Luxe July/August 2015

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ISSUE 35 JUL/AUG15

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ISSUE 35 JUL/AUG15

S UPE R H E RO GU T I E R R EZ. To t he b each. S TAR CH EF JAMES C LOSE. F1 ’s Rob Sm e d l e y. P O SH P O O CH ES . Ol d sc ho o l c o o l . H IP H OTEL S. Party people.

W R I T E R S I N T H E K NOW. A cul t ur al summer. G OL F. Luxe laps. GRAND G O I N GS - O N . Bi g n a m es. LUX E.

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Vertem Asset Management is an independent investment company with an individual and fresh approach to investment services.

• Genuinely Bespoke Portfolios • Investments • Stocks & Shares • Property • Hedge Funds & Alternative Assets • Bonds • Passive & Active Funds

tel: 0191 341 0289

email: info@vertem.co.uk

WELCOME

contents 8>> Luxe Life ISSUE 35 JUL/AUG15 Mentally I am on a beach somewhere.

Physically the packers are crawling around my house ‘like locusts’ putting my life in a mountain of boxes for the summer. Oh the joys of a house move (with no forwarding address in sight). Hence the need for that fictional beach on which to plonk myself.

In a fit of that on-trend mindfulness, I am pretending the packed suitcase is for some short-term jaunt not the foreseeable future.

And I have fuelled my fictional journeys with research that the pleasure-seeking reader can call upon too. Need a cool coastal bolthole? I’m your woman.

We’ve a dedicated section on seaside gadding-about in this edition complete with need-to-know information such as how to grill mackerel on your beach barbecue, where to find lobster to snack on by the sea and pinpointing cool coastal gaffs.

We welcome back the lovely Debrah Dhugga with her guide to hip hotels and we say hello to our new posh pooch on the beat, Alfie!

So more than ever Luxe will be perfect for a sit-back summer read – our chat with Jonas Gutierrez is inspiring and heart-warming – and the planned Spiderman Ball in his honour is definitely one to pop in the diary for November.

Whatever your footballing allegiance, the cause – awareness of testicular cancer – is a worthy one and we’ve teamed up with Jonas, his North East footballing friends and the charity Ballboys to support the event.

If every Luxe reader was to donate just £1 that’s a mighty £20,000 towards research, awareness and support. Hope you can help. www.justgiving.com/LuxeBallboys

THE LUXE TEAM Christopher March publisher chris@remembermedia.co.uk EDITORIAL Kathryn Armstrong editorial director kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Katharine Capocci Fiona McLain Elysia Agnew SALES Lisa Anderson account director lisa@remembermedia.co.uk Debi Coldwell account director debi@remembermedia.co.uk

10>> Do This Summer’s cultural and cool must-dos

18>> Coasting Nice things to do by the sea

22>> Jonas Gutierrez Football’s fightback superhero

30>> Go Gourmet Pages of summer tasting treats

42>> Fashion Angles Sleek new-season fashion

56>> Beauty Beachy Alfie is our new posh pooch with paws on the ground when it comes to seeking out the best high days, holidays and hip things for hounds.

His luxe things in life include: a good chew on a rock, a bowl of water with his buddies at Lord Stones Café and bit of rough and tumble with his best friend Bella.

Glow for summer

62>> Old School Inside a gallery-gorgeous home

66>> Coastal Home Get the interiors beach vibe

78>> Hip Hotels Cool hunting Deb Dhugga is back!

81>> Posh Pooch Hello to happy hound Alfie

86>> F1’s Rob Smedley Motors man and his luxe life

88>> Cool Cars We’re motors mad

92>> Social Diary What the beautiful people do...

Don’t forget to clock in with us every Thursday for our lively must-read Luxe Loves The Weekend email bulletin.

Sign up free at www.luxe-magazine.co.uk/theweekend Kathryn Armstrong, editor kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk Twitter: TheLuxeMagazine

Museum curator Joanna’s big fashion moment

Rob Smedley is the North East’s F1 hero with the lofty title of head of vehicle performance at Williams where he keeps Felipe Massa on the straight and narrow.

His luxe things in life number among them: a ‘Lost in Translation’ trip to Tokyo, fish&chips in Saltburn and his seen-the-world Smythson travel wallet.

PHOTOGRAPHY Kevin Gibson info@kgphotography.co.uk Nicky Rogerson nicky@nrphotography.co.uk Chris Auld chris@chrisauldphotography.com DESIGN Remember Media If you wish to advertise with us please contact our sales team: Lisa Anderson: lisa@remembermedia.co.uk / 07734 560565 or Debi Coldwell: debi@remembermedia.co.uk / 07910 918366

Remember Media Ltd, e.volve Centre, Cygnet Way, Rainton Bridge South, DH4 5QY remembermedia.co.uk All contents copyright ©2015 RememberMedia Ltd. All rights reserved. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy, no responsibility can be accepted for inaccuracies, howsoever caused. No liability can be accepted for illustrations, photographs, artwork or advertising materials while in transmission or with the publisher or their agents. All information is correct at time of going to print, July 2015.

Joanna Hashagen is curating the hot-ticket fashion show of the year, Yves St Laurent at The Bowes Museum, Barnard Castle.

Her luxe things in life include: eating fresh fish overlooking the sea, a favourite navy dress from Folk and inspiring millinery from Stephen Jones.

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JUL/AUG15

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TICK AVA ETS NO W ILA THE BLE FO R OF OPE FICIAL NIN G

Official Opening 4th August 2015 When work began on the Walled Garden at Wynyard Hall almost a year ago, it was, in effect, a secret garden, having lain closed for decades. Now, after years of planning and months of hard work, we are ready to show you the second phase of our ambitious project; The Gardens at Wynyard Hall, which when complete is set to be one of the UK’s largest rose gardens.

Visitor Centre, Farm Shop & Café Year-round events for all the family Open 7 days a week 10am until 5:30pm

The Gardens | 01740 665 415 www.wynyardhall.co.uk | Tees Valley TS22 5NF

COME & JOIN US THE OFFICIAL OPENING Join us in The Gardens from 11:00am as Sir John and the UK’s leading rose expert, Michael Marriott, cut the ribbon to officially open The Gardens to the public. Explore The Gardens at your leisure, visit the farm shop and café then join us in the Grand Marquee for a delicious Afternoon Tea with Prosecco and live entertainment by Opus Four String Quartet from 1:00pm until 3:00pm.

TUESDAY 4TH AUGUST 11AM - TICKETS £25.00 CHILDREN (5-12 YEARS) £15, UNDER 5 FREE BOOKING REQUIRED - CALL EVENTS 01740 644 811 OPTION 5 OR BOOK ONLINE (PRICE INCLUDES ENTRANCE TO THE GARDENS & AFTERNOON TEA WITH PROSECCO) (SHARED TABLES BETWEEN 8-10)

5th

August

We have a full day of entertainment and live music planned from foot tapping jazz by The Pocket Orchestra (11:30am - 3:30pm) to balloon modelling, face painting and living statues to keep the young at heart entertained throughout the day.

August

6th

Join us at 1:30pm - 2:30pm for a historical talk, where we dive deep into the history of The Walled Garden, and take a look at a selection of extracts from the album of Lady Theresa.

Throughout the day enjoy yet more live music by The Pocket Orchestra (11:30am - 2:30pm) and the mesmerising magician Paul Lytton from 11:30am until 1:30pm.

7th

August

August

Explore The Gardens as The Paradise Steel Band play an intoxicating blend of Calypso, Reggae and Contemporary music (11:30am2:30pm) and enjoy a host of entertainers, from living statues to face painters.

8th

Kick start your weekend with live electric music by the band Storm (11:00am - 3:00pm), whilst the children are kept entertained by Snow Queen, Anna, Kristoff and Hans for a full hour of storytelling, sing-a-longs and photos with all of the characters (1:30pm - 2:30pm).

9th

August

To round off this week of events, swing on down to The Gardens as Mad Dog and The Sophisticats take centre stage (11:30am 2:30pm). Join Snow Queen, Anna, Kristoff and Hans for more storytelling, sing-a-longs and photo time from 11:30am until 12:30pm.

OPENING TIMES The Gardens The Visitor Centre Events/exclusive use

10am until 5.30pm 10am until 5.30pm From 6:30pm

ADMISSION PRICES To introduce The Gardens, we are offering a special introductory price so you can join us at the beginning of what will be an incredible journey.

Adult Child (5 - 12 yrs) Child (under 5)

£5.00 £2.00 FREE

Family Pass (2 adults, up to 3 children)

£14.00

Annual Pass (up to 8 visits a year)

£30.00

BOOK YOUR TICKETS With the exception of the official opening, all tickets can be purchased online or on arrival. For group bookings please contact the events team on 01740 644 811 option 5.

The Gardens | 01740 665 415 www.wynyardhall.co.uk | Tees Valley TS22 5NF

LUXE LOVES A glass act ‘Tis the season of race days, weddings and grand garden parties. Flash some subtle shine in wraparound cufflinks

by Flash Jordan, £195 www.davidsonsthejewellers.co.uk

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JUL/AUG15

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LUXE LIFE

JOANNA HASHAGEN Joanna Hashagen is no stranger to style. Curator of Fashion and Textiles at The Bowes Museum, this summer she brings the hotly-anticipated Yves Saint Laurent: Style is Eternal, exhibition to the Bowes Museum, a UK exclusive.

Brought up in York, her first degree was History of Art at University of Manchester followed by a qualification in Museum and Art Gallery Studies.

Joanna has been a curator of many temporary exhibitions at The Bowes, including Royal Style: The Queen Mother’s Wardrobe (1992), Wedding Dresses (2003), and Fine & Fashionable – Lace from The Blackborne Collection (2006).

She is married with two grown-up sons both now pursuing their own careers LUXE PEOPLE >> I think it would have to be Sonia Delaunay. I remember writing to her when I carried out research for my Art History thesis, citing her as a much neglected artist only portrayed in the shadow of her husband, so it’s wonderful to see her properly celebrated in her own right with a major exhibition. I saw the show in Paris and plan to see it again at Tate London, where it runs until early August.

Milliner Stephen Jones is one of the nicest people and a treat to work with. He’s worked with some of the world’s most prominent fashion houses and designers including Jean Paul Gaultier, Vivienne Westwood, Christian Dior, John Galliano and Giles Deacon. He loaned a selection of his fabulous hats for an exhibition we had at The Bowes Museum three years ago.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Edinburgh if I’m in the mood for a city break, or the Northumbrian coast for relaxing.

A long holiday > Italy. I love its culture, arts and architecture, plus the food never disappoints. I love Sicily too, for all the same reasons - history, landscape, food.

A treat > the South of France, particularly Villefranche and Cassis, where we’re going later in the year; it’s so chic and sophisticated. The weather is good, as is the food and the art.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > Eating fresh fish in a good restaurant

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overlooking the harbour in any coastal town, but especially at the above.

Best wine > Champagne Favourite restaurant > In the winter I like Blagraves in Barnard Castle, but in the summer I love eating outside at the Ship Inn in the village square at Newton by the Sea. Perfect weekend > Would be having family and friends at home, spending time and/or eating in the garden and then walking to a pub in Teesdale.

Downtime means > Finding time to relax in a chair in the garden while someone else did the weeding would be perfect.

Best telly > I don’t have time to watch a great deal of TV, but I do like light entertainment shows such as W1A and Frasier.

Best book > Kate Atkinson, Behind the Scenes at the Museum. We attended the same school, albeit in different years. She described York exactly as I remember it.

Best sounds > Among my favourites are Otis Redding, Stevie Winwood and Paul Weller, but I was brought up on jazz so I love Gilles Peterson’s playlist on BBC Radio 6 on Saturday afternoons.

Luxe retail treat > The experience of having my own personal shopper. I was dressed by The French Salon, Fenwick, for the VIP Preview party for Yves Saint Laurent which was just fabulous.

Best buy > A beautiful dress in silk fabric from Toast; the pattern is so lovely. I don’t buy clothes online, I have to see and feel the fabric.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I like Newcastle, especially Fenwick, plus I enjoy shopping in London with my sister-in-law Denise, where Folk is my favourite shop.

Favourite shop > I’m not really a ‘one-shop’ woman, although I do like Folk and Comptoir de Cotonniers.

However, I’m happy in any shoe shop!

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> My family - my husband Nick, my two lovely sons who I’m so proud of, who currently live in Newcastle and Bristol.

Working with the team at The Bowes Museum; it’s been so exciting to work on the Yves Saint Laurent exhibition and to see the interest it’s generated regionally, nationally and internationally.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > We went to the Hoochie Coochie Club in Newcastle for my husband Nick’s birthday, where we had our own booth and personal waiter. We really enjoyed it and would love to find the time to go more often.

Perfect party > I enjoy being with young people, so it would be dancing to a good live soul band with friends and family.

Best dress: A simple navy blue dress from Folk, which can and has been worn on many different occasions.

Dinner date > Dinner with my husband Nick, my brother Paul and sister-in-law Denise is always a treat. Paul & Denise know the best places to eat both in London or France.

JUL/AUG15

A genuinely service...

An individual and fresh approach to investment services.

Vertem Asset Management is an independent investment company with an individual and fresh approach to investment services.

• Portfolio management • Investments • Stocks & Shares • Property • Hedge Funds & Alternative Assets • Bonds • Passive & Active Funds

tel: 0191 341 0289

email: info@vertem.co.uk

www.vertem.co.uk

CULTURE BOOST

Stay in >> go out >> enjoy Elysia Agnew gets you in the mood for a cultural summer whether your thing is picnics, proms or pop Favourite chat show host and the BAFTA award-winning comedian, Alan Carr returns to his stand-up roots with his brand new comedy tour, yap, yap, yap! He jumps off his television sofa and returns to the stage, where our Friday night friend truly shines. He’s in Middlesbrough this summer to share his hilarious stories. www.middlesbroughtownhall.co.uk

11-18 JULY A British summer is unpredictable but the sun is sure to come out this July as the world’s favourite family musical, Annie, comes to Newcastle! The spectacular production stars Strictly Come Dancing judge, Craig Revel Horwood as the tyrannical Miss Hannigan! One for all of the family with the legendary songs I Don’t Need Anything But You, Tomorrow and It’s The Hard Knock Life. You can bet your bottom dollar that you’ll be blown away! www.theatreroyal.co.uk

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JULY

Our very own little angels sing out for Angels of the North Third Musical Spectacular. Be blown away by more than 400 fantastic voices from primary schools across the North East.

The children will be joined by talented pupils from the Bommel Musical Theatre School. It promises to be a sensational evening of musical theatre favourites, sponsored by North East International Cultural Exchange. www.sagegateshead.com

13 JULY, 27 JULY & 10 AUGUST Celebrated gardener Susan Cunliffe-Lister invites you for a two-course lunch, garden talk over coffee and a guided tour of the grounds of her home, Swinton Park near Masham. Get an exclusive insight into Susan’s gardening style and pick up some hints and tips for your own summer garden.

The lunch will feature several ingredients from the garden itself. www.swintonpark.com

16

JULY

The Glaswegian comic famous for his witty observations, Kevin Bridges returns with a brand new show A Whole Different Story! The stand-up favourite will be performing at The Lobby Bar in Middlesbrough this summer. www.kevinbridges.co.uk

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18 JULY Celebrating 150 years of Alice in Wonderland, enjoy the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party at The Beach House Bistro in Roker, Sunderland. You can look forward to a mash-up of Alice in Wonderland themed games and activities as well as playing dress-up as you delve into the wonderful world of wonderland. The celebrations will continue throughout the summer with a cupcake competition on 30 July followed by a day of summer beach games on 13 August.

The summer celebration of Alice and Wonderful will finish with a weird and wonderful White Rabbit treasure hunt on 27 August. See The Beach House on Facebook.

16-19 JULY

Join in on a BRASSical weekend this summer. BRASS returns to Durham for a weekend full of brass-inspired events, an incredible line-up and lots of festival fun. Fun Lovin’ Criminals, Cory Band and Tredegar Town Band and Benny Goodman & Glenn Miller At Carnegie Hall 1939 are among the acts you can look forward to.

Classical performances inspired by brass music include Dunedin Consort performing Monteverdi’s Vespers, Grand Tour and Buccaneer

by His Majesty’s Sagbutts and Cornetts, and Red Note Ensemble’s Sounding Brass. www.brassfestival.co.uk

22 JULY-1 AUGUST Lockwood’s restaurant has been a firm favourite on the Ripon dining scene for the last ten years. North Yorkshire-born and bred restaurateur Matthew Lockwood celebrates a decade of Lockwood loving with a week-long heritage garden festival. The produce grown in The Workhouse Museum will be cooked up into a three-course evening meal by the team at Lockwood’s. The fresh, local and seasonal produce will create delicious dishes for you to indulge.

A top quality relaxed place for you to kick back and taste the very best of North Yorkshire this summer. www.lockwoodsrestaurant.co.uk

29 JULY

30 24 JULY

Mixtape - bite-sized comedy inspired by music, previews its Edinburgh Festival show at Live Theatre. Part-theatre show and part-music quiz, Mixtape is a night out blend of comedy, theatre, music and pub quiz. The performers, called Mixtapers, take songs and using only the song’s lyrics create mini comedy sketches. www.live.org.uk

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JULY

Dress up for Collingwood Insurance Ladies Day, one of the biggest and most glamorous social events in the North East calendar. It brings more than 20,000 visitors to High Gosforth Park for a day of racing, fashion and champagne. Best-dressed ladies could land a prize. www.newcastle-racecourse.co.uk/ladies-day

JULY

Grab yourself a taster of the Edinburgh Fringe Festival here in the North East. At Nothern Stage this July you can catch some of the region’s most talented comics before they set off to the UK’s favourite funny-festival.

Headliners include Lost Voice Guy, Rahul Kohli, Sammy Dobson, Hal Branson and David Callaghan. www.northernstage.co.uk

30 JULY- 2 AUGUST It’s that time of year again. Stockton International Riverside Festival takes over Stockton Town Centre with four fun-filled days of brilliance. It’s a family event with entertainment to suit everybody, including street theatre, circus acts, dancing and some of the best artists in the area and from across the globe too. SIRF celebrates the very best of the North East. The event has become renowned for its community spirit, enjoyment and diversity, becoming a popular festival town and a must-visit annual occasion. www.sirf.co.uk

JUL/AUG15

Handmade Kitchens & Furniture e n or e st ard rs G rio ey te dl in Bra nd at co n Se ope w

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DO THIS

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

See the legend and hear the voice that is Sir Tom Jones at a special concert at Alnwick Castle. He will be performing a repertoire from his career, which spans six decades, and includes record sales of 100 million and 36 top 40 hits. www.songkick.com

WITH JOHN DANCE

TOAST OR CEREAL – THE BIG INVESTMENT DEBATE The ‘Active’ versus ‘Passive’ investment debate has rumbled on for years and divides opinion in a way that only ‘toast or cereal for breakfast: which is best?’ can rival.

Passive management and investment products are those that track indices or benchmarks as near perfectly as is possible and often include low ongoing charges.

Active management and investment products are those where the manager believes that they can add value or alpha via their own stock selection and process, providing a better long-term return than that of their specific benchmark or comparable index. Active management usually comes with a higher ongoing charge, justified by the levels of research and analysis required in order to do so and rewarding a manager for their skill.

Statistics are often used to argue the case of why passive is better. However, the phrase ‘lies, damned lies and statistics’ could have been created specifically to describe the way investment providers sell their passive products. “Only 15% of active managers beat the index 5 years running” is typical of the type of stat trotted out, which could easily disguise a multitude of managers who significantly beat the market in 4 of those years but were marginally behind in just one. Their 5 year return may still be significantly higher than the index, yet are treated as failures versus passive due to the statistical criteria used. Data is often manipulated to suit and over the years we have seen a vast variety of increasingly contrived methods to justify passive, most of which we can pick apart and often do for our own amusement.

Passive argues that markets are efficient and all available information is priced in.

If this were the case all stocks would rise and fall in unison, most definitely not the case. Since 1965 Warren Buffet has delivered a net return (i.e. after costs) which is 85 times greater than that of the S&P 500, or the return a passive vehicle would have done. Not a bad effort when you ‘can’t beat the market’. It’s not easy to pick the next Warren Buffet though and there are plenty of failures in the active world too. Luck can play a large part in success, especially in the short term and therefore at Vertem we feel that understanding exactly how an active manager is generating their returns and likely to do so going forward is vital. As well as us having conviction that what the manager is doing and thinking it will lead to future outperformance we also look for consistent historic performance over discreet periods. This allows us to avoid the ‘one hit wonders’, those who may have struck it lucky with one big call and whose cumulative returns mask poor performance most of the time.

We do feel that passive has its place too though. A typical Vertem portfolio will have a core of active funds or stocks we have actively selected ourselves, alongside a selection of passive products. The active element (we believe) provides long term outperformance versus markets, but obviously subjects the investor’s capital to the ups and downs of market sentiment. To offset this we increase and decrease an investor’s exposure to an asset class by buying and selling passive vehicles. These are usually quick and cheap products to deal and as the value of the investment comes from our own timing it makes sense to take advantage of the low ongoing costs of a passive product. We see ourselves as using passive investments actively.

We are big fans and big users of passive investments and as users of active investments too, we feel that we are better placed than most to answer the age old industry question of which is best, active or passive? The answer of course is BOTH.

30 JULY & 20 AUGUST Calling all Dads. A summer treat at Swinton Park Cookery School.

In partnership with barbecue specialist Weber, the North Yorkshire cookery school is hosting a one-day outdoor cooking course to ensure the dads out there get the most out of their beloved barbecues this summer.

You’ll discover the ultimate grilling, roasting, smoking and baking techniques as well as receiving some super useful hints and tips on temperature control to avoid those garden disasters. You’ll learn everything you need to know from Chef Director Stephen Bulmer against the stunning backdrop of North Yorkshire’s finest ancestral castle. www.swintonpark.com

02

AUGUST

Saltburn’s Food Festival adds a little extra with a new Home&Garden section. They’ve teamed up with Coast & Country’s popular Re:Furnish Emporium to create an ‘Art Street,’ with furniture upcycling workshops at the shop on Diamond Street.

Nostalgia fans will love the Whitby Vintage Bus that will be on hand to carry people into the heart of town as part of the Festival’s park & ride scheme, with cars able to park on the old coach park opposite Saltburn Golf Club.

For further info and updates, visit Saltburn Farmers’ Market facebook page.

4 AUGUST Hopefully we won’t need rain, sunshine and rainbows to find the treasure this summer break. Follow the clues at the Weetslade Country Park’s summer Treasure Hunt to find your very own treasure. You’ll meet at the picnic area and begin your search for something special to spice up your summer. www.nwt.org.uk

08 15 AUGUST

AUGUST

As summer comes to a close, make the most of the beautiful museum grounds at The Bowes Museum. What’s more, you can enjoy a glass of Pimm’s whilst taking in the scenery. Afternoon tea in the Jubilee Room is the perfect downtime after enjoying the exclusive Yves Saint Laurent exhibition with your friends. Discuss your favourite dresses and the mind-blowing French design with a relaxing and wonderfully delicious light lunch. www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk

21-22 AUGUST Castle Howard near York gears up for a festival of music with Jools Holland playing in the grounds on Friday followed by a Proms fireworks and festival night. Pack your posh picnic. www.castlehoward.co.uk

UNTIL 31 AUGUST Norwegian artist Ida Ekblad presents her first solo exhibition in the UK at the BALTIC this summer. The multi-talented artist displays her paintings, sculptures and poetry centering on a group of sculptures designed as a stage set for Constellations 2012, a play exploring the notion that everything you can imagine is simultaneously happening in a parallel universe. Ekblad welds pieces of mental together to create such unique and intriguing sculptures alongside the words of her poems and the expressions portrayed in her paintings. www.balticmill.com

8 AUGUST

John Dance is CEO and Chief Investment Officer at Vertem Asset Management. The Gresham, 92 Osborne Road, Jesmond, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 2TD. Call 0191 341 0280 or email johnd@vertem.co.uk Visit www.vertem.co.uk

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Plenty of you out there will have had teen angsty moments to the sounds Hue and Cry and the outstandingly successful albums ‘Seduced and Abandoned’ and ‘Remote’.

Swoon again to songs like ‘Labour of Love’, ‘Violently’, and ‘Looking for Linda’ when brothers Greg and Pat Kane perform at the O2 Academy in Newcastle. www.seetickets.com/www.ticketmaster.co.uk

JUL/AUG15

SUMMER EXHIBITION EXPLORE NEW ARTWORK & ARTISTS

Give your child the best start with the gift of an ‘Excellent’ Education Limited number of places available in our nursery for September 2015 ISI Rated ‘Excellent’ in All Areas October 2013

www.teessidehigh.co.uk 01642 782095

JUL/AUG15

6 June 4 Sep 2015

Take a tour of our new summer exhibition, which features a diverse selection of paintings, prints, glass, ceramics and textiles. We’re open seven days a week and admission is free.

Pictured: Samantha Donaldson, Vug, £1000

WWW.THEBISCUITFACTORY.COM

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SOCIAL SEASON

ROCKLIFFE LIFE Rockliffe Hall is buzzing with activities as we go into the high summer months - whether you fancy enjoying cocktails and champers (both guaranteed!) on the sun-drenched terraces (not always guaranteed!) or live music on Friday and Saturday nights in the Clubhouse - accompanied by a varied, summer menu - there’s a host of special events to suit all palates, pockets and penchants.

GET IN FASHION WITH ROCKLIFFE HALL >> “Fashion fades, style is eternal,” so said Yves Saint Laurent, the subject of a special exhibition at the Bowes Museum getting underway in July. To coincide with the opening of ‘Style is Eternal’, Rockliffe Hall in Hurworth is offering you the chance to accessorise your visit with a luxury break at the 5* resort. Choose from the ‘High Street’, ‘Designer’ or ‘Couture’ packages all offering special touches, such as a fashion-themed afternoon tea, luxury spa treatments, options for private viewings of the exhibition, chauffeur or helicopter transfers to the Bowes Museum and dining in The Orangery at Rockliffe Hall with menus by Michelin-starred chef, Richard Allen. Take advantage of these packages until 25 October.

GET MOTIVATED WITH AN ICON! >> Michele Paradise was a top model in the 80s and 90s, working for the likes of Thierry Mugler and Zandra Rhodes. More recently she has appeared on TV shows including Britain’s Next Top Model and How to Look Good Naked. Michele now works with well-known hypnotherapist, Paul McKenna, offering NLP and hypnotherapy to boost confidence and cure a range of issues.

Michele will be at Rockliffe Hall on 9 September hosting a special ladies dinner offering her expert tips on building confidence, breaking down phobias and boosting well-being.

GET SUMMERY IN THE SPA...

Make the most of summer and late summer nights with Rockliffe Hall’s Twilight Spa. Drop by after work, enjoy a few hours in the spa followed by an evening in the Brasserie with a laid-back supper.

…OR GET GOURMET IN THE ORANGERY Steal some time away to live the life of luxury at Rockliffe Hall with dinner in The Orangery - and enjoy a complimentary room upgrade when you stay the night. This midweek gourmet getaway is priced from just £290 per room, including dinner, bed and breakfast for two people with full spa use.

AN EVENING WITH THE SKY SPORTS TEAM

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AUGUST

Hardwick Live 2015 brings you three of the North East’s favourite up-and-coming acts this summer. The festival fun day will feature Smoove & Turrell, The Voluntears and Hayley McKay alongside some of the music industry’s biggest names. The Voluntears will take the Main Stage followed by legendary Britpop act, James and special guests Razorlight. Newcastle-based, Smoove & Turrell have been praised by the BBC and have been used to host TV shows such as Match of the Day, Strictly Come Dancing, Splash and Coronation Street. Singer and songwriter Hayley McKay has been writing and performing in Nashville, USA and will be making her Hardwick Live debut fresh from the fields of Glastonbury. Younger festivalgoers can enjoy face painting, magic shows, Punch and Judy, crafts activities, pottery and a children’s fairground throughout the family fun event. www.hardwicklive.co.uk

28 AUGUST Dinner, gin and jazz. The perfect way to celebrate the summer months at the National Glass Centre’s Brasserie in Sunderland. You will sway the night away with cocktails in hand, followed by a delightful three-course dinner. www.nationalglasscentre.com

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AUGUST

Spandau Ballet take to the grandstand lawns at the North East’s premier racecourse. After an evening of racing, the New Romantic favourites will perform live to racegoers at Newcastle Racecourse. The band will draw a wonderful evening of racing to a close with their classics including the iconic Gold and number one single True. www.newcastle-racecourse.co.uk

28-30 AUGUST Summer means its time to visit Yorkshire’s very own Glastonbury Festival packed with music, cabaret, 100s of local beers and top-class catering. Galtres Parklands Festival returns to Helmsley for its 11th year and it is sure to finish your summer fun with a bang. Set in the most spectacular rural backdrop overlooking the North York Moors, you can enjoy music from top artists and the best local musical talent from jazz and folk music to pop and acoustic classics. There’s comedy, night cabaret, theatre performances, family camping and what’s more… clean loos! Round the family together this summer and make sure you are part of the fun at one of the best family festivals in the county. A perfect weekend for your summer diary. www.galtresfestival.org.uk

UNTIL 27 SEPTEMBER Above > Chris Judson, Linda Taylor, Mark Taylor

Above > Charlie Nicholas, Jeff Stelling, Steve Gibson, Chris Kamara

Above > Sam Thompson, Mark Thompson

Laing Gallery takes a look back at 10 of the most iconic children’s books that have been illustrated and re-illustrated throughout the 20th century. See beautiful and rare first editions and original artwork by artists including Quentin Blake, Michael Foreman, Peggy Fortnum and Lauren Child.

There will be reading areas for children and families to enjoy and a cinema space showing short films of illustrators talking about their work.

The exhibition focuses on 10 classics - Just So Stories, The Iron Man, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Wind in the Willows, Paddington Bear, Peter Pan and Wendy, The Hobbit, The Borrowers, The Secret Garden and The Railway Children. www.laingartgallery.org.uk for details.

Above > Johnathan Stelling Jennifer Stelling, Vicky Judson Above > Steve Collins, Allan Adams, Mark Miller, Adam Loughran Above > Diane Hall, Andrew Hall

Above > Nick Lynch, Mick Reaney

LIVING THE ROCKLIFFE LIFE! Rockliffe Hall, Hurworth-on-Tees, Darlington, County Durham DL2 2DU. Tel: 01325 729999 www.rockliffehall.com

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JUL/AUG15

ADVERTORIAL

Moving abroad with your children In this age, social mobility is commonplace and what is known as global mobility is a feature of modern living. The decision to relocate with children can prove emotive and problematical when the parents are separated.

A High Court Judge said, “…the hardest decision that a judge ever has to make in the field of family law… is a relocation decision. The choices are starkly binary. One or other parent will lose and will be bitterly disappointed.

There is no scope for finding some comfortable middle ground”.

So what are the rules for taking children abroad to live?

The parent with whom the children live must obtain the consent of the other parent (unless the other parent is a father who does not have parental responsibility), and any other person with parental responsibility for any of the children before removing them from England & Wales to live.

If the other parent does not consent to their removal, the parent wishing to relocate must seek an Order from the Court allowing the relocation. In such circumstances, there is no presumption that the application will be granted, unlike the situation where a family wants to relocate to another area within England & Wales.

As with all children cases, the welfare of the child or children involved is the paramount consideration of the court and case law has determined that a number of factors should be considered which include ascertaining whether the desire to relocate is genuine and founded on practical proposals that have been well researched. In other

words, the parent wishing to relocate must show that practical arrangements have been investigated and dealt with, such as immigration and employment requirements, accommodation, schooling, and support networks for the family.

In addition, the court has to consider the conflicting standpoints of the parents and balance the possible impact on the parent wishing to relocate if permission is refused – particularly bearing in mind the indirect effect this may have on the children – and whether the opposition of the other parent is motivated by genuine concern for the future of the child’s welfare, together with an assessment of the extent of the detriment to the relationship between that parent and the children if the move were granted.

Clearly, this aspect of the case is far more tricky than deciding whether proper preparations have been made towards any potential move. Matters relating to the current frequency of contact between the non-resident parent and the children plus what arrangements are proposed for contact following the move are directly relevant.

The complexity of this kind of situation was highlighted in a case which has been before the courts for some considerable time concerning a young child and her Swedish mother who wished to return to her home country after the breakdown of her relationship in this country with the child’s English father. Many accusations were made by the father against the mother, who in turn asserted that she was isolated and unhappy in England and would be able to provide a much better quality of life for her daughter in Sweden.

Faced with a very difficult decision, the judge, and

ultimately the Court of Appeal allowed the mother to move to Sweden and in doing so, indicated that the father was unable to separate his own needs and feelings from those of his daughter.

As with all decisions affecting children of the family, it is always preferable to try to reach agreement and/or compromise. For those contemplating a move abroad or facing the possibility of their children being taken abroad to live, early expert legal advice is essential.

Joanne Major is the Principal at Major Family Law, the Divorce and Family Law Specialists, 12 West Road, Ponteland, Newcastle upon Tyne. T: 01661 82 45 82 www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk.

Twitter: @majorfamilylaw

Specialist divorce and family lawyers 01661 82 45 82 enquiries@majorfamilylaw.co.uk

redhouseschool.co.uk

www.majorfamilylaw.co.uk R O O M S • R E S TAU R A N T • B A R

Yorebridge House is situated in the heart of the beautiful Yorkshire Dales with stunning backdrops of rolling hills and rivers.

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The Victorian Grade II Listed former Headmaster’s House and School sits proud and welcoming, promising luxury, relaxation and beautiful interiors.

The award winning five star accommodation boasts individually designed luxury bedrooms, some of which include their own private terraces with outdoor hot tub.

Perfect for romantic getaways, Yorebridge House also offers superb 3AA rosette dining, including delights such as Swinton Estate Venison with Brambles and Chocolate, Beef Fillet with Confit Tomato, Onion & Oxtail, and to finish Dark Chocolate Pave with Pear, Honeycomb and Praline Ice-Cream.

Yorebridge House is also the perfect venue for a Wedding Day to remember. Licenced for civil ceremonies this exclusive use venue offers a bespoke wedding service to help you create the day of your dreams along with your own personal wedding coordinator.

DINE Our school offers so much more than academic success.

We create a nurturing environment where children are encouraged to achieve their full potential.

At Red House, children find confidence for life beyond the classroom.

WEDDINGS

Yorebridge House - Bainbridge - Leyburn - Wensleydale - North Yorkshire - DL8 3EE. - UK Telephone: 01969 652 060 - Facsimile: 01969 650 258 Email: enquiries@yorebridgehouse.co.uk - Web: www.yorebridgehouse.co.uk

JUL/AUG15

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CULTURE BOOST

UNTIL 9 OCTOBER In connection with the In Flanders Fields Museum in Ypres, Belgium, Durham Cathedral welcomes a special WW1 Memorial book. Assembly lists more than 174,000 UK soldiers who lost their lives in Belgium during the First World War. You are invited to search through history, writing your story next to your family name. www.durhamcathedral.co.uk

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SEPTEMBER

The food industry heads north this summer for a flavoursome food festival. The Universal Cookery and Food Festival at Vallum Farm is regarded as the ‘Glastonbury for chefs’, packed with a programme of events including a farmers’ market showcasing the very best of ingredients the region has to offer.

Supermarket favourites Marks and Spencer and Waitrose will be among those attending the tasteful event celebrating the local talent. Terry Laybourne, owner of some of the North East’s best-loved restaurants, will take to the stage to share his culinary know-how. The festival will go out with a barbecue bang followed by the best local music and even some free beer. www.cookeryandfoodfestival.co.uk

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UNTIL 1 NOVEMBER Dutch artist and filmmaker Fiona Tan launches an exclusive exhibition at the BALTIC this summer. Depot will re-imagine ‘Jonah The Giant Whale’, the story of a preserved whale, which toured across Europe exhibited inside a lorry. The vehicle will be recreated inside the BALTIC, inviting viewers to climb inside to see its curiosities. The quayside location is perfect for Tan’s exhibition, drawing on Newcastle’s forgotten history as a major whaling port. Photographs, glass models and illustrations explore history, time and our place within them. The exhibition will be available until early November. www.balticmill.com

BOOK IT NOW SEPTEMBER

26-27 SEPTEMBER

Glam up and book yourself a place at the opera this September at Yarm School’s Princess Alexandra Auditorium. London Festival Opera comes to the North East and promises to wow you with a thrilling programme of opera classics. The London Festival Opera celebrates well-known performers from some of the UK’s leading opera companies including The Royal Opera House, The English National Opera and Glyndebourne. It’s opera at its very best. One for your social calendar as the summer blues starts to kick in. www.thepaaonline.org

We can scrimp with style here in the North East and to celebrate, the Festival of Thrift returns to Darlington for a weekend filled with sassy savings. The festival’s main aim is to show people how reusing, recycling and upcycling can, in fact, be stylish, fun and green all at the same time.

The programme will be packed with emerging artists from across the globe, workshops, stalls, demonstrations and tips and tricks for the best thrifty advice. In the lead up to the crazy Christmas shopping chaos, why not get creative this autumn and prepare your very own upcycled prezzies. www.festivalofthrift.co.uk

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8 SEPTEMBER Talk tea as you take tea at Bettys Tea Rooms.

The company’s tea expert will chat about tea leaves and tasting at a special lunch event in the Harrogate premises. www.bettys.co.uk

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SEPTEMBER

Brush up on some basic techniques taught by the top chefs at Blackfriars restaurant in Newcastle. Learn how to cook delicious food packed full of flavour while you enjoy refreshments, lunch, wine and coffee throughout the day. You will even bag yourself an apron to take home to work wonders in your own kitchen. www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

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Lord and Lady Masham, whose family have owned the Swinton Estate since the 1860s invite you to a genuine country house party weekend experience at Swinton Park this October. Live the life of your favourite Downton Abbey stars. The classy weekend break will be packed with activities and a variety of countryside pursuits.

You will be a million miles away from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Relax… and take a break ‘Downton’ style. www.swintonpark.com

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OCTOBER

Swan Lake has been celebrated as one of the classic ballets for over 100 years and The Playhouse Whitley Bay is delighted to welcome Moscow Ballet La Classique with their latest production of Swan Lake in October. A definite for your theatre diary this year. World-renowned soloists Nadezda Ivanova, Andrey Shalin, Andrey Lyapin and Dmitry Smirnov lead the Moscow Ballet Company under the direction of Elik Melikov. In this world-class production you will join the La Classique professionals as they dance into the dreams of classical ballet and into the ultimate dancing fairytale of all. www.playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

27-28 OCTOBER For all of you young foodies out there… Join in the fun at Blackfriars Little Monk’s Cookery Club. Book your 7-16 year old into these popular sessions making cooking fun and giving youngsters the confidence in the kitchen - and anything they don’t eat… they will bring home for you! www.blackfriarsrestaurant.co.uk

JUL/AUG15

Installing the finest home entertainment since 1966

6 Kingston Court, Kingston Park, Newcastle Upon Tyne. NE3 2FP. 0191 285 7179 | www.petertyson.co.uk

CO

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Theatre sponsored by Middlesbrough College.

The star of ITV’s Britain’s Best Bakery, Peter Sidwell is also author of the Simply Good cookbooks, and executive chef at Rheged in Cumbria.

For further info and updates, visit Saltburn Farmers’ Market facebook page.

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8-9 AUGUST >> Spittal Seaside Festival happens at Berwick-upon-Tweed, the eighth annual Seaside Festival, it takes place along the full length of Spittal Promenade.

14-17 AUGUST >> Whitby Regatta stores up fun and fireworks, yacht-racing and a carnival spirit. One of the oldest sea regattas in England, it all started in the early 1800s with fishermen competing against each other in their fishing smacks and salmon cobbles.

15 AUGUST >> The Whitley Bay Film Festival is now in its fifth year and celebrates film, media and art in unique locations around North Tyneside and beyond. The festival takes place in August in Whitley Bay screening classic features.

Details: 0191 280 2413

Sandy days ahead >> Read on for our guide to a sand-in-your-shoes fun, feasting summer FILL A BASKET >> Pick of the best food from North Yorkshire’s suppliers at Scarborough’s new monthly food market, held at the top end of the pedestrianised area of Westborough on the third Saturday of each month, showcasing local produce. www.discoveryorkshirecoast.com/scarborough

COASTAL GARDENS TO EXPLORE >> Blasting winds and enchanting gardens will blow your mind this summer at Lindisfarne Castle on Holy Island. Just below the castle stands an enchanting walled garden created by the great Victorian and Edwardian garden designer Gertrude Jekyll. It’s a tranquil spot perfect for sitting back and soaking up the summer sun in one of the most popular Northumberland locations. The garden and its cornflowers, marigolds and sweet peas are most striking in July and August with an abundance of colour. A must for your summer coastal calendar! www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lindisfarne-castle

18-19 JULY >>

trip this summer. The scenic Runswick Bay is host to this family event where you will find a wide range of fossils telling stories from the Jurassic period and beyond.

Runswick Bay is a coastal classic for this year’s summer diary, so pop on your wellies and head to the beach for some fossil foraging. www.discoveryorkshirecoast.com

2Toots Scooter Club, annual Big Ride. Lambrettas and Vespas from the 1950s to now, classic, custom, mod, and street racer style, meet to raise money for Macmillan Cancer.

Riders from all over the North of England will gather at Beadnell Green, to ride through Seahouses, Bamburgh, Waren Mill, Budle Bay and over the causeway to Holy Island.

All scooterists (and bikes) welcome.

21 JULY, 4 & 18 AUGUST >> Cool off with a trip to the coast for a fun-filled fossil hunting

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Join in on an evening of rockpooling at the scenic Cresswell Shore this summer. As the night closes in, the rockpools are swimming with intertidal creatures so it’s your chance to check them out at their most active time. Buckets, trays and high-vis vests will be provided by the NWT staff. www.nwt.org.uk

18-19 JULY >> Beach Volleyball is back at Tynemouth Longsands with a weekend tournament and charity fundraising night on 18 July. www.tynemouthbeachvolleyball.co.uk/

The Mouth of the Tweed festival sees stalls from food and drink producers located within a 16-mile radius of the mouth of the River Tweed take place at Berwick-upon-Tweed.

Sample the tastes and discover the story of local food. Enjoy a boat trip on the River Tweed and explore the Food Heritage Trail. www.mouthofthetweed.org.uk

25 JULY >>

29 AUGUST >>

Warkworth Castle is a great place to take in outdoor theatre with a fine, picnic-friendly view. Pride and Prejudice and Sherlock Holmes are among performances this summer with Chapterhouse Theatre Company. www.chapterhouse.org

16 JULY >>

If surfing’s your thing or you’ve always yearned to learn, Saltburn and Tynemouth lead the way with courses, one-to-one tuition, board hire and a wealth of expertise for all ages and abilities. www.saltburn-surf.co.uk www.tynemouthsurf.co.uk

Whitby Folk Week is the place to hear traditional shanties and more. Music everywhere in the town from folk music notables. www.whitbyfolk.co.uk

JULY & AUGUST >>

Get seaside retro at Whitby’s Great Seaside Vintage Fair in the Pavilion with 40 stalls of genuine vintage from the 20s to the 80s.

SPLASH OUT >>

22-28 AUGUST >>

FISHES&DISHES >> Summer seafood demos are planned throughout July and August at the new Northumberland Seafood Centre in Amble.

An impressive variety of the freshest, seasonal, sustainable fish and shellfish caught off the Northumberland coast will be on sale to members of the public, 11am-4pm, Wed to Fri, and 10am-12pm on Saturday. Regular fish auctions will be held throughout the year where members of the public can come and buy seafood. www.ambleharbourvillage.co.uk/seafood-centre/

4 SEPTEMBER >> Coquetfest at Druridge Bay Country Park is a three-day festival of music, beer, beach and food with attractions for everyone.

Search Coquetfest on Facebook for more details.

1-2 AUGUST >>

12-13 SEPTEMBER >>

You don’t really need reason to linger at great-food, craft brewery Ship Inn at Newton by the Sea in Northumberland but be tempted to take a trip for the live music festival this weekend. www.shipinnnewton.co.uk

The Staithes Festival of Arts and Heritage returns for its fourth year in the historic fishing village. The unique weekend features 130 artists exhibiting in 90 pop-up galleries, spread across the village.

The weekend is based around a selling exhibition of paintings, textiles, jewellery, ceramics, sculpture and much more. Staithes’ maritime heritage is celebrated in talks and exhibitions and at an outdoor screening of historic film and photographs.

Music plays a major part in the festival with busking, concerts, acoustic sessions and the popular Men of Staithes choir. Food and drink is provided by the village pubs, cafes, bistros and restaurants supplemented by street stalls and pop-up tea rooms offering everything from tea and cake to seafood, bbq and traditional herring pies. www.staithesfestival.com

2 AUGUST >> The third annual Saltburn Food Festival brings the town’s Milton Street alive with a street market featuring around seventy of the best independent food producers from the North East and North Yorkshire, a kitchen academy for children, live music, world street food, live cookery demonstrations, outdoor dining and picnic areas and bags more besides. BBC Tees will be broadcasting live from the festival, and special guest chefs including Peter Sidwell and Richard Ingram will be cooking up a treat at a live Cookery

JUL/AUG15

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SPECIAL DISCOUNT OFF ALL STOCK FROM 30TH JULY - 1ST AUGUST. Late night opening on Thursday 30th July 5-8pm. Entry into our prize draw on purchases made over the 3 day event.

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EARLY ENCOUNTERS

SAGEGATESHEAD.COM Untitled-1 1

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SUMM

Coastal stay Glamping or just glam, our pick of by-the-sea getaways

Tasty times by the seashore >> Try a beer at Newton by the Sea made by home-brew heroes at The Ship Inn. Ship Hop Ale or Dolly Day Dream with a view to die for. Locally-caught lobster on the menu most days too. www.shipinnnewton.co.uk Head to King Edward’s Bay in Tynemouth for Rileys Fish Shack. Try a juicy mackerel wrap or ‘squid on a stick’. Prepared and cooked over real charcoal from the bicycle-powered stall. www.rileysfishshack.com

>> Pier Lane House

Crab sandwiches, fine views and sea breezes on the menu at Craster’s Jolly Fisherman. www.thejollyfishermancraster.co.uk

>> The Bells of Hemscott

Try the Amble shellfish steamer – a platter of three types of seafood with juice-mopping bread, served up by the sea at The Old Boat House. www.boathousefoodgroup.co.uk

>> Sweet Campers

Wits End Café is at the bottom of Lythe Bank in Sandsend near Whitby. Fine views and a fine crab sandwich from crabs landed in nearby Staithes. www.witsendcafe.co.uk

>> Craster Waves Another good crab sarnie spot is Sandsend’s Sandside Café, a sweet shack of a place with splendid homemade cakes and freshly-made crab sandwiches. www.sandsidecafe.co.uk

>> Castlegate, Bamburgh

TUCK-ME-IN >> Take a tour in a VW. Sleep tight in Sweet Campers who hire VWs from £275 for four nights. Olive, the campervan, is fully equipped for four sleeping guests. www.sweetcampers.com

DUNE DREAMS >> Camp out in the dunes and fall asleep to the sounds of crashing waves. The Bells of Hemscott is a pop-up campsite in the dunes near Druridge Bay in Northumberland with a canvas village that returns to farmland in September.

Perfect for some pure back-to-nature moments.

There are six bell tents (Daisy, Clover, Buttercup, Fleur, Samphire and Shore) with fire pits. The luxe factor comes in the form of wood-fired pizza and prosecco afternoon teas to order and a wood-fired hot tub! www.thebellsofhemscott.com

ART BREAK >> Art and Staithes have been connected forever and you can take in the romance with a stay at the Laura Knight Studio.

In the 1900s painter Laura Johnson (later Dame Laura Knight) was one of many artists who flocked to Staithes to paint its towering cliffs, wild seas and resilient fisherfolk.

Stay in the studio used by Laura and artist husband Harold Knight, a tiny cruck cottage with ships’ timber beams and thick stone walls, one of the oldest buildings in Staithes. www.staithesgallery.co.uk/laura-knight-studio/

COOL FOR SCHOOL >> School House in Sandsend brings loft-style living to traditional bucket-and-spade territory. The beach is a swift stroll away but you’ll love coming back to stylish interiors.

The character of this gorgeous building has been retained and given a 21st Century make-over. Elegant furniture sits against a pale backdrop, with dramatic dashes of colour and brooding seascapes thrown in. It’s a peaceful, bright and comfortable look. www.gorgeouscottages.com

SEA SPRAY DAYS >> Craster Waves does what is says on the box. The ultimate watch-the-waves coastal cool bolthole in Northumberland.

No prizes for guessing what’s on the menu for breakfast with the kipper house just around the corner. Stylish interiors and the best beach walks in the doorstep.

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Bring a gang and you can rent the adjoining Craster Rocks property. www.coastalretreats.co.uk

CLASSY CASTLE >> Take a morning stroll through the dunes to Bamburgh beach with its imposing castle backdrop. Luxe out in the gorgeous and super-stylish Castlegate holiday house where hunting lodge meets Riviera maison. An outstanding interior with details such as handcrafted stone fireplaces, log burning stoves and outdoor sun-trap patio. www.coastalretreats.co.uk

GRAND VIEW >> Pier Lane House is a lovely Georgian property with stunning sea views across the harbour, looking to the old town and the iconic Whitby Abbey. It sleeps 6 and has great outside space - garden, balcony and terrace. www.yorkshirecoastalcottages.com/search/property/pier_ lane_house

Further up the coast at North Berwick, The Lobster Shack is a charming little eaterie where you can sample beautiful lobster, succulent langoustine, sweet crab, meaty mussels and line-caught mackerel. www.lobstershack.co.uk

MACKEREL AHOY! Few things taste as good as fresh mackerel on a BBQ. This is how they do it at Swallow Fish in Seahouses.

BARBECUED MACKEREL WITH GINGER, CHILLI & LIME DRIZZLE >> Ingredients 3 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil 8 mackerel fillets For the drizzle 1 large red chilli, deseeded and finely chopped 1 small garlic clove, finely chopped Small knob fresh root ginger, finely chopped 2 tsp honey Finely grated zest and juice of 2 limes 1 tsp sesame oil 1 tsp Thai fish sauce

BAY WATCH >> Albion Hall is a converted church hall just a hop, skip and a jump from the very bottom of Robin Hood’s Bay, just around the corner from the fantastic cafés, bistros and shops. Inside find a hugely impressive open plan living space containing the living room, dining area and kitchen – a luxury of space almost unheard of in Robin Hood’s Bay. www.gorgeouscottages.com

SANDY STAY >> The name’s Beachside….because? A substantial Georgian house, tucked away off The Parade in posh Sandsend, yet with its own sea views. Heaps of period charm and the ultimate location to catch the sunrise with sand between your toes. www.yorkshirecoastalcottages.com

HARBOUR HIP >> In trendy North Berwick stop in style at Quartermaster’s House, directly across the road from the beach with sea views and a large south facing walled garden. The owners have tried to source everything for the house to be made in the UK, from the paint and the wallpaper on the walls, right through to the cutlery and china on the table. www.gonetothebeach.co.uk/north-berwick

Light the barbecue and allow the flames to die down until the ashes have gone white with heat. Make the drizzle by whisking 2 tbsp olive oil and all the other ingredients together in a small bowl, adjusting the ratio of honey and lime to make a sharp sweetness.

Season to taste.

Score each side of the mackerel fillet about 6 times, not quite through. Brush the fish with the remaining oil and season lightly.

Barbecue the mackerel for 4-5 mins on each side until the fish is charred. Spoon the drizzle over the fish and allow to stand for 2-3 mins before serving.

Serve with fresh crusty bread. www.swallowfish.co.uk/recipes

JUL/AUG15

ADVERTORIAL

Summer in South Tyneside From its breathtaking coastline, scenic walks, sparkling seas and rich history, South Tyneside warmly welcomes you to make some unforgettable moments!

If you’re looking for some unforgettable memories this summer head to South Tyneside - with a stunning coastline, a rich history and great attractions there’s something for everyone.

South Shields is the epitome of great British seaside resort; delicious ice-cream, fish and chips, the bright lights of fairground rides and golden soft sand.

Enjoy a lovely walk along the stunning new promenade and into South Marine Park, complete with a miniature steam train. While out and about, visit waterfront favourite Minchella’s to grab some famous local ice-cream, or take a stroll down Ocean Road and take a bite out of some award-winning Colman’s fish and chips. You’ll also find a huge selection of restaurants offering Indian, Thai and Italian favourites.

The coastline here is spectacular. It must be said that Marsden Bay is one of nature’s greatest gifts, with soaring cliffs, a beautiful bay and a haven for wildlife. Take a walk and enjoy some bird watching, or simply blow those cobwebs away and admire the view.

Here you will also find Souter Lighthouse – the first electric lighthouse in the world. See the machinery, engine room and climb to the top of the tower, it’s definitely worth the effort!

Not far from South Shields seafront sits Arbeia Roman Fort, which once protected the River Tyne. The reconstructions and excavated remains provide visitors with an insight into Roman Britain. Visit Jarrow and step through history at Bede’s World where the Venerable

Bede once lived nearby. The museum displays finds from the excavation at St. Paul’s monastery and gives an insight into Anglo-Saxon life.

For more culture take a visit to The Customs House where there are exhibitions, musicals and plays to enjoy or South Shields Museum & Art Gallery, where you can take a closer look at the town’s history and famous shipwrecked paintings.

South Shields riverside is the home to the Harton Quays

Park Craft Markets, every first Sunday of the month through to September, selling a wide range of local arts, prints, crafts, sweet treats, hand-made jewellery and much more. Also worth a browse are the quaint villages of Cleadon and Whitburn, which have a selection of unique, independent shops.

Set to the stunning backdrop of sandy beaches and spectacular soaring cliffs, South Tyneside really is the perfect place to make some happy memories.

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21

Jonas Gutierrez may have left Newcastle United but his hero status, personal and on the pitch, will be recognised at the lavish Spiderman fund-raising ball on Tyneside later this year. Jonas spoke to Ken Oxley about his cancer fight, his affection for the region and the honour of the awareness-raising event in his name

I’M NO SUPERHERO

SPIDERMAN STRIKES

He’s spent plenty of time showing his Spiderman persona to the world so when Jonas Gutierrez says “I’m no superhero”, there are a number of reasons why you beg to differ.

Today he might not have his lucky goal Spiderman mask tucked in his pants (we didn’t ask) but he is still equipped with the characteristics that have made him a hero in many people’s eyes, football fan or no.

The former Newcastle United midfielder Jonas says battling testicular cancer has made him a “better person”… and now he dreams of having a family.

The footballing star’s life was put on hold following the devastating diagnosis, forcing him to hang up

22

his boots for 17 months.

It was, he said, the toughest time of his life – but also a time when he learned a great deal about himself.

Jonas spoke to Luxe before jetting ‘home’ to Argentina at the end of June.

We met at his modest home (by Premier League standards), a short walk from Jesmond Dene.

With mixed feelings he prepared to leave the city that become his home. His time in the city and his profile following his cancer treatment made him a hero not only to NUFC fans but also to the wider footballing community who respected and admired his attitude to the game and to his illness.

One of the occasions when the picture became bigger than the game of football on the pitch.

Stoically, Jonas, 31, admitted of his cancer: “I’ve been lucky because it could have been much worse.

“The cancer was discovered almost by accident because I complained of pain in my groin area after I had been tackled

by Arsenal’s Bacary Sagna.

“My doctor told me that if it had been a year or two later, it could have been more difficult to treat.

“But that is life, and I believe it was an experience I had to go through. Life put the cancer in my way, and when something like that happens, well, it teaches you a lot, you know?

“And I think that, really, it made me a better person. Now I care more about the little things – things I never paid much attention to before.

“Because of the environment we are in as footballers, you

JUL/AUG15

SPIDERMAN STRIKES

You can maybe think that you are a superhero – that nothing can happen to you – but then something like cancer comes along and you learn that really, you are no different to anyone else

don’t normally think about little things – in football, everything is so massive and sometimes your head can be in the clouds.

Now that the dark days are behind him, Jonas is comfortable discussing his illness. Indeed, he regards it as important to

Life put cancer in my way, and that taught me a lot about myself do so, understanding that his remarkable recovery offers hope to others struck down with the disease.

However, he added: “People say to me ‘you are an example to us all’ but I am not an example. This was just something

JUL/AUG15

that happened to me, but if I can help others by talking about it, then of course I will do that.

“What I would say to anyone who finds themselves in the situation I did is that you have to remain strong and try to be positive at all times – you have to believe deep within yourself that you will be healthy again.”

At the outset, however, Jonas chose to keep his illness from his teammates – a decision he found difficult but necessary.

He explained: “It wasn’t easy, but at the time I felt it was something I had to go through on my own.

“If I had made it public before going through the chemotherapy I think it would have made it very hard for me to cope. The treatment makes you very tired and I would not have had the energy to talk about it.

“When I finally told the press, it was the right moment for

me because I was in the last period of my treatment and I was starting to feel better.”

Despite the shoddy way in which he was told his contract would not be renewed – in a phone call from the then head coach John Carver along with teammate Ryan Taylor – Jonas refuses to dwell on negatives.

Instead, he chooses to focus on the possibilities the future holds. Just hours before boarding a plane to Buenos Aires, he spoke of how much he was looking forward to catching up with family and friends back home… and to being reunited with his girlfriend, Argentine model and TV host Alejandra Maglietti.

“Right now I just want to enjoy time with my family and girlfriend,” he said. I don’t know for certain what I will be doing in the future, but I know I want to have a family. >>

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SPIDERMAN STRIKES

SCALE THE HEIGHTS >> The Spiderman Ball will be a sparkling fashion, sporting and entertainment highlight of the year.

It will be held at Hilton Hotel, Gateshead on November 24.

Hosted by Sky Sports presenter, Pete Graves, players from Chelsea will join their North East sporting counterparts to raise awareness of testicular cancer and raise vital funds for the charity Ballboys.

Fellow footballers such as Branislav Ivanovic and James Milner are showing their support and will join Newcastle defender Steven Taylor at the Ball.

“It was a massive boost to have Jonas around the place,” says Steven, pictured below.

“We never think about getting checked. But, when this happened to Jonas, I got checked straight away.

Someone like Jonas is a massive role model. He beat cancer and he’s given lots of other people the belief that they can beat it, too.”

That’s how I see myself five years from now. After that, who knows what?”

He also insists he has no regrets about the time he spent at St James’s Park and is looking forward to coming back to the city in November for the Spiderman Ball, an event named in his honour that will raise funds for Ballboys, the UK testicular cancer charity.

The Spiderman in the ball’s name is of course a reference to the Spiderman mask that Jonas sports when he scores a goal.

I come back for the charity ball, so I am looking forward to that.”

Jonas’ triumphant return to action after his illness saw him score the goal that triggered a collective sigh of relief across the city as Premier League status was secured.

It’s a memory he will treasure and take with him as he prepares for the next chapter in his life.

He said: “You could feel the fans were so nervous, so of course I was very pleased to get that goal.

“Even if I end up staying back in Argentina, I will continue

You’re not a superhero, and you’re not immune to the sorts of problems or illnesses other people have. You learn that football is just a job and that what is really important in life is your health “It was a dream for me to come to a club like Newcastle and it has been an amazing seven years,” he said.

“I never expected to be here so long and I am grateful for all the support the fans have given me. I have enjoyed living in the city and I will miss it a lot, although maybe not so much the weather!

“But I know the fans will give me a great reception when

24

to follow Newcastle. I will watch their games on the internet and I hope, for the fans, that they have a better season.”

And Jonas also revealed his fond memories of Newcastle’s famous hospitality are not all he’ll be taking home with him to Buenos Aires. He has acquired some of the lingo too.

“Whey aye man, canny lad,” he chirped in his best Geordie accent.

Ballboys aim to raise awareness and educate the population (not just the guys) on the facts, figures and issues surrounding testicular cancer as well as to provide easy access to resources, information and hands-on support for anyone who is concerned about or directly affected by testicular cancer.

The charity’s aim is to educate people on how to identify any potential problems at an early stage and what to do next if you are worried.

Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young men. It typically affects men between the age of 15 and 49.

If detected early it is a very treatable cancer and the survival rate is around 98%. Ballboys promotes the message that men should know how to check themselves, know the signs and symptoms of testicular cancer and then know what to do if they are concerned.

Rosie Colfer from the charity adds; “The purpose of Ballboys is to raise awareness. The Spiderman Ball is going to be a fantastic night and with support from the players and local businesses who can relate to Jonas’ story, it will really make a difference to helping more young men and fans.’’

For information on how you can be involved via sponsorship, donating prizes or buying tickets, contact spidermanball@ballboys.org.uk or visit www.thespidermanball.co.uk www.ballboys.org.uk Make a donation to Jonas and the Ballboys charity at the JustGiving page: www.justgiving.com/luxeballboys

JUL/AUG15

LUXE LIFE Sunday morning: wake up feeling dreadful from the night before suffering from tiredness or hungover then repeat as above.

Downtime means > I love my Xbox One, it’s awesome. I’m playing Batman Arkham Knight at the moment and it’s the greatest thing since sliced bread. This is the only true thing that helps me relax. It takes my focus away from everyday life and lets me enter a stupid inner world where you can, beat up bad guys, glide through a city and drive a Batmobile.

Best telly > Just finished Game of Thrones series 5, incredible.

Best book > I’m reading Iain Banks, Complicity, at the moment. A great train read if you are commuting. Really dark and gritty - not for the faint hearted.

Best sounds > Steely Dan. I always get asked this question and always give the same answer. I do have very eclectic taste, however there is something about this band that has grabbed my attention since I was a small child.

GREG COULSON Sunderland-born musician Greg Coulson is about to make his London theatrical debut in the much talked-about show ‘What’s it all about: Bacharach Reimagined’ featuring the works of the legendary Burt Bacharach at the Menier Chocolate Factory.

A multi-instrumentalist, songwriter and performer, Greg was brought up in Sunderland. In 2010 at just 19 he joined the legendary two-tone band, The Selecter and made more than 400 appearances including Coachella and Isle of Wight festivals LUXE PEOPLE >> I’ve always found people in general very inspiring. Family, friends and colleagues but I’ve spent the past few months scrutinising Bacharach for the show. Any musician/music lover can appreciate the level of composition within his songwriting. Each song is a wonderfully crafted story with a beginning, middle and end. Obviously we have Hal David to thank for the lyrical content but from a listening perspective, I just think these songs are beautiful creations that we don’t hear in the charts today.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > I’ve been touring with bands since I was 18, so I’ve been to some incredible places but I would have to say that for a weekend, I do like to travel back home to Sunderland - mainly to see my family, but there are some great sights to see and I like to head off to Alnmouth, Alnwick and Dunstanburgh which are really cool.

A long holiday > Europe. France is great, anywhere in Italy, Spain or even further north: Germany, Poland, Lithuania.

I recently spent three weeks in New York rehearsing for the show and loved it. It would be great to go back and actually spend some time sight-seeing as opposed to singing, dancing and playing all day long.

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A treat > I like going to my gran’s house which is ten minutes away - she make me cups of tea and has an endless supply of biscuits.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love food - I’d be fat if I wasn’t jumping up and down on a stage all the time. I’m really into salt beef sandwiches at the moment. WIAA is playing at the Menier, so I’m right by Borough Market in Southwark. A great place to eat if you are a foodie. They sell loads of cheese; I like cheese so I keep nipping over at lunch to steal the free samples.

Best wine > Not really into wine, I prefer beer and spirits. In fact, I’m trying to cut down on drinking whilst doing the run.

It’s physically intense so I’m scared to have one too many, turn up the next morning hungover, trying to get my footing right for a big dance extravaganza and failing miserably.

Favourite restaurant > My kitchen, when my girlfriend is in it, she’s a great cook.

Perfect weekend > Starting Saturday morning it goes like this: breakfast, coffee, Spotify, making the house look awesome, gardening, lunch (salt beef sandwich), cinema/TV series, pub (when not gigging or really cool venue if I am).

Then fall straight into bed.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I don’t really know the answer to this one. These days, everywhere is the same to me. I recently finished a UK Tour with The Selecter and found that every town/city we travelled to, the shops were exactly the same - Topman, H&M, Boots, HMV, the list goes on. I suppose, if I had to think about it, I’d say somewhere in eastern Europe like Krakow. A great selection of markets, far more interesting if you ask me.

Favourite shop > I love a guitar shop. It’s a guilty pleasure to go down to the local and talk to a muso nerd about what type of strings they have been using lately or what pedal will make me sound like Jimi Hendrix. Can I try this guitar for size but not actually buy it? This is one of the highlights of my week.

Luxe retail treat > I suppose this is another guilty pleasure, I often find myself in B&Q admiring the house plants the tall ones with big green leaves (I don’t know what they’re called!).

I was there the other day trying to make an incredibly difficult decision, whether to buy another? I suddenly realised that the shop was closing, felt rushed and could not decide on a plant. I eventually thought it best not to part with £19.97 and left the plant for another day.

Best buy > My Gretsch guitar. This is my signature guitar that I use for live performance and recording 100% of the time. I love it. It’s possibly one of the most beautiful things in the world. I could bore you with the specifications but let’s just say that it looks amazing and sounds beautiful. I flew it to NY recently and was slightly concerned for its wellbeing. You often hear about commercial airlines not taking proper care of instruments but thankfully this was not the case.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > I had some great nights out with The Selecter when we first started touring back in 2010. I was 19, significantly younger than the rest of the band who were averaging on an age of 40. I seem to remember forcing the rhythm section to drink several Jagerbombs at a club in Dublin. If memory serves me right we stayed up until 7am and nearly missed the flight home. Who says rock and roll is dead?

Perfect party > I love a good old fashioned BBQ. There’s something really masculine about grilling the hell out of a piece of meat on a hot summer’s day. It’s also an excuse to have a drink in your hand by 2pm.

Best outfit > I’m writing this in the dressing rooms of the Menier, currently wearing shorts, a T-shirt and some Nike trainers with huge wedges to stop my feet hurting when dancing.

If I’m trying to impress, I normally wear some kind of a suit, a well-fitted one. I’m also a huge lover of shoes, at the moment I’m wearing Dr Martens For Life boots, they’re great, the comfiest shoes ever!

Dinner date > I’m not really big on the whole dinner date thing. I’d probably do something really boring like go to an Italian restaurant, eat a big pizza, then afterwards, go to the cinema, watch a rubbish film surrounded by people eating too much (and too loudly) eventually, making me anxious and spoiling my experience.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Music is really important to me. I don’t know what I’d do without it.

It’s my career, my hobby, my life. I’m always really grateful to be a part of something so special. www.menierchocolatefactory.com

JUL/AUG15

LUXE LOVES A dry run The essential spirit of summer. Pack the Thermos and a tea towel made for beachy picnicking, ÂŁ10. www.coastalhome.co.uk

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JUL/AUG15

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eat

GARDEN DELIGHTS

Homegrown & gourmet

Wynyard Hall’s walled garden café and farm shop are due to open their doors, offering sustenance with style to visitors.

Katharine Capocci gets a taster of what’s to come and talks recipes with chef Mehdi Amiri Perched on the seating area of a water feature in Wynyard’s walled garden, Allison Antonopoulos is painting a very tasty vision for visitors to the estate’s new café, farm shop and deli.

“You can just picture it, sitting out here with the olive trees and a glass of prosecco!” says Allison, managing director of the four-star Wynyard Hall hotel and estate, as she gestures to the area of the visitor centre which will house the café and al fresco dining area.

Indeed, we can. And what a view it will be, over the estate’s new landmark gardens, which when complete will be home to Britain’s largest rose garden, a venture sown by Allison’s father, entrepreneur Sir John Hall, Wynyard Hall’s owner.

The garden is due to open alongside the visitor centre, which will house the café and farm shop, on August 4.

The farm shop and cafe is very much Allison’s vision, who put together the designs after visiting many similar garden projects. It will rival the likes of Daylesford’s classy farm shop/café offerings.

“Daylesford is my absolute favourite and Weetons and Harlow Carr in Harrogate were my inspiration.

“I wanted to create a light and airy space using fresh and relaxing colours by Farrow and Ball (the soft tones of Mizzle – a warm grey/green) with natural stone floors which complement the exterior oak building.

“The shop will be filled with wonderful products, and will include a gorgeous Italian range, and foods from local suppliers to include sausages, cheeses, puddings and stunning homeware, fresh plants, flowers and interesting books.

“Everything will be of the highest quality in terms of presentation and taste. Every single item that goes on the shelf has to be sampled.”

Allison laughs when she says this has involved much taste testing for her and new retail manager, Jayne Gray, who adds: “I go home thinking about sausages and wake up thinking about jam!”

Already the visitor centre has a wonderfully warm and inviting rustic feel that will tempt visitors to linger a while, all part of the offering of this destination attraction, which will link with entertainment in the gardens, including

plans for open-air theatre and live music.

The décor includes chunky farmhouse-style tables, large dressers and bookcases, large basketware and lots of pieces chosen from architectural salvage.

Allison says: “The visitor centre is the entrance to the gardens. You will arrive and come through a retail area and we have got cafe seating for about 90 inside and 90 outside, and you can purchase the roses you see here.

“The first table in the farm shop will be seasonal and will have produce like gorgeous strawberries, asparagus and strawberry jam and prosecco. The next table is an Italian section. We have been meeting some amazing Italian importers.”

The café, which will be overseen by Wynyard’s executive head chef Mehdi Amiri, will offer light dishes such as home-made sandwiches, salads, paninis and desserts and cakes, freshly prepared.

Mehdi is a chef who is inspired by fresh flavours, Mediterranean influences and seasonality of ingredients.

He has given us an inspirational preview of the style of dishes that will be on offer with these seasonal recipes.

It will be a food destination of its own with chefs creating menus for daytime and special events, ahead of the planned new cookery school and edible garden in the next phase of development.

Allison adds: “We want to get across this is just the beginning. It will be a whole four-year plan.”

Along with the sights and scents emanating from the rose garden, a feast for all the senses too. www.wynyardhall.co.uk

Everything will be of the highest quality in terms of presentation and taste. Every single item that goes on the shelf has to be sampled

Hay smoked organic feta with compressed watermelon and pickled vegetables Ingredients 100g organic feta 120g watermelon 2 x baby carrots (top also) 50g x fresh mint 1/2 x pomegranate 200g hay

Method Place hay in a small deep tray then place the organic feta in perforated tray sitting over the hay.

Burn the hay and then cling film for 8 minutes.

After smoking process has been completed chill for up to 2 hours.

Place baby carrots in a small pan, add water, sherry vinegar, star anise and warm gently. Once the carrots are cooked but still retain a firm texture, drain and refrigerate.

Peel and dice watermelon, pick mint and deseed pomegranate.

Mix all ingredients in a bowl, crumble smoked feta and serve.

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JUL/AUG15

GARDEN DELIGHTS

Miso marinated tuna and grilled king prawn salad and burnt avocado Ingredients 100g tuna fresh 3 x king prawns 3 x rainbow radishes 50g bean shoots 50g red Miso paste 50ml Mirin 1 x red chilli 20g fresh ginger 1 x avocado 1 x lime leaf 40g demerara sugar 50g fresh coriander MARINADE Gently warm: Chillies Ginger Miso paste Mirin Lime leaf Demerara sugar After sugar has dissolved drain liquor through a fine sieve and cool.

Portion tuna and place in marinade for 24 hours.

Roast peeled avocado in a dry pan until golden brown.

Season and blend to a smooth consistency whilst adding the fresh coriander and a touch of lemon juice.

To serve Make a salad of bean shoots, fresh avocado and radishes. Place the salad on top of the burnt avocado puree. Grill prawns and tuna then sit on top of the salad. Use the cooking juices as dressing for the salad.

Blackberry Parfait

middletonlodge.co.uk

01325 377977

Ingredients PARFAIT 300g sugar 250g egg yolk Whisk together over bain marie 121c 500g fresh blackberry puree 750ml semi whipped cream 1 x pipette of blackberry essence Fold both mixtures together and pour into desired moulds then freeze for 24 hours.

BLACKBERRY TUILLE 150g melted butter 300g icing sugar 250ml orange juice 100ml blackberry puree 300g sieved plain flour Mix all ingredients together and spread thinly over silicone mat. Bake at 120c for 30 minutes.

Remove parfait from moulds, serve with toasted granola, fresh berries and garnish with blackberry biscuits.

Photo courtesy of Gary Walsh

THE TREATMENT GEORGIAN ROOMS AT THEATRE PACKAGE MIDDLETON LODGE Middleton Lodge and The Coach House are delighted to have teamed up with IS NOW OPEN The Georgian Theatre Royal, Richmond We have a full menu of massages, body wraps, and facials, and we have selected natural, sustainable and organic products so you know you are doing both yourself and the environment good at the same time.

We will be using REN and VOYA in the treatment rooms, which will also be available to purchase in the shop.

Please call 01325 377977 or treatments@middletonlodge.co.uk

to offer a Theatre, Lunch/Dinner, B&B package.

Globe Theatre on tour presents ‘Much Ado About Nothing’.

Package is priced at £200 and includes DB&B and 2 theatre tickets (based upon double occupancy).

Our package is available on Wednesday 2nd and Thursday 3rd September for the evening performance and Thursday 3rd for the matinee performance.

SUMMER TERRACE MENU & MARKET MENUS The Coach House has just introduced our new Summer Terrace menu which is available during lunch and as an early bird menu between 6pm - 7pm Wednesday to Friday. Relaxed alfresco dining with a casual menu, perfect on a summers day with a glass of wine.

Our Market Menu has returned offering a seasonal set menu of either 2 or 3 courses, this is available during lunch and dinner Wednesday – Saturday.

ALL OUR EVENTS ARE AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE AS VOUCHERS MAKING THE PERFECT GIFT FOR SOMEONE SPECIAL TO BOOK or for details of future events please call reception to book on 01325 377977 or email info@middletonlodge.co.uk K n e e t o n L a n e , M i d d l e t o n Ty a s , R i c h m o n d , N o r t h Yo r k s h i r e , D L 1 0 6 N J

JUL/AUG15

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FEAST DAYS

Chef’s table

with James Close, head chef at the region’s only Michelin star restaurant, The Raby Hunt, Summerhouse

I spent a couple of days in London for the National Restaurant Awards 2015 where we were proud to be named No 51 in the list of 100 restaurants.

That felt like a good achievement for the North East – and House of Tides in Newcastle was also on the list at 62.

We were happy to celebrate on the region’s behalf! The event was held at the Hurlingham Club and I spent some time meeting up with some interesting people including chefs Andrew Fairlie from Gleneagles, Rick Stein and Tom Sellars of Story restaurant.

1. Barrafina Adelaide Street, London (National Restaurant and Best Spanish Restaurant) 2. The Sportsman, Seasalter, Kent (Gastropub of the Year) 3. The Ledbury, London 4. Gymkhana, London (Best Indian Restaurant) 5. The Hand & Flowers, Marlow, Buckinghamshire 6. Lyle’s, London 7. L’Enclume, Cartmel, Cumbria 8. Restaurant Sat Bains, Nottingham 9. The Dairy, London 10. Restaurant Gordon Ramsay, London (Highest Climber) See the list at: www. nationalrestaurantawards.co.uk

TO THE POINT >> We’ve teamed up with bespoke knife-maker Stuart Mitchell who is a real craftsman.

He’s a rare breed in his own right, a knife maker who is making us some unique Raby Hunt ‘hunter-gatherer’ knives – in their own pouches – which will add some drama to the dining experience!

His designs are real works of art and combine exquisite shape and feel with quality and the heritage of steel.

ON TOUR >> My London food-finding jaunt took me and my dad to Locanda Locatelli, a favourite place for years for me and my dad – he loves the grappa trolley – we visited it this time but to a lesser extent than we have in the past!

Stand-out dishes included swordfish and linguine and a de-constructed tiramisu.

Outstanding selection of breads to choose from too – eight varieties, excellent.

We headed for Joel Robuchon and sat up at the chef’s counter to eat small plates – memorable veal shank gyoza and foie gras burgers.

And we made a stop for sushi at the very dramatic Sushi Samba where they got wind that we were Michelin star holders and basically sent out the entire menu for us to try. The awesome sashimi plate was memorable – yellowfin tuna, salmon and scallop.

Yellowfin tuna was served with black truffle and was a standout dish. We had wagyu beef salmon ceviche with foie gras.

ON THE BEACH >> Closer to home, we’ve been out to the Northumberland coast and ate at Mizen

Samphire, sea asters and sea spinach are a seaside wander on a plate

sharp salty-iron flavour.

I am using it with a dish of saltmarsh lamb – they are perfect together. I’ve also found sea spinach and some succulent sea asters which will be finding their way to menus.

These are such great seasonal additions to the menu, a seaside wander on the plate.

Head near Bamburgh.

They have the same wine supplier as we do and we enjoyed a great crisp Touraine with Lindisfarne oysters and lobster thermidor which is about as good as it gets when it comes to local produce!

SAMPHIRE SECRETS >> I have been scouring the seashore foraging for some good sea vegetables to add to dishes at Raby Hunt. I found some samphire on the beaches near Redcar (I’m not going to be too specific) which I love to use – it is so packed with that unique

FROND MOMENTS >>

Barrafina, Adelaide Street, London, was named the restaurant of the year and I made a point of heading there to eat.

Sam and Eddie Hart’s restaurant opened less than a year ago. They’re doing something very right to earn the approval of the 150 industry experts who vote in these awards.

At Barrafina I ate a rabbit shoulder dish with olives which was superb and some mighty red prawns.

This was the UK top ten if you’re one of those people who likes to tick them off…

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We’re enjoying cooking with fennel at the minute – a great summery vegetable and herb.

We’ve got a new dessert which teams licorice, fennel and acidic raspberries with a sheep’s yoghurt and fennel ice-cream.

BIB GOURMAND WITH HARRIETT CLOSE >> I am getting good at travelling to that very big London place. I like the train and I like great big taxis. I also like getting dressed up, having my hair brushed and eating sweet things in posh places. My new favourite thing is eating pretty coloured chewy macarons in a place called Harrods. I am so very good at it.

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GORGEOUS GREENS

Eat Seasonal WITH ANDREW WILKINSON OF ARTISAN

Putting summer on a plate with the freshest ingredients

Summer is one of my personal highlights as a chef, thanks to the abundance of fresh produce that’s available on our doorstep.

There’s nothing better than using home-grown ingredients in your recipes and this summer, I am looking forward to harvesting my pea plants and using fresh elderflowers in my homemade cordials.

It’s also the best time of year for foraging and our forager Andy Young supplies us with freshly-picked wild mint, watercress, girolles and mushrooms. It’s no surprise that we decided to focus our recent seasonal showcase event on these gems.

Taking inspiration from our region’s meadows and hedgerows, we used a diverse range of ingredients to complement and enhance dishes such as saddle of rabbit and wild salmon.

For a true taste of summer – and a nod to the produce that’s growing in my own garden – I’m sharing with you a simple but delicious dish that features English peas as its star ingredient, together with a sea trout recipe that uses fennel, shallots and basil to create a delicate, balanced plate, perfect for dining al fresco.

Don’t forget, we’re always crafting new menus here at artisan that show off the finest regional produce, so be sure to pop in over the summer to sample our seasonal flavour combinations for yourself.

Sea Trout Ingredients

4 x 150g fillets of sea trout

FOR THE BRAISED FENNEL 4 x fennel Chicken stock

FOR THE TAPENADE 300g black olives 2 x garlic cloves 4 x anchovies Basil Olive oil

FOR THE SAUCE VIERGE 1 x garlic clove finely sliced 200ml olive oil 2 x shallots finely diced 1 x tsp toasted coriander seeds 50ml white wine vinegar

Method BRAISED FENNEL Cut the fennel lengthways into slices.

Melt the butter in a pan, add the fennel and then caramelise.

Once caramelised, add the chicken stock and braise until cooked.

TAPENADE In a mixing bowl, add the olives, garlic, anchovies, basil, salt and pepper and blitz.

While blitzing, add the olive oil until the mix has reached a paste-like texture.

SAUCE VIERGE Sweat off the shallots and garlic without colour.

Next, add toasted coriander seeds and white wine vinegar.

Continue to cook until the vinegar has reduced and add the olive oil.

Finish with chopped cherry tomatoes and finely chopped basil.

Assemble Spread a little tapenade onto each plate and place the braised fennel on top. Add the pan-roasted trout (cooked at 180 degrees for four minutes).

Garnish with sea vegetables and sauce vierge.

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Pea Cream Serves 4 Ingredients

Method

335g English peas 300ml chicken stock 50ml cream 20g caster sugar 8g salt 130g butter

Bring all the ingredients up to the boil, blitz and pass through a sieve.

Set the mixture aside to cool.

While it’s cooling, weigh the mix. For every 400g of pea cream, add 3/4 of a gelatine leaf.

Pour the liquid into your desired moulds, allow it to set and then serve.

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GASTRO JOURNEY

Nott a bad food journey

>> Gourmet delights at Delilah Fine Foods deli

Posh pies and Stilton take their place in the local produce picnic basket in Nottinghamshire.

Katharine Capocci savours a gastronomic journey of discovery on a foodie trip to the Midlands

I’ve long been a fan of the city of Nottingham having spent three disreputable years at uni there, supposedly studying geography.

Back in the day, it was the city’s pubs and inns that caught my eye – Ye Olde Trip to Jerusalem and the cavernous students’ union bar being particular favourites.

And when it came to food, culinary highlights on the menu in our shared house included the predictable beans on toast, and exotic-for-the-time couscous.

So an invite to sample the finer foodie delights of the city and its surrounds really whetted my appetite now that I’m all

is to mooch about your rooms savouring the experience, but it was mid-afternoon and lunch beckoned. We popped in to the nearby Crafty Crow bar and restaurant, one minute’s walk from our hotel. A large sharing platter of delicious goodies – locally-sourced cheeses, including Colston Bassett Blue, meats and the most delicious home-baked beer bread, oatcakes and mixed olives – made for a delightful pick-and-mix. The Magpie Brewery’s tap house, it flies the flag for beer-food pairing and champions small-batch independent food and drink producers. A glass of English Three Choirs wine slipped down very easily, while my other half supped Summer Visitor brew.

The legendary drinking haunt of Ye Olde Trip

follow was tangy and creamy.

Nottingham is a vibrant city with much in the way of cultural offerings too, and it’s fairly compact so you can pretty much see everything on foot.

The next day we took a stroll across the town over the market square and had breakfast at Delilah Fine Foods deli, a 10-minute walk away. Recently awarded the Local Gem accolade in the Good Food Guide, the multi-award-winning foodie emporium is one cool place, occupying a stunning building, once home to an HSBC bank.

Delilah’s is an independent fine food and wine merchant situated on Victoria Street, sandwiched between trendy Bridlesmith Gate and the Lace Market/Hockley. It’s well worth seeking out and is run by a dedicated team of foodies, serious about good food and drink.

My home-made granola served with natural yoghurt and organic honey was a quality offering and made for a healthy start to the day. Across the table, the Delilah gourmet

landmark Ye Olde Bell Hotel and Restaurant, at Barnby Moor, Retford, was special as we got to sample some seriously skilful cooking.

Roasted figs starter stuffed with Brie, leaf salad and red wine reduction and scallops with squash puree, crispy pancetta and chilli oil, a case in point.

Mains of venison loin with black pudding, and damson jus, and seared monkfish tail with samphire, lemon mash and olive tapenade were both excellent and rounded off a very indulgent foodie weekend.

The 17th century coaching inn is situated on the borders of Notts, Lincolns and Yorkshire so there’s much to explore on the rural doorstep.

A break from food was in order – and a trip to the Harley Gallery on the Welbeck Estate is highly recommended if you’re in the vicinity.

The gallery is home to the historic Portland Collection of fine and decorative art, accompanied by exhibitions from leading contemporary artists.

>> Savour the flavours: Bramley apple martini; gastro treats on offer at Fothergills; penthouse suite at the boutique St James Hotel in Nottingham grown-up and love good food and wines.

The city certainly has a great reputation for its quality gastro offerings – and even its own Michelin-starred restaurant, the legendary Sat Bains. Sadly, I left it too late for a weekend booking on this occasion.

We checked into the St James Hotel, an independent chic boutique hotel in a central location, perfect for exploring the city on foot.

Our penthouse suite really had the wow factor and is said to be the choice of visiting celebrities. It’s such a stylish retreat so it’s easy to see why. It comes with dining room, burr walnut floors, Jacuzzi, The White Company toiletries and baby grand piano, making it a very luxe affair indeed. These are rooms with some views - Nottingham Castle and the city’s skyline among them.

When your hotel’s so inviting the temptation

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to Jerusalem is just a few minutes’ walk away so a stroll down memory lane and mooch about the cosy confines of this characterful pub was in order. Thought to be the oldest inn in England, and dating back to 1189 AD, we were given a guided tour of the ancient hostelry and its clammy cellars occupying atmospheric caves.

Dinner that night at Fothergills pub and bistro on Castle Road offered views of the city’s famed Robin Hood statue which stands in the shadow of Nottingham Castle. Its stripped-back, relaxed interiors and bistro-style food using ingredients from local producers are clearly a hit with the locals.

Our dishes were just delicious: pan-roasted cod loin served on pea and mint risotto and freshly-steamed mussels in creamy madras sauce with chunky rustic chips, were both standout meals. Lemon posset to

breakfast of Boston sausage, Italian pancetta, Lincolnshire black pudding, local fried eggs and all the trimmings, similarly went down a treat. We also had a great bird’s eye view from the first-floor dining area of the deli below.

Later that day, more gourmet sampling was on the menu as we’d coincided our trip with the excellent Festival of Food & Drink weekend at Clumber Park in Worksop, a National Trust venue about a 50-minute drive out of the city.

The food and drink exhibitors’ marquee was impressive with plenty of local and lovely offerings such as pies from Melton Mowbray, Stilton and plenty of good local brews.

The cookery theatre featured a host of celebrity chefs including Phil Vickery from TV’s This Morning.

That night a memorable dinner at the

Situated on the ducal estate of Welbeck in North Notts, the three gallery spaces at The Harley show exhibitions of top quality contemporary visual art and craft which change five times a year. It’s a light and bright space, the perfect backdrop for the artwork.

On a mooch around, we did spy a fab looking eaterie next door – the Lime Tree Café – but we really couldn’t even contemplate!

More gourmet places on the list for next time.

St James Hotel, Rutland Street, Nottingham, NG1 6EB. www.stjames-hotel.com Ye Olde Bell Hotel & Restaurant, Barnby Moor, Retford, Notts, DN22 8QS. www.yeoldebell-hotel.co.uk www.experiencenottinghamshire.com

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ANYONE FOR TEA?

Take 2

So much more than a cuppa. Picnic inspiration from the humble tea-bag

Summer’s all about afternoon tea and Pimm’s in the garden.

These recipes are inspired by North East tea heroes Ringtons which was established over 100 years ago in Heaton.

Kelly Richardson, executive chef at Fenwick Newcastle, has created these luscious recipes using Ringtons tea, to add a modern twist to the traditional pastime of afternoon tea.

For summer Ringtons has launched a limited tea blend.

Ringtons Strawberries and Cream Infusions Tea which is used in this Strawberry Pimm’s recipe below.

FOR THE DRESSING 2 tsp rapeseed oil 1 lemon, for zest and juice 10g horseradish 50g clotted cream

TO SERVE

Fresh and fragrant, this garden party essential is perfect served as a summer canapé.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes Serves: 4

Ingredients FOR THE SALMON 200g salmon steak or fillet 8 Ringtons Earl Grey tea bags 2 tsp rapeseed oil Handful of hickory smoked chips Sea salt

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Combine this much loved summer tipple with iced strawberry tea to make a deliciously refreshing drink.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Serves: 4-6

Canapé blinis

Method

Ringtons Earl Grey Smoked Salmon with Lemon & Horseradish

Ringtons Strawberry Iced Tea Pimm’s

Preheat oven to 170C / Gas Mark 3.

Firstly make the dressing by whisking together the oil, lemon juice and horseradish, in a small bowl. Mix in the clotted cream to combine. Season with salt and pepper.

Reserve the lemon zest for garnish.

For the salmon, place the opened tea bags and hickory wood chips on a tray. Place in the oven and turn the heat down to low. Cook for 5 minutes or when the wood chips and tea start to singe.

Place the salmon on top of the wood chips and tea. Drizzle the oil and add the salt and cover with foil. Place in the oven for 20 minutes until just pink.

Remove from oven and allow to cool before gently removing the salmon from the tray. Flake the cold salmon.

To serve, place the cold salmon on top of the canapé blinis.

Spoon on the horseradish lemon cream and sprinkle with the reserved lemon zest.

Ingredients 6 Ringtons limited edition strawberry and cream tea bags A handful of fresh mint sprigs Juice of 2 large lemons, plus slices to serve 100g caster sugar 400ml Pimm’s special edition strawberry with a hint of mint Slices of strawberry and orange to serve Plenty of ice

Method Place the tea bags and half of the mint into a large jug.

Pour in 1.2 litres of boiling water and stir. Leave to infuse for 10 minutes before removing the tea bags and stirring in the sugar. Leave to cool.

Once this has cooled, remove the mint, add the lemon juice and the Pimm’s and put into the fridge to chill thoroughly.

Serve in tall glasses over plenty of ice, with slices of orange, lemon and strawberry, and the rest of the mint sprigs.

Sit back, relax and enjoy!

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PIG OUT

Off duty WITH DAVE COULSON

Whether you’re making dinner, a romantic meal or hosting friends or family, this dish is perfect for any occasion. Iberico pork is delicious and this recipe is a great way to serve such a fantastic meat

Iberico Pork >> Serves 4 Ingredients 1kg Iberico pork - Pluma 250g brown rice 1 litre vegetable oil 50g diced chorizo 50g diced squid body 50g sliced asparagus 50g shelled broad beans 50g peas 100g tarragon 1 pint of cream 3 gelatine leaves 1 star anise 500g veal stock

Method First infuse the cream with star anise for 10 minutes In a blender, whizz the tarragon and add the cream, discarding the anise.

Blend together for three minutes.

Bloom the gelatine and add to the pan.

Return to the pan and cook for two minutes.

Put the mixture into moulds - I used an ice cube mould, but any shape would work.

Warm the vegetable oil to 220c.

Add brown rice bit by bit until it is all cooked; it takes seconds to cook but be careful as it gets VERY hot. Reduce the veal stock to sauce consistency.

Add chorizo, squid and greens and hold until cooked.

Fry the pork in a hot pan with olive oil three minutes either side and leave to rest.

Assemble as shown and enjoy Dave is head chef and business partner at Peace&Loaf, 217 Jesmond Road, Newcastle, NE2 1LA. Tel: 0191 2815222 www.peaceandloaf.co.uk

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SUPPER CLUB

Summer food fling

Flavours of summer took centre stage at a Luxe Supper Club at Windows on the Tyne

The views are worthy of a course of their own, especially on a dazzlingly bright summer evening.

Windows on the Tyne at the Hilton Hotel, Newcastle Gateshead pretty much has pole position when it comes to location. Vast windows frame a waterside and cityscape view and the magnificent Tyne Bridge makes for a dramatic backdrop to your evening.

Our showcase gourmet evening started in some style with drinks and canapés at the fifth floor executive lounge where you need to do little more than gasp at that fine view.

Locals might not have made the most of this gem of a hotel yet, thinking it’s for dressy functions and out of town stays but the whispers are spreading and increasing numbers are gathering for the popular afternoon teas and cocktails which come with that view.

Supper Club is about showcasing the skills of the kitchen and inspirational, seasonal ingredients.

Chef Micky Nosk served up a six-course dinner with courses full of wit, style and detail.

Starter was a timbale of salmon rillette with pickled cucumber and radish.

A coarse pate-style mound of mixed smoked and fresh salmon was soft and sweet beneath a layer of rich and decadent seasoned butter.

The sharp slithers of pickled cucumber and perky radish

Vast windows frame a waterside and cityscape view and the magnificent Tyne Bridge makes for a dramatic backdrop were the ideal fresh counter to the richness of the rillette.

We ate this with a well-chosen crisp Sancerre before moving on to the next course, a silky and sweet butternut squash soup, bold in colour and taste, a mouthful of intense flavour with a crunch of toasted pumpkin seeds on top.

The main meat course was canon of lamb served beautifully pink with a traditional accompaniment of ratatouille of vegetables, those summery Provencal favourites of tomatoes and peppers. Adding a summery green flash to the plate was a soft frothy pea mousse and some bite-perfect asparagus. Fondant potatoes, one of those dishes that only seems to work in a restaurant, invited your knife to glide through with ease.

The perfect wine pairing for this dish – Chateauneuf du Pape, borne from sunny soil matched the Med flavours perfectly.

Our dinner was followed by a zesty apple trio. This brought to the table a try-me platter of dessert pleasure featuring a mini apple and cinnamon cheesecake, apple crumble

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and hit your senses green apple sorbet.

Then rounding off the summer experience on a plate, a - probably unwise - cocktail of elderflower liqueur, champagne, gin and strawberries. Naughty but so nice.

Windows on the Tyne Restaurant Hilton Hotel Newcastle Gateshead www.hilton.com/newcastle

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DIP DEEP

Masterclass WITH TERRY LAYBOURNE

Summer doesn’t have to be all about salads. Bubble&Squeak with the freshest gourmet greens makes for a comforting supper or sociable brunch any time. Add your favourite sauce and luscious duck eggs for the ultimate combination

Bubble & Squeak (Serves 4) 225g

225g their 150g

150g 100g 1 1 2 1 2 1

Jersey potatoes, baked in their skins and allowed to cool Maris Piper potatoes, baked in skins and allowed to cool Hispi cabbage (cooked and refreshed) Peas (cooked and refreshed) Asparagus (cooked) Onion Bulb fennel Tblsp chopped dill Tblsp chopped mint Tblsp chives Tblsp English mustard Salt Pepper

1 Bake the potatoes on a bed of salt until tender, remove from the oven & allow to cool

2 Cut the onion and fennel bulb into 1cm dice, sweat with butter and a good pinch of salt until translucent. Remove and drain well.

Allow to cool

3 Shred the cabbage, asparagus, peas and herbs coarsely

4 Roughly dice the potatoes and stir in the onion and fennel mixture

Bubble & Squeak, Fried Duck Eggs & HP Sauce

5 Stir in the vegetables and herbs

7 Form into patties and shape with a palette knife

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6 Add the mustard and seasoning to taste

8 Cook over a medium heat until crisp and golden either side and put through a medium oven (160C) for 10 minutes or until hot throughout

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THE GARDEN’S LOVELY

Veg patch WITH KAREN PHILLIPS

Gardening in the North requires a stern resolve when frost in mid-June isn’t kind to your courgettes and nips at the tops of your potatoes. It’s enough to test the keenest gardener UPCOMING EVENTS @ WIDEHAUGH HOUSE

RICH PICKINGS >> Apricots: When clients complain that a certain plant never flowers for them I tell them: ‘give it a severe talking to and if necessary threaten to dig it up’; it rarely fails. I had ‘told’ my 12ft apricot tree in the greenhouse that I would not be planting another in the new greenhouse when we move since hand pollinating it with my ‘Bobbi Brown’ make-up brush in January and then getting only two fruits was not worth all the effort; hence no hand-pollination took place this January and now a large crop of beautiful apricots are my pride and joy.

Picking a sun-warmed apricot straight from the tree in Northumberland is pure pleasure.

Pak choi: This is one of the speediest crops you can grow and the perfect way to maximise space in the veg plot as an ‘intercrop’ sown in the large expanse of bare earth between purple sprouting broccoli or any winter brassica crop that requires 60cm of space around each plant. The pak choi is harvested at 6 weeks, well before the canopy of the brassicas covers it.

Dill: This herb is one of the first to turn to ‘mush’ in the salad drawer so having a plentiful supply to pick fresh avoids that green slime lucky dip! A variety called ‘Dukat’ produces more abundant foliage than other varieties before running to seed.

Sprinkled over feta cheese to be baked in the oven; adorning smoked salmon blinis or featuring in pickles for the larder: this is one herb that I wouldn’t be without.

Beetroot: The brilliant florist, Hannah from ‘Wildflower’ sent me the wonderful recipe book ‘Polpo’ as a thank you and I was salivating like a dog at dinnertime just perusing the pictures! The ruby slices of their beetroot-cured salmon is a beauty to behold.

JOBS OUTSIDE >> Now is the perfect time to sow those crops that will see you through to spring.

Florence Fennel – this expensive bulbous vegetable that adds an aniseed bite to salads, is a doddle to grow.

Spinach – this year I’m trying Viroflex Giant Winter Spinach.

Lamb’s Lettuce – this delicate salad leaf unbelievably withstands all that winter will throw at it.

Radish Runder Schwarzer – this blackskinned, crisp round winter radish stores well and will add some spice and colour to autumn/winter salads.

NASTURTIUMS >> Nasturtiums are worth their weight in gold in the veg patch: use Nasturtium leaves and flowers to add a colourful and spicy bite to summer salads; indeed in the past they were

CHUTNEY & CHILLI JAM >> SEPTEMBER Worked hard all summer and want to preserve a little bit of that sunshine for the cold winter months? On this practical workshop you’ll learn the art of making jams, chutneys, preserves, liqueurs and relishes; and depart with jars of your handmade goodies at the end of the day.

THE VIRGIN GARDENER >> SEPTEMBER First house / first garden – daunted?

Don’t be. This intensive course will give you the confidence to start a garden from scratch or adapt an inherited one to suit your style.

BREAD BASICS >> LATE SEPTEMBER called ‘nose-tweakers’!

Pickle the young green seedpods as a cheaper alternative to capers and use them to make a mean nasturtium tartare sauce.

PICKLED ‘NOSE-TWEAKERS’ >> Only use the young green seedpods, if they have gone yellow/brown they will be tough once pickled.

Dissolve 1 tbsp sea salt in 300ml water; add the seedpods and leave covered for 24 hours.

The next day drain & dry the seedpods then pack into sterilised jars.

Top up with distilled malt vinegar/white wine vinegar and seal the jars with vinegar-proof lids i.e. the metal is covered with a white plastic coating.

Store in a cool, dark place for a month before eating; then use within the year.

THE BEST CULINARY PLUMS >> A recent request from chef Terry Laybourne for a plum tree of his favoured culinary plum ‘Quetsche’ sparked a request via twitter from a lovely Bavarian lady wanting to plant her native Zwetschgen Plum in order to make her grandmother’s plum cake. After the taste, the best culinary attribute of this plum is the free stone i.e. it comes away cleanly from the flesh so no cutting is necessary. After lengthy research and chats with the fruit growers it turned out that ‘Zwetschgen’ and ‘Quetsche’ are the same varieties, just named to attract different nationalities. Just in case I have planted one of each and wait eagerly for 12 plums to appear in order to make plum dumplings.

Zwetschgenknodel: For 12 dumplings: 20g fresh yeast or 2tsp of dried yeast

Picking a sun-warmed apricot straight from the tree in Northumberland is pure pleasure

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150ml lukewarm milk 250g plain flour pinch of sea salt 3 tbsp. caster sugar 1 egg yolk 25g melted butter, cooled extra plain flour 12 plums, preferably Zwetschgen/Quetsche sugar cubes clean linen teatowel melted butter to brush the teatowel and to serve.

Put the flour into a mixing bowl, make a well in the centre and add the lukewarm milk and fresh yeast/dried yeast. Stir and leave covered for 15 minutes until bubbly.

Add all the other ingredients except the plums and mix by hand/machine adding extra flour as required, until the dough comes cleanly away from the bowl. Leave covered in a warm place for 30 minutes.

Meanwhile de-stone the plums by slicing carefully on one side and slipping out the stone whilst still leaving the two plum halves attached. Boil a clean teatowel in simmering water for 5 minutes to remove any washing powder residue then rinse in cold water and wring out.

Fill a large pan 1/3 full of water and suspend the teatowel over the water (so it is not touching since the dumplings are steamed not boiled) and secure by knotting around the rim of the pan. Brush the teatowel with melted butter.

Knead the dough, divide into 12 pieces and form flat discs. Place a plum on top of the disc and pop a sugar cube inside the plum before pulling up the sides of the dough to form a neat dumpling, ensuring that the plum is completely covered to retain all the juice when cooking.

Bring the water in the pan to a boil and place a few dumplings side by side in the teatowel (not on top of each other), pop on the pan lid and steam over a medium heat for 10-15 minutes until cooked.

Remove the dumplings and drizzle with melted butter and vanilla caster sugar.

This hands-on course discovers the pleasures of breadmaking from sourdough through to focaccia, via quick breads and the perfect baps for bacon and egg butties!

Depart with recipes, your own warm, hand-made breads and your very own sourdough starter.

ANNUAL BULB SALE >> FRI 2ND & SAT 3RD OCTOBER Spend a relaxing morning over coffee and cake at Widehaugh House whilst choosing which beautiful bulbs will adorn your garden this spring: will it be stripy tulips, delicate narcissi or towering alliums. Planting advice on bulb choice and colour combinations is readily available.

BULBS, GLORIOUS BULBS >> OCTOBER Pots of stripy parrot tulips, snowdrops in the depths of winter, geraniumscented daffs, a narcissus named ‘poeticus’, deep blue camassia cut for the table, alliums exploding like fireworks, snakeshead frittilaries, dramatic lilies, shocking pink nerines – bulbs span the seasons and no matter what your soil type there are varieties suitable for your garden that will add interest at any time of year.

Bring along a favourite pot/container on this day workshop and you’ll depart with it fully planted ready for a stunning spring display.

Details and booking: www.widehaughhouse.co.uk

LOOKING AHEAD >> Next issue we’ll be storing veg in a ‘clamp’ and sifting through our growing seed collection to select our ‘top 10 desert island seeds’.

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SHAPE UP

Michael by Michael Kors Stud Yoke Chain Belt Mid-Length Dress, £183.99, Psyche

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SHAPE UP

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AK M E UR ES CT YL RU ST ST N D SO AN EA S E AP EW SH N H IN IT W ENT NG M RI ATE DA ST A

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MSGM Leather-Effect Top and Skirt, Beige. Top £155, Skirt £199, Fenwick Paula Sandal, LKBennett, £235, Fenwick MCQ Clutch Bag, £360, Fenwick

XXXXXXXX

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Michael by Michael Kors Nezla Long Sleeved Printed Tunic Dress, ÂŁ153.99, Psyche

SHAPE UP

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SHAPE UP

Joseph Yellow dress, £325, Fenwick

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Ted Ba ker

Print Patent ed Jumpsuit, £ Metal Trim C 50, Have to ourt S L hoes, £ove 108

.99, Ps y c he

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Belted Sleeveless Coat, Taupe, ÂŁ55, Have to Love

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SHAPE UP

FASHION CREDITS

Photography: Kev Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk Model: Beth Cruddace www.tyneteesmodels.co.uk Styling: Fiona McLain Hair&Make-up: Victoria Forshaw www.pinspetalspowder.co.uk

STOCKISTS

Fenwick, Newcastle www.fenwick.co.uk Have to Love, Hawthorn Road, Gosforth www.havetolove.com Psyche, Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough www.psyche.co.uk

LOCATION

With thanks to Hotel du Vin, Newcastle where interior shots were taken.www.hotelduvin.com/newcastle

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LABELS TO LOVE

TREND WATCH As new season fashion pieces begin to arrive in store it seems clear to me that the buzzwords for AW15 are ‘cool’, ‘contemporary’ and ‘minimal’ high-waisted ball gown style skirt, so this label definitely ticks the versatile box!

Denim days >> Victoria Beckham denim top, £245

SPORTMAX If you want to do minimal and cool in an elegant way then this is the label for you.

The brand’s AW15 collection is full of sophisticated two pieces, tailored coats and chic dresses in block colours. Look out for their broken-hem peplum tops in navy and oxblood red with matching pencil skirts.

This fashion-forward style can be dressed up with heels for an evening reception, or down for a day in the office with some simple tailored trousers.

MCQ ALEXANDER MCQUEEN This year the V&A is holding the first Alexander McQueen retrospective in Europe.

The celebrated ‘Savage Beauty’ exhibition showcases the innovative work of the designer, from his 1992 graduate show to his unfinished A/W 2010 collection.

The label has continued to flourish under

the creative direction of Sarah Burton and this season in particular we see the clean lines, unfinished edges and muted prints that all form part of the artistic and visionary roots of the brand.

Savage Beauty is on until 2 August at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, but if you’re looking to get your fashion-fix a little closer to home then you must take a trip to The Bowes Museum in Barnard Castle. The museum, in association with the Fondation Pierre Bergé - Yves Saint Laurent, is holding the UK’s first Yves Saint Laurent Exhibition, sponsored by Fenwick. The show opens on 11 July and will run until 25 October.

Further details can be found at www.thebowesmuseum.org.uk It’s not to be missed!

To explore our new season collections with the help of our in-house Fashion Stylist please call 0191 232 5100.

Catherine Newton is Head of Womenswear at Fenwick Newcastle.

Keeper >> MCQ blue dress, £350

With a little clever shopping it’s possible to pick up a dress or a shirt that will not only keep you ahead of the fashion curve this summer but will take you right through into the depths of winter in style.

Here are the five labels you need to have in your wardrobe right now.

VICTORIA BECKHAM DENIM Gone are the days of stone-washed, figure-hugging flares, the undisputed queen of fashion is now responsible for the coolest ‘denim’ range on the market. Her experiments with simple white shirts in exquisite cuts, neatly tailored jackets and edgy dresses have made Victoria Beckham Denim the line that fashion insiders rely on.

My pick from the Victoria Beckham Denim AW15 range is her Asymmetric Curved Shell Top. Wear it now with a mini-skirt, sandals and a pair of Céline sunglasses. For winter just add some merino wool tights, boots and a long-line coat to create an instant wardrobe classic!

JOSEPH Famous for its range of luxury essentials, Joseph has been the first word in contemporary fashion for over four decades.

Initially the brand was built by Joseph Ettedgui to house designer labels from all

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over the world, but it was the establishment of Ettedgui’s eponymous mainline collection that launched the brand outside of London.

From tailored trousers and jackets to cashmere sweaters layered over flowing silk shirts, Joseph is built for those who require a fashion-forward working wardrobe. For AW15 the brand has filled its collection with pieces in navy and gold; these two colours are key for the coming season so buy now to keep your wardrobe one step ahead. I adore their sleeveless high-neck dress in gold; wear it with a cross body bag to explore the city this summer and wear over trousers this winter for work.

KENZO The last few seasons have been all about Kenzo and that isn’t set to change anytime soon. The Parisian fashion brand is worn by Europe’s most in-the-know bloggers and it has become synonymous with the phrase ‘off-duty model chic’. Even the coolest magazine editors are vying to be seen in this need-to-know label.

With a sporty and modern style the brand is famed for its logo print sweatshirts which are available year-round. These statement pieces can be worn with skinny jeans at the weekend or with a shirt and suit-pants if you’re feeling adventurous at the office. At Paris Fashion Week street style stars were even spotted wearing this key piece with a

JUL/AUG15

AWARD WINNING HAIRDRESSING

Summer Loving EXCLUSIVE OFFER...

Treat yourself to partial highlights, or tone on tone colour and a cut and blow dry for only £50*

Like our Facebook page for latest trends and special offers www.hookerandyoung.co.uk Facebook/hooker&young Twitter @hookerandyoung Darlington 01325 468 994

Gosforth 0191 217 0217

Jesmond 0191 281 6714

Ponteland 01661 821 004

Wynyard 01740 644 690

*Available until the end of July 2015. Quote 'Luxe' when booking. Offer is available in all salons with selected stylists. Can not be used in conjunction with any other offer or voucher. You can upgrade to half head highlights for an additional £15, or to full head highlights for an additional £25.

BEACH BUDDY

LUXE LOVES The perfect beachy bag Grab the towels, the flip-flops and scurry to the sand. This cavernous canvas bag will be your summer best friend. ÂŁ80. www.thenauticalcompany.com

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JUL/AUG15

SANDY DAYS

A bit of a beach bounce This summer, bust out of your usual beach look of scraped back hair and mix it up with undone curls and big messy blow outs.

It’s all about that fabulously effortless look which actually takes a bit of doing, as if you didn’t know.

Those of you with a bit of natural curl or wave are going to find things a little easier but don’t worry if your hair is naturally straight as you can still create something equally as gorgeous with the right products and accessories.

Hair with a lot of curl can easily be transformed into beach beautiful with a very simple twisting technique and a good curl defining cream; I’d recommend Oribe ‘Curl By Definition’.

To damp hair add a good amount of product and comb evenly throughout, then take random sections about 12 in total and twist the hair from root to tip and allowing the hair to dry in the sun or speed up the process by adding a little heat with a dryer.

Once dried, use your fingers to loosen the twists but don’t break them up too much as you’ll lose some definition. A great finishing product is Oribe Apres Beach spray which will give hold, definition and shine to finish your look to perfection.

Those of you with smoother and looser hair textures will need to use either a wand or the easier option of hot bendy sticks to create some base curls. Taking random sections bang in around twelve hot sticks and allow to cool before removing, then use your fingers to loosen the curls by raking through from root to tip.

A good texture spray is key to help creating the look which will add volume, hold and definition to the curls without making it look ‘too done’. My recommendations are Oribe Dry Texture Spray which will work on all hair types and gives an amazing result and Apres Beach Spray.

Your summer starts here happy styling.

Michael Young and Gary Hooker run award-winning Hooker & Young, with five salons regionwide. See www.hookerandyoung.co.uk for salon details.

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WE DON’T ALWAYS

REMEMBER WORDS

WE REMEMBER

EXPERIENCES THINK PURE HEAVEN

NOW HOLD THOSE

THOUGHTS, THEY’LL SOON BE FEELINGS Things feel different once you enter through our doors,

we encourage you to switch off, forget the outside world for a while and let your personalised journey begin….

We’re passionate about making a real difference to the way you look and feel, offering you the most amazing therapeutic treatment rituals and an ESPA skincare experience that goes way beyond the skin.

Revitalised in body and mind. Youthful and exuberant in spirit and soul. Ready to face the world with renewed confidence – We’ll help you achieve that feeling.

Breathe. Relax. Let go. We’ve got you…

LAUNCHING AUGUST - NOW TAKING BOOKINGS The Spa at Ramside Hall Hotel Carrville Durham DH1 1TD www.ramsidespa.co.uk | enquiries@ramsidespa.co.uk Telephone: 0191 375 3088

INTRODUCING OUR SPA EXPERIENCES Sheer Indulgence Day

Experience the ultimate in spa indulgence… enjoy exclusive use of our balcony infinity pool and a four handed tension melting massage. Four hands are definitely better than two!

Switch Off & Spa

No need to spend hours perusing the treatment menu trying to select which treatment to take - allow us to remove the decision making and create and experience which is totally about YOU.

Make My Day

Personalise and design your very own spa day totally the way you want it in two simple stages. Your day, your choices, just leave it up to us to make you feel special.

Ladies That Spa

Get together with the girls, a Spa Day Experience designed for ladies who really know how to spa…

Lady In Waiting

Perfect for the Mum To Be seeking sanctuary, allow yourself some time to be pampered and take the weight off your feet.

Easy Like Sunday Morning

Sunday’s were just made for Spa… Wind down after a busy week or rest and recharge ready for the one ahead.

Two Peas in a Pod

Designed for couples who want to catch up, all in the most stunning surroundings.

Midweek Me - Time

A great ‘pick me up’ Spa Day Experience which fits nicely into anyone’s busy schedule.

Everything Stops For Tea

Whatever the occasion this is the perfect combination of pure relaxation and a tempting afternoon tea with a twist...

TECHIE SHOP

LIVE TO SHOP WITH WENDY GIBSON

Can’t wait...

Welcome to the pleasure zone at Ramside Hall

Wendy’s channelling the newest way to shop with ‘appiness Harvey Nicks has figured out that we’re all fed up with cards, and we always have our phones attached to us like glue – so say hello to the HN App. It’s a doddle to use, even by technophobes like me.

Download the app then every purchase you make appears on your phone, with a very jolly array of rewards, as well as quarterly vouchers to spend.

Perks currently start with free coffee, or smoothie, free alterations, makeup lessons, and concierge service. Then there’s VIP member days and champagne lunches at the Oxo tower. They’re keeping it fresh with imaginative, and constantly changing experiences as well as special sales previews and the like. I’m hooked.

I kick started my points with a visit to the Anoushka jewellery department in Harvey Nichols Sloane Street. For years I’ve been coveting one of the mythology charms from Anoushka, who started Links of London, and then created her own eponymous brand. Having recently worked with Mary Berry, who says she would often buy herself a piece of jewellery after working hard on a project, I decided I would embrace that philosophy, and reward myself after hosting a big business event in Covent Garden.

And so it is, I am now the proud owner of one of the mythology alphabet charms, worn Carrie Bradshaw-style around my neck, a ‘W’ in gold with tiny diamonds, finished with rhodium, to make it pop. There’s something very satisfying about buying your own jewellery and even better when it earns you points to save for next time!

High summer is finally here and with it bikini moments. Diet and exercise obviously on the agenda - but are there any cheats to help?

Since I’ve got a knee injury at the moment, which is preventing me from doing my normal yoga and pilates classes, I have to resort to other techniques.

Blow the budget for excellent body products from Rodial. But I’ve also found Nip and Fab Tummy Fix, and Mio, Get Waisted, to be highly effective in helping with pre-beach regimes. And having always sniggered at the thought of Slendertone, yes, I am now the proud owner of a Slendertone Abs. As Miranda would say, ‘Great fun.’ You can type, do your housework, watch the telly, water the garden and feel that reassuring tingle around your waist, which is hopefully doing its stuff pre-Sorrento and St Tropez this summer.

Neom, they of natural candles and potions, now offer the skin treatment candle. There’s de-stressing Real Luxury, or relaxing Tranquillity.

On holiday, just light the candle in its beautiful gold dipped pot. Within fifteen minutes it starts to release its gorgeous fragrance, and turns into a massage oil, which you then rub on sun-bronzed skin. It’s a candle, it’s a treatment and what I’d call pure summer luxe.

We’ve had a sneak peek at the snazzy new Spa At Ramside, due to open in August. Very nice it is too.

We tootled round the dazzling luxury suite, pictured above, with its wowie copper bath, acres of space and the feel of a retreat of a room that you won’t want to leave.

The spa has attention to detail for lovers of luxe relaxation for sure but also fun to be had for girly groups who have their own pleasure menu – an ‘away from it all’ area where it’s OK to giggle and glug without worrying if you’re upsetting those whose idea of a spa is a no-noise zone-out, mind-clearing experience.

One package designed for groups of six to eight is a package called Girls Just Want to Have Fun, a spa break in a luxury farmhouse with a breakfast hamper then plenty of spa and treatment time together.

Stay in your PJs and get a fab fusion meal delivered to your door to carry on the party. This starts at £175pp.

The new spa will boast a full size 25m swimming pool, large hydrotherapy pool, six thermal experience rooms including a glass-sided amphitheatre sauna, fully equipped life fitness gym and two exercise studios.

A new and exciting addition for you exercise bunnies is aerial yoga and there’s also a Spa Herb Garden complete with terrace and vitality pool.

A cosy ‘beauty snug’ is a great destination with nail studio, a dark relax room with soundwave therapy and sleep pods and a Mud Rasul chamber which can be enjoyed by groups of up to four.

The chaps get a look in too with ESPA treatment packages designed especially for men including the Men’s Reviver which is a cleanse, exfoliation, face, neck, scalp and shoulder massage plus a special face mask or Made For Men, which also offers a combination of massage and a tailored skin treatment. www.ramsidespa.co.uk or call 0191 375 3088.

As well as being a shopping supremo, shoe-a-holic and general lover of all things luxe, Wendy Gibson is a broadcaster, presenter and event host in the North East

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JUL/AUG15

ADVERTORIAL

>> Principal Dentist, Michael Oliver

Oliver’s is set to thrive after joining dental corporation Exciting times are ahead at Oliver’s Dental Studio Sunderland. Life is about to take a giant leap forward for one of the most respected facilities in northern dentistry

Attracted by its growing success over many years, the Oliver’s Dental Studio brand of high quality, private dentistry, has now become part of the world’s largest dental corporation family {my}dentist.

As such Oliver’s Dental Studio will become one of the many flagship practices of the {my}dentist group, as they expand their influence in the UK private dental sector.

Previous owner and principal dentist Michael Oliver is delighted by the takeover, as his thirty year vision comes under the stewardship of one of the most influential brands in the world of dentistry. “I am delighted to be joining forces with {my}dentist at such an exciting time for their company as the shape the future of British dentistry” “For such a powerful brand in national dentistry to see us

JUL/AUG15

as a great provider of private dentistry in the community is humbling for me and reflects the outstanding team we have here” “I look forward to being part of their exciting project and am particularly happy to be continuing my career of more than thirty years with the great team at Oliver’s in Sunderland” added Michael.

The {my}dentist group have outlined exciting plans for the growing practice at Oliver’s as they aim to utilise the wide ranging skills of the team. Excellence in restorative dentistry, dental implant replacement and rapid smile alignment will see Oliver’s Dental Studio becoming a major referral centre.

Chief Executive Terry Scicluna of the {my}dentist group shares Michael’s excitement about the project. “We are very excited that Michael and his team at Oliver’s Dental Studio have chosen to join {my}dentist at such an exciting time in our development and growth.

“The growth in private dentistry is an area we are looking at growing in the future and this acquisition will create a fantastic platform to further develop this sector as we continue to expand”.

Olivers Dental Studio, 27 Durham Road, East Herrington, Sunderland SR3 3NQ 0191 5282340 www.oliverdental.com follow us on Facebook

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TIME TO SHINE

<< SHADY DAYS This summer, Bobbi Brown introduces the Sandy Nudes Collection, bringing beach to brow. Products are designed to deliver the gorgeous glow of late afternoon sun. Love luminous shades of tawny nude, sandy gold, and beachy bronze.

The natural, sun-kissed glow. Left, Shimmering Sands Eye Palette, £52.

GLOW JO >> New to the Jo Malone fragrance collection is breathy and punchy Incense & Cedrat, £105. The key player is Omani incense, the most precious in the world, harvested from the desert. It’s an incense and citrus coupling for lasting fragrance.

Making summer bathing just that bit more luxe is a new shower oil with a sun-skin-friendly formula with sunflower seed, jojoba and coconut oil. Choose zesty Lime Basil & Mandarin to energise, juicy Blackberry & Bay to refresh or opulent Peony & Blush Suede to calm, £32. Polish the skin and prepare it for scent with new Geranium & Walnut Body Scrub, £40.

On counter at Jo Malone, Fenwick Newcastle.

Beauty:update Shades of sand and summer sunshine glow

SUMMER ZING >> Look out for the sparky citrus Origins GinZing energy-boosting moisturizer in a “Caffeine Addicts” double-shot 75ml collector’s edition.

Inspired by our cuppa, the lid is adorned with a sunburst of colourful coffee beans. With Caffeine and Panax Ginseng, this lightweight oil-free facial moisturiser jumpstarts skin’s hydration levels and creates a healthy, vibrant glow. Tired skin wakes up refreshed and revitalised. £25 while stocks last.

SMOULDER >> Clinique’s new Wear Everywhere Eye Shadow palette contains eight versatile mix-and-match hues. Comes in Nude, Pinks, Greens, Greys & Blues, £32.

<< THIS ISN’T JUST MAKE-UP We’re liking some of the new beauty treats on counter at Marks and Spencer where they are certainly upping the beauty game these days.

Studio 10 is the newest name on counter, a quick-fix beauty favourite. Youth Life GlowPlexion, £24, is a cult product and must-have for the professionals. It’s a lovely-to-use creamy, lightweight multi-purpose cream that gives instant radiance to any skin-tone and can be applied to the face and body to highlight and contour. You can use to highlight or mix a little with your foundation for subtle glow. It’s good added to body products for some flattering summery sheen and shape.

On the bronzer hunt, the Ambient Lighting Bronzer is soft and illuminating for a sun-kissed glow. Sweep on the airy formula for a healthy-looking, radiant finish, £28.

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JUL/AUG15

SUMMER SPA

SENSATION Only £59 for two 25 minute treatments Full use of the health club facilities with a free ESPA gift* A choice of two 25 minute spa treatments: • Aromatherapy back massage • ESPA express facial • Oriental scalp massage • Soothing eye treatment • Invigorating foot and lower leg massage

AVAILABLE JULY, AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER 2015 Slaley Hall, Slaley, Hexham, Northumberland NE47 0BX

01434 673350 SlaleySpa@qhotels.co.uk QHotels.co.uk/SlaleyHall

Book a third treatment for only £15

Terms and Conditions Terms & conditions apply & offer subject to availability. Offer available to book July, August and September 2015. Offer cannot be booked in conjunction with any other discount or promotion. Package includes two 25 minute treatments to be booked consecutively and by the person, time inclusive of consultation and aftercare advice. *ESPA free gift available while stocks last.

Please note – the Spa and Health Cub is family & child friendly, busy times are weekends and during school holidays.

Room time

Into the woods for luscious treatments in back-to-nature surroundings The latest additions to beauty gorgeousness in the region are The Treatment Rooms in the Coach House, Middleton Lodge near Darlington.

On tap is instant calm the moment you walk in from the gravelly courtyard setting.

Lovely furnishings in muted greys and soft whites. High ceilings, tactile textures and natural materials.

Lofty ceilings and wide spaces still manage to offer up a place of rest and cosiness so you really buy in to the feeling of retreat.

The treatment rooms themselves are subtle and stylish with a rustic and restful vibe that comes from the natural wood and slubby-coloured painted furniture. Linen curtains waft in the breeze and the only sounds are the rustle of trees that surround the buildings and the birdsong from the inhabitants on branches.

The design of the spa area and the treatment menu have been devised by Beccy Tappin.

She is married to James Allison who runs the Middleton Lodge estate and her background is in architecture and interiors.

She set the tone for the laid-back look of the Coach House and sprinkled her interior design magic whilst an arduous research project led to her having to test out many spa treatment ranges to find those that would work with the relaxed vibe of the place.

The choices were REN and VOYA. Both are made with natural, sustainable and organic products with a full menu of massages, body wraps, and facials.

REN Clean Skin products are derived from plants and minerals, with core principles of purity, pleasure and high performance. VOYA, a completely organic seaweed-based product range which is hand harvested in Ireland, including only plant-based products, which is highly effective in eliminating aches and pains, detoxifying and working against cellulite.

Signature treatments reference the nature on the doorstep with restful-sounding therapies such as a two-and-a-half hour Secret Garden Escape or a REN Yorkshire Rose Ritual.

Selena Blain, who also runs Cocoon in Darlington, is the collaborative partner overseeing the treatment rooms.

She says: “We have created some completely bespoke treatments exclusively for Middleton Lodge so it is really exciting.”

HAIR STYLING SPECIALISTS

VISIT OUR NEW STYLING BAR FOR THAT SPECIAL HAIR DAY, A DESIGN UNIQUE TO YOU IN AN INSTANT Bannatyne Health Club, Eden Tce, Belmont 0191 386 3055 Wynyard Hall Hotel, Wynyard 01740 665 404

Details of the treatment menu: www.middletonlodge.co.uk/treatments/

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TIME TO SHINE

YOUNG & FUN >> bareMinerals new Pop of Passion range features a colour-popping collection of eight nourishing Lip Oil-Balms, £16, and three hydrating Blush Balms, £20.

<< ULTIMATE GLOW There’s never a bad beach day in the world of Tom Ford. Sandy, shimmering eye powders are perfect after hot beach days and a TF Gold Dust bronzer, compact, £56, is enough to make a girl’s summer complete.

Ford fans are going to swoon at the newest addition to the fragrance range – on counter at the end of July.

Noir Pour Femme is meant to be a bit romantic, a bit powerful. The blend is decadent floral with mysterious Eastern, woody and aromatic notes. Opening notes of citrus and spice move to florals and perky mandarin oil and bitter orange for a citrus kick.

A post-tan treat is a matching Hydrating Emulsion, a luxurious satin-like body lotion to smooth and soften the skin. Range from £53. On counter in Fenwick.

GO COCO >> Chanel jumps from luscious sea-blue zing and deep smoky blue eyes to gentle easy-wear beige with two collections that work for high holiday glamour or laid-back ‘nude’ make-up for gentle sight-seeing and beach days.

Fabulous nail blues, £18, and softy sheen Healthy Glow beige bronzers, £44, are our pick for a perfect summer.

Treatment review Tropical chill-out time at Seaham Hall with an Ytsara coconut soother massage

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Ytsara Maphrao Warm Coconut Soother, 90 minutes, £125 This is one of these delicious spa rituals that is so worthy of the name. The luxe treatment had me feeling like a new woman at the end of 90 minutes, all tension and stresses completely melted away.

As the name suggests, it’s both soothing and rejuvenating at the same time and so aromatic too – the scent of sweet coconut has you drifting off to your own tropical retreat.

The luxury Thai Ytsara range is new to Seaham Hall’s spa and the Maphrao full-body exfoliation and massage is a deeply relaxing pamper treat – after the exfoliation part is out of the way!

Now that jumpers have been peeled off and various bits of the body are exposed to the sun, a thorough exfoliation was just what was needed.

My treatment started with a foot and hand cleanse in the cosy confines of one of the scented treatment rooms.

Then after hopping on to a heated bed, my therapist got to grips with a full-body exfoliation using jasmine red rice.

A quick shower to wash off all the grains and granules was followed up by treaty massage time. Using warm extra virgin coconut oil this involved a mix of pressure point and relaxing movements. It was a gentle massage that just

suited my frame of mind, although a firmer massage can be requested.

Afterwards, a warmed-up sesame and coconut poultice was glided across the skin, to massage and condition. The poultice is yours to keep afterwards – a nice touch – and can be heated in a steamer at home for re-use. Skin felt super-soft and nourished at the end of the treatment. I wafted in to lunch, walking on air, smelling all Bounty bar.

Lunch at the acclaimed Ozone pan-Asian restaurant, attached to Serenity Spa, was a wonderful way to extend the zen feeling. Especially sat in fluffy bath robes. Do check out the spa/Ozone offers available.

Duck pancakes followed by Szechuan beef stir-fry and my munching companion’s prawn sweet and sour with cucumber and pineapple were all excellent healthy dishes, packed full of fresh crunchy veg. Chocolate and sesame brownie was deliciously gooey in the middle, and Thai mango mess with lime and ginger meringue, a warming exotic take on classic Eton Mess.

Katharine Capocci Serenity Spa, Seaham Hall, Lord Byron’s Walk, County Durham, SR7 7AG. Tel: 0191 516 1400. www.seaham-hall.co.uk

JUL/AUG15

Late Summer Loungeabout at Slaley Hall Slaley Hall celebrates its 20th Birthday with a lazy&lovely grand loungeabout for all the family

Explore the stunning hotel and its impressive grounds on Sunday August 30. This gorgeous garden gathering will be a relaxed and fun day out where you can...

CHILL OUT WITH >> • The sounds of laid back jazz • A seat on a hay bale as you sip a craft beer • Gorgeous gourmet foods from in the tasting village • A mooch round a mini art & craft market • Some hands-on pampering from the Slaley Spa team

IF YOU’RE FEELING ACTIVE >> • Get to grips with golf and meet the Slaley experts • Head off on family fun adventure trails • Try your hand at thrill-seeking adventure sports • Let the kids play, party, bounce and boogie in the Little Loungeabout area

For more information call the events office on 01434 673 350

In association with

A STUDY IN STYLE in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

Old school, new style Julie Trelease is something of a design magpie and her North Yorkshire home, a former school, is a gallery outside and in

Even before taking a step inside Unnamed House, you’re forced to stop in your tracks.

The gate that leads to the courtyard of the former school has its heritage carved within.

Blacksmith Adrian Wood worked with Julie to design the gates and railings to feature references to the building’s past and to some of Julie’s favourite things.

“It was definitely a meeting of minds,” says Julie.

“If you look closely you will see some of my favourite books inscribed with a particularly lovely paragraph. A brolly is a reference to mums and dads waiting in the rain on a windy day - the brolly has blown inside out!”

Intricate ironwork exposes the essence of a school’s life: satchels, books and footballs, all hinting at the young lives that passed through the building.

Its unusual name is the result of a classroom competition devised by Julie. She asked local pupils to come up with a name for the property. Julie loved Caitlin’s idea – and now her name is there for future generations too, inscribed on a book that is part of the blacksmith’s design.

The Victorian school is in the village of Middleton Tyas on the outskirts of Darlington and Richmond. A modern school was built to replace it.

These days it’s a much more fun-filled place than its history hints at. Owner Julie Trelease has a passion for hunting down fabulous pieces of furniture and art and the house has huge ‘look-at-me’ appeal.

Julie and her husband are no strangers to a ‘project’, having masterminded several in the past. They run a successful roofing company, have a building force on tap and are fascinated by design, build, craftsmanship – and a challenge.

Julie is a bundle of chatter and fun, a mine

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of information and incredible memory, she can reference writers, designers, artists and her inspirations as she walks you through what is simply a remarkable property.

The word eclectic is perhaps overused these days: but it is rightly attributed here.

From the old schoolyard you walk into the kitchen, dominated by a wide arched ceiling and dramatic gothic windows which overlook a country garden.

They flood light into an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area.

The focus is a beautiful walnut table and striking iconic Cherner chairs.

Almost everything in this house demands to be touched, stroked, or gazed at. Everything has a story to tell and your eyes dart about the place stopping at delicious details at every turn.

Take the kitchen units. These are handmade

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The light in the house is tremendous and its mood changes all the time from Macassar ebony and oak. But they are interspersed with panels made up from vintage printers’ blocks and within these, Julie has added significant names and sayings to reflect her family.

There is an aubergine coloured AGA, fridge freezer and a central island of oak and granite with a built-in integral wine fridge.

There are small snug rooms off the walkway from front to back each with their own character but a variety of uses: reading room, snug, sunroom and book-lined lavatory. On every surface collector Julie has her own ‘curated’ pieces, each with their tales to tell.

Hardwood Floors

A stone wall near the front hall is dominated by a row of cinema seats by designer Lisa Whatmough of Squint. She creates furniture with patchwork textures and the cinema chairs are covered in sections of old French quilts. Julie asked her to line the underside of the seats with bus sign canvases.

A curved wall stops you in your tracks as you spy a life-sized wire sculpture of a figure embracing the wall.

Then a glass and wood split staircase leads from the dais up to a mezzanine living area and first floor accommodation.

The mezzanine level with bespoke smoked oak fittings is a restful quiet space – or >>

...just tap the app

coming soon from Dornbracht

10 Stirling Court, Eleventh Avenue North, Team Valley, NE11 0JF

A Wood Idea adds the prestigious Ted Todd hardwood flooring range to their portfolio

Staircases I Flooring I Doors

This comprehensive collection of British hardwood floors compliments the Wood Idea commitment to the highest quality joinery products for the home.

“Now that’s a Wood Idea” JUL/AUG15

www.h2obdc.co.uk

Unit 4, Blaydon Trade Park, Toll Bridge Road, Blaydon, Tyne & Wear. NE21 5TR

A WOOD IDEA GREAT IDEAS IN WOOD FLOORING & DOORS

T:

0191 414 1300 F: 0191 414 1306 www.awoodidea.com

Visit:

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A STUDY IN STYLE in association with

www.greatlook.co.uk

It is a sensuous house with stories to tell and a history to live up to

maybe the ultimate by-yourself dance floor beneath the exposed timbers and stone arches of the original school building. Julie commissioned Whitby-based stained glass window artist Alan Davis to create a striking focal point for this space and his work features elsewhere in the property.

A raft of esteemed local artisan craftspeople worked on aspects of the house to create bespoke original pieces, including stonework, contemporary furniture and fittings and inspiring individual murals which reflect Julie’s passions and reference the history of the houses.

Says Julie: “It is a cavernous place so the challenge was to make it cosy and inviting and I think we have.

“When the big fire is lit you see reflections of the flames flicker on the glass of the stairway.

“There are aspects of the house that are just not practical – like the mezzanine which overlooks the rooms so it does not lend itself to conventional living but they are ‘living’ rooms.”

A modern extension to the side of the Unnamed House is sympathetic in character to the original building, with exposed stonework and arched windows. It leads to a patio that’s perfect for summer winedrinking or morning coffee.

A castellated wall, trained Aspalier apple trees and contemporary raised beds and bespoke seating are all hand built from Westmorland slate. Steps made of slate chips and railway sleepers, with terraced borders lead down to the lower walled garden with generous lawn area and raised vegetable beds.

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There are views and spaces on many levels and little symmetry, which Julie likes.

Every window and space offers up a vision of its own.

“I can see a rookery from my favourite chair in the kitchen/dining room. The big gothic window frames this beautifully.

My favourite time is dusk and especially when you get a lilac sky - the black witchy fingers of the trees and the black crows’ nests. Pot of coffee and a great book... suits me sir!”

A snug or fourth bedroom has a striking original mural in the style of Gustav Klimt, arched window and oak flooring. The cloakroom is rich in individual character with contemporary fitted display and storage units, an unusual coloured glass sink and a unique ceiling mural.

The ground floor bedroom is painted as a soft woodland glade, designed once again to reflect the curves of the original architecture with a full height curved wall creating a unique en-suite shower room with Bisazza mosaic tiles and fixtures and fittings imported from Italy.

On the first floor, the master bedroom has a range of bespoke handmade fitted wardrobes in Zebrano wood and skylights ensuring that this room is bathed in natural light. Julie’s ‘bubble bed’ creates more drama still with carved oak balls.

The dramatic en-suite bathroom has a massive impact with a large egg-shaped bath which was imported from Italy with a mosaic-style slate splash back. There’s also a bespoke built-in vanity area made of Zebrano wood and a wet shower area with unusual black glass tiles.

A further mezzanine level to the far end of the house has another commissioned stained glass window and is a space for a study or reading area.

An unusual curved glass and oak staircase leads down into the third en-suite bedroom, with an arched window with views across the gardens and rooftops of the village.

Julie loves the craftsmanship of Anthony Nixon Bespoke Furniture of Barnard Castle, and much of the cabinetry in the house is from the company, including woodland designs for Julie’s grandchildren Saffron and Liberty’s room.

It is like walking into an enchanted woodland. Carved leaves twist along drawers and wardrobes against a woodland mural on the wall. Lucky girls.

JULIE’S LITTLE BLACK BOOK >> • Peter Coverdale stonemason • Alan Davis architectural glass artist • Adrian Wood blacksmith artist • Sam Ford Murals textile artist • Anthony Nixon furniture • Andrew Marxby specialist paint techniques • RE, Corbridge • Redhouse, Bedale • Ruby & Dee, Barnard Castle • Mission Hall, Barnard Castle Unnamed house is for sale at £750,000 at ww.gscgrays.co.uk

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SEA AIR in association with

SEABREEZY >>

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Trend watch

We do like to be beside the seaside, preferably in an easyliving bolthole where you can rock-up and relax

THE RIGHT WAVELENGTH >> Roberts Revival DAB digital radio in Clarke & Clarke beach huts print, £200 www.robertsradio.co.uk

AND RELAX >>

Lobster print cushion, £20 www.houseoffraser.co.uk

LIE BACK >>

Harbour print deckchair sling £15 www.johnlewis.co.uk

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WIPE OUT >>

Lovely linen napkins embroidered with a navy blue beach hut and soaring seagulls design, £14 www.clareloves.co.uk

A cosy coastal pad by the sea is probably on many a wish-list.

Keeping it close to home the tick-boxes would include sink-in sofas, easy-care fabrics and some hand-me-down furniture (call it retro) that can cope with coffee-cup rings, and feet-up moments.

We’re a bit intoxicated by the holiday properties from Gone to The Beach which seem to offer a nicely pared-down version of coastal.

Lots of the properties are in North Berwick on the East

Lothian coast of Scotland, so easy to get to from our neck of the woods with dazzling views.

If someone gave us a house by the sea to play with, this is what it might look like. No 29 Victoria Terrace has amazing views right into the harbour, east to Bass Rock and west to the town beach.

It has the feel of being on a ship, you can even hear the masts clinking in the wind from the harbour. The décor is simple, restful and uncomplicated.

TAKE THE BEACH HOME >> Martha and Hepsie Puffin Billy handmade lampshade, £50 www.marthaandhepsie.com

www.gonetothebeach.co.uk Images: Angus Bremner

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LUXE LOCAL

Morpeth What a bustling little place this is. It has charm and character but also a no-nonsense sense of practicality. From haberdashery to designer dog accessories, something for all. One of those places ticking the ‘quality of life’ box, big style PROPERTIES >> Spoilt for choice. Land of the barn conversion or renovated steading on the outskirts. The town has some very smart suburban detached homes and exec new-builds. There are characterful older terraces, townhouses and stone cottages to be found in walking distance of the town’s amenities. On the outskirts and in small villages nearby, find some spectacular period properties with lashings of land, bucketloads of style and eternal charm.

CONNECTED >> Very well connected. A train station gets you to Scotland, Newcastle or London in no time on the speedy East Coast line.

You’re very handy for coastal drives with the

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sea about 12 miles away or do a commute to Newcastle on the A1, about 14 miles.

SHOP >> This is a great place for a mooch whether you’re after a quirky gift, wedding outfit, piece of mid-century modern painted furniture or a designer kitchen.

We visited on a Wednesday when the town was packed thanks to the pull of the weekly market but the Sanderson Arcade with the likes of Crew and Hobbs has upped the shopping game a bit more still.

But the independent shops make Morpeth stand out. Department store Rutherford’s in the high street is the place to shop for your drapey summer linens as well as the good beauty brands and a bit of Joules. There’s

something solid and lasting about having an ironmonger on your doorstep too, the John Small & Sons building in the main street is tradition itself.

Quite the contrast if you’ve got a 21st century hound is Urban Pooch ‘stylish living for dogs’ for designer dog baskets and blingy collars.

Other shops we loved were The Bird Cage which stocks Little Green paint and is packed with gorgeous painted furniture and quirky design finds. Pick of the shop; a painted door made into a table, very nice.

At French Grey Tales you can go on furniturepainting and craft courses. It’s also a really great place to hunt down funky gifts and retro textiles. We’d like to pop to Bassu for an Aveda treatment one day too…

The Cheese Shop and Corbridge Larder are filled with deli treats and plenty of tempting local delicacies or satisfy a sugar need at Pudding Parlour and the Chocolate Gallery.

Stock up on wines at Bin 2. Varleys Fruit Shop is a picture of a place and also sells lovely flowers.

FOOD >> Foodies are well satisfied here. There’s a market every Wednesday where we spied some lovely stuff: Indian street food at On The Goa, sweet treats at Benny’s Macaroons or be spoilt for choice with Castle Bakery’s offerings of rustic sourdough, spelt loaves, cheese bread and buttery croissants. Loved the look of the Geordie Bangers section too.

STROLL >> There are several landmarks in Morpeth town centre, the most notable being the Town Hall, which was built in 1869-70, an exact replica of Sir john Vanbrugh’s original.

The clock tower, which stands nearby at the entrance to Oldgate was built as a jail, and the curfew bell still sounds at 8 o’clock each evening.

EATING OUT >> Barluga is a buzzy wine bar with a burger-and-beer selection and some outside dining tables. We liked the look of Socrates @No5, a Greek restaurant offering authentic dishes. Many cafes and tearooms to go at such as Café des Amis in Newgate Street which looked inviting. Central Bean is always reliable and Corbridge Larder offers nice snacking lunchy stuff.

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LUXE LOCAL

property: three to choose Super chic A palace of a property interior-designed to glossy perfection. Northcroft Manor is just made for a buyer who wants to live in a lavish boutique hotel all of their own.

POA

www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

PROPERTY WATCH WITH DUNCAN YOUNG

Woodland wow A burn runs through the gardens of this fabulous Hepscott home and three bridges go across – to access a lovely on-site summer or winter hideaway. Dreamy woodland grounds and a spectacular terrace to enjoy them from.

£1.25m www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

Handsome house Big rooms, sweeping views and a grand plot of garden. Clifton House has lofty ceilings, handsome proportions and masses of character.

£850,000 www.sandersonyoung.co.uk

my local Ken Dunbar lives in Morpeth. He is former chief executive of Castle Morpeth Council and now heads up Sunderland Bid. Three good things about living here >> The character and heritage of the town. It has some of the most amazing historic buildings, a fabulous, award-winning park and some great views from the castle, Courthouse or Telford Bridge.

Morpeth’s markets, shops, bars and restaurants. All of them have a high quality, independent feel, which means you can always get something different and it’s always backed up by friendly service. It doesn’t have a ‘clone’ town feel with the same retailers that you’ll tend to find in every town and city. Instead it has a great balance between nationals and independents with some real nuggets like Tallantyre, Stait Photography, Carrs newsagents, Giannis, Nadon Thai, Sour Grapes and the irreplaceable Joiners Arms! Though it’s great to know there’s always something new which gives the old favourites a bit of competition and a reminder they can’t rest on their laurels.

The people; You can go out to a pub any night of the week, on your own and will always be greeted with a warm welcome and willingness to debate anything and everything. You always go home feeling that you’ve solved the world’s problems even if it’s all just in your mind.

Three things to do with visitors >> A walk through Carlisle park and the William Turner garden (maybe take in a rowing boat on the river during the summer) A pub trail starting from the top of the town, Sour Grapes down to Joiners Arms with quite a few in between!

A visit to the Chantry and Bagpipe Museum. Something you’ll never find anywhere else in the world, far less the UK. An ‘in the know’ secret >> A house or property by the side of the River Wansbeck is most desirable, especially now that flood protection works are complete.

Morpeth boasts many riverside walks which link to Carlisle Park with its river boating, tennis courts and bowls. The park also plays host to the wonderful Turner Garden, celebrating the life of William Turner, the father of English botany who was born and educated at Morpeth.

The famous suffragette Emily Wilding Davison is buried in the churchyard of St

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Mary the Virgin in Morpeth. She was fatally injured when she stepped on to the track during the 1913 Epsom Derby and fell under the flying hooves of King George V’s horse Anmer.

The cemetery is close to Longhorsley where she had lived with her mother. Her gravestone bears the Women’s Social and Political Union slogan, “Deeds not words”.

A SHORTAGE OF SUPPLY It is very interesting to reflect on the property market over the last two months since the new government was elected. The first quarter of this year was relatively quiet in relation to the number of transactions that took place and there was clearly a confidence issue with the uncertainty of the election.

This, however, has been resolved and the majority government is moving forward with some strong economic progress.

The housing market also needs to commence building and the large number of planning permissions that have been granted throughout the region need to be exercised and made available for the pipeline of properties which are running short in many areas.

The market remains fragmented with most demand under the £500,000 price level and still heavily reliant upon the hotspots of Gosforth, Jesmond, Corbridge and Bamburgh. In some of those areas house prices are clearly rising, especially amongst popular traditional family homes. We are also seeing the early signs that some of the multi-occupation houses which have historically been bought by investor landlords for students could return to private ownership once again. The city of Newcastle has built a huge amount of purpose-built student accommodation and this will transform the traditional student view and give them flexibility and choice as to whether they live in a hall of residence for one year, or three to four years of their student life. This accommodation is luxurious, very economical, centrally placed and extremely convenient. I hope that in certain areas, especially Jesmond, we will see some of the traditional Edwardian terraces returning to private homes, something I think many residents will welcome.

I am also hopeful that projects being discussed within the city centre will start to come to fruition. Over the last eight years there have been very few projects built in the city and we now have an increased amount of studios and one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments at an affordable price level and with incentive breaks through the private rented sector.

Our offices are extremely busy at the moment and we do have keen buyers who want to proceed and are actively viewing. Due to the low supply of quality stock this is leading to some clear price rises and we have witnessed the return of best and final offers on a number of occasions.

The top end of the market is not so bullish but the volume of senior executives and wealthy purchasers is continuing to improve. There is clearly a feel-good factor in the market but I suspect that some of the senior executives and owners of businesses have been repairing their own balance sheets before they award themselves dividends and bonuses. There are still some very good buys at the top end of the market and we have recently negotiated some excellent sales for the purchasers, where clients have been very keen to sell and buyers have undoubtedly benefitted.

My strongest recommendation is to look at the price level £750,000 to £1.5 million, especially around Newcastle and Darras Hall, where some property sales are providing excellent value for money - this will not last forever once the supply of properties is reduced.

With the hopeful onset of good weather, now is a very good time to ensure your gardens look at their best and this can often add premium values of at least 10 or 15 per cent beyond the norm. Investing in gardens, especially lighting, good landscaping and clever design does pay back a good dividend. A number of houses plan extensions with bi-fold doors that open the garden into the house and I have been extremely impressed with lighting designs illuminating mature trees and terraces. Let us hope that the weather is kind to us so that we can enjoy the outdoors over the coming weeks.

We look forward to being able to direct the sale or let of your property throughout July and August and I am always delighted to give personal recommendations and advice to those people thinking of a move.

Duncan G Young Dip.Est.Man.FNAEA, Managing Director, Sanderson Young duncan.young@sandersonyoung.co.uk 0191 223 3500

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ADVERTORIAL

A CHARM OF ITS OWN

Morpethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s independent retailers and businesses make this Northumberland market town a must-visit this summer

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ADVERTORIAL

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We’re here for the whole holiday prep – from the basics of waxing, tanning and body-smoothing exfoliation to intense body treatments such as those in the fabulous Elemis range. We can put together full pamper packages of luscious lashes, perfect occasion make-up and results-driven facials with our Environ range of prescriptive treatments that are the ultimate big-day boosts.

We pride ourselves on being at the forefront of new beauty therapies and love to work with product ranges that we can really recommend, knowing they provide effective results for our customers.

We can tailor treatments to suit any skincare issue. That might mean a feel-good ‘instant’ glow for a key occasion or a schedule of treatments leading up to a holiday or wedding.

26 Bridge Street, Morpeth 01670 518424 www.urbanspa.co.uk

62 Bridge Street, Morpeth , Northumberland, NE61 1PQ 01670 513 175

NEWGATE DENTAL >>

MORPETH MARKET >>

The practice is situated in a beautiful Grade 2 listed building in the historic town of Morpeth which is full of history, beauty and heritage.

The practice formed from humble beginnings almost 26 years ago and has developed into a multi-disciplinary dental practice which offers treatment of a very high standard. This experience means that whatever your dental problem, there is a solution.

Patients are at the heart of everything and the team make three promises: 1. To listen and never judge 2. All treatment options will be explained thoroughly 3. Treatment starts immediately as soon as a patient is ready.

What makes this practice special is that from start to finish the aim is to make the experience a pleasant and relaxed one. Practice co-ordinator Collette will be available at all times to discuss your individual care plan. Together with our caring team and welcoming environment we endeavour to make your visit a first-class experience.

23 Newgate St, Morpeth 01670 514472 www.newgatedental.solutions

Robert Green & Partners are Morpeth’s longest established optometrists. We’ve been around since 1933 and are still delivering truly excellent service.

Located in the heart of Morpeth, Northumberland, on Bridge Street we offer spacious, light and fully accessible state-of-the-art facilities.

We offer unhurried eye examinations in comfortable fully equipped consulting rooms and we’re here whatever your needs and requirements.

We promise to explain all available options in plain English and we stock and supply a large range of spectacle and contact lenses as well as fashion and designer frames to help you look stylish and be comfortable, all at affordable prices.

Kevin Gray has been the sole owner of R Green and Partners since 2013 but has been with the practice since 1987, and is supported by a team currently including three other optometrists, and five other support staff.

Our designer frame suite located on the first floor includes the latest ranges from Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Dolce & Gabbana, amongst others, with Ray-Ban sunglasses and ophthalmic frames being the latest addition. Also, and exclusively in Morpeth, we are delighted to offer the amazing bespoke Lindberg Spirit and n.o.w. range of ultra-lightweight frames from Denmark.

Contact us to arrange a consultation.

Morpeth Market runs every Wednesday from 9am till 3pm with the Farmers’ Market running every first Saturday of the month.

Both markets attract over 20 high quality local producers with products such as fruit and veg from Julian Negruit, meat from Northumbrian Poultry and Geordie Bangers, fish from Michael Adamson and baked goods including fresh macaroons from Benny’s Toon Macaroons!

There are also plenty food to go stalls including Indian street food stall ‘On the Goa’ and specialist pie maker ‘Gingersnaps’.

Over this summer there is a fabulous line-up including the return of the popular ‘Six Weeks Summer of Fun’ which will run throughout the school summer holiday.

There will be animals, music and face painting all for FREE at the Morpeth Market, during the summer break. Keep an eye out for updates and leaflets! www.moreinmorpeth.co.uk

SANDERSON ARCADE >> Sanderson Arcade is in the heart of the beautiful market town of Morpeth and is home to a range of fantastic high street brands including M&S, Laura Ashley, Fat Face and Monsoon. The Arcade is also proud of its great range of unique independent stores and coffee shops.

The North East companies The Pudding Parlour and Pol Kefton Home are two of the newest additions to Sanderson Arcade, and Roman Originals has just opened a store at the popular shopping centre. Other stores at the centre include Mountain Warehouse, JoJo Maman Bebe, Clarks, Waterstones and New Look.

The Arcade was opened in November 2009 by Joanna Lumley OBE after a major re-modelling of a previously run-down site in the town, transforming it into a thriving town centre shopping destination.

The Arcade has an attractive central piazza area where shoppers can sit out and enjoy a coffee or a meal and watch the world go by. Central Bean, Barluga and Corbridge Larder all have great menu ranges to suit all tastes as well as attractive outdoor seating areas for the warm summer months.

The team at the Arcade work closely with other stakeholders in the town centre to help organise events in Morpeth including the forthcoming Morpeth Food and Drink Festival which is planned for October 3rd this year and will be celebrating its third year.

The centre also hosts regular weekend and Bank Holiday performances from talented local bands and performers and the team is busy planning its Big Back To School event with a baking competition and lots of other activities on Saturday August 8th.

To find out more about what’s happening at Sanderson Arcade over the summer months visit www.sandersonarcade.co.uk

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SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Lindisfarne Road Jesmond

A rare opportunity to purchase a highly individual and luxurious home in the heart of Jesmond, representing one of Newcastle’s finest town mansions. This elegant, four storey detached family house is set in approximately one acre of south facing landscaped gardens and accommodates a bespoke open plan Poggenpohl kitchen, six double en-suite bedrooms, four stunning, large reception rooms and a leisure suite with full size pool.

Guide Price: £3.995 Million

Brackendene House

Brackendene Drive, Low Fell Brackendene House was constructed in the mid 1850s and has been renovated to a very high standard to create a magnificent Grade II family home. This six bedroom, unique property has a great deal of style and character with features including tall ceilings with elaborate carvings, solid oak doors and tremendous fireplaces. Externally, the grounds are substantial with stunning views and there is a detached one bedroom coach house.

Guide Price: £1.695 Million

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

SELLING THE REGION’S FINEST HOMES

Craignethan

Mitchell Avenue, Jesmond This highly impressive, three storey, detached family home, constructed circa 1906, is located in a very popular area of Jesmond and has been tastefully refurbished and modernised to a very high standard. The house has six double bedrooms and a great deal of style and character with high ceilings, cornicing, elaborate plasterwork, panelled doors, contemporary fireplaces and marble floor tiling. EPC: D

Guide Price: £1.25 Million

The Directors House

Jesmond Dene Road, Jesmond The Directors House is a most unusual and unique property, believed to date back to the late 19th century. The two storey detached house, designed in a cottage style, shows obvious potential for extending and renovation and provides a very rare opportunity within the heart of Jesmond. The existing accommodation includes three bedrooms and there is a range of connected outbuildings which could easily be converted. EPC: F

Guide Price: £775,000

From Sanderson Young ALL CONFIDENTIAL ENQUIRIES TO 0191 223 3500 OR EMAIL: DUNCAN.YOUNG@SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK | WWW.SANDERSONYOUNG.CO.UK

local, regional, national and international specialists in property marketing

GARTH END, WYNYARD ROAD, WOLVISTON

£599,000

A superb example of a pre-war six bedroom detached property. The house stands back off the road within substantial grounds extending to approximately three quarters of an acre

HONEYPOT CLOSE, WHITTON, STOCKTON-ON-TEES

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£460,000

Located in a delightful rural setting overlooking open farmland, 9 Honeypot Close is a lovely four bedroom barn conversion completed in 2010 and providing a superb family home of character.

SATLEY HOUSE, SATLEY

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£699,950

An elegant and unique country property of both history and character, this residence offers substantial accommodation that’s capable of providing a forever home for several generations.

Wynyard 01740 645 444

Tyne Valley 0845 459 6000

Contact: 0191 384 2277

Newcastle 0845 459 6000

Durham 0191 384 2277

Cumbria 0845 872 5453

residing@fineandcountry.com

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2 EMBLETON GROVE, WYNYARD

£395,000

A four bedroom detached property in Embleton Grove occupies a generous corner plot in exclusive Wynyard Village to offer outstanding family accommodation both inside and out.

THE WHITEHOUSE, SHERATON, HARTLEPOOL

£770,000

A property has been on the site of The Whitehouse for 300 years in the medieval village of Sheraton, but the home that stands there today is very much a luxury dwelling for the 21st century.

PORTLAND HOUSE, HOLYWOOD, WOLSINGHAM

Northumberland 0845 459 6000

sales@fineandcountry-lakes.co.ul

info@durhamfineandcountry.co.uk

Contact: 0191 384 2277

£1,995,000

Portland House is a stunning, individual residence designed to provide the very highest quality luxury living within the spectacular rural landscape of Weardale.

Lakes 01539 733 500

Contact: 01740 645 444

Contact: 0191 384 2277

www.fineandcountry.com Head office: 121 Park Lane, Mayfair, London WIK 7AG.

GO FASTER

72 hours in New York Direct flights from Newcastle bring New York that bit closer. Luxe joined a whistle-stop trip to the Big Apple

Depending on the day it might be an icy wind or a gleaming shaft of sunlight that spears through tall columns of buildings that flank one of the world’s most memorable landmarks. The square and two huge waterfalls that are monuments to the terrible events that took place here on September 11 2001.

There is a palpable reverence among the hundreds of people who have gathered to remember that momentous day.

Built in the footprints of the buildings that once stood here, the waterfalls are identical, vast and awe-inspiring. Each is constructed on two descending levels, the water flowing swiftly down to a central square hole that disappears into an apparent abyss.

Each waterfall features a bronze casing into which are inscribed the names of all 2,977 people who perished here

and in the other 9/11 attacks.

As you stand and watch the water, buffeted by the breeze or shading the glare of the sun, you cannot help but recall the TV news pictures from the most important day of the millennium so far.

Images of the white, shining towers, the pure blue of the sky, the approaching planes, the fire and smoke, the falling man.

The waterfalls are just one aspect of this newly rejuvenated site, known as the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

The museum, which tells an eloquent, moving and hugely human story of that day, sits to one side of the plaza; on the other corner, rises the shining edifice of the newly completed One World Trade Centre, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

It’s clear that the authorities have made a considerable effort to create a fitting tribute, and that they have achieved considerable success, but there’s also no mistaking the

With time of the essence, being able to fly direct to the Big Apple from Newcastle Airport is a huge plus. Flights depart at a civilised 9.10am landing at 12noon local time at Newark International 76

fact that the plaza is New York’s latest tourist attraction.

Like the tourist attractions at nearby Ellis Island (where millions of immigrants first came ashore) and the Statue of Liberty, the 9/11 plaza offers a glimpse into why New York is perhaps the greatest city on earth; if anywhere epitomises human endeavour, creativity, ingenuity, courage and perseverance, then it’s New York.

Along with these globally significant sites, the city is also home to many of the planet’s greatest art treasures, to world-class performing arts, to the best possible shopping, to a truly international food scene that incorporates every cuisine, to buzzing bars, to sky soaring, neck-craning architecture, to a truly multi-cultural

vibe that suggests this is more of a city state than just one small part of a very large country.

There is truly nowhere else like New York – and 72 hours here is scant time to really do the place justice.

With time of the essence, being able to fly direct to the Big Apple from Newcastle Airport is a huge plus. United currently offers five flights a week, departing at a civilised 9.10am and landing at 12noon local time at Newark International, just across the river from New York in New Jersey.

If you want to travel in style, United’s Business/First class is excellent with wide, comfortable seats that convert into lie-flat beds, which mean you really can get some valuable sleep on the overnight return.

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GO FASTER but a cost-effective way to see the main sites is to buy the New York City Pass, which costs $114 ($89 children).

If you still have energy after trying to squeeze every ounce of value from the pass, and really want to overload on culture, just 10 minutes’ walk from the Beacon is the Lincoln Centre for Performing arts with an opera house, symphony hall, theatre and variety of smaller venues. And if you fancy something a little lighter, the Broadway theatre district (again, an easy walk downtown from the Beacon) offers numerous musicals and plays akin to what you would find in London’s West End (with cheap tickets available daily).

If you really want to get under the surface of this city that never sleeps in just 72 hours, you’re probably going to have to forego some sleep yourself. But then, chances are that you won’t want to miss a minute of the wonders this amazing place has to offer.

By Allan Boughey

If you really want to get under the surface of this city that never sleeps in just 72 hours, you’re probably going to have to forego some sleep yourself

FACTFILE >> From Newcastle International Airport, United Airlines offers five-times weekly nonstop service to its hub at New York/ Newark (23 May to 7 September, 2015), with onward connections to over 300 destinations across the Americas. Return fares from Newcastle to New York/Newark (including taxes) start from £518.19 (Economy) and £2,685.19 (BusinessFirst).

For latest prices, call 0845 8 444 777 or visit: www.united.com Hotel Beacon NYC, 2130 Broadway, New York, NY 10023. Phone: 212-787-1100. www.beaconhotel.com New York CityPASS gives you the freedom to explore iconic attractions including the Empire State Building, Guggenheim Museum, Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty. www.citypass.com/new-york Delmonico’s Kitchen, 207 West 36th Street, New York, NY 10018. www.delmonicosrestaurantgroup.com/ kitchen/ Beer Authority, 300 W. 40th St. (40 St/8 Av), Manhattan, NY 10018 www.beerauthoritynyc.com 230 Fifth, Corner 27th Street on 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10001 www.230-fifth.com For more information on visiting New York City go to: www.nycgo.com

It’s also champagne all the way (if you want it) with first-class five-course meals, featuring dishes such as fillet of beef and turbot as well as a cheese trolley, while the big seat-back screen in front of you offers the latest cinema releases.

It all helps to make the flight highly enjoyable. Newark is a great airport to arrive into, not least because the runway approach takes you all the way down the western side of Manhattan, affording breath-taking views of the city and its surroundings.

It really whets the appetite. Newark is also very easy to reach from the city. I took the Airtrain that will whisk you to Penn Station on 34th Street in just 30 minutes (or you can take a taxi, of course).

New York offers some of the world’s finest hotels but an excellent choice is the Beacon Hotel on Broadway and 74th Street in the Upper West Side. My room (in typically New York larger-than-life style, a bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and sitting room) was on the 20th floor with lovely uninterrupted views across Central Park and down to central Manhattan, which is around a 20-minute walk away.

New York is a great city to walk around but the public transport is easy to use (the subway system is good with regular trains, short walking distances and single rides costing $2.95) while the ubiquitous yellow taxis are good for nighttime trips, though most only take up to three passengers.

We ate at the more upscale Delmonico’s Kitchen, famous for its huge 20oz steaks and great seafood, and at Beer Authority with its array of craft beers and typical supersize American fare.

The Viand Café, next door to the Beacon,

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proved a great choice for breakfast (bagels with cream cheese and eggs over easy, you’ve got to….) with large helpings and friendly service.

The food and drink highlight of the trip was a late night visit to the glamorous 230 Fifth bar with its stunning outdoor terrace and views of the illuminated Empire State and Chrysler buildings.

Of course, no visit to New York would be complete without a trip up at least one of the city’s towers. For my money, the best view in town can be had from the Rockefeller Building – the Top of the Rock as it is known.

From here, the view south takes in the Empire State, One World Trade Centre, the Statue of Liberty and out to the open sea, while the view north takes in midtown Manhattan, Central Park and up-state.

The skies were clear for all three days of my trip but that icy wind was ever-present.

Though it did not spoil the several strolls I enjoyed through Central Park, often in order to reach two of the city’s most prestigious museums, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History.

You could spend a whole day, if not several days, in each so it’s best to do some advance planning to identify what you really do want to see. I also visited two other important museums, the Guggenheim (with its stunning architecture and interesting collection of 20th Century art) and the Museum of Modern Art, which boasts an array of work by Warhol, Rothko, Pollock, Picasso and many others.

Admission to major galleries and other attractions often costs $20 to $25 a time

Invest in Pescaglia, Tuscany LA POLLA IS CURRENTLY FOR SALE AT

¤395,000 (¤540,000 approx)

A 400 year old farmhouse for sale, La Polla has been renovated to a high standard without compromising its unique and historic charm. Although modernised, the farmhouse retains many original features including and old terracotta stove, terracotta floor tiles, chestnut beams and ancient wooden Tuscan main doors.

Enjoying a slightly elevated, South facing position, La Polla offers fabulous views across the hills and valley. Easily accessible, shops can be found minutes away in the village of Trebbio, while the coast of Viareggio and the nearest airport of Pisa can be found within an hour.

Accessed by a private road which winds through private woodland, the farmhouse can sleep 8 with 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Ideally suited as both a family home or a holiday home, there is plenty to enjoy, with a private infinity pool, an easily maintained garden and terrace for dining alfresco.

Whether purchased as a family home or a holiday home, there is much to explore when staying at La Polla. Why not take a daytrip to Florence (75 minutes) or explore Lucca, with its old city, renaissance architecture and thermal springs (25 minutes).

The beautiful town of Barga (30 minutes) is also worth a visit; especially its walled, medieval city, 13th century church and wonderful views across the Garfagnana Mountains.

For more information, please visit www.ownersdirect.co.uk using the Rightmove Overseas ref 126061, email argaunt@hotmail.co.uk or call 01642 612 204

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HAPPY LANDINGS

GLITZY DAYS Hip hotels with Debrah Dhugga Globe-trotting, hotel-hunting queen of the luxe suite, Debrah Dhugga is back with us. Passports ready, people…

Hello everyone!

I’ve been away for a while due to ill health – thank you all for your lovely messages – but I’m back with hotel-going vengeance! No time to waste, pack your suitcase.

First stop is South of France, what could be more perfect?

Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel & Spa looks out over the cobalt blue water of the Mediterranean and is the ultimate un-wind spot.

You can dip into the Riviera glam of Cannes. It’s all rather ‘yah’, but we all like a little of that now and again, so make sure your suitcase is packed with those jewelled sandals and gorgeous handbags!

If that gets too exhausting, this is the ultimate retreat.

A discreet 59-bedroom hideaway set into the cliffs, a ten-minute drive from the pretty fishing village of Théoulesur-Mer and close enough to Cannes for when you need that full-on glamour fix.

In its own coastal cove, it’s a blissful little spot where you can make the most of the enclosed gardens, pool and calm waters.

LAY YOUR HEAD >> Some 30 spacious interconnecting room and suite options mean it’s an ideal choice for families.

Interiors are luxurious, inspired by signature Mediterranean colours and design with an oriental touch. It’s glamorous, chic and rather special.

Best room > The Miramar Suite has two elegant lounges, a dining room, sophisticated double bedroom and pergola terrace; this is a gorgeous room. Breathtaking views over the blue of the Mediterranean and panoramas of the surrounding tropical gardens. The suite has direct lift access to the spa and private bay area. It’s rather special.

Very nice for honeymooners.

SIP & SNACK >> The Beach Bar is the pool and seaside spot for a cooling drink or refreshing beer or as I enjoyed, some fabulous de-tox smoothies. The informal atmosphere is perfect for day time relaxation before candlelight and cocktails in the evening, with a DJ mixing laidback music in a spectacular water-side setting. The evening by the sea on the terrace is beautiful so peaceful it feels heavenly. G&T and fabulous seafood canapés come highly recommended.

DINE >> Situated on the 4th floor, the Bistrot M offers uninterrupted sea views, and an opportunity to discover the specialties of Provence. With a menu of hand-picked ingredients, food is accompanied by delicious local wines.

For Cote d’Azur vistas, the more formal L’Or Bleu is an intimate choice for evenings. Located at the top of the cove with sensational panoramic views, Chef Fabrice Giraud creates spectacular gourmet Mediterranean dishes in a dreamy sea-meets-sky setting.

If you’re a seafood lover you must have the prawns, they are simply amazing grilled to your liking.

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DO THIS >> Go shopping along Cannes’ La Croisette, visit the local daily flower market or drive to the medieval hilltop village of Saint-Paul de Vence, which inspired Picasso and Matisse.

To be honest though, few things beat just lying by the pool looking over the sea being served cocktails. Fabulous and a perfect people-watching spot.

SPA TIME >> I tried a fabulous treatment that was totally relaxing; the spa area is small but there is a great treatment menu and hairdressing can also be arranged. For sporty folk there’s a mixture of facilities, tennis courts, table tennis and fully equipped gym. Massages can be organised in the gardens of the hotel, and can be customised to suit your needs.

EAT LOCAL >> Aux Bons Enfants is lovely for a fun evening offering traditional Provencal cooking. Close to the Forville market, it is a tiny, local bistro with a daily market menu. Owner Luc Giorsetti – the third generation of Giorsettis – has no phone or fax. He accepts neither cheques nor credit cards but you can book in person and pay by cash.

Food highlights include classics like aioli, daube of beef, brandade of cod and traditional local fish delicacies.

Find it at 80 Rue Meynardier, Cannes www.aux-bons-enfants.com FILL YOUR BASKET >> Forville market can be reached by walking up the Rue Gazagnaire, nearly opposite the bus station. There is also

one hour free parking at the Forville car park. In the market you will find a riot of colour, smells and tastes with flowers, fish, fruit and vegetables.

Gambetta market is at the other end of town, walk past the railway station going east along Rue Jean Jaures to Place Gambetta. In addition to all the great foods here you will also find clothes, shoes, jewellery and leather goods.

La Bocca market is a short bus ride away, Ligne 1 or 20.

Fish, flowers, fruit and veg, deli counters etc can be found here.

WOW FACTOR >> The hotel can organise transfers by boat or helicopter.

For a day to remember, you can set sail in the morning from the hotel beach then head for the beaches of the Lerins Islands with a picnic lunch at the beach with your personal maître d’.

Return to a couples’ massage and finish the day with dinner in the private gardens with a sea view. About as romantic as it gets!

GET THERE >> Nice is the closest airport, fly direct from Newcastle with easyJet, transfer is approx. 30 minutes.

Details > Nightly rates at Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel & Spa start from €160 based on two sharing and €€450 for a family of four in a junior suite seaview room on a B&B basis.

Tiara Miramar Beach Hotel & Spa 47 Avenue de Miramar, 06590 Théoule-sur-Mer, France www.miramar-beachspa.tiara-hotels.com

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LUXE LIFE

LOUISE WHITE

Louise White is co-owner of Cobblestone women’s fashion store in Stokesley, North Yorkshire which she and her mum Anne run. The store stocks brands such as Penny Black, A Postcard from Brighton and Two Danes. Louise is married and has three small children

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > My husband’s family have a beach hut off the South Coast near Christchurch. It’s absolutely magical and the children love it too. Waking up there on a morning overlooking the deserted beach is amazing!

A long holiday > I love Italy; in fact I love everything about it - the people, the food, the shops, the architecture.

We’ve visited many areas and had some memorable times there but one of my favourite places has to be Verona, it’s such a great city and watching opera by candlelight in the amphitheatre was spellbinding.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I love Asian cuisine especially Thai food.

Best wine > I can’t resist a glass of prosecco but come the winter months you’ll find me with a good pinot noir.

Favourite restaurant > The Crab and Lobster at Asenby. I love the selection of seafood and The Crab club sandwich is something else on a lunchtime!

Perfect weekend > A crazy Saturday morning tucked up in

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bed watching cartoons with the kids, brunch with the girls followed by a spot of retail therapy and rounded off with dinner with my husband Tom. Sundays would have to be a lovely walk preferably along the beach (we spend a lot of time at Saltburn) followed by a huge Sunday lunch with the whole family and finished off with our usual family film night – complete with popcorn.

Downtime means > Relaxing with a gin and tonic, flicking through a good magazine.

Best telly > I don’t get much time to watch telly but I love Gogglebox.

Best theatre > The last theatre production I saw was To Kill A Mockingbird.

Best book > The Sister’s Brothers by Patrick De Witt. I really didn’t expect to like this book; we read it at my fabulous book club but I absolutely loved it!

Best sounds > I’m currently hooked on Spotify. What an ingenious idea! I especially love the playlist selection – find the playlist to match your mood!

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > I have a huge soft spot for Leeds as I lived there for 12 years. It’s a great sized city with everything in easy walking distance and a wide variety of shops, bars, cafes etc.

Favourite shop > Cobblestone of course. Followed in a swift second place by Harvey Nichols.

Luxe retail treat > I love candles, I have them all over the house. I think smells are really evocative and a good candle can make/change an atmosphere.

Best buy > The Joseph black leather jacket that I bought with my first pay cheque after graduating – it’s still going strong 16 years later.

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Cocktails, dancing, good friends.

Perfect party > An alfresco party in the warmth of the summer, surrounded by good people and even better wine.

Best dress > This probably changes by the week depending on my most recent find. Because mum and I do the buying for the shop six months before the stock comes into store, I always have an idea of the styles which are coming in for the season ahead. We are about to start the buying for spring/summer 2016, so hopefully I’ll find a few gems to add to my wardrobe for next summer!

Dinner date > My husband Tom or my best friends as I don’t get to see them half as much as I would like.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> My children and husband, my family, my Ipad and my subscription to Grazia magazine.

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES Seeing the light Sunny orangeries make it summertime whatever the calendar says. This is from a range at Aanco where prices start from around ÂŁ15,000. www.aanco.co.uk

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BOW WOW FACTOR

POSH POOCHES with Alfie, helped by Elysia Agnew

Alfie is our posh pooch and out and about on location this summer.

The super-stylish golden retriever from Hutton Rudby enjoys chasing rocks, swimming in the river and a treaty holiday to the Lakes with his pet pals.

Alfie recently kicked off his summer fun with his friends and fellow villagers, Henry and Holly, as they were let loose in the Lake District.

The wet and windy weather didn’t ruffle the fur as Alfie hopped through the forests, skipped through fields and jumped into every single lake.

Alfie and his friends enjoyed a Lake District pub-crawl after hours of dipping in and out of Esthwaite Water. Starting at The Kings Head, Hawkshead, a dog-friendly pub perfect for a quick break and a hearty bowl of water. Then on to The Red Lion, Hawskhead where he chilled out in front of the fire to dry off after his fun-filled day of swimming.

Alfie’s poochy pub-crawl finished at The Queens Head, Hawkshead, a very doggy-friendly and welcoming spot to kick off those walking boots and unwind. Alfie snoozed the afternoon away at the feet of a pianist who played relaxing music to top off a wonderful day of walkies.

>> Get your paws on this Friday night hamper this summer. Holidays are for treats so chill out in front of the fire with your doggy beer, popcorn and a box of yummy duck treats. Happiness in hamper-size. www.urbanpoochboutique.com

Dog’s Life with Alfie LUXE WALKS >> Carlton Bank, running through the woods, jumping in the ponds and bumping into doggy friends at the Lord Stones Cafe.

LUXE DOGGY HOLS >> I love nothing more than a trip to the Lakes. The walks are never ending and I love the reward of a big bowl of tasty water and a treat or two from the bar staff at doggy-friendly pubs.

DOGGY DOWNTIME >> Downtime is snoozing under the coffee table with my favourite teddy when all of the family are home after a long walk through the fields chasing rocks and sticks.

scrambled eggs for breakfast before a long rock hunt through the fields.

>> Your pooch can enjoy some summer fun while you are away soaking up the summer sun elsewhere…

North East pups can look forward to their home-from-home holidays with no tears and tantrums thanks to dog holidays expert foursome, Barking Mad. No more kennels, you’ll know exactly where your dog is going, who their holiday buddy will be, and you will see them settle down in their brand new holiday location. Meet with your doggy carer in advance in your own home where they can find out all they need to know about your pooch’s needs. www.barkingmad.uk.com

s e k i l e i f l A >> POPARTED… transform your pets into original works of pop art to suit your own interior. A perfectly bespoke puppy portrait is something a little different- and a great gift for yourself or a fellow dog lover. www.poparted.co.uk

DOG’S BEST FRIEND >> I should say my girl human, Elysia, but I have to say girlfriend, Bella. I spend most weekends with Bella and have looked after her since she was a tiny puppy. We love beach walks, swimming (even the smallest of puddles) and Sunday morning treks up the Cleveland hills.

FONDEST DOGGY MEMORY >> The humans had friends coming round one Saturday evening and I nipped out for a quick walk first and scampered off.

Until then I never knew what a bog was ... see the picture below! I was a half-white/ half-black retriever.

DOGGY HABITS >> I admit an obsession with rocks. A pooch of many habits, my love for rocks definitely tops them all. I get a bit growly if I don’t return from a walk with an overly sized rock wedged between my teeth. In fact I sulk like a small human until I get one.

POOCH’S PERFECT DAY OUT >> A day out with girlfriend Bella, a labradoodle from Stokesley. We enjoy chasing the waves together on Saltburn Beach followed by sneaking in a scrap or two at the chippy. I’m a good date.

PUPPY PAMPER >> Being a rugged retriever I don’t tend to check in at the salon very often, but on my last visit I was mistaken for another Alfie dog and was completely shaved.

I looked like a huge, fat seal but my family still loved me. I’m as fluffy as ever now!

POOCH’S PALATE >> Believe it or not, chunky as I am, I am not a massive eater but I do enjoy

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PUPPY A-LISTER (WHO WOULD YOUR POOCH BE IF HE/SHE WERE A CELEBRITY)? >> Boisterous and slightly camp at times, I’d be Louie Spence.

A PUPPY TREAT >> Hmmm... a chew stick maybe but you can’t go wrong with a brand new teddy bear or a hearty sized rock.

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XXXXXXXX BIGGER LUXE

WELCOME!

Summer fun for our growing girl

Well it’s happened. I am officially now seven years old! I’ve been waiting for this moment for seven whole years and now it’s finally here.

Luxe has marked the big occasion with a new photo for my page – look how much I’ve changed since my last one! Lots of my teeth have fallen out and I’m concentrating on growing some big new ones that I’m trying hard to keep nice and clean with my flashing toothbrush (it’s got a panda floating inside with some glittery water!) In fact this Little Luxe will become Junior Luxe in September when I leave the infants and move up into my new class – I’m really excited but a little nervous too!

with Nina Robinson

Nina’s diary >> THROUGHOUT THE SUMMER From Sunderland to Wonderland… The Beach House Bistro, which overlooks Roker seafront, is celebrating the 150th anniversary of Alice in Wonderland with a series of events dedicated to the Lewis Carroll classic. From cupcake decorating and creative writing to a Mad Hatter’s tea party and treasure hunt, there’ll be plenty to keep Little Luxes enthralled.

For details visit Facebook: The Beach House Sunderland >> JULY&AUG Dance City runs cool workshops for summer Matilda is one of them and Urban Dance another. Try out new skills and have some fun.

Dancecity.co.uk >> JULY 18 – 20 Learn about Viking life and hear tales of terror and turmoil during Viking Lives and Times at Lindisfarne Priory. Find out how the rugged Northumberland coast was under frequent attack from marauding Vikings and how Holy Island took a major battering. Adults £6, children £4.

English-heritage.org.uk >> AUGUST 5 -7 Ditch the digital TV, abandon the iPad and head to Whitley Bay Playhouse for some real, live entertainment as Peter Pan the musical soars to the stage. £14 and £12 for concessions. playhousewhitleybay.co.uk

>> AUGUST 18 AND 19 Sneak in a bit of a history lesson with a lot of fun with a play at Warkworth Castle looking at the importance of the Magna Carta in the 21st Century. Warkworth’s Lord John FitzRobert was one of the signatories of the historic document, which is celebrating its 800th anniversary this summer. Adults £6, children £3.50.

English-heritage.org.uk

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Little Luxe x

Birthday postcard from Nina

Save Beauty!

I celebrated my birthday with a pony party and all my best friends came along to join in.

This year is going to be the best so far – I can tell!

Nina loves >> How much fun does this colour-in picnic blanket look? It’s washable and comes with a set of fabric pens to keep little hands busy during trips to the park and the beach. Afterwards the whole thing can go straight into the washing machine and comes out good as new ready for next time! £34.99 from eggnog.co.uk

>> Mad for Minions We’re all mad for Minions at my school and we’re silly about Stompeez so I love these awesome slippers that have been launched just in time for the new movie! As you walk about, Dave the Minion comes alive, flapping his hands up and down!

They’re £14.99 from HighStreetTV.com

Have you heard? Beauty has been captured by the Wicked Queen at the Alnwick Garden and needs our help to be rescued!

I joined in the hunt for Beauty just after the garden opened its newest attraction – a fairy tale adventure inspired by Grimm’s childhood favourites.

Solving clues along the way, we discovered everything from a singing bench and secret doors to magic mirrors and a cloud of fairies.

Live actors playing fairy tale characters were never far away to get involved.

If you want to really get into character you even get to choose your own fairy tale outfit to wear for the challenge. I was happy with my own dress but my mum and big sister couldn’t resist wearing crowns!

If you need another reason to visit the magical garden this summer this is definitely it!

Style notes

>> Little Luxe loves, loves, loves the gorgeous new Jade Collection from Isossy Kids. This label is all about creating a ‘global kids’ look, fusing together African and Asian influences to create an effortlessly edgy and glamorous wardrobe.

The new season’s collection is full of heritage prints, block colours and draping silhouettes.

Check out the full range at isossychildren.com

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SAND IDEA

JOINING THE DOTS A delayed flight and a cocktail bar were the magic ingredients for creating a feel-good business in the North east

It’s funny how things work out. About a year and a half ago, one of my best friends, a native New Yorker named Jeremy had a birthday. Jeremy is one of my closest friends and we have come to know each other through spending literally thousands of hours together, fighting each other on the mats of the Renzo Gracie Brazilian Jiu-jitsu academy in New York.

I arranged for the two of us to spend a (not so quiet) weekend in South Beach, Miami.

The South Beach neighbourhood of Miami Beach glitters with nightlife – all day long. It is trendy and quirky and just a fun place to be. Yes, it attracts the rich, famous and beautiful but it now is recognized around the world as worthy of a stay or a visit by everyone. From the beaches to the historic Art Deco architecture or the fine Oceanside dining, it really has it all. Outside of the rainy season, the weather is beautiful and overall, there is just a great vibe, a sort of sophisticated cool.

We set out on our journey from New York to Miami. We were flying from La Guardia airport where we arrived to the news that thunder storms were rolling in and predicting at least a three-hour delay. Very frustrating when you have a short weekend trip planned and are hoping to hit the bars and clubs in Miami that evening.

The only thing we could do was to head to one of the many bars and attempt to get the party started early.

We ordered the first of many cocktails. It seems like the whole terminal had the same idea as before long, there seemed to be a party going on. The music was blaring and a number of amazing conversations ensued.

Amidst them all, I met a young couple sitting at the end of the bar and we began a great conversation about life, love and the universe.

We spent quite a while discussing new business ideas when out of nowhere, the gentleman I was chatting to produced a rough but working prototype of an idea that he’d had.

In essence, it was a phone case that also acted as a natural amplifier and speaker system.

I immediately saw the potential in this idea and after a few more cocktails, I suggested that I knew how to turn this

>> Music for good: Tony Larkin of Music vs Cancer battery life drained even more. It’s a good-looking phone case that fits easily into your pocket and doubles the volume of your phone.

Importantly, what started as a drunken conversation in an airport bar in New York, has now evolved into an exciting new business based in the North East of England!

The journey from initial idea to where we are today has been both interesting and challenging. Early on in the

What started as a drunken conversation in an airport bar in New York, has now evolved into an exciting new business based in the North East of England

we are very proud of this partnership.

We’re really proud of Louda. More importantly however, has been the journey and the lessons we’ve learned along the way.

When I was at business school in the United States, I read a book entitled ‘Never Eat Alone’ written by Keith Ferrazzi.

It’s a great book about seizing every opportunity to meet people and the power of relationships. There is a lot of wisdom in this book. I’m thinking of following it up with a book entitled ‘Never Drink Alone’. It seems like there is some wisdom in this advice too! www.loudaproducts.com and follow us on Facebook at Facebook/loud Follow me on Twitter: @dan_gusrob Follow me on Instagram: danrobinson2009

fantastic idea into a viable business proposition.

We shook hands, exchange details and at some point that evening, caught a flight to Miami.

The rest of the weekend was a little hazy but in those couple of hours that we spent in that bar at La Guardia airport, my latest business venture was born.

Like I said, it’s funny how things work out.

So, say hello to Louda: a new slim-line protective phone case but with one enormous difference. By using clever acoustic technology that is built into the case, we manage to manipulate the air coming out of the inbuilt speakers, channel it, accelerate it and then give it an outlet.

This acts as a natural amplifier and speaker system that doubles the volume of your phone.

It’s perfect for listening to music when you are travelling or at home, it can be used for on-the-go conference calling, watching movies or videos and is also superb for those of us who use our phones for navigation when we are driving.

Herein lies the crux of Louda’s appeal and utility. What is so very cool about this great product is that no longer do you need to buy expensive speakers, waste money on batteries or even have your (what is already frustratingly poor)

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process, I realised that with my many existing commitments, I was going to need some help. Funnily enough, it was over another cocktail that I was introduced to a new business partner and friend. Chey Garland CBE is a well-known businesswoman in the region. Over the past couple of years Chey and I have worked together to develop Louda as a business that has its roots firmly in the North East.

Furthermore, Louda has also partnered with a very cool local charity called Music vs Cancer (MvC).

MvC is a registered charity and the brain child of Tony Larkin. It is run entirely by an amazing group of volunteers and has gained support from some of the world’s leading musicians who together, have joined forces to harness the power of music to fight cancer.

Their goal is simple; to raise awareness of cancer symptoms amongst as many people as possible in the hope of saving lives. Additionally, they also fund vital cutting-edge cancer detecting machinery and have already helped to pay for vital machinery to help detect the early stages of bowel cancer.

For every Louda case that is sold, a proportion of the proceeds goes to this fantastic charity and

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LUXE LOVES

LUXE LOVES A sexy screen If you love a skinny screen you’ll lust after the sleek Sony X90C series for your box-set pleasures.

A 4.9mm thinness makes for picture-perfect viewing as images appear to float before your eyes so you’re hardly aware of the TV screen. Careful then if you’re watching 50 Shades. From £2,599.

Peter Tyson, Kingston Retail Park, Newcastle 0191 285 7179

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golf:kit Plan for autumn days and playing places in the sun

GOLF COACH WITH JOHN HARRISON

PLAY & STAY >>

FESTIVAL TIME >> START THE DAY WITH A DIP Cutting-edge design is key to Las Colinas Golf & Country Club near Alicante, Spain.

The resort has been shortlisted amongst Spain and Europe’s elite for this year’s World Travel Awards, named in both Spain’s Leading Villa Resort and Europe’s Leading Villa Resort categories.

So expect stunning architectural design with great food and drink plus new leisure experiences.

New luxury villas have superb views across the golf course and towards the coast. The Spanish resort, located south of Alicante is in 330 hectares of Mediterranean woodland.

Named as one of Europe’s Top 100 Courses, the tranquil setting is also home to a Golf Academy, tennis and paddle tennis courts and gymnasium.

Away from sport, Las Colinas Golf & Country Club also boasts an ocean-front beach club, the International School of Falconry, renowned Japanese restaurant enso sushibar, nature trails through 200,000 square metres of natural space and Las Colinas. www.aworldapart.es

It’s the Scottish golf coast that’s a neighbour to the North East.

The dramatic and unspoilt East Lothian coast plays host to its inaugural golfing festival later this year.

Enjoy a week-long series of events from 18–24 October and play some of the world’s finest links courses with the heritage of a golf destination popular since 1672.

Three professional events take place: the first-ever Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open Pre-Qualifier at North Berwick; Gullane Golf Club welcomes the Aberdeen Asset Management Scottish Open; and the Scottish Senior Open will be hosted at Archerfield Links.

With 22 must-play courses, stretching along 30 miles of coastline, and all just 40 or so minutes from Berwick, the area is known as the sunniest and driest in Scotland, making it the perfect place for autumn golf. www.golfeastlothian.com

2 STAY HYDRATED Make sure you drink water or something with electrolytes in the morning so you’re starting with a full tank, I always tell people to take a drink of water in between the green and the tee, make it a part of your routine. If you do that 18 times, you’re going to stay fairly hydrated.

3 AVOID UV RAYS

If you’re a mid-to-high handicapper, don’t spend 30 minutes of your round crunching through desert foliage for lost balls, know when your ball is gone! Conserve your energy and say goodbye to that lucky Titleist.

5 FIND SHADE Even if you are playing well and your ball is down the middle of the fairway, you might want to walk at the edge of the fairways or in the rough to take advantage of some shade from the trees. This will help cool you down between shots.

MASTER STROKE >>

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Don’t just worry about bunkers and water hazards, find out what your club has to offer for on-course food and drinks.

Many of us forget that a 10am tee time will mean that we will miss lunch, it is important to keep your sugar levels constant.

4 DON’T SEARCH

CHILL-OUTS >>

SOOTHE ME >>

1 STUDY YOUR COURSE

Make sure you wear sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses. Wear light fabrics and light colours to reflect the sun. Don’t forget with the sun and wind use an SPF-enhanced lip balm.

>> Comfy gear for those driving range moments…

Blue crew T-Shirt £35, black sweat pant, £60, Bjorn Borg at House of Fraser

Ramside Hall’s new spa caters for the green-weary golfers from the tip of their toes to the stretched shoulders.

The spa’s Golfer’s Tonic is aimed at helping soothe aching muscles after a hard day on the green, a Stress Buster massage for anyone who suffers with tension headaches and neck strain and Heaven on Earth is a package for men which includes a back exfoliation and hot stone back massage.

All of the special treatments can be built in to a spa day or a spa stay or with one of the hotel’s existing golf packages. www.ramsidespa.co.uk

Summer golf is upon us here in the UK (well it’s sunny as I’m typing today) and I know that we golfers often like to head to sunnier shores when the British summer lets us down, but there will be no need if it stays like this. Before teeing up during the summer, you need to keep in mind a few of these top tips to get the most out of your game:

One for the diary as the Northern Golf Masters returns to Rockliffe later this year.

The best amateur golfer in the North of England will be crowned at Rockliffe Hall for the fourth year running, this time as part of the Durham County scratch event schedule.

The NGM has become part of the prestigious County Scratch Order of Merit which means that the top 20 County Durham competitors at this final qualifying event of the season will receive between 125 and five ranking points to add to their final Order of Merit total for 2015.

Category one golfers from across the North East, North Yorkshire and Cumbria with a handicap of five or below are now invited to apply to enter with places this year limited to 42. Entries can be made via www.rockliffehall.com/golf/northern-golf-masters/ This year’s NGM will be held on Sunday 13 September and entrants will compete over 36 holes. Golfers from across Teesside, County Durham, Yorkshire, Tyne and Wear, Northumberland and Cumbria can represent their club and compete to be named the number one amateur golfer in the North of England.

The scratch tournament is for category one golfers and adopts the format of a professional tour event with first tee announcements, caddies and up-to-the-minute live scoring.

6 PLAY EARLY/PLAY LATE With the early sun rises and lovely long summer evenings you can enjoy the peace and tranquillity of most courses by being among the first and last tee times.

7 ENJOY SOME FAMILY TIME Not every round has to be focussed on bringing your handicap down – look to clubs like ours that have Par 3/Easy Golf courses, it will not only give you the opportunity to fine tune your game, but it will get the family involved in your passion for the game.

8 KICK BACK AT THE 19TH HOLE No round of summer golf would be complete without a refreshing drink back at the clubhouse where you can relax and plan your next golfing venture. A refreshing pint to reward yourself or pick you up!

I hope you all have an enjoyable summer of golf, with good weather and results for us all!

For more information about Easy Golf, call Matfen Hall 01661 886 400.

John Harrison, European Senior Tour player and Matfen Hall Head Professional, Matfen Hall Hotel Golf and Spa www.matfenhall.com tel: 01661 886400

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GO FASTER

ROB SMEDLEY Rob Smedley is a familiar name to F1 fans as Head of Vehicle Performance at the Williams Martini Racing Formula One team.

Middlesbrough-born and bred, Rob was race engineer for Felipe Massa at Ferrari.

You might have heard the pair as guests on the Chris Evans breakfast show recently.

Rob is noted for his frank and funny radio transmissions to Massa, most famously at the 2009 Malaysian Grand Prix when he was heard saying “Felipe baby, stay cool.”

He is currently based in Oxford where he lives with wife Lucy and boys Frankie, six and Felix, four LUXE PEOPLE >> My wife Lucy, my kids and the rest of my extended family. I travel a lot and live in a world that’s not entirely realistic or doesn’t really resonate well with the ‘normal’ things in life most of the time. As such I need my wife Lucy and kids to keep my head straight. She is my rock and my guide as well as being my best friend. We are in turn very close with both sets of parents and siblings. Family is a really important part of my life. I also have some close friends that I’ve had for many years who I really enjoy spending time with.

LUXE PLACES >> For a weekend > Tokyo. This is an amazing city, truly out of this world. Colour, noise, culture and a nightlife like you can’t believe. Lucy and I went there last year for a long weekend before the Japanese Grand Prix and stayed in the Park Hyatt. I’d always wanted to stay in that hotel since I saw it on the film “Lost In Translation” with Bill Murray. The hotel is just stunning. Pure luxury and a sense of serenity that is other worldly. Close by in Shinjuku there is a small area called Golden Gai where there are some of the best bars in the world. Tiny, tiny places with a hugely eclectic crowd and simply the best atmosphere ever. The place literally never goes to bed.

A long holiday > Perth in Australia. We have family there and so we love to go and stay with them. We tend to go in the winter around Christmas time which is their summer so it’s really nice to get some sunshine. The place itself is really cool and laid back with that whole surf and city vibe going on. There are beaches which are really perfect for ocean swimming and lots to do for the kids. I really love the outdoor lifestyle they have. Mostly though it’s an opportunity for some downtime and to be together with our family.

A treat > Saltburn by the sea eating fish and chips. Can’t do it that often but when we can it’s such a special treat.

It’s really nostalgic for me and in turn the fish&chips are the best in the world! If I can squeeze in a pint of Black Sheep afterwards whilst looking out onto the sea then I’m even happier.

LUXE RELAX >> Best food > I’m trying to think of something to make me sound sophisticated but the reality is my favourite food is house special curry with fried rice and a portion of chips from the Chinese takeaway. Every now and again on a Saturday evening when it’s not a GP weekend and we’ve got the kids in bed I’ll pop to the local takeaway and order this king of dishes! When we first met, Lucy bought me this exact dish one Sunday night and it was the first time a girl had ever paid for me - I loved her for it.

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JUL/AUG15

CLOSE SHAVE Best wine > I’m not really a wine drinker to be honest. Ask me about beer….

Favourite restaurant > Hakkasan in the Emirates Palace, Abu Dhabi. We visit Abu Dhabi every year with the F1 circus and Lucy and I always manage to sneak off to this place for dinner one of the evenings. The food is stupendous; a modern take on Chinese food with a couple of Michelin stars thrown in. We get a table on the outside terrace which overlooks the Emirati corniche. The dim sum is out of this world so we always share that along with other really amazing dishes. My mam and dad are coming to Abu Dhabi with us this year for the GP in November so I’m hoping that they might babysit the kids one night so we can get to Hakkasan…

Perfect weekend > No Formula 1 racing but lots of time with my family. Start on Friday night with the boys for a few beers in London’s east end. Saturday morning at the local picture house with the kids watching a film (they sometimes put classics on from when I was my children’s age) followed by wandering round the museums or something to keep the kids entertained. We usually end up in the pub in Jericho in Oxford at around tea time and have a few drinks and something to eat before bundling the kids home and to bed. Sunday is all about chilling out together, the papers and eating a good Sunday roast with friends.

Downtime means > Switching off and remembering what is important.

Best telly > I really like either very well written dramas or very well written documentaries. I think that the depth of talent we have in Great Britain in the TV industry is remarkable and something we should all be really proud of.

I thought that Shane Meadows’ This Is England was absolutely excellent TV and a real showcase for British talent. Red Riding was equally outstanding and did a lot of justice to the books. Really dark, emotive TV. The BBC and Channel 4 just keep throwing out better and better stuff.

I’m a bit of a knowledge-aholic too so good documentaries always catch my attention. Louis Theroux is a genius in the way he tells a story and takes you on his particular journey whilst at the same time allowing you to decide on how you feel about the subject. Not an easy thing for a film maker to do.

Best book > The best books I have ever read have to be David Peace’s Red Riding Quartet (1974, 1977, 1980 and 1983). He is an exceptional talent. It was referred to as Yorkshire Noir and I think this sums it up perfectly. I really loved his take on the Miner’s Strike in GB84. Incredibly powerful writing. Gordon Burn is another great British writer (he was also a solid North Easterner!). Happy Like Murderers was an outstanding piece of work. Its genius is that it takes you there and holds onto you. If I want something a little more light-hearted then Hunter S Thompson is the man. I sometimes have to break off from reading because I laugh so hard. Brett Easton Ellis (American Psycho, Rules of Attraction) is another good author to have in my briefcase for the long haul flights.

Best sounds > My wife finds it hilarious that I still love all the music from the late 80s and early 90s but it’s still the best era for music ever. Fact. Stone Roses, Happy Mondays, The Las, The Charlatans. Great bands that changed the face of music. This is the music that I grew up listening to and I have so many good memories from that time which I put to the music. I saw the ‘Roses lots of times and had a thoroughly good time doing so. Their first album still sounds as great today as it did more than 25 years ago (is it really that long ago?). I’m a little less ready to change the world today so I also listen to stuff like Florence,

Bon Iver, Richard Hawley. If it’s good music I’ll give it a whirl.

LUXE SHOP >> Best shopping city > London. You can pretty much get everything you want there on any budget. I can be in the middle of it all in less than an hour so it’s also really convenient too. I’m not a big shopper however and tend to buy a lot of stuff on the spur of the moment without having planned on doing so.

Favourite shop > I’ve got two. The first is “& Other Stories”.

It’s a woman’s fashion store on Regent’s Street which does really nice clothes for girls. There is only one in the UK. The reason why I like it so much is twofold; it’s my wife’s favourite shop so if we are in there then she is happy and if we are in there it means I’m having a day off work. Fairly good compromise in my eyes.

My other favourite shop is Psyche on Linthorpe Road in Middlesbrough. I travel far and wide around the world and I can firmly say that the people of Middlesbrough are really cool. They have their own style and very much their own outlook on things. I think Psyche reflects that whole thing really well. They have loads of great collections whether you want to dress up or down and the prices are really good too!

LUXE RETAIL TREAT >> The mad sprees I talked about earlier. Not really sure why but I tend to get into a zone every now and again where I go a bit mental. Afterwards I feel a little bit guilty but the feeling of elation while I’m on the spending spree far outweighs it!

Best buy > A Smythson travel wallet. With all the travelling I do this has been the stalwart of my briefcase for many years. It holds my passport, loyalty cards, driving licence and boarding pass. I’ve had it for more than 10 years and it’s such good quality that it still looks great. It was actually given to me by my mate as a gift for being his best man so it’s not actually a “best buy” but you get the idea…

LUXE PARTY >> A memorable night out > Ah, way too many to mention. They shouldn’t be entirely memorable either in my opinion…

Perfect party > Surrounded by family and friends. Maybe a big house in the country for the weekend where we could all relax and have fun together. A really good drinks selection with plenty of real ale on tap. Finger food as there’s not enough time for formal dining. The sound system playing all my favourite tunes as a reasonable enough volume that we don’t all have to shout in each other’s faces but still loud enough to inspire a bit of dancing. Buzzing round the room catching up with friends and family and generally laughing. No one trying to hog me for elongated periods of time and an absolute ban on talking about Formula 1!

Dinner date > Lucy, my wife, who else? I’m actually a really private person and I tend to reserve myself for just my family and close friends. Lucy understands me better than anyone and we have a really close connection. I really love being in her company and we’ve always got so much to talk about as there’s always a million things going on.

Sitting with her over a really good dinner and a few drinks is just perfect.

THE CUT THROAT CLUB! IN THE MAN CORNER WITH REEF SALONS

SUMMER IS UPON US AND WITH IT BRINGS A WHOLE NEW STYLE This season its all about the Faux Hawk. The forward fringe has been a popular trend throughout 2015 and this twist on the classic Mohawk brings the look together.

This look can be adapted to suit all face shapes and hair types and can be worn in a variety of different ways to suit the occasion. The perfect style to ensure you are at the top of your game this season.

TO BEARD OR NOT TO BEARD? That is the question we are repeatedly hearing in the man corner. Last season the trend of being bearded was at max-capacity with seemingly every man with the ability to grow facial hair doing so! With temperatures on the rise, is it time to put the beard away for the summer? YES is the answer. A recent ebay fashion survey found that more than half of the women they spoke to wished that there were fewer beards out there. With a smarter than casual style this summer, it is time to leave the beards behind... for now.

YOUR LUXE THING IN LIFE >> Family time.

MEET THE MAN >> Meet Rob at a gala evening in August in aid of children’s charity Zoë’s Place.

The event at Wynyard Hall in on August 1 will include a dinner and a charity auction with exclusive Formula One themed memorabilia up for grabs.

Rob and wife Lucy have been patrons of Zoë’s Place for four years. The charity’s hospices provide ‘home from home’ environments for babies and infants aged from birth to five years old who have life limiting or life threatening conditions. As the only baby specific hospices in the UK, Zoë’s Place offer palliative, respite and end of life care completely free of charge and ongoing support to families.

“We initially got involved with Zoë’s Place after finding out that it was a struggling charity doing amazing work for poorly babies and children,” says Rob. To book tickets contact Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice on 01642 457985 or Elaine Dunning on 07584324460 or Victoria Rogers 07967777881. Email elaine@zoes-place.org.uk or victoria.rogers@zoes-place.org.uk Tickets are £65 per person or £ 85 per person for a Pole Position Table located close to the stage.

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Reef Salons, Bannatyne Health Club, Belmont, Durham 0191 386 3055.

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DRIVETIME

AT THE WHEEL Motors man Bob Arora plays with some serious cars

One hot cat

Jaguar’s new factory has risen to the occasion with a new verve for life and the XE model that makes Bob purr with pleasure

My earliest memory of a Jaguar was sitting in my uncle’s XJ and the pouncing big cat sitting proudly on the front of the bonnet. It just looked so cool to a young boy.

Sitting in his XJ was out of this world; the carpets were thick pile and the leather just had the most amazing smell ever.

The dashboard was made up of the finest wood and the car as a whole just screamed luxury.

Another memory that sticks in my mind is him filling up his XJ and the twin tanks; he would literally fill both sides of the car up. Unusual yes, but to a young lad it was like something from a sci-fi movie. I loved the smell of petrol as well - no wonder I have become a true petrolhead!

Jaguar though, hasn’t been good at making small cars.

The X-type was a terrible looking car, based on the Ford Mondeo.

The X-type managed to ruin the brand and it really did Jaguar no favours at all. It looked like a scaled down version of the XJ and it wasn’t cool or ground-breaking at all. The market is dominated by the BMW 3-series and the Mercedes C Class and Jaguar can’t afford a half-hearted attempt at this all-important market again.

With the new XE they appear to be making all of the right noises. It’s a rear wheel drive with a four wheel drive version in the pipeline. A new factory has been built to make the cars meaning new engines and vitally, new jobs, as the four wheel drive version of the XE will be made in the new factory.

At first glance you’d be forgiven for mistaking the XE for the existing XF model. Upon closer inspection though, the XE is

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lower, longer and wider and looking at the front of the car it is pure Jaguar. The mean, aggressive lights mirroring the spying eyes of the cat after which it is named. It seems the designers put all the nastiness into the front end as the back is quite uninspiring.

The car overall looks very sporty with large, thick alloy wheels and subtle, yet noticeable curves in the bodywork.

Aluminium has been used extensively in the XE with only the boot floor and the suspension sub frame sitting on steel. Despite this extensive use of aluminium the XE weighs the same as its arch rival, the 3-series.

This was partly due to the use of technically advanced multi-link suspension. The XE is being launched with two diesel engines and three petrol engines.

The engines’ BHP ranges from 161 all the way up to 325 for the range-topping 3LT engine with the high-powered diesel engine expected to be the bestseller. It’s fairly rapid reaching 62mph in 7.4 seconds and maxes out at an impressive top speed of 142 mph.

A 6-speed manual comes as standard and an 8-speed automatic gearbox is an additional option at £1750, a choice I expect most people to take up.

The manual gearbox is on par with BMW’s but the automatic feels ideally suited to the XE with perfect ratios and quick, smooth gear changes.

Step inside the car and you will notice both the dash and steering wheel have been taken straight from the F Type.

They say imitation is the best form of flattery though and it doesn’t look out of place here. The 8” touchscreen which controls the Sat-Nav features sharp graphics and an easy to use and understand interface.

One good feature is the ability to use your phones apps via the touchscreen – ideal for the business audience that Jaguar likes to target.

The car’s self-parking function was very accurate and a great toy to show off to passengers. The auto city brake works very well indeed with a stereoscopic camera that allows the car to recognise cross traffic hazards, assisting in slamming on the anchors at the first sign of trouble.

The curving rear roofline eats into the back seat headroom, resulting in a layout more suited as a comfortable four seater rather than an out-and-out five seater. Vitally for a business car, the XE also has a decent boot easily swallowing up a couple of golf bags, with room to spare for a briefcase or two.

This car really relishes tight and twisty roads - give it some open bends and it really comes into its own. The steering is very responsive indeed especially when you consider it is actually an electrically powered system.

The base model is the SE and it’s priced from £26,990 and the range-topping car coming in at £45,000. The SE comes with a decent amount of spec, Sat-Nav, DAB radio, climate control, emergency braking, lane departure warning and finally 17” alloy wheels all as standard. The Prestige is next followed by the Portfolio and the R Sport is the range topper.

I really enjoyed driving the XE and I am so happy to say it’s a genuine 3-series competitor. This car will be very popular and it’s going to be real Beemer beater. There is an extensive waiting list just to drive this car!

Car supplied by Stratstone Jaguar Newcastle

JUL/AUG15

ACTIVE RIDE

A perky playmate One made for fun on the run, the BMW Active 2 is a Mini that’s been stretched to BMW status with bags of personality and driving pleasure

As most people are aware, BMW have always been marketed as being the ultimate driving machine. I would agree with this, having owned quite nearly every car in the range. From the 1 series to the 7 series they are all rear wheel drive which makes for a great driver’s car. In a nutshell, the front wheels are allowed to steer while all the power goes to the rear wheels. In California or Dubai where the weather is usually amazing all year round the rear wheel drive works a treat. Now imagine the scenario; we have a freak showering of snow, you get ready for work and you get in your lovely BMW. It’s at this time of the year when normally smug and happy BMW drivers face their worst nightmare, getting stuck in the snow at the side of the road.

Unless you have winter tyres fitted you’re going to see every smug Audi driver flying past you. Thankfully, BMWs are now available with 4 wheel drive technology.

This brings me onto a new market being targeted by BMW; despite joining the MPV party very late indeed they have launched the Active 2 Tourer. Despite coming in to the market which has been decreasing in sales as customers prefer to buy chunky crossovers instead like the Nissan Qashqai or the Peugeot 2008, the BMW is facing even more competition from the VW Golf SV, Mercedes B Class and the Ford C Max. Most MPVs tend to be very boxy and highsided, making them visually not as cool looking as the new breed of crossovers.

BMW have done a great job with the Active 2 as it is very dynamic looking indeed. They have styling cues from both the coupe 4 series and the 6 series. The car’s trademark kidney grilles are imposing and sit between the headlights.

The designers have worked hard to give the car subtle creases and break up the lines of the bodywork. The car’s interior is very lavish indeed with aluminium and lashings of leather all over. The sporty red stitching helps give the car a real premium feel, too. They have ditched rear wheel drive and given this car front wheel drive technology; they have

JUL/AUG15

gained invaluable experience thanks to the Mini.

Anyone who has driven the new Mini will know just how fun and great they are to drive. The Active Tourer uses the same platform as the Mini but it has been stretched to increase passenger space. The other connection with the Mini is the two engines; the petrol engine is the 1.5lt Turbo and the diesel engine is a 2.0lt Turbo. Strangely, they are badged 218i or 218d. The petrol engine produces 138bhp and the diesel engine produces 148bhp. The diesel engine returns 68mpg and the petrol returns 58mpg, another benefit for the petrol is it’s £2,000 cheaper to buy than the diesel.

The range is priced from £22,500 - £32,350 for the rangetopping M Sport model. The car’s driving dynamics are somewhat limited due to the car’s shape and size, the car’s steering is well weighted and very accurate indeed. Press the sport button and the steering firms up and feels artificially heavy. Turn into a bend and you will notice some movement in the body but even quick changes in direction never unsettle the car. I am sure the car will receive a 5 star Euro Ncap rating partly thanks to the pedestrian warning and the city brake function. Pedestrian safety is increased as the city brake is automatically applied if the driver fails to respond to an obstacle in front of the car.

At higher speeds the wind noise is eradicated by high A pillars, wing mirrors. The ride quality is very smooth despite riding on 18” alloys. Another great feature were the electrically folding rear seats; once folded, there is 1510 litres of boot space and with the seats up there is still a very useable 468 litres of space. Both the Golf SV and Mercedes B Class are slightly larger than the Active 2 which

suffers with slightly less legroom. The BMW trumps it competitors with its excellent build quality and stunning interior. There are plenty of storage bins and the arm rest doubles up as another storage box. There is ample room for three adults in the rear; the high roofline allows plenty of headroom for passengers. After spending a few days in this car I really realised just how nice it was to drive, anyone looking to buy a MPV with a bit of style and great driveability need look no further, as this car really does tick all the boxes.

Car supplied by Cooper BMW Boldon

The car’s interior is very lavish indeed with aluminium and lashings of leather all over. The sporty red stitching helps give the car a real premium feel 89

IN THE ZONE

LUXE LOVES A world view For when you need to be in two places at once. This iconic watch is a tribute to watchmaking tradition with a unique dial showing the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time zones. All the dial displays - power reserve, date, 2nd time zone are arranged to be read at a glance.

Master Geographic ÂŁ8,350 www.jaeger-lecoultre.com

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BMW

Lloyd Newcastle

LLOYD NEWCASTLE. YOUR LOCAL BMW CENTRE. Lloyd Newcastle is a family-owned business with a proud history within Newcastle.

We strive to exceed expectations at every opportunity, offering first class service.

We hold a wealth of extensive knowledge and experience of the BMW brand, sure to guide you into making the right decision.

For information on our BMW Centre and the services we offer, or to explore the BMW range, please call 0191 261 7366 or visit www.lloydnewcastlebmw.co.uk.

Lloyd Newcastle

Fenham Barracks, Newcastle Upon Tyne Tyne & Wear NE2 4LE Official fuel economy figures for the BMW X6 range: Urban 21.6 – 42.2mpg (13.1-6.7l/100km).

Extra Urban 36.2–51.4mpg (7.8 –5.5l/100km). Combined 29.1– 47.1mpg (9.7– 6.0l/100km). CO2 Emissions 227-157g/km.

Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions.

The Ultimate Driving Machine

In association with:

luxe:looks Rockliffe Hall Ascot Race Day Below > Laura Jude, Liz Gilmore

Break out the fizz. Time to get down to some people-spotting as we bring you our social snapshot of happenings across the North East. Eyes and teeth time!

An Evening with Hooker&Young, Coach House, Middleton Lodge Below > Vanessa Price, Jane Thompson Smith, Sue Allison

Above > Julie Brookes, Mandy Roper, Isobel Potts

Above > Bev Parker, Alison Latimer, Lyn Rose, Danielle Reale, Cheryl Bosi

Below > Laura Claughan, Rebecca Everson

Below > Victoria Reeve, Rickie Labonte

Above > Helen Baxter, Laura Ridley, Linda Ridley

Above > Ashley Dale, Suzanne McKie, Simon Roberts

Below > Lorraine Maudline, Sue Allison, Jess Alison-Hughes

Below > Barbara Mills, Linda Boyes, Chris Riley, Tracey Crooks, Julie Wright

Above > Jane Miller, Sandra Dye

Above > Claire Rogers, Susan Gubbins

Above > Karen Mewse, Lisa Currie-Hall

Leaversâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Ball, Teesside High School, Eaglescliffe Below > Year 13 Students

Below > Abbie Wilson, Andrew Wilson

Above > Ed Stevens, Jennifer Carribine, Lucia Holdhusen

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Above > Kathryn Rose, Kirsty Mackenzie, Rebecca Kirk, Helen Davison, Gloria Wilson, Jane Huish, Helen Walton, Victoria Terry

Above > Millie Allen, Kate Brownlees, Grace Leonard, Hannah McGloin, Isabel Matthews

JUL/AUG15

SOCIAL LIFE

Charity Ladiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Day, Psyche, Middlesbrough Below > Annie Crossman, Lisa Crossman

Below > Lisa Attawi, Frankie Brack

Above > Nikki Jane, Faye Doyle, Helen Oliver, Laura Forbes, Fressie Lopez

Above > Amie Devine, Becky Hutton

Above > Kevin Antwhistle, Melissa Lucas

Slaley Hall Bubble Foundation Charity Golf Day

Below > Richard Wood, Kevin Peel, Dave Fletcher, Steve Kendall

Benfield VW Dealership launch, Silverlink, North Tyneside Below > Suzie Kennedy, Jonathan Edwards, Kenny Atkinson

Above > Graham Anderson, Norman Lejuene, Lynne Lejuene, Marion Statham

Above > Glyn Jenkins, Ian Walker, Darren Laybourn, David Hornsey Below > Steve Morrison, Paul Wrangham

Above > Alex Smith, Simon Milne, Mark Squires

Above > Marilyn Ashby, June Duffy, Claire Gray, Nichola Carr Below > Ray McGhee, Frances McGhee, Cecilia Bridges, Richard Bridges

Above > Martin Buchanan, John Neill

Above > Francesca Mazzeo, Caroline Moore, Toby Scott

Below > Joshua Jennings, Debra Jennings, Peter Jennings, Amy Faulkner, John Cuthbertson

Above > Mark King, Joanne Grungo

Summer Preview, Biscuit Factory, Newcastle Below > Chris Holland, Alyson Holland

Below > Stephen Doherty, Jayne Doherty, Alex Thirlaway

Above > Susan Douglas, Kate Bridger

Above > Sue Howen, Emily Cogan, Pauline Cogan

Above > Iva Maria, Ewan McChlery

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SOCIAL LIFE

Butterwick Hospice Corporate Dinner, Rudby Hall, North Yorkshire Below > Tony Devereux, Christine Devereux

Below > Jo Frost, Paul Frost, Laura Douthwaite

Below > Patricia Boynton, Laura Douthwaite

Above > Jo Lowes, Natalie Gibson, Jeremy Lowes, Sam Raby Above > Andy Gray, Patricia Boynton

Above > Martin Griffith, Amanda Scio

Newcastle High School for Girls Networking Evening

Berryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Golf Day, Ramside Hall Hotel, Durham

Below > Abby Reade, Nick Swales, Helen Brown

Above > Greg Hall, Gordon Dance, Kevin Maddison, Ollie Morgan

Above > Derrick Colin, John Wallace, Kristian Colin, Craig Hopwood Below > Alan Lowrey, Rob Smith

Below > Peter Kilgour, Andrew Keenan

Above > Jessica Carnick, Isabel Braningham, Jill Owens Below > Lucy McGregor, Laura Hibberd

Above > Michael Ganley, Chris March, Bob Quinn, George Cheung Above > Melissa Duncan, Charlotte Thompson

Above > Cath Jenkins, Andrea Thompson, Marion Lowdon, Margaret Mills

Above > Bonita Tauk, Fatima Salaudeen

Durham Regatta VIP Reception, Durham Below > Councillor Jan Blakey, Alan Blakey

Below > David Cook, Marion Cook

Above > Stella Van Zwanenberg, Nigel Van Zwanenberg, Deborah Van Zwanenberg Above > Flo Guss, Stephen Guss

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Above > Alan Bell, Liz Bell

Above > Penny Shepard, Ian Shepard

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Luxe Supper Club, Hilton Hotel, Gateshead

Above > Martin Robinson, Craig Iley

Above > Lynne Waterman, Hannah Gray, Allison Harrison

Above > Alok Loomba, Pat Dellow

Above> Chris March, Geoff Hodgson, Scott Stevenson, Martin Robinson Above> Alan Suggett, Jane Suggett

Above > Scott Stevenson

Tees Valley Community Foundation Dinner, Wynyard Hall Below > Heather O’Driscoll, Steve Grant, Keith Smith, David Kirkby

Above > Helen Williams, Jonelle Bain, Peter Rowley, Nigel Williams

Above > Sir Ron Norman, Elaine Bell, Les Bell, Colin Fyfe

Below > Yvonne Horseman, Chris Hope

Below > Doug Nicholson, Jeff Taylor

Above > Neil Kenley, Terry Owens

Bond Dickinson LLP Prince’s Trust Charity Clay Shoot, Lambton Estate Below > Chris Thompson

Above > Group shot

Above > Prince’s Trust Young Ambassador Shaun with John Marshall and John Holland

Below > Omid Djalili

Below > Mick Thompson

Above > First place winners W.A.C.S, team captain Stuart Maughan Let’s see you! If you would like your event featured on our Luxe:Looks pages please supply images with full captions (We Transfer or Dropbox is best) to: kathryn@remembermedia.co.uk

JUL/AUG15

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GOOD STUFF

Sweet charity Charity goings-on, fund-raising fun and food for thought...

AIM HIGH >>

HEROES ALL >> Superheroes from across the region welcomed Ant and Dec back to the North East to raise thousands of pounds for local children. The Geordies joined forces with Cash for Kids Superhero Day in aid of two local charities: Cash for Kids and The Sunshine Fund and helped raise £28,848.

The pair started early, taking over Metro Radio’s and TFM’s Breakfast Show, joining in with on-air games and setting a fundraising challenge for regular breakfast host Steve Furnell.

At the Vermont Hotel they met some of the families and children who have benefited from the charities’ support, thanking key corporate supporters including sponsors Blue Line Taxis and Scoot.

The annual Bond Dickinson clay shoot in aid of the Prince’s Trust has raised over £45,000 for the youth charity, a new record for this event. The shoot took place at the historic Lambton Estate in County Durham and featured guest speaker, the comedian and Prince’s Trust ambassador, Omid Djalili.

Jointly hosted by Bond Dickinson with John Holland of J R Holland Food Services, the annual event saw 25 teams compete head to head for the coveted shooting prizes. The teams then enjoyed a 3-course lunch before Sean Pearson, a Prince’s Trust Job Ambassador, spoke of how the Prince’s Trust has helped him. Omid Djalili then entertained the guests and spoke about his enthusiasm for the work of the Trust. Silent and live auctions also took place with lots ranging from signed rugby shirts to helicopter rides and opportunities to drive a tank, all helping to raise the record amount.

This means the event has raised in excess of £150,000 over the four years it has been held.

JACK’S PARTY >> A big birthday was a big deal for football legend Jack Charlton, a big supporter of the Bobby Robson Foundation.

Jack Charlton celebrated with wife Pat, Lady Elsie Robson and the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation fundraisers. Jack is an ambassador for Northumberland Tea which donates money to the Foundation from every box of tea sold.

“It was a lovely surprise to get a cake and to see Lady Elsie again. Bob was a great lad and a very good friend and it gives me a lot of pleasure to support the work of the Foundation whenever I can,” said Jack.

SWEET THINGS >> Finger-licking fabulousness gave Mrs Berry and co a run for their money when Teesside’s Butterwick Hospice hosted its very own Bake-off Challenge with local businesses.

Held at Wynyard Hall, the event saw Pam Royle, Eugene McCoy and Duncan Bannatyne show their sweetest side as they munched their way through tasty treats to decide the winning bakers who had created some stunning themed cakes.

Jacksons Law Firm, a corporate partner of the hospice, organised the Butterwick Bake Off. More than 20 local businesses took up the challenge with overall winner Yorkshire Bank’s Tour de Yorkshire cake.

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DIARY DATES >> Join a Ladies’ Day gathering in aid of St Cuthbert’s Hospice, Durham on 9 August. In place of the annual Ladies Lunch, Ladies Day is an opportunity to sit back, relax and be pampered in the name of an important local charity. Details on 0191 386 1170 ext. 5

If you’re reading these pages chances are you will have heard one Mr Jason Isaacs perform his ratpack-style jazz at a snazzy event somewhere in the North East.

His wife Sharon is organising a Red Shoe Fundraiser in aid of Breast Cancer Care and Maggie’s Centre, Newcastle on 5 August at the lovely Newton Hall in Northumberland.

Tenniswoodstock (that’s the couple’s surname) will be the first official fundraiser organised by their new Red Shoe Events company.

Sharon is a two-time breast cancer survivor and her business partner Alex lost her father to cancer, so the charities are very close to their hearts.

It’s a mini festival with a cause, a celebration of music, a fun day out, sunshine and some well-known guests including Martin Stephenson - and of course Jason at the mic. Details on www. redshoeevents.co.uk/events/tenniswoodstock You’ll still have some summer tan left for Josie’s Dragonfly Ball on September 19 at Matfen Hall. Tickets and details www. josiesdragonfly.org TOMA Fund’s fourth Tiaras&Tuxedos Ball happens on Saturday 14 November at Newcastle Marriott Hotel, Gosforth Park.

It’s the children’s cancer charity’s most prestigious fundraising event with funds going directly to support children, young people and their families in the North East & Cumbria who are fighting a battle against childhood cancers. £50 per ticket; table of 10, £470. Details on 0191 495 6186 or email andreaatkinson@tomafund.org

TEE OFF >>

on July 31. r of Sunderland’s Charity Golf Day Book in for Konect Events annual Mayo an 18-hole in part take four of s team see The event at Wearside Golf Club, will chosen Mayoral Sunderland, Councillor Barry Curran’s, competition in aid of the Mayor of ork and NDRC Netw s Force d Arme d erlan Sund , charities which are: Sunderland MIND e).

(North East Disabilities Resource Centr ll take away a hole in one on the first hole they’ And if anyone is lucky enough to score Ford. eld Benfi sors, donated by spon an added prize – a Ford Fiesta Zetec ts are priced y event, will tee off at 9.30am. Ticke The competition, which is an all-da from able avail of four and are at £48 per person or £192 per team www.getkonect.com/events.

JUL/AUG15

Join us at the beach this summer holidays mean beach-combing, wave-jumping or just a bit of shut-eye in the sunshine, be sure to keep Luxe by your side.

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Shell-like>> Hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a creative pastime for when you get bored with your sunbed blockbuster on the beach. Photography by Kev Gibson www.kgphotography.co.uk

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Monument

movies st July-30th AUGUST

ADMIT ALL Get that alive after five feeling throughout the day with free outdoor movies in the middle of town at Grey’s Monument.

Screening Tuesdays and Thursdays 12pm & 5pm, Sundays 11pm & 3pm.

Delivered by

For film listings and more info, visit: getintonewcastle.co.uk

#NE1MonumentMovies