Northside December 2018

////// NORTHSIDE DECEMBER 2018

Northside THE QUALITY MAGAZINE FOR LEEDS, HARROGATE & SURROUNDING AREAS

Festive fun Temple Newsam’s Christmas makeover

The Ride of your life The Venice Simplon-OrientExpress is the ultimate luxury

Time to celebrate Leeds Grand Theatre’s 140th birthday

Seasonal quiz Win tickets to Blue Planet II

Christmas unwrapped Gift ideas galore www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

DECEMBER 2018

www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

#LeedsChristmas Weekends throughout December

Sat 1 - Sun 23 Dec, 11am - 4pm

leeds.gov.uk/templenewsam f TempleNewsamEstate l @TempleNewsam @TempleNewsam

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 3

CONTENTS

28

St Moritz is a welcome stop off on any Swiss adventure

14 The Diary

Our monthly round-up of the region’s arts and entertainment scene

28 Swiss adventure

Hollie Leighton, from Spa Travel, hits the rails in Switzerland

30 Alpine luxury

Snow lovers book their France ski holidays with Sky Olympic year after year – it’s easy to see why

32 The Christmas Experience Step back in time and experience a real Edwardian Christmas at Lotherton Hall

36 Fashion

46 Beauty

With Christmas and new year coming up, there are plenty of excuses to up your beauty game. Plus, we speak to founder of Neom Organics, Nicola Elliott

Leeds Grand Theatre celebrated its major milestone with a series of stunning events

72 What’s going on, Leeds?

58 Golden Age of Travel

Maveer Singh-Pangu steps into Christmas

62 Christmas Quiz

Guests flocked to Elland Road for Aagrah’s 36th Annual Charity Business Dinner, which celebrated the best in Yorkshire business

A trip onboard the Venice Simplon-OrientExpress is the ultimate luxury

Challenge yourself with our annual festive brainteaser and you could win tickets to Blue Planet II – Live in Concert

74 Toasting the ‘Elite’ 84 Home & Garden

64 Christmas gift guide

Deck your halls with this year’s glittering contemporary Christmas decorations

68 Let it snow

Get your home ready for the festive season with the help of these local retailers

Get inspiration from the independents this Christmas

Whether you’re dressing up for a Christmas party or leaving a surprise in someone’s stocking, festive fashion has the wow factor

70 140 years young

Yearning for those Christmas drinks of yesteryear? Chris Wilson takes a festive trip down Memory Lane

102 Home Essentials

FRONT COVER...

Christmas at Temple Newsam. Find out what else is happening this festive season at Leeds City Council properties on page 32

For all advertising enquiries please call 0114 250 6300 or contact: Amanda Roy: amanda.roy@rmcmedia.co.uk (Tel: 07843 633184) MANAGING EDITOR Chris Wilson EXECUTIVE EDITOR Richard Abbey FEATURE WRITER Rhiana Hughes DIGITAL REPORTER Ashley Birch DESIGN Dan Wray, Steve Levers, Charles Bradshaw OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jillion Wood PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Amanda Roy DIGITAL COMMERCIAL MANAGER Melanie Jackson DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Chris Clayton ACCOUNTS Paul Barrett Published by: RMC MEDIA, 6 Broadfield Court, Broadfield Business Park, Sheffield, S8 0XF Tel: 0114 250 6300. Email: northside@rmcmedia.co.uk. Website: www.northsidemagazine.co.uk Not connected with any other company or group. Printed by Buxton Press, Buxton, Derbyshire. www.buxtonpress.com The publisher takes no responsibility whatsoever for the safe keeping or return of unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or other material. Any submitted material should be accompanied by an SAE. All material is the copyright of the RMC Media and is not to be reproduced without permission. The placing of an order for the insertion of an advertisement in this publication shall amount to an acceptance of our terms and conditions, copies of which are available on request.

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The Diary THEATRE MUSIC COMEDY EVENTS EXHIBITIONS FILM FURTHER AFIELD…

Underwater journey DISCOVER THE WONDERS OF THE OCEANS IN AN ARENA TOUR WITH A DIFFERENCE – BLUE PLANET II LOOKS LIKE BEING NEXT YEAR’S BIG THING. AND ‘JAMMY’ YORKSHIRE LASS ANITA RANI CAN’T WAIT TO BE A PART OF IT, WRITES RICHARD ABBEY.

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INTERVIEW

ake a deep breath and get ready to submerge yourself in Blue Planet II – Live in Concert, the tour which is set to be the big arena event of 2019.

As well as winning numerous awards, including a BAFTA, Blue Planet II touched so many people when it aired on BBC One at the start of the year, highlighting not only the majesty but the plight facing our oceans now and in the coming years. The arena tour is a live adaptation of a television story that began some 20 years ago when a team of wildlife filmmakers from the BBC’s natural history unit set out to make a series on the world’s oceans, the breadth and scale of which had never been seen before.

During the four-year filming of Blue Planet II, the teams embarked on 125 expeditions, travelled to 39 countries, filmed on all continents and in every ocean. Logistically, some of these expeditions could be compared to a trip in space – such was the effort. Anyone who saw the series, could see that it was worth it.

Blue Planet II – Live in Concert will feature the best bits of the series presented on a giant state-of-the-art 4K Ultra HD LED screen. The stunning visuals will be complemented by the series’ moving score, which was composed by Hans Zimmer, Jacob Shea and David Fleming, and will be performed by the 80-piece Prague Philharmonic Orchestra. Tying the whole together will be recently-announced host, Anita Rani, who will be taking on an Attenborough-esque role.

To say the Bradford-born TV personality was excited at the prospect is something of an understatement.

“I’m the jammiest person on Earth at the minute,” she enthused. “It’s one of those moments when, without thinking, you just say ‘yes’. To be part of the Blue Planet II brand, to be deemed good enough to be able to do this, just personally, it’s a big, big moment in my life.”

Anita is well known and well liked for

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her various TV roles, which includes The Edit, Cricket AM, The One Show, Countryfile and Strictly Come Dancing.

And she’s (not so) secretly delighted that this tour allows her to live out one of her own personal fantasies.

“Come on, who doesn’t want to be Beyonce? A small part of me would love to be Beyonce but I need to accept that’s probably not going to happen but I’m still going to be able to do an arena tour with Blue Planet II. I’m very excited.”

So what can audiences expect?

“The whole thing is going to be a very powerful, overwhelming experience for anyone who comes along to see the show,” explains Anita. “Even though it’s huge, with thousands of people in the auditorium, it should have a real intimacy about it, we’re all going on a deep sea journey together.

“The key thing about it is it’s family entertainment. We want it to be crossgenerational, we want you to have the

“Can you imagine being able to come and see something like this at the age of eight? It’ll be one of those moments in your life you’ll never forget.”

experience that you have at home watching it with the whole family and for people to walk out there talking about it.

“But it’s more than just a show they’ll talk about, it’ll be a feeling they’ll have forever. Can you imagine being able to come and see something like this at the age of eight? It’ll be one of those moments in your life you’ll never forget.”

There’s no surprise that Anita, like many of us, was a huge fan of the series. “You’re watching it and you cannot believe what you’re seeing,” she says. “There was one scene with a squid that could change its colour and can camouflage itself. That’s real, that’s actually happening, that’s not CGI, it’s not Pixar-animated… it really puts us as a human race in perspective. It’s very humbling.”

In the short time I spent speaking with Anita it was clear that she is hugely passionate about this next career step, she’s bubbly, bright and still retains plenty of that Yorkshire sense of humour.

When I raised the point about spending 13 weeks on tour she was positively ecstatic: “I’ll be on that bus raising hell!

Watch out Nottingham, watch out Leeds, there’ll be TVs flying out of hotel room windows… I can’t wait!”

Of course you don’t need to be from Yorkshire to recognise her tongue was planted firmly in cheek during that exchange but you get the sense she’s fun to be around and will always have a cup of Yorkshire tea at hand – she carries a box of teabags with her whenever she’s filming.

Aside from preparing for the Blue Planet II tour, Anita has launched her own podcast – It’s Anita Rani – which centres around extraordinary interviews with inspiring people. There’s a couple more TV projects lined up too but in her own words “I can’t talk about them until I can talk about them”.

It seems the star that is Anita Rani is very much in the ascendancy.

You can see Blue Planet II – Live in Concert at Leeds’ first direct arena on 19 March 2019. See www.firstdirectarena.com for further details.

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 15

THE DIARY

CHRISTMAS York Minster: Advent and Christmas 2018 Various dates Deangate, York, YO1 7HH https://yorkminster.org Sankta Lucia: Festival of Light 7 December An atmospheric, candlelit procession and carol service for all the family based on the traditional Swedish Lucia celebration. In Sweden, Lucia is one of the most significant traditions in the calendar – a powerful symbol and celebration of light and an integral part of the Advent season.

THEATRE Northern Ballet: The Nutcracker 4-16 December Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ www.leedsgrandtheatre.com Share in Clara’s adventures as she is swept away by her Nutcracker Prince into an enchanting winter wonderland.

Don’t miss dazzling dancing snowflakes, the famous Sugar Plum Fairy and the notorious Mouse King in the ultimate festive entertainment.

Performed to Tchaikovsky’s enduring score, played live by Northern Ballet Sinfonia, The Nutcracker awakens childlike imagination in us all.

Shrek: The Musical 18 December – 6 January 2019 Leeds Grand Theatre, 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NZ www.leedsgrandtheatre.com Based on the story and characters from the Oscar®-winning DreamWorks Animation film, this hilarious and spectacular production turns the world of fairytales upside down in an all-singing, all-dancing, must-see musical comedy.

Join Shrek, (Steffan Harri) and his loyal steed Donkey as they set off on a quest to rescue the beautiful Princess Fiona (Laura Main) from her tower, guarded by a fire breathing love-sick dragon.

Dancing Queen 15 December Harrogate Theatre, 6 Oxford Street, 16 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

Harrogate, HG1 1QF www.harrogatetheatre.co.uk Dancing Queen The Concert is an action packed party show featuring over two hours of the greatest hits from Abba, Grease and the seventies. This is the ultimate nostalgia night that guarantees to get you dancing in the aisles!

A Christmas Carol Until 19 January 2019 Leeds Playhouse, Playhouse Square, Leeds, LS2 7UP https://leedsplayhouse.org.uk It’s Christmas Eve in Victorian Leeds, but the cold-hearted Ebenezer Scrooge hasn’t an ounce of festive cheer. As the cold night draws in, four ghostly spirits take Ebenezer on a magical journey through his past, his present and his future, hoping to show him the error of his ways. With Christmas spirit, fun, music and magic at its heart, this timeless Charles Dickens tale is brought vividly to life.

Cinderella 30 November – 13 January 2019 Leeds City Varieties, Swan Street, Leeds, LS1 6LW www.cityvarieties.co.uk It’s panto season! Oh no it’s not, I hear you say, but trust me, it is and they don’t come much bigger than Cinderella. This rock ‘n’ roll panto is a timeless rags to riches tale that’s fun for the whole family. You’ll be wowed by this fastpaced panto mixing traditional elements of audience participation and corny gags with a panoply of classic chart-topping pop and soul hits – but keep your wits about you or you might just get rocked by the legendary Boulder Battle!

Christmas Carol Concerts 13 & 14 December York Minster’s popular Christmas Carol Concerts offer the perfect start to the festive season. The concerts feature the York Minster Choir performing a mixture of classical and popular Christmas music, with the chance for the audience to join in with Christmas carols.

Experience Christmas Trail 14 December Discover more about the Christmas story by exploring six activity stops hidden around the Minster. Follow a trail with items to look at, touch, smell and discuss at each stop.

Christmas at The Piece Hall Various dates Blackledge, Halifax, HX1 1RE www.thepiecehall.co.uk The Piece Hall’s sumptuous Spiegeltent returns with a mix of comedy, cabaret, music and arts. Here’s just a highlight of what’s coming up: Christmas Eve Carol Service 24 December, 12pm Join Halifax Minster Choir as they perform carols around the Christmas tree before the annual procession for the Christingle service.

Hacienda DJ Graeme Park 29 December, 7pm Relive the iconic days of Manchester’s Hacienda as original DJ, and proud patron of The Piece Hall Trust, Graeme Park takes the audience on a journey through the birth and evolution of Factory Records with an exclusive house DJ set in the Spiegeltent.

New Year’s Eve Courtyard Party 31 December, 7.30pm-late The party will feature live music and DJs, with special performances and surprises throughout the evening.

THE DIARY

MUSIC Mariah Carey

CHRISTMAS The Spirit of Christmas – Leeds Male Voice Choir 15 December, 7.45pm Leeds Cathedral www.leedsmalevoicechoir.co.uk Leeds Male Voice Choir and special guests perform a range of carols, festive songs and yuletide favourites in Leeds Cathedral for the whole family.

The perfect start to Christmas! Kids go free with an accompanying adult.

10 December / First Direct Arena, Arena Way, Leeds, LS2 8BY www.firstdirectarena.com Christmas has indeed come early, as global superstar, vocal phenomenon and international icon Mariah Carey brings the hugely successful and critically acclaimed All I Want For Christmas Is You Tour to the first direct arena this December. A breathtaking performance dovetailing her most celebrated and adored festive anthems and classic catalogue, All I Want For Christmas Is You Tour is the perfect gift for Christmas.

Leeds Orchestral Season Leeds Town Hall / Box Office: 0113 376 0318 / leedstownhall.co.uk There are various events taking place at Leeds Town Hall as part of the orchestral season. Highlights include Orchestra of Opera North (1 December), Handel’s Messiah (8 December), The Snowman and The Nutcracker (16 December) and The Unthanks Sing Emily Brontë (21 December). See the website for full details.

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Russell Howard 27 September 2019 First Direct Arena, Arena Way, Leeds, LS2 8BY www.firstdirectarena.com Following the record-breaking success of his 2017 tour Round The World, Russell Howard returns with his biggest globe-spanning stand-up tour to date. It’s time for Respite.

FILM Aquaman 14 December Arthur Curry is the reluctant ruler of Atlantis and King of the Seven Seas, who finds himself caught between a surface world constantly ravaging the sea and Atlanteans looking to lash out in revolt, but committed to protecting the entire globe.

Mary Poppins Returns 21 December Emily Blunt takes on Julie Andrews’ role as she returns to 1930s London to see Michael and Jane, who are now grown up and have children of their own. Dick Van Dyk is also in there too.

The ‘Down The Road Wherever’ tour follows the album of the same name. The album features 14 unhurriedly elegant new songs inspired by a wide range of subjects, from his early days in Dire Straits to a stray football fan lost in a strange town.

Rita Ora 28 May 2019 Having recently made chart history becoming the most successful UK female artist of all time on the UK official singles chart, Rita Ora has announced a 2019 world tour.

Michael Bublé 3 June 2019 Michael Bublé is without a doubt one of the best entertainers in the world. Oozing charisma, velvety vocals and smooth moves, he connects with his audience like no other performer.

Westlife 10 & 11 June 2019 Shane, Nicky, Mark and Kian will be performing a raft of new songs as well as greatest hits.

A-Ha 2 November 2019 To mark the 35th anniversary of the release of Take On Me, the popular Norwegians will be heading out on tour.

FURTHER AFIELD… Def Leppard 14 December FlyDSA Arena, Broughton Lane, Sheffield, S9 2DF www.flydsaarena.co.uk One of Sheffield’s biggest exports of the 1980s returns ‘home’ for what will surely be a night to remember. Their seminal 1987 Hysteria album is rightly seen as a landmark recording in the history of rock music. It was the album that saw Def Leppard conquer the world with global hits such as Animal, Pour Some Sugar On Me, Hysteria, Armageddon It, Love Bites, Woman and Rocket. The band will deliver Hysteria in full alongside other songs from their incredible catalogue.

Nile Rogers and Chic 15 December Manchester Arena, Victoria Station, Hunts Bank, Manchester, M3 1AR www.manchester-arena.com As the co-founder of CHIC, Nile Rodgers pioneered a new musical language with chart-topping hits like ‘Le Freak’ and ‘Everybody Dance’, even sparking the advent of hip-hop with ‘Good Times’. His work with CHIC and his production credits with artists like David Bowie, Diana Ross and Madonna has helped sell over 500 million albums and 75 million singles worldwide, while his innovative, trendsetting collaborations with Daft Punk, Avicii, Sigala, Disclosure, and Sam Smith have kept him in the vanguard of contemporary music.

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 17

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Shoppers can enjoy extra shopping hours, with the indoor market open until 7pm on Thursday 20 December and on Sunday 23 December from 10am to 4pm.

We’ve FREE performances of Santa and the

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Goblin Market at 11am and 2pm on 15, 22, 23 and 24 December; a musical Christmas adventure by Alive and Kicking. There’s Christmas films, carol singing, live bands, a Christmas Record and Book fair, as well as a Christmas Vintage Market.

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20 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

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TRAVEL

Swiss adventure HOLLIE LEIGHTON, FROM SPA TRAVEL, HITS THE RAILS IN SWITZERLAND.

The Bernina Express train Image courtesy Alessandro Lucca / 123RF.com

have just returned from an adventure in the Alps seeing some of the spectacular scenery and sights of Switzerland. I was lucky enough to be hosted by one of our preferred tour operator partners, Classic Collection Holidays, on a three-night break, spending one night in famous Zermatt and two nights in the beautiful area of St Moritz.

To get to our first stop of Zermatt and its famous Matterhorn mountain we flew into Zurich airport with Swiss Airlines direct from Manchester. There is a train station at Zurich Airport so connections and travel from the airport are easy, frequent and most of the time run like clockwork!

Three hours and 30 minutes from Zurich airport via train and you arrive into beautiful Zermatt. It is a car free village so transport consists of electric buses, bikes and horse-drawn carriages. It is a perfect location to walk/hike with its famous peaks and the mountain train and cable cars give amazing views of the Matterhorn and surrounding areas. The

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28 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

old town is very pretty and full of flowers in front of the high street shops, designer boutiques and cafes.

In Zermatt centre is the Gornergrat station where we joined the train up the mountains to the famous Gornergrat viewing area, which is at an altitude of over 3,000 metres. It is a 360-degree panoramic viewing area where you can enjoy sites of the Eiger, Monch and Jungfrau mountains as well as over 200 other peaks. On a clear day you may be able to see the Mont Blanc Massif in France or the German Black Forest. We were lucky with sunshine (if not very cold with ice and snow thickly layered on the grounds) and spent an hour admiring the beautiful scenery.

Once back down in Zermatt we had a short walk across the road to the main station and moved onto Brig where we then boarded the famous Glacier Express train for the remaining seven hours of our journey to St Moritz. The Glacier Express train is the slowest express train in the world and travels through some of the most scenic parts of the country. You

have panoramic windows where you can enjoy the views and the steady journey up and down the mountains. You can have the option of dinner on board the train, which we did. If you are a fan of trains, spectacular views (or both!) then this is definitely for you.

Arriving late evening into St Moritz we then moved onto our hotel for the remaining two nights. Set in the Albua Alps Region and at 1,800 metres, St Moritz and the surrounding villages have been the centre of Swiss Alps tourism for years attracting royal families and celebrities. The resort is full of designer boutiques and excellent restaurants. The area is renowned for its winter sports but in the summer also offers great summer activities like hiking, cycling and also windsurfing/water sports on the area’s famous lakes.

We did a full day excursion from St Moritz, taking the train first of all to the Bernina Diavolezza base station where you then join the Diavolezza cable car and travel to 3,000 metres to the Diavolezza peak viewing platform. Here

TRAVEL

you are rewarded with the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. Then once back down to base station we moved onto another train which took us over the Swiss border to the beautiful town of Tirano in Italy. Due to time restrictions we had a whistlestop 45-minute stay in Tirano but were treated to a gorgeous authentic Italian lunch at the Al Portici restaurant – a definite recommendation from me if you ever find yourself in Tirano.

Leaving Tirano we joined the sister train of the Glacier Express – the Bernina Express Train – to take us from Tirano back to St Moritz. A beautiful 2 hour 30 minute journey was full of breath-taking views past waterfalls, ravines, mountain streams and over bridges and viaducts through the Engadin Valley. I must say out of all the train journeys we did the scenery on the Bernina Express journey topped them all – it really was just so pretty, you couldn’t put your camera down in case you missed the next beautiful sight!

After one last night back in St Moritz it was time to come home. A seamless service yet again on the Swiss trains and

Hollie hits the heights

St. Moritz Image courtesy takepicsforfun / 123RF.com

an easy two-hour flight from Zurich back to Manchester completed my Swiss adventure.

Having never been to Switzerland or its surrounding areas before I can see why it is so popular year round with summer walkers/hikers/scenery lovers and also through the winter for adventurers and skiers alike. It is a year round destination that has something for everyone – but if you are a lover of trains and beautiful scenery then this is definitely the place for you! I can’t wait to get my walking shoes back on and get

there in the summer myself.

Top tip – the fly luggage service used throughout the country is excellent and If you are going on excursions or a long journey for a day your big suitcase can be transported from one hotel to another for you so you don’t have to worry about moving that on and off a train – it can all be done for you.

If you wish to talk further about a trip then please feel free to contact me on 01937 845678 or email me at hollie@spa-travel.com and I will be more than happy to assist.

An aerial view of the Zermatt Valley and Matterhorn Peak at dawn

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 29

TRAVEL

Alpine luxury SNOW LOVERS BOOK THEIR FRANCE SKI HOLIDAYS WITH SKY OLYMPIC YEAR AFTER YEAR – IT’S EASY TO SEE WHY.

ki Olympic is an award-winning independent tour operator that provides fantastic catered ski and snowboard holidays to chalets in France, including the resorts: Vallandry Les Arcs, and La Plagne.

Their ski holidays in France are fully catered with delicious food and drink prepared by their very own highly trained staff. Their excellent ski chalets and chalet hotels, combined with their service and attention to detail, have

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An example of a Ski Olympic chalet

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earned them a tremendously loyal customer base over the past 30 years.

Many customers book their France ski holidays with Ski Olympic year after year.

The business was born out of one Doncaster’s family love for skiing – after enjoying many holidays on the slopes themselves they decided to buy their first chalet. Thirty years later and Ski Olympic has a number of chalets and chalet hotels in five of the top high altitude resorts in the French Alps.

Despite the business’ success, Ski Olympic has kept its family business ethos, and prides itself on high quality customer service. As well as offering chalets, the firm has chartered their own flights, hired chefs who have worked in restaurants around the world, and employ only the best chalet staff. Each member of the team is known by name, so bosses can ensure every guest has a great holiday experience.

With such high quality customer service, 70 per cent of guests return to the Alps for another holiday with the company. Which is little surprise, considering the wonderful packages the company offers.

With a Ski Olympic holiday, guests are looked after from the initial enquiry right through to their flight landing back on UK soil. All UK office staff have visited every single resort, and know the properties inside out, allowing them to help guests chose the perfect location for their holiday. Guests are assigned their own sales advisor who looks after their booking until they arrive at their resort, when the warm, welcoming chalet staff take over.

Ski Olympic are not an agent or reseller; all of their catered ski chalets are operated directly by them, with their

very own friendly and reliable staff to take care of you. Many of their catered French chalets have been built especially for Ski Olympic, and they have decades of experience operating in all of their resorts. On a ski holiday in France with Olympic, you really are in good hands.

All of their incredible ski and snowboard holiday prices include direct British Airways flights from Gatwick Airport to Grenoble Airport and airport transfers to your chosen French ski resort.

They also offer a Jet2 flight from Manchester option for a small supplement. They can also “tailor make” a bespoke package for you, flying from an alternative airport of your choice, subject to availability.

If you do not require a flight, they can offer accommodation-only holidays at a discounted rate – contact them to find out more.

At the Ski Olympic headquarters in the UK, their friendly and knowledgeable office staff are always available to answer any questions you may have, so please do not hesitate to call or drop a line at info@skiolympic.com They have visited all of the French ski resorts and catered chalets and can help craft your perfect snow holiday.

You can also follow them on facebook.com/skiolympic and twitter.com/skiolympic for fantastic special offers and exclusive competitions.

Ski Olympic 3 Christchurch Terrace, Thorne Road, Doncaster, DN21 2HU Tel: 01302 328820 www.skiolympic.com

TRAVEL

“Seventy per cent of guests return to the Alps for another holiday with the company. Which is little surprise, considering the wonderful packages they offer.�

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 31

CHRISTMAS

The Christmas Experience RHIANA HUGHES STEPS BACK IN TIME AND EXPERIENCES A REAL EDWARDIAN CHRISTMAS AT LOTHERTON HALL.

t’s that time of year again. The lights are up, the trees have been trimmed, lists have been sent to Old St. Nick, and Lotherton Hall and Estate has once again turned into a winter wonderland, putting on The Christmas Experience for a third year.

One of eight museums and art galleries maintained by Leeds City Council, Lotherton Hall is full of history that adds an extra bit of charm to the Christmas festivities it plays host to.

An Edwardian country home boasting extensive grounds, Lotherton Hall was bought by the Gascoigne family in 1825, and while the property may seem palatial to us today, it was one of the smaller homes the Gascoignes owned.

Landowners who went on to make

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their money by farming and coal mining, the Gascoignes placed Lotherton Hall in public hands in order to ensure that the beauty of the property would continue to be appreciated.

The Christmas Experience provides an opportunity to explore not only the grounds of Lotherton, but the beauty of the home itself.

Entering the house through the Inner Hall, the main reception where the Gascoigne family would welcome visitors and hold social events, you’ll be stunned by the building’s grand ceilings, delicate portraits, artefacts and family heirlooms.

You’ll feel like you’ve gone back in time, experiencing a real Edwardian Christmas. Each room in the house is unique, and as you pass through the

centuries old property, you’re sure to notice a few modern and quirky additions to the traditional Christmas decorations.

The house is also home to The Christmas Experience’s Edwardian Selfie Studio. Get yourself dressed up as a festive Edwardian before taking a seasonal selfie.

While the house is warm and cosy, as all homes should be at Christmastime, The Christmas Experience has plenty to offer outside of the house too. So make sure you wrap up warm – and you might want to bring a pair of wellies just in case too (we might feel like we’ve gone back in time, but British weather transcends time).

The 12 Days of Christmas Woodland

CHRISTMAS

Walk is a great way to explore Lotherton’s gardens. We all think we know how the famous Christmas song goes, but can you remember what’s coming up next without the music playing in the background?

Head out after the sun has set, and you’ll be guided through the trees by twinkling lights, and if you listen carefully you might hear the pipers and the French hens beckoning you down the path.

Each of the 12 stops on the walk is home to an interactive display, and they’re each designed to enhance the experience (and perhaps bring out the competitive nature) of those who visit.

Walk through the five gold rings, see if you can spot the partridge in the pear tree, and see if you can get the drummers drumming in sync.

Once you’ve reached the end of the woodland walk, you’ll find yourself at the entrance to a whole new world. A secret fairy hideaway lies down a hidden path, and there’s a list of rules for the little ones to follow to make sure the fairies aren’t frightened.

‘In sparkling spirit the fairies of Lotherton Hall quietly live within this curious dell.

When children come to visit here wishes may be granted by such flittering friends. As you walk through the magical dell, don’t be too loud because you will scare the fairies out of their handmade homes where they may be sleeping in their precious petal palaces.’

The Enchanted Fairy Dell is the perfect place to get the kids on their best behaviour before paying a visit to Santa.

Santa’s North Pole and Grotto at Lotherton Hall seems to hold the magic of Christmas within its doors. Walking in to a wall of white made up of snowcovered branches, you almost feel like you’ve stepped into Narnia.

Helpful elves show you the way through to their workshop, where children can take part in an activity and write a postcard to Santa before meeting him and receiving a special gift. Adults too will struggle to not get into the Christmas spirit, one of the elves even said “I still get excited to see Santa, and I work with him every day!”

You might find it difficult to drag your

children away from Father Christmas, but the promise of a hot chocolate in the Elf Village might help.

The Christmas Experience’s Elf Village is the perfect place to grab a hot drink or a festive snack. Positioned under a twinkling canopy, you can wrap up warm in a blanket while listening to Christmas songs we all know and love.

Whatever your traditions are around Christmastime, there’s plenty at The Christmas Experience to entertain the whole family. Whether you’d like to spend hours wondering about the house, learning about the history of the Gascoigne family, or you’ve found yourself craving mulled wine and mince pies, Lotherton Hall could be a good place to start your Christmas celebrations.

The Christmas Experience at Lotherton Hall is running until 23 December.

Lotherton Hall Off Collier lane, Aberford Leeds, LS25 3EB Visit www.thechristmasexperience.co.uk for tickets and further information.

Five gold rings...

Find your way through the Woodland Walk Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 33

PROMOTION

Clear from the outset THE IMPORTANCE OF UPDATING A WILL AFTER MAJOR LIFE EVENTS – BY IRWIN MITCHELL PRIVATE WEALTH’S JULIA BURNS. recent claim on behalf of infant children for maintenance from their deceased father’s estate has highlighted the importance of keeping a Will up to date.

Mr Ubbi died unexpectedly in February 2015 when he was in the process of getting a divorce from his wife. He had one disabled child and a stepdaughter.

He had been living simultaneously with Bianca Corrado, and had fathered two children who at the time of his death were aged three and six months.

Mr Ubbi was described in court as living a ‘double life’, running two households to a high standard of living.

His estate was valued at £3.4million.

Ms Corrado originally sought a lump sum of £850,000 from Mr Ubbi’s estate under the Inheritance Act on behalf of her illegitimate children. They had not been provided for in his Will, which was dated August 2010. At one point during the process the claim had been as high as £2.3million.

The court had to adjudicate on three significant areas of dispute between the parties: housing needs, childcare and private schooling. It eventually ruled that

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private education could not be included, and awarded Ms Corrado £386,000.

The judge found there was “no expectation that the children would have been educated privately” and did “not accept that the provision of private education is a reasonable financial provision for the children”.

Julia Burns, an Associate in the Will, Trust and Estate Disputes team at Irwin Mitchell Private Wealth, said thousands of families could face the same issue.

Divorce and remarriage had become increasingly common in society, yet Wills were rarely updated after big life events.

“It can be incredibly costly in the long run to let your Will languish with outdated information,” Julia said. “In this case, the deceased led a double life and stayed married to his former wife while living with his mistress at the time of his death. It’s vital to consider the consequences of staying married to someone when the relationship has broken down irretrievably, particularly if you then have a second family.

“This case also goes to show that whilst updating a Will may seem costly and time-consuming from the outset, the fallout of leaving heirs and second

families unaccounted for is much worse.

Will disputes can have a devastating effect on families and can massively exacerbate existing tensions.”

In evidence, Mr Ubbi’s widow Susan said he had told her he did not intend to change the provisions in his Will, and his estate would be left to her so that she could provide for their son. She also said the couple had reconciled before his death and he had prevented her from divorcing him. But the judge did not accept that evidence.

Julia said: “It is not commonly known that getting remarried can invalidate a previous Will, leaving potential heirs with no option other than to pursue a claim.

We strongly advise that a person’s Will is updated after every major life event, be that divorce, remarriage or death. That way the inevitable stress, cost and fallout from a Will dispute can be avoided.”

Irwin Mitchell Private Wealth offer unrivalled guidance and advice to help you plan appropriately and make the right decisions at the right time.

Contact Julia on 0113 218 6413 julia.burns@irwinmitchell.com www.irwinmitchellprivatewealth.com

Visit us in store store or it free shop online w with delivery over err ££20

BIKES, ACCESSORIES, CLOTHING & GIFTS FOR ALL THE FAMILY 140 Woodland L ane | LEEDS | L S7 4QG 5–7 Union Road | Byker | NE WCAS TLE | NE6 1EH

EDINBURGHBICYCLE.COM EDINBURGHBICYCLE.COM

FASHION

Angel’s Face Stella tutu in blush pink with metallic gold stars (right). Perfect for the party season. Available from Milk & Honey, 14-16 Cheltenham Parade, Harrogate, North Yorkshire, HG1 1DB. Tel: 01423 564615. www.milkandhoneykids.co.uk

Stocking thrillers Forever Unique emerald green glitter maxi gown available from Georgie’s, 18 West Park, Harrogate, HG1 1BJ. Tel: 01423 560092

36 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

WHETHER YOU’RE DRESSING UP FOR A CHRISTMAS PARTY OR LEAVING A SURPRISE IN SOMEONE’S STOCKING, FESTIVE FASHION HAS THE WOW FACTOR. BY RHIANA HUGHES.

Dear Frances ‘Vera’ silver leather boots from Young British Designers. £440. Available from India Mahon, 12 Montpellier Street, Harrogate, HG1 2TQ. indiamahon.com

FASHION

Velvet midi dress. £160. Available from Jigsaw Leeds, Harrogate, Ilkley and York. www.jigsaw-online.com

Sheila Fleet Daisy earrings. £88.

Available from Phillips of Ilkley, 23 Brook Street, Ilkley, LS29 8AA. Tel: 01943 609567. phillipsofilkley.co.uk

Moose Knuckles Stirling Fur Parka. £839.99. Available from Accent Clothing, 11-13 Queens Arcade, Off Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6LF. Tel: 0113 234 6767. www.accentclothing.com

Marc Cain midnight pin-stripe suit and pale blue pin-stripe shirt. Available from Helen Sykes, 217-219 Stanningley Road, Leeds, LS12 3PL. Tel: 0113 231 0610

Ronald Joyce Veni Infantino AW18 Collection available from Ragdoll of Pudsey, 76 Galloway Lane, Pudsey, Leeds, LS28 8LE. Tel: 01274 660880. www.ragdollofpudsey.co.uk

Unisa Jati black suede zip fastening ankle boots. £139.90. Available from Charles Clinkard’s Leeds and Ilkley stores. Tel: 01943 889452/ 0113 3971 871. www.charlesclinkard.co.uk Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 37

PROMOTION

Uniquely you NEW TO HARROGATE’S MONTEPELLIER QUARTER IS LUXURY JEWELLERY DESIGNER, INDIA MAHON. WE FIND OUT A BIT MORE ABOUT HER BRAND. India, why choose Harrogate for your second jewellery boutique?

Yorkshire has always been home for me.

Harrogate is a very special place, there is a great vibe in the Montpellier Quarter, I love the fact that I am surrounded by a vibrant and friendly community of passionately independent boutiques.

Harrogate has a reputation for style, sophistication and design, it’s a fabulous shopping destination, we are lucky to have a wealth of super-talented entrepreneurial indies.

Can you describe the interior of the new Harrogate boutique?

It’s a luxurious contemporary feminine space; wall-mounted gilded vintage cabinets display the jewellery. The 55 sq m boutique has an open, relaxed, warm ambience with plenty of light and mirrors. Customers are encouraged to browse and try the jewellery at their leisure over a glass of fizz.

What inspires your jewellery design?

I draw my inspiration from gemstones and shapes from my collection of vintage textiles. I am acutely aware the jewellery must fit my clients’ busy lifestyles. My 38 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

design signature is a fusion of east meets west, vintage opulence and contemporary simplicity using vibrant coloured, authentic gemstones and pearls set in precious metals.

When did you first fall in love with jewellery?

I’ve loved jewellery from early childhood. I am told from the age of three I would adorn myself with my grandmother’s pearls, wander the Yorkshire Dales with my grandfather, loaded with jewellery and at least one handbag!

How did your brand start?

I lost someone very special. It pushed me to start my own business, it was always going to be jewellery. I LOVE my job!

What are your core brand values?

My jewellery is hand-made here in my workshop from ethically sourced materials. The customer experience is as important to me as the quality and integrity of design and production.

How do you source your materials and ensure your jewellery is ethical?

I am very loyal to a small pool of trusted suppliers, from whom I source my gemstones, pearls, diamonds and Fairtrade gold.

How is your jewellery made?

My jewellery is made by hand at the bench. I personally choose every one of the gemstones for my jewellery, so I can be sure of the design integrity and its ethical provenance. I freely admit that I am obsessed with detail.

What’s the best part of your job?

One of the greatest pleasures in my job is making custom jewellery for clients.

Jewellery is so personal, it’s about creating memories, which is why selecting the perfect piece is incredibly important. I take great delight in getting to know my clients, their individual tastes and desires, then helping them arrive at the right decision whether it’s a new piece or re-modelling old heirloom jewellery.

India Mahon 12 Montpellier Street, Harrogate, HG1 2TQ Tel: 01423 521161 indiamahon.com

F RE E

JE WELLERY CLE ANING VO U CH E R *

F RE E

RE -MODELLING VO UCH E R *

Party time!

THESE PIECES, AVAILABLE FROM MORGAN CLARE, WILL GET YOU THROUGH THE FESTIVE PERIOD IN STYLE. ere at Morgan Clare we love the build up to Christmas and all the fashion to go with it! Some of the trends this season fit perfectly with the party season; metallic, sequins and velvet were all over the catwalks and now making their way into our wardrobes.

H

Clothing & Gifts For Children From 0 - 14 Years

Christmas party: Whether you are attending a work Christmas party or just a social gathering with friends this is the perfect excuse to get dressed up.

Anything goes at this time of year; you can never be over dressed!

Dress - Rebecca Taylor, Powder Puff shoes - Aquazzura Top - Les Coyotes De Paris. Velvet culottes Rebecca Taylor, crystal pumps Sophia Webster, star bag - Stella McCartney, goops Toolally

Christmas Day: We think a dress is the perfect item for Christmas Day, just make sure you have room for turkey and champagne!

This Rebecca Taylor dress is the perfect amount of elegance and comfort with a little bit of festive green on your feet with the powder puff Aquazzura shoe.

Boxing Day: Cosy chic is the way we like to dress for Boxing Day. Whether you are going out for a country walk and pub lunch or a family gathering, cashmere is the perfect attire. We have teamed this leopard cashmere knit with boyfriend jeans and the ultimate Acne shearling.

Shearling - Acne Studios, Leopard sweater - 360, Jeans - Frame Denim, Hiking boots- Isabel Marant, Hat - Acne Studios

Dress - Alice New Years Eve: This is one of the most fun fashion nights of the year. McCALL, shoes I would always take advantage of Aquazzura, this and pull out your biggest pouch - Stella show-stopper, a full length dress McCartney like this Alice McCALL was just made to wear for a big NYE party. Add a statement earring and metallic Stella McCartney clutch and you are ready to celebrate!

Morgan Clare Harrogate 3 Montpellier Gardens, Harrogate, HG1 2TF Tel: 01423 565709 40 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

Morgan Clare Ilkley 36 The Grove, Ilkley, LS29 9EE Tel: 01943 817444

Children’s Play Area • Parking Baby Changing & Feeding Area Mayoral • Levi • Pepe • Wild and Gorgeous Emile et rose • Absorba • Ralph Lauren • Angel’s Face Jottum • Jellycat • Le Toy Van And a wide range of toys, gifts and accessories

CHILDREN’S CLOTHING & GIFTS

Tel: 01423 564615 14-16 CHELTENHAM PARADE, HARROGATE, HG1 1DB

www.milkandhoneykids.co.uk

Diamonds… more than words can say

Watchmakers, Manufacturing & Fine Jewellers 23 Brook Street, Ilkley Telephone Ilkley (01943) 609567 www.phillipsofilkley.co.uk | phillipsofilkley@outlook.com

Watchmakers, a Manufacturing & Fine Jewellers 23 Brook Street, Ilkleyy Teelephone Ilkley (0194 43) 609567 www ww w.phillipsofilkleyy.co.uk | phillipsofilkley@outlook.com phillip

Ladies Fashion & Accessories Stockists of OUI • FOREVER UNIQUE • JUNGE • CAMELOT VILAGALLO • PASSIONI • OCHRE CASHMERE BRODIE CASHMERE • MAC DREAM JEANS and many more plus jewellery and accessories

Quote Northside and receive

10% OFF Georgie’s 18 West Park Harrogate HG1 1BJ Open Monday – Saturday • 10am – 5.30pm

of Pudsey

Happy Christmas!

Stunning Evening Wear and Accessories Mother of the Bride & Groom Specialists

LOYALTY SCHEME #bagsofloyalty big discounts in store!

Little Alligators is sure to delight this Christmas with beautiful toys, games, crafts and other unusual gifts for children of all ages.

Visit us at 45 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate HG2 0NL or online www.littlealligators.com

Fabulous Day Wear & Occasion Wear with beautiful accessories for the perfect look 76 Galloway Lane, Pudsey, Leeds LS28 8LE Tel: 01274 660880 www.ragdollofpudsey.co.uk

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 45

BEAUTY

Sisley Soir d’Orient Wild Edition Eau de Parfum £230. www.harrods.com A unique edition of Sisley’s Soir d’Orient Eau de Parfum. Spicy notes of black pepper are complemented by heady sandalwood, with Egyptian geranium injecting a touch of floral intensity.

Neom Organics Limited Edition Christmas Wish Home Collection £47. www.neomorganics.com Give the gift of calm with the Neom Christmas Wish fragrance. A comforting blend of 13 pure essential oils including mandarin, cinnamon and tonka bean to help you relax and unwind, whilst surrounding your home with the soothing, traditional scent of Christmas.

Wow factor WITH CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR COMING UP, THERE ARE PLENTY OF EXCUSES TO UP YOUR BEAUTY GAME, WRITES RHIANA HUGHES.

Not Another Bill Ultimate Grooming Gift Set £85. www.notanotherbill.com This super set for the man in your life includes a camo canvas wash bag, a boar hair shave brush, a matte black Mach 3 compatible razor and soothing aloe vera shave soap as well as a beautiful manicure set contained in a leather case.

MAC Shiny Pretty Things Goody Bag – Red Lips £26.10. www.johnlewis.com Get your lips looking party-ready with MAC’s Blazing Yule lipstick, Pom Date Lipglass and Cherry lip pencil – perfect for the festive season and for a pop of colour throughout the year.

Burt’s Bees Mistletoe Kiss Gift Set £9.99. www.burtsbees.co.uk Brighten lips with a spot of colour and complement natural beauty with this kissable gift set. These easy to wear shades are enriched with Shea Butter, Vitamin E and fruit oils to moisturise and naturally soften lips.

The Body Shop Vegan Countdown to New Year £40. www.thebodyshop.com Keep the treats flowing with The Body Shop’s Countdown to New Year, packed with eight vegan beauty surprises to get you ready for New Year’s Eve and that allimportant new year detox.

The Night Before Christmas Gift Box £12.95. lush.com Don’t forget to treat yourself this festive season. Get ready for the big day by relaxing with Lush’s limited edition Shoot for the Stars and Golden Wonder bath bombs.

FatFace Pamper Hamper £29.50. www.fatface.com Everything you need to relax and unwind after a long day. Set includes bubble bath, bath salts, body lotion, face cloth and a scented candle.

46 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

Cath Kidston Beauty Advent Calendar £40. www.daisypark.co.uk Countdown the days to Christmas with the Cath Kidston Beauty advent calendar. Featuring signature scents and Christmas edition fragrances filled with pine needles, red berries, candied sugar and spice.

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Exquisite Swimwear Exclusive Lingerie Seductive Nightwear OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK Book an appointment with the Bra Doctor for your free personal fitting

20% OFF ALL UNDERWEAR AND GIFT WRAP You can contact Lace by email at sales@lacebakewell.co.uk and www.lacebakewell.co.uk

Lace of Bakewell, Orme Court Tel: 01629 814933

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 47

PROMOTION

Winter wonders DON’T FORGET TO LAVISH SOME ATTENTION ON YOURSELF THIS CHRISTMAS... ith Christmas just around the corner, it’s the perfect time for a pamper. Many of us tend to make the festive period more about others than looking after ourselves, meaning we often head to the shops and purchase at-home pamper products instead of treating ourselves to a trip to the salon.

Why should you settle for a DIY job when Zoe at Beauty by Zoe is on hand to get you photo-ready and feeling your best this winter? Zoe offers a long list of services, all of which she provides from the comfort of her immaculate purposebuilt salon.

Beauty by Zoe offers a level of comfort and privacy that you won’t find in many other salons. Hidden away off the beaten track, Beauty by Zoe has a real spa-like feel to it, and you’re sure to leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated, no matter what treatment you’ve received.

From manicures and pedicures, to spray tans, eyebrow and lash tinting, massage, threading and waxing to laser

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hair removal, red vein treatment, facial photo rejuvenation and microdermabrasion, Zoe can do it all.

With over 25 years of experience in the industry, Zoe really does know her stuff. And a real perfectionist too, Zoe even recently went back to study at the Yorkshire College of Beauty Therapy to get her Level 4 qualification in laser hair removal and skin rejuvenation – something that not many who offer these treatments actually make the effort to obtain.

Zoe uses only the best products and brands, including Crystal Clear Skincare (which is only available in certified salons) and she pays close attention to detail in everything that she does, so you know you’ll leave with a smile on your face and a big boost in confidence.

At this time of year, most of us tend to think about our nails, lashes and our brows, but what we seem to put on the backburner until the summer months is looking after our skin. The harsh winter weather can be just as damaging as the

sun, so there’s no time like the present to pop in and see Zoe. If you suffer from red veins, fine lines, acne, rosacea, uneven pigmentation or age spots that you want gone before the cameras start flashing at family parties, the three-in-one IPL facial treatment or Crystal Clear microdermabrasion could be perfect for you – and Zoe’s got plenty of packages on offer this winter.

Beauty by Zoe is also offering 30% OFF all laser hair removal courses until the end of January, so it won’t just be your face feeling super soft.

There are no walk-in appointments available at Beauty by Zoe, so to make sure you’re feeling your best this festive season, give her a call or text now.

Beauty by Zoe The Fairway, Leeds, LS17 Tel: 07791 619784 Visit her on Facebook at @BeautyByZoeLeeds Follow on Instagram at @beautybyzoe_leeds

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FREE TREATMENT WHEN YOU SPEND OVER £50 Choose from: Eyebrow Tidy, Lip Threading, Eyebrow or Lash Tint

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With over 25 yrs experience Zoe offers a wide range of Beauty and Aesthetic laser treatments in comfort and privacy using well known leading brands

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BEAUTY

Limited Edition Precious Moment of Calm. Create a precious moment of calm with this relaxing collection of Neom Scent to De-Stress products. RRP £30

Rest and recuperate FOUNDER OF NEOM ORGANICS, NICOLA ELLIOTT, TALKS TO RHIANA HUGHES ABOUT MAKING CHRISTMAS STRESS-FREE. ith countless parties, dinners and family gettogethers in our diaries each December, it can be difficult to take the time out we really need for ourselves. While it really can be the most wonderful time of the year if it’s done right, it can be easy to let the stresses of Christmastime take over.

We spoke to Nicola Elliott, founder of Neom Organics about how her business can help us look after our own wellbeing at the time of year historically about giving to others.

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You were an editor at Glamour magazine for seven years – what led to such a big career change?

I loved my job but I was working so hard and started getting really stressed out. Because of that I started on a bit of a health journey and became really interested in how aromatherapy could help me.

I remember thinking at the time ‘everyone seems to suffer from poor sleep, stress, low mood or lack of energy’, they’re the four pillars which, when I look around my friends and family, they all seem to be falling short on one of those and so the idea of helping with those key wellbeing areas was born.

Everything we do is 100 per cent natural and the power of the products when we use the purest possible essential oils is pretty mega. It happened quite organically, excuse the pun.

How have your business/customers changed since you started in 2005?

Well of course it’s grown a lot. I think when we started out we probably were more the domain of people who were really interested and understanding of natural and people 50 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

who really prioritised wellbeing. Now, everyone’s a lot more educated on those two subjects and that’s great.

Where is the best place to start if you’re starting to look after your own wellbeing?

I would always recommend going into one of the stores. The girls and guys who work in the stores are called Neomologists and are trained in wellbeing 360. They do a little scent discovery test and find out what your wellbeing need is and they’ll create a bespoke routine that will work for your lifestyle.

How important is it that people make time for themselves around Christmas?

Hugely. All I want is a really calm Christmas period, with loads of lie-ins and just to feel happy at home. Ultimately, you’ve got to reframe Christmas because that’s what it’s meant to be about, not running around and buying loads of stuff.

It’s really important to use your time wisely. Say no to a lot of stuff and just make it a lovely time that leaves you rested and recuperated rather than frazzled.

How would you sum up Neom Organics in a few words?

Scents to make you feel good.

There’s plenty in-store and online at Neom Organics to make you feel good this Christmas.Visit them at Neom Organics,Victoria Gate, 26 Eastgate, Leeds, LS2 7JL.Tel: 0113 246 9664. www.neomorganics.com

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The gift of an anti-ageing treatment from Elements MediSpa he run up to Christmas often whizzes by in a blur of festive shopping sprees and fabulous parties. By the time the big day arrives, you’re exhausted. So, if you or someone you know loves to take care of themselves and their appearance, then why not ask for, or give a gift of an anti-ageing treatment from Elements MediSpa. Elements MediSpa is offering a range of cosmetic and medical skin treatments as part of their 12 Deals of Christmas, including wrinkle injections, lip enhancement, dermal fillers, PDO thread lift, the vampire facelift, skin treatments, skin tightening, The Skinny Pen and much more.

Are you unsure of what to expect under the tree this Christmas? –

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trepidation at the thought of another bottle of perfume or jewellery? – or perhaps you’re struggling to choose a present for someone else? Then why not escape the hustle and bustle of the festive season and leave your skin glowing, your mind renewed, and your self-confidence enhanced with the 12 Deals of Christmas, on offer from 1-12 December. Simply contact (or advise your loved ones to contact) the clinic to purchase any of the amazing deals on offer, safe in the knowledge that the lucky recipient (or yourself) has three months to use this wonderful gift.

Alternatively, you could opt for one of the many other medical skin treatments offered at the clinic or choose from a range of state-of-the-art skincare

products. There’s something for everyone, with prices to suit a variety of budgets.

It is very important to visit an experienced professional who will design a programme and prescribe the appropriate products for you – such professionals are available at Elements MediSpa and with so much to offer, you’ll need no excuse to take some time to indulge this Christmas.

All offers can be bought in person, over the phone or online at www.elements.org.uk between 1-12 December, and must be used by 12 March 2019.

Elements MediSpa 81 Thorne Road, Doncaster, DN1 2ES Tel: 01302 34 34 32 www.elements.org.uk Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 55

A wedding at beautiful Bawtry Hall combines style, attention to detail and sheer romance.

Envisage the scene: an enchanting Grade II listed building boasting a white Tuscan front porch, encapsulated by decadent, landscaped gardens and embellished with crisp white hydrangeas. Combine this with an array of personal touches, bespoke service and scrupulous attention to detail, and before you lies a charming oasis - just a stone’s throw away from the heart of the historic market town of Bawtry - perfect for those looking for a unique and personalised wedding experience.

Diligence is at the heart of any celebration and at Bawtry Hall each is a happy marriage of classic elegance and contemporary style. Whether you’re looking for an affluent grand reception, a chic civil ceremony, or complete wedding package - with no hidden extras - couples are presented with a choice of beautiful reception suites which can be arranged and configured to suit your exact requirements.

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To book your personal showround and private viewing, call 01302 710341 or email our events team on events@bawtryhall.co.uk Visit our webite www.bawtryhall.co.uk

TRAVEL

Golden Age of Travel A TRIP ONBOARD THE VENICE SIMPLON-ORIENT-EXPRESS IS THE ULTIMATE LUXURY. t’s a drizzly grey November morning as we arrive at London Victoria Station. We head towards the Belmond check-in area.

Belmond staff welcome us warmly as a brass band plays 1920s tunes for the throng of eager passengers congregated in the area… all of whom seem to be celebrating something special. The excitement in the air is palpable.

Unlike Harry Potter’s Platform 9¾, Platform 2 is real, and all the more magical for it. The Belmond British Pullman train is a glorious confection of cream and brown rolling stock, and we board our regally appointed carriage, aptly named Gwen.

Liveried staff serve a delicious champagne brunch whilst we sit in sumptuous wing-backed velvet dining chairs. This is the Golden Age of Steam Travel; gleaming wood-panelled walls and bevelled mirrors, crisp white linen cloths and twinkling crystal… certainly fit for The Queen Mother, whom Gwen transported to Brighton in 1948.

The Kent countryside gently rolls by and we soon arrive in Folkestone. There’s then the small matter of the English Channel. Belmond deal with this in style, and we are transferred to gleaming silver coaches, each hosted by a Belmond Guide.

We sit opposite a pair of grandparents from Gwent, fulfilling a lifelong ambition to ride on the Venice Simplon-OrientExpress, and next to four Glaswegians, celebrating their retirement. The coaches board the container that whisks us through the tunnel, and we arrive in Calais.

A brass band plays as we arrive at the station, and there she is; with her blueuniformed, white-gloved staff lined up in front of her beautiful blue, cream and gold vintage carriages – The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express.

Our affable steward, Rupert, settles us in to our cabin suite and shows us how things work. There’s a sink stall in each cabin equipped with luxury toiletries and thick fluffy towels. Tapestry banquettes

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58 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

TRAVEL

become bunk beds and it’s all so cleverly designed and oh-so plush.

They say you can never be overdressed on the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express, so we change for dinner and head to the bar to mingle.

I half expect to see Hercule Poirot stick his pomaded head out from one of the cabin doors… and imagine I see little Daisy Armstrong’s mother, draped in chiffon, just disappearing into the carriage ahead.

We understand how this beautiful train inspired Agatha Christie to write her timeless whodunnit, now twice transferred to the silver screen.

Bar 3674 is buzzing. Passengers are in their finery, a pianist tinkles out the standards, whilst Walter Nisi, head barman, serves up ‘The Guilty Twelve’ signature cocktail to the giddy revellers.

The Granny from Gwent has donned a flapper dress and with a red feather in her hair, leans in to tell me she is a professional medium and can tell I have a sixth sense ‘ripe for development.’

The greying Glaswegians have morphed into the Gay Gordons, in full tartan regalia. “Confusion to Our Enemies!” is their cry, as they charge their glasses. This is not a trip for the introvert, and we soon gravitate to likeminded folk who become firm new friends.

Dinner is superb, served in one of the three dedicated dining cars. Christian Bodiguel, head chef since 1984, tells us he has just served 174 diners, with 40 more meals being prepared for passengers joining the train in Paris. We marvel at his ability to create Michelin Star cuisine in such a tiny galley.

When we return to our cabin, Rupert has transformed it into a cosy haven. The rosy glow from the filigree table lamp is enchanting and it’s easy to see why so many wedding proposals occur on this trip.

Morning finds us cosy in crisp white sheets and woollen blankets. Breakfast is served and we open the blinds to be enraptured by the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps; snow-capped mountains and dramatic ravines.

We meander along the corridor back to the bar. The pianist is playing the moving score from Cinema Paradiso as we glide through the Italian vineyards.

It’s all too beautiful and one is forgiven by one’s spouse for momentarily welling up.

We lunch with our new friends and

From top: Onboard The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and Belmond Hotel Cipriani, Venice

“Breakfast is served and we open the blinds to be enraptured by the breathtaking scenery of the Swiss Alps; snow-capped mountains and dramatic ravines.” enjoy sharing past travel tales whilst experiencing this incredible new one together, A bond is forged.

Verona is the next stop and its time for Afternoon Tea. By 6.30 we slide into Venice, feeling both elated yet sad as we reach our destination. However, a new thrill awaits, and Belmond staff speed us by water taxi to the famous Belmond Hotel Cipriani, honeymoon choice for George and Amal Clooney. They chose well. This must be the most imposing of all the hotels in Venice. An oasis of calm and grace, just six minutes from St Marks Square in the hotel’s own private water shuttle, with incredible staff who make each and every guest feel as special as the Clooneys.

Our gorgeous room has stunning views across the lagoon and the huge swimming

pool, set in manicured grounds.

We dine at the chic and buzzy Cips Club, on the best pasta in the world and wonder how many pounds we have gained in the past few days.

The next morning we breakfast on the covered terrace, as the sun rises over the water, and recognise fellow passengers from the train. We all agree that this has been the trip of a lifetime.

Later, when we pull away from the jetty for our transfer to the airport, we know we are taking many wonderful memories home with us. It softens the blow of our return to reality. A little.

For more information about Belmond,The Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and the Belmond Hotel Cipriani, call 0845 077 2222 or visit www.belmond.com Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 59

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Christmas Quiz CHALLENGE YOURSELF – OR YOUR WHOLE FAMILY – WITH OUR ANNUAL FESTIVE BRAINTEASER AND YOU COULD WIN TICKETS TO BLUE PLANET II – LIVE IN CONCERT. ere’s a tricky quiz to keep your brain ticking over during the festive period – with the fabulous prize of a pair of tickets to see one of the biggest shows of 2019, Blue Planet II – Live In Concert, which is coming to Leeds’ first direct arena on Tuesday 19 March.

We have two pairs of tickets to offer as prizes for this concert which features film sequences from the BAFTA award-winning series. BBC presenter Anita Rani will host the concert. She says: “I can’t wait to stand on stage with an 80-piece orchestra and huge screen showing some of that incredible Blue Planet II footage, it should be an amazing experience!”

Accompanied by the original immersive television music score by Bleeding Fingers Music, composed by Hans Zimmer, Jacob Shea and David Fleming, the concert will be performed live by the City of Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, and conducted by Matthew Freeman.

For the chance to win this superb prize send an email with your answers to chris.wilson@rmcmedia.co.uk. We’ve tried to make it a real challenge and some lateral thinking is involved... not all the answers can be found by consulting Dr Google!

We’re giving you the full festive period to come up with all 20 answers... closing date is Friday 4 January. Good luck.

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Checking Out

Famous Last Lines

We said goodbye to a host of famous names over the last 12 months. Can you recognise these dearly departed souls from 2018?

Most of us will settle down to watch an old movie or two over Christmas. Can you recognise these Hollywood classics from the last words spoken in the films? We’ve thrown in some little clues to help you.

1. This pioneer of the nightclub scene in Sheffield and Leeds created local venues where stars like Jimi Hendrix and Stevie Wonder performed. He later moved to London where he became synonymous with lap-dancing and leopard skin.

6. Spoken by a man driving a speedboat to another man who is wearing a dress.

“Well, nobody’s perfect.”

2. This tough guy actor’s best role came in a harrowing film about four friends who meet up for a weekend canoeing trip in the wilds of Georgia... the locals are not impressed. He also posed naked for Cosmopolitan.

3. This singer, songwriter, civil rights activist, actress, and pianist was the daughter of a Baptist minister and first found success as a gospel singer before becoming a soul superstar.

She sang at the funeral of Martin Luther King and the inauguration of Barack Obama.

4. This British TV presenter and radio DJ found fame on a game show where contestants ran around a supermarket filling their trolleys.

5. This spectacularly bright scientist had a rare early-onset slow-progressing form of motor neurone disease that gradually paralysed him over the decades, but even after the loss of his speech, he was able to communicate through a speech-generating device, initially through use of a hand-held switch, and eventually by using a single cheek muscle.

7. It looks like the perfect robbery until the getaway vehicle tries to negotiate a tricky bend.

“Hang on a minute lads. I’ve got a great idea.”

8. A criminal with cannibal tendencies makes a long-distance call to remind the detective on his trail that he is still very much at large... and up to his old tricks.

“I do wish we could chat longer but I’m having an old friend for dinner. Bye.” 9. A nightclub owner teams up with a police boss as they leave a nasty Nazi dead in a foggy airport. They fly away to join the Free French Army in West Africa.

“Louis, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”

10. An eccentric scientist has invented a time-travelling car.

“Where we’re going we don’t need roads.”

Quote...Unquote Who made the news in 2018 with the following snappy soundbites?

16. “I’m not sure I’ll ever wear a waistcoat again.”

17. “Kim Jong Un just stated that the “Nuclear Button is on his desk at all times.” Will someone from his depleted and food starved regime please inform him that I too have a nuclear button, but it is a much bigger and more powerful one than his, and my button works!”

Sing a song of Christmas Most of us will find ourselves singing carols at some stage over the festive period, but can you use the clues below to identify these festive favourites.

11. Which famous Christmas song sends tidings of comfort and joy?

12. When did Good King Wenceslas last look out?

13. What type of pudding do the carollers sing about in We Wish You a Merry Christmas?

14. Which famous Christmas carol ends with the words: ‘Hosanna in excelsis!’

15. What type of tree is mentioned in The Twelve Days of Christmas?

18. “A decade after the financial crash, people need to know that the austerity it led to is over and that their hard work has paid off.”

19. “There was something about putting this hat on that made me feel like Superman.”

20. “Some of us are mountain climbers but if you get to the top of your favourite mountain and you stay there, you become an observer. I want to keep climbing.”

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18ct Yellow Golf Whitby Jet and Diamond Solitaire Ring. Available in store and online at W Hamond, 10 Queen Victoria Street, Leeds, LS1 6BE. Tel: 0113 234 0538. whamond.com

HD Brows Best of Beauty Box. £129.

Available from Pout Beauty, 172-174 Harrogate Road, Chapel Allerton, Leeds, LS7 4NZ. Tel: 0113 268 1618. www.poutbeautysalon.com

Lunar Tamsin block heel boot. Available from Ragdoll of Pudsey, 76 Galloway Lane, Pudsey, Leeds, LS28 8LE. Tel: 01274 660880. www.ragdollofpudsey.co.uk

GET INSPIRATION FROM THE INDEPENDENTS THIS CHRISTMAS.

Oris ‘65 Divers Watch. £1,270. Available from Phillips of Ilkley, 23 Brook Street, Ilkley, LS29 8AA. Tel: 01943 609567. phillipsofilkley.co.uk

Stella McCartney tote bag. £710. Available from Morgan Clare, 3 Montpellier Gardens, Harrogate, HG1 2TF. Tel: 01423 565709. www.morganclare.co.uk

Tonies: the new audio system that changes the way children listen to stories and music. £79.95. Available from Little Alligators, 45 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, HG2 0NL. Tel: 07595 178763. www.littlealligators.com

Gents Seiko Presage Automatic Stainless Steel Wristwatch. £349. Queensbury Jewellers, 336 Kirkstall Road, Leeds, LS4 2DS. Tel: 0113 230 6070. www.queensburyjewellers.co.uk

Frog 43 Kids Bike. Lightweight 14-inch bike for children available in a variety of colours. £240. From Edinburgh Bicycle Cooperative, 140 Woodland Lane, Leeds, LS7 4QG. Tel: 0345 257 0808. www.edinburghbicycle.com

Provenance Inns & Hotels gift vouchers make the perfect gift for any occasion. £10, £20 and £50 vouchers available from any of their seven locations or via www.provenanceinns.com

Lampe Berger Artichoke available from Lighthouse Harrogate, 123 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, HG2 DNU. Tel: 01423 203229. www.lighthouseharrogate.co.uk

A range of festive gifts and decorations available from RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB. Tel: 01423 565418. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr

Give the gift of relaxation this Christmas with the Turkish Baths of Harrogate. From stocking fillers and gift sets full of luxury treats from comfort zone, NEOM and Skin Regimen, to gift cards to let your special someone choose for themselves. For more information visit them on Parliament Street, HG1 2WH, call them on 01423 556746 or visit www.turkishbathsharrogate.co.uk

Give a Devonshire gift with their wide range of vouchers. Available from www.devonshirehotels.co.uk

Tickets to Blue Planet II – Live in Concert from £44.80. Available from www.flydsaarena.co.uk

Gift vouchers for luxury short breaks, spa days and treatments, dining and a wide range of activities from off-roading to falconry available from The Coniston Hotel Country Estate & Spa, Coniston Cold, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 4EA. Tel: 01756 748080. www.theconistonhotel.com

Specialized Concept Store Specialized Demo Long Sleeve Jersey. £65.

Unit 1, 8 West Park, Harrogate, HG1 1BL Tel: 01423 528240 www.specializedconceptstore.co.uk

What better gift than an experience at Rudding Park Hotel? From Champagne Afternoon Tea, spa packages and overnight stays to golf lessons. Monetary vouchers are also available from Rudding Park Hotel, Follifoot, Harrogate, HG3 1JH. www.ruddingpark.co.uk

Rose cut emerald and sequin drop earrings in vermeil, £595. Available from India Mahon, 12 Montpellier Street, Harrogate, HG1 2TQ. indiamahon.com

A beautiful selection of home grown poinsettia available at Riverside Plants, Shadwell, Brandon Lane, LS17 9JL. Tel: 0113 289 3044. www.riversideplant.co.uk

Yaxell Ran three-piece gift set (now £100 off RRP) £249. All the key knives any keen cook needs in their kitchen arsenal.

Available from Steamer Trading Cookshop, 7-11 Princes Street, Harrogate, HG1 1NG. Tel: 01423 500187. www.steamer.co.uk

Beautiful festive hampers and a selection of gifts available from Haley & Clifford, 43 Street Lane, Leeds, LS8 1AP. Tel: 0113 237 0334. www.haleyandclifford.co.uk

Treat your loved one to a gift voucher for Bliss Beauty Spa and allow them to choose their own special pampering package. www.blissbeautyspa.com

Available from Georgie’s, 18 West Park, Harrogate, HG1 1BJ. Tel: 01423 560092

Quirky brogue paperweights. £49.95.

Available from Furnish and Fettle’s Harrogate and Wetherby showrooms. furnishandfettle.co.uk

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CHRISTMAS

Let it snow YEARNING FOR THOSE CHRISTMAS DRINKS OF YESTERYEAR? CHRIS WILSON TAKES A FESTIVE TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE.

CHRISTMAS

t all starts with a Snowball; for many of us it’s the taste of Christmas. If we’re being honest, however, this particular festive tipple is best kept as a memory, shot through with nostalgia for those happy family gatherings of yesteryear.

For anyone who grew up on the 1960s or ‘70s, there’s a good chance that your first ‘proper’ alcoholic drink involved that eclectic combination of Advocaat – a traditional Dutch alcoholic beverage made from eggs, sugar, and brandy – and lemonade. A dash of lime cordial was optional, a couple of ice cubes to chill it all down were essential, the glace cherry sitting atop the pale white head of foam that never dissolved and remained at the bottom of the glass merely confirmed

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that this was a precursor to what future generations would come to call alcopops.

We laugh now but when you look at where that first sip of the demon drink can lead, that slippery slope to hellish hangovers, the much-mocked snowball has a significant part to play in the drinking culture of many adults today.

But what does it actually taste like?

The alcoholic element, Advocaat, has been described as being ‘like fruit custard... with a kick’. My main memory is of the scum that formed in the back of the throat and remained for an unfeasibly long time after the glass had been drained. Despite that unpleasant detail the other thing I remember is that, to my pre-teen self, it was rather delicious and slightly daring.

My slightly older sisters share this memory, so much so that 40-plus years on they have revived the tradition. So it’s out with the Christmas morning glass of fizz, in with the Snowball. They claim it’s a delicious reminder of childhood and while I remain untempted, others obviously share their view.

Every December those distinctive yellow bottles of Advocaat, left to gather dust on the bottom shelf for the other 11 months of the year, are given a prominent position in the supermarket wines and spirits section.

Nostalgia sells, it seems. But if you can’t be sold on a Snowball, see how these other drinks from Christmas past work for you.

Babycham

Pony

Lambrusco

A camp classic and another forerunner of the alcopop, this fizzy delight was invented in the 1940s by a brewer in Shepton Mallet who started picking up prizes at agricultural shows in Somerset for a variation on sweet pear cider that he called Baby Champ.

Later renamed Babycham, it was the first alcoholic drink to be targeted at women, with cinema and television adverts showing smart young women straight out of the Rank Charm School, accompanied by blazered posh boys, declaring in cut-glass tones: “I’d love a Babycham.”

Babycham was never a cool drink. The dewy-eyed faun on the logo made sure of that before a drop reached the lips. It was aimed at the ladies who only drank at Christmas time.

If they weren’t knocking back the Snowballs, the odds were it was Babycham instead.

A triumph of marketing over good taste? Sneer if you like but the brand remains as strong as ever. As recently as 2011 sales were reported to be increasing, with approximately 15 million bottles sold each year.

If you own a stake in this particular company you can ignore the sniggers and raise a glass of whatever you fancy.

Back in the 1970s somebody somewhere, had a smart idea for shifting unfeasibly large quantities of a relatively unloved product... British sweet cream sherry (made from concentrated grape juice, sugar and base alcohol).

It was placed in small bottles that coincidentally happened to be the same size as Babycham. It had a strikingly similar ‘cute animal’ logo too, and a catchphrase that really caught on after a few years of heavy Yuletide TV advertising. “The little drink with a big kick”. The packaging even had some tin foil around the top for added glamour and sophistication.

Walk through any supermarket these days and the wine department is so vast you’re spoiled for choice. But it wasn’t always that way. Wine was not kept in the home as a matter of course and was not seen on the family table, even on Christmas Day. It was only when we started going on package holidays in the late 1960s and early ‘70s that we British tipplers started to wise up on what we’d been missing.

But before we acquired the confidence and the knowhow to seek out the decent stuff, we were happy to soak up whatever was foisted on us on those first few all-inclusive trips abroad. So we sloshed back gallons of cheap, cheerful and fizzy plonk served with ice cubes.

Lambrusco, an oft-maligned Italian wine industrially made and cloyingly sweet, flooded the shelves and became one of the first reds to make an appearance on the British festive table.

The inevitable backlash left Lambrusco languishing but this is one retro tipple deserving of a second chance. A number of producers are now making distinct, slightly sparkling Lambruscos that are dry, crisp and delicious. Perfect as an aperitif or even with the turkey, if we’ve reached the prosecco tipping point, here’s one festive flavour that might just be ready for a comeback.

Cherry B It’s doubtful you will have seen this one or thought of it for years but far from languishing in the ‘where are they now’ files, these small bottles of cherry wine are still in production.

You may not see them behind the bar of your local pub too often but fourpacks are easily picked up in booze outlets, if you feel inclined to remind yourself of this syrupy and sticky concoction which, if memory serves, has a strong hit of cherry pie filling with a metallic aftertaste.

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 69

ANNIVERSARY

140 years young LEEDS GRAND THEATRE CELEBRATED ITS MAJOR MILESTONE WITH A SERIES OF STUNNING EVENTS.

t’s one of the city’s most-loved theatre venues, has played host to the likes of Julie Andrews, Bruce Forsyth and Elton John down the years – amongst many others – and is now celebrating a very significant milestone.

Leeds Grand Theatre turned 140 years old last month and marked the occasion with a series of events spanning two weeks, including ‘Oh What a Night’ a red carpet event in collaboration with hit Broadway and West End musical, Jersey Boys.

Built in 1878, reportedly following an off-the-cuff remark by Prince Albert that Leeds needed a good theatre as “nothing was more calculated to promote culture and raise the tone of the people”, Leeds Grand Theatre or The Grand Old Lady of Leeds (the staff universally refer to the Grand as ‘she’) is an intriguing mix of Romanesque and Victorian Gothic styles and a major milestone in Victorian design; famed for its sumptuous interior, plasterwork and other decorative features.

The brainchild of architect, George Corson, the build took 13 months to complete at a cost of £62,000. The overall scheme embraced six shops, Assembly Rooms, a Supper Room and large cellars; this magnificent Grade II* listed building was deemed ‘ahead of its time’ and once described as ‘probably the finest of its size in Britain’.

Opening night featured Shakespeare’s Much Ado About Nothing starring the then actor-manager and playwright, Wilson Barrett (several function rooms within The Grand have since been named in his honour).

Stars that have since trodden the boards include Ken Dodd, Peter Kay, Morecambe and Wise, Laurence Olivier, Cliff Richard and Tommy Steele. In more

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70 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

Image courtesy of Ant Robling

ANNIVERSARY

recent years, The Grand has welcomed Fern Britton, Dara O’Briain, Jake Bugg, Andrew Flintoff, Nigel Havers, Jane McDonald and Sting.

Seating 1,466 at full capacity, the auditorium provides a home for performances of all types, including its resident companies Opera North and Northern Ballet. Since its Heritage Lottery Fund and Arts Council supported ‘transformation’ in 2006, the theatre has hosted the best of the West End and other touring productions, including large musicals, drama from the National Theatre, comedians and music.

The theatre provided a venue for the world premieres of Gary Barlow and Tim Firth’s, The Girls (2015), and Fat Friends The Musical (2017), which was penned

by Leeds’s own award-winning writer, Kay Mellor.

Chris Blythe, CEO, says: “Leeds Grand Theatre is a stalwart in a city famed for its cultural offering; a jewel in its crown.

It has welcomed an incredible number of diverse entertainers and shows over the past 140 years and will continue to do so for many years to come; we hope at least another 140!

“Thanks to the overwhelming and

enduring support of the people of Leeds (not forgetting the significant financial support from Leeds City Council and the Heritage Lottery Fund) the theatre has weathered substantial challenges throughout its 140 years. From a planned demolition in 1969 to make way for new office blocks to the discovery of a significant risk to the roof holding up the ornate plaster ceiling in the auditorium which almost closed the venue in 2016, the theatre remains true to the old motto that ‘the show must go on’. It is a tribute to the staff, both past and present that this ‘grand old lady’ of Leeds continues to bring entertainment and joy to the city and the region.”

Patrons of Leeds Grand are being encouraged to share their stories on social media tagging @grandtheatreLS1 and using the hashtag #LeedsGrandAt140 or by emailing info@leedsgrandtheatre.com. The best stories will be shared on The Grand’s social platforms.

Leeds Grand Theatre 46 New Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6NU Tel: 0844 848 2700 www.leedsgrandtheatre.com

“We should all be so very proud of the Grand Theatre, right through the country, the world and of course here in Yorkshire.”

– Dickie Bird OBE

Image courtesy of Tony O’Connell

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 71

Pink Espresso Martini from Vice (above) – a choice pick from the fourth Cocktail Experience event at Aspire (right)

WHAT’S GOING ON LEEDS? MAVEER SINGHPANGU STEPS INTO CHRISTMAS.

72 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

o, it’s now officially okay to start getting all excited over Christmas, but I’ve been in the festive spirit since October with all the events I’ve been planning. But it wasn’t until I met Peppa Pig at the Merrion Centre Magical Christmas launch event and then to see the lights being switched on by Amelia Lily at The Piazza Centre in Huddersfield that things got really festive for me.

As a result of all this, the younger members of my family now think I’m the coolest, most connected guy in the city – I’ll take that! The rest of November was a bit of a rollercoaster, but it was a ride I didn’t want to get off, as there were so many highs.

The proudest moment was seeing over 600 of the city’s most up for it party animals having the time of their lives at our fourth Cocktail Experience event at Aspire.

And, whilst I didn’t manage to try all 16 cocktails, I had a damn good go at it. Choosing a favourite was difficult, but it has to be between the White Chocolate Coco Kiss from Oracle or the Pink Espresso Martini from Vice.

Other highlights for me included hosting events for Mulberry in Leeds and Manchester, and lording it up in a VIP box at First Direct Arena whilst watching the fabulous Jess Glynne with my besties. It’s the only way to

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enjoy a gig in my opinion, you won’t want it any other way once you’ve tried it.

But it wasn’t all cocktails, concerts and partying. I attended an event with Deborah at Whitewall Gallery in Leeds to prove to her that I do have a cultural side, although I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t delighted to discover they had their own Champagne bar. How come nobody told me this before?

Joking aside, I found myself captivated by man of the moment and artist extraordinaire, Fabian Perez.

I’ll be back to pick up some art to fill the walls of my newly renovated home for sure.

Moving onto one of my other fave subjects – food-lunchtimes have been mostly spent eating comfort food at the German Market or in Revs de Revolucion Cuba, where I’m gradually working my way de Cuba through the new menu. Standout dishes for me so far have been the Cajun and Lime King Prawns with spinach and blackberry salad (when I’m being behaved), or the Chicken and Guacamole Burrito (when Debs isn’t there prodding me with her diet stick).

The only thing I haven’t yet decided upon is what to do for New Year’s Eve. It can be such an anti-climax at times, but I want to see 2019 in with a bang.

I’m contemplating between a friend’s house party, or an evening at Malmaison, who are offering ticketholders a luxe buffet and five hours of all-inclusive drinks.

Hmmm, decisions, decisions, although I think the Mal might just tip it for me (they had me at luxe buffet). Thanks for reading guys and wishing you all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Follow my antics on Instagram @pg_hl @maveer123

Culture vulture... Deborah admiring the art at Whitewall Gallery

Luxe buffet at the Malmaison (above) and the Mulberry shopping event in the Victoria Quarter

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 73

AWARDS

Toasting the ‘Elite’ GUESTS FLOCKED TO ELLAND ROAD FOR AAGRAH’S 36TH ANNUAL CHARITY BUSINESS DINNER, WHICH CELEBRATED THE BEST IN YORKSHIRE BUSINESS. orkshire-based Aagrah Restaurant Group’s 36th Aagrah Annual Business Dinner celebrated Yorkshire Power Leaders and some of the most elite businesses in Yorkshire. The event was supported by Welcome to Yorkshire, Leeds City Council and Bradford Metropolitan District Council.

The dinner was held at the Centenary Pavilion, Leeds United. Around 600 influential business guests, including many CEOs, managing directors and other key decision makers, attending the hot ticket glamorous event which raised £125,000.

The prestigious black-tie dinner focuses on a current business topic with this year’s theme of Yorkshire Power

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74 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

Leaders incorporating Elite Yorkshire Business Awards 2018.

Yorkshire has some of the largest and most successful companies and Power Leaders with their head offices based in this part of the country.

Regional, national and global brands turned out in force to one of the biggest business event of its kind. The dinner is widely acknowledged as the platform to be seen for great business connections.

Keynote speaker Michael Carr, Head of Business at JCT600 Brooklands, gave an engaging speech, telling how the company grew from its humble beginnings to the remarkable success of the JCT600 brand of a family business.

Entertainment was provided by international stars The Ayuob Sisters, duo

violinists, and the Angel Dancers group, based in London, who delivered a spectacular and glittering performance with their troupe of dancers. Guests were treated to a lavish five-course Aagrah banquet which included a theatrical whole leg of lamb per table, gently cooked to perfection to rave reviews by guests.

Aagrah’s managing director, Mohammed Aslam MBE, Deputy Lieutenant said: “It’s great to see so many people here, we are truly grateful to everyone for their support in particular and our lead partners, Cobra, Kingfisher, LWC, Pepsi and Tilda without whom this would not be possible.”

Aagrah is the UK’s largest Kashmiri restaurant with 13 branches including The Midpoint Conference and

AWARDS

“It’s great to see so many people here, we are truly grateful to everyone for their support in particular and our lead partners, Cobra, Kingfisher, LWC, Pepsi and Tilda without whom this would not be possible.”

– Mohammed Aslam MBE, Deputy Lieutenant Banqueting suite employing 300 staff.

Aagrah also have a share of the home dining market with their popular Tarka Cooking sauces, available in Asda and Coop.

Aagrah’s fundraising is done through its charity wing, Jannat Welfare International Trust, in memory of Sajid Sabir, late son of Aagrah’s Chairman, Mohammed Sabir, MBE, Hons Dbs to benefit local, national and international charities.

With generous support from sponsors and supporters, including Cobra, Kingfisher, LWC, Pepsi and Tilda, Aagrah has raised over £2.1million to date, and the money has transformed the lives of many and of all ages. This year’s main beneficiary charity is The Yorkshire Cricket Foundation, Leeds.

The dinner also played host to the Elite Yorkshire Business Awards 2018. The winners were: Elite Restaurant: The Burlington Elite Hotel: Yorebridge House Elite Law Firm: Stowe Family Law Elite Digital, Creative & Media: Exa Networks Elite Accountancy Firm: Mazars Elite Business of the Year: Tong Garden Centre Elite Managing Director: Richard Holmes, Cryer & Stott Elite Airport: Leeds Bradford Airport Aagrah Business Dinner 2018 Special Recognition Award: Kim Leadbeater, Jo Cox Foundation

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 75

CHRISTMAS GIFT HAMPERS AVAILABLE NOW Our beautiful hampers make a great gift for those tricky-to-buy-for people.

Browse our range on line or in store, and if you don’t find exactly the one you want, we’ll make up something just for you.

Free Deliveries in Mainland UK Haley & Clifford, 43, Street Lane, Roundhay, Leeds, LS8 1DT Tel: 0113 2370334 www.haleyandclifford.co.uk

TRADITIONAL GREEK FOOD OUTSIDE CATERING AND CATERING FOR PARTIES

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Order through our App – available on the Apple and Google Store for Special Offers and Discounts.

We deliver to postcodes LS1, 2, 6, 7, 8 and 17.

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76 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

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Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 79

CHRISTMAS

GET THE TRUE TASTE OF CHRISTMAS IN A UNIQUE ENVIRONMENT AT ALEXANDER’S. f you want to re-imagine yourself in a cosy Alpine hideaway this Christmas, then look no further than Alexander’s wondrous Off Piste experience. Totally unique – something Skipton-based Alexander’s excels in – Off Piste is the perfect multi-generational foodie fest.

Meander through the fairy-lit Christmas trees, vintage skis and sledges before dropping down to the Secret Garden, now home to a magical Swiss style chalet. Bedecked with cosy furs and plenty of hygge charm, this is one inimitable experience that friends and family can enjoy sharing together.

The Après Ski style menus crafted by executive head chef, Struan Macintyre, offer a range of hearty, authentic sharing dishes. Choose the ultimate Black Run menu to enjoy cheese fondue, beercooked frankfurter sausages and a cured fish smorgasbord, plus winter warmers like roast chestnuts and winter soup and pulled pork with flatbreads, apple sauce and crackling.

There are also toasty warm festive cocktails, hot winter toddies, luxury hot chocolates with a chocolate fondue to finish and for the children, a Little Reindeer Menu.

Susannah Daley, owner of Alexander’s

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said: “This is the sort of unique high quality experience that you don’t ordinarily get on the high street. Last year’s Off Piste was a tremendous success attracting families, groups of friends and large parties of up to 30 who took the whole chalet. We even had people dressed in full ski wear fooling followers that they really were on holiday! But rest assured – no coats are required as the chalet is full heated!”

Off Piste just runs for a short time until January 2019. For further information or to book visit: alexanders-skipton.com.

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* Bottle of Prosecco in your bedroom * Use of the spa thermal experience * Overnight Classic stay * Yorkshire breakfast on day of departure

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Tapped Leeds a contemporary American style craft beer bar featuring a state of the art micro-brewery. Featuring 27 rotating cask and draft beers or drink from our very own serving tanks. Try our delicious hand stretched pizzas – the perfect accompaniment to a beer.

51 Boar Lane, Leeds LS1 5EL Tel: 0113 2441953 www.tappedleeds.co.uk

We have a wide selection of 32 Draft Beers, Ciders and Ales to choose from plus a huge selection of bottled beers. so why not pop in to enjoy our amazing atmosphere.

OPEN: Mon - Thurs 10.00 - 11.00pm Friday & Saturday 10.00 - 11.45pm Sunday 11.00 - 11.00

York Train Station | York | YO24 1AB | 01904 659009 | enquiries@yorktap.com | www.yorktap.com

• Beautifully restored original station bar.

• 24 Rotating Cask Ales and Draft Beers Station Parade, Harrogate HG1 1TE telephone 01423 501644 email enquiries@harrogatetap.co.uk

Progressive beer, smoke & barbeque restaurant OPEN: 10AM–MIDNIGHT, 10AM–11PM SUNDAYS

2 PICCADILLY, YORK, YO1 9NU Tel: 01904 670 777 www.pavementvaults.co.uk NATIONAL CASK ALE PUB OF THE YEAR 2012 THE NO.1 CRAFT BEER BAR IN SHEFFIELD

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MULTI AWARD WINNING WORLD BEER FREEHOUSE & BREWPUB PLATFORM 1B, SHEFFIELD STATION, SHEAF STREET, SHEFFIELD, S1 2BP TELEPHONE 0114 273 7558 www.sheffieldtap.com SHEFFIELD’S MOST SPECTACULAR BREW PUB – 80 SEATER BREWERY ROOM AVAILABLE TO HIRE FOR EVENTS AND PARTIES

Clay target shooting in the heart of Yorkshire e Nominated as one of th in s nd ou gr g tin oo sh top 5 un otg the country by the Sh and Chelsea Bun Club

Voted the Most Favourit e Shooting Ground, Runner up 2015, Winner in 2016 and in 2017

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Established in 1960 and run by Mark Lawson, Hazelbank offers everything from private tuition through to Corporate events, Hen and Stag parties.

For a warm welcome and a day of fresh air and great fun with like- minded people, call Hazelbank today

Call Mark on: 07852 785 590 Hazel Bank Shooting Ground, Hazel Bank, Knaresborough, North Yorkshire HG5 0QQ Email us at: info@hazelbankshooting.co.uk

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 83

HOME & GARDEN

Bring your door to life this festive season with this rustic wreath, brimming with realistic eucalyptus foliage and LED lights nestled amongst the leaves. £35 from www.tch.net

Gold standard DECK YOUR HALLS WITH THIS YEAR’S GLITTERING CONTEMPORARY CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS. BY RHIANA HUGHES.

Super cosy and perfectly on trend, this extra chunky knit throw is perfect for snuggling in front of the fire on winter nights. £150 from www.coxandcox.co.uk

Get your home smelling festive with this sweet mandarin and grapefruit scented tall candle jar with Christmas tree lid. £18 from www.baylisandharding.com

Dobbies have plenty in-store and online to inspire you this festive season. This champagne glitter artificial tree is available in various sizes from £199 and decorations from £1.99 from www.dobbies.com

These metallic white and gold Christmas stockings from Penelope Hope can be personalised so Santa doesn’t mix up those stocking fillers. £48 from www.penelopehope.com

‘Gold Top Hat Champagne Cooler’ £74.95.

Also available in dark grey from Avant Garde of Baslow, Calver Road, Baslow, DE45 1RP. Tel: 01246 583888. www.avantgardeofbaslow.com

Make sure Santa stops at your house this year with this personalised doormat, sure to get the kids excited for Christmas! £29.99 from www.gettingpersonal.co.uk Save your fine china and use this porcelain inspired paper plate set instead so you can spend less time washing up and more time with your loved ones. £8 from www.talkingtables.co.uk

This eye-catching large ‘Gold Starburst Ball of Twigs’ light will look great either indoors or outdoors this festive season. £44.95 from www.hurnandhurn.com

Dress your table in style with these chic gold star bauble place card holders from Ginger Ray. Pack of six, £5.99 from www.gingerray.co.uk

Bring a Nordic touch to your Christmas dinner table with these stylish square marble coasters in white and gold. Set of four, £21 from www.cultfurniture.com Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 85

The new Touareg.

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An SUV with real power and strength, Volkswagen’s latest Touareg also offers true off-road capabilities. Available to test drive in our showroom today.

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We are brokers and not lenders and can introduce you to a limited number of lenders, who may pay us for introducing you to them. *At the end of the agreement there are three options: i) pay the optional final payment and own the vehicle; ii) return the vehicle: subject to excess mileage and fair wear and tear, charges may apply; or iii) replace: part exchange the vehicle. With Solutions Personal Contract Plan. 18s+.

Subject to availability and status. T&Cs apply. Offer available until March 31st, 2019. Indemnities may be required. Offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer and may be varied or withdrawn at any time. Accurate at time of publication. Freepost Volkswagen Financial Services. This vehicle is a WLTP (Worldwide Harmonised Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) type approved

vehicle. More information is available at www.volkswagen.co.uk/owners/wltp. However, in line with Government guidance, to facilitate comparison between different models from different manufacturers and to accommodate the full transition to this new testing regime, we have displayed NEDC figures. These NEDC figures are the values for this vehicle used in registration and taxation documentation until further notice from the UK authorities. These NEDC figures have been derived from WLTP testing, and may not be equivalent to NEDC figures from NEDC testing, so comparisons may be unreliable. Fuel consumption and efficiency figures are provided for comparative purposes only and may not reflect ‘real world’ driving results. Choice of wheels and other options may affect fuel consumption and emissions data. Official fuel consumption figures for the new Touareg model range in mpg (litres/100km): urban 36.7(7.7); extra urban 47.9(5.9); combined 42.8(6.6). Combined CO2 emissions 173g/km. Excludes battery, electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles.

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88 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

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PROMOTION

Iconic building gets new lease of life FROM ANTIQUES TO CRAFTS, THE MAGISTRATES MARKET IN PONTEFRACT IS SET TO BECOME A THRIVING HUB FOR THE LOCAL COMMUNITY.

90 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

he 200-year-old courthouse in Pontefract has been given a new lease of life and Magistrates Market is set to open for business in January.

The impressive Grade II-listed building on Front Street had stood empty since the magistrates’ court closed in March 2013.

But a change of ownership has brought a change of fortunes and these rooms, which once buzzed with activity as court cases were staged and justice dished out, will now have a very different feel.

Philip Weatherell is the man behind the transformation, immediately seeing the potential in a building that, behind its impressive façade, was looking a little unloved before he stepped in.

The vision for Magistrates Market is a place where local dealers in antiques, vintage and collectables, as well as local craftspeople can come together to showcase their wares.

It has a central location and the historical significance of the building enables the Magistrates Market to be the ideal setting for this, at the heart of Pontefract town. It is hoped to provide a thriving hub for the local community who can come and shop, have a cup of tea and find out about local craftspeople.

Once this side of the business is up and running, Philip is keen to make full use of one of the region’s most iconic buildings.

Further down the line there are plans

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to support craft workshops and classes in some of the larger, second floor rooms.

The team at Magistrates Market would like to show how the business will fit into the community of Pontefract but also that it will be a destination for antiques dealers and collectors from around the country with its close links to the A1, M1 and M62.

Magistrates Market certainly fits into the local community and provides a place where people can have the affordable opportunity to set up their own business in a grand setting when high streets in general are struggling.

One of the aims is to breathe new life into the heart of Pontefract and everyone involved in the project has been delighted with the response from the local council planning department and other key local figures, whose positive approach has been so helpful in getting the project off the ground.

With everything on course for a January opening, customers will find an eclectic mixture of antique furniture, jewellery, glass and pottery as well as vintage and collectables and upcycled items on the ground floor.

Artists and craftspeople will rent workshop space on the second floor of the building, such as upholsterers, picture framers, artists, milliners and florists.

There will also be a café which will provide a place for refreshment and relaxation for artists, craftspeople and customers.

Magistrates Market is set to be a real browsers’ paradise. Whatever you interest or speciality it will be catered for, and all under one roof. Expect to find a fascinating and eclectic cornucopia of artefacts including: • Antique furniture, silver, pottery and glassware • Vintage clothing, home wares, decorative items and collectables • Upcycled furniture, lampshades, soft furnishings • Handmade cards, gifts With 16 separate units as well as up to 100 cabinets on the ground floor, the centre will be fully staffed but dealers are encouraged to spend as much time as the can at the Market.

In the long term, they hope that this leads to an atmosphere of collaborative, creative working and there is lots of potential for exhibition spaces in order to share this work with the local community.

The building has lots of grand, spacious rooms with high ceilings and big open windows, allowing light to flood in. This adds to the sense of splendour and provides the perfect setting to show off the wide variety of items on offer.

Magistrates Market 2 Front Street, Pontefract, WF8 1BW

Opening times from January – Monday– Saturday 10am-5.30pm, Sunday 10am-4pm.

Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk 91

Discover a truly magical Christmas …at the RHS Harlow Carr Gift Shop & Plant Centre.

With exclusive festive gifts, decorations, food, plants and gardening tools & accessories, you’ll be sure to find the perfect treat for yourself and gifts for loved ones.

With the chance to sample delicious produce from local suppliers throughout the festive season, Christmas at Harlow Carr is definitely not one to be missed.

RHS Garden Harlow Carr Crag Lane, Beckwithshaw, Harrogate, North Yorkshire HG3 1QB

November - March Opening Hours Monday - Saturday: 9.30am - 5.30pm Sunday: 10.30am - 4.30pm

Every sale supports the charitable work of the RHS Registered Charity no. 222879/SC038262

SPARE A THOUGHT FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS HOUSEPLANTS, SAYS NIGEL EATON, HEAD OF RHS GARDEN HARLOW CARR SHOP & PLANT CENTRE. very year from late November through to Christmas Eve, millions of houseplants are given as gifts in the UK. As a horticultural retailer I am really pleased to see this trend, however, my biggest bugbear is how many people actually think about the recipient and the conditions they are going to put these plants in.

So many times in the past I have walked into homes where on the sideboard sits a bowl of elongated hyacinths strung up with a couple of knitting needles to stop them falling over with the gas fire blazing away. Or even worse, a lovely cyclamen wilting over the side of its pot, gradually desiccating on a shelf over a radiator turned up full blast!

So here is my plea on behalf of Christmas houseplants everywhere: if you are giving an indoor plant as a gift this year, please, please take some time to research the best options and make sure they will thrive in the conditions they are given into.

Traditional Christmas plants that were popular in Victorian and Edwardian times – mainly cyclamen, azaleas and potted bulbs – were ideal as they would thrive in the cold and draughty conditions of a typical period home. However, nowadays, many of us live in hermetically-sealed, heat-efficient houses that keep us warm all the time, so these cool growing plants have to adapt to cope with these conditions. A trick to get your cool growing plants to last longer in a warmer room is to put them on the window sill at night and draw the curtains, making a cooler spot for them to sit in overnight and recover from the central heating.

We do have a couple of fall back plants that have become popular lately such as poinsettia, phalaenopsis orchids and amaryllis, which are much more suited to the warmer atmospheres they find themselves in.

Luckily, there is a wealth of knowledge available online for you to look at before making a decision to buy. The RHS website has dedicated pages on plants for specific room conditions; it’s a great resource to help you find the right plant for the right place.

If conditions are right, your choice of Christmas houseplant could be the gift that keeps on giving well into the new year.

E

RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB Tel: 01423 565418 www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr 94 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

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HOME ESSENTIALS

Steamer Trading Cookshop Artesa Slate with Glass Service Cloche. £50. Available from Steamer Trading Cookshop, 7-11 Princes Street, Harrogate, HG1 1NG. Tel: 01423 500187. www.steamer.co.uk

RHS Garden Harlow Carr A wide range of notebooks and stationary are available from Harlow Carr to get yourself organised ahead of the new year.

Available from RHS Garden Harlow Carr, Crag Lane, Harrogate, HG3 1QB. Tel: 01423 565418. www.rhs.org.uk/gardens/harlow-carr

Lighthouse Harrogate A wide range of unique and beautiful lighting available from Lighthouse Harrogate, 123 Cold Bath Road, Harrogate, HG2 DNU. Tel: 01423 203229. www.lighthouseharrogate.co.uk

Christmas essentials GET YOUR HOME READY FOR THE FESTIVE SEASON WITH THE HELP OF THESE LOCAL RETAILERS.

Furnish and Fettle Jester chair. £499. Available from Furnish and Fettle’s Harrogate and Wetherby showrooms. www.furnishandfettle.co.uk Inspired Design Kitchens Give your home an overhaul with Inspired Design Kitchens, City Mills, South Parade, Morley, Leeds, LS27 8AJ. Tel: 0113 345 5728. www.inspireddesignkitchens.com

Harvey Nichols Kitchen Craft Three Piece Cocktail Set. £25.

Available from Harvey Nichols, Victoria Leeds, 107-111 Briggate, Leeds, LS1 6AZ. Tel: 0113 204 8888. www.harveynichols.com

102 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

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IN BRIEF

Merrion Centre Magical L-R: Rebecca Marshall, Emma Old, Jules Smith, Margherita Blair, Claire Greves

Friends’ fundraiser The beautiful Swinton Park in Masham recently played host to the annual Friends of Cundall Manor School’s Ladies Lunch and fundraiser.

The event was attended by more than 100 guests who were treated to a welcome drinks reception, a delicious two-course lunch, prize draw and fashion show by Well Heeled Boutique of Thirsk.

The Friends Chairwoman, Margherita Blair, said: “The Ladies Lunch is, without doubt, one of the highlights of the Friends’ calendar. The Cundall community are always very supportive and generous which makes this event not only very sociable but also a fantastic fundraiser.”

The school, based near Topcliffe, North Yorkshire, caters for boys and girls between the ages of 2-16 years.

To find out more about the school, visit www.cundallmanorschool.com or call 01423 360200.

Party options galore at The Light The Light have a whole host of Christmas party options this year, from Junk Yard Golf, their newest experience, to Escape Hunt, where colleagues can have real fun exploring all the different activities on offer. Team these unique experiences with delicious dining options, from tasty eateries such as George’s Kitchen, Radisson’s Fire Lake Grill House, Estabulo, Turtle Bay and Nando’s, and you’re set to be onto a real Christmas winner.

Turtle Bay offers a Caribbean Christmas with food options including Festive Platters and the Anytime Christmas Menu; Junkyard Golf is the par-fect venue for all sorts of bizarre holes (think UV garage, scrapyard slides, circus freaks and jungle bathtubs), all washed down with regular bar-stops; George’s Great British Kitchen offers celebrations in traditional British style including George’s Own Ultimate Christmas pudding; Escape Hunt Leeds ramps up the excitement and invites your work mates to experience a thrill like never before with three festive packages.

For more information on The Light please visit www.thelight.co.uk.

Tony’s epic charity trek Former Leeds Arena sales and marketing director Tony Watson, now communications chief for Lake District National Park, headed up an epic charity trek called the Team JKTA #100 Stomp.

Four lads set off from Leeds for the start line in Gallipoli and then on a 100-hour journey that saw them visit 13 countries travelling 6,000 miles and laying 100 memorial crosses at Commonwealth War Graves Commission sites.

They raised funds for the Royal British Legion and The Pilgrim Bandits, a charity that helps to rehabilitate injured soldiers and service personnel by challenging them with bold and adventurous excursions, restoring their confidence and empowering them to regain their strength.

To find out more or to contribute got to www.jktchallenge.com 104 Northside | www.northsidemagazine.co.uk

The Merrion Centre in the heart of Leeds is having its largest-ever Christmas celebration with its famous LED-lit giant festive bauble transformed into Santa’s grotto.

James Broughton, head of marketing and PR of Town Centre Securities who own the Merrion Centre, said: “With so many great new additions to the centre’s mix of retail and leisure outlets this year, we’re confident that this Christmas will prove even more popular as new and regular visitors come to experience the Merrion Centre and Arena Quarter.”

Chapel comes top The Chapel, Harrogate, won a recent strand of Four In A Bed, a weeklong TV competition that takes place across five daily episodes, in which the owners of four B&Bs try to convince their competitors that their guest house offers the best value for money.

In the first four episodes of the week, the owners of one B&B hosts the owners of the three competing guest houses. In the final episode, at the end of the week, the four owners reveal how much they are prepared to pay for their visits.

Owner Mark Hinchliffe said: “The week unfolded like a Shakespeare play... humour, tragedy and deceit!”

Straight as an Arrow Arrow Cars, the official private hire partner of Manchester, Bristol, East Midlands and Leeds Bradford airports, have been awarded a five-year contract with Birmingham Airport Richard Gill, acting commercial director to deliver private hire at Birmingham Airport with David services from January 2019.

Richmond, chairman of Arrow Cars The national provider will deliver a private hire service at Birmingham Airport 24/7, 365 days a year. This brand-new premium offering is a first for the airport and will see the experienced operator manage terminal front-based bookings for walk-up journeys on-site.

Arrow Cars, who have been working exclusively with a number of other airports for over ten years, will also provide customers with the opportunity to pre-book journeys online, via both the Arrow Cars and Birmingham Airport official websites, plus a downloadable app available on any smart device.

Arrow will deliver passengers with a unique, cost effective and seamless airport transfer service with dedicated pick-up and drop-off points directly outside the terminal building.

IN BRIEF

St Gemma’s shines a light As Christmas approaches it brings with it happiness and joyful memories. For many of us though it can also be a time of reflection as we remember our loved ones who are no longer with us. At St Gemma’s Hospice we understand how important it is to dedicate time to remembering those who have died.

The Light up a Life Appeal provides the chance to do this with friends, family and as a community. Everyone is welcome to take part, whether you have a personal connection with St Gemma’s or not. When you donate in memory of your loved one you will receive a special card bearing their name and a star to hang on your Christmas tree.

You will then be invited to join them at a beautiful candlelit ceremony at the hospice. During this there will be carols, readings and a moment of reflection before thousands of lights on festive trees are switched on. Each light represents the life of a loved one, and they will remain lit throughout the Christmas period.

Alternatively, if you’d rather remember your loved one in your own time, St Gemma’s will send you a Home Pack which includes readings, carols, a pin badge and a candle. You can donate any amount you choose and in memory of as many people as you like.

All donations will support the vital care of St Gemma’s patients and their families over the festive period. It will help people at a really difficult time, from the little things like a hand to hold in the night to the big things like managing someone’s pain.

To take part in the Light up a Life Appeal visit www.stgemma.co.uk/lightupalife or call 0113 218 5555.

Sommelier on song Sommelier David Burlton pairs Port with cheese at Hotel du Vin Harrogate on Thursday 20 December. Simply sit back, relax by candlelight and enjoy a selection from Symington Family Estates.

Included are bottle-matured LBV, tawny, vintage and white port from iconic names such as Graham’s, Smith Woodhouse and Warre’s, all paired with British and French cheeses. Tickets are £35 each and available from the hotel on 01423 608121, or by email events.harrogate@hotelduvin.com.

New venue for Treatment Rooms The Treatment Rooms of Harrogate have some very exciting news. From the beginning of December they are relocating to 18a Mayfield Grove, Harrogate, HG1 5HB. All the staff are moving. The same diary will be in operation and the current treatments and retail will be available too.

After eight years of working for Alex Smith current owner Louise Moore, Alex Smith will become the new salon owner. Alex is very excited to take the business forward, continue to keep up its fantastic reputation and carry on its success.

Devonshire delight The Devonshire Arms Hotel & Spa, Bolton Abbey has once again secured the accolade of Large Hotel of the Year at The White Rose Awards. The annual awards are the largest tourism event of their kind in the country, and on the same evening, the four red star hotel won Best Wine Cellar at The Best Loved Hotels Awards, in Cirencester, attended by some of the top independent hoteliers in the country.

It’s certainly been a fruitful harvest for The Devonshire Arms this season, with this double win topping off a whole host of accolades received by the hotel and its dedicated team of staff – these include a four AA rosette rating for the Burlington Restaurant, Elite Restaurant of the year in the Aagrah Elite Yorkshire Business Awards 2018, and Concierge of the Year being bestowed to Head Concierge, Andrew Seward, in the Boutique Hotelier Personal Service Stars Awards in October.

New appointment for Giggleswick School Giggleswick School has appointed a former director of the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, Belinda Eldridge, to the new post of development and commercial director.

The leading northern independent school is looking to expand its commercial activities to maximise opportunities from more widespread use of its 270-acre site and the new director position is seen as key to achieving this ambition.

Belinda joins the school from the post of development and commercial director at the Yorkshire Sculpture Park, where she was instrumental in boosting visitor numbers from 350,000 to 500,000 a year in five years and taking turnover to £7.6million.

Said Belinda: “I’m thrilled to have joined the team at Giggleswick.

I am looking forward to getting stuck into the role as there is so much potential here. We have such a beautiful site and we hope the public will have more access, whether it is for a wellbeing, yoga or mindfulness retreat, conferencing or corporate activities, enjoying the great outdoors through Giggleswick Outdoor Pursuits or even getting married here. We also have plans to expand the summer courses and international summer schools for which Giggleswick is becoming increasingly well known.”

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