LUXOR, CREATOR OF JEWELRY TO DRINK W W W. G O L D E M O T I O N . C O M
I
’ve been involved with the hospitality industry for my entire working
life,
both
as
a
restaurateur
and
as
President
of
the Restaurant Association. The Nth Degree publication
is
the
first
book
I’ve
ever
created
and
being
presented
with
the
opportunity
to
showcase
London’s
most
sought-after
private dining rooms is a dream come true. The development
of
both
The
Nth
Degree
Club,
and
this
unique
private
dining
‘Bible’
has
only
been
possible
with
the
help
of
my
friends,
associates and peers. My grateful thanks go to them all.
The
Nth
Degree
Club
is
the
UK’s
first
Private Member’s Club to offer Captains of Industry the opportunity to build business relationships whilst enjoying unparalleled access to London’s most exclusive private dining rooms. Each Nth Degree dining event is carefully orchestrated to be a gourmet adventure during which members are taken on an extraordinary epicurean journey through the menus of London’s most coveted restaurants. The Nth Degree Club is not solely about fine-dining.
The
Member
events
are,
equally
importantly,
vehicles
where
like-minded
individuals
can
connect
with one another and forge professional and fruitful relationships in a productive environment,
whilst
savouring
some
of
the
finest
food
the
Capital
has
to
offer. It’s very powerful when you can bring together people around a table and offer them a unique dining experience. The Club deliberately welcomes professionals across diverse industry sectors to promote cross pollination and encourage creative business thinking. Attend an Nth Degree event and you could
find
yourself
seated
next
to
a
sports
professional,
an
investment
banker,
or
an
award-winning
actor.
02 THE N TH DEGREE
Becoming a member of the Nth Degree Club is also a conduit to an exclusive luxury lifestyle. Apart from gaining access to the best private dining rooms,
member
benefits
include
a
Small Luxury Hotels of the World card,
an
Etihad
Airways
Gold
Card
and membership to Quintessentially. Additionally,
members
benefit
from
exclusive promotions and preferential rates
with
an
ever-increasing
directory
of luxury brand partners. There is a distinct sense of caché to a private dining room. In industry circles it’s considered to be the elite enclave where
guests
can
enjoy
privacy,
bespoke
menus and a unique setting. Each dining room enjoys its own distinctive character,
flavour
and
ambience.
Some
boast
spectacular
views
of
London,
others offer an exclusive window to the
kitchen,
enabling
guests
the
opportunity
to
go
behind
the
scenes,
but there is one clear common denominator that unites all of the private dining rooms featured in this book – cuisine of outstanding quality developed
by
the
most
influential
chefs
cooking in the world today. Robert Walton MBE
THE N TH DEGREE 03
Andie Jones International Editor in Chief From
humble
beginnings
as
a
ski and rollerblade instructor, to media guru, there aren’t many things Andrew hasn’t written about, photographed, branded or represented in one way or another, in
the
last
25
years.
As
Editor in Chief and founder of The Player brand, as well as Managing Director of the publishing house, Andrew has accumulated a wealth of knowledge and a deep understanding of the luxury market. Callum Walton Assistant Editor Growing up at Trunkwell House a restaurant and Hotel in Berkshire, the hospitality industry is literally as they say in Callum’s blood. This book presented the perfect opportunity for Callum to assist the editor Andie Jones. He is now involved with The Nth Degree Club and is assisting the Club with its international publications. Paul James Griffiths Picture Editor Paul is self taught and began photography from an early age using 35mm
film.
He
has
since
developed
his skills and embraced the more recent moves in technology, converting
to
digital
in
2005.
As
a
very busy freelance photographer and with a passion for people, he has naturally specialised in all aspects of social photography which has taken him on commissions worldwide, capturing people in their environment and
surroundings.
Paul
has
worked
with
many
high
profile
clients
and at many prestigious venues and is now, also acting as our photographic editor on the Nth degree publications. Brett Burbridge Art Director A lover of all things design, Brett has worked on the creation and implementation of wealth and brand identites for large corporates. When not co directing his design agency bp design, he can be found illustrating his favourite children’s books
Harold
&
Franklin
which
he
produces
with
a
certain
Mr
Andie Jones. Bretts invaluable experience keeps The Nth Degree Book at the cutting edge of design.
04 the THEplayer N TH DEGREE
Jason Li Features Editor Jason Li is the business development manager for China and South East Asia at the Royal Garden Hotel. He is responsible for managing and growing both corporate and leisure group accounts, having moved internally from his previous role as general manager at Min Jiang, the hotel’s renowned Chinese restaurant. Jason also writes for two Chinese newspapers. Rebecca Jackson Motoring and Motorsports Editor Rebecca Jackson, an expert in all things automotive. She successfully runs RJ Prestige Cars selling and sourcing high end and executive motor vehicles. This is complemented with online and TV presenting for motorsport and car reviews. You will find
her
writing
in
titles
including
The
Sunday
Times
and
Autoexpress.
To
complete
the
ensemble,
UK
circuits
are
her
second
home
where
she races in the BRSCC Porsche Boxster Championship as part of her four-year
quest
to
compete
at
Le
Mans
24
Hour.
Expect
to
read
about
her racing exploits, tails of press invitations to launches and events, write ups of factory tours from the likes of Rolls Royce and Bentley, and in depth reviews of exotic sports cars. Jessica Westermeyer The Private Dining Guide Editor After leaving the fashion industry in her native Cape Town in search of a career change, Jessica found herself excelling in the high end events industry in London with stints in New York and Dublin paving the way. Her passion for good food, wine and company led her to the Nth Degree Club as Events Coordinator. Constantly seeking out the best private dining experiences and unique events for members and guests, Jess is enthusiastic and curious in her search for culinary delights.
130 34 71 160
Front Cover Albert Roux
Mandarin Oriental One of London’s iconic landmarks reveals its inner secrets
50 Nth Degree race car High octane adrenalin fuelled fun for members
Dougray Scott Hollywood actor and patron of the Nth Degree Club
42 Old Head Spectacular beyond belief
The Private Dining Room Guide A stunning selection of London’s private eateries revealed
134 Azimut 95 The epitomy of life aboard the ocean wave
Kuda Huraa Paradise found amidst the Maldavian atolls
ED’S BRIEF When Bob Walton rang me back in December and asked for a meeting on the day after Boxing Day, I should have known then that it wasn’t going to be the usual start to the year. My usual role as Editor in Chief of The Player Bookazine was about to be put on hold and various commitments to travel and family likewise. Bob’s idea was to produce a book for his Nth Degree members as well as prospective members. However, I didn’t realise he wanted the whole thing from conception to delivery within two months. Ever the optimist, I hesitantly agreed and here we are, just over two months later, with Bob’s wish coming true and what I can only describe as a true masterpiece in publishing, a testimony to all the hard work that
has
gone
into
producing
it.
I
would
firstly
like
to
thank
my fantastic editorial team for going above and beyond the call of duty, and our design team, without whom you would most
definitely
not
be
reading
this. Sincere thanks to our truly brilliant printers in Estonia who pulled it out of the bag at the last minute to get the print, binding
and
delivery
organised.
And
finally,
to
Mr
Bob
Walton
himself, who by sheer determination and belief in us and himself, pulled everyone together to make this book happen. It’s been a change from my usual role, but I’m now swapping caps for a few months and heading back into Player territory. However, we will be back with another issue of the Nth Degree book in the autumn. It only leaves me to say I really hope you enjoy the following pages of what I think is a super informative read with a pictorial feast for the eyes! Andie Jones International Editor in Chief
Whilst every effort is made to maintain the accuracy of information and images portrayed within this publication, no responsibility whatsoever can be accepted for errors or ommisions.
THE NTH DEGREE CLUB,
Avenfield
House
118-127
Park
Lane
London
W1K
7AF
www.thenthdegreeclub.com
THE N TH DEGREE 05
I am often asked how I define success... It’s a question I’ve considered throughout my career. After all, how do we improve if not by seeking ways to measure our success and failure? Long before I could articulate any sort of answer to this question, I had an innate sense that we know the quality of our experiences through the memories they leave behind. Many of life’s moments come and go without a trace but when an experience moves us, affecting us in some deep way, the memory stays with us forever. Eventually I realized that this is what inspires and unites our restaurant teams, myself included:
playing
a
part
in
defining
of
our
guests’
fondest
memories.
While
accolades
and
honors
have their place, truly it is through our guests’ recollections that we know our success.
As President of The Restaurant Association and Founder of The Nth Degree Club, this is a notion that Bob Walton understands completely. The Nth Degree Club is indeed proof of his insatiable desire to innovate ways of bringing people together to form new and lasting memories. Each month he gathers his members for bespoke meals presented by phenomenal chefs like Heston Blumenthal, Daniel Boulud, Jason Atherton, Claude Bosi, Richard Corrigan and more. Though centered on furthering business relationships and friendships around the dining table, The Club reaches beyond to travel, sporting and adventure because these also bring people together, each providing their own brands of camaraderie and excitement that live on in our memories for years to come. Still, the pleasures of the table are what Bob and I know best. We have seen how heartfelt hospitality, brought to life through great food and wine, has the power to forge memories that last a lifetime. During our respective careers we have also witnessed a dramatic evolution of the culinary profession, giving us both the ability to reach beyond the kitchen. It has been my privilege to become an author and, knowing what that has meant to me, I’m delighted that
Bob
has
finally
found
the
time
(in
itself one of the greatest challenges for someone so active) to do the same. Considering his longstanding role as a leader for the hospitality industry, and having enjoyed the fruits of his intellect many times before, I know just how much we stand to gain from his writing.
Only someone with Bob’s deep knowledge and appreciation of entertaining at the highest level could have penned the guide that you now hold. It will transport you into the unique spaces that the world’s great restaurants reserve for their most exclusive functions. Even in establishments that are brilliantly designed and skillfully orchestrated, private dining rooms offer restaurateurs an unparalleled capacity for tailored experiences. Rooms may be grand or simple, entirely hidden or barely tucked away. But what they all have in common is a separation – from the rest of the dining room and from a sense of the ordinary – that makes an occasion truly special, enhancing the wonderful memories guests take away. For those who have not had the opportunity to experience these spaces themselves,
Bob
offers
a
first
glimpse
behind the curtain to see what often amounts to the purest expression of a chef or restaurateur’s vision. And for others, like the members of The Nth
Degree
Club,
who
know
firsthand
the value of spending time together in such marvelous settings, the guide will serve as a starting point for their next epicurean adventure. Like so many of the things Bob has given us, this book and the enjoyment it brings will become another experience for all to share, a new connection uniting members of The Nth Degree Club and likeminded individuals everywhere, inspiring us to continue forging meaningful and lasting memories together. We are grateful to him for this and so much more. Thomas Keller
06 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 07
T
he term ‘celebrity chef’ is considered by many to be a recent innovation in the hospitality industry but as long ago as 1812 Antonin Careme was feted in a similar manner by the who’s who of society in France. The ‘must have’ ticket in those days was usually organised by Talleyrand the great politician and
grand
viveur
whose
influence
allowed Careme to cook for the likes of Napoleon, Marie Antoinette, the Tsar Alexander and even our Prince Regent. Thanks to the generosity of the Rothschild’s Careme was persuaded to share his talents here in London, the parties continued and the reputation of gastronomy grew and grew and has continues to do so today. So how do we get invited to these marvellous dining parties and sample the fantastic food that London has to offer? The answer lies in the private dining rooms of London’s great hotels and restaurants where the chefs of great enormous reputation parade their knowledge and expertise to those who consider themselves gourmets; that is those who share
fine
wine
and
food
with
their friends and colleagues. This guide to private dining rooms is the most comprehensive ever published it contains all one needs
to
know
to
give
the
finest
gastronomic experience, be it lunch or dinner, of all time and I believe will be a constant source of reference for all great gourmets. Brian Turner CBE
08 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 09
SGC, the new secret Grand Vin of Bordeaux
SGC - le Secret
des Grands Chefs Arpad Busson’s
famously
discerning
eye
has
been
drawn
to
the
world
of
luxury
wine.
With
the
same
razor
sharp
20/20
vision
which
discovered hedge fund superstars, Paul Tudor Jones and Louis Bacon
and
others,
Arki
has
identified
a
new
trailblazer:
SGC
(Le
Secret des Grands Chefs); A secret wine set to take the traditionalist Bordeaux
wine
industry
by
storm.
In
SGC,
Busson
has
discovered
a
new
venture
and
a
story
so
rare,
that
he
declares,
“It
has
to
be
tasted
to
be
believed”:
the
creation
of
a
new
Grand
Vin
de
Bordeaux. The wine, which has been sparking whispers of excitement for some time, is now attracting accolades from experts and wine connoisseurs alike. World renowned wine critic, Michel Bettane described
the
SGC
wine
in
eloquent
terms - going on to covet the Medoc, he commented: “ You transcend the Medoc gentlemen, This is a true secret of great chefs!
You
surpass
my
knowledge
of
Medoc
with
this
wine!
A
grain
so
fine
is
rare.
You
have
done
it
better
than
any
existing
Medoc
appellation
today.” With the unprecedented involvement of World Champion Sommelier, Gerard Basset, MW, MS, OBE; three Michelin 3 star chefs, Yannick Alleno, Frederic Anton and Bruno Menard and one Michelin 2 star chef, Alain Dutournier, SGC’s arrival prompts echoes of Busson’s own tried and tested formula, marrying
passionate
entrepreneurialism
with world-class expertise. Following a meeting with SGC’s founder, Arnaud Christiaens, Arki
12 THE N TH DEGREE
became fascinated with the ambition and innovation of the project. After sampling the wine during a blind tasting with top experts (where it beat the
famous
first
growths
hands
down),
he had no hesitation in joining forces, making a considerable investment in the
company. Four
years
in
the
making,
SGC
is
the
brainchild of oenophile, Christiaens, who made a departure from his successful career
in
finance
to
focus
on
a
lifelong
passion for the wines of Bordeaux. Arnaud’s plan was to push the frontiers of production as far as possible, his ultimate
goal:
the
seemingly
impossible
feat of creating a new Grand Vin. Investing
in
underdeveloped
but
exquisite
Bordeaux terroir, (undiscovered at the time
of
classification
in
1855),
Arnaud
equipped
the
producers
(often
small,
boutique
producers)
with
the
means
and technical expertise to produce wine with
a
level
of
quality
and
production
previously
unimaginable
for
them.
The result is a world class 2009 inaugural vintage collection comprising four new wines from four secret parcelles of Bordeaux appellations: Pomerol, Pauillac, St Emillion Grand Cru and Medoc. The wine has been given
gold
-
standard
approval
by
the
SGC ambassadors, the Michelin star chefs, with overall executive approval from Basset. The process, a meticulous procedure of crop
reduction
involving
early
pruning
allows the remaining grapes on each vine
to
gain
in
quality
and
concentration
whilst
intensifying
in
complexity.
For
future parcelles, Christiaens wants to push the limits even further. Careful scientific
study
on
the
soil
has
revealed
that crops are often planted at the wrong
place
on
a
specific
parcelle
for
a
particular
grape
-
a
Merlot
may
be
planted where a Sauvignon should be and visa versa. Transferring these vines is a long and expensive process often taking up to a decade to produce
grapes at the top level; A process, nonetheless which SGC is committed to implementing. The results speak for themselves.
vintages will remain the exclusive
The SGC service is as astounding as the wine itself. Members will be afforded a direct line to Gerard Basset OBE,
who
will
specifically
recommend
how
to
enjoy
the
bottles
to
their
best
advantage.
Delivery
is
available
within
connoisseur
in
mind.
The
wine
will
very
soon be the private domain of dedicated collectors, a closed secret garden for SGC members, like a hedge fund that becomes hard closed to investment.
one hour via the SGC app (for London collectors). The collection can also be purchased at Hedonism Wines, Mayfair,
or
via
www.sgcboutique.com
domain of SGC’s members. “I
was
fascinated
by
the
SGC
collection
which has been created with the real
With the notable difference that a hedge
fund
can
always
reopen
to
raise
new
money,
but
a
production
is
limited
to
what
the
soil
can
give
you.”
Arpad Busson Production of the inaugural 2009 vintage is restricted at 41,728 (75 cl) “I’m delighted to introduce this new bottles worldwide, with over half of ‘Grand Vin…We have done our utmost the
2009
vintage
already
sold.
to deliver the best wine we could Purchase
of
the
2009
automatically
possibly
create
and
we
hope
that
grants membership to the SGC Circle you
will
get
as
much
pleasure
out
but once the 2009 vintage is sold out, of drinking them as we did creating the
club
will
close.
Only
those
buying
them.
There
are
many
secrets
yet
to
the 2009 vintage will be entitled to access further vintages. All future
Written
by
Nouska
Hanly
come.
Many
said
it
was
impossible....” Arnaud Christiaens
THE N TH DEGREE 13
eton properties Windsor and Eton, in Royal Berkshire, are probably best known for two of Britain’s great landmarks-Windsor Castle and Eton College. Windsor Castle is a royal residence in the heart of Windsor. The
Castle
is
open
all
year
round
but
with
closures
on
specific
days. There are many things to see and do inside the castle including Queen Anne’s Dollhouse, The State Apartments and St George’s Chapel.
Eton College has been educating boys for almost six centuries and is one of the most successful public schools in
there are both private and public boating opportunities on the River Thames, so the area is rich in heritage, culture and
Michelin stars. Just outside Windsor is The Royal Oak at Paley Street which also has a Michelin star (run by
England, educating 19 of Britain’s prime ministers and royalty from around the world including our own Princes, William and Harry. Guided tours of the college are available from March until
sporting events. Nearby to Windsor is the village of Bray which is a gastronomic centre
Michael Parkinson’s son) and the Green Oak gastropub at Oakley Green-both highly recommended.
of excellence. There are well known restaurants here such as The Fat Duck, Waterside Inn and Hinds Head, which are
world
famous
and
benefit
from
There are many restaurants in Windsor itself, including Browns (which is buzzy and great for families), the Bel and Dragon (which is part of a local group)
October annually. Both of these historic buildings attract thousands of visitors to the area every year, as does the stretch of the River Thames
that
flows
between
Windsor
and Eton on the edge of Windsor Great Park, home of The Long Walk. Windsor Great Park is set in 2200 hectares of parkland and includes a deer park, gardens and woodland. It also offers amazing views of Windsor Castle and, in some places, the London skyline. Within the Great Park is Savill Garden, created in 1930, that offers 35 acres of contemporary and classical gardens for visitors to explore. Windsor is also home to well-known sporting events. For race goers there are regular meetings at Windsor race track and for lovers of horses generally the Royal Windsor Horse Show is a spectacle of riding skills and country stalls. Throughout the summer months there is much polo played in the area including at Guards, in the Great Park itself. In May there is the PGA golf championship at Wentworth, Royal Ascot is in mid- June and the Windsor Castle Concourse d’Elegance for classic cars is held in September. In addition,
14 THE N TH DEGREE
and the Windsor Grill. There is a good choice of Italian restaurants too with Carluccios in Windsor town centre and
renovated, landmark riverside building and provide luxury accommodation for
Caldesi in Bray. You may also wish to check out Coworth Park in Ascot, which you can reach by a pleasant drive through Windsor Great Park and is part
The properties are a short walk from both Eton College and Windsor Castle.
of the Dorchester Group. It has two restaurants-one in the converted barn and the other in the main house. Well worth a visit and often has set lunch offers available. There is a lot to do for children of all ages (including some who have not yet grown up entirely!). Legoland is world famous and ,for younger children, there is Bekonscot model village and Odds Farm Park, a
those wanting to stay in Eton and Windsor.
Windsor Great Park and Windsor’s shops, theatre and restaurants are easily accessible and provide stunning scenery and cosmopolitan diversity. They are close to the M3, M4 and M25 motorways and are within easy reach of Heathrow, Gatwick and Farnborough international airports. Windsor’s two mainline train stations are also within a few minutes’ walk and the properties are close to London, Legoland and the sporting and concert venues that comprise the English Season.
children’s animal farm, not far from Our luxury accommodation consists Beaconsfield.
For
the
older
crew,
there
of three townhouses with their own is Thorpe Park (including its fright nights) entrances. All are furnished to the and Chessington World of Adventures. highest
standards
complete
with
flat
Finally, there are two Go Ape adventure screen TVs in every room, broadband/ parks, one in Berkshire and another just wifi,
central
music
systems
with
ipad
across the border in Buckinghamshire. and ipod coonection, Italian kitchens, Most of these attractions are open from luxury en-suite bathrooms and mid-March to the end of October but professionally designed interiors. Each check their websites for more details. Classical Britain owns three new properties located at the top of Eton High Street by Windsor footbridge. These townhouses form part of a newly
of the townhouses has a roof terrace with views of Windsor, the River Thames and Windsor Castle and come fully equipped with luxury linen, towels and a full range of appliances and utensils.
The
blazers
show
a
hint
of
gingham
linings,
or
thin
stripes
with
coloured
piping;
the
Established in 1970 Pal Zileri is founded on the sophistication of fabrics, and some of the finest selections and limited production ranges in the world. These
see
their
way
into
a
fine
bespoke
range: the Sartoriale, a classically elegant ready-to-wear collection: Pal Zileri, an extensive tuxedo collection:
honest, a certain nostalgia for an era of exquisite
tailoring.
Lab.Pal
Zileri,
is
more
about
looking
to
the
future;
nothing
about
nostalgia. New generations are far less
Cerimonia.Pal Zileri and a functional sportswear
range
called
Lab.Pal
Zileri.
To
complete
the
total
look
of
this
European
aristocratic
profile,
the
brand
devoted to traditional suiting than their parents,
and
right
now
they
don’t
care
overly
about
tradition,
they
want
to
be
in on the moment – they want to catch a
provides
styling
throughout
the
ranges,
with an extensive leather luggage range, a fragrance line of evocative themes, fine
hand-made
leather
shoes,
fine
cool wool & cashmere scarves, and a
trend
just
before
it
breaks.
Our
skill
is
to
try
and
be
in
precisely
the
right
moment
for them!” Pal
Zileri’s
collections
are
all
created
and
developed
out
of
the
extensive
production
multitude
of
silk
ties
and
belts:
all
create
the
signature
look
of
effortless
elegance
for
both
Pal
Zileri,
and
the
younger
line
Lab.Pal
Zileri.
As
Design
Director
Yvan
headquarters in Vicenza where the surroundings
are
pristine,
and
the
hum
of
activity
emanates
efficiency
and
structure
built
out
of
years
of
experience.
Benbanaste
explains:
“The
main
line,
The headquarters are also the focal
Pal
Zileri,
is
all
about
tradition
and,
to
be
point
for
all
the
buyers
to
gather
from
casualwear showcases luxury materials such
as
ultra
-
light
sophisticated
fabrics
for
waterproof
jackets
and
field
jackets
in
cotton
and
silk,
waterproof
stretch
overcoats with nylon, allowing freedom of
movement
and
coloured
crepe
linens
or
madras
fabrics
mixed
with
suede.
THE RANGES Pal Zileri.Abito Privato made to measure service
for
fine
executive
suits Pal Zileri.Sartoriale the exclusive suit collection
with
a
hand-finished
tailored
construction Pal Zileri. Main line ready-to-wear collection
for
suits,
jackets,
coats,
trousers and more Pal Zileri.Lab, informal leisure collection with
knitwear,
suits
and
coats Pal Zileri.Cerimonia, for tuxedos, formal wear and wedding suits Lab.Pal Zileri.
Younger
in
lines,
and
textures
for
a
sportier
look.
all over the world, and it is here that they can view the collections, directly at source,
working
with
the
designers
and
sales
teams
within
the
walls
of
Forall’s
elegantly restored Italian villa.
Chris Hemsworth, Gordon Ramsey and
Many internationally renowned names from
the
world
of
movies,
sports
and
others
have
made
Pal
Zileri
their
best
collections are the lightness and comfort for
the
fits
and
fabrics,
focusing
on
kept
secret
and
just
recently
Pal
Zileri
has enjoyed the lime light dressing Rod
Stewart,
Daniel
Dubiecki,
Mickey
Rourke,
Ben
Barnes,
Tom
Chambers,
Colin
Salmon,
Dominic
Monaghan,
youngest
Michelin
Chef
Aiden
Byrne,
currently
cooking
the
Great
British
menu
at
the
Royal
Albert
Hall.
THE STORES
Key
concepts
for
the
Spring
&
Summer
Pal
Zileri
.
125
New
Bond
Street
Mayfair
London
W1S
1DY
Tel:
+44
(0)20
7493
9711
natural
textures
such
as
wools,
silks
and
linens.
The
exclusive
fabrics
are
produced
with
special
blends
such
as
wool-linen-mohair
or
wool-silk-linen
and cashmere. The
colour
palette
goes
from
tones
of
grays
mixed
with
lavender
blue
or
sky
blues
combined
with
cyclamen.
Light
grays
are
enhanced
by
antique
pink
while
natural
colours
are
merged
with
sharp
brick
colour
–
red.
The summer garments within the collection
include
pastel
jackets
in
wool,
linen, and mohair.
16 THE N TH DEGREE
Pal
Zileri
.
44
Hans
Crescent
London
SW1X
0LZ
Tel:
+44
(0)20
7225
2999
Cerimonia. Pal Zileri 16
Brook
Street
London
W1S
1BE
Tel:
+44
(0)20
7493
2280 Harvey
Nichols
London,
Leeds,
Manchester
and
Edinburgh Pal
Zileri
and
Lab.Pal
Zileri
at
Westfield
London,
The
Luxury
Village,
White
City
–
Tel
+44(0)20
8749
2820 www.palzileri.com twitter
@palzileri Facebook
=
Pal
Zileri
www.quadernodistile.com
THE N TH DEGREE 17
dual
The long arm of corporate law knows few national boundaries. Dual Corporate Risks’ Russell Kilpatrick, says that for the growing number of senior company executives caught in the international
legal
minefield,
fighting
extradition
can
be
an
expensive business.
A small bead of sweat will have rolled down the forehead of more than one senior company executive on learning recently that an Australian equity research analyst was arrested in Hong
more aggressive US authorities. Indeed, the internet complicates liability considerably. As many directors of online gaming sites have found to their cost,
Kong on US insider trading charges -
off-shore incorporation may reduce company tax, but it does not immunise
and now faces up to 25 years in jail for allegedly
making
just
£5000
profit
using
you from prosecution if your business is deemed to contravene US law.
privileged information.
From a company director’s perspective
Whether the potential punishment is heavy handed or not rather misses the
this is not about moral or legal ambiguity. Insider trading is, after all, a criminal activity across the globe. Rather, the
point. The case shows the determination of international authorities in general and the US in particular to pursue their anti-white collar crime agenda across borders; even if, as in this case, the alleged
profit
was
relatively
minor.
The simple truth is that the international legal backdrop to the business world has changed. Business practices considered normal and acceptable for decades are now being openly questioned and investigated under new legislation. Meanwhile, the internet’s global accessibility means companies, and their directors, are vulnerable to prosecution in any country in which their business operates or takes money. Financial services, defence contractors, internet gambling and gaming are just some of the industries to fall foul of ever
18 THE N TH DEGREE
Extradition support should be a fundamental part of all Directors
the very reason they should be on it. Of course, no policy can or should
&
Officers
(D&O)
liability
insurance
policies. On top of covering legal expenses there are myriad other potential costs involved with such cases - not least the cost of long-term family
cover criminal or illegal activities. If a policyholder is found personally guilty their D&O insurers will seek to recover any costs incurred. However, we would strongly recommend any business
visits and accommodation. As ever with such policies, the devil is in the detail.
Many
policies
we
see
specifically
exclude the US and Canada. While this
executive whose business interests cover multiple territories to check the precise wording of their policy. It certainly makes for a less stressful
might reduce the premium, the very fact they are excluded is, of course,
experience
when
flicking
through
the
international law pages.
In an article in the New York Law Journal late last year entitled New International Focus On Prosecution Of White-Collar Crime, former Federal prosecutor Michael M. Rosensaft wrote: “The legal complexities particular to international white-collar cases begin with the extradition request itself. Fighting extradition is an extremely complex and
difficult
prospect.
If
an
extradition
challenge is to be successful, it normally must be brought in the foreign court danger
is
in
finding
oneself
charged
with the aid of local counsel.” under fast-changing international But
fighting
extradition
is
inevitably
business law and a heightened costly. Unsurprisingly, expertise prosecutorial environment in which in international corporate law and extradition requests are now the norm extradition treaties does not come and not the exception. cheap. Few readers will need Ask yourself whether you know the letter of company law in every country in which you do business, particularly if your company sells its goods or services via the internet. Is your business completely compliant in every country? Do you understand where and how legal jurisdictions apply to you and your business? What about the extradition agreements between where you live and those jurisdictions where your business operates and where you travel - even on holiday?
reminding of the infamous case of the ‘NatWest Three’ whose four year battle against extradition to the US became a cause célebre in the UK but which bankrupted the trio and ultimately ended with the three serving time in US jails. The media and public’s propensity to support well-paid investment bankers is not the only thing to have changed in the intervening decade. If anything, the desire to prosecute and enforce extradition has been on a steady rise.
Russell Kilpatrick is executive chairman of London-based DUAL Corporate Risks which has been providing
first
class
protection
for
executives across the world for ten years. Its parent, the DUAL Group, is the world’s largest international underwriting agency. The Group has 21
offices
in
14
countries
and
can
transact business in most countries. www.dualcorporaterisks.com
THE N TH DEGREE 19
Maria Kempinska is an award winning businesswoman, a mother of two and a tireless charity worker. But she is perhaps best known for her huge contribution to British comedy. As founder of the successful Jongleurs Comedy Clubs,
Maria
has
played
a
defining
role in helping to make the UK stand-up scene the roaring success that it is today. Few people could have stood in a room above a pub in Battersea back in 1983 and seen the future of British comedy. But that’s exactly what Maria did. Using her bicycle as collateral to fund the project, she set out to form a chain of fun venues from that humble room - which smelled of sticky carpets and Stella Artois! Thanks to her perseverance and passion for comedy, Maria built up one of the most successful brands in the entertainment industry. Comedians who cut their teeth at Jongleurs include Mickey Flanagan, Michael
McIntyre,
Harry
Enfield,
Eddie
Izzard, Jo Brand, Jack Dee, Paul Merton, David Baddiel, Frank Skinner, Dara O Briain … plus many more. In 2009, Maria was awarded the MBE for services to the entertainment and hospitality industry. Jongleurs had joined forces with Regent Inns, but when Regent Inns later collapsed, Maria set about rebuilding the Jongleurs brand for the second time through her own unique mix of energy and enthusiasm. In addition to her achievements in entertainment, Maria sits on the board of Women In Business for the Duke of Edinburgh Awards Scheme, with the Countess of Wessex. Maria is also friend of the Terrence Higgins Trust, and works with leading charities including Cancer Research, Soldiering On and Coming Home. She is a regular guest on TV & radio, talking about business and comedy on programs like Woman’s Hour, Trisha and other top-rated shows on ITV, BBC and Channel 4. Maria jokes that she intends to sleep only when she is dead!
20 THE N TH DEGREE
Maria Kempinska always credits her mother and father for having had an inspirational
and
beneficial
influence
on
her life. Her Polish parents were both highly educated people, who had been captured by the Russians and kept as prisoners of war in Siberia. When they were freed, they immediately joined the Polish Free Army, which fought alongside the British 8th Army in World War II. During this time, Maria’s parents lost their family, their friends, their homes, their future and their country during the course of some of the worst horrors of the war in Europe. These traumas affected her parents badly, to the extent that she describes her family of brothers and sisters as having been born “on a bed of hope and despair”, in
a
one
bedroom
flat
in
Paddington.
Her
mother, who had been a mathematician and
an
officer
in
the
army,
worked
as
a cleaner, while her father, who was a trained barrister, worked in a factory to feed his two sons and two daughters. The family moved to South Oxhey, just outside Watford, where Maria recalls that the majority of the people on the estate on which they lived were friendly. To escape from their tough circumstances, Maria’s family placed their faith in the power of education, so as soon as they were old enough, the children had to study, help around the house and work, something Maria started doing at the age of 11. Along with her brothers and sisters, Maria helped out at home as her mother made Christmas crackers to earn some much-needed extra money, while her father worked two factory shifts every
day except Sundays. This application to hard work has persisted throughout her life, and Maria’s intensely proud of all the less-than-glamorous jobs she’s done over the years, such as factory work and cold calling, to make ends meet. Nonetheless, Maria looks back on her childhood
as
a
fulfilling
and
fun
time,
while she remembers growing up “in a world of joyous rebellion, resentment and feisty fun”. She found herself attracted to the performing arts and developed an interest in psychology, but Maria’s father couldn’t see a future for her in the theatre or in psychiatry, so she studied instead to become a teacher. Maria’s voluntary charity work started at an early age as she felt drawn to helping others. She worked as a volunteer in a Victorian-era psychiatric hospital when she was 17, then at the age of 21, she was a Samaritan with the Reverend Chad Varah, who founded the organisation in 1953. Over the years, Maria’s created numerous shows to raise funds for charitable causes and her work in this field
continues.
Maria started Jongleurs after the Edinburgh Festival in the early 80s, at the same time that she was offered the chance to sing and dance in the theatre. This is where she felt her vocation lay, but she had just started Jongleurs, so after some soul-searching, she chose to turn down her ‘dream job’ and the journey into comedy began. Around this time began what Maria describes as “the best years of my life”, because her children were born and she was able to work doing something that she loved.
The clubs soon grew into a UK wide brand, in partnership with Regent Inns. Maria and her business partner John ran the comedy while Regent Inns ran the operational side, until they went into administration in 2009. Maria then went about rebuilding Jongleurs.
Maria was delighted and honoured when she was awarded an MBE for Entertainment and Leisure in 2008, but we can be certain that this won’t be the last public recognition that this remarkable, passionate and versatile woman receives for her varied endeavours.
Maria proudly states “I’ve always been good at making things happen”, so although she had a brand but no clubs, she opened one within a month of Regent Inns going into administration. From that time on, reviving Jongleurs has been her main job.
Charity: Maria has been involved in active charitable work from the age of 17, when she worked as a volunteer at a Victorianera psychiatric hospital, then she worked for the Samaritans when she was 21. Over the years, she has helped a variety of charities by means of fund-raising events, while she’s a friend of the Terence Higgins Trust and she works closely with Cancer Research as well.
in 2004, Maria was awarded her MA in Psychotherapy and Healing, having been inspired by her reading of the works of Carl Gustav Jung. She loved the psychotherapy and
healing
course
because
it
gave
a
firm
structure to the things that she felt she instinctively knew and had been drawn to read about for so many years. With this qualification,
Maria’s
able
to
practice
psychotherapy, and she’s now in the 4th of 6 years of her PhD in Psycho-analysis at Essex University.
More recently, Maria has worked with the military charities Soldiering On and Coming Home, where volunteers from the military are trained as standup comedians for charity nights, which Jongleurs help to organise. Maria also arranges for professional comedians to come along to mentor and train the volunteers.
THE N TH DEGREE 21
New
York.
These
offices
were
recently
re-established
by
the
bank
(Boston
in
2011
and
New
York
in
2012).
Trade
in
Hamburg
blossomed,
over
the
next
100
years,
and
Berenberg
became
a
founding
shareholder
of
several
European
banks
including
the
Hongkong
and
Shanghai
Banking
Corporation
(HSBC).
More
than
four
centuries
since
its
establishment,
Berenberg
opened
its
operations
in
London
in
Threadneedle
Street
in
the
heart
of
the
City
in
2003.
This
is
also
home
to
the
Bank
of
England,
affectionately
known
as
the
Old
Lady
of
Threadneedle Street. Berenberg
offers
intellectual
and
objective
advice
to
institutional
and
private
clients,
through
comprehensive
equity
research
and
public
market
intelligence
and
a
range
of
transparent
and
sophisticated
investment
solutions
across
execution,
advisory
and
berenberg
discretionary
mandates.
The
London
office
has
150
employees
including
70
Berenberg
is
a
privately
owned
banking
partnership,
founded
in
1590
and
managed
by
three
personally
unlimited
partners
who,
together
with
the
founding
Berenberg
family
own
more
than
50%
of
the
bank.
Today
Berenberg
is
a
leading
financial
institution
in
Europe
with
proven
expertise
in
private
and
investment
banking,
asset
management
and
corporate
banking.
Berenberg’s
unique
partnership
liability
model
is
highly
relevant
for
the
new
world
order
where
trust
and
integrity
are
the
cornerstone.
Hans
and
Paul
Berenberg
were
financiers
to
about
1000
of
their
Dutch
countrymen
who
had
moved
to
Hamburg,
a
booming
harbour
city
in
1590,
when
the
company
business.
This
culture
of
supporting,
facilitating
and
advising
clients
remains
firmly
in
place
to
this
day.
During
the
French
Revolution
Amsterdam
occupied
Hamburg
in
1806,
and
the
economy
stagnated
under
the
imposition
of
a
continental
embargo.
Hamburg
recovered
quickly,
partly
thanks
to
began.
They
lent
money
to
customers
and
made
advance
payments
on
deliveries
of
their
suppliers.
Hamburg’s
went
out
of
commission
as
an
exchange
centre
and
the
Hanseatic
finance
houses
such
as
Berenberg
took
over.
loans
from
London,
always
an
important
partner,
then
and
to
this
day.
During
the
1800s
Berenberg
looked
role
as
a
major
centre
for
global
trade
also
made
currency
exchange
vital.
Over
time,
shipping
and
insurance
formed
a
natural
complement
to
the
traditional
The
Hanseatic
merchants
increasingly
assumed
a
role
in
raising
of
funds
for
governmental
authorities,
in
particular
England.
The
Napoleonic
troops
towards the “new world” and the son of
Johan
Heinrich
Gossler
II
was
sent
to
the
USA
to
establish
economic
ties,
and
set
up
branches
in
both
Boston
and
22 THE N TH DEGREE
equity
analysts
covering
almost
500
of
interests
between
senior
staff
and
companies
across
8
sectors.
clients
to
a
surprising
level.
Even
after
Berenberg’s
unique
ownership
and
managing
partners
leave
the
bank,
forward
looking
advisory
approach
they
remain
personally
liable
for
all
appeals
to
self
made
as
well
as
commitments
for
a
further
five
years.
As
traditional
private
wealth.
As
a
privately
the
previous
partners
still
have
a
working
interest
in
the
business,
the
strategy
the
bank
pursues
is
on
a
long
time
approach.
Not
surprisingly,
then,
organic
growth
remains
the
strategy
as
Berenberg
responsibility
which
enable
Berenberg
to
continues
to
listen
to
their
clients
needs
and
grow
strong
relationships
which
will
be
genuinly
relationship
-led.
Berenberg
Bank
takes
the
alignment
last
inter-generationally.
owned
bank
Berenberg
allows
its
staff
to
be
entirely
focused
upon
its
clients.
The
bank’s
culture
focuses
on
personal
commitment,
trust
and
at a glance
1550 Jan
Berenberg
trades
in
Antwerp,
then
the
richest
and
busiest
city
in
Europe 1585 Berenberg
family
leave
Belgium
and
move
to
Hamburg,
Germany 1590 Bank
established
by
Hans
and
Paul
Berenberg
II 1600s to 1700s Trading
business
expands,
including
banking 1768 Johann
Hinrich
Gossler
marries
into
family,
company
renamed
Johann
Berenberg
&
Gossler
&
Co 1798 Gossler’s
son
Johann
Heinrich
joins.
He
sends
his
son
tot
he
US,
an
emerging
market.
He
later
returns
to
the
Hamburg
bank 1847 Bank
co-founds
Hapag,
Norddeutsche
Versicherungs
AG
(1857),
Hamburg
Vereinsbank
(1856)
1865 Co-founds
Hong
Kong
and
Shanghai
Banking
Corporation
(HSBC),
Den
Danske
Landmandsbank
(1871),
Svenska
Handelsbanken
(1871) 1932 Rapid
rise
of
National
Socialist
politics
forces
Berenberg
to
exist
as
a
consolidated
holding
company 1948 Berenberg
re-opens
for
business 1988 Starts
private
banking
in
Switzerland 2003 Investment
banking
operations
launched
in
London 2010 Starts
private
banking
in
Austria 2011 Begins
private
banking
in
London.
Group
is
managed
by
Hans-Walter
Peters
(since
2000),
Andreas
Brodtmann
and
Hendrik
Riehmer
(both
since
2009)
THE N TH DEGREE 23
Pedini London
- more than just a kitchen showroom!
24 THE N TH DEGREE
As founding Corporate Members of the Nth Degree Club, Pedini London and its parent company Lida Cucina, are making arrangements to engage a Michelin Starred Chef to create an amazing private dining experience for members of the Nth Degree Club, by creating a Pop Up restaurant within the luxurious and stylish Pedini London Showrooms.
THE N TH DEGREE 25
To say that the team from luxury kitchen company Pedini London enjoy good food and wine is an understatement! Every opportunity to entertain is seized upon and those lucky enough to be on the receiving end of Pedini London’s hospitality are in for a treat! The
flagship
Battersea
showroom
was
redeveloped
by
successful
Berkshire
based kitchen designers, Lida Cucina. At 3,500 square feet it is the largest Pedini showroom in the world, and has recently been awarded the prestigious title of “Pedini European Showroom of the Year.” The stunning Pedini London showroom was launched on 5th July 2012 with a lavish red carpet affair attended by more than 360 invited guests, including leading house-builders, architects, interior designers and the media. Comments made by some of the guests were “surely one of the most amazing showrooms in London ………. quite spectacular!” and “the Maserati of showroom openings”.
To highlight Pedini’s Italian heritage, celebrity chef Aldo Zilli cooked throughout the evening using the state-of-the-art Sub Zero and Wolf appliances. He demonstrated mouthwatering
dishes
such
as
monkfish
with
Parma ham, fresh pasta with Italian sausage and tomato sauce, many of the audience were lucky enough to be offered tasters.
iceless champagne chiller with colour changing
LEDs,
and
Quatreau
Boiler
tap – that not only dispenses boiled, but also sparkling and chilled water. The bar is an oasis of tranquillity, with LED lighting gently washing the brickwork and backlit recycled glass. After a brief stop for a coffee, or something a little stronger the rest of the showroom awaits!
Special
“Pedini
Bellini,”
“Chilli
Zilli”
and
“Famous Domus Foamus” cocktails were created for the occasion to capture
Opening out into a veritable tardis it is only at this point that you can see the sheer scale of the showroom. Its eleven
the style and sophistication of the showroom. They were served from the bar during the evening by the resident mixologists, along with Pedini’s own
displays are in stark contrast to the remnants of the showroom’s previous existence as an Alfa Romeo showroom and garage, evidence of which can still
label Prosecco.
be seen in a number of places.
Anyone lucky enough to visit the showroom enters through unassuming glass doors into a long passageway, with exposed brickwork, oversized
Such is the Italian culture of hospitality and food within Pedini London; in fact one of the Designers, Shane Stewart,
canvasses,
and
a
bank
of
flat
screen
TVs
displaying images of Pedini’s ranges. To be met half way down by the well stocked contemporary Eko bar, with its ubercool
is totally passionate about food, and entered
the
TV
Cookery
programme
Master Chef, just missing out on the televised part of the competition – Master Chef’s loss is Pedini London’s
gain
-
He
has
become
the
official
in
-
house chef rustling up culinary delights for staff and clients alike. The showroom has been so well received that
many
TV
and
Marketing
companies,
are looking to use the working kitchens as aspirational sets for their productions and negotiations are currently underway to
film
a
Celebrity
Chef
demonstrating
recipes for the launch of a major new brand to the UK. Pedini
is
regarded
as
one
of
the
finest
Italian kitchen brands; the company was
formed
over
fifty
years
ago,
and
has
26 THE N TH DEGREE
from the outset been creating cutting edge kitchens which have been installed across the world. Pedini’s unique designs can be combined to create tailored solutions that offer the ultimate in modern kitchen luxury, functionality and epitomise uncompromising style. As well fabulous kitchens and its fast growing reputation as a culinary hotspot, the combination of Pedini London and near neighbour, well known Domus
Tiles,
makes
a
trip
to
Battersea
essential for anyone planning to develop or renovate a property.
76 Queenstown Road, London SW8 7RY 0207 720 8311 info@pedinilondon.co.uk Showroom open Monday to Friday 9.0 - 5.30, and Saturday 10.00 - 4.30 www.pedinilondon.co.uk
THE N TH DEGREE 27
28 THE N TH DEGREE good hands and has developed it in a subtle but forceful way to put it right at the top of the most recognised global luxury brands.
What Rolls Royce captures is elegance, class and quality. All manufacturers strive for this, but few achieve it. Certain things, such as pedigree and image cannot be bought – at any price. They just evolve over time. BMW has shown that the Rolls Royce marque is in
Spirits
High THE N TH DEGREE 29
The Ghost will be the ‘drivers’ car in the Rolls Royce range
BMW has demonstrated with its ownership of Mini, that it recognises the importance of heritage. The Mini could have been produced at any one of their numerous global plants, but they chose to establish a new production line in England (along with separate engine and component plants). The same ethos has been applied to Rolls Royce and a brand new state-of-the-art production facility has been established for some years now on the famous Goodwood Estate. So how do you set about building a ‘baby’ Rolls Royce? An entry model if you will. Well the truth is, you don’t. Rolls Royce, under the patronage of BMW has risen phoenix-like from the depths of the 1970s and 1980s to producing what
can
only
be
described
as
the
finest
luxury
cars
in
the
world.
The
Phantom
redefined
the
market and showed the automotive world how it should be done and the new Ghost has continued in the same vein. So with this in mind, you may call the new Ghost many things, but it is most certainly not a ‘lesser’ model. Yes, it is true the Ghost shares its chassis (albeit heavily revised) with a BMW 7 Series and there is some switch gear from the BMW parts bin, but you are still getting a hand built, luxury motor car, constructed to the most demanding standards in the automotive industry.
The
price
reflects
this,
starting
at
around £200,000. The Ghost will be the ‘drivers’ car in the Rolls Royce range. True, the Phantom is an exceptionally nice car to drive; but it tends to be owned mostly by the kind of customer who has a permanent driver on hand. The Ghost is very much for the ‘owner / driver’. Using some of the 7 Series components to construct a driver’s car is no bad place to start however and this continues into the engine with a
30 THE N TH DEGREE
modified
version
of
the
BMW
6
litre
twin-turbo
V12,
now
displacing
6.6
litres.
Rolls
Royce,
for
many years, would never discuss anything so vulgar as brake horsepower, preferring to say ‘adequate’ when asked and displaying a ‘Power Reserve’ in the cabin. The tradition continues, although if you are curious, the engine
produces
in
excess
of
560bhp,
which
most people would describe as more than ‘adequate’. Press the satin chrome starter and the engine spins into life almost silently, idling without discernible vibration. In most circumstances you will barely hear the engine and that is the way it should be in a Rolls Royce. Half throttle gives a fast takeoff and you can feel that the Ghost wants to squat under power and pitch under braking, but it is very well controlled. On the road, the Ghost is a striking car with highly individual styling; it has the evasive ‘presence’ that so many car manufacturers strive for. The air suspension provides a soft but stable ride and is rarely troubled. Rolls Royce has saved the best experience for the interior though. They call the switches and instruments “the jewellery” and on the new Ghost they are exquisite. Textures of chromium, piano black, aluminium, crystal and faux Bakelite rotary switches are a sensory delight. The cabin is better than the larger Phantom’s because of this attention to detail. There is a symmetry and simple elegance that pervades the whole cabin; from the gorgeously thin steering wheel, with the cruise control buttons elegantly incorporated within the rim, to the understated clock. So have BMW succeeded with the new Ghost? In
my
opinion,
it
is
an
unqualified
‘yes’.
It
is
a
superb luxury car as well as being a lot of fun to drive. That is quite a trick to pull off.
THE N TH DEGREE 31
Dyslexia Action is a national charity that takes action to change the
lives
of
people
with
dyslexia
and
literacy
difficulties. Dyslexia is a hidden disability that affects approximately 1 in 10 people to
varying
degrees.
It
predominantly
affects reading, writing and spelling, however
it
is
much
more
than
just
a
difficulty
with
reading
and
it
can
affect
an
individual
in
many
other
ways,
such
as
organisation,
memory
and
mathematics.
The social impact of dyslexia can be extensive.
If
you
cannot
learn
to
read,
you
cannot
read
to
learn
and
everything
we
do
at
school
and
throughout
life
requires
us
to
have
the
skills
to
be
able
to
access
written
information. Dyslexia
Action
exists
to
ensure
all
those affected by dyslexia and literacy difficulties
receives
the
help
and
support
that
they
need.
We
are
the
UK’s leading provider of services and support
for
people
with
dyslexia
and
literacy
difficulties,
specialising
in
assessments, teaching, training and consultancy.
With
your
help
we
can
continue
to
support
individuals
with
dyslexia
and
literacy
difficulties
through
projects
such
as
our
Learning
Fund
and
Dyslexia
Action
Online.
but
for
one
reason
or
another
are
not
in
a
financial
position
to
be
able
to
pay
for
the
support
that
they
or
their
child
needs.
The
Learning
Fund
is
solely
reliant
on
voluntary
funds.
The
demand
for
support
is
huge,
and
far
greater
than
the
funds
we
have
available.
Dyslexia
Action
Online
is
one
of
our
most
ambitious
projects
and
it
has
the
potential to completely change the way that
individuals
living
with
dyslexia
are
able
to
access
support
and
help.
We
know
that
face
to
face
tuition
really
works,
but
we
also
recognise
that
we
are only reaching a fraction of the people
that
need
our
support
due
to
barriers,
such
as
time,
cost
and
location.
Dyslexia
Action
online
will
consist of a one stop website where individuals
can
access
support
and
help
in
a
way
that
suits
them
and
their
needs
as
well
as
fitting
in
with
their lifestyle, so they can learn anytime and
anywhere.
We
need
the
support
of
generous
individuals
and
organisations
to
take
action
to
change
the
lives
of
individuals
with
dyslexia.
The
Dyslexia
Action
Learning
Fund
provides
subsidised
specialist
tuition
and
support
to
address
the
immediate
For
more
information
about
dyslexia
needs of many disadvantaged individuals
who
come
to
us
for
support,
Dyslexia Action on 01784 222334 or
32 THE N TH DEGREE
visit www.dyslexiaaction.org.uk or to get involved please contact fundraising@dyslexiaaction.org.uk
Nth Degree Summer Ball in aid of Dyslexia Action at Trunkwell House, Berkshire Friday
21st
June
2013
4
course
sit
down
meal
with
Live
Entertainment
and
includes
a
full
Fairground
in
the
Gardens.
Contact:
Jessica@thenthedegreeclub.com
Dyslexia Action Awards Dinner at the Savoy London Wednesday
27
November
2013 This
stunning
award
event
highlights
the work Dyslexia Action does throughout
the
year. Contact:
lmcnally@dyslexiaaction.org.uk
THE N TH DEGREE 33
There are not many men who can boast that Hugh Jackman was second pick after them but Dougray Scott can, and many more achievements beside. The Nth Degree caught up with the man himself to talk golf, travel and good causes – as well as a little bit about being one of the leading male actors around. Dougray Scott is aptly-named. A more Scottish man you couldn’t hope to meet. With a slight permanent scowl that gives way to a truly sunny smile, almost embodies the country from which he hails. Born in Glenrothes, Fife, in 1965, was born Stephen Scott, but the name had already been registered at Equity, so he took his French grandmother’s surname. Scottish actor, Dougray Scott, trained at the Welsh College of Music and Drama where he was named most promising drama student. He began his acting career working in regional theatre and making television appearances. His first
big
break
came
when
he
was
cast
as Major Rory Taylor in the popular UK series, “Soldier Soldier” in 1991. He
really
came
to
the
film
world’s
attention when he gained notoriety as corrupt cop, Terry Walsh, in the movie
Twin Town in 1997 and that role led to his being cast as Prince Henry, opposite Drew Barrymore, in Ever After: A Cinderella Story in 1998. Which was all just the beginning and he is certainly wearing better than most 47-year-olds, which is surprising given that he never seems to stop. He is regularly quoted as saying this is from a sense of fear, that there is nothing else out there for him, although having seen him on the fairways, we at the Nth Degree reckon there could definitely
be
a
career
as
a
professional
golfer for him if all else fails – given that he still has a six handicap even with all his other commitments, including being a
dad
to
twins
from
his
first
marriage
and husband to second wife, actress Claire Forlani. One
of
the
most
dominant
influences
in his life, and the one that led him to
dougray scott
34 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 35
acting the scott
that’s the best way his father thought to teach him the etiquette of golf and it’s something he’s well-known for being a big advocate of, getting juniors out on the course. But he’s not a big talker on the course and, it seems, he doesn’t overthink his acting opportunities either. “I do what I feel is right at the time. Opportunities come along and I take them or I don’t. I feel happy about what I’m doing, and I work instinctively.” Dougray remarks And when asked about being known as a method actor, he replies: “Method acting is a label I don’t really understand, because there’s a method to everybody’s acting. “In terms of jumping into a character’s skin, I try to immerse myself in the role as much as possible to bring me closer to them. All I do is what’s required to achieve what I want to achieve.”
acting, was his father, whom he sadly lost at the age of 29. The loss coming just on the cusp on manhood was undoubtedly
a
huge
influence
on
his
character, and perhaps lends to that sense of wondering when the rug is going to be pulled from underneath him. His father was a travelling salesman and through him he came to the idea of acting, almost before he knew what it was. “I would follow my father around, he’d get up in the morning and he had a ritual; he’d come down in his vest, he’d shave and wash – all the while singing – and then he’d slowly put his clothes on like he was putting on a uniform. He was creating a character.” Says Dougray And not only did his father give him acting, he also handed him his favourite release from it all too - golf. From
the
age
of
five
or
six,
young
Dougray was taken out on the golf course to play with adults, because
36 THE N TH DEGREE
And it’s not just that he wants to achieve greatness
in
films
either,
Scott
will
not
leave the world remembered only as a pampered movie star – from ensuring his presence at premieres that support charities that support issues raised by his movies, like A Thousand Kisses Deep, which had elements of violence against women where he supported Women’s Aid. And his regular charity golf day, the Leuka Mini Masters, is held every year in West London in aid of a Leukemia Charity and makes a direct difference to people’s lives. But it’s likely the thing Scott will want to be remembered for most is not roles in Mission Impossible II or A Week with Marilyn, but that he taught his son golf patiently, just like his dad did for him. Dougray is a honorary patron of the Nth Degree Club and attends as many events as
he
can
fit
into
his
tight
shchedule.
Who knows, maybe the next event you attend you might get the opportunity to speak to a true Hollywood actor....
THE N TH DEGREE 37
made in Britain Space, security, location, luxury features: in the prime or super-prime marketplace, this is what potential purchasers are looking for. While this sounds deceptively simple, it’s about degrees of excellence – and when it comes to country houses, demand for
“The demand for country property has begun to change as people’s aspirations and expectations have evolved,” says Graeme Simpson, chairman of Millgate, the award-winning Berkshire-based specialist
developer.
“We’re
finding
that
buyers have become more exposed to the
the most exceptional properties is high.
very
high
level
of
design,
specification
and facilities on offer at the top end of
The prime country house market across the UK, more in the South East – is on the rise, while the super-prime country market, featuring properties priced £5m and above, is growing apace. The problem is that there are not enough truly excellent properties around.
38 THE N TH DEGREE
the London market. By comparison, there are far fewer properties in the country market that match up to this. “Of course, you can buy an old country pile and then refurbish it to suit your needs,” he continues. “But even if you
find
a
suitable
property
to
work
with,
it will more often than not require a total rebuild to achieve your ideal accommodation, and wrangling over planning permission and listed building consent can take years in itself.” Which is where Millgate comes in. Offering a high level of service for people that expect only the best, Millgate’s stunning country houses combine traditional aesthetics with state-of-theart facilities, offering the ultimate 21st century home in idyllic surroundings. Highview Manor, just outside Oxford in the highly sought-after hamlet of Boars
Hill, is one such property. With an asking
Specialising in grand country homes set in spectacular locations, which combine breathtaking luxury with easy access to London, Millgate’s
portfolio
of
very
exclusive
properties
provide
the
finest
property for the most discerning purchaser.
setting, with commanding views over
“What really impressed me about
price of £6 million, its accommodation the verdant pasture of Oxford’s historic and attention to detail is characteristic Old Golf Course and towards the Downs of
the
brand.
Featuring
five
bedroom
in the south.
Penbury Grove was the quality of the landscape,” he explains. “Laid out in the early 1900s, it had matured
suites, four reception rooms and a spectacular kitchen/dining/family room, Highview
Manor
also
benefits
from
a
four-car garage, detached staff or guest accommodation and its own tennis court and summer house. What sets this
Each site is individually selected, in some of the South East’s most sought-after locations. Penbury Grove, for example, near Penn in Buckinghamshire, will offer a secluded, 25-acre estate in the heart of the Chilterns Area of Outstanding
into a wonderful parkland setting, despite becoming totally overgrown in recent years. “We looked at the possibility of restoring the original mansion, but came to the conclusion that the quality of the house
house apart, however, is its extraordinary indoor leisure complex, with heated swimming pool, fully equipped cardio gym, sauna, cinema and wine cellar – not forgetting its incredible 4.5 acre
Natural Beauty. To Mr Simpson, it was irrelevant that rival developers had failed before, since Millgate have a unique talent to see a piece of land and instantly know how best to build on it.
was simply not good enough to warrant the expense. Instead, we commissioned the architect Robert Adam to draw up plans for a new, 25,000 sq ft Georgianstyle country house.”
THE N TH DEGREE 39
These new plans include a grand reception hall, four reception rooms, eight bedroom suites and a snooker room, with the large kitchen/dining/ family room at its heart. The west wing features garaging for 12 cars, and house
owner. Following a major programme of tree work and restoration of the gardens and grounds, we are offering the entire site, construction ready, for sale at a guide price of £12.5 million. It will probably cost a further £10-12.5
the skirtings and architraves, while walls are curved or angled around ensuites or wardrobes so as not to interrupt the visual
flow.
Each
has
a
spacious
master
suite, where the homeowner can escape after
a
hard
day;
boasting
a
fully-fitted
Mr Simpson. “From our signature double-struck mortar jointed brickwork, which highlights each and every individual brick, to the traditional craftsmanship throughout – and even out into the gardens, where we plant
not as show homes, but as places people will want to call home, their intelligent layouts and deft detailing demonstrate a true appreciation for modern living, while their ample space, security, location and luxury features meet the needs of their
the service accommodation, while the east wing houses a leisure suite and swimming pool.
million to build the new property, which will create one of the most unique and impressive in the Home Counties.”
dressing room and opulent bathroom or
two,
the
bed
is
specifically
orientated
towards the sunrise, offering the perfect
thousands of bulbs within the landscaping – it’s obvious that we really take pride in the job.”
particular marketplace. The company currently has a range of exclusive country homes available in Oxfordshire,
Mr Simpson continues, “Our plans have been approved, although the internal layout could be altered to suit a new
Throughout a typical Millgate home, every detail whispers quality, from the high ceilings and tall internal doors to
waking experience. “Millgate’s reputation is built on our painstaking attention to detail,” admits
Millgate’s success is in consistently creating homes that look as though they’ve always been there. Envisioned
Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Surrey.
40 THE N TH DEGREE
For further information, visit millgatehomes.co.uk
THE N TH DEGREE 41
Old Head Golf Links is a remarkably dramatic piece of Ireland, protruding over two miles into the Atlantic Ocean. The sandstone rock of the Old Head was formed about 350 million years ago and people
first
settled
here
in
Ireland
over
6,000
years
ago.
The
Eirinn
Clan
moved
from
Western
Europe
about
900
B.C.
and
settled
on
the
headland.
The
island
of
Ireland
took
its
name
from
this
clan.
42 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 43
This historic and spectacular 220 acres of land was acquired by Kerry-born brothers,
John
and
Patrick
O’Connor,
in 1989 and the Links opened for play in 1997. Old Head Golf Links was designed and constructed by a unique team led by Ron Kirby, a former designer at Jack Nicklaus’ Golf Design Services. He was joined by Paddy Merrigan - Australian course architect and agronomist, Liam Higgins - one of Ireland’s best known golf professionals currently on the Seniors
Tour,
the
late
Eddie
Hackett
-
play the course. Dozens of shipwrecks occurred off the Old Head coast as well. In 1915, it was here that the Lusitania was felled by a German U-Boat. Nearly 2,000 people were killed in the disaster, which ultimately sparked America’s intervention
into
WWI. Since that far-off day in 1999, the O’Connor’s
have
continued
to
pour
energy and resources into the venture. The stunning and unobtrusive clubhouse has a bar area for informal meals and a 5 star restaurant for more formal dining. In 2008, 15 luxury suites and a
former Irish golf professional and golf course
designer,
the
late
Dr.
Joe
Carr
-
Ireland’s most successful international amateur
golfer
and
finally,
Haulie
O’Shea – building contractor.
spa were built into the rock under the clubhouse, with panoramic views of the course and the Atlantic Ocean. These
The
par
72
course
comprises
of
five
Par
5s,
five
Par
3s
and
eight
Par
4s-
stretching to over 7,200 yards from the
The Old Head logo is the Stone of Accord.
In
pre-Christian
times
and
up
to the 17th century, the Stone of Accord was commonly used to seal important deals and to make up after disagreements.
tips, with a minimum of six tees per hole. Nine holes play along the cliff tops and all eighteen holes provide stunning ocean
views.
With
the
ever-changing
sea
breezes, the course provides a stern test to the touring pro and high handicapper alike. The Links boasts one of the most extensive and professional caddie programmes word-wide. The quality of the facilities and service has helped Old Head to become one of the most talked about golf experiences in the world. Today, the most visible symbol of Old Head is its “modern” lighthouse, completed in 1853, which is accessible from several different tee boxes as you
44 THE N TH DEGREE
are available for Members and guests to reside in during the season.
up of multiple Major winners – the late
Payne
Stewart,
Tiger
Woods,
Mark
O’Meara, Lee Jansen, Stewart Appleby and David Duval. The group was followed by a small gallery of excited members
and,
after
a
fun-filled
round,
the players retired to the clubhouse terrace to enjoy a few pints of “the black stuff”. They enthused about the whole experience – the antiquity of the site,
the
stunning
360º
vista
of
cliffs
and
ocean,
the
abundance
of
flora
and
fauna - and they predicted that one day the
Old
Head
would
become
a
golfing
Mecca and a “must play” destination for all discerning golfers from around the world. Old Head has received many accolades since it opened, including “The Most Spectacular
Golf
Course
on
Earth”
from
Links Magazine.
It was also used as a wedding stone and in early centuries couples exchanged marriage vows for one year only, from May to May. The wedding contract was renewed by joining hands through the hole in the stone. In July 1999, a very famous “six-ball” turned up to play on the new course that had all of the golf world talking. In those days, many of the leading PGA pros used the week before the British Open to practice on the Irish Links courses as
a
warm-up
to
the
Championship.
The “six-ball” in question was made
THE N TH DEGREE 45
welcome to the O2
VIPclub
Membership to the The O2 VIP Club gives you guaranteed access to world class events at the The World’s most Popular Entertainment Venue. Whether it’s that ‘must see’ concert, sporting event, legendary comedian or family show, as a VIP Club Member, you will always be able to say “I was there” Each VIP membership guarantees you access to one VIP Ticket for every event that goes on public sale the O2
picture courtesy of Colin Philip
Arena. A VIP Club Membership also gives you inclusive tickets to events of your choice. The O2 VIP Club offers the perfect opportunity to entertain clients, motivate colleagues or share memorable experiences with family and friends. VIP Club Members have early access and dedicated Fast Track entry lanes to the O2 arena, bypassing the crowds and ensuring you don’t miss a second of the show. Members also get access to a dedicated team of Account Managers to take care of your every need. Members also have access to the exclusive VIP Club
A suite at the world famous The O2, gives a whole new meaning to corporate entertainment. Situated around the stunning arena bowl, each of our 96 custom suites enjoys unrestricted views of the most famous names in music and sport. You will be able to give your clients, friends and family a truly unforgettable experience. Purchase of a suite guarantees: •
15-18
tickets
to
every
public
event
in
the O2 arena in your own private suite •
Two
inclusive
car
parking
passes
for every event •
Access
to
VIP
Drop
off
and
VIP walkway
lounge with its spacious modern bar and lounge, members can relax before,
•
Dedicated
fast
track
entry
to
the arena
during or after each event.
•
Fast,
simple
and
online
ticketing
If you want to take your VIP Club
•
Invitations
to
exclusive
suite
holder events
experience to the next level, upgrade and relax with your guests in the privacy of one of our exclusive suites. Available only to our VIP Club members, our suite brokerage service gives you the opportunity to entertain up to 24 guests in style. Membership starts from £3995+VAT per year.
46 THE N TH DEGREE
Suites at the O2
•
On
average,
175
events+
per
year Prices
start
from
£175k+VAT
per
year
based
on
a
3,5
or
10
year
agreement Further details on both the Suites and VIP Club membership: Andy
Lavin
0208
463
2534
andy.lavin@theo2.co.uk
THE N TH DEGREE 47
dip your toe in
luxury The multi-award winning Spa is one of only three spas in the UK with its own underground aquifer feeding 15 individual water facilities. Enjoy the Spa Pool, Relaxation Pool, Fitness Pool, Jacuzzis and four outdoor mini spas. Experience the mineral-enriched water of the Dead Sea Floatation Pool, to melt away tension and help still a busy mind. Step into the new Thermal Experience Suite with its sauna, salt inhalation steam room, ice rub station and monsoon showers to refresh and revitalise the body. Reawaken your natural glow with exclusive, innovative treatments from Germaine de Capuccini, such as the anti-ageing Japanese Kobido facial, once reserved for royalty. Nourish your skin with the 100% pure essential oils distilled from plants which form the heart of the Decléor range.
Time spent at Nirvana Spa is all about you taking a journey that will unwind
to-back with the Salt Inhalation Steam Room is a Sauna with its dry, hot air kept
The Thermal Experience Suite also includes an Ice Rub station where you
tired muscles and ease away stresses to leave you relaxed and refreshed. The new Thermal Experience Suite
at 95OC
and
humidity
of
five
per
cent. The warm, quiet environments of both the Salt Inhalation Steam Room and the Sauna allow your mind and body to close the door on the rest of the world to let your thoughts drift away and your body
can rub crushed ice all over your body or use
it
on
specific
areas
of
tenderness
or
gives a greater extreme of hot and cold temperatures than those found anywhere else within the Spa. Central to the Suite is the Salt Inhalation Steam Room and the Sauna. The Salt Inhalation Steam Room is
48 THE N TH DEGREE
relax, and in doing so, relieve stress.
humidity at 100%. Unlike other steam rooms, pure ionised salt is added to
In stark contrast to the heat of the Salt Inhalation Steam Room and the Sauna there has to be cold to understand the thermal experience. The icy cold water of the plunge pool, with an ice cascade is cooled to a
the water which, when it vaporises, produces steam infused with salt in very low concentrations. Salt has long been used in medicine in very low concentrations to alleviate
chilly sub 15OC, will soon reduce your core temperature. Top athletes use cold plunge pools, or ice baths, to reduce tissue breakdown and swelling after rigorous training or competition
dryness of upper airways. Sitting back-
benefitting
areas
of
injury
or
pain.
a hot, humid environment, with the temperature kept at a constant 46OC and
soreness. Monsoon Showers will drench your body with pure warm spring water to wash away impurities.
Nirvana Spa Mole Road, Wokingham, Berkshire RG41 5DJ 0118 989 7575 info@nirvanaspa.co.uk www.nirvanaspa.co.uk
THE N TH DEGREE 49
50 THE N TH DEGREE
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the Monaco Grand Prix has evoked excitement and passion even for those with little interest in motorsport. For the enthusiast, it represents the pinnacle of motorsport. For everyone, just to be there to savour the atmosphere and see the spectacle is a “must do� on the social calendar.
52 THE N TH DEGREE
The Nth Degree Club will be there again in 2013, providing unrivalled hospitality and watching the race from the deck of their 46 metre super yacht, moored trackside only feet from the
That man is Will Stevens. Will is racing in the category that is now widely recognised as the main feeder series to F1, World Series by Renault. To even the most informed of spectators, the
action. To add to the excitement, the Nth Degree Club is proudly endorsing a car and driver in the main support race on the day of the F1 Grand Prix for a second year running.
car Will drives looks like, sounds like and is virtually as fast as an F1 car, sharing a lot of the technology. Just a few seconds a lap off the time of an F1 car, the racing provides an experience
THE N TH DEGREE 53
In addition to Monaco, World Series visits other historic circuits such as Spa and Monza, goes to a number of F1 circuits, such as Barcelona and Hungaroring
very special for all our guests. We all really developed a special relationship with him over the weekend and that added massively to the excitement of
and travels to other countries such as Russia during the nine round, seventeen race championship. With an average attendance of 70,000 spectators per
the event. I’m delighted to be associated with him again for the whole of the 2013 World Series season and especially to be able to cheer him on in Monaco”.
race weekend and global TV coverage, the
Series
has
an
incredible
profile
providing both drivers and sponsors with a platform second to none outside of F1.
To join us in Monaco or any of the other races this year as a guest please contact the Club. For sponsorship opportunities with Will for the Monaco weekend or across the whole season
Will explained, “Pulling together the please contact Will’s management team budget for a season of World Series again via the Club. is
difficult
but
the
profile
of
the
World Series by Renault dates Championship is such that it provides and locations. potential sponsors with a fantastic 27th-28th April: Motorland Aragon (Spain) opportunity to be intimately involved 25th-26th May: Monaco in motorsport at the highest level at a fraction of the cost of F1. I’m very happy 1st-2nd June: Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium) to be working with The Nth Degree Club as part of our campaign again this year”. Looking back at last year’s visit to Monaco, the Chairman of The Nth Degree Club, Bob Walton MBE said, “Last
year
was
the
first
time
we
endorsed
Will and it made the whole weekend for both driver and spectator as close to the Grand Prix action itself as it gets. We caught up with Will as his pre-season testing started to see how his plans for 2013 were shaping up.
cars in Formula Renault, a junior single seater category, and spent three years in that before making the big step up to World Series in 2012. Having had 10 race results
in
the
top
10
finishers
last
year
weighing just 615kg. For the uninitiated, that’s as much power as a Ferrari road car with less than half the weight. With the aerodynamics on the World Series car producing as much down force as an
“It’s my second year in World Series so I’m looking for race wins in 2013
including a podium in Hungary, he feels ready to mount a serious Championship
F1, a top speed of 200mph is achieved at tracks like Spa with braking distances
and being in contention for the overall title. Five of the top eleven drivers from 2012 ended up with F1 contracts and I’m hoping to add my name to that list with a strong result this year having finished
12th
in
the
Championship
last
challenge this year. He commented, “I’ve joined P1 Motorsport this year. They won the Championship in 2008 with a driver who is now in F1 so they have the pedigree to help me to the do the same. Added to
and cornering speeds similar to those of Grand Prix machinery. Speaking about the car’s performance, Will added, “These cars are incredible to drive and prepare the driver perfectly for F1. That’s why many of the F1 Teams
year. Winning in Monaco would be very special indeed. So few drivers have stood on that top step of the podium
that I’ve now got the experience in this category and have raced on the majority of tracks we’re visiting this year so I’m
now look to the category to choose their future drivers. Monaco is very special as we share the weekend with F1 so all the
there on the Grand Prix weekend and it is one of my key objectives for the season to do that”. Will began his career in karts aged 11 and was widely recognised as a one of the top karters in the World by 2008. The following year he transitioned to
confident
I
can
push
for
the
title.
I
learnt
a lot last year having made the step up and that should serve me well, especially in Monaco”. For the petrol heads, the car has a V8 engine producing some 530 horse power, revving to 9,500rpm with the car
drivers look to impress there. The nature of the circuit in Monaco is unrivalled as a driver challenge; the streets with the buildings so close and the proximity of the crash barriers makes it feel so narrow. It makes the hair on the back of your neck stand up every lap”.
54 THE N TH DEGREE
22nd-23rd June: Moscow Raceway (Russia) 26th-27th July: Red Bull Ring (Austria)
14th-15th September: Hungaroring (Hungary) 29th-30th September: Circuit Paul Ricard (South of France) 19th-20th October: Circuit de Catalunya (Spain)
THE N TH DEGREE 55
Un COS ited Ar ab E RICA TA mir ate N RUSS COLÓ A sd N l I w g A e on rian d irham Indian N RUB LE NEW ISRAELI ina Alban r ian le upee SHEKE k L h kron
BRAZ ILIAN REAL e
and there were so-called safe havens that investors clung to like rocks in a storm. One of the so-called safe haven currencies was the Japanese yen which was a little strange given that it is Japan that has the biggest sovereign debt burden in the world with their debt level running at more than twice their GDP.
The other safe haven was the Swiss franc as investors wanted to exit the Euro fearing the consequences of a sovereign default, but wanted to have a link to Germany. Switzerland proved to be the answer due to its proximity both in trading and in geography to Germany.
by buying tens of billions of US dollars for yen and as the yen failed to budge decided to initiate an aggressive policy
of
doubling
Japan’s
inflation
target.
This
soon had the desired effect. This has created contagion. In the 4 trillion dollar daily turnover of the FX markets, when one currency weakens, another needs to strengthen. So as
Currency Wars is a new phrase, but an old phenomenon. In the early 90’s currency wars were fought in the high tech trading rooms of leading investors. For example Joe Lewis and George Soros took on the Bank of
However we have seen these two safe haven countries reignite the currency
England in September 1992 and won as Sterling crashed out of the Exchange Rate Mechanism.
In January 2013 the President of the Bundesbank was quoted as saying Euro
by
creating
a
floor,
supported
by
that ‘the erosion of central bank almost limitless rhetoric and monetary independence is unveiling a round of intervention. Japan started intervening competitive exchange rate devaluations.’
2010 was the year when the sovereign debt crisis in Europe was intensifying
56 THE N TH DEGREE
war as their economies began to suffer the consequences of a strong currency. Switzerland acted boldly by depreciating the Swiss Franc by nearly 20% in one day and then preventing it from strengthening back through the level of 1.20 to the
exports for both countries, but it has left the Germans scratching their heads. And this is what has led to contagion and further
allegations
of
“currency
wars”.
West Af
rican
CFA f
ranc
UNITE D STA TES D OLLAR Written by Christopher Towner (Managing Director of HiFM) and Tim Kirkham (Director of HiFM)
The G7 and G20 meetings in February only to withdraw this claim at the very 2013,
held
amidst
significant
currency
last minute. But if the Chinese stopped volatility, tried to steer a politically tightly managing their exchange rate inspired path that allowed the Japanese then this would release a lot of pressure to
benefit
from
a
“small”
devaluation
in the global foreign exchange markets as but capped that devaluation to between speculators would buy into the renmimbi 25 and 30%. With global interest rates at almost zero, the ability of individual or
collective
governments
to
influence
currency by changing interest rates has almost
disappeared.
This
has
intensified
the impact that currencies can have on economic policy as the tool of using
as this currency remains undervalued. If the currency wars intensify over time, the pressure will increase for the Chinese to have
a
more
flexible
approach
to
their
currency. But it is hard to persuade a growing superpower to halt their ways. Instead the US are looking at other ways
interest rates to steer an economy becomes redundant.
to reduce their reliance on the foreign exchange markets by managing their
China is one the newest members of the currency war clan and has been
trade balance with companies re-shoring and the US becoming less dependent on energy imports.
steadily intervening to support its own currency targets for the last 10 years. Despite warnings from the G3 and the G7 China has managed the appreciation of the Renminbi effectively, thwarting speculation by aggressive monetary policy control. Indeed the US has on quite a few occasions got very close to naming China a ‘currency manipulator’
Currency Wars make great news headlines, and despite the carefully scripted rhetoric of the central bankers, currency volatility looks set to stay. Perhaps
we
are
not
in
such
a
“free
Overview of HiFM HiFM
focuses
on
financial
risk
and
the steps that businesses should be taking to identify, quantify and manage this risk. The purity of our approach is in our independence. We have been advising clients on over £200bn of risk for over a decade and pride ourselves on synchronising our multidecade investment banking experience with our knowledge on how best to understand and represent the requirements of our clients. www.hifm.co.uk Tim Kirkham
Japan and Switzerland have politically and economically driven their currencies lower, the main benefactor has been the Euro. In the summer of 2012 you could only buy 95 Japanese yen for one Euro. Within 6 months you could buy as many as 127. A 30% depreciation in a currency is a great catalyst to boost
l ria
It was back in September 2010 that the Brazilian Finance Minister Guido Mantega coined
the
phrase
“Currency
Wars”.
Back
then
it
wasn’t
so obvious that there was a currency war going on, but since then the evidence has been building, despite the regular denials by Central bankers that this is in any way their intention.
CHINESE YUAN
ni me Ye
WARS
H EC Z C
NA U R KO
DINAR
C U R R E N C Y
E U L R O A E Z S C T U E B r U i t i sh poDO AFGHA Q NI und r
Christopher Towner
Danis
market
economy”
as
we
thought.
Nobody
will admit to it and therefore for now it remains the unspoken truth.
THE N TH DEGREE 57
JEAN QUEEN DONNA IDA THORNTON Donna Ida Thornton is the owner of the eponymous designer denim independent Donna Ida which has
four
boutiques
in
London
and
an online store.
58 THE N TH DEGREE
Born and raised in Sydney, Australia, Donna Ida Thornton moved to the UK in 1999 for a career in marketing when she spotted a gap in the market. While out shopping one day Donna realised
boutique
that
just
sold
jeans,
she
did
exactly that. Donna recognised the potential for designer
denim
and
in
October
2006,
opened
the
doors
to
the
first
Donna
she
couldn’t
find
anywhere
to
buy
jeans
that
she
felt
truly
comfortable
in. Department stores had a great
Ida
boutique
on
Draycott
Avenue
in
the
fashionable
Chelsea
area.
Three
more
boutiques
quickly
followed,
Westfield
selection
but
she
couldn’t
get
the
service she needed. So when a friend suggested that she should open a
London
in
The
Village
in
2008,
Elizabeth
Street
in
Belgravia
in
2010
and
Swan
Lane
in
Guildford
in
2011.
THE N TH DEGREE 59
The
boutiques
stock
a
roll
call
of
the
aesthetic and attitude to denim. IDA is a latest and most sought after denim label
with
an
achingly
cool
take
on
the
brands
in
sizes
23-34
including
J
Brand,
way a modern woman dresses; a little IDA,
Goldsign,
James
Jeans,
MiH
Jeans,
bit
lady,
a
little
bit
rock
‘n’
roll
and
a
Mother
and
Current/Elliott.
Donna
lot of chic. Ida also stocks tops and accessories Donna Ida Thornton explains; ‘I’m to complement the denim including inspired
by
women
past
and
present
Roseanna,
Tucker,
By
Malene
Birger,
who all know what a waist is. I look to the Simeon
Farrar,
Sophie
Hulme
and
likes
of
Marilyn
Monroe,
Bridget
Bardot,
Hanky
Panky. Katherine
Hepburn,
Marianne
Faithful,
Donna
Ida
boutiques
are
designed
with
Anita
Pallenberg
and
Kate
Moss.
I
found
the customer in mind and all feature that more and more of my customers the
famous
‘Denim
Clinic’.
At
the
Denim
were
looking
for
a
high-waisted
jean
that
Clinic,
customers
can
book
a
one-to-one
gives shape and holds you in. One person appointment with a style advisor so they in
particular
Jeanie
would
always
ask
can
find
the
perfect
jeans.
The
directional
me
for
high-waist
jeans
and
I
felt
I
was
concept
boutique
has
a
bespoke
interior
letting
her
down.
It
soon
became
clear
that there was a gap in the market for a as
a
full-length,
three-way
mirrors
and
denim
brand
dedicated
to
true-waisted
podiums for the customer to admire jeans,
and
IDA
was
born.’ their jeans from every angle. IDA
SS13
is
available
in
Donna
Ida
boutiques
In
2008,
Donna
decided
she
needed
and from www.donnaida.com now. to spread the word even further, and Prices
for
jeans
range
from
that includes distinctive features such
so
www.donnaida.com
was
born.
The
website
mirrors
the
in-store
experience
with
a
Denim
Clinic
page
where
shoppers
are
invited
to
‘find
your
perfect
jeans’
and videos demonstrating how to shop
£150-
£200
and
for
tops
from
£75-£195.
To
book
a
Denim
Clinic
please
stylist@donnaida.com Follow Donna Ida Thornton on Twitter @donnaida
for
different
body
shapes
including
Pear,
Apple,
Boyish,
Petite,
Curvy
and
Long
Legs.
Donna
has
over
7,000
followers
on
Twitter @donnaida which she entertains with her daily news and insights into her working life. In
2012
Donna
introduced
IDA,
an
entirely new concept in denim which is
dedicated
to
celebrating
the
‘iconic
woman’ silhouette with a collection of true-waisted
and
tailored
jeans
with
classic
co-ordinates
to
complement
them. Drawing
inspiration
from
quintessential
British elegance and sophistication, Donna Ida Thornton has introduced a collection of styles with a contemporary
60 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 61
King’s Fine Food
Often leading chefs, private customers and journalists will approach Laura for her expert opinion with caviarrelated questions.
sourcing
the
world’s
finest
foods
and
Cranberry dressing. An added bonus is providing the best service is the secret that the rapeseed and fruits for the vinegar of her success. In autumn 2012, King’s are all grown locally and the dressings Fine Food was honoured with the Best bottled in Ely, Cambridgeshire.
Ever eager to impart her specialist knowledge to others, Laura has ensured that her staff have an expert knowledge
Own Bought Vendor Award at the 2012 Harrods’ Food Halls and Restaurants Supplier Conference.
King’s have received some amazing BA passenger feedback regarding their tiny
of caviar. So Laura, or any member of the King’s team, is always more than happy to answer your questions or queries on caviar.
King’s salad oils have also taken British Airways Club World by storm. Laura developed these salad oils and organized
Two BA passengers from the Thames Valley area visited King’s website, www.kingsfinefood.co.uk,
and
recently
King’s is more than just a caviar
the tooling from scratch to manufacture of a new 12ml PET (Polyethylene terephthalate) recycled bottle.
company. It also supplies Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and London’s premier Selecting the right bottle design and restaurants and hotels with the world’s getting the product just right were finest
chocolate,
foie
gras,
Scottish
wild
no mean feats either, especially smoked salmon. King’s is the UK’s sole since King’s had never manufactured distributor of Out of Africa nuts from the anything before. The end product was a Kenya Nut Company, an ethical company beautiful square-design bottle, made by that closely monitors every stage of the M & H Plastics of Suffolk, containing a nut production process.
Throughout history, caviar has been known as the “Food of Kings”. King’s Fine Food (King’s) was founded on caviar in 2003 by
Laura
King
and
today
sells
the
finest
quality
farmed
caviar
from around the world.
Perhaps, in light of the current global food adulteration scares, it’s reassuring to know that King’s adheres to all labelling and traceability requirements of CITES (the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild
greater, expert, knowledge of caviar.
Fauna and Flora). Furthermore, King’s works closely with Trading Standards
2003 and she decided to go it alone by setting up her own business. King’s is
and Animal Health and educates customers about what to look for when buying caviar. Having specialised in caviar for the past 22 years, Laura King is now one of the UK’s leading authorities on caviar. She first
discovered
her
love
for
fine
food
in
the 1980s when, as Philippine Airlines’ Director of European Purchasing, she would oversee the ordering of caviar. During her next position, as Sales Director for W.G.White Ltd, Laura gained an even
In under ten years, Laura’s drive and dedication have helped grow the annual turnover of King’s to £3.3 million. Perhaps Laura’s passion for
stunning British Rapeseed Oil with Apple Balsamic vinegar. The range has since increased to a Honey Mustard dressing, a Classic dressing and Laura is currently working on a
bottles of English salad oils.
turned up at the premises to purchase some salad oils, the likes of which they’d never tasted before. Another BA passenger
flying
from
Hong
Kong
to
London said that she immediately fell in love with the King’s Honey mustard dressing. ‘I’ve been so fortunate to have my own business and it’s been an amazing learning curve. Every day is different and a journey in itself. I represent some amazing companies and sell to some of
the
finest
hotels,
restaurants
and
airlines in the world. I just love what I do,’ Laura says, smiling.
This amazing experience, during which she travelled regularly to Astrakhan and Iran and raised her employer’s public profile
considerably,
stood
Laura
in
good
stead when W.G.White Ltd was sold in
now the UK’s largest importer of caviar into the UK and a global vendor of Beluga, Oscietra, and Sevruga caviar. Laura regularly holds caviar tastings and dinners for private or corporate gatherings in Britain’s top hotels. These relaxed, informative evenings can take
Direct Line: 020 8894 1111
any format. But usually Laura gives an introduction on caviar, explains the different
taste
profiles
of
each
type
of
www.kingsfinefood.co.uk
caviar and then outlines the history of caviar before hosting a tasting.
Laura King Mobile: 07802 484842 Fax: 0208894 3338 Follow us on Twitter www.twitter.com/kingsfinefood Follow us on facebook www.facebook.com/kingsfinefood 6
Mill
Farm
Business
Park,
Millfield
Road,
Hanworth, Middlesex, TW4 5PY
62 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 63
Rebecca Jackson - racing driver, motoring journalist, presenter and businesswoman, now in addition, Motoring and Motorsport Editor for The Nth Degree book. From her wealth of experience with all things automotive you can look forward to articles about prestige marque factory tours, car reviews and exciting tales from the world of motorsport. The foundation that supports the journalism has to be the used car sales business that she single handedly set up in 2007. The business grew from
guest
entrant
where
she
finished
4th
in
her debut outing in the car.
£500 ‘bangers’ now dealing in more
events such as Goodwood Revival as Rolls Royce’ VIP guest and Barcelona
premium marques with current stock ranging from a beautiful 1964 Rolls Royce Silver Cloud, photographed against the outstanding backdrop of Berkshire’s Trunkwell Mansion – not surprisingly
many
people’s
first
choice
for their wedding or party venue! The impressive stock list continues with an eye catching 2008 Bentley Continental GT Speed to two year old BMW’s, Jaguars and Audis. This passion for cars and starting from a ‘nitty-gritty’ level has been noticed by some of the biggest names in the industry. Rebecca presents and reviews vehicles for Carbuyer, owned by Dennis Publishing with total YouTube uploaded hits of 37 million, as well as car shopping guides for Autotrader, winter tyre safety videos and Motorsport presenting. She writes content for Autoexpress and Michelin Tyres of whom she was an Inspirational Woman 2012. Toyota gave her their new sports coupe, the GT86, to race up the hill at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2012 and show the car off to visitors of the show. They also placed her in the MR2 Championship as a
64 THE N TH DEGREE
Due
to
being
deemed
as
influential
she is lucky enough to be invited to
for a Nismo – Nissan’s Motorsport and Tuning division – for brand emersion and to test new sporty versions of cars in their current range as well as try her hand at an electric race car. Project Le Mans, launched at Autosport International in January this year, is a strong focus for the lady-racing driver, at least for the next fours years as she strives ahead on a plan to compete at arguably the ultimate endurance race in the world. Having spent the last two years racing a Porsche 924 achieving 5 podiums in season 2, 2013 sees a step up in to the quicker Boxster S. With the support of a good management and technical team, everyone plays a
embarking on the more powerful and just as competitive world of 911 racing. Despite
an
affinity
with
Porsche,
offers
from other manufacturers may tempt her away from the marque that has the most wins out of any other manufacturer at Le Mans. One thing is certain though, her preference is rear wheel drive, which not only lends itself to this type of circuit racing but also ignites the precision driving skills she possesses. The project has been featured in titles such as Motorsport News, Autoexpress, Practical Performance Car and The Sun, with new companies making product and advertising enquiries as a result of this,
which
means
the
£12,000
deficit
for
2013,
should
be
easily
filled.
Rebecca looks forward to sharing some of her best moments and more in depth stories and reviews from the addictive world of exotic cars, racing and prestige motor vehicles.
key role in the project from Corbeau Seats, Custom Cages and Lifeline Fire and Safety Systems keeping our new colleague safe, Mintex race pads to help her scrub speed when entering a hair pin at speeds most will only dream of and Redline Oil keeping that Flat 6 Boxster engine sounding and running as it should, of course with the watchful eye of Solutions Racing. This is before
THE N TH DEGREE 65
Terry Morris is a highly-acclaimed photographic artist, with international renown. Currently based in Wales, Terry undertakes commissions and private assignments all over the world.
TERRY
Morris
portrait artist
66 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 67
Having
established
himself
as
a
photographer in the 1990s, his career took off in 2006 with the launch of his first
high-profile
photographic
collection
at the Wales Millennium Centre.
photographic collection to celebrate Britain’s most highly-acclaimed chefs, including the likes of Albert Roux OBE, Raymond Blanc OBE and Heston Blumenthal.
Cool
Cymru,
Wales’s
first
photographic
In 2010, Terry cemented his voluntary
hall of fame, was launched to critical acclaim. It featured the country’s biggest names, including Sir Anthony Hopkins, Sir Tom Jones and Dame Shirley Bassey. Alongside the
relationship with Welsh educational bodies by accepting an Honorary Fellowship at Glyndwr University, Wrexham. He has also recently been appointed Arts Ambassador by
collection,
Terry
published
his
first
book and featured in a documentary television series charting his rise to the
top
of
his
field.
Carmarthenshire County Council, a role through which he can support, nurture and develop local artists.
He has since gone on to create several other
high-profile
collections,
working
with well-respected names in the world of the arts, sports and politics, including Sir Alex Ferguson, The First Minister, and the Secretary of State.
In 2011, Terry was recognized as one of the world’s best photographic artists, being chosen to feature on the front cover of ‘Best of International Photographic Artists – Volume I’, an accolade which he was honoured to receive.
He has also published another top selling book (Faces of Stradey Park), which has charted in the Top 10 of sporting books.
Alongside his photographic endeavours, Terry
is
also
leading
a
high-profile
In 2010, he was commissioned by Sports Wales to capture the unique
Throughout his career, Terry has
relationship between Welsh sporting stars and their coaches – a collection which won the commissioning organisation a gold award at the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR) Pride Awards 2010. His most recent commission, from The Academy of Culinary Arts, is a
68 THE N TH DEGREE
campaign for the creation of a National Portrait Gallery in Wales. supported many charitable causes, most recently Help for Heroes, a cause close to his heart owing to his background in the British Army. 26 Alban Road, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire, SA15 1EW +44 (0) 7974 389 757 terry@terrymorrisphotography.com www.terrymorrisphotography.com
THE N TH DEGREE 69
paul james griffiths freelance photographer
As a freelance photographer, being invited by Bob Walton MBE to assist in the creation of the Nth Degree’s
fist
addition
of
it’s
private
dining
guide
was
an opportunity not to be turned down.
It has indeed, proven to be a unique and fascinating experience which has enabled me to produce an incredible portfolio
of
some
of
London’s
finest
and most prestigious venues and restaurants. I trust you will enjoy viewing these photographs and they will convey each venue in all it’s splendour from the style of front of house to a sneak preview of behind the scenes and the dynamic chefs who run them with their exceptional attention to detail in food preparation.
www.paulgriffithsphotography.com
70 THE N TH DEGREE
private dining room guide
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72 THE N TH DEGREE
Location of Private Dining Room Private dining rooms are located on the ground floor
near
the
back
of
the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £35 per head Lunch £50 per head dinner Wines start from £30.00 Room hire Aspen room only £100 lunch £150 for dinner Michelin star 1
O
37 Conduit Street, London, W1S 2YF Tel: 020 7078 9579 Email: alynwilliams@ westburymayfair.com Restaurant opened 2011 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 2 Private Dining Rooms: Semi-private Dining Room called the Wine room with capacity for up to 8 guests The Aspen room with capacity for 10 to 20 guests
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the westbury hotel
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alyn williams
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V
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located in the old bank vault in the lower level of the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £60 per head Wines start from £26.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend A minimum spend of £750 is required
R
30 North Audley Street, London, W1K 6ZF Tel: 020 7647 2525 Email: info@ bancarestaurant.com Restaurant opened 2012 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity for 6 to 18 guests Location of Private Dining Room Private Dining room is
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banca
THE N TH DEGREE 75
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Wines start from £22.50 Room hire No room hire Minimum spend No minimum spend for over 8 guests
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76 THE N TH DEGREE
both located on the ground floor
at
the
back
of
the
restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £35 per head
N
66 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7LA Tel: 020 7201 3899 Email: barboulud@ mohg.com Restaurant opened 2010 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 2 Private Dining Rooms: Capacity for 8 to 20 guests in each room Location of Private Dining Room Private Dining rooms are
I
mandarin oriental hotel
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bar boulud
THE N TH DEGREE 77
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Wines start from £27.00 per bottle Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend No minimum spend required for over 6 guests during lunch and 8 guests during dinner Style of Room The Kitchen Library is Richard Corrigan’s personal library and has spectacular views of the pass The Chef’s Table is warm and club like The Lindsay Room is luxurious and classical
O
78 THE N TH DEGREE
The Lindsay Room is in the back of the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £60 per head
R
28 Upper Grosvenor Street, London, W1K 7EH Tel: 020 7499 9943 Email: reservations@ corrigansmayfair.com Restaurant opened 2008 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 3 Private Dining Rooms: The Kitchen Library has a capacity for 2 to 6 guests The Chef’s Table has a capacity for 8 to 12 guests The Lindsay Room has a capacity for 12 to 25 guests Location of Private Dining Room The Kitchen Library is located in the kitchen The Chef’s Table is located just to the left of the entrance
G
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corrigans mayfair
THE N TH DEGREE 79
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located in a mezzanine area overlooking the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £52 per head Wines start from £19.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend Minimum spend of £1000 is required during lunch and £1500 during dinner Michelin star 1
I
St Botolphs Hall, 35 Spital Square, London, E1 6DY Tel: 020 7299 0400 Email: info@ galvinrestaurants.com Restaurant opened 2009 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Semi Private Dining Room: Capacity for 10 to 16 guests Location of Private Dining Room Private Dining room is
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galvin la chapelle
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V
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Le Petit Salon features many unique decorative and architectural touches, including a huge French giltwood mirror and a magnificent
19th
Century
fire
surround The Games room features lots
of
unique
fixtures,
including an old 1950s arcade machine and a selection of interesting vintage prints and pictures The Hidden Room is marshmallow pink and full of character The Chefs Room is intimate and warm – doubling as a cellar for the Restaurant
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Location of Private Dining Room All private rooms are located on
the
second
floor
of
the
restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £48 per head Wines start from £23.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend £2500 for Le Petit Salon £3500 for Le Grand Salon Style of Room Le Grand Salon features original Georgian sash windows and a 19th Century French
marble
fire
surround
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21 Romilly Street, London, W1D 5AF Tel: 020 7494 3111 Email: info@ gauthiersoho.co.uk Restaurant opened 2010 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 5 Private Dining Rooms: Le Grand Salon with capacity for 20 to 40 guests Le Petit Salon with capacity for 12 to 26 guests The Games room with capacity for 10 to 20 guests The Hidden Room with capacity for 4 to 12 guests The Chefs Room with capacity for up to 2 to 4 guests
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gauthier soho
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84 THE N TH DEGREE
Location of Private Dining Room Private Dining room is located
on
the
ground
floor
of the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £80 per head Wines start from £32.00 Room hire Room hire fee of £200 for lunch and £250 for dinner Michelin star 1
G
27a Hay’s Mews, Mayfair, London, W1J 5NY Tel: 020 7499 3331 Email: reservations@ greenhouserestaurant.co.uk Restaurant opened 1977 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room Capacity for 6 to 12 guests
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house
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the green-
THE N TH DEGREE 85
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Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £70.00 per head Wines start from £25.00 Room hire Room hire fee of £750 is applicable if the booking is under 7 guests Style of room Historically British with traditional wood beamed ceiling and leather-clad walls Michelin star 1
M
66 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7LA Tel: 020 7201 3833 Email: molon-dinnerpdr@ mohg.com Restaurant opened 2011 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity for 4 to 10 guests Location of Private Dining Room Upper
ground
floor
O
E
D
O
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mandarin oriental hotel
N
heston
I
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dinner by
THE N TH DEGREE 87
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located on the lower level of the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £35 per head lunch £90 per head dinner Wines start from £26.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend Minimum numbers 8 people Michelin star 2
R
20 Maddox Street, London, W1S 2PA Tel: 020 7629 2999 Email: info@ hibiscusrestaurant.co.uk Restaurant opened 2000 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity for 8 to 18 guests Location of Private Dining Room Private Dining Room is
G
I
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hibiscus
THE N TH DEGREE 89
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located
on
the
first
floor
of
the restaurant Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £50 per head Wines start from £26.75 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend Minimum spend from £2000 Style of room Classic
G
1 – 5 West Street, London, WC2H 9NQ Tel: 020 7836 4751 Email: rellis@the-ivy.co.uk Restaurant opened 1917 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room Seating capacity for 25 to 60 guests Location of Private Dining Room The Private Dining Room is
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the ivy
THE N TH DEGREE 91
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Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £60 per head Wines start from £25.00 Room hire No room hire Minimum spend Minimum spend required for lunch is £1000 and for dinner £1500
G
2-24 Kensington High Street, London, W8 4PT Tel: 020 7361 1988 Email: privatedining@ minjiang.co.uk Restaurant opened 2008 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity for 8 to 20 guests Location of Private Dining Room Tenth
floor
N
royal garden hotel
I
G
N
min jiang
THE N TH DEGREE 93
V
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located on a raised platform adjacent to the main dining room Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £70 per head Wines start from £29.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend £500 minimum spend Michelin star 1
G
20 Queen Street, London, W1J 5PP Tel: 020 7495 1127 Email: enquires@ muranolondon.com Restaurant opened 2008 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity for 6 to 12 guests Location of Private Dining Room Private dining room is
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murano by angela hartnett
THE N TH DEGREE 95
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Private Dining room is located
on
the
first
floor
Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £60 per head Wines start from £25.00 Room hire A room hire fee of £300 for lunch and £500 for dinner Minimum spend Minimum number of 12 people Michelin star 1
N
The Metropolitan Hotel, 19 Old Park Lane, London, W1K 1LB Tel: 020 7447 4747 Email: London.reservations@ noburestaurants.co.uk Restaurant opened 1997 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room Capacity for 12 to 50 guests Location of Private Dining Room
I
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N
nobu london
THE N TH DEGREE 97
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Michelin star 1
O
98 THE N TH DEGREE
floor
in
the
basement
Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £50 per head Wines start from £25.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend £700 Style of room Modern and stylish with glass walls on one side giving views of the kitchen
O
8 Pollen Street, London, W1S 1NQ Tel: 020 7290 7600 Email: reservations@ pollenstreetsocial.com Restaurant opened 2011 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room Capacity for 12 to 14 guests Location of Private Dining Room The Private Dining Room is located on the lower ground
R
social
THE N TH DEGREE 99
V
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O O R G
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N
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jumeirah carlton tower
E
M
T
the rib room
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Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £65 per head Wines start from £30.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend £1600 minimum spend for the Boardroom is required for dinner Style of Rooms The Buccleuch Room is stylish and “club like” with access to the Cigar Terrace The Topolski room is cordoned off from the restaurant with a curtain and features works of art from the Expressionist painter Topolski The Boardroom is chic and contemporary
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On Codagen Place, London, SW1X 9PY Tel: 020 7858 7250 Email: reservations@ theribroom.co.uk Restaurant opened 1961 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 3 Private Dining Rooms: The Topolski Room with capacity for 4 to 8 guests The Buccleuch Room with capacity for 8 to 14 guests The Board Room with capacity for 14 to 18 guests Location of Private Dining Room Private dining rooms are located
on
the
ground
floor
of the restaurant
THE N TH DEGREE 101
V
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Location of Private Dining Room The Private Dining Rooms are both located on Level 38 of the Gherkin with unique views of the Capital City Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £58 per head Wines start from £22.50 Room hire £300 to £380 room hire fee depending on choice of room Minimum spend Minimum spend of £780 is required for dinner
M
30 St Mary Axe, London, EC3A 8EP Tel: 020 7071 5011 Email: entertaining@ searcys.co.uk Restaurant opened 2004 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 2 Private Dining Rooms: Glenmorangie Signet Room with capacity for up to 12 guests Richard Hennessy Room with capacity for up to 16 guests
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E
O
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A
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searcys the gherkin
THE N TH DEGREE 103
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located near the entrance of the restaurant on the ground
floor
Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £40 per head lunch £90 per head dinner Wines start from £30.00 Room hire No room hire fee Minimum spend A minimum number of 8 people Michelin stars 2
N
6-10 Bruton Street, London, W1J 6PU Tel: 020 7495 7100 Email: reception@ squarerestaurant.com Restaurant opened 1991 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity for 8 to 18 guests Location of Private Dining Room Private dining room is
I
G
N
the square
THE N TH DEGREE 105
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Location of Private Dining Room Ground
floor
of
the
restaurant
Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £85
per
head Wines start from £29.00 Room hire No
room
hire
fee Minimum spend A minimum of 8 people Michelin star 1
R
34 Portman Street, London, W1H 7BY Tel: 020 7224 0028 Email: info@ texture-restaurant.co.uk Restaurant opened 2007 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room 1 Private Dining Room: Capacity of 8 to 16 guests
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texture
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Location of Private Dining Room Private Dining Room is
on
the
ground
floor
of the hotel Guide price of set menus per head Menu starts from £73 per head Wines start from £49.00 Room hire From £3000 Dress Code Jacket and tie
G
150 Piccadilly, London, W1J 9BR Tel: 020 7493 8181 Email: enquire@ theritzlondon.com Restaurant opened 2006 Seating capacity of Private Dining Room The William Kent Room has a capacity of 12 to 26 guests
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the ritz hotel
I
G
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the william kent room,
THE N TH DEGREE 109
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S
O
I
K S
K N I R D
E
Position of bar The bar is located on the ground
floor Drinks Wines start at £24.00 Cocktails start at £12.00 Champagne starts at £48.00
É
24
Hertford
Street,
London, W1J 7SA Tel: 020 7495 5000 Email: colony.reception@ gentingcasinos.co.uk Bar opened 2012
R
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the
first
floor
of
the
establishment with the restaurant on the lower level Drinks Wines start at £30.00 Cocktails start at £12.50 Champagne starts at £59.00
I
145 Knightsbridge, London, SW1X 7PA Tel: 020 3667 5222 Email: reservations@ buddhabarlondon.com Bar opened 2012 Position of bar The bar is located on
O
S
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buddha bar
colony club bar
THE N TH DEGREE 111
S S
S
O
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D S
K N I R D
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Position of bar Ground
floor
and
first
floor
Venetian room Drinks Wines start at £21.00 Champagne at £35.00
É
Stratton Street, Piccadilly, London, W1J 8LB Tel: 020 7491 8822 Opened 1976
R
Position of bar The Bar is on the 28th Floor of
the
Hilton
on
Park
Lane Drinks Wines start at £18.50 Cocktails start at £15.00 Champagne starts at £60.00
langan’s brasserie
I
The Hilton, 22 Park Lane, London, United Kingdom W1K 1BE Tel: 020 7208 4021 Email: reservations@ galvinatwindows.com Opened 2006
O
S
S
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galvin at windows
THE N TH DEGREE 113
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É
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K S
K N I D
The bar is located within the restaurant and the Members Club is located on the
first
floor Drinks Wines start at £21.00 Cocktails start at £7.50 Champagne starts at £55.00
E
26-29 Dean Street, London, W1D 3LL Tel: 020 7437 9585 Email:
info@ quovadissoho.co.uk Opened 1926 Position of bar
É
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Position of bar Lower
level
of
Dabbous
Restaurant Drinks Wines start at £24.00 Cocktails start at £8.50 Champagne starts at £55.00
R
39
Whitfield
Street,
London, W1T 2SF Tel: 020 7323 1544 Email:
info@dabbous.co.uk
Bar opened 2012
quo vadis
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oskar’s bar, dabbous
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The Jax Coco story began in Asia after four coconut water enthusiasts – Jane, Jason, Alex and Max – noticed that while there were plenty of young coconuts (and even more coconut water lovers), there didn’t seem to be any coconut water products packaged for easy consumption. In Asia, coconut water has traditionally been drunk straight from the nut.
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Since that time, the Jax Coco concept has expanded. In the process of creating Jax Coco, the Jax Team wanted to create an international lifestyle brand
Jax Coco is the fruit of this process. Inspired by the crisp coconut water that it champions, Jax Coco unites the
purest,
premium
micro-filtered
that would transcend its Asian borders and look past the beaches and the palm trees that other brands propagate. The Jax
Team,
heavily
influenced
by
fashion,
coconut water with a tasteful, minimalist design. Whether at a bar, in the club, taken up the slopes, or shared amongst friends on a hot
music
(Elton
John
is
a
co-owner)
art
and
contemporary culture, wanted to present a re-interpretation of coconut water to the world that would feel modern and refreshing, and revitalize a simple ‘drink
summer’s day, Jax Coco will deliver the best tasting and most refreshing coconut water in the world in a package that emanates virtuosity, simplicity and elegance.
for life’ that has, for centuries, provided nutrition and hydration.
Serve it chilled. Drink for life. www.jaxcoco.com
Jax Coco Eco Factory - ‘Jax Box’ The Jax Coco story continues with its infrastructure
and
is
one
of
the
first
coconut water companies to have its own factory and infrastructure. The creative team behind Jax Coco have designed
and
built
the
very
first
Eco
factory of its kind. The factory is made of 40ft recycled shipping containers and has been named the ‘Jax Box’. Jax
Coco
are
the
first
company
to
source and pay for coconuts directly from the farmers and plough these funds back into the farmers community for housing, schools and churches. The ‘Jax Box’ will be a tourist attraction and have a
The benefits of coconut water Coconut water gives pure and natural hydration Coconut water is naturally isotonic, containing 5 essential electrolytes Our coconut water has no added sugar Coconut water is naturally free from fat, gluten, cholesterol, preservatives and
artificial
sweeteners Coconut water is low in calories with 18-24 calories per 100ml (compared to 48 calories per 100ml in orange juice) 118 THE N TH DEGREE
viewing gallery at the top looking down into the production line, as well as accommodation for the workers and a separate hotel for visitors. The coconuts will come straight from picking to the factory maintaining the taste of a freshly picked coconut.
EXCLUSIVE - Jax Coco will be running a global competition to design an individual Jax Box and the winner will have their design printed up alongside famous artists who have already committed to designing Jax Coco boxes.
Jax Coco otherwise known as the Krug of coconut water.
Coco Tall Negroni Revised a classic aperitif 60 ml Mancino Vermouth Rosso Amaranto 30 ml Campari Bitter 60 ml Jax Coco 1 Long orange zest METHOD: Build the Vermouth and Campari in a tall glass with high quality of ice and top up with Jax Coco
Ocean Water Mojito
GARNISH:
20ml Jax Coco
Long bar spoon and long orange zest
1 Whole lime 1 Bar Spoon Desiccated coconut 30 ml of Agave Syrup 2 Spring of Fresh Mint 40 Ml Rum Blanco 2 drops of Angostura Bitter METHOD: Muddle in a rock glass, lime, Jax Coco, coconut desiccated and agave syrup, mint, add the rum, cover the glass with crushed ice and stir well. GARNISH: Small spring of mint and 2 drops of angostura bitter
THE N TH DEGREE 119
ants Designed as a tribute to the Aston Martin DBR1 that won the 1959 Le Mans 24-Hour Endurance Race,
this
is
the
first
and
most
unique
Airfix
style
kit
of
an
Aston
Martin ever to be seen. It comes complete with a replica of the original Le Mans trophy and an Aston Martin cap signed by both drivers from the original 1959 race. The kit includes a body-shell in two parts, lights, screens, four 16” Aston Martin wire wheels with Dunlop race tyres, a 15’ woodrimmed steering wheel, a pair of race seats, upholstered in Aston Martin-style weave material and leather headrests. The kit went under the hammer at the Goodwood Revival festival and sold for £27,000
This kit is the ultimate toy for the rich boy
who
never
grew
up,
an
Airfixstyle replica of a classic Aston Martin racer. Anyone who whiled away their
versions of classic cars. The kit includes a composite-material DBR1 body-shell in two parts, painted in Aston Martin Californian Sage Green
regarded
as
Aston
Martin’s
finest
win,
coming after a poor start to the 1959 World Sportscar Championship season and then delivering a one two for Aston
enthusiast, and would undoubtedly be a great talking point among friends for years to come.’ Evanta Motor Company is a privately
The workshops are located in the heart of the historic county town of Hertford. A short walk from both train stations, and with ample parking. Evanta welcome
childhoods
piecing
together
the
flimsy
plastic pieces of World War II aircraft,
with full race livery, lights, screens, four 16” Aston Martin wire wheels with
A in the second DBR1 driven by Maurice Trintignant and Paul Frere.
owned family business, made up of a small, dedicated team of highly trained
visitors by appointment only.
historic vehicles and boats, will recognise instantly the individual body parts waiting to be snapped out of their frame for assembly. This, though, costs far more than the two or three pounds for the smaller versions available in hobby shops and requires more than a
Dunlop race tyres and Aston Martin’s three-eared spinners. There is a ‘Mota Lita’ 15-inch wood-rimmed steering wheel, a pair of race seats upholstered in Aston Martin-style weave material with leather-bound headrests, a machined aluminium gear knob and gear lever
Ant Anstead, Evanta’s managing director said: ‘Aston Martin’s Le Mans win of 1959 is a huge part of British motorsport. The loss of drivers Carroll Shelby and Roy Salvadori, and chief engineer Ted Cutting, this year is very saddening. We wanted to offer a tribute to these three
tube of glue and some pots of paint. Designed by Ant Anstead and his
and
a
full
dashboard
finished
in
textured
satin black, assembled using Smiths
great men and to such a beautiful and iconic car and thought what could be a
and
experienced
fabricators
and
technicians. Each member of the team is focussed on assembling world class and award winning motorcars. Evanta’s industry contacts span the globe, and
their
work
is
extended
to
include
various forms of fabrication, restoration, prototyping and even artwork.
dedicated team at The Hertfordshire based Evanta Motor Company, the project was a tribute to the Aston Martin DBR1 that won the 1959 Le Mans 24-Hour Endurance Race. The piece measures almost 21ft long by 11ft tall
gauges and period switches. The kit also comes with a replica of the original Le Mans trophy and an Aston Martin cap signed by Aston’s two drivers in the famous 1959 race: American Carroll Shelby and Briton
more
fun
and
fitting
tribute
than
every
boy’s dream toy: a life-size model.’ Toby Wilson, Head of the Automobilia Department at Bonham’s, which sold the kit, said: ‘This piece of artwork is utterly unique, and the attention to detail
and was assembled at Evanta, which specialises in creating modern-day
Roy Salvadori, both of whom sadly died earlier this year. The event was
is fascinating. It will be a fantastic centre piece to the collection of any racing
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Evanta Motor Company Unit 2, Great Northern Works, Hartham Lane, Hertford, Hertfordshire, SG14 1QN Telephone: +44 (0) 1992 677 091 Email: info@evanta.co.uk www.evanta.co.uk
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C
enturion Club
The Centurion Club is one of Britain’s newest and most acclaimed private members’ Golf Clubs. It is situated close to the ancient town of St Albans, just over 20 miles from the centre of London, and gets its name from the fact that St Albans – or Verulamium as it was then – was once one of the major towns in Roman Britain and the scene of the famous Battle of Watling Street in AD 60 or 61 in which a Roman General, Gaius Suetonious Paulinus, and his Centurions led a Roman army to victory over Icenian rebel, Boudicca, thereby ending resistance to Roman rule in the southern portion of Britannia for almost 400 years.
The Club, built in this historic setting, features an outstanding golf course designed by acclaimed international course architect, Simon Gidman, a
Gidman’s belief is that a golf course should
be
defined
by
the
spirit
of
its
landscape and that philosophy is evident at Centurion Club where he has created
former President of the European
a natural lay-out which meanders
Institute of Golf Course Architects, in conjunction with Scott Evans, one of the course owners.
over rolling landscape and features 80 bunkers, four major water features and undulating bent grass greens. At 7,200
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yards from the back tees, the course boasts
a
fine
set
of
diverse
long
and
short holes, starting in mature woodland and culminating in a panoramic par-5 which sits below the clubhouse and is protected by a large lake to the right of the green. At Centurion Club great emphasis has been placed on delivering excellence for its members and their invited guests. That is why Gidman was employed as course architect and why Southern Golf were brought in as construction consultants. Subsequently, Troon Golf has been installed to advise on agronomy while a luxurious clubhouse has been designed
to
exacting
specifications
by
acclaimed architects, Harrison Mutch. Troon Golf has, for the past two decades, managed
many
of
the
finest
golf
courses
THE N TH DEGREE 123
in over 25 countries around the world,
That aspiration was also shared by
including Turnberry, The Grove and Bearwood Lakes in the UK, and Troon North, La Zagaleta, Abu Dhabi Golf Club, Mazagan and Kapalua internationally
Centurion Club’s management team, led by Chairman, Graham Wildish, and Managing Director, Scott Evans, who has spent 25 years working in senior
and it utilised all the experience it has garnered during that period to produce a course which has already received plaudits
in
the
golfing
media
and
is
management roles at Troon Golf in Arizona, Dubai Creek, Loch Lomond, Bearwood Lakes and several other prestigious golf clubs around Europe.
destined to be regarded as one of the Several other members of the team have finest
inland
courses
in
the
whole
of
the
considerable experience working at some United Kingdom. of the world’s most recognisable elite “The Romans are famous for leaving a golf clubs and that level of expertise will lasting legacy and that is something all be invaluable as the new club reinforces of us working on this project wanted to achieve at the Centurion Club,” said Simon Doyle, Troon Golf’s Head of Agronomy.
necessary to understand the needs and wants of our current and prospective members,” said Evans. “We realise that it is imperative that the course is in immaculate condition year-round, and will continually strive to provide unmatched facilities and customer service. We have the expertise necessary to implement a strategy to satisfy all concerned.
its deserved reputation for excellence.
“Furthermore, the business acumen offered by our team will ensure that the Club thrives in a sustainable manner,” he added. “We will offer our members what will become a world-renowned
“Through our work at other leading venues, we have garnered the experience
golf course, in an immaculate setting combined with an experience rarely
offered so close to a global urban hub such as London.” That prime location close to London and the motorway network is another advantage it has over many of its rivals. The Club is situated on the A4147, on the outskirts of St Albans, and close to Hemel Hempstead and many of the major conurbations in north London. It is only a couple of miles from junction 8 on the M1 and junction 21a on the M25, 10 minutes from Luton Airport, 25 minutes from Heathrow Airport and just under 30 minutes’ drive from the centre of London. The
Centurion
Club
operates
as
a private Club, strictly for the use of its members and their invited guests. There are currently four categories of Membership available; Senate, Centurion, International and Corporate. Further information about the Club and its membership packages can be found by logging onto Club website at www.centurionclub.co.uk. Guided tours of the Club’s facilities can be arranged by calling 01442 510 520.
124 THE N TH DEGREE
THE N TH DEGREE 125
in the words of Tony Hadley Tony Hadley, the eldest son of Josephine and Patrick, was born at The Royal Free Hospital, Islington, in London on the 2nd of June 1960. He attended Dame Alice Owen’s Grammar School and thought his future lay in medicine but, after winning a holiday singing competition, decided that his vocation was as a singer, the rest, as they say, is pure pop history.
Photography Phil Carpenter
AS lead singer of Spandau Ballet, Tony Hadley has over the years, earned the accolade of being one of pop music’s greatest vocalists. Pioneers of the 80s Romantic movement, Spandau Ballet formed in 1978 and had numerous chart topping singles and albums all over the world, some of the most memorable being the singles “Gold”, “Only When You Leave”, “Lifeline”, the epic “Through the Barricades” and of course the international number one “True”; the latter was famously sampled by PM Dawn in 1991 and featured on Paul Anka’s Rock Swings in 2005. In addition to all the band’s songs, many will remember his prominent vocal contribution to the Band Aid UK charity single “Do They Know It’s Christmas” and subsequent 1985 London appearance at Live Aid. He also performed solo at the Nelson Mandela Concert at Wembley in June 1988. I met with Tony and his manager Matt back in January at London’s Dorchester hotel, for what was to be a superb lunch in their
Grill
Room.
I
had
briefly,
and
I
mean
briefly,
met
Mr
Hadley
on
several
previous
occasions and ironically he recalled two of them instantly. Over lunch Tony spoke about life since Spandau Ballet… ‘My turning the page on Spandau Ballet, after we disbanded in 1990, really forced me to revert to the same raw instincts that brought me my early success and
126 THE N TH DEGREE
I feel I am now a solo artist in my own right. I have spent the past twenty years entertaining audiences all over the world singing and I don’t think my voice has lost any of its power, neither has my integrity for a good business plan, and that’s how the solo career had to be looked upon. I do a lot of writing and recording, including four solo studio albums; ‘State of Play’ on EMI Records, two albums through Universal Records, a self-titled album in 1998, and ‘True Ballads’ in 2003. Back in 2006, on my own label, Slipstream Records, I released my swing album ‘Passing Strangers’ which was a real ambition achieved. I’ve also released three live albums, two live DVDs and had European success with several dance music collaborations, so my instincts have served me very well over the years.’ On the live music front, Tony is a regular performer, delighting audiences at home and abroad with such events as the ‘Night of the Proms’ in Holland & Belgium, orchestral tours of Europe and South America, as well as on his own UK & European solo tours. In 2005 Tony’s contribution to the music industry
was
officially
recognised
with
the
award of a Gold Badge from the British Academy of Composers and Songwriters. Subsequently, in 2007, he won a new legion of fans following his critically acclaimed performance as Billy Flynn in Chicago on the London’s West End Stage. Tony’s appearances in the show gave the musical
THE N TH DEGREE 127
“I have been privileged to have performed with some of the greatest jazz orchestras in Europe”
one of its most successful runs ever and earned him an invitation to perform in the 10th Anniversary Show. I then ask Tony if he still does lots of travelling. ‘Yes I do and some to out of the way, off the beaten track places. As well as the conventional shows, I have played some extremely unusual venues for British NATO and UN Troops on active service in Bosnia, Kosovo, Kuwait, Cyprus, the Falkland Islands and Northern Ireland. I have entertained in everything from aircraft hangers & tank workshops to bombed-out theatres & derelict sports halls to mention a few. Above all, I have always felt it was a real honour to give something back and be asked to entertain our troops. Aside from his own live band, Tony also has a passion for ‘Swing’ with the likes of Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett and Jack Jones being just a few of his personal favourites. This love of swing came from when he used to sing in the British Legion in his local part of London as a child. He mentions the old guys in there who loved to hear him sing and used to buy him a drink if they liked the song. ‘Since those days, I have been privileged to have performed with some of the greatest jazz orchestras in Europe, including London, Holland, Italy and Spain’ he says. ‘In 2006 I actually released my swing album ‘Passing Strangers.’ It was a personal project that had been months in the planning and
I
think
it
truly
reflects
my
passion
for
the music.’ The album features some of Tony’s favourite songs and was released to coincide with his first
UK
Swing
tour,
aptly-named
‘Swinging
True’. Tony’s talents as an artist extend beyond the stage and in recent years his profile
has
heightened
further
in
the
UK
through television. His participation in the UK reality TV show ‘Reborn in the USA’, where he travelled across the US in a tour bus with eight other British artists, won him the public vote and the overall ‘crown’. I ask Tony if he has any plans to branch into alternative media.
128 THE N TH DEGREE
‘Believe it or not,’ he smiled, ‘I was quite a successful Radio DJ at Virgin Radio (now Absolute Radio), bringing my own brand of chat and music to the national airwaves every Friday & Saturday night. I left Virgin Radio in October 2008; however, I’m now planning my own radio show to be syndicated around the world.’ In May 2004 Macmillan Books released Tony’s autobiography ‘To Cut a Long Story Short’. The book charted Tony’s youth, his early days in the school band, and the heady heights of worldwide super stardom as lead singer of Spandau Ballet. The book was a huge success entering the Sunday Times Top Ten bestsellers chart. Tony loves spending time supporting charitable causes. As a patron of Shooting Star Children’s Hospice he has worked and performed annually at their fund raising events and, alongside his great friend and drummer from Spandau Ballet John Keeble, they won £64,000 for their chosen charity on British TV’s cult quiz show ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’. I ask Tony if he has connections with any other charitable causes. ‘Yes, I have a major involvement with Action Medical Research; participating in their treks to Machu Picchu, The Lost World (Venezuela) and last year, the Eden Trek, trekking
from
the
Pacific
to
Caribbean
coasts in Costa Rica, resulting in a huge sum of money being raised for the charity’s “Touching Tiny Lives” campaign, which looks at research into, and help for premature birth. Every autumn, I also host my own celebrity golf day to raise money for this charity.’ Tony is also a Patron of The Lowe Syndrome Trust and BIBIC (British Institute for Brain Injured Children), and supports Huntington’s Disease Association, Willow Foundation, NSPCC and the Rhys Daniels’ Trust. Aside from his life in the music industry and his charity work, I ask Tony if he has time for any other business interests. ‘Well, since 2006 I have been co-owner of the Red Rat Craft Brewery in Suffolk, and
we supply ales & stouts to Jimmy’s Farm, Threshers, Sainsbury’s, House of Fraser and to various regiments of the armed forces, including The Royal Anglian Regiment, The 7th Armoured Brigade ‘Desert Rats’, The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and 1 Squadron RAF Regiment. I’ve also got my own brand of award-winning ales, including Hadley’s Golden Ale, Hadley’s Crazy Dog Stout and, this year, we will launch Hadley’s Gold and Hadley’s SB. More recently, I also got involved in the set up of a new satellite TV channel, featuring programmes on music, beer & sport with a light-hearted emphasis. It’s right up my street,’ he smiles. I ask Tony how he copes running a business, continuing an international singing career and making time for the family, as well as keeping
so
fit
and
healthy. Tony chuckles and replies, ‘I’ve got four kids, and
they
keep
me
as
fit
as
a
fiddle,
I
can
tell
you. I regularly run and exercise, so this keeps me on the ball so to speak. Most of all though, I love my ski holidays, scuba diving and water skiing in the summer. However, one of my biggest passions is football. I’m a regular at all the Arsenal matches and I play for Arsenal ex-Professional and Celebrity XI
team,
whenever
I
can
fit
in
the
time.
My
speciality is the ‘own goal,’ he laughs. So, what’s next for Tony Hadley? ‘Well, as most people know, 2009 saw the reformation of me and Spandau Ballet, with all the original members back together again. Our world tour kicked off in late March and our UK Arena Show dates started in the Autumn, so I was an extremely busy bunny.’ The Spandau tour celebrated the band’s greatest hits and lead singer Tony once again captured audiences with his distinct smooth style and powerful voice. I was lucky enough to see one of the World’s greatest bands back on stage performing together and it will remain in my memory forever.
THE N TH DEGREE 129
mandarin oriental
With the world class shopping of Knightsbridge and leafy Hyde Park on
its
doorstep,
the
iconic
five
star
Mandarin
Oriental
Hyde
Park
boasts London’s most fashionable destination. Behind the exquisite materials
and
handcrafted
finishes
in
each
of
the
hotel’s
rooms
and
suites
lie
the
latest
technology
and
a
level
of
refined
luxury
that
only
something
of
uncompromising
quality
can
achieve.
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The award-winning restaurants, Bar Boulud, London and Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, offer French bistro fare and historically inspired British cuisine,
RESTAURANTS
whilst
Mandarin
Bar
remains
one
of
London’s most popular destination bars.
The
Spa
at
Mandarin
Oriental,
London
is
a
haven
of
tranquillity,
born
exciting dining experiences in London. Lyon born, Chef Daniel Boulud features French bistro fare at Bar Boulud, London whilst Heston Blumenthal, one of
the
UK’s
most
prominent
chefs,
revives
Britain’s illustrious gastronomic past.
out of a sincere understanding for wellness and offering holistic therapies that combine both ancient and contemporary techniques. SPA The
Spa
at
Mandarin
Oriental,
London
is
a
haven
of
tranquillity
within
the
heart
of
Knightsbridge that combines harmonious design elements with therapeutic rituals and is entirely dedicated to the guest’s wellbeing. Adopting a different approach to the traditional spa experience, the spa
offers
a
series
of
innovative
and
restorative
treatments,
known
as
‘Time
Rituals’, where guests are encouraged to
book
‘Time’
rather
than
a
specific
treatment. Expert therapists analyse each guests’ lifestyle and characteristics at the beginning
of
each
‘ritual’
in
order
to
tailor
the
experience
to
the
individuals’
needs.
132 THE N TH DEGREE
With unique interiors designed by Adam Tihany,
Mandarin
Oriental
Hyde
Park,
London
has
unveiled
two
of
the
most
It is thanks to these award winning restaurants
that
Mandarin
Oriental
Hyde
Park,
London
is
now
firmly
at
the
centre of London’s dining scene. Bar Boulud Set in bustling Knightsbridge, the Award winning Bar Boulud, London is a French inspired bistro and wine bar, which follows the successful format of Bar Boulud in New York. A full menu is based on seasonal, rustic French cooking and includes
various
signature
dishes
as
well charcuterie specially prepared on site by a world class Charcutier. The Adam D. Tihany designed interior comprises of two large connecting rooms,
the
first
with
an
impressive
zinc
topped bar and the second with a sleek
open kitchen, allowing guests to watch the theatrical delights of the chefs at work.
Additionally
there
are
two
private
dining rooms which seat up to twenty guests for a more intimate affair. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal Heston
Blumenthal,
of
the
three
Michelin
starred The Fat Duck in Bray, Berkshire, has won international acclaim for his unique and multi-sensory approach to cooking. Dinner by Heston Blumenthal is his
first
London
restaurant
and
features
the Chef’s inimitable style of culinary alchemy
with
a
menu
heavily
influenced
by
his
ongoing
research
and
discovery
of historic British gastronomy. Mandarin Bar Mandarin
Bar
is
one
of
London’s
most
popular drinking destinations and the epicentre of Knightsbridge nightlife. Recently named the number one hotel bar
in
town
by
Time
Out
magazine
it
is
the premier place to see and be seen with stylish, late-licensed surroundings to
accompany
its
ambient
buzz.
Relax
in sumptuous leather sofas whilst enjoying an array of exotic nibbles and captivating
cocktails.
THE N TH DEGREE 133
superfly
In its nearly 30 meters of length the Azimut 95 Flybridge, lays down new interpretations of Italianmade elegance
in
the
refinement
of
its
large
spaces
devoted
to
onboard
life
in
maximum
comfort,
the
superb
lighting
of
the
interiors,
and
its
dynamic
profile.
azimut 134 THE N TH DEGREE
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The
wheelhouse
area
and
the
galley
are
accessible
from
the
outside,
ensuring
the
total
absence
of
interference
by
the
crew
with
onboard
life.
The
lower
deck
presents
four
spacious
cabins:
in
particular
evidence
are
the
owner’s
cabin,
remarkable
for
its
spaciousness
and
luxuriousness
with
a
double
bath,
Jacuzzi
and
shower,
and
an
exceptional
VIP
cabin
with
a
45°
bed
and
large
windows,
while
the
t wo
guest
cabins
are
among
the
roomiest
in
their
category.
Charter Rates Winter
France/Italy
$94
900
USD/
EUR65000 Summer
France/Italy
$94
900
USD/
EUR65000 Included
Yacht
&
Crew.
Not
Included
APA
30
Overall Specifications Length
O verall
29.87
m
(98’) Beam
at
main
section
6.85
m
(22’
6”) Draft
at
full
load
1.86
m
(6’
1”) Fuel
capacity
12000
l
(3170
US
gal) Water
capacity
1800
l
(476
US
gal) Cabins
4
+
crew Berths
8
+
crew Bathrooms
6
+
crew Building
material
GRP Keel
V-shape
with
angle
of
deadrise
9.6°
aft Engines
2
x
1825
mHP
(1341
kW) CAT
C32
ACERT
12
V Maximum
Speed
26.5
knots Cruising
Speed
23
knots Concept
&
exterior
design
Stefano
Righini Interior
design
Carlo
Galeazzi Source:
A zimut
Yachts
“the two guest cabins are amongst the roomiest in their category”
AZIMUT’S
beautiful
creation
has
been
experiencing
the
sea
on
this
particular
designed in accordance with a criteria model:
a
notable
roominess
that
makes
of
rationality
in
the
use
of
spaces,
it
the
biggest
of
the
category
in
absolute.
understood
as
forms
that
have
to
‘collaborate’
with
the
style,
exceptional
simplicity
of
operation,
and
maximum
intimacy
for
owner
and
guests
and
offers more than 175m2 of space for onboard
life.
The three windows on either side of the deckhouse
give
dynamism
to
the
profile
and
a
perfectly
diffused
luminosity
as
a
function
of
the
internal
structures.
The
spacious
main
deck
is
rationally
subdivided
by
fine
cherry
furniture
The
large
fly
bridge
area,
equipped
with
between
the
large
saloon,
positioned
a
functional
adjustable
hard
top,
the
fully
on
a
single
level
and
the
lunch
area,
roofed
cockpit
and
the
generous
bow
offering
a
panoramic
view
of
the
sea
spaces
are
cosy
‘lofts’
on
the
water.
In
thanks to the central windows of the particular,
the
fly
bridge
is
the
area
that
deckhouse
that
descend
to
the
level
of
best
shows
the
abundance
of
spaces
for
the
washboard.
136 THE N TH DEGREE
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Their favourite choices of gifts are: 1 Red Wine 33%
5 Imported Spirits 21%
2 Watches 26%
6 Art 19%
3 Smokes 26%
7 Gift Coupons 14%
UK luxury brands in China
Chinese food in the UK is now strongly influenced
by
Sichuan-style
cooking.
Chinese tourists prefer authentic Chinese food, rather than more experimental fusion food.
•
Cars
Min Jiang (at the Royal Garden Hotel)
4 Electronics 26% 8 Fashion 12%
Jason Li has been appointed business development manager for China and South East Asia at the Royal Garden Hotel. He is now responsible for managing and growing both corporate and leisure group accounts, having moved internally from his previous role as general manager at Min Jiang, the hotel’s renowned Chinese restaurant. Jason also writes for two Chinese newspapers. 1) What do the Chinese love about UK? Chinese tourists are much in demand these days – not least in Britain. They love the British royal family and tend to spend on average three times more than other overseas visitors. In principle, Britain should be a major destination for Chinese tourists. Britain has an unparalleled reputation for goods that are considered to be much higher quality than those made in China; Burberry and Clarks shoes are especially famous in China for their style and craftsmanship. England’s green parks, countryside and Victorian houses are very attractive to Chinese visitors used to crowded, noisy cities such as Beijing and Shanghai. The capital is viewed
138 THE N TH DEGREE
as modern and dynamic, while being imbued with history. The Buckingham Palace, British Museum and Tower of London are reliable magnets for tourists, as popular as English afternoon tea
and
fish
and
chips.
Other
British
cultural icons appreciated by Chinese guests include Scottish whisky, teddy bears, Harry Potter, Sherlock Holmes, Peter Rabbit, Alice in Wonderland, Shakespeare, Pride and Prejudice, Mr Bean, the Beatles, Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea, London Eye and Big Ben, etc. 2) Why do the Chinese like private dining? There is a restaurant in Changsha, the capital of Hunan province, called West
Lake Restaurant (Chinese: Xihulou). With its 5,000 seats, it is one of the largest Chinese restaurants in the world, and the largest in Asia, according to an entry in the Guinness Book of Records. The numerous buildings were constructed in traditional Chinese style. The entire complex covers four different areas and includes a total of 89 large and small private rooms. The restaurant mainly offers traditional Chinese dishes of Hunan cuisine and Cantonese
Land Rover, Jaguar, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Aston Martin
•
Fashion
Burberry, Dunhill
•
Yachts
Sunseeker, Princess
• Education
Boarding Schools, Universities
•
Drinks
Whiskies
•
Shopping
Harrods, Selfridges
4) Where do they like staying in London and UK? • Shangri-La
• Hilton
• Royal Garden
• Ritz
• Langham
• Hyatt
five
kitchens.
• Dorchester
• Marriott
3) What are the favourite shops in UK?
• Mandarin
Oriental
Chinese tourists’ favourite shops and
5) What are Chinese visitors’ favourite restaurants in London?
cuisine. The restaurant employs a thousand people, including 300 chefs in
brands are:
immigrants from Sichuan brought the spicy pepper and chilli with them and
Royal China Club (40 Baker Street) Hunan (Sloane Square) Bar Shu (China Town) Empress of Sichuan (China Town) Yauatcha (Soho) Palm Court (at the Langham for afternoon tea) Bar Boulud
(at
the
Mandarin
Oriental) Koffmann’s (at The Berkeley) Locanda Locatelli The River Café Heston Blumenthal (at the Mandarin Oriental
Hyde
Park) 6) How many Chinese tourists are set to come to the UK over the next few years?
Chinese tourists’ favourite food is Chinese, followed by French and Italian
Travellers from China are going abroad in record numbers (80 million in 2012). Currently the world’s second largest
• Rolex
food. In the UK, the most popular form of Chinese food is ‘Cantonese’. This is food from the Guangdong (“Canton”)
• Cartier
source market for outbound travel after the United States, China is set to become the number one outbound market within
region of China. A few years ago,
five
years.
• Louis Vuitton
• Chanel
• Hermes
• Wuliangye
• BMW
• Gucci
• Moutai • Mercedes-Benz
THE N TH DEGREE 139
AJ: Dennis, I cannot even begin to imagine what
you
must
have
gone
through? DG: Well, during my annual medical they discovered a tumor in my prostate and said the cancer had moved into my lymph nodes. They recommended a radical prostatectomy; however, I wanted
a
second
opinion.
I
flew
to
John
Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore where I underwent a CT scan that demonstrated the disease had not actually spread and that less radical surgery was required. I was extremely relieved, as you would imagine, as the difference in side effects between the two operations, in terms of a man’s future continence and potency, is huge, and the majority of men are unaware of these frightening side effects. AJ: Prostate cancer is one of the most common diseases causing death in men,
isn’t
it? DG: Well, let me put it this way, I was just one of 40,000 men who develop prostate cancer each year, which is why we advise all our male clients over the age of 50 to have an annual PSA test for the disease. But one should not ignore high blood pressure and cholesterol as they are also among the most common ailments our clients have. AJ: So tell me, how did you come up with the idea of establishing a new business through
this
terrible
ordeal?
health is the real wealth! 140 THE N TH DEGREE
A conversation with Dennis Guise A couple of years ago, Dennis Guise heard the words that no man ever wants to hear, prostate cancer! This was a diagnosis he hadn’t expected, a diagnosis that quite literally made his life spin and thus the roller coaster ride began. Opinions, second opinions, decisions, treatments and at the end of all the ordeals, there came success, he beat the cancer! This was a ride he wished he never embarked on, but a ride that also ended with a brilliant business idea. Those who know Dennis are well aware, he is an entrepreneur to the bone and extracting great ideas out of the very worst situations is just one of his specialties! Andie Jones recently met up with Dennis
for
a
conversation
to
find
out
just
what
makes
this
man
tick?
DG:
In
the
turmoil
of
fighting
a
life
threatening disease you would think a new business would be the last thought to come to mind. Firstly, I was determined
to
fight
the
disease
and
win. I am a determined man and when I put my mind to something I have to achieve
it,
so
I
won
the
fight
against
cancer. I was lucky to be able to have that scan, which put things into the right perspective and instead of disabling me for the rest of my life; I actually had the chance to make the right choices in terms of my treatment. I then thought to myself, this is brilliant! You see people just don’t pay enough attention to their health, so I’ll make it my business to
THE N TH DEGREE 141
not only bring their attention to their health, I’ll offer solutions as well. I like to use the analogy that if you went out and bought a Porsche or a Ferrari or any super car for that matter, would you
people
are
our
first
priority
and
if
we
provider of CT health checks, who have manage not only to save lives, but also checked over 65,000 people in the last help our clients save money, then that’s ten years. In 2011, Lifescan became part of Spire Healthcare who are a leading what we call a job well done! Did you know that a huge percentage of provider of private healthcare and have
38 private hospitals throughout the UK. As a result, Healthscanlife, with its partner’s
broking
firm
HSL
Assured,
can
taking
them
in
the
first
place?
I
have
now offer a unique underwriting review had numerous clients who, based on a service throughout the UK. regularly serviced, tuned and running at medical alone, have shown to have high This association will open up many exciting its optimum performance levels. So why cholesterol and as result are prescribed opportunities for both Healthscanlife and don’t
we
do
that
with
our
bodies?
This
statins, when in most cases a CT Scan has Lifescan and in addition, HSL Assured made me think that I could to go one step shown that they may not require them. can use the detailed results from a further, so I also looked into how I could This includes my wife Caroline, who was Lifescan CT health check to potentially provide the proper insurance premiums on statins. She had bad side effects, reduce their clients Life and Critical according to their state of health. It is memory loss, sore bones and tiredness. Insurance premiums. so important to get a true and accurate Following her scan she was advised by To put their service into perspective, diagnosis and make sure our clients get her Cardiologist to cease taking them as according to Cancer Research UK: a fair deal on their insurance! she had a zero calcium score. She was •
Lung
cancer
causes
up
to
35,000
then given standard terms for her life deaths per annum Malcolm Burne, aged 67, a company insurance. More importantly her side director and Healthscanlife’s client. •
Colon
cancer
is
responsible
for
16,000
effects have completely disappeared. deaths each year and up to 90% of Healthscanlife arranged a medical and The following is from an article published colon cancer deaths can be avoided if fasting bloods along with an exercise in The Telegraph on the 22nd March, 2013, detected earlier. ECG. I was taking out insurance which further highlights Dennis’s point. to help mitigate my IHT Liability. •
At
least
40%
of
cardiovascular
deaths
Healthscanlife’s unique in house “HIGH-DOSE STATINS TAKEN BY can be avoided or deferred for at least underwriting was impressive. Their MILLIONS OF PEOPLE ARE PUTTING 10 – 15 years. partner brokerage HSL Assured were THEM AT RISK OF POTENTIALLY FATAL AJ:
So
how
does
Healthscanlife
work?
able to obtain cover at Standard Rates. KIDNEY PROBLEMS, RESEARCHERS What
is
the
process? I decided some months later to have ARE WARNING” DG: Healthscanlife provide a truly unique a CT scan of my heart and colon with Dennis goes on to say, “We must point out service. The process starts with an initial, Lifescan in Guildford. After which I was that for those who do have a genuinely thorough medical which can take place shocked to be advised that my calcium high risk of heart disease, statins are at the client’s home to lessen anxiety score was extremely high. This proves extremely useful in protecting against and encourage a more accurate blood that even though I had been through plaque rupture, premature myocardial pressure reading. This information is the above medical, fasting bloods infarction and strokes.” If you wish to go then used by Healthscanlife’s in-house and exercise ECG, it was the CT heart through the process of a medical and underwriters to match their clients’ needs scan that highlighted this potentially a scan or if you have either high blood with the right insurance policies, quickly. life threatening heart disease. pressure or high cholesterol and believe This part of the process is passed over Healthscanlife immediately referred you are paying high premiums, or are to an associated insurance brokerage, me to their consultant cardiologist Dr about to apply for new insurance, you HSL Assured. The premiums quoted at Duncan Dymond, and under his care, should contact Healthscanlife this stage are far more in tune with the I am now taking statins which should AJ: So tell me Dennis, how is the industry client’s state of health than have been halt the progress of any further plaque welcoming
you? achievable in the past. With their policy build-up. Thank goodness I had my IHT DG: We have worked really hard to in place, a client will then be offered a Insurance in place, as I would now establish ourselves, especially within CT health check with Lifescan, using the be uninsurable. the insurance market, but today advanced ‘open’ scanning technology, AJ: So you really did take on quite a Healthscanlife Limited is proud to which can highlight any health problems challenge?
announce that we are working with the client might have early enough to DG: I certainly did, but in my business, Lifescan, the UK’s leading independent prevent the advancement of potentially just
drive
it
into
the
ground?
Would
you
neglect to service it, drive it as hard as you could and then expect it to stop on the
button
when
you
hit
the
brakes?
Of
course you wouldn’t. You would have it
142 THE N TH DEGREE
the quoted seven million people currently on statins [a class of drug used to lower cholesterol levels] shouldn’t even be
critical illnesses. Alternatively, a clean bill of health can be taken back to the policy provider to reduce the premium. Craig Griffin Aged 46 – Property Developer Healthscanlife’s home medical and fasting bloods, picked up I had a cholesterol reading of 7.5. Their in-house underwriter along with their consultant cardiologist suggested I have a CT Heart scan with Lifescan in Guildford. This showed a calcium score of zero; therefore highlighting I
had
no
calcification
in
my
arteries,
despite my higher than normal cholesterol result. This was great news to me, and Healthscanlife’s partner brokerage HSL Assured, advised my insurers and the loading they had applied to my premium was removed.
AJ: Dennis, you have to admit this is truly amazing and I believe congratulations should
be
in
order? DG: I really feel this is a major step forward in giving people a clean bill of health or the chance to make a diagnosis early, most illnesses if discovered early can be treated successfully. Also reviewing peoples insurance to ensure the cover properly protects their
All they have to do is call us on 0203 440 3830 or email: enquiries@healthscanlife.com quoting the Nth Degree Club. Finally, I would really like to thank you for this opportunity and remind people that health is the real wealth!
interests whilst being the best value for money possible. It’s hard to believe that in today’s market when our premiums are continually rising, someone is actually working hard to lower them. And to prove how dedicated we to what we do, Healthscanlife is proud to offer readers a complimentary full home medical with blood test, subject to certain conditions.
THE N TH DEGREE 143
“my coffee, my way” just won’t cut it.
a nation of coffee connoisseurs There’s no denying that as a nation we are more sophisticated in all aspects of food and drink than ever before. Coffee is no exception. We caught up with Raymond Santamaria from VIAGGI – NESTLÉ’S super premium coffee option coffee option Out-of-Home - who let us in on the multi-million pound coffee industry that continues to take the nation by storm.
Do you know your lungo from your latte and your cortado from your cappuccino? The chances are you do. Terminology that was unfamiliar to the masses a decade ago has today become common parlance by a nation bitten by the coffee bug. Once upon a time, having a coffee machine in your kitchen was a rare thing, an envy-inducing object like a sports car in the driveway. It marked you out
as
liking
life’s
finer
things.
Today, it would seem that more and more of us are waking up and smelling the coffee. Coffee: our new cup of tea While once upon a time, “a nice cup of tea” was the preserve of the British, our tastes have evolved. Dramatically. Today, a staggering 70 million cups of coffee are drunk per day, making coffee the fastest growing retail category last year with sales of roast and ground coffee in Britain’s largest supermarkets rising by 13.1 per cent to £220.2 million in 2012 compared to the previous year. At the same time, the premium single-cup pod market (which includes machines like Nespresso), grew by an astonishing 143 per cent.
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And it’s the same story in the Out-of -Home market. What appears to be a saturated market continues to grow, with the opening of an estimated 600 coffee outlets in 2011, bringing the total to an impressive 15,000. When you consider that there were only 750 branded coffee shops in the UK in 1999, it’s staggering to think that today, the coffee shop market is valued at a fullycaffeinated £5.8 billion. What
these
figures
tell
us
is
that
despite
the fact that times are tough and many consumers continue to shun “big ticket” items, we’re simply not prepared to compromise on life’s little luxuries. Whether it’s a pre-work cappuccino or a post-dinner espresso, nowadays, your caffeinated kick is far more likely to come not from a jar or even a bag of beans but from a premium machine serving speciality coffees. Coffee connoisseurs: sophisticated tastes and high expectations According to Santamaria, what this means for restaurateurs, hoteliers and anyone involved in the foodservice industry, is that customer expectations have never been higher. “We eat out in
fine
dining
establishments,
drink
fine
wines
and
expect
our
after-dinner
coffee to be on a par with the quality we demand in all other areas of our life. Parallels are perhaps best drawn with the ever-increasing sophistication of the UK wine drinker. The terminology of coffee, like wine, has now entered everyday language. The origin, the blend and characteristics of the coffee bean through to the extraction techniques and equipment used are all elements that today’s consumers are clued up about. “As consumer tastes have become more sophisticated and café culture has taken hold, we are naturally more discerning and our expectations are higher. Gone are the days when consumers were happy to settle for a choice of black or white, one lump or two. Regular coffee drinkers now expect a barista-standard drink wherever they are; whether that be a hotel, restaurant or even their local pub. Our raison d’etre at VIAGGI is quite simply to help these operators deliver on their consumer promise.” The reality is that hotels, restaurants and other establishments serving coffee are having to raise their game. Consumers vote with their feet and anything short of
Santamaria continued: “At VIAGGI, we appreciate the link between gastronomy and drink; be that wine, water or coffee. To this end, we work closely with bestin-class sommeliers, who provide expertise on food and drink matching and explore the sensory aspect of our grand-cru coffee blend. What this does is allow us to consult with operators in a far more meaningful way – talking their language and demonstrating that we fully understand and are able to meet the demands of their customers. By being able to provide information on details like the provenance of the blend, the tasting notes of the beverage and advise on global coffee trends, we provide reassurance that VIAGGI is an ideal solution capable of delivering at the super premium end of the market.” A new generation of machines Just as Nespresso has revolutionised the “at home” market, so too is a new generation of automated machines changing the face of the out of home market. These machines are designed to deliver espresso-based drinks that would rival those produced by a barista. The majority of beverage industry insiders would agree that these systems consistently produce an extraction that
compares favourably to manually-made espresso, whether from roasted beans, liquid coffee or specially formulated freeze-dried coffee. The crème de la crème of coffee machines VIAGGI by NESTLÉ PROFESSIONAL SUPER PREMIUM BEVERAGES is a machine that has been specifically
developed
with
respected
Italian coffee machine manufacturer, LA CIMBALI, to deliver an extensive range of “Grand Cru” coffees, quickly and at the touch of a button. Heralded as the pioneer of next generation machines, VIAGGI takes the grind out of the process, producing more than 40 (yes you heard right – more than 40!) authentic, baristastyle premium quality hot or over-ice espresso-based specialties.
best of both worlds. What does the future hold?... One thing is certain – our love affair with coffee shows no signs of fading. In London, they say that you’re never more than two metres from a mobile phone shop or a latte… My prediction is that before long, wherever we are in the country, we’ll never be more than a few metres away from a latte, americano, macchiato, ristretto, mocha, lungo, corto...
And before you dismiss the idea of coffee from an automated machine, consider the fact that machines like VIAGGI
have
been
developed
with
finedining
restaurants,
five
star
hotels
and
high-end gastro pubs in mind. For operators who have high staff turnover or where coffee isn’t their core business, a low maintenance automatic machine solution that requires minimum skill and training AND offers the consumer a range of speciality, premium coffees offers the
Top tips for brewing the perfect Top tips for brewing the perfect premium coffee at home: premium coffee at home: •
Select
a
single
origin
coffee
or
combining Robusta beans to provide body and structure and Arabica
beans
to
add
finesse
Feel like you need a PhD just to order a coffee and ever thought about what’s actually in your daily grind?... No matter how complicated or obscure the variety may seem, nearly all coffees can trace their lineage back to the simple espresso. Here are the nation’s favourites: Espresso – one shot of espresso Americano – one shot of espresso, hot water Cappuccino – one shot of espresso, steamed milk, milk foam Lungo – one shot of espresso with 2 x volume of water Ristretto – half a shot of espresso
Macchiato – one shot of espresso, drop of milk Latte – two shots of espresso, steamed milk, milk foam Mochaccino – one shot, chocolate, steamed milk, milk foam Each one of the drinks varieties above can be produced by VIAGGI
•
Make
sure
your
coffee
making
equipment is clean of debris for a fresh taste •
Always
use
fresh
water
–
never
pre-boiled. Filter water works best •
Never
pour
boiling
water
on
coffee
as this burns the coffee. Just below 90 degrees Celsius is perfect •
Brew
to
personal
taste •
Serve
in
a
slightly
heated
cup •
If
adding
milk,
heat
to
approx
70 degrees Celsius
THE N TH DEGREE 145
steinway lyngdorf
Founded
by
Peter
Lyngdorf
and
based
in
Denmark,
Steinway
Lyngdorf is the result of visionary ambition and uncompromising commitment. A dream shared by Steinway & Sons, makers of the world’s
finest
pianos
for
over
150
years,
and
Peter
Lyngdorf,
one
of
the foremost audio innovators of our time. These two icons in the field
of
sound
share
a
common
mission
–
to
make
us
listen
with
all
of our senses, not just with our ears.
“At Steinway & Sons, we value the reputation for excellence and quality that we have earned through handcrafting the
world’s
finest
pianos
for
more
than
150
years.
Peter
Lyngdorf’s uncompromising commitment to excellence in sound reproduction has resulted in a truly remarkable range
DISCOVER THE EXTRAORDINARY
THE ULTIMATE SENSORY EXPERIENCE
Designed and manufactured in Denmark, Steinway Lyngdorf products are for connoisseurs, for whom audio
Marking a new era in home entertainment, our family of speakers and audio components offers the ultimate
experiences are paths to the soul of the artist – the subtlest nuances and richest textures are reproduced in their purest forms through unprecedented and proprietary innovations in the technology of sound.
sensory
fulfilment.
Providing
the
prefect
balance of sonic performance, ease of use, and stunning design, every aspect and every component, from concept to creation, has been developed to work in in total harmony.
Handcrafted artisanship has long been a hallmark of Steinway & Sons, and
Recognizing the importance of personal style,
bespoke
finishes
are
available
benefiting
from
a
proud
tradition
of
innovation in acoustical and product design, Steinway Lyngdorf draws from
to complement any home décor. Upon request, our series of speaker systems can be customized with a wide
its own wellspring of gifted engineers and master craftsmen. Our passion for
perfection
is
reflected
in
the
uncompromising look and performance of every Steinway Lyngdorf product. No cost or effort is spared. Every
selection of high- gloss colours with either gold or chrome accents. Model D and C systems can in addition to this be personalized with a selection of stunning
wood
finishes.
detail,
every
component
exemplifies
an
inspired commitment to excellence.
of sound systems, making for a perfect collaboration
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in every respect.”
POTTERS HOME-DIGITAL
Thomas Kurrer, President, Steinway & Sons
www.steinwaylyngdorf.com
Tenterden, Kent 01580
762864
THE N TH DEGREE 149
Food brand unearthed® was established back in 2008 with the intention of sharing food discoveries, using authentic ingredients and
the
expertise
of
great
regional
producers. Since then we have gone from strength to strength, constantly developing our range, looking for new products and finding
fresh,
exciting
ingredients
for
our customers to cook with in their own homes. Products that we have made widely
available
in
the
UK
for
the
first
time include Calabrian ‘nujda, Goose Rillettes and Smoked Chorizo. In all we have launched over 100 continental foods from all across Europe. We are stocked in Waitrose and available online through Ocado and Abel & Cole. You
can
also
find
our
products
in
a
limited number of selected independent outlets around the country. This year we have something rather exciting
planned.
Imagine
the
world’s
longest tasting menu – 193 courses. Yes
that’s
right,
one
dish
for
every
country*
in
the
world!
We’re
going
to
attempt a Guinness World Record and you
can
be
part
of
it.
We’re
looking
for recipes across the globe to make up our ambitious meal, which will be unveiled at a public event on 14th June. Follow the progress of the project on facebook.com/discoverunearthed or @foodsunearthed (Twitter #193), or visit our website discoverunearthed.com. For every pack of unearthed® we sell, 1p is donated to Action Against Hunger UK. To date we have donated nearly £200,000 towards food security and crisis relief projects around the world. We have a particular connection with a long term nutrition project in troubled Mali. If you are involved in a business that is looking for a way to productively engage with charity and you would like to
discuss
our
experience
then
please
do get in touch.
*
we’ve
based
our
list
on
the
193
members
within
the
United
Nations
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seriously Just in case you thought we were going a bit soft
with all the other reviews, here’s a car to restore your faith in our petrol head credentials: The Mercedes SLS AMG Black Words Chris Leppard
The Mercedes Black Series models are the most extreme cars the company produces, and this is its most hardcore road car ever. The SLS AMG Coupé Black Series features the same 6.3-litre V8 as the standard car (I use the term quite loosely), but power is up by 59bhp to 622bhp, while the rev limit has been increased from 7,200rpm to 8,000rpm. Mercedes has also shed 70kg from the SLS’s kerb
weight.
A
new
carbon
fibre
torque
tube
is 13.3kg lighter than the aluminium unit in the regular car, while a lithium-ion starter battery saves 8kg and the bonnet, bucket seats and various chassis parts are now made
of
carbon
fibre-reinforced
plastic.
The
exhaust too is now entirely titanium to save weight (something that you only used to see on true exotica or World Rally Cars). The attention to weight saving is near fanatical and should convince you of the seriousness of Mercedes’ engineers to produce a serious performance car. The result of all these changes is a higher power to-weight ratio than on any previous AMG Black Series car, and the SLS covers 0-62mph in 3.6 seconds. Top speed is 1mph down on the regular car, at 196mph, as tweaks to the aerodynamics have increased drag. In addition there have a host of changes under the skin. The seven-speed twin-
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clutch gearbox sits 10mm lower in the car to improve the centre to gravity and has faster shift times, while the mechanical limited-slip differential makes way for an electronically controlled one. The race-tuned suspension features adjustable damping (hard or even harder), as well as coil-over springs that can be adjusted depending on which circuit you’re heading for and that is where you will need to be to really stretch this car. All of this is backed up with a styling make over
influenced
by
the
GT3
racer,
including
wider
wings,
a
carbon-fibre-reinforced
front
splitter and a diffuser at the rear. For the full race-track look you can specify the “AMG Aerodynamics package”, which includes a giant
rear
wing,
also
made
of
carbon-fibre.
Inside the car gets bucket seats and plenty of cool Alcantara trim, while the satnav screen has been removed to save weight (I did mention the fanatical weight saving?). Here at The NTH Degree, the SLS is one of our favourite cars. It mixes monstrous performance with a stunning body to produce a visually stunning car. The additions of the Black series have not harmed it in any way and will only serve to cement the SLS’s place in automotive history. If the lottery win ever came, you just know you would want one of these on your driveway.
monstrous performance with a stunning body
THE N TH DEGREE 155
Seven years after its creation, Luxor has become an indispensable must-have at all the world’s great events. Luxor is always part of events such as the Cannes Film Festival or the Monaco GrandPrix, to the delight of the invited. Produced in France in very limited quantities, Luxor is very exclusive. Luxor brings the spirit of
magnificent
receptions
in
Versailles
where
refinement
and
the
magic of gold are mingled with the exhilaration of Champagne. Luxor offers you the luxury of reinventing celebration.
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Champagne that is used to make
by a hint of spice is obtained during
Luxor is of the highest quality. The juice
flows
by
gravity
and
without
pumping to obtain a wine that is totally natural and the most balanced as
aging in oak barrels.
possible. After aging on laths for 2 to 3 years, the base wine receives liquor that contains
fine
particles
of
pure
24
carat
gold, producing Luxor.
unusual wine, making each tasting a golden experience
Taste buds will be tantalised by the ballet of golden specks, as well s the fine
bubbles
and
lightness
of
this
The history of Luxor started with a man’s fascination for gold. An audiovisual expert, Jean-Christophe Rousseau discovered the golden leaf in 1995. It was a revelation. From creations of golden art monuments to haute cuisine, Jean-Christophe never ceases to feed his passion for this precious metal. Over time, he acquired great expertise in the uses of gold. He even purchased “La Maison de la Dorure” in 2002 and “La Maison Charrier” in 2003. At the same time, to thank his trustworthy clients, this brilliant entrepreneur decided to offer them champagne. But not just any champagne...Jean-Christophe made his trademark
by
including
fine
flakes
of
edible gold in the drink, which was never seen before! Marrying the most prestigious metal to the most famous drink, the idea was an immediate success: Everyone wants to taste the famous “Gold Champagne.” In 2005, Jean-Christophe created Luxor; the most prestigious and rare drink in the world. The great vineyards of Pinot Noir are at the heart of this elegant wine assemblage. The Chardonnay adds elegance and freshness while the Pinot Meunier
ensures
a
smooth
finish.
Absolutely unique, its golden colour, tinged with copper glints and glitters that
enhance
fine
and
delicate
aromas
of red fruits and bush peach. Fresh and full bodied, Luxor Brut has a taste with hints of dry and ripe fruit, supplemented
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Kuda Huraa is the place where you will create an unforgettable Maldives adventure on this idyllic private island, fringed with white sand and lapped by crystal clear water Quaint palm-thatched bungalows dip their feet into a turquoise sea and sunrise, sunshine and sunset paint the endless sky.
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Rainbow reefs
teem
with
brilliant
fish
and a trillion stars will light your dinner. Every view enfolds the ocean. Every minute is evocatively pure Four Seasons. Having
flown
directly
from
Dubai
on
a
comfortably
short
four
or
so
hour
flight,
we were greeted at the Kuda Huraa jetty by traditional Maldivian music and a most welcoming management team. There are a couple of different types of accommodation available on Kuda Huraa. Beach bungalows have direct access to a pristine white sandy beach, they are very spacious and have their own infinity
plunge
pool
with
a
secluded
deck
and a gazebo. Lush foliage, colourful bougainvilleas and mature palms create a garden setting, giving each bungalow maximum privacy. The living area features comfortable sofas, an armoire, satellite television, full stereo system, CD/DVD
player,
writing
desk
and
private
bar. The bathroom, which includes a deep soak tub and a separate shower, leads to a private outdoor walled garden featuring an exotic Maldivian open-air shower. The traditional water villas, are neatly set along an extended jetty. Each have fresh clean interiors, an entrance lobby and a spacious bedroom with unbroken views of the sea. The dressing room leads to an enlarged bath overlooking the lagoon and an outdoor courtyard with a Maldivian open air shower. Every water villa has a private sundeck with steps that lead straight to the turquoise lagoon and a sea level fresh water shower, for showering after a dip in the surrounding warm sea. Additional amenities are the same as the beach villas. There is also an expansive two-bedroom Royal
Beach
Villa,
which
epitomises
gracious beachside comfort for families and guests requiring extra space. A lavish outdoor space features a private wooden deck with large plunge pool and gazebo, surrounded by a lush garden and all privately contained within a walled tropical oasis, furnished with a shaded daybed. The Royal Suite is located right next to the white sandy beach and has a well-appointed living area with comfortable sofas, a satellite
a wine cellar that boasts an exclusive selection
of
the
finest
handpicked
wines.
On the other hand, Baraabaru, focuses on
fine
Indian
cuisine,
offering
a
diverse
selection of fresh local seafood, rice biriyanis
(a
flavourful
Indian
specialty
served in a clay pot) and traditional Indian specialties. An elegant dinner at Baraabaru is a truly memorable affair. You can dine in the restaurant’s brightly coloured interiors, on the spectacular
television,
full
stereo
system,
CD/ DVD
player
and
most
importantly,
an
espresso machine. Four Seasons Kuda Huraa, offers various dining options including multi cultural
deck above the waters or in an outside private dining gazebo. The open kitchen features an open tandoori bar, where guests can watch as the chefs prepare
fine
Indian
cuisine.
The
food
is
restaurants and an In-Bungalow service. A brand new state-of-the-art restaurant, Café Huraa, has two dining pavilions overlooking the main pool and the lagoon. Breakfast is an extensive buffet of Asian and Continental specialities, exotic fruits, freshly baked breads and pastries. Lunch is an a la carte menu of salads, sandwiches, catch of the day, noodles and rice, whereas dinner embraces Asian fare with an emphasis on regional specialities. There are also popular theme nights offering tantalising specialities. The restaurant also has
treatments are truly amazing and if it
and the team on the beach are second to
complemented by a wine list chosen to suit the tropics, with an emphasis on light wines and champagnes.
were possible to get any more relaxed than you already are, then this is the place to do it. The island has great scuba diving and the
dive
centre
is
PADI
certified.
There
none when it comes to safety and having fun.
Big
game
fishing
and
sunset
fishing
trips
can
also
easily
be
arranged.
For
the
fitness
freaks, there is a really great air conditioned gym with a resident personal trainer fresh
Additionally, the Reef Club, Huraa Barbecue, Sunset Lounge and the Poolside Terrace & Bar all serve great food and drinks. Located on its own private island just a minute away from the Resort by dhoni ( a native Maldivian wooden boat), the
are two dive trips per day, morning and afternoon with limitless options for great
towels and complimentary drinks. Kuda Huraa really does have it all.
local dive sites. On the beach you have kayaking, snorkelling,
windsurfing,
catamaran
sailing, water-skiing, parasailing and banana-boating. There are jet skis for hire
Great food, sumptuous accommodations, exhilarating beach sports and diving, but the best thing of all, are the happy staff who all go the extra mile to make your stay your most unforgettable Maldivian memory.
Four Seasons Maldives at Kuda Huraa North Malé Atoll Republic of Maldives Tel.(960) 66 44 888 www.fourseasons.com/maldiveskh/
Island Spa is a tranquil oasis dedicated to physical and mental peace, harmony and balance. Specialising in innovative treatments from India, Thailand, Indonesia and the Maldives, each of the team of highly-skilled therapists follows ancient regional traditions using only the
finest
natural
ingredients.
There
are
seven over-water thatched treatment pavilions; each is designed for couples’ spa experiences and they have glass floors
directly
below
your
massage
bed
so
you
can
watch
the
fish
swim
by
as
you are enjoying your treatment. The
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TH DEGREE player 00 THE Nthe 163
WITHOUT COMPROMISE. WITHOUT COMPARE. From the unprecedented collaboration of Steinway & Sons and audio legend Peter Lyngdorf comes a revolutionary achievement in sound. Introducing the Steinway & Sons Model D Music System, perfection that first began as a dream. Architecturally stunning, acoustically precise, no effort was spared to create a sound system so extraordinary that the very act of listening is redefined. The extraordinary awaits you. Call to schedule a personal preview or a private in-home performance.
POTTERS HOME-DIGITAL TENTERDEN, KENT | 01580 762864 | WWW.STEINWAYLYNGDORF.COM