and really enjoy your meal. Whether it’s herb-crusted Halibut or a burger.

What can you tell us about the history of the hotel?

Of all the facilities the hotel offers, which is your favourite?

The original building was built as an alternative to a home in the Swiss lakes by a Yorkshireman who was keen on boating.

He picked the most advantageous position on the lake. He continued to hold parties and boating regattas here.

Local luminaries such as Wordsworth and his circle of Romantic Poet friends were hosted here. John Constable’s uncle owned the hall for a while, and Constable and Turner stayed here for sketching tours of the lakes. Beatrix Potter was a frequent party guest too.

It is hard to pick, from the terraces with lake views south, which are idyllic in summer; to our characterful in-house bar that features a Victorian bar recycled from Blackpool Tower – equally welcoming on a winter’s day. The cherry on the cake and my personal favourite is our vintage Thames Slipper Launch, which we use for private skippered lake tours, with a bottle of Champagne. It’s a different way for guests to see the landscape, it really is travelling in style. www.storrshall.com

How would you describe the hotel’s dining experience?

Relaxed classic British. Head Chef Andy Beaton focuses on the food that people love to eat, enduringly popular dishes prepared exceptionally well, and all in-house. We have two dining spaces and menus, the main restaurant where we serve a full English 63

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Promotion

In the Festi estiv ve Spii rit with Sp wit h Prid Pridee of B rit rita a i n Hotels A

t Christmas, there is no greater gift than creating enchanted memories with family and friends. Pride of Britain Hotels offer the ideal setting to relax in style and comfort, with none of the work involved in entertaining guests at home. The charming hotels are dotted across the British Isles, each with an independent spirit, and each with a chef showcasing their individual style - so guests can savour a superb selection of epicurean delights.

In Berkshire at The Vineyard, Chef Tom Scade loves the abundance of ingredients available during the festive season; he claims the hotel’s game pie to be extremely popular, served with home-made Cumberland chutney that also perfectly accompanies cold cuts on Boxing Day (recipe included).

At Talbooth House & Spa in Dedham, Essex, Chef Andrew Hirst favours pigs in blankets, sourcing chipolatas locally and

wrapping them in streaky cured bacon.

Talbooth’s five-course gourmet Christmas menu features seasonal delights such as duck liver parfait with fig and pear soufflé with mulled wine ice cream. Perfectly paired wines accompany each course.

If you fancy a trip to glorious Wales, pay a visit to Chef Douglas Balish at Grove of Narberth in Pembrokeshire. He confides that one of his favourite Christmas desserts, served in the hotel’s Fernery restaurant, is a chocolate fondant tart with Araguani (Venezuelan dark chocolate), vanilla and candied chestnut; delicious eggnog is infused with pine nuts from the grounds.

In Scotland, Chef Craig Douglas at Ness Walk in Inverness loves the inspiration that the changing seasons bring to his menus. The Torrish Restaurant serves festive spices and flavours, alongside mulled wine and warming liqueurs. For dessert, he recommends a gingerbread fondant with fragrant Tonka bean-scented ice cream.

Northcote in Lancashire creates truly gastronomic experiences in the delightful Ribble Valley. Festive menus are created by Executive Chef, Lisa Goodwin-Allen; Christmas puddingflavoured ice cream is but one part of a sumptuous seasonal dessert.

Northcote’s warm northern welcome and first-class cellar, make Christmas a simply magical experience.

Wherever you choose to stay across the British Isles, each Pride of Britain hotel will offer intimate, cosy experiences with a quintessential Christmas ambience, creating magical memories - without any of the hard work!

Plan your Christmas festivities now at www.prideofbritainhotels.com

C u mb e rl and C hu t ney INGREDIENTS 5kg Frozen cranberries 500g Demerara sugar 6 Onions Zest from 8 oranges 150g Redcurrant jelly 200 ml Ruby port 2 tbsp Wholegrain mustard 30g Cabernet Sauvignon vinegar

METHOD Fry the onions, add cranberries, sugar and the rest of the ingredients to the pan and cook down to a chutney consistency, stirring regularly.

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Travel | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Contemporary Comfort in A Convenient Location Kathryn Otto found Delta Hotels by Marriott Manchester Airport the perfect place to stay before she went away

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elta Hotels by Marriott Manchester Airport is a destination hotel to stay, play, meet, begin, fly, pamper, excite, surprise, relax, enjoy, connect, refresh, celebrate. It is a unique destination amongst its competition on the border of Manchester and Cheshire. There is lots to discover and explore, with something exciting around every corner. Visitors might be surprised at what they find, and you can get more from your visit than expected.

Guest Rooms There are 215 bedrooms in total.

• 120 Standard Double / King • 48 Twin Doubles • 15 Family (King + Sofa bed) • 20 Executive King • 12 Suites

Food and Drink The hotel also boats two on-site destination restaurants, each with their own bar outdoor dining terrace.

Brasserie Blanc - Brasserie Blanc is Raymond’s group of authentic French brasseries where a warm welcome and sensational food are assured. The seasonal menu is honest, affordable, and cooked with heart by a wonderful team of chefs. The brasseries are all individual and beautifully designed combining comfort and a relaxed ambience. The philosophy of ‘Chez Nous’ runs through the heart of the brasseries – their home is your home, arrive and let them take care of you.

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Our Visit

San Carlo Fiorentina - a stylish destination offering the best in authentic Italian food. On the Fiorentina menu you’ll find spectacular seafood, meat, pasta and pizza dishes, however Fiorentina’s skilled chefs are best known for cooking the finest steaks in the region. In a league entirely of their own, steaks at Fiorentina are cooked using a special Robata wood-fired flame grill which greatly enhances their flavour. Fiorentina is also the only restaurant in the group to serve up traditional Sunday lunch. Add to this offering an expertly stocked wine list and you’ll be spoilt for choice when you dine.

Having booked a very early flight from Manchester Airport I thought it would be best to look to stay at a hotel close by to the airport.

The Marriott was the first place I thought of, as I pass it many times when traveling to see clients and I even had my first date with my partner in the restaurant there. The location is perfect, less than 5 minutes from the airport and close to the village of Hale, ideal for guests staying for a flight or for a night away. I was surprised to discover the spa with an indoor pool. I was spoilt for choice with the two onsite restaurants San Carlo and Brasserie Blanc and decided to dine in the heated garden of San Carlo which did not disappoint. All the team were so friendly and willing to help in any way they could even organising me a private transfer for my early flight the next morning.

I enjoyed a fabulous start to my holiday with my stay at Delta Hotels by Marriott Manchester Airport, I could not recommend enough. www.marriott.com

Leisure Club & Spa • • • • • • • •

20m heated swimming pool Plunge pool Sauna Steam room Jacuzzi Gym with cardio, CV and free weights Personal training studio / Spin studio Aerobic studio with timetabled classes

There is also a health and beauty salon ‘Four Seasons Spa’ offering a wide range of treatments, Elemis products and gift ideas.

Six treatment rooms include a double treatment room, relaxation area, pedicure and manicure stations.

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

E sca scap p e to T he C ount ountrr y Set amongst the beautiful countryside within Devon’s Dartmoor National Park, Bovey Castle was the choice of Jamie Stephenson for a relaxing weekend retreat Location

Accommodation

Set deep in Dartmoor countryside, along high hedge Devon lanes, this imposing and spectacular mansion house sits overlooking tors and valleys.

This 60 individually designed room hotel and 22 lodges were built in 1907 and belonged to William Henry Smith the stationary magnate of WHSmith. It looks down over River Bovey and also includes an 18 hole championship golf course as well as 5,000 acres of stunning Dartmoor views.

Easily accessible to Exeter by train, the hotel even provides its own transport to the hotel.

But once you are here the world you have left just disappears around you.

The main house, extended in the 1990s, boasts a great hall with a panelled room, Jacobean features and a long hall leading to an elaborate staircase and rooms. I toured a number of bedrooms, all designed with great opulence but with a contemporary feel of luxury, warmth and peace. The bridal suite is the crown jewel and sits central to the main house looking over the gardens and comes with a balcony and dressing room. All rooms feel quiet, cosy and beautifully maintained. Views across the house and down to the river were just stunning.

Alongside the main house, nestled in trees and planting are 22 tall lodges. Each, 3 en-suite bedrooms feel like a house in itself with specious well equipped kitchens, lounges and outside space including decked areas and BBQs. Guests can enjoy a hamper crammed full

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of local Devon food and drink and each lodge is set up to provide full self catering for 6 adults a stone’s throw from the main house. For anyone wanting a hideaway or to enjoy a home from home these are ideal for couples, friends and families alike.

Facilities The main house and grounds are purposefully set up for rest, relaxation and fun. The golf course spreads from the front gates through to the main house itself and is managed by a team of professionals and even boasts a shop. For avid golfers, this is a majestic setting taking in the hills and valets with the course running past the river. The course was designed in 1926 to rival sister courses in Gleneagles and Turnberry and it does just that.

Inside the house, there is a small but well equipped gym and sizeable indoor pool art deco pool which includes a

whirlpool, sauna and steam room overlooking the golf course and river.

Upstairs there is a peaceful and relaxing Elan Spa. The team, all local to Bovey were more than helpful in guiding me through the treatments and picked out one for men that left me feeling refreshed and ready to face the world again!

Outside there are 5,000 acres to explore.

Guides can take you to get up close to the local deer herd or provide maps for you to walk to the local village of North Bovey and have a pint in its ancient pub. There are a set of tennis courts set alongside the lodges but if you are weary, just sitting out on the terrace overlooking the gardens and river is a joy in itself.

Food and Drink On the first night, I was lucky enough to experience The Tasting Room. I felt quite excited when arrived and was welcomed by one of the unformed bar tenders who sat me down with a glass of champagne and an 8 course tasting menu.

Just reading the menu made me dream about what was about to come. The small and delicate

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

Experience

dining room is delightful, and the staff took the time to explain and chat through each part of the menu. Each course was supported by a pairing wine, again all of which were described and explained. Local Devon and south west produce were used at all times and again the provenance story was well told. It was an experience I don’t think I will ever forget, and I could have just kept those courses rolling, each one telling a story and leaving me with tingling taste buds.

The menu is very seasonal and I enjoyed local venison, Devon Beef, coastal seafood and a great selection of south west cheeses. I enjoyed breakfast in the lodge each day. Stocked well with teas and coffees, fresh bread from the local town of Mortonhampstead, jams, fresh muesli and yoghurts. On the second evening, I was ready for a film and TV night and was pleased to see the hotel could match that with takeaway pizza, and other comfort food dishes delivered straight to your door from the hotel kitchens next door.

I arrived feeling tired and a bit run down. I left feeling invigorated and recovered. I found all the staff equally friendly and chatty. From those on reception to my 4x4 experience guide stay out in the Dartmoor hills in a formidable Land Rover Defender tackling sharp inclines and declines. If you want fresh air and luxury look no further. If you want to be tucked away to indulge in pampering and luxury this is the place to be.

Devon and Dartmoor are very special places. Away from crowded and tourist filled Cornwall and close to beautiful cities such as Exeter and the south and north coasts this location has it all.

Once you have found Bovey Castle, chances are you will come back time and time again in all seasons of the year. It’s a bit like a home and makes you grin every time you drive up the road.

You feel all the weight of the world drop off your shoulders and the staff and facilities allow you to do nothing or do everything the hotel offers. www.boveycastle.com

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Drive D roprop-T Top D r ea eam m

The electric Mini Hatch has already

been a huge hit with customers, thanks to its eco-friendly performance and attractive looks. But now there’s an even better option, allowing electric car drivers to enjoy the open road and the open air. The Mini Electric Convertible is, sadly, a one-off that will never enter mass production, but Mini says it showcases the “open-air fun of the future”. If it’s as enjoyable to drive as the hatchback, it will certainly be great fun, and Mini is promising similar performance. With a 181bhp electric motor and a 145-mile range, it’ll get from 0-62mph in less than eight seconds, while the canvas roof can be opened or closed in 18 seconds at speeds of up to 18mph.

Mini Electric Convertible, www.mini.co.uk

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DRIVE PRANCING THOROUGHBRED Keeping you up to date with all the latest motoring and technology news WORDS: JAMES FOSSDYKE

Although it won’t admit it, Ferrari has revealed its first SUV, so James Fossdyke went all the way to Italy to see the new Purosangue in the metal

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n a dark corner of Ferrari’s Italian design department, a controversial project has been under development. The Purosangue (Italian for Thoroughbred, apparently) is a rival for the Lamborghini Urus and Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT, but Ferrari won’t admit that. Instead, the bosses in Maranello simply describe the Purosangue as Ferrari’s first four-door car. Even though it technically has five doors, but no matter.

With aerodynamic bodywork and a luxurious, high-tech cabin, the Purosangue is clearly intended as family transport, while the 185mm ground clearance and four-wheel-drive system should give it some off-road capability. It also comes with rear-hinged back doors, which make a statement if nothing else. From our poke around the inside, we can tell it’s roomy enough for four adults and there’s a decent boot back there.

Under the bonnet, positioned between the front

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wheels for better weight distribution, is the 6.5-litre V12 petrol engine with which Ferrari aims to beat the V8powered competition. There’s no clever turbocharging under there, just a mammoth 715bhp that takes the Purosangue from 0-62mph in 3.3 seconds and from 0-124mph in 10.6 seconds.

Flat out, it’ll do more than 190mph. And thanks to Ferrari’s new Active Suspension Technology, or FAST (a backronym if ever there was one) and rear-wheel steering, the Italian engineers say it will still handle like a sports car.

Ferrari Purosangue, from £350,000 (estimate), www.ferrari.com

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

VANTAGE POINT

loves

The Aston Martin V12 Vantage sounds great, and now owners will be able to get even closer to that rumble. That’s thanks to the new Roadster version, which gets the same 5.2-litre V12 engine as the coupe, but adds a folding canvas roof to the mix. Aston Martin claims it has worked hard to make the soft-top as impressive to drive as possible, with its own suspension settings and the same 694bhp power output. It’s certainly quick, with the 0-62mph sprint done in 3.5 seconds. You’ll have to be equally quick off the mark to get one, though, with just 249 examples on offer worldwide.

Aston Martin V12 Vantage Roadster, £TBC, www.astonmartin.com

ROADSTER WITH BITE American hypercar maker Hennessey has revealed its latest model, which it calls the world’s “fastest and most powerful” roadster. Dubbed the Venom F5 Roadster, the car is a drop-top version of Hennessey’s 1,817bhp Venom F5 Coupe, which means there’s a carbon-fibre structure and a 6.6-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, as well as a seven-speed automatic gearbox. The result is an open-air hypercar that can reach a top speed in excess of 300mph. Just 30 will be made and prices from $3,000,000, so Hennessey is promising exclusivity as well as speed.

Hennessey Venom, $3,000,000, www.hennesseyspecialvehicles.com

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

GR 8 Expectati pectatio ons

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Drive

The new Toyota GR86 goes straight in among the very best sports cars you can buy, writes James Fossdyke. It’s just a pity there won’t be more of them

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eonardo da Vinci was, as we all know, a very clever man. Painter, engineer, designer, writer – it’s as though there was nothing he couldn’t do, except maybe live forever. Still, while old Leonardo may have snuffed it back in 1519, his words have survived the centuries and they usually hold true today. One of my particular favourite da Vinci-isms is “simplicity is the ultimate sophistication”, and it seems Toyota liked it too.

Because many moons ago, Toyota launched a sports car that would extoll the virtue of simplicity to the max. It was called the GT86, and it really was very simple indeed. A 2.0-litre petrol engine drove the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox, the front wheels did the steering and the driver sat in the middle, controlling it all. That’s pretty much all there was to it.

The justification for all this simplicity was the pursuit of driving purity, rather than lap times, and the GT86 delivered in spades. Toyota engineered the car so it didn’t have too much grip, meaning dab hands could enjoy the tail happy characteristics at non-threatening speeds, and the Japanese company deliberately included a special tube between the engine bay and cabin so you could hear the engine more clearly.

While the resulting car was undoubtedly immense fun, it wasn’t what you’d call refined.

Long journeys quickly became wearing. The noise was great when you put your foot down, but it settled into an unlovable drone on the motorway, while the cheap plastics and lack of straight-line speed were irritating. Owners were well advised to swap the original low-grip tyres for stickier versions, too, otherwise the car became really tail happy in the wet. It was generally docile and easy to correct, as long as you were expecting it.

As a result, the GT86 was loved by enthusiasts but unloved by the general public, who found it a little too hardcore. So Toyota went back to the drawing board and created the GR86, which is designed to iron out the GT86’s flaws.

From the outside, it looks much the same as before, with a long bonnet and a squat, muscular rear end. It’s a classic sports car design, but it doesn’t just exist to look good.

It allows the weight to be distributed evenly across the length of the car, and it means the driver sits roughly in the middle, giving them the sensation that the car is pivoting around their hips.

Inside, the basic theory is unchanged, but the details have come on in leaps and bounds. The cabin plastics are that little bit more tactile, the seats are a tad more supportive and the touchscreen infotainment system is in a different league. It all adds up to make the GR86 feel altogether more modern and more user friendly. Toyota’s coupe is clearly more than just a toy.

That said, it isn’t especially practical. It’s still very much a two-door car, and access to the back seats is limited at best. Not that anyone will want to spend very long back there. Headroom is almost non-existent thanks to the sloping rear window and legroom isn’t much better – particularly if you’re sitting behind someone tall. In truth, those seats are best used as a parcel shelf on which you can store the items that don’t fit in the boot.

At least the luggage space is fairly generous.

The boot measures a little over 220 litres, which makes it roughly as big as those found in small city cars. Think Fiat 500 and the like.

Admittedly, you will get more space from the more upmarket Audi TT, but that’s nowhere near as good to drive.

And that’s the real reason for choosing a GR86, because very few things on the road offer this much driving pleasure. It may not be that fast – with 231bhp it’s far from the most powerful thing on the road – but Toyota has fitted proper tyres and kept the weight in check despite the extra creature comforts. That means it’s agile and nippy, which makes it absolutely awesome on a country lane, and the fact it isn’t too big or too fast means you can enjoy it all

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Drive | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Toyota GR86

the more. Where a supercar might be threatening or difficult, the GR86 is pure and just puts a smile on your face.

It isn’t like you sacrifice too much to achieve that, either.

The ride isn’t especially soft, but nor is it overly firm. It won’t shake your teeth out every time you go over a pothole. The clutch isn’t too heavy, either, and nor is the steering, which makes the GR86 more usable in town.

You really could commute in it. And if you wanted to take a road trip, the Toyota would be the perfect companion.

Yet despite its brilliance, the GR86 doesn’t cost very much. In fact, prices start at just under £30,000. That’s considerably cheaper than the entry-level Audi TT, and you get more equipment for your money. There’s only one version of the GR86 available in the UK, and it comes with 18-inch alloy wheels, a

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reversing camera and a touchscreen infotainment Price: £29,995 system. You get Engine: 2.4-litre petrol heated front Gearbox: Six-speed manual seats, too, as well 0-62mph: 6.3 seconds as the Android Top speed: 140mph Auto and Apple Power: 231bhp CarPlay smartphone integration systems.

In short, the GR86 is wonderful. For this money, nothing can match the purity and joy of the Toyota – not even the Mazda MX-5.

The GR86 goes down as one of the all-time great sports cars and automotive perfection for driving enthusiasts. Don’t get me wrong – those who aren’t purists will probably prefer some more upmarket alternatives – but if you love driving nothing else will do.

And that’s a problem, because getting hold of one is difficult. So popular has the car been with enthusiasts that it’s essentially sold out, with only a few hundred destined for customers in the UK. And that’s a shame, because it means only a handful of very lucky people will get to experience the GR86’s brilliance. If you’re among them, I envy you.

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Home Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine |

Feature

A le lex xan and d er T ho m a s Born out of the demand for beautiful hand curated homewares, stylish European antiques and original contemporary art, all combined in a fusion of unique interior styling, Alexander Thomas is the exquisite new interiors brand everyone’s talking about

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alented interior designers Glenn Robb and Iain Pritchard met 10 years ago and quickly realised they had very parallel childhoods with the same interest and intrigue with houses, architecture and interiors.

A birthday treat would be a visit to show homes or a National Trust House as a child, and as such, they knew they were destined to meet. They are now able to work and create together as partners in both business and in life.

Over the last five years, the couple has enjoyed the privilege of owning and restoring a beautiful Georgian country house in Shropshire. It had been partially renovated and then left empty for a number of years and felt very much in need of some love and vision to bring it back to its former glory. Lucky enough not to have to undergo any structural changes, they were also fortunate that the layout worked very well and all the original windows were in decent condition to restore; then by avoiding trends and focusing on timeless elegance, they pulled on many design references, but especially from the original architecture of the building and the era it was built in. Working with the features and the scale of the rooms really allows the design to speak for itself.

“We poured every fibre of ourselves into our beautiful Georgian home. It had been partially renovated by a previous owner and then left empty for a number of years and felt very much in need

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Home | The CHESHIRE Magazine

FINISHING TOUCHES AD EXCESTIS MAIO BERIBUSCIM VOLUM ACCABOR MOD ET ACCULLUPTUS ET UT QUAS UNTIO EXCERERFERUM VELECTIOS MOLORE CORUM VOLUPTI AUT INVEL IUS APELIGNITIIS INIS NON CONEM IL IPSAM, CUPTATE MPELLOREMPOS EST UT ET RE RE, SAM LAUT QUUNTIOS MOD MAIO. ITAE QUISTOT ATEMPOR EHENDIT EIUNT

of some love and vision to bring it back to life.

Bare floorboards, partially painted walls, overgrown grounds, and it just felt as though the builders had abandoned ship part way through. We have equally enjoyed re-establishing the formal gardens, which are very much an extension of the interiors with each area of the grounds forming “rooms” boasting year round interest. It’s been fun and rewarding to re-create the garden and has felt like an extension to what we already do.”

When they bought the house, they worked their way meticulously through one room at a time, and as a result, more and more friends would ask for assistance with their own room schemes and interior design. The duo loved sourcing items for their own house and had built up a great network of suppliers and contacts, so it was a natural progression to establish Alexander Thomas as a business.

Iain and Glenn also enjoyed creating their own collection of cushions and lampshades so much

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so that they will expand the collection with many more items throughout 2022 and into 2023.

Consisting of a bespoke collection of artisan furniture, sumptuous signature cushions and lamp bases with gathered silk ikat lamp shades that bring style, energy and life to any home, as well as a carefully selected collection of ever-changing continental antique furniture, contemporary art and homewares, Alexander Thomas harbours all things individual and eclectic for the home. Whether it be a country house in the Cotswolds, a modern apartment in London, a converted barn in Wiltshire or a cosy cottage in Cornwall, every home deserves diverse one-off pieces that help to create special spaces and a serene oasis of calm, which is where Alexander Thomas has the answer.

With an extensive background in interior design and mutual passion for property renovations, architecture, antiques, art and design, Iain Pritchard and Glenn Robb founded Alexander Thomas, having both lovingly restored a number of properties in addition to their stunning Shropshire home, over the last two decades, combined with their delight in seeing tired buildings brought back to life with expertly curated interiors.

Homes and Interiors

Over time, the duo have built up a diverse “little black book” of artisan makers from across Great Britain and around the world, as well as an array of talented artists whose work they are proud to showcase and represent as part of Alexander Thomas, and therefore offering something truly original and un-matched to its clients.

“We love how a paired back beautiful burr walnut commode can sit wonderfully with a striking abstract piece of original art, a handmade ceramic lamp base and an elegant bespoke silk ikat shade.

Combining heritage pieces along with flashes of contemporary styling is truly the Alexander Thomas signature look.”

The collection is ever changing and as an extension of their love for renovating properties, both Iain and Glenn love the process of creating and designing what’s going to be launched next.

Only ever wanting things to be available in very small quantities so that clients can enjoy those items without feeling like all their friends have the exact same piece, the most popular choices are the bespoke gathered silk ikat shades, as well as the new, gathered silk block print range along with unique and bespoke lamp bases - perfect for filling your home with warmth and colour this winter, or gifting to a loved one this Christmas.

Iain and Glenn have so many plans for the future which include further bespoke furniture ranges, a handmade rug collection, antique lighting, homeware, tableware and also their own fabric and wallpaper collection, which will emulate the style and eye design that is seen throughout their own home and the many renovations they have undertaken over the years. www.alexanderthomas.com

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Hot Property

THE GRANGE STATION ROAD, CROWTON, CHESHIRE CW8 2RQ A HOME WITH HERITAGE IN ITS FOUNDATIONS AND LAUGHTER IN ITS WALLS, WELCOME TO THE GRANGE, A PRESTIGIOUS HOME OF AROUND 10 ACRES, HIDDEN AWAY ALONG A PRIVATE LANE OFF STATION ROAD IN CROWTON

OFFERS OVER £1,975,000

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dyllically set, with stables, lake, paddocks and plenty of privacy, cross the bridge over the large lake, fed by two streams, before arriving along the newly laid driveway at the electric wooden gated entrance to The Grange. Built in 1878 and once owned by the affluent and locally renowned Gandy family, so well-loved is The Grange that it has had a total of only 4 owners in its near 150-year history.

More recently, it served as the childhood home of comedian and actress Jennifer Saunders, who wed Ade Edmondson at the local Crowton Church, before hosting the reception in the grounds of The Grange.

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PERIOD FEATURES Make your way to the impressive porch before emerging onto the Minton tiled floor of the entrance hall. Broad, bright and welcoming, high ceilings laced with elegant cornicing and ornate plaster corbels set the scene for a home where classic and contemporary coexist in harmony, courtesy of interior designer-led décor from Arighi Bianchi throughout.

Formal feasting is best enjoyed in the impressive dining room, beyond the broad period door on the right. Ideal for entertaining guests, dinner parties and carving the Christmas joint, a broad bay window delivers light through, framing views out over the front.

FORMAL FINESSE Across the entrance hall, make your way through to the drawing room, where the large front window provides breathtaking views out over the gardens. Carpeted in cream, its proportions mirror those of the dining room, as a log-burning stove crackles and chuckles within its marble surround. Light, bright and providing fine views out over the gardens and lake, continue through into the garden room.

Rebuilt four years ago, bathe in the warmth of the afternoon sun as it moves around the front.

Returning to the entrance hall, find the useful downstairs cloakroom, with wash basin and WC. Also located along this

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Home

inner hallway is the sitting room; a relaxed and intimate space that could also serve as a playroom. Returning to, and crossing the entrance hall, feast your eyes on the heart of the home: the family kitchen. Rustic farmhouse warmth resonates with chic country style as earthy flagstone flooring and duck egg cabinetry combine, whilst spotlighting adds a New England vibe to the spotlit ceiling overhead.

ENTERTAINING HAVEN Coming out of the kitchen into the back hall discover a handy boot room area with a church pew. Note the stairs leading down to the dry cellar, a versatile space great for storing wine and with two rooms used as games rooms. Ideal for parties, outside steps lead up to the fire pit patio.

SOAK & SLEEP Refresh and revive in the contemporary wet-room ensuite, where olive greengrey tiles coat the walls with greige tiles underfoot. Spritz your way into a new day beneath the rainfall shower. Also located off the lobby is a light and bright dressing room, replete with two walls of floor to ceiling fitted wardrobes.

Make your way through to the main

bedroom, where the high ceiling and spaciousness create an instant sense of calm. Attractive cornicing, a marbled fireplace and original picture rails add character, as light streams in through a window to the side and a large front facing window, which provides picturesque views out over the lake.

Coming out of the main bedroom, traverse the large, light-filled landing and make your way through to bedroom two, nestled to the front of the home. Wake up to sublime views out over the lake, a pleasure throughout the seasons. Tiled in classic black and white underfoot, a period door opens to the ensuite, furnished with a bath containing an overhead shower, wash basin and WC. Turning right out of this room, step into an inner landing where ahead, bedroom three awaits. Spacious and swimming in light, a large window draws in views over the gardens. Next door a smaller room, ideal as a walk-in wardrobe or study is currently used for storage.

ROOM FOR ALL Perfect for older children craving their own independence, make your way to the second floor. Bedroom five, dressed in tonal greys frames leafy views out over the garden. A cast iron fireplace harks

back to the heritage of the home.

Next, discover a single bedroom which could be great as a playroom or perhaps as a homework room or gaming room for computers.

Serving the second-floor bedrooms is a spacious and recently renovated bathroom, tiled underfoot and to the walls, and furnished with a bath containing an overhead shower, wall mounted wash basin and WC. At the end of the landing, a final double bedroom also serves as an office.

IDYLLIC GARDENS Wrapped up in around ten acres of garden and grounds, the outdoor space at The Grange is a natural playground for children, with a large orchard containing dozens of apple and pear trees, and a formal tree garden running down to the lake, where there is a boathouse for days out on the water.

The ultimate country retreat for families with older children, with ample space for entertaining indoors and out, The Grange beckons. Safe, secure, secluded, yet not isolated, The Grange offers everything you could want for a great family experience. www.storeysofcheshire.co.uk 01606 339922, hello@storeysofcheshire.co.uk

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Home | Homes and Interiors The CHESHIRE Magazine

And Finally ...

Designed to turn heads, the Ercol Ballatta Drinks cabinet is ideal for entertaining guests with room for storing 24 wine bottles horizontally and shelving space for bar accessories, bottles and glassware. Below the glassed front area is a pull out wooden shelf ideal for using as a bar to make any drinks for you and your guests.

From £2,270, www.ercol.com

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