Cambridge Edition Magazine

Cambridge FEBRUARY 2012

Cambridgeshire’s quality lifestyle magazine www.cambsedition.co.uk

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Inside this issue...

EARTH-FRIENDLY INTERIORS

of the best

CURRIES IN CAMBRIDGESHIRE WHAT’S ON THIS MONTH IN CAMBRIDGE

LOVE is in the air Going out, staying in, or simply choosing the perfect gift. We’ve got all your Valentine’s Day needs covered

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MATT CARDLE Exclusive Interview

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contents

march 2012

48

Welcome This is a very special issue for us since it marks our first birthday as a publication. Over the past 12 months the team behind Cambridge Edition has grown and the magazine has evolved into something that we all feel really proud of – we hope you’ve been enjoying reading it as much as we’ve been enjoying putting it together! In honour of our birthday and to help us give something back to the local community, we’re also very excited to be launching our Charity of the Year initiative. The first charity that we’ll be supporting will be the Rosie

7-15 • News & Events A monthly round up of exciting events, goings-on and competitions 16-17 • Local Listings A comprehensive guide to local events this March 18-19 • Charity of the Year Launch This year, Cambridge Edition will be fundraising for the Rosie Maternity Hospital, find out more and how you can get involved 20-21 • Reader Survey We want to know what your best bits are about Cambridge Edition and what you want to see more of. Tell us what floats your boat by filling in our reader survey for the chance to win more than £600 worth of prizes 23-24 • Food Alex waxes lyrical on the joys of his current favourite kitchen gadget, the humble pressure cooker 26-27 • 5 of the best: Italians Mamma Mia, Cambridge has some topnotch Italian restaurants, but which is best? There’s only one way to find out…

29 • Mother’s Day Gift Guide With 18 March just around the corner, it’s time to get your thinking cap on for mum-friendly gifts. Here’s our inspiration 30-39 • Weddings With wedding season almost upon us, we spoke to local brides and found out what they’ve got planned for their big day, as well as getting top tips from experts on making sure the event goes off without a hitch 41 • Beauty It’s not just your home that you should be thinking about spring cleaning, this month Miss B shows you how to declutter and spruce up your cosmetics kit

Hospital Campaign, and over the next year we’ll be

16

working our socks off to raise £10,000 pounds to help buy essential equipment for the new expansion to the hospital, turn to page 19 to learn more and find out how you can get involved. We also thought now would be an ideal time to find out what you would like to see more of in Cambridge Edition: what do you like and dislike and what would you love to see featured in

42-45 • Fashion Fashion blogger Esme Benjamin makes her predictions for spring summer 2012.

It’s going to be a riot of outrageous prints for the lads and a rainbow of candy-sweet hues for the ladies…

47 • Property Ian Chapman from Saint Andrews Bureau advises on what the next year holds for the Cambridge market 48-56 • Interiors It’s a truism that kitchens sell homes, so if you’re thinking of making big changes, you need to make sure you get it right.

Emily Brooks speaks to the experts 59-60 • Gardening Adding summer-flowering bulbs to your garden this springtime is an easy way to get long-lasting blooms and colour. Neil Wormald shows you how 63 • Health Dr Mahmood Shafi discusses the main types of gynaecological cancer, highlighting the causes, risk factors, prevention and treatments available 65-66 • Education With the topic of internships and work experience becoming increasingly controversial, Charlotte Phillips investigates whether it’s all about who you know rather than what you know

future issues of the magazine? Head to our website, fill in the reader survey and you'll be in with a chance of winning more than £600 worth of goodies!

NICOLA FOLEY, EDITOR FOLLOW US ON twitter:

FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/ CambsEdition

@cambsedition

EDITORIAL

Contributors

Editor Nicola Foley 01223 499459 nicolafoley@bright-publishing.com

Alex Rushmer, Briony Whitehouse, Charlotte Griffiths, Charlotte Phillips, Emily Brooks, Esme Benjamin, Mahmood Shafi, Neil Wormald, Sian Townsend

Sub Editor Liz Greening lizgreening@bright-publishing.com

Advertising

Design & Production

Senior Sales Executive George Pearson 01223 499464 georgepearson@bright-publishing.com Sales Executive Veronica-Mia Anspach 01223 499461 veronicaanspach@bright-publishing.com

MARKETING

Marketing Manager Kelly Tarrant 01223 499450 kellytarrant@bright-publishing.com

Senior Designer Mark George 01223 499450 markgeorge@bright-publishing.com

publishing directors Andy Brogden & Matt Pluck 01223 499450

www.bright-publishing.com

CAMBRIDGE EDITION Magazine • Bright Publishing Ltd, Bright House, 82 High Street, Sawston, Cambridgeshire, CB22 3HJ 01223 499450, www.cambsedition.co.uk • All rights reserved. Material contained in this publication may not be reproduced, in whole or in part, without prior permission of the publishers. • Views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of Cambridge Edition or Bright Publishing Ltd, which do not accept any liability for loss or damage. • Every effort has been made to ensure all information is correct. • Cambridge Edition is a free publication that is circulated to selected postcodes in Cambridge and the surrounding area

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Cambridge Edition | March 2012 | 5

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news

Event Spotlight

Lodestar Festival Now entering its fourth year, Lodestar Festival is gearing up for another fun-packed three days of music and entertainment in the rolling countryside of rural Cambridgeshire.

The event, which takes place from 31 August to 1 September, features an exciting line-up of bands and DJs from across the musical spectrum, and varied fringe entertainment that includes burlesque, comedy and craft workshops.

Universally praised for its affordability (tickets start at just £21), and friendly vibe, Lodestar is pretty much the antithesis of the many jaw-droppingly expensive and commercialised festivals that litter the summer calendar – something that is crucially important to the team behind the event.

“It’s about being local and taking stock of what is on our doorstep in terms of food, entertainment and the environment,” says festival founder Doug Durrant. “Festival-goers, music-lovers, lovers of the environment and seekers of something new will all find Lodestar a great place to be. Our ethos is about bringing people together and giving them a really memorable and enjoyable experience.”

Music-wise, the line-up for 2012 is typically eclectic. Topping the bill on Friday night are The Go! Team, who will be joined by performances from the likes of up-and-coming Aussie outfit Last Dinosaurs, singer-songwriter Ryan Keen and local rockers Violet Bones.

Among the acts getting the crowds moving on Saturday will be feisty Norwegian girl group Katzenjammer, Mr Hudson’s newest incarnation BIGkids and the Luminites – a street band who blend acoustic guitar, human beat box, keys and vocal harmony. The big draw for

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Images

The Go! Team (pictured above), will be sharing Lodestar's stage with acts such as the legendary Bob Geldof (below), Katzenjammer (left), and street band Luminites (below left)

31 August - 2 September Saturday night however, is the man behind Live Aid, Sir Bob Geldof. Former Boomtown Rats frontman, singer, songwriter, author, actor, political activist, Nobel Peace Prize nominee and recipient of an honourary knighthood – Geldof will be performing hits from his vast back catalogue as well as material from his recently released fifth solo album, How To Compose Popular Songs That Will Sell. The Sunday, uniquely, offers an all-female line-up, showcasing the talents of artists including Michele Stodart, Karima Francis and Paper Aeroplanes.

It’s not all about the music though, there’s also going to be comedians, theatre, circus

performers, fire acts, burlesque, food from around the world, market stalls, zorbing, archery and five-a-side football too, plus nature walks with the RSPB and crafting with the National Trust. The chances of decent weather are pretty good too; with the carefully chosen date statistically representing one of the best weather weekends of the whole year. But come rain or shine, it looks set to be a great fun and great value event, featuring something for all tastes. Not to be missed.

Gates open at 10am on Friday and close at noon on Monday. To book tickets, visit www.lodestarfestival.com

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16/7/12 10:32:57

news

NEWS

Unmissable events in and around Cambridgeshire this August

Cambridge Shakespeare Festival

Newmarket Nights 2012 Always a highlight of the local events calendar, the popular Newmarket Nights series of concerts continues apace this month with appearances from two pop legends: Van ‘the man’ Morrison and Welsh crooner Tom Jones.

The concerts, which celebrated their 25th anniversary last year, offer guests the opportunity to experience the excitement of watching a fast-paced day of racing (and having a flutter or two), followed by a lively open air concert as dusk falls. Also taking to the stage this month will be Tom Jones’ The

Voice cohort Jessie J, as well as brilliantly cheesy pop group Steps.

If you fancy splashing out, why not opt for a hospitality ticket? This will enable you to enjoy the action on the track from the comfort of a stylishly kitted out trackside marquee, or perhaps indulge in a meal at either The Champions Gallery or The Summer House restaurants – the latter of which was voted the ‘Best Fine Dining Experience at a British Racecourse’ in 2010.

Adult tickets from £11, visit www.cambridgeshakespeare.com

www.newmarketracecourses.co.uk

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The Cambridge Shakespeare Festival continues this month with performances of four of the Bard’s greatest works, taking place at various Cambridge University colleges. The perfect accompaniment for a picnic on a summer’s evening, A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be playing in Trinity College Gardens from 30 July to 18 August, providing an unmissable opportunity to watch this magical story brought to life in a spectacularly beautiful setting.

Also between 30 July and 18 August, Robinson College will provide the backdrop to a production of Twelfth Night – a classic tale of ambition, unrequited love and exuberant pomposity. King’s College meanwhile, will be the setting for a fast-paced production of the great tragedy, King Lear. If you fancy a more light-hearted evening’s entertainment though, richly crafted romantic comedy, As You Like It, plays in Girton College’s idyllic grounds from 30 July to 25 August.

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news

Cambridge Shakespeare Festival This month will see the Cambridge Shakespeare Festival kick off its annual celebration of the works of the Bard with an eight-week season of productions, performed outdoors in the beautiful gardens of five of Cambridge University's colleges. Whilst pitching up with a picnic and watching a play at dusk in such idyllic locations is always a magical experience, 2012 promises to be extra special, since it marks a quarter of a century since the first Cambridge Shakespeare Festival.

Organisers expect to attract some 25,000 attendees overall for the productions, which this year will be Julius Caesar, The Tempest, The Merry Wives of Windsor, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Twelfth Night, King Lear and As You Like It – providing a wide selection of Shakespeare’s works, designed to appeal to as broad an audience as possible.

“We attract everyone from ‘hardcore’ theatre-goers to those who simply like the idea of sitting in a beautiful garden on a

summer’s evening to enjoy the pageantry of the spectacle,” says festival director David Crilly.

“But most satisfying is seeing the number of children and young people who attend – I'm a strong believer that Shakespeare’s work is to be seen, to be experienced, felt and touched.”

The festival has become increasingly high profile in recent years, attracting audiences from all over the world and being listed by The Independent as the 4th best Arts Festival in the UK – but the central ethos, to bring the works of Shakespeare to as wide an audience as possible, remains the same.

So what is David most excited about?

“I always look forward to the buzz of being able to move from venue to venue each evening, watching the performances unfold... There's nothing more satisfying than standing behind an audience, taking in the whole scene as the sun goes down."

Visit www. cambridgeshakespeare.com

Cambridge Comedy Festival

17-22 July

The Cambridge Comedy Festival returns between 17 and 22 July, once again offering the chance to see the best emerging and established standups on the circuit. The multi-venue festival comprises 40 shows, featuring performances from big name acts such as Phil Jupitus, Stephen K Amos and Richard Herring, all presenting previews of their new shows for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

With ticket prices starting at just £5, it’s a fantastic chance to see some great comedy in intimate venues at bargain prices.

For more info and the full line-up, visit www.cambridgecomedyfestival.com

19-22 July

Secret Garden Party Simply put, this festival is a party like no other. Taking place at Abbots Ripton (near Huntingdon) in acres of beautiful countryside that include a magically illuminated lake, picturesque landscaped gardens and a section of river, the Secret Garden Party oozes creativity and imagination from every pore. From the eclectic music (which this year includes the likes of Orbital, Kitty, Daisy & Lewis, Krafty Kuts and Adam F), to the outrageous costumes, processions and games, every corner yields a new surprise and the attention to detail is second to none. Unfortunately tickets for the event sold out some time ago, but if you like your parties hedonistic and colourful – make sure you pencil it in for next year.

For more information visit www.secretgardenparty.com

8 | Cambridge Edition | July 2012

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15/6/12 15:43:32

NEWS

WIN

DINNER FOR TWO AT THE MERRY MONK!

25 January

BURNS NIGHT Beat the January blues by donning a kilt and supping some single malt on Burns night, the perfect excuse to indulge in all things Scottish. We might be a fair distance from the lochs and bagpipes of our northern neighbours but there’s still some great options around. The Kingston Arms on Kingston Street serves a mean haggis, neeps and tatties, complemented, naturally, with a dram of whisky. Alternatively Loch Fyne will also be hosting a night of celebration, with classic Scottish meat and seafood dishes on offer. Just after the big night itself, the Cambridge Scottish Society will be holding its annual Burns night dinner on 28 January, complete with dancing, bagpipes and much whisky imbibing.

Visit www.camscotsoc.org.uk to find out more

TREASURES OF THE LIBRARY Booklovers: don’t miss your last chance to see the spectacular library collection housed at Anglesey Abbey in Lode this month. Since mid-November, guests have been invited to gain a rare insight into the collection (which totals more than 9000 books), as part of the Treasures of the Library exhibition. Widely regarded to be one of the most important collections in the care of the National Trust, you’ll have an opportunity to admire volumes dating back to the early 16th century, with highlights including Hortus Floridus, a work by 17th century engraver Crispin van de Passe and an edition of the Magna Carta printed in gold.

Treasures of the Library runs until 15 January.

Open 11am-3pm daily, see www.nationaltrust. org.uk/angleseyabbey

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This gem in the fens boasts roaring log fires, a cosy restaurant, bar area and a hearty menu full of seasonal classics.

Located in Isleham, head chef and owner Adrian Smith has created a pub that is comfortable and welcoming, while providing top-class service and imaginative food and drink offerings. To keep their menu seasonal and local the Merry Monk uses suppliers from East Anglia wherever possible; be it mussels from Brancaster or asparagus from the fields down the road. This month we’re giving away a meal for two with a bottle of wine at the Merry Monk. The lucky winners can choose between a selection of enticing dishes on the restaurant’s à la carte menu including king scallops and samphire, or pan-fried pigeon breast with candied beetroot to start, before tucking into dishes like the 12-hour roast lamb or cauliflower and fennel risotto with truffle oil. For details on how to win visit www.cambsedition.co.uk.

For more information on the Merry Monk visit www.merry-monk.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | January 2012 | 9

16/12/11 10:01:49

competitioN

a luxury spa break WIN! worth over £500!

Feel refreshed and revived with a fantastic one-night stay for two at the sumptuous Champneys Spa in Henlow, simply by telling your friends about The Edit... n November last year, Cambridge Edition magazine launched The Edit: a free of charge digital newsletter packed with insider information on the top local news and events, as well as exclusive money-off vouchers and competitions. Delivered to your email inbox at 11am every Friday morning, The Edit keeps you up-to-date with the cream of goingson around the county from theatre shows to festivals, club nights to community events, shopping and much more.

This month, we’re offering you the chance to win a fantastic luxury mini-break for two at the prestigious Champneys Spa in Henlow. All you have to do is sign up five of your friends to The Edit and you’ll automatically be entered into this amazing prize draw. The lucky winners will be treated to some first-

14 | Cambridge Edition | April 2012

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class pampering at the Bedfordshire-based bolt-hole, which is perfectly positioned amid beautiful rambling countryside. The stresses and strains of everyday life are sure to melt away as you enjoy an indulgent body massage and relaxing facial. You’ll tuck into some healthy but delicious food too, as well as being able to enjoy all the facilities including the swimming pool, whirlpool, sauna and steam rooms and, if you’re feeling a little more active, there are exercise and dance classes, plus tennis courts as well.

To be in with a chance of winning this prize, head to our website www.cambsedition.co.uk for more information.

For the latest special offers and packages at Champneys, call 0843 316 2222 or visit www.champneys.com

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9/3/12 11:02:32

news

VE EXCLUSI READER! OFFER

free ticket at thorpe Park! *

Images courtesy of THORPE PARK

THORPE PARK is celebrating the launch of its newest ride, THE SWARM by offering Cambridge Edition readers an exclusive special offer. Simply cut out the voucher below, present it on your visit and you'll be granted buy one, get one free entrance.

Located in Chertsey, Surrey, THORPE PARK is one of Europe’s premier theme parks, attracting millions of thrill-seekers from around the country each year with its first-class selection of adrenalin-pumping attractions.

In search of a hardcore thrill? Head over to the nerve-shredding 100ft ‘beyond vertical’ drop of the twisted horror-coaster, SAW – The Ride, or brace yourself for the rush of accelerating from 0-80mph in under two seconds on ultimate white-knuckle ride, Stealth. If you like your roller coasters big and bad, it’s got to be the ten-looping, stomachchurning madness of the epic Colossus.

Definitely not for the faint-hearted.

The hotly anticipated newest addition to the park is the UK’s first-ever winged roller coaster. THE SWARM takes riders on a gutwrenching flight at speeds of 100km an hour, drops 127ft and spins 180° before hurtling through the air on a purpose-built island and narrowly avoiding collisions with churches, helicopters and a plane wreckage. It’s the ultimate adrenalin fix for 2012.

Cut out the voucher below and take it along to the park on your chosen day. Visit www.cambsedition.co.uk for the full T&Cs

free ticket at THORPE PARK!*

*When accompanied by a full paying adult

www.cambsedition.co.uk

*If the holder of this voucher buys a fully priced adult ticket to THORPE PARK, then s/he may take with her/him one other person who will enter THORPE PARK on the same day free of charge. Visitors under 12 years must be accompanied by a person 16 years of age or over. Visitors under one metre in height enter the parks free of charge. Only one voucher per person and per transaction. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offers. Voucher must be surrendered. Photocopies not accepted.

Restrictions apply to certain rides and attractions. This voucher is valid until 25 October 2012.

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Cambridge Edition | August 2012 | 13

16/7/12 12:14:38

EATING IN WORDS ALEX RUSHMER IMAGES CHARLOTTE GRIFFITHS

FAR EAST FEAST Forget detoxing and denying yourself, blast the January blues away with some big, brash flavours

OR MANY, the chief problem with indulgence is that it is invariably followed by guilt.

And the more wanton and protracted the extravagance, the more crushing and lengthy the melancholy that follows. In the case of Christmas it begins with a fuzzy head on New Year’s Day and tends to hang around like an unpleasant smell until well into March when the burgeoning signs of spring start to blast the depression from the walls of your soul with the effectiveness of a menthol enema.

The most common antidote to overindulgence is temperance and denial, often bordering on a level of asceticism that would shame the Buddha himself. Indeed a whole industry has, over the last decade, grown up and cashed in on our collective hangover.

Despite protestations from bona fide medical doctors, a raft of charlatans and quacks have commandeered the concept of a ‘detox’ and applied it successfully to a concept that has no basis in biological or physiological reality unless you are suffering from an actual addiction and going through the agony of cold turkey. And we’ve all had enough of that by the time New Year comes round, thank you very much.

So if strict puritan denial isn’t the solution to blowing away the January blues, what is?

For an answer we should turn once again to the Far East for inspiration and in the words of Siddhartha Gautama, a middle way – a perfectly acceptable path that is neither gluttonous nor abstemious but merely sensible and packed full of delicious food that won’t add to the winter jacket but also promises not to make any claims about its virtuous nature, its antioxidant content or how ‘as part of a calorie controlled diet’ this product may aid weight loss.

The secret to making the sensible taste exquisite lies in creating big, brash flavours that approach with all the subtlety of a Russian oligarch with a new Ferrari and play a game of British Bulldog on the tongue. The cuisines to look to are principally Thai and Vietnamese where light foods are emboldened by a solid ‘sweet’, ‘sour’, ‘salty’ and ‘spicy’ philosophy, the combination of which somehow makes even the most delicate of preparations taste belly-rubbingly satisfying without leaving you in need of a little snooze.

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Pho, the unofficial national dish of Vietnam is a prime example. Ostensibly just noodles cooked in beef or pork broth, it takes on an entirely new personality when pepped up with limes, chilli and fish sauce, so much so that it is admired with an enthusiasm bordering on the religious by aficionados: both Rick Stein and food writer Anthony Bourdain count pho among their absolute favourite dishes and willfully travel across the world to Saigon, the dish’s spiritual capital, to get their fix. Perhaps that's taking things a little too far – some good stock, rice noodles and a selection of accompaniments including Thai basil, beansprouts, spring onions and coriander

should be enough to create a reasonable approximation in your own kitchen.

Similarly, Som Tam, a Thai hot and sour salad, is a great way to learn how to blend these flavours. Although it is traditionally made with unripe green papaya – try Cho Mee on Mill Road – cucumber is a more than adequate, and equally virtuous, substitute.

Turn to p. 17 for Alex’s hot and sour Thai salad– light, tasty and bursting with flavour

IMAGES: Vietnam's

speciality dish Pho is a flavoursome and nutritious noodle soup brimming with fresh ingredients

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16/12/11 09:14:20

eating in WORDS alex rushmer

RETURN OF THE SUET PUD

To the delight of many, the British invention of suet is making a very welcome return to our dining tables, in both its savoury and sweet form

pril has the cruelest reputation. It is one etched in drizzle and confirmed in cloud. A month of flat landscapes and grey skies. It is transitionary but unpredictable – making it a frustrating time to cook. This time last year I spent a lazy day lying in the sunshine with the barbecue gently smouldering away and transforming an entire shoulder of pork into a mass of richly tender smoky meat. Two years prior to that, almost to the day, it was savagely cold: I had just moved back to Cambridge after a few years away and was welcomed by

images: Suet is now the nouvelle vague of modern British cuisine – a realisation that the sorts of food we used to eat were really rather good for us

a generous snowfall. A broken boiler in our new house made the Easter weekend all the more challenging and we dined on takeaway pizza wearing almost all the clothes we owned. This crude cross section of memories has left me in a quandary over what to write about this month but after a few days wrangling, we have a winner, a wondrous and worthy winner, and that is suet. A few years ago the very word would be enough to make people blanch and as an ingredient it seriously

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fell out of favour both with home cooks and chefs. The dense creations of yesteryear – jam roly poly, spotted dick and steamed puddings – became little more than culinary punch lines as increasing attention was paid to what we ate, how much of it we consumed and what it was doing to us.

But as part of the nouvelle vague of modern British cooking - which is little more than a realisation that the sorts of food we used to eat were really rather good and deserve to be celebrated as they are in Italy or France rather than confined to the great cookbook in the sky – suet is making a strong comeback and I, for one, am delighted despite being a recent convert to its charms (the blame for which I lay squarely at the feet of my father who still refuses to touch the stuff after being fed it at school).

It is a truly versatile ingredient and one that chimes neatly with the current fashion for nostalgic cuisine. A suet dumpling gently bobbing in a rich meaty stew is a fine thing indeed, especially when bloated with gravy, aromatic with herbs and densely chewy within.

A vegetarian alternative can be made and flavoured with black pepper and chopped dill which makes a wonderful addition to a bubbling beetrooty borscht. But the finest application is surely the steamed pudding, a wonderfully British invention that nourishes the soul as well as the belly whether in its sweet or savoury form and is always a sell out whenever it graces the menu at The Hole in the Wall.

The current incarnation is a braised beef cheek and mushroom steamed pudding which forms part of our ‘beef for two’ dish along with a hefty steak and numerous sides. But it is our take on the classic rhubarb and custard that I want to share with you this month – sour rhubarb steamed with butter and sugar inside a delicious suet pastry.

To cook Alex’s tasty steamed rhubarb pudding turn to page 22

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food WORDS alex rushmer imageS charlotte griffiths

Alex’s recipeS

alfresco bites Simple and tasty, these three super-quick recipes add modern twists to more traditional fare. Team them with popular favourites for the best of both worlds

Ingredients

Smoked Paprika Popcorn You simply cannot go wrong with popcorn, it is a real crowd-pleaser and, perhaps even more importantly, incredibly light meaning it can be transported in vast quantities. I’ve not specified exact quantities here as the recipe can be scaled up or down and spiced to your own taste.

5

minutes cook time

Popping corn kernels Sunflower oil – enough to lightly coat the corn kernels Sweet smoked paprika (about a teaspoon for every 100g corn), plus a little extra Hot paprika Onion salt Table salt Caster sugar Aromat seasoning powder (optional) One lime

Step-By-Step Guide Add the popping corn to a saucepan so it covers the base of the pan in a single layer and coat with the sunflower oil. Season with salt and cover the pan with a lid and place over a medium heat. Shake the pan regularly to ensure all the corn is popped.

Pour into a large bowl and add the spices, mixing well. Taste it regularly and tweak the flavours to suit your taste. Finish with a squeeze of lime just before serving.

Best prepared in large quantities – you don't want to disappoint your picnickers.

You simply cannot go wrong with these crowdpleasers. Plus they're all more assembly jobs than real recipes 34 | Cambridge Edition | August 2012

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13/7/12 11:44:51

food

Crayfish Skagen A real favourite with our diners and a lovely light and summery dish.

Ingredients 500g crayfish tales in brine, drained and lightly dried

1 bunch of dill, finely chopped

500g crème fraiche

Zest and juice of half a lemon

1 tablespoon mayonnaise

Plenty of black pepper

½ red onion, very finely diced

Step-By-Step Guide Mix all the ingredients together and serve on toast with slices of hard boiled egg. Next step? Tuck in!

5

minutes prep time

Eton Mess Again, more of an assembly job than a recipe, this is easy to prepare and great to take on picnics for a sweet treat. For a boozy addition macerate the strawberries in Pedro Ximénez, a sticky sweet sherry from Jerez.

Ingredients 200g meringue, broken into pieces 450ml double cream Two tablespoons icing sugar Seeds from one vanilla pod As many fresh strawberries as you wish 100ml Pedro Ximénez sherry One punnet of raspberries

Step-By-Step Guide

5

minutes prep time

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Hull and halve the strawberries then pour over the Pedro Ximénez sherry. Let them macerate for 24 hours.

Whip the cream until it begins to thicken then add the icing sugar and the vanilla seeds.

Continue whipping until it thickens enough to spoon into mounds that stand up.

Mix together the meringue pieces, sweetened cream, fresh raspberries and macerated strawberries. Eat with gusto at the earliest possible opportunity.

Cambridge Edition | August 2012 | 35

13/7/12 11:44:59

EATING OUT WORDS SIAN TOWNSEND

FIVE OF THE BEST Healthy dining options

Don’t hibernate just because you’re on a mission to lose a few pounds this month; there’s plenty of healthy options on offer in Cambridgeshire which mean you can eat out without breaking your diet. Here’s our pick of the best…

BILL’S Though relatively new to the Cambridge restaurant scene, this joint is fast making a name for itself as the perfect brunch spot for those in the know. The menu has a fair few delicious but definitely non-diet-friendly favourites to tempt you, but equally there are tasty and wholesome options available too. For brunch go for a large Bill’s raspberry, peach and mango juice – which gives you a hefty contribution towards your five a day – with the grilled vine tomatoes with pesto on a toasted ciabatta to eat. Or opt for one of the many egg on toast variations (but specify no butter and definitely no hollandaise sauce!). If you pop along later in the day, then the chargrilled chicken with couscous is filling and flavoursome – the perfect diet combo.

Bill’s is fast making a name for itself as the perfect brunch spot

34-35 Green Street, Cambridge CB2 3JX 01223 329638, www.bills-website.co.uk

JAPAS SUSHI You might think it’s all healthy when it comes to sushi, but in actual fact you still need to have your wits about you and choose wisely.

Generally speaking sashimi is what you’re after, and this bright-yellow sushi bar off Lensfield Road has a great selection. A couple could easily share the Nami Sashimi (that’s number 148 on the menu), a 12piece assortment of salmon, tuna, sea bass and octopus.

Add a nigiri or two for a bit of rice but steer clear of anything deep-fried. Handily Japas also delivers (within two miles) on all orders over £15 so come Friday night, it’s an ideal guilt-free takeaway option.

9 Saxon Street, Cambridge CB2 1HN 01223 365321, www.japassushi.co.uk

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Japas Sushi is an ideal guilt-free takeaway option for a Friday night

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16/12/11 10:18:28

EATING OUT

RAINBOW CAFÉ Many January detox diets call for a vegetarian lifestyle and so finding options that aren’t limited to nut roast and soup is vital. Luckily we have an excellent dedicated vegetarian-only restaurant right on our doorstep: the award-winning Rainbow Café on King’s Parade serves up delicious veggie and vegan treats all day, every day, also specialising in gluten-free options. The gado-gado is rumoured to be Gillian McKeith’s favourite dish and so you can guarantee tiptop health credentials. It’s a dish of crisp julienne vegetables with brown rice and a selection of side sauces including a peanut satay option.

This café specialises in veggie, vegan and gluten-free options

9a King’s Parade, Cambridge CB2 1SJ 01223 321551, www.rainbowcafe.co.uk

PEKING RESTAURANT

Choose wisely and Chinese food can actually be very healthy

We all realise that tucking into duck pancakes and sweet and sour chicken won’t result in a svelte silhouette but choose very carefully and Chinese food can actually be much more healthy than you might think. Family-run Peking Restaurant, which is just off Hills Road on Homerton Street, serves a delicious whole steamed sea bass with spring onions that wouldn’t pass for your average diet dish, but is a definite healthy option. You could even indulge in some aubergine with hot bean sauce and some boiled rice for a Chinese feast that won’t break the calorie bank this New Year.

Plus it’s good to know that everything at Peking Restaurant is homemade and so you won’t find any nasty preservatives hiding in their dishes.

10 Homerton Street, Cambridge CB2 8NX, 01223 245457

The delicious Bento meals at Teri-Aki are guaranteed to hit the spot if you’re feeling peckish: served with rice, salad and Miso soup they have all you need for a hearty but healthy meal. The stir-fried beef, chicken and seafood is the best option on the menu if you are dieting but the other chargrilled options would still be on the healthy side if you fancy a bit of a treat. If you’re going for an evening meal then a starter of steamed edamame beans (steamed soya beans) followed by the Yasai Ramen soup noodles would be a great combo. Plus there’s a fresh fruit salad option for dessert if you want the full three courses without the guilt. Sister restaurant Aki-Teri next door has also just introduced a dim sum menu at the weekends where you can get a dim sum buffet for £12 between 12noon and 4pm. Go for the steamed options and you can tuck in.

6-8 Quayside, Cambridge CB5 8AB, 01223 882288, www.teri-aki.co.uk

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Image courtesy of www.missigs.blogspot.com

TERI-AKI, QUAYSIDE

The delicious Bento meals at Teri-Aki are guaranteed to hit the spot

Cambridge Edition | January 2012 | 21

16/12/11 10:18:36

LISTINGS

What’s on A round-up of events around Cambridgeshire for May 1 May

CREATIVE WRITING WORKSHOP Time: 7-9pm Location: Waterbeach Primary School Price: £5 Description: A monthly creative writing workshop where you can join like-minded others in fun writing exercises to get your brain working and your creativity flowing! (includes refreshments) thelivingmuseum.co.uk

1-5 May

RICHARD II Time: 7.45 & Sat 2.30pm Location: ADC theatre Price: Tue & Wed £8/£6, Thu-Sat £10/£8 Description: Cambridge University Amateur Dramatic Club presents Shakespeare’s epic tale – a mesmerising and enthralling beginning to Shakespeare’s history plays. adctheatre.com

1-5 May

THE LADY IN THE VAN Time: 7.45pm, Thurs & Sat 2.30pm Location: Cambridge Arts Theatre Price: £15/£21/£25/£27 Description: The story of Miss Shepherd – who parked her van in Alan Bennett’s back garden and refused to leave for 15 years – in a beautifully observed, hilarious and poignant drama by one of the nation’s best-loved playwrights. cambridgeartstheatre.com

MAY

MAY

LADYHAWKE

7 May

REACH FAIR RIDE Time: 9am Location: Starts at the Guildhall, Market Square Price: Free Description: A leisurely free bike ride from Cambridge to the village of Reach for the historic village fair, which last year attracted almost 400 cyclists (follows National Cycle Network Routes 51 and 11). camcycle.org.uk

7-12 May

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SPAMALOT Time: 7.30pm, Weds & Sat 2.30pm Location: Cambridge Corn Exchange Price: Tickets from £24.50 Description: Written by Eric Idle and John Du Prez, this fantastically irreverent parody of the legend of King Arthur has won multiple Tony Awards and delighted audiences the world over. cornex.co.uk

Time: Doors 7pm Location: Junction, J1 Price: £14 adv Description: The talented singer-songwriter will play hits from her debut album including My Delirium, Dusk ‘til Dawn and Paris is Burning, as well as showcasing material from her new album, Anxiety. junction.co.uk

7-12 May

BAREFOOT IN THE PARK Time: 7.45pm, Thurs & Sat 2.30pm Location: Cambridge Arts Theatre Price: £15/£20/£25/£30 Description: Neil Simon’s Tony Award-winning play, starring Maureen Lipman, tells the story of newlyweds Corrie and Paul and their unusual neighbours. cambridgeartstheatre.com

PROFESSOR GREEN

PAUL MERTON: OUT OF MY HEAD

Time: 7.30pm Location: Cambridge Corn Exchange Price: £18.50 + booking fee Description: The cheeky Brit rapper rocks up to the Corn Exchange to perform hits including I Need You Tonight, Just Be Good To Green, Monster and Jungle. cornex.co.uk

Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Corn Exchange Price: £23 + concessions Description: Breaking out from the Have I got News For You desk, Paul Merton returns to his stand-up roots for the first time this century, exploring the bizarre workings of his brain. cornex.co.uk

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11 May

JESTERLARF COMEDY CLUB MAY Time: Doors 7.30pm Location: Junction, J2 Price: £12 adv Description: The Jesterlarf Comedy Club returns once again for its monthly residency, presenting the very best comedians from the UK’s comedy club circuit. Michael Smiley is back and mixes physical comedy and razor-sharp observations.

Limited cabaret table seating available for bookings of six or more people. junction.co.uk

12 May

CITY OF CAMBRIDGE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Time: 7.30pm Location: West Road Concert Hall Price: £18, conc £16, student £8 and under 14s £5 Description: A special concert in aid of CamSight, featuring pieces such as Beethoven’s Piano Concerto no 5, Tchaikovsky’s Symphony no 5 and the Academic Festival Overture by Brahms. Clare Hammond plays piano. westroad.org

5 MAY

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13/4/12 12:35:14

LISTINGS

Images from left to right:

Take part in a leisurely free bike ride from Cambridge to the village of Reach for its historic village fair, learn about wedding floristry at the Botanic Gardens on 22/23 May or enjoy the aerial displays at The Jubilee Air Show on 27 May at Duxford Museum

16 May

BUTCHERY MASTERCLASS Time: 7-9.30pm Location: Cambridge Cookery School, Purbeck Road Price: £95 Description: As we get ready for the barbeque season, head butcher Miles Nichols guides you through the best cuts whilst Tine Roche prepares some delicious sauces and marinades to accompany them. cambridgecookeryschool.com

13 MAY

THE OWL AND THE PUSSYCAT Time: 11.30am & 2.30pm Location: Junction, J2 Price: £9, cons £5, £23 per group of 4 (max 2 adults) Description: Silly songs, puppetry, live music and beautiful storytelling combine in this enchanting retelling of Lear’s classic poem by Hiccup Theatre. junction.co.uk

17 May

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY JAZZ ORCHESTRA Time: 8pm Location: West Road Concert Hall Price: £10, students £5 Description: Featuring original compositions and arrangements

by Stan Sulzmann. westroad.org

SHOWSTOPPER! THE IMPROVISED MUSICAL Time: 7.30pm Location: Mumford Theatre Price: £11.50, cons £8.50 Description: A high-energy show created completely from scratch on the night, furiously ad-libbed by the all-singing, all-dancing cast – with a little input from the audience. anglia.ac.uk

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Time: 8pm Location: Cambridge Corn Exchange Price: £25 Description: A-laugh-aminute show packed with witty one-liners, stories and jokes: some clever, some rude and doubtless a few totally unacceptable… cornex.com

MAY

19 May

MAY CELEBRATION AND TREE FESTIVAL Time: 11am-4pm Location: Wandlebury Country Park Price: Free Description: Pack a picnic and head along to Wandlebury this month for a May celebration of spring, trees and traditional activities. See the heavy horse at work, watch the skills of traditional craftsmen, and be entertained by Maypole dancing. events.cambridgeppf.org

20 May

CAMBRIDGE CURIOSITY AND IMAGINATION FAMILY WORKSHOP Time: 2-4pm Location: Kettles Yard Price: Adults £5, children £2 Description: A creative workshop led by Helen Stratford and Caroline Wedling, responding to the gallery’s exhibition, Alfred Wallis: Ships and Boats. kettlesyard.co.uk

26 May

22-23 May

SUMMER WEDDING FLOWERS Time: 10am-4pm Location: Botanic Gardens Price: £105 Description: A two-day course in wedding floristry designed to take you through the basic floristry skills needed to create your own buttonholes, pew ends, corsages, hand-tied posies and more. botanic.cam.ac.uk

22-26 May

WAITING FOR GODOT Time: 7.45pm Location: ADC theatre Price: Tue & Wed £8/£6, Thu-Sat £10/£8 Description: Fletcher Players present Samuel Beckett’s absurdist play in which Vladimir and Estragon wait endlessly and in vain for the elusive Godot to make an appearance… adctheatre.com

21-26 May

CAMBRIDGE BEER FESTIVAL Time: Opening times vary Location: Jesus Green Price: Entry from £2.50 Description: First held in 1974, the Cambridge Beer Festival is now the largest regional beer festival in the UK and features a wide range of local and national beers of all styles, as well as cider, perry, mead, wine, and bottled and draft beers from around the world. cambridgebeerfestival.com

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26 May

JIMMY CARR: GAGGING ORDER

CLAY OVEN COURSE Time: 10am-3.30pm Location: Wandlebury Country Park Price: £90 Description: Learn to build your own clay oven and experience the fantastic taste of genuine outdoor cooking. events.cambridgeppf.org

27 May

THE JUBILEE AIR SHOW Time: Open 8am-6pm.

Flying display 2-5pm Location: Duxford Imperial War Museum Price: £10.80 Description: Celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in style, The Jubilee Air Show brings together historic and contemporary aircraft from the past 60 years and beyond. Enjoy a flying display fit for royalty. iwm.org.uk

GARY NUMAN: MUSIC MACHINE TOUR Time: Doors 7pm Location: Junction, J1 Price: £25 adv Description: Synth pop pioneer Gary Numan returns to The Junction for a best of set to celebrate the release of his new DVD Machine Music: The Best Of Gary Numan (released 11 June). junction.co.uk

30 MAY

13/4/12 12:35:28

INTERview WORDS STEPHEN MILTON

Going it alone As comedy giant Stephen Merchant embarks on his first ever stand-up tour, he reflects on life after The Office, performing solo and his inability to find a wife...

rom serenading Robert De Niro to starring in films alongside Hollywood heavyweights, Stephen Merchant is tentatively emerging from the shadow of his sidekick Ricky Gervais: long-term collaborator, friend and (let’s be honest here) almighty spotlight hogger.

In fact, Merchant, 36, is a man with a lot on his plate right now. What with promoting two new TV series (a second season of the Karl Pilkington-starring An Idiot Abroad and BBC ‘mockumentary’, Life’s Too Short), his first UK tour, Hello Ladies, as well as an ever-increasing number of Hollywood commitments, Merchant confesses he’s a tad stretched. Happily though, rather than churning out the usual PR-approved drivel of ‘just being so grateful to be working’, he offers up a refreshingly honest response.

“I’m cracking up,” he tells us, en route to a live date in St Albans. “I’m serious. Why didn’t I plan my schedule better? I’m having a nervous

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breakdown. I swear, after I’m done with this interview, I’ll start rocking back and forth in the car, burbling incoherently. And then we’ll get to the venue and they’ll fill me up with cocaine and coffee and throw me out on stage. That’s pretty much my nightly routine for this tour.

And then I’ve got the commitments to the TV shows and we’re writing some new material.

After all this, I’ll be very surprised if I don’t die fat and bloated by Christmas, eating burgers on the toilet like Elvis.”

Best known for the creative partnership with Ricky Gervais which bore televisual icons The Office and Extras, Merchant may be highly regarded in the comedy world, but he’s left it until now to finally go it alone on the stand-up circuit. “I used to do stand-up in university before I moved to London. I was never professional but I used to do paid gigs... but the TV stuff became more important so I knocked it on the head.”

In his show Hello Ladies, (which visits Cambridge this month) Merchant chronicles

his calamitous love life and quest to find a wife. “The thing I find most amusing in life is romantic misfortune. You’re with your friends and one of them is telling you about a terrible date the previous night – you’re all leaning forward, no one’s going to the toilet in that moment. There’s a natural voyeuristic impulse to hear about bad dates and peoples’ love lives and when you make comedy about it, it’s funny because everyone understands the emotions.

So that’s the sort of thread going through the show – and my failure to find a wife.”

Merchant is definite when quizzed on whether there are any love interests at the moment, responding flatly with a simple “No,” adding that if there were, it would defeat the subject matter of the show somewhat. Having worked so closely with Gervais for so long, does it seem strange to be performing solo?

Or is this tour part of an intentional ploy to get some much needed time in the spotlight?

“Firstly, I’m nowhere near as organised and calculated as that. I wish I was; I wish I could have broken away from Ricky years ago,” he chuckles. “But no, it’s not like that with him. We see so much of the other anyway, so naturally we like to take a break. It’s more like brothers; we’re like brothers running a small business together. You see each other at work and work-related events, and maybe at Christmas, but then you have your own lives away from the factory. And like brothers, we’d most likely kill each other if we spent more time together than we already do.

"The tour is a chance to do something that I loved doing years ago, before I started riding Ricky's coattails. And if it helps me find a wife in the process, more's the better."

I'll start rocking back and forth... burbling incoherently. And then we'll get to the venue and they'll fill me up with cocaine and coffee and throw me on stage cambSedition.co.uk

6/10/11 15:04:40

INTERVIEW

After the unparalleled success of The Office and follow-up series Extras, Merchant has landed several high profile Hollywood roles, such as in Tooth Fairy – opposite Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson – and Hall Pass, where critics agreed that he stole the movie from stars Owen Wilson and Jason Sudeikis. “That’s because, I did,” he says, deadpan.

A voice-over performance in Elton John project Gnomeo & Juliet saw Merchant, at one stage, claiming ownership of the top two spots in the US box office. “Hall Pass was number one, Gnomeo & Juliet was two and as far as I was aware, I was the only link between both movies. I was the biggest box office draw that weekend. So Steven Spielberg better get calling before my rates sky-rocket.”

Stephen will bring Hello Ladies to the Cambridge Corn Exchange on 6 November, giving him a chance to experience a taste of what could have been if his academic ambitions had been realised. “I was always keen to go to Cambridge University as I was very fond of John Cleese and the Footlights people. But my teachers assured me I had not a chance in hell of getting into Cambridge and that I should apply to Oxford, which I also failed to get into... So in many ways, it’s my first opportunity to go to Cambridge, for the first time since I was a kid. And it’ll be great as I’ll be following in the footsteps of John Cleese and so many others.”

A decade on since we were introduced to the cringe-inducing genius of David Brent and his motley crew at Wernham Hogg, Merchant is still amazed by its success. “I remember saying to Ricky that if we got more than a million viewers saying it was their favourite

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show, we’d be more than happy with that. But we never anticipated it taking off like it did.”

Having aired in over 80 countries and with versions in the US, France, Germany and Brazil, The Office is one of the most successful British comedy exports of all time – yet Merchant has been quoted as describing the show as “Frankenstein's monster”. It’s difficult to work out whether he meant he’s lost his connection with the show, dislikes what it’s become, or simply believes the series has taken on a life of its own. A bit of all three perhaps?

“The Office is off out in the world, doing its thing and I couldn’t be happier, so the Frankenstein thing probably wasn’t the best description," he says. "There are all these international versions popping up now. I know there’s a Chilean version and an Argentinean one, an Israeli one. Actually, a Japanese version is one I’d love to see, where everybody does a bloody day’s good work and goes home, I think that’d be marvellous…”

Looking back over his career, what does Merchant remember most fondly or regard as his highest point? “The Office was our first

big success so that’ll always be my proudest achievement. But personal victories along the way, I have weird ones, like doing this improvised scene with Robert De Niro for Extras. I’m sat opposite him – and I don’t think this even made it into the finished episode – but I’m related to one of the members of Bananarama, and I don't know what came over me but I started singing Robert De Niro’s Waiting. And he starts looking at me peculiarly, and I ask him, ‘Do you know that song?’ A blank stare came back at me... such a bizarre little incident... I’m probably the only person who’s ever going to appreciate that.”

Stephen plays at Cambridge Corn Exchange on 6 November. Hello Ladies the DVD is available from 14 November.

Stephen's new show, Hello Ladies, details his unluckiness in love and takes a voyeuristic look at the lengths men are unfairly made to go to on first dates

Cambridge Edition | November 2011 | 13

7/10/11 10:58:08

FATHER'S day

17

Cotswold Trading Roberts Vintage Digital Radio £120

JUNE

Don’t forget!

Ellie Ellie Personalised Scrabble card £7.50

Father’s Day

GIFT IDEAS Dads are notoriously tricky to buy for, but any of these quirky pressies are guaranteed to raise a smile

RUME Gear Robot £149

Rume Moustache Mug And Bowler Hat Sugar Bowl £14 EACH

John Lewis Super Dad Gingerbread £3

The Contemporary Home Black Retro Dreyfuss Phone £49.99

Bombus Ltd Dad Bespoke Map Letters £39

not on the high street Pottering in the shed sign £8.99

Penhaligon’s Eau de Cologne 100ml £110

The Contemporary Home Album Record Cover Frames £10.99 each

36 | Cambridge Edition | June 2012

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14/5/12 11:54:08

mother's day

Roberts Radio Revival DAB Cath Kidston Limited Edition Range £200

Nelly Pepper Limited Owl Cushion £13.95 Paperchase Cambridge Satchel Company 11 Inch Satchel £98

Dotcomgiftshop Pantry Design Jam Making Kit With Jars £9.95

18 MARCH

GettingPersonal.co.uk Blissful Rest... Float On! Hand Poured Candle £8.99

Mother’s Day Gift IDEAS

Dotcomgiftshop Regency THREE-Tier Cakestand £29.95

Got the best mum in the world? Let her know how special she is with these gorgeous pressies…

John Lewis Disaster Designs Songbird Wallet £30

Help us raise funds for the Rosie at www.justgiving.com/cambridge-edition

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M&S Geisha Teacup & Saucer £7.50

M&S decorative planter £15

Cambridge Edition | March 2012 | 29

10/2/12 10:27:13

competitioN

WIN!

£300 worth of ECCO vouchers!

We are celebrating the fifth birthday of ECCO in Cambridge by giving away £300 to spend in-store, head to www.cambsedition.co.uk to enter! his month we’ve teamed up with shoe retailer ECCO to give away a fantastic £300 worth of vouchers to spend at its Cambridge branch.

Catering for both men and women, Danish company ECCO is known for the quality of its footwear and focus on exceptional comfort, perfect fit and commitment to utilising new technology to create the best possible products.

As well as being able to choose their favourites from ECCO’s wide range of casual and formal footwear, the lucky winner of

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our competition will also have their pick of the extensive range of bags and accessories at the Green Street store – which has recently celebrated its fifth birthday.

To be in with a chance of winning, head to our website at www.cambsedition.co.uk For more information on ECCO, visit www.ecconet.co.uk You can find the Cambridge branch of ECCO at 28 Green Street, Cambridge; telephone 01223 367768

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14/5/12 14:31:14

PICNIC

Main image courtesy of Charlotte Griffiths

1

GET KIT T OUT forED summe r fun!

2

PICNIC

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4

Make the most out of sunny days with these stylish alfresco dining accessories

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1. Beach Lantern £11.50 Lily and Lime (www.lilyandlime.co.uk)

5. Mini Lanterns £4.95 (each) Nordic House Ltd (www.nordichouse.co.uk)

2. Kissing Stags Picnic Blanket £36 Baker and Bell (www.bakerandbell.com)

6. Bird Plate By Ingela £7.75 Hunkydory Home (www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk)

3. Bleached Flowers Two Person Picnic Hamper £85 Cath Kidston (www.cathkidston.co.uk)

7. Fouta Honeycomb in Turquoise & Pearl Grey £35 Febronie (www.febronie.com)

4. Set of Three Multicoloured Wine Glasses £17.50 Birdie and Wood (www.birdieandwood.co.uk)

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8. Thermos Flask In Albertus Print £20 (each) Berry Red (www.berryred.co.uk) 9. Candy Coloured Set Of 4 Bowls £13.50 Leekes (www.leekes.co.uk)

Cambridge Edition | August 2012 | 37

13/7/12 11:25:40

cycling

he find t ct perfe o bike t our suit y s! need

WORDS Nicola foley

ON YOUR BIKE

If Cantabrigians know how to do anything, it’s cycling. So, this month we’re rounding up the best of the bunch, whatever you use your trusty two-wheeler for. Warning, may induce bike envy…

Best for Leisure A quintessentially English bicycle, the beautiful Pashley Princess Sovereign boasts a classic elegance and impeccable build quality coupled with cutting-edge componentry, making for a smooth, low maintenance ride. £645, Ben Hayward Cycles www.benhaywardcycles.co.uk

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Best for Adventures The lightweight Whyte Malvern dual sport adventure bike is loaded with unique design features and little touches which create a ridefeel that is second to none. This one is perfect for speeding through country lanes and tearing up rough trails. £665, Ben Hayward Cycles www.benhaywardcycles.co.uk

Best for Shopping This retro chic seventies-inspired Bobbin Shopper is compact, nippy, has a low centre of gravity and is available in a range of eyecatching colours. The neat little basket and rear pannier rack make it perfect for zipping around town on a shopping trip. £290, Bells Bicycles www.bellsbicycles.co.uk

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15/6/12 15:48:35

cycling

Best for Posing FINISH

The jaunty and colourful Bobbin ‘Birdie’ (left) is an attention seeker of a bike and no mistake. But it’s not just pretty, it’s also surprisingly lightweight, practical and a dream to ride. Take this for a spin and you’ll be earning admiring glances left, right and centre. £359, Station Cycles www.stationcycles.co.uk 4

3

Best for family The Bakfiets long 2 wheeled Cargobike (above) has room for up to three kids, as well as space for your shopping or picnic.

It’s sturdy, reliable and super safe too – and if you need a bit of extra juice, there’s also an electric assist version available.

From £1640 Cambridge Dutchbikes www.dutchbike.co.uk

2

START

1

My favourite ride Rob Turner from Ben Hayward Cycles describes the picturesque route from Jesus Green to Clayhithe

Best for Commuting All Brompton folding bicycles are built from scratch to the customer’s specification, with each and every one offering a finely engineered, super lightweight and agile bike which can be compactly stored and carried when not in use. (M6L Yellow Folding Bike pictured above) www.brompton.co.uk

Starting at Jesus Green, head down to the River Cam, going east along the river edge cycle path and continue along the riverside, over the cattle grid onto Stourbridge Common 1 Turn left over the Green Dragon Bridge 2 crossing the river to Chesterton and immediately right following the course of the Cam by road. Then after 300 yards, head down to the waters edge along the tow path. Under the railway bridge you'll catch lovely views over Ditton Meadows to the church at Fen Ditton. Under the roar of the A14 3 look out for Biggin Abbey south of the river then to Baits Bite Lock and the village of Horningsea 4 Head back along the trail, past the church to the right with the route to Milton to the left. As I approach Clayhithe, the bridge sweeps above, up and over to the Bridge Hotel where I enjoy a well-deserved pint sitting by the riverside...

Top 3 Maintenance Tips Hugh Salt from Cambridge Dutchbikes offers cyclists advice on taking care of their bike 1) Buy the best tyres within your budget – there are lots of puncture protected and puncture proof ones and they are well worth the extra money. Keep them pumped up to the recommended pressure as low pressures will give more punctures, wreck the tyre and take a lot more effort to pedal.

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2) Make sure cables are adjusted properly, have neat runs on the frame with no sharp bends and are well secured. Even stainless steel cables need lubrication regularly and a plug of white vaseline at each end will stop the water getting in.

3) Check the spokes regularly – a wobbly wheel usually means loose or broken spokes which need attention immediately and cost very little compared with a replacement wheel.

Cambridge Edition | July 2012 | 41

15/6/12 15:50:38

motoring WORDS sue baker

Motoring Review

Hot hatch heaven

If you're on the hunt for a new car with more performance than your average hatchback, then look no further than these small, sporty, yet practical models that really pack a punch topwatch at the ready. Competitive spirit engaged. This is a summer for enjoying athleticism. Amid the glow of London 2012, effort and achievement is the golden topic of the moment. So in the spirit of Olympian pace, I’m putting my foot down hard against the clock.

Well sorry, but we cannot all aspire to gold medal greatness, and anyway some of us prefer to do our sprinting sitting down. Welcome to the competitive world of rapid cars as we embark on a race towards hot hatch heaven.

Flex those muscles – mechanical ones, that is. All these cars are something a bit special. These are small, swift, well-equipped cars for enthusiastic drivers. They all share a common goal: packing a big

Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0 Volkswagen is credited with inventing the hot hatch when it brought out the original Golf GTI way back in 1976. It blended family hatchback practicality with a powerful engine, grippy handling and beefy brakes.

No wonder it zoomed to success. I owned one and I adored it. A red rim around the front grille was the modest giveaway that this was something special, a cut above the norm. The hot hatch was born.

Fast forward to today’s Golf GTI, and the same template applies to a very different car. For a start, you can have your hot hatch Golf with either a petrol engine – or a diesel. The modern Golf GTI, with a twolitre engine, is capable of sprinting past 60mph in just under six seconds, but it can do almost 40 miles to a gallon. It’s certainly quick off the mark, but it also has staying power. All for around £25,600. Or you might prefer going more than 50 miles on an expensively precious gallon in a dieselengined hot hatch Golf GTD, also with a two-litre engine, and which still sprints off the line in around eight seconds. Priced at just under £25,000. Mmm, tempting.

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punch for a relatively modest outlay. What sets them apart from their less able competitors is performance. Lots of it. These are the Usain Bolts of the garage.

A big heart is what gives these models their athletic prowess. Or more precisely, a big engine in a relatively small body. But there is much more to them than sheer muscle. They need big brakes too, to rapidly haul back the gutsy performance at the right moment, and clever suspension engineering for the athleticism that makes them particularly good fun to drive.

OK, it’s medal time. Here are some of the best hot hatchbacks currently on the scene in this Olympic summer. Gold, silver or bronze?

These are the contenders.

Model: Volkswagen Golf GTI 2.0 3-dr Price: £25,650 Engine: 2.0 litre, 4cyl petrol, 207bhp Gearbox: Six-speed manual Top speed: 149mph Fuel economy: 38.7mpg average How green? 170g/km CO2

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motoring

Model: Renault Clio Renaultsport 3-dr Price: £18,135 Engine: 2.0 litre, 4cyl petrol, 200bhp Gearbox: Six-speed auto Top speed: 141mph Fuel economy: 39mpg average How green? 190g/km CO2

Renault Clio Renaultsport Way back in the eighties the definitive hot hatch was the Peugeot 205 GTI, which took its cue from the Golf GTI and successfully stole away some of its customers. This summer the 205’s greatgrandson has just gone on sale, the wellreceived Peugeot 208, and it is already known that a GTI version is in preparation.

It will be Peugeot’s modern day hot hatch, and we just can’t wait to try it. Here now, and waving the tricolor in the face of its German rivals is the Renault Clio Renaultsport Cup. With another powerful two-litre diesel engine – tuned to produce its maximum power at high revs – this little French number has a cute style and vivid pace, surging past the 62mph barrier in under seven seconds. But it can still muster an average economy figure of 39mpg.

It is huge fun to drive and parks in a smaller gap than the others, so it is certainly in the frame for medal honours.

It’s a bit more affordable too, priced from just over £18,000 to just below £22,000.

Vauxhall Astra GTC SRI Now let’s head across to the Vauxhall camp, where we find the agile little Astra GTC. It gets its energy from a two-litre diesel engine that is up there in the same league as its Ford and VW rivals. It isn’t quite as rapid off the mark, taking just under nine seconds from 0 to 62mph, but it has the advantage of a fuel figure close to 60mpg. An Olympian with longlasting energy, this one, with prices in the £21,000 to £22,500 bracket. Or if you crave even more pace than this, there is the turbocharged Astra GTC VXR, which looks set to turn at few heads with a sprint time nose on to the Golf GTI’s. You’ll get little change from £27,000 for a specially bodied, highly specced car. Decisions, decisions, decisions...

Model: Vauxhall Astra GTC SRI 3-dr Price: £22,930

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Engine: 2.0 litre, 4cyl diesel, 163bhp Gearbox: Six-speed auto Top speed: 131mph Fuel economy: 58.9mpg average How green? 127g/km CO2

Cambridge Edition | August 2012 | 49

13/7/12 11:04:35

interiors

WORDS emily brooks

COLOUR confidence

Too often we plump for neutral interiors because we’re scared of experimenting with colour – but it’s easy when you know how, says Emily Brooks

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interiors

olour is one of the most powerful tools in the interior designer’s arsenal. It changes the size of a space: making it appear larger or smaller than it really is, and can stimulate or calm us depending on the hue; it can be reminiscent of the tastes of the past, or bring a room right up to date. So far so good – but how does colour come together in a harmonious way? We’ve all experienced places where an ‘off’ colour scheme made us feel a little unsettled – and that’s the last thing you want in your own home.

The standard line about how colour affects us (reds are stimulating, blues are tranquil, for example), is a vast over-simplification – palest pink and fire-engine red, although belonging to the same family of colours, make us feel very different. Above all, and not to be forgotten, is that colour is personal: not only do we all see it differently, but we associate different things with it, too. Some people love the azure blue that reminds them of summer holidays; others can’t abide the bottle green that brings back memories of a much-detested school uniform.

Beyond these conscious or unconscious preferences, though, there are some fairly safe principles about what goes with what.

wheel to one side and take a more practical approach. Textile and wallpaper manufacturers have been creating harmonious hues for centuries, and having a good browse of their wares is a great place to start thinking about a new colour scheme. Working outwards from a favourite painting or decorative object is also a springboard for ideas, and will ensure that your final scheme looks like it’s meant to be. “I always start with something that a customer can’t live without, whether it be something they have seen and simply must have, or a piece of existing furniture that they can’t replace,” says Sara Slade, senior interior designer at Clement Joscelyne in Cambridge (01223 442944; www.clementjoscelyne.co.uk).

“This is where the scheme starts to grow as you can select the correct base tone to run across the scheme and add layers accordingly, such as flooring, curtains, lighting and accessories.”

According to Jonathan Furbank, director and designer at Loci Interiors (01480 492377; www.lociinteriors.co.uk), we used to be much bolder with colour until the nineties trend

COLOUR WHEEL If you’re a novice, use a colour wheel (available from art shops, or have a look online), to get to know the basic relationships between colours.

It sets out the three primary colours (red, blue and yellow) at equal distance to one another, with the secondary colours (orange, green, purple) between them and the tertiary colours (e.g. blue-green or orange-yellow) filling in the remaining gaps. Colours that sit next to each other on the wheel go together, as do two colours from the opposite side of the wheel, or three colours at equal distance apart. Multiple shades (with black added) or tints (with white added) of the same colour go, too.

Sound complicated? Then throw your colour FAR left: Spectrum squares double bedset (pillowcase only shown), £22, Spectrum Seersucker double bedset, £29.50, Perfect hopsack cushion, £10, Bright Triangles throw, £35, Spectrum photo frame, £7.50; glass ball pendant ceiling light, £49.50, all Marks & Spencer (0845 609 0200; www.marksandspencer.com) above: Quick updates for the bathroom. Playnation Spirit stripe towels, from £3, Glass digital scale, £25, Playnation Spirit stripe bath mat, £16, Fuchsia pedal bin, £15, Brights Fuchsia soap dispenser, £12, all John Lewis (0845 604 9049; www.johnlewis.com) left: The colour wheel – an at-a-glance way to see which colours match which – for example, colours (or shades and tints of those colours) from the opposite sides of the wheel will harmonise

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Cambridge Edition | April 2012 | 45

9/3/12 11:55:11

interiors

WORDS emily brooks

New DIRECTIONS Seeking inspiration for a home makeover? Here are four very different trends making headway in the interiors world

Lewis side table, £439, Anna task lamp, £60, checked brushed cotton double bedlinen set, £90, standard pillowcase in stone, £9, Morgan herringbone cushion, £25, knitted cushion, £30, cable knit throw, £75, all Linea at House of Fraser (0845 602 1073; www.houseoffraser.co.uk)

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look for simple lines & natural materials

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16/7/12 15:07:12

interiors

rustic This isn’t the twee, chintzy version of the country look – rather, it’s about earthiness, natural materials and hand-made objects.

Little imperfections are good, be they in a hand-thrown earthenware bowl or the patina of an aged table.

To get the look, team timber furniture in simple shapes (unpainted, or with a lime-wash so you can still see the grain) with lots of other natural materials. The colour palette is mainly neutral, so offset the potential monotony of lots of shades of white and beige with exaggerated textures, such as thick-pile sheepskin, rough tweed or extra-slubby linen. Vegetable colours like mustard and petrol blue will fit right it, too, and for a more modern take, add a shot of something very smooth and shiny, such as a contemporary globe light in brass or copper.

The high street is doing its own massproduced version of the rustic look, but for genuinely hand-crafted products, you might have to look a bit further, such as websites like Ebury Homes and Garden (020 8859 1777; www.eburyhomeandgarden. com) or Sparrow & Co (0141 423 7638; www.sparrowandco.com). The latter’s Sam Sparrow describes his wares, including Welsh tapestry cushions and hand-turned candlesticks, as “inspired by nature – rustic like you might find in a farmhouse. I try to keep the palette neutral, with colours that don’t look too bleached and new, so that it comes across that the textiles are made from natural fibres.”

The good news about the rustic look is that it’s very relaxed. Slouchy and livedin is what you’re aiming for, which should hopefully have a knock-on effect on your own state of mind!

top: Resin antler mirror, £159, Adventino (0845 120 3224; www.adventino.com) above: Reclaimed elm blanket chest, now £325, Shimu (0844 412 8008; www.shimu.co.uk) above LEFT: Twig salad servers, £20, John Lewis (0845 604 9049; www.johnlewis.com)

RIGHT: Caernarfon cushion, £50, and sheepskin rug, £75, Sparrow & Co (0141 423 7638, www.sparrowandco.com) below: Cowhide stool, now £244, Marks & Spencer (0845 609 0200; www.marksandspencer.com)

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interiors

gypsy Bright, clashing colours, hand-painted details, patchwork and pom-poms: even if your home doesn’t have four wheels, you can still instil in it some joyful carnival spirit. The fashion for eclectic, mix-and-match interiors fits perfectly with a gypsy-inspired style, because you can combine old favourites, like your grandmother’s rag rug, with newer pieces from the high street. Bohemian and folky, it’s for people who like their interiors to look like they’ve evolved over time.

The gypsy trend is all about the textiles, so keep walls and floors neutral and let fabrics and accessories do the talking. Bold colour and clashing patterns are major features, with jewel-like tones – pink, teal, emerald and purple – the dominant force. Look for blowsy florals, polka dots and paisley, and feel free to mix them up (the trick is to keep the colours fairly similar but make sure the scale is different – oversized flowers with ditsy spots, for example).

Folky style takes its cues from all over the world; if it’s brightly coloured and heavily embellished, it’ll probably fit. Indian handpainted furniture or Chinese embroidery shares some of the same exuberant design DNA as traditional Romany style, so throw it all in together (not forgetting a few holiday souvenirs to prove your nomadic spirit).

This trend is also ripe for anyone who’s a bit crafty – making a patchwork quilt or painting up some old furniture with a floral design are both ways in which you can get the look.

ABOVE left: Multi-coloured embroidered cushion, £15, Sainsbury’s (0800 636 262; www.sainsburys.co.uk) ABOVE: Chinoise double duvet set by PiP studio, £120, John Lewis (0845 604 9049; www.johnlewis.com) right: Handpainted Indian cabinet, £248.98, Namaste (01756 700790; www.namaste-uk.com) middle: Patchwork Romany Love Seat, £285, French Bedroom Company (0845 644 8022; www.frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk) FAR Right: Tub chair, £159, Littlewoods (0844 822 8000; www.littlewoods.com)

This trend is all about the textiles, so keep walls and floors neutral and let fabrics and accessories do the talking 58 | Cambridge Edition | August 2012

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16/7/12 15:07:46

interiors

ABOVE top: Tin flour shaker in Rosie Blue, £5.25, Drift Living (01289 330480; www.driftliving.co.uk) ABOVE: Hand-painted Sophie gratin dish, £42.50, Boutique Provencale (0800 954 0232; www. boutiqueprovencale.co.uk) ABOVE right: Godis Mix glasses, £4.99 for six, Ikea (0845 355 2255; www.ikea.com) right: The Vardo 3 Drawer Chest, £555, Graham & Green (0845 130 6622; www. grahamandgreen.co.uk)

go for bold, jewel-like tones

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interiors

Geometric Making the jump from fashion to home, angular patterns and shapes are big news this summer. Much of the inspiration comes from Scandinavia – long-time lovers of simple graphics, and a huge influence on British style at the moment. Brands such as Denmark’s Ferm Living are leading the way, with harlequin-print wallpapers and ceramic vases that look like stacked globes and pyramids; more cutting-edge is Hay Studio, also Danish, whose Colour-Block bedlinen combines thick graphic lines (think maths textbooks) with big blocks of grey and pastel colours.

Adding a graphic cushion or rug to your scheme is an easy update, but the trend works in three dimensions, too. Terence Conran’s first range for Marks and Spencer (a second is about to be released) included geometric glass vases straight out of the science lab, while furniture designers are exploring folded shapes of sheet metal – large-scale origami, almost – or bent tubular steel, so that the furniture is almost a sketch come to life.

Geometric patterns have a long pedigree, of course, especially in places such as Morocco and Turkey: both cultures used intricate, interlocking patterns to create dazzling designs. Tiling is the obvious way to recreate the style at home, either with authentic Moroccan tiles (try Habibi Interiors, 020 8960 9203; www.habibi-interiors.com) or something more traditional, like Fired Earth’s encaustic floor tiles (0845 293 8798; www. firedearth.com). If you’re more of a minimalist, stick to a single colour but an unusual shape – hexagonal, fish-scale or diamond.

Miro wallpaper, £30 per roll, chair in Scion Plains One, £26 per metre, cushion in Miro £28 per metre, all by Scion from Paint & Paper Emporium (01223 506136; www.paintandpaperemporium.com)

TOP: Harlequin wallpaper by Ferm Living, £69.95 per roll, 95% Danish (01993 867078; www.95percentshop.co.uk) ABOVE RIGHT: Bau large pendant light by Normann Copenhagen, £200, Bodie & Fou (020 8450 5600; www.bodieandfou.com) ABOVE: Shuffle table by &Tradition, £465, Cloudberry Living (07780 693034; www.cloudberryliving.co.uk) ABOVE FAR RIGHT: Mira grey hexagonal tiles, £10.49 for a 30.5cmx30.5cm tile, Topps Tiles (0800 023 4703; www.toppstiles.co.uk) RIGHT: Honeycomb Votive candle in teal, £5, John Lewis (0845 604 9049; www.johnlewis.com)

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16/7/12 15:07:33

interiors

industrial

MAIN: French wall clocks, £39-£198, Plümo (0844 557 3590; www.plumo.com) LAMP: 7165 Spun Reflector Cord Grip Lampholder in weathered copper by Davey Lighting, £190.80, Lighting Matters (020 7351 2130; www.lightingmatters.co.uk)

Temper some of the rawness of industrial design by adding natural materials, especially timber, into the mix, as well as soft textiles left: Colt metal unit, £120, Alexander & Pearl (020 8508 0411; www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk)

“Industrial styling has a rawness that resonates with today’s homeowners,” says Peter Bowles, managing director of Davey Lighting. “Where and how products are made or sourced has become a talking point. The focus is on craftsmanship, purpose and tradition.” The influence of schools, factories and other nondomestic spaces on our home interiors has been gathering pace for a while, and whereas it might have had a bit more softness before – a colourful Anglepoise lamp, or a worn school chair – it has become more heavy-duty now, with ironwork, clamps, and nuts and bolts on show for the world to see.

If you just want to dip a toe into the look, start with lighting. Companies like Davey Lighting, which originally set up to supply Victorian shipyards, are now heading full-tilt into the domestic market: its products are the real deal rather than the lookalikes you might get on the high street, so a pretty good choice if you’re interested in longevity. “This is not about shine and newness. The key is a raw, unprocessed look so going for a massproduced version won’t give the same effect,” says Peter.

At home, it makes sense to temper some of the rawness of industrial design – no one wants to feel like they live in a factory – so put some natural materials, especially timber, in the mix, as well as soft textiles. Industrial can be colourful as well as practical, so add some life to your scheme with powder-coated wire door hooks, bright filing cabinets and painted metal chairs.

right: Brick clock by LEFF Amsterdam, £249, 4Living (0800 7565 199; www.4living.co.uk) BELOW Left: Steel and mango-wood Harlem seat, £160, Alexander & Pearl (020 8508 0411; www.alexanderandpearl.co.uk) BELOW RIGHT: Industrial Gear bookends, £198, Anthropologie (020 3119 2907; www.anthropologie.eu)

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interiors

Thanks to a range of new technological developments, modern conservatories are energy efficient and easy to maintain of the conservatory, the ground and base work, and the installation – range from £7,000 to £25,000, depending on the size and specification,” says Mike Sherman (01945 772826; www.mikesherman.org), who has been installing conservatories locally since the mid-1980s. “The average is around £13,000.”

He agrees with Tony Moore that stark white PVC is not quite as popular now – “many of our customers are now asking for bespoke coloured conservatories” – adding that today’s painted and woodgrain-effect PVC products are “very authentic looking”.

PVC has another significant advantage in that it is virtually maintenance-free apart from cleaning, but other modern materials are hardly far behind. Hardwood conservatories are now made from engineered timber, which makes them incredibly durable, explains Lee Vaughan, managing director of Breckenridge Conservatories (0845 070 1973; www. breckenridgeconservatories.co.uk): “They don’t move, or expand and contract, so they’re very stable; they’re also resistant to rot and fungal infection, and the paint systems we now use enable the material to breathe. Older timber conservatories would have used oilbased paint and lime putty, and eventually the water would find its way into the substrate

ABOVE: This fully glazed, 13.2m2 extension

by Glass Design and Build (020 678 5621; www.glassdesignandbuild.co.uk) shows how contemporary structures can lay a light hand on period properties. Supply and installation of this project was approximately £40,000 right: Ridged indoor rattan bowl chair, £299, Ingarden (01732 832299; www.ingarden.co.uk)

go bespoke to suit your style 44 | Cambridge Edition | July 2012

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This unusual flint-rendered orangery in Cambridgeshire, by Marston & Langinger (020 7881 5700; www.marstonand-langinger.com) shows how a bespoke conservatory manufacturer can create something tailor-made to your needs. Extending over 6x3m, it has been carefully designed to work with the existing architecture, marrying together the adjacent flintwork garden wall and the house’s ground-floor arched windows; the lantern roof means that light floods in from above as well as through the doors. Something similar from Marston & Langinger will cost from £60,000 + VAT.

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15/6/12 14:55:41

AL FRESCO

2

1 4

3

5

our to p al fresco style p icks

6

let's go

outside 1) Double Heart Birdhouse £10 Breeze (www.breeze.uk.com)

6) Henley Rectangular Table £299 Jo Alexander (www.joalexander.co.uk)

2) Set Of Four Colourful Jar Tea Light Holders £12.99 The Contemporary Home (www.tch.net)

7) Round Table £89.99, Folding Chair £64.99 Cutlacks (www.cutlacks.co.uk)

3) Fouta Honeycomb in fuchsia/light taupe) £35 Febronie (www.febronie.com) 4) E clectic Chair Cushions £19.99 (each) The Contemporary Home (www.tch.net)

8) B otanic Garden Large Wall Clock £75 Lily & Lime (www.lilyandlime.co.uk) 9) Weathered gold and green garden bench £95 Shop on the Pond (www.shoponthepond.com)

5) Pigeon & Jelly Deckchair £125 Rume (www.rume.co.uk)

7

8

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15/6/12 14:19:33

FOOD

WORDS Sian Townsend

A recipe for success Image courtesy of House of Fraser

Cambridge Edition meets four local entrepreneurs who gave up everything to make their foodie dreams a reality

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14/5/12 11:41:32

FOOD

Taking the biscuit

IMAGES: Rachel would encourage all budding entrepreneurs to get out there, take a risk and not be afraid of failure

Keen to spend more time with her family, mum of two Rachel Hewitt gave up a high-flying career to set up LOCALLY-BASED baked goods business, The Biscuit Jar As a buyer for Selfridges and large facilities company, Sodexo, Rachel had always taken great pleasure in her career. But once one of her young sons became ill she was forced to take time out. “I knew I needed a better work-life balance and started considering what I could do,” she explains.

“Then a friend sent me a Lego cookie cutter, and that was all the inspiration I needed.” A keen baker, Rachel then started to develop her own range of iced biscuits, launching The Biscuit Jar in May 2011. She started things small with stalls at village markets and the Mill Road Winter Fair and now creates a range of sweet and savoury biscuits for local sweetshops and delis.

Her sweet selection uses creative icing to make miniature works of art, whilst the savoury offerings include a Parmesan and fennel seed biscuit – perfect for cheese.

“If someone was having a cheese party for example I could bake the names of the cheeses to use as labels,” she says. She also creates bespoke packages for customers.

“It’s my favourite part. I recently completed a jar of biscuits for a 50th wedding anniversary from the couple’s children. Each biscuit represented something from their many years together – from family pets and cars, to important dates and milestones,” she says.

“Another favourite was a set of 18th birthday biscuits for a keen hockey player where I created the exact shirt she wore, complete with school colours and her number.”

Rachel recently won the award for best craft business 2012 by Cambridge Business Mums, and recommends nominating yourself for awards to other budding entrepreneurs.

“There’s loads of national and regional magazines and newspapers that run awards for small businesses,” she explains. “Winning gets you publicity and often business help and support.”

The minimal start-up costs appealed to Rachel and meant she could set up her business without taking a large financial risk.

“For me there was a huge attraction that I could set up with low investment,” she says.

“The website and branding were key for my business and so 50 per cent of my start-up costs went on those.”

And when it comes to family life Rachel

feels her new life in food works well. “Having my own business gives me control and the satisfaction with my work that I crave, and in turn I feel I am a better wife and mother because of it,” she says. “Saying that though it can eat into family time and you will need the understanding and support from your other half and children, but as long as you are wise to it, it’s manageable.”

As a happy businesswoman and mum Rachel recommends her new way of life to all fledgling entrepreneurs. “I would say take a risk and don’t be afraid of failure. If it doesn’t work, you can learn from it and move on.” thebiscuitjar.co.uk

Words of wisdom: Branding is key. Get a good designer and a logo you love.

Stick to your original business plan in terms of your core ideas and aims.

Learn from others and don’t be afraid to ask other people questions.

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Cambridge Edition | June 2012 | 39

14/5/12 12:05:47

weddings

IMAGE: Local bride Holly Mead shares a special moment with a childhood friend on her wedding day at Swaffham Prior

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10/2/12 15:58:20

weddings

WORDS Charlotte Phillips

The perfect

Wedding f previous figures are anything to go by, over a quarter of a million couples will be tying the knot this year in England and Wales alone, forking out around £2,000 on the ring, planning the marriage after an engagement lasting around 18 months and spending, on average, £20,000 on the big day itself. In our apparently flora-loving area, that includes £750 on flowers (50 per cent higher than the national average).

Parents are making far less of a contribution than they used to – these days, many couples shoulder

around half the costs. And instead of the lion’s share of organisation devolving to the bride and her family, brides and grooms increasingly work as a team and share the tasks between them, which can make it a very special time.

“Philip was just as interested if not more so than me, which was quite surprising,” says Angela Eaves, (nee May Man) who married Philip, an army sergeant, last September at South Farm in Royston. “He was totally on the ball and he planned the whole thing with military precision.”

Inevitably, it’s not always plain sailing. Given the skills required to negotiate not just the finances but the emotional and logistical complications, too, tensions develop and disagreements can break out between even the calmest of brides and most relaxed of grooms – often over seemingly trivial details.

“We agreed on all the big decisions like the venue,” says Angela, an actress. “I went to see it with my mum… and Philip loved it, whereas with things like tea lights he wanted to spend three pounds fifty on each and I wanted to spend fifty pence. But then I just thought

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CE03_030-039 (WEDDINGS).indd 31

Images courtesy of Alex Beckett (www.alexbeckett.co.uk)

With wedding season fast approaching, we make sure your special day goes off without a hitch as we get the lowdown from local brides and experts

Cambridge Edition | March 2012 | 31

10/2/12 15:58:28

5 of the best

WORDS Sian townsend

5 of the best...

CLOTHES SHOPS FOR HER In need of some stylish new clobber? Cambridge is not short on fantastic independent fashion retailers – here’s our pick of the best for the ladies

Our p of the ick top indep enden t wome store n's s town in !

Modish Every girl loves a new pair of shoes and there are few better places to get your fix than at fabulous local independent Modish Shoes on Green Street. Sarah Decent – who owns both the Cambridge and Saffron Walden stores – puts an emphasis on footwear that won’t require you to sacrifice comfort for style. “All our shoes look good and feel good,” says Sarah. “If it hurts, it doesn’t make the cut!” Personal service is also key to the shopping experience at this store, which was recommended by The Guardian newspaper as one of the Top 100 shoe shops in the UK. The stock is eclectic too, sourced from Sarah’s travels. “There’s a selection from all over the world that you just won’t see anywhere else,” she says. “And they are all great value for money too.”

3 Green Street, CB2 3JU, 01223 354436, modishonline.co.uk

image: A vintage-inspired floral number by Emily & Fin, £59, available from Bridge Street boutique Lilac Rose

Jemporium Vintage If you are after a truly one-off piece then there’s no better place to hunt than a vintage store, and Jemporium Vintage is a treasure trove of gems from the fifties through to the eighties. The store is bursting with an array of men's and women’s clothing and accessories – and they even stock some very stylish suitcases to store your new booty in. Owner Jenny Skilton started her vintage collection over six years ago and moved from Cambridge market to Fisher Hall, and finally into the Grafton Centre premises in April 2010. Her goal? “To bring you the finest, most awesome vintage clothing and accessories around at the lowest prices,” she says.

Unit 61, The Grafton Centre, CB1 1PS, 07737 911857, jemporiumvintage.co.uk

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16/7/12 14:42:59

5 of the best

Lilac Rose Stumble across this little gem on Bridge Street and you’ll be drooling over the enchanting accessories and unique clothing range within seconds. On the accessories front there’s satchels, purses and bags in all sorts of shapes, sizes and fabrics, and when it comes to jewellery, there’s unique necklaces, bracelets and earrings that will have you receiving complements galore. Cartoon fans and those with a taste for the quirky will love their range of Moomins items (yep, that little white fella), and there are wardrobe choices suitable for both everyday and big night out. Dresses range from cute and preppy to colourful, vintage-inspired numbers by British designers such as Emily and Fin, Fever and Trollied Dolly. It's the kind of lovely little place where you end up losing hours, picking things up and 'cooing' endlessly. You have been warned!

Boudoir Femme The design of this King Street shop adds a touch of forties glamour to the Cambridge shopping scene and earlier in the year Boudoir Femme moved to larger premises, which gave them the space for even more sartorial treats. Vintage jewellery sits alongside contemporary brands such as American Vintage and Anonymous by Ross and Bute. "The store's philosophy is to deliver value to customers by offering them a unique mix of stylish clothing, accessory and shoe brands, together with excellent customer service," says owner Pippa Sandison.

71 Bridge Street, CB2 1UR, 01223 363330

Dresses range from cute and preppy to colourful, vintageinspired numbers

2 King Street, CB1 1LN, 01223 323000, www.boudoirfemme.co.uk

Best out of town

Cuckoo With branches at St Mary’s Passage and Burwash Manor, you can scour the rails at Cuckoo clothing in a convenient city centre location or a tranquil country spot. “We offer unique clothing and accessories, and a relaxed shopping environment,” says manager Hayley Butler. “You'll find something a bit different and there is an eclectic mix of quirky and classic brands. Have a look through the vintage silk scarves and you'll find a beauty to add a stylish splash of colour to any outfit. We take enormous pride in our collection and place emphasis on texture, pattern, cut and wearability.”

New Road, Barton CB23 7EY, 01223 2621234 and St Mary’s Passage, CB2 3PQ, 01223 364345, cuckooclothing.co.uk

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Elouise Lingerie Book a fitting session here and one of the stylists will find you the lingerie, nightwear or swimwear that suits you best. They stock a huge range of sizes with pieces from all over the world.

40 High Street, Buckden PE19 5XA, 01480 812740, elouiselingerie.co.uk

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16/7/12 14:43:05

fashion

TO IN P E T S G SPRIN up your

n Brighte e with a b o r d war hues f pastel o w o b n i a r

ted baker colour block shirt £119

Miss Selfridge Corded lace pleat dress £45

Topshop MOTO Stripe High Waist Hotpant £32

JUST LIKE

candy WORDS Esme Benjamin

Primark Contrast Tipped Collar Blouse £10 Turquoise Belted Trousers £12 Bag £6 Heels £14

Those who couldn’t quite stomach the acid brights from AW11 will adore the new softer, sweeter direction of spring’s offerings.

Almost without exception designers swathed their models in rosy pinks, minty greens, icy blues and sherbet lemons this season.

In some cases the looks were beautifully feminine and ethereal (Dior and Lanvin to name a couple), other times the light palette contributed a softer edge to traditionally austere pieces, like Preen’s tailored trouser suits, but whichever your preference there are a wealth of options on the high street. Pair Topshop’s skinnies with Ted Baker’s contrast colour block shirt to nail the look.

topshop high waist jamie jeans £40

oasis skirt £45

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10/2/12 11:42:48

FASHION

EDGY ALL SAINTS MAISIE DRESS £295

ALL SAINTS NATIVE DRESS £295

TOPSHOP OZLEM DRESS

BY MOTEL £32

PICK'n' MIX DESIGNERS LIKE Dries Van Noten and Mary Katrantzou turned into mashup artists this season, indulging their experimental side with a plethora of collage and patchwork pieces. Look out for a mish-mash of textures, prints and embellishment (All Saint’s are the go to for this trend). Or you could get creative and combine statement pieces to produce the same effect.

TOPSHOP HOLLY DRESS

BY JONES AND JONES £65

knits

ISABEL MARANT’S tassel-fronted jumper was one of the major cult hits of AW11 and the Parisian designer wasn’t alone in her championing unusual knits – Erdem and Vanessa Bruno also sexed-up the humble winter staple.

Buy into the edgy knit trend with Topshop’s quirky robot motif number or ASOS’s brilliantly retro crochet creation.

TOPSHOP KNITTED FLURO ROBOT MOTIF JUMPER £38

TOPSHOP KNITTED TWEEDY SWEAT £36

RIVER ISLAND DRESS £50

TOPSHOP KNITTED PAINTED FOX JUMPER £25

ACCESSORIZE MIAMI WEEKENDER BAG £40

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ASOS PREMIUM FLORAL HAND CROCHETED JUMPER £50

Cambridge Edition | February 2012 | 35

18/1/12 18:17:25

fashion WAREHOUSE Peplum skirt £45 TOP £25

CoAST LORRAINE dress £160

WORDS Esme Benjamin

high voltage

glamour

Store your masculine cuts and pared-back pieces, this season high maintenance dressing is back with a bang. Take your cues from the catwalk and opt for Jason Wu’s full fifties dresses, Nina Ricci’s prim and proper coats or Marc Jacobs’ princess-worthy embellishments.

Oasis has a great selection of pretty prom dresses, whilst Karen Millen rules the High Street when it comes to structured, Roland Mouret-esque numbers. However you emulate the look, finish it off with strappy heels, a Valley of the Doll’s coiffed ‘do and a slick of red lipstick.

oASIS Vintage Floral Dress £85 karen miLlen SIGNATURE STRETCH dress £175 karen millen hard lace dress £190

coast monroe dress £295

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13/4/12 15:35:59

Citrus pop Nothing will put a spring in your step like this season’s citrus hues. From zingy fluorescents to placid pastels, the catwalks were teaming with lemon and orange this season (reference Victoria Beckham, Preen and DVF for inspiration). To inject your wardrobe with an instant dose of Riviera sunshine this summer pair a fresh white T-shirt with Topshop’s cropped neon skinnies. Alternatively, if you’re really much more of a monochrome girl, then test the water with a splash of citrus – these Zara strappy sandals are bang on trend.

fashion

topshop harlequin sequin short £75

topshop aztec knicker short £22

ted baker 'bessh' top £59

short ‘n’

SWEET

MATALAN Sorbet Coloured Block Vest £7 Multi Hoop Drop Earrings £6 Coloured Skinny Jean £16

topshop moto mint jeans £30

This spring the skirt has been usurped by its more versatile and practical cousin, the short. Ralph Lauren showed office-ready pinstripes, D&G playful prints and Theyskens’ Theory low-slung laid-back and tomboy-like versions. Have some fun and cherry pick from the plethora of top High Street options available from pastel to neon colour-block denims all the way through to glitzy, blinged-out sequined pairs. Don’t be afraid to rock them with a pair of black opaques in the (somewhat likely) event of inclement weather either.

ted baker gleeso shorts £89

topshop GATHERED WAIST DIP HEM DRESS £38

zara BASIC sandal £29.99

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MATALAN TWILL SHORTS £8

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13/4/12 15:36:09

fashion

ZARA ARABESQUE PRINT TROUSERS £39.99

Urban Outfitters Carin Wester Print Trousers £80

g Sizzlin r summes trend

RIVER ISLAND Rhianna Suit Trousers £30

ASOS OMBRE FLORAL ANKLE GRAZER £45

Prints are going head-to-toe for summer. From Marc by Marc Jacobs’ African-print to Givenchy’s sharp monochrome – printed trousers are having a major fashion moment. Only the brave should try to rock clashing motifs so keep it minimal and match yours with a simple silk tee and statement-making necklace, then finish with a pair of fierce heels to keep the look from descending into ‘gap year’ territory. Zara, Urban Outfitters and Topshop all do affordable alternatives on the high street.

LA REDOUTE JACKET £49 TROUSERS £29

WORDS Esme Benjamin

Printed

Pantaloons

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14/6/12 15:17:38

fashion

river island shell necklace £10 boohoo.com Penny Crop Top £20

asos big fish pendant necklace £12

matalan under the sea scarf £6

underTHE

SEA

There was literally something fishy about this season’s trends – designers took inspiration from all things aquatic to conjure a lost-city-of-Atlantis vibe. At McQueen Sarah Burton sent dresses resembling a coral reef down the catwalk, while Versace showed prints with mermaids, seahorses and starfish. Channel the look with Zara’s ocean-scene dress, topped off with Topshop’s shimmering clutch.

topshop Floral Organza Crop Top £30

top of the

CROPS

topshop Envelope Coin Purse £10

There was a blast from the past on this summer’s catwalks; crop tops made a comeback across the board. But we’re not talking early-noughties belly baring à la Britney Spears – the key to keeping it short and chic is to team bra tops with high-waisted skirts or shorts. Dolce & Gabbana, Emilio Pucci and Miu Miu all created ensembles which showed only a flash of ribcage (the narrowest and therefore most flattering section to bare) and the high street has followed suit. Pair up Topshop’s pretty organza piece with a voluminous ladylike skirt or Missguided's cute stripy number with high-waisted denim shorts.

ZARA Fish print dress £69.99

topshop Buttercup Crop Top £22

missguided Tianny Striped Bralet Top Blue £21.99 primark under the sea dress £17 Cambridge Edition | July 2012 | 59

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14/6/12 15:17:51

beauty

Miss B ’s Beaut y Corne r WORDS Briony Whitehouse

BRITISH beauty heroes

the t e e r g er summith sun w ous gorge ade skin, mtain in bri

With the nation in the midst of a collective love affair with all things British, now is an apt moment to celebrate all things homegrown. British brands easily hold their own against the world’s most celebrated beauty giants, and these are just 10 of my favourites of today’s Brit beauty heroes

1. Jo Malone (English Pear & Freesia Candle, £38) My favourite small luxury in life is a house filled with beautiful scented candles, and none beats Jo Malone. I’m also very partial to their Orange Blossom Perfume for summer and Red Roses Bath Oil for decadent moments.

2. Penhaligon’s (Peoneve, out 16 July) Nothing could be more English than a bottle of perfume from Penhaligon’s, a British institution established in 1870 and beloved by Her Royal Highness. All the products are still lovingly made here in England and the newest scent in the family, Peoneve, is utter loveliness.

3. Cowshed My favourite range of body care (their skincare is also excellent), Cowshed’s shower gel, moisturiser and hand wash have been firmly planted in my bathroom for years. Quite simply, they make even the greyest morning instantly better.

4. Eve Lom (cleanser, £55) A firm cult beauty favourite, Eve Lom’s muslin cloth cleanser is widely acclaimed for good reason (British Vogue says it’s the best cleanser in the world, and I don’t like to argue with Vogue). If you're on a budget, then Liz Earle’s hot cloth cleansers are a brilliant alternative.

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14/6/12 15:02:00

beauty

5. Neal’s Yard Remedies (Limited Edition Union Jack Garden Mint and Bergamot Hand Lotion, £12) Luxury to me is a regular massage at Neal’s Yard Remedies (even in the staunchest of austerity drives, I would find a way to keep my appointments). But if you can’t manage a regular treatment, their skincare is sublime (good to your skin and good to the environment too).

6. This Works (Deep Sleep Pillow Spray, £15) The brainchild of a former Vogue beauty editor, the entire This Works range does exactly what it says on the tin: simple, unfussy skin and body products that actually work. Use this spray and you're guaranteed your beauty sleep.

7. Molton Brown (Naran Ji Fine Liquid Hand Wash, £16) This brand is quintessentially English, and a perennial bathroom favourite. The Naran Ji hand wash is a bestseller, though the White Mulberry Hand Lotion is also completely divine.

8. Body Shop (Mango Body Butter, £12.50) Anita Roddick is a national hero in her own right for championing the cause of ethical beauty, and her Body Shop empire continues to hold the beauty industry to a higher standard. The super-rich and gorgeously scented body butter (made with Fair Trade cocoa butter) is a classic.

9. Nails Inc. (Limited Edition Jubilee Nail Polish, £15) Nails Inc. is currently enjoying remarkable success, and deservedly so: the quality is superb (highly pigmented and long-wearing) and the colour spectrum unrivalled. The fact that each shade is named after a London street or British landmark makes it all the more endearing in my mind.

10. Rimmel (Glam Eyes HD Union Jack Eyeshadow Palette, £6.99) It is a rare young British woman who doesn’t have at least one Rimmel product in her make-up bag. Fronted by the most English of English models, Kate Moss, this brand is always on top of the latest trends and guaranteed to offer good value for money.

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Cambridge Edition | July 2012 | 57

14/6/12 15:02:11

BALL GOWNS

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Belle of the Ball As the Cambridge May Ball season approaches, the Grand Arcade selects its top 10 gorgeous gowns…

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Column maxi dress, £65, from Wallis, first floor, Grand Arcade Python maxi dress with side split, £299, from Hobbs, first floor, Grand Arcade Pleated maxi dress, £199, from Ted Baker, ground floor, Grand Arcade Floral strapless long dress, £229, from Ted Baker, ground floor, Grand Arcade Beverley dress (left) £145, Rigby dress (right) £195, from Coast, first floor, Grand Arcade Fleur dress, £245, from LK Bennett, first floor, Grand Arcade Embellished bodice dress, £75, from Warehouse, ground floor, Grand Arcade Astoria frill dress, £395, from Phase Eight, first floor, Grand Arcade Lace shift dress, £175, from Laura Ashley, first floor, Grand Arcade Maxi evening dresses, £170 each, from Coast, first floor, Grand Arcade

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13/4/12 15:26:23

EDUCATION

next month in cambridge edition

September’s issue of Cambridge Edition magazine will feature a special education supplement, packed with advice, information and expert opinion on everything you need to know about studying in Cambridge and the surrounding area

Guide includes: • Showcases of schools in Cambridgeshire • Topical features & news • Guide to local open days • Adult education courses

Help us raise funds for the Rosie at www.justgiving.com/cambridge-edition

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Local education supplement

Cambridge Edition | August 2012 | 39

17/7/12 15:30:02

fitness

and health ths y food m d! expose

WORDS Charlie Wall

Keeping fit & staying healthy: the misconceptions

In her job as a local fitness instructor, owner of Cambridge Bootcamps Charlie Wall is constantly shocked at how much wrong information people have about looking after themselves. Here, she outlines the biggest health and food myths out there, offering expert advice on avoiding common mistakes

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13/7/12 15:24:42

fitness

n a world in which people obsess over body image and keeping in tip-top physical condition, it comes as a surprise that many of us have no idea how to truly keep ourselves fit and healthy.

It’s no wonder though; there’s a lot of wrong information out there and it can be tough to try and distinguish between the misconception and the truth. In my day-today job I’m amazed at how often intelligent people fall foul of the health fallacies that we are presented with each day. Below are just some of the most common diet and fitness non-truths that I come across, as well as tips and advice on making sure that you avoid them – something which can be crucial in helping you to achieve your health goals.

1. Artificial sweeteners A sweetener is not as sweet as it professes to be. In fact, artificial sweeteners have been found to be one of the most toxic substances that we regularly put inside our bodies. As well as being linked to metabolism dysfunction, there is research to suggest that they can be responsible for clogging up the liver to the point where it damages this crucial organ's capacity to function. The liver is a key organ in losing weight and burning fat, and if it's feeling taxed and unable to work to its optimum (which it is when it's breaking down toxins), you may well find that you struggle to lose weight. It's also worth bearing in mind when dishing out zero sugar drinks and artificially sweet snacks to kids – sugar in large doses may be bad for teeth and weight, but sweeteners are not so innocent either.

2. Doing crunches will get rid of my belly Unfortunately, that is just not the case. Being able to see your abdominal muscles is to do with your overall percentage of body fat. If you don’t lose that fat, you won’t see those abs! After you’ve lost the body fat, you can then begin to work on making them more prominent.

3. Resting After a long and stressful day in the office, many people think that spending a couple of hours in the gym will help release that stress.

While exercise is extremely important when trying to stay healthy, so is resting. Insufficient rest and sleep can lead to weight gain by altering the hormone levels that regulate satiety and hunger. It’s also vital to make sure you make time for things you enjoy too – a positive and happy mind will naturally lead to a more content body.

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4. Lifting weights Lifting weights will not always make you look bulky. This common misconception is the reason that many women, and some men, steer clear of weights. But the main component of looking ‘bulky’ is actually testosterone. Men have 20 to 30 times more testosterone than women, meaning that they can build up their muscles and acquire ‘bulk’ much quicker. Rather than something to be avoided at all costs, some light weight training can actually help us to achieve our ultimate weight loss goals quicker.

5. Ditch the scales Many dieters will wake up in the morning and determine their mood on how much weight they have lost. Instead of weighing yourself, measure yourself. Measure your arms, legs, waist and hips to gauge whether or not you are losing weight. If you are losing weight, you could be losing water or even muscle.

Therefore by monitoring your measurements you are more likely to gauge whether you are achieving real results, as opposed to weight loss from the consequences of your daily habits, hormonal shifts and changing hydration levels.

6. Dairy Dairy is one of the main reasons that people struggle to lose weight. Blissfully unaware, dieters cut out a number of other unhealthy foods whilst labouring under the misconception that dairy is good for you. It can be good for you, but it can also help you pile on the calories. Think of those countless cups of tea and coffee, and your breakfast cereal – take them all with full fat milk and that's a lot of calories sneaking onto your waistline. My advice? If you want to lose weight, cut down on your dairy intake.

These are just some of the misconceptions that have been brought to the attention of myself and my team in the past. When losing weight, maintaining weight or just trying to stay healthy, it is important to do your research. The Internet can be your best friend or worst enemy, so only use reliable websites when you are researching. Don’t be ashamed to ask your GP or fitness instructor for a healthy eating plan either, especially if you feel confused by which foods harm and which foods heal – I guarantee they’ll be happy to help.

For more information on Cambridge Bootcamps, call 07545284928 or visit www.cambridgebootcamps.co.uk

Cambridge Edition | August 2012 | 65

13/7/12 15:24:52

gardening

IMAGE: To avoid snail and slug damage, keep an eye on the first leafy shoots from your dahlias and surround them with a circle of coarse grit

When planting summer-flowering bulbs always select a sheltered, sunny spot with reasonably fertile and well-drained soil

When planting summer-flowering bulbs, always select a sheltered, sunny spot with a reasonably fertile and well-drained soil and bury them to the correct depth and spacing.

For impact, it’s also worth planting the bulbs in groups of three, five, seven and nine (rather than even numbers) as this will ensure a bold and natural-looking clump of colour.

On heavy and moisture-retentive soils, line the bottom of each planting hole with a shallow layer of horticultural sand and nestle the base of the bulbs into the material. The sand works by improving the drainage and prevents the bulbs sitting in water for long periods, which can cause rotting.

Certain bulbs, such as dahlias, are prone to slug and snail damage so, when the first leafy shoots emerge, surround them with a continuous circle of coarse grit. This roughtextured material will form a physical barrier and helps stop these slimy pests eating the plants. Taller summer-flowering bulbs will also need staking and many are not completely frost hardy so precautions should be taken to guarantee they survive the winter months.

GardenING Tips OF THE MONTH Essential garden jobs for March...

It’s an ideal time to plant onion sets (small and immature bulbs) in the vegetable patch. When doing this, select a reliable variety, such as ‘Red Baron’ or ‘Sturon’ and plant the sets in a sunny spot with well-drained soil – space the individual sets 4in apart and make sure the pointed tips are just visible at the soil surface.

Hard prune deciduous shrubs, including Cornus alba (dogwood) and Salix alba are grown for their display of brightly coloured winter stems. For ease, cut back the oldest stems close to ground level as this will encourage the production of vigorous and glowing young wood.

Repair obvious bumps and hollows in lawns by carefully peeling back the turf and adding or removing soil as necessary.

Afterwards, reposition and then firm down the turf, before giving it a good soak. It’s also possible to use a half-moon edging iron to redefine broken and overgrown lawn edges.

To ensure a bumper crop of summer fruits this year, hand-pollinate the open flowers of nectarines and peaches. Simply stroke the centre of each flower in turn (preferably at midday) using a soft-haired artist’s paintbrush.

In the herb garden, chives will be starting to grow and it’s possible to create some new specimens by lifting and dividing them now. Replant the segments – these should have obvious leaves and roots – in a sunny or partially shaded spot with a moist but well-drained soil.

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10/2/12 10:36:38

gardening WORDS Neil Wormald

SUMMERFLOWERING BULBS

Adding summer-flowering bulbs to your garden this springtime is a relatively easy way to add long-lasting blooms and colour, and they are fairly simple to care for in comparison to their finicky spring cousins

Summer-flowering bulbs to try 1. Agapanthus (African lily): This beautiful plant has strap-like leaves and long stems (to 75cm tall) terminating in rounded clumps of blue or white flowers from July to September. It can be grown in the open ground and large containers. In the late autumn, surround the crowns with an insulatory mulch of bark chippings or place agapanthus containers into the protection of a greenhouse. (Main image left) 2. Border Dahlias: These flamboyant and brightly coloured plants bloom from the middle of summer to the first frosts, and the flowers come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. They reach approximately 90-150cm in height and usually require staking. A thick winter mulch is essential, or lift the fleshy ‘tubers’ in the late autumn and overwinter in a frostfree greenhouse.

3. Galtonia Candicans: The hardy summer hyacinth is an imposing plant (up to 90cm tall) covered with pendulous and bellshaped white blooms. It thrives in borders and containers. Once the display is over, cut down the spent flower spikes and mulch around the plant crowns.

IMAGE: Scented lilies are perfect for smaller gardens as they are easily grown in borders and containers

ost gardeners associate bulbs with the spring, when crocuses, daffodils and snowdrops bring the first splashes of colour to beds and borders after the dull winter months.

However, there are bulbs for every season and many will transform the garden throughout the summer months too. These include dahlias, gladioli and lilies, all of which are easy to grow and should be planted in the early to mid-spring to guarantee masses of stunning flowers. In this tough financial climate, summer-flowering bulbs also have the advantage of offering great value for money as a packet of 10 to 20 bulbs costs only a few pounds and, with a little care, they should last for many years.

In the garden, summer-flowering bulbs are best used to enhance and extend the period

of interest in mixed borders. This is usually done by planting the bulbs in obvious gaps, or between herbaceous perennials and shrubs that come into flower at other times of the year. Alternatively, bury the bulbs in front of evergreens and compact leafy plants which will provide them with valuable shelter and a backdrop for their colourful blooms.

You could also establish an eye-catching ‘flowering wall’ by growing a long row of taller bulbs, such as gladioli at the back of a border.

For those with smaller gardens, scented summer-flowering bulbs, notably lilies, can be raised in containers and placed by the front and back door, or use pots of exotic-looking agapanthus to create wonderful focal points on the terrace. If your outdoor space is exposed, don’t forget to opt for dwarf bulb varieties as these are far less susceptible to wind damage.

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4. Large-flower gladiolus: The sword lilies are grown for their upright stems and trumpet-shaped orange, pink, red, yellow or white flowers in the mid to late summer.

Gladiolus reach 30cm to 1.5m tall (depending on the variety) and most are excellent for cutting and displaying in the house. In cold gardens, lift the corms and overwinter them under cover.

5. Lilies: A graceful group of plants (from 30cm to 240cm tall) with a dazzling and colourful array of bowl, trumpet or Turk’s cap-shaped flowers throughout the summer.

All are easy to grow in borders and containers and most emit delightful fragrances too. If you want to use lilies as cut bouquets indoors, search out varieties with pollen-free flowers as these won’t accidentally stain clothes and furniture.

Cambridge Edition | March 2012 | 59

10/2/12 10:37:57

HEALTH

ASK THE DOCTOR

DR RIKIN TRIVEDI Consultant Neurosurgeon, Nuffield Health Cambridge Hospital and Addenbrookes Hospital Cambridge

Dr Rikin Trivedi looks at how keyhole surgery, which is often performed as a day case procedure, has transformed the treatment options available to those with spinal problems

UST A FEW YEARS AGO, an individual requiring a spinal operation could expect to be in hospital for nearly a week and require a further three to six months before returning to normal function.

But with the advent of minimally invasive spine surgery techniques – also known as 'keyhole' surgery – all this is changing. What used to be very painful, debilitating and time-consuming surgery that often left large scars has turned into a relatively painless day case procedure performed through incisions less than the size of a two pence coin.

What is minimally invasive spinal surgery?

Traditional spine surgery techniques necessitate stripping muscles away from the bony spine that leaves them devitalised and weakened. Keyhole surgery however, uses a series of tubular dilators which are inserted through small incisions and spread the muscles rather than cutting them. The final working channel then gives direct visualisation of the area to be operated on, and the procedure is then performed using specially designed instruments.

Following the procedure, the tubular dilator is removed and the muscle and soft tissues fall back into place leaving just a small wound to close. There is usually very little blood loss and a reduced requirement for strong painkillers post-operatively.

Is the keyhole spine surgery technique available for all forms of spinal surgery?

No, and neither is it appropriate for all patients. That said, the realm of minimally invasive spine surgery is rapidly evolving and becoming more refined. At the moment there are three main areas of minimally invasive spine surgery being performed: lumbar degenerative disease (disc prolapse, spinal stenosis and lumbar fusion surgery), degenerative disease of the neck (cervical disc prolapse), and osteoporotic fractures

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(vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty). In Cambridge, we are also expanding the repertoire of minimally invasive spine surgery to include the treatment of unstable spine fractures, metastatic spread to the spine and infections of the spine.

What are the benefits of minimally invasive spine surgery?

Typically, keyhole surgery results in similar neurological outcomes to traditional spine surgery techniques. However, this technique tends to result in smaller scars, reduced blood loss, reduced usage of stronger, sedating painkillers, and shorter hospital stays.

Consequently, patients can expect a quicker return to their daily activities, including work. Many people will have this surgery performed as a day case procedure and will feel better after just a short while. With the ageing population, more and more people are suffering with spine-related problems, and as a result a greater number of people in their

eighties and nineties are being considered for surgery. The blood loss and morbidity associated with the ‘open’ surgical techniques is less well tolerated in this age group making the keyhole techniques an attractive option to offer this group a definitive surgical solution to their problem.

Is minimally invasive spine surgery safe?

If performed by experts in this field, keyhole surgery is as safe as 'open' spine surgery in the majority of individuals. The rate of serious complications is very low with both traditional and keyhole techniques.

Following keyhole surgery patients can expect a shorter hospital stay, reduced use of painkillers and a swifter return to normal activities

CAMBSEDITION.CO.UK

6/10/11 14:36:58

health

MR Mahmood Shafi Consultant gynaecological surgeon and oncologist

ask the doctor

In this month's health feature, consultant gynaecologist Mr Mahmood Shafi offers some invaluable advice for those of you concerned about menstruation problems eriod (menstruation) problems are a common symptom in women. Whilst the average woman’s cycle is 28 days long and the average period lasts three to five days, there can be huge variations in menstrual cycle from woman to woman. Women often have their own unique cycles and it is important to note any changes. Below are some of the most frequently raised questions and issues.

What if I miss a period?

This is common, especially in the first five to seven years after starting to have periods and also nearer to the menopause. Pregnancy is a common cause, but other factors such as stress, excessive weight gain or loss, increased exercise or illness can be a cause. If you miss two or more periods in a row, you should consult your doctor.

Is it true that I can’t be pregnant if I have a period?

Not necessarily. Women can experience bleeding in early pregnancy and this can be confused with a period. If you have other symptoms of pregnancy, then you should take a pregnancy test.

are my periods too heavy?

Most women will lose around 4 to 12 teaspoons of menstrual fluid during a period. If during the period you are using more than a tampon or pad every hour, or experience heavy clotting, then this suggests heavy periods and you should seek medical help. If you continue to have heavy periods over a long time, you may become anaemic with a feeling of general weakness, looking pale and easily getting tired.

If you do become anaemic, then treatment with iron supplements is required as well as treating the cause of the heavy periods.

are my periods lasting for too long?

Periods can last from two to seven days. If you are bleeding for longer than this, then you should seek medical help.

Can I get pregnant during a period?

Whilst the best chance to get pregnant is midcycle, a woman can conceive during any part of her menstrual cycle. To prevent pregnancy, contraception must be used throughout.

My periods are painful – what can I do?

Mr Shafi works at Cambridge Nuffield Health and is a consultant gynaecologist at Addenbrooke's Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Many women experience cramps during menstruation. This is caused by the uterus (womb) contracting. Painkillers can help relieve the symptoms and some also decrease the amount that you lose during the period.

Other women will find relief from simple measures such as a heating pad or hot water bottle on the lower back or stomach.

Taking a warm bath may also be soothing and relieve symptoms.

I bloat up just prior to my periods – what can I do?

This is a common symptom and can be aided by activity and eating healthily. Certain foods will cause bloating and you should try cutting these out from your diet when you experience such symptoms. Cutting salt in your diet, limiting caffeine and avoiding alcohol may also be helpful. Bloating can also be a symptom of PMS (premenstrual syndrome). If your symptoms are persistent and do not settle with these simple measures, you should consult your doctor.

I think my periods are slowing down – am I in the menopause?

Age is an important factor. The average age of menopause is around 52 years.

Many women experience their periods becoming less frequent or lighter prior to entering the menopause.

There may be symptoms such as hot flushes or dryness which is associated with reduced oestrogen. If symptoms are

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severe or there are distinct changes in your period which concern you, then always seek medical advice.

Cambridge Edition | July 2012 | 63

14/6/12 14:02:27

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Smiles all round at St Mary’s new Junior School St Mary’s School, Cambridge is delighted to welcome you to our new Junior School HE START OF the academic year 2011/12 has been a particularly exciting one at St Mary’s as the first phase of our new Junior School in Chaucer Road has been completed and opened.

The beautiful Victorian building has been transformed into an inspiring educational environment. The new Junior School boasts dedicated subject classrooms and an exceptional garden in which the girls can play.

Our girls are thrilled with the new building and it has been wonderful to watch them settle into their new surroundings.

Work is also now underway on our new PrePrep building, which we anticipate will open in the Summer Term 2012.

In another exciting development, all our girls are studying Mandarin as part of their curriculum. Languages have always been a strength at St Mary’s and all the girls, from the youngest in Reception to those in Year 6 are enjoying this new challenge.

CONTACT INFORMATION We would be delighted to invite you to visit our new Junior School and meet our dynamic and caring teachers.

Please contact Michelle Bottomley, our Admissions Manager, on 01223 224167 or email admissions@stmaryscambridge.co.uk to arrange an individual visit.

50 | Cambridge Edition | December 2011

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10/11/11 11:23:30

EDUCATION WORDS CHARLOTTE PHILLIPS

HOMEWORK: THE DEBATE Necessary evil, cornerstone of educational development or waste of time?

Charlotte Phillips takes a look at the controversial issue of school homework OMEWORK: we’ve all had to do it, our parents too in their time, and now it’s our children’s turn. So what’s it all about, Alfie? Answer on one side of the page only.

When it comes to natural partnerships, schools and homework trump everything including love and marriage. Or so you’d think given the legions of teachers across the globe who set those after-school tasks, and the collective international groan that must go up from the millions of school children charged with completing them.

Whisper it quietly, but anecdotal evidence suggests that in UK state schools, at least, children get more homework at an earlier age than they used to. “I don’t remember getting much homework – if any – at primary school. It seems to be very different now,” says one mum.

Government guidelines stipulate an hour a week for early primary school years, rising to 30 minutes a day at age 10 and 11. And if this nation’s children feel routinely hard done by, other countries fare far worse.

COMPETITIVE EDGE In one Canadian survey, almost threequarters of parents felt their children had more work to complete outside school compared with their own school days, while in Turkey there are stories of primaryage children taking up to three hours to complete their after-school tasks. In Japan’s pressurised education system, some youngsters even attend two schools a day in order to gain a competitive edge over their peers – known as Shiken Jigoku, which translates as examinations hell.

If imaginative and properly planned homework can bring an extra dimension to studies

As with so much else in today’s complex education system, there’s a divergence of views about what homework is actually for. It can have a purely pragmatic purpose, points out Nicholas Oulton, managing director of Galore Park Publishing, whose traditional textbooks are proving a hit with parents and schools. A former teacher, he has seen subjects such as Latin – still compulsory if your child is taking Common Entrance exams – squeezed out by subjects like PSHE (Personal Social Health & Economic education). Inevitably, some of those missing lessons spill over into out-of-school hours.

Other schools take the view that, if imaginative and properly planned, homework can bring an extra dimension to studies, giving students the chance to think in depth and bring creativity to an unexpected range

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ABOVE: Homework can be a useful tool for teachers to see where a pupil might be struggling and need some additional assistance

of subjects. Recently, one group of Year 7 students was encouraged to make a cell using any materials they wanted. The school was stunned by the results, including one creation made, of all things, cake.

It can also be a way of encouraging selfreliance – as well as helping teachers to work out where a student might need additional help. “It must be... about encouraging selfmotivation and taking responsibility, which for teenagers I think is great. In primary school, I guess it’s about getting them into good habits,” says Claire Usiskin, training and policy officer for the parent’s helpline at Young Minds, a national charity that seeks to improve the emotional wellbeing and

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