The Cheshire Magazine August 14

A U G U S T 2 0 1 4 s i ssu e 0 0 8

The great

outdoors Figure of fun Heidi Klein’s guide to swimwear

£4.00

Fresh air and wide open spaces

Here’s to your next adventure.

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Regulars | The cheshire Magazine

From the

Editor

EDITOR’S PICKs

1

#1 Radiance Perfected Tinted Moisturiser, £48, Eve Lom (evelom.com)

#2 Pershing Confederacao Brasileira de Futbol, £POA, Parmigiani Fleurier (parmigiani.ch)

2 3

#3 Cuba Mocha Oval Table, £1,495, Indian Ocean (indian-ocean.co.uk)

‘Live in the sunshine, swim the sea, drink the wild air’ – Ralph Waldo Emerson (1803-1882)

A

nd that is what we are celebrating in our summer issue; enjoying the great outdoors, especially with so many fantastic options on our very doorstep.

The experts share their favourite summertime tipples with us (p. 36), we have Chef Guy Day’s help to put together the perfect picnic (p. 38) and some getaway destinations that have a definite outdoor feel about them (p. 25).

Furthermore, Felix Baumgartner, the man who amazingly jumped from space (p. 98), talks about his next challenges.

And it doesn’t get more outdoors-y than space, does it?

Ian Poulter shares his thoughts on The Open as it comes to the Royal Liverpool (p. 88), and we have an inspirational feature on the newest hybrid supercars (p. 94) perfect for petrolheads, adventurers and eco-warriors.

Remaining on the sporting theme, Alex Harrison looks back through the tumultuous history of the Commonwealth Games as the fastest man on earth, Usain Bolt, confirms his place for Team Jamaica (p. 30).

All that, plus our beautiful fashion shoot which definitely makes a splash! So dive (sorry couldn’t resist) into our August issue and enjoy.

Louisa Louisa Castle Editor Follow us on Twitter @TheCheshireMag

Proud to support Variety – The Children’s Charity 8

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The mayfair Magazine | Regulars

066

064

016

Contents

August 2014

052 072

044

Features

art

travel

025 | Room to breathe

The ultimate round-up of worldwide destinations for lovers of the great outdoors 030 | Triumph and tragedy

The ups and downs of the Commonwealth Games throughout its long history 034 | The bold sommelier

The story of George Bergier 036 | Perfect summer tipples

From sangria to cuvée, our experts’ pick of ideal drinks 038 | The perfect picnic

Guy Day gives us some rather innovative hamper solutions 041 | Q&A with...

Executive Chef Stuart Duff talks British food and family 080 | Swimwear style

The two clever ladies behind Heidi Klein pick out the ideal pieces to flatter your shape 084 | Back to basics

We talk to Amandine Isnard of skincare brand Eve Lom 088 | The charming golfer

Sports legend Ian Poulter on technique and tournaments

042 | Art news 044 | Photographer of style

A look at the revolutionary works of world-renowned photographer Horst 046 | Summer exhibition

The Royal Academicians at our Atelier Rose & Gray 049 | Prize lots

104 | Travel news 106 | Anything you Cannes do

With glamour, history and gourmet, what’s not to like?

110 | Explore Thailand

From bustling cities to picture-perfect sandy beaches, discover this Far Eastern gem 112 | Weekend away

This Costwolds haven truly feels a thousand miles away

collection 052 | Watch news 054 | Extra time

The big watch brands are picking their sides 060 | Jewellery news

fashion & beauty 064 | Fashion news

From essential accessories to new trends, it’s all here 066 | Weaving a tale

A rare look inside the Lyon silk factory where Hermès scarves are born 072 | Make a splash

Let your swimwear hold its own in the style stakes 082 | Beauty news

regulars

motoring

008 | Editor’s letter 012 | Contributors 015 | My life in Cheshire

Max Henderson on creating beautiful homes in Cheshire 016 | Couture culture

Our favourite things to buy, see, eat or explore this month 020 | Local scene

Who attended what, all the glamour and the gossip

092 | Motoring news

Truly a car-lover’s dream 094 | Green zone

Discover the exciting new breed of hybrid supercars 098 | Space racer

Can Felix Baumgartner ever top his space jump?

102 | Technology central

Love the latest gadgets? We bring you our top picks

family 114 | Kids’ news 119 | Family days out

All the inspiration you need for fun-filled summer holidays 121 | The classroom

Forest Schools, fundraising and a bit of horsing around

homes & interiors 124 | Interiors news 126 | Inside and out

Discover Katharine Hepburn’s former Connecticut estate 130 | Recreate the look

Capturing New England chic 142 | Let there be light

Eva Menz takes bespoke lighting to new heights 154 | Avant-gardening

Finalists of the 2014 Young Designer of the Year award 160 | Local property

Some of the finest properties to be found on the local scene 162 | Cherub House

Andy Cole’s Barbados home 164 | Overseas property

These stunning properties will have you yearning to emigrate

11

Regulars | The CHESHIRE Magazine

AUGUST 2014 s issue 0 0 8 s

Editor Louisa Castle

The

contributors

Editorial Director Kate Harrison Art Editor Carol Cordrey Collection Editor Annabel Harrison Assistant Editor Gemma Knight Senior Designer Lisa Wade Brand Consistency Laddawan Juhong Production Hugo Wheatley Alex Powell Oscar Viney Amy Roberts Advertising Manager Kayleigh Penswick General Manager Fiona Fenwick Head of Finance Elton Hopkins Publisher Giles Ellwood

GEMMA KNIGHT Gemma has a background in luxury freelance journalism and comes to Runwild following a stint working and living in China. She has an endless thirst for new places and specialises in lifestyle, culture and travel writing.

RICHARD BROWN Richard is deputy editor of Collection, our dedicated watch and fine jewellery section. He specialises in men’s style, culture and finance. This month he introduces us to the new Dior VIII Montaigne timepiece collection.

matthew carter Matthew Carter is a noted freelance journalist who’s been writing about cars for most of his working life. A former editor of Autocar magazine, he is a serial car owner and, this month, talks about the new breed of supercar hybrids.

carol cordrey Carol is an art critic and editor. She organises the annual London Ice Sculpting Festival and is permanently on the art scene, bringing us her take on the latest happenings from the constantly evolving world of art.

Iain Warde Iain is self a confessed geek, having worked in computer gaming and tech magazines since the creation of Pac-Man. He is also a huge petrolhead who spends his spare time marshalling at Oulton Park and around the UK.

ELLE BLAKEMAN Elle is a journalist and editor based in London.

She has previously worked at Harper’s Bazaar, Marie Claire and InStyle and specialises in luxury travel and fashion writing. She has a weakness for brownies and red lipstick.

Executive Director Sophie Roberts Managing Director Eren Ellwood

Proudly published by

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

www.rwmg.co.uk Runwild Media Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Runwild Media Ltd. takes no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

DISTRIBUTION: The Cheshire Magazine is the largest circulated luxury publication in Cheshire, delivered to selected homes in over 20 postcodes, over 300 businesses, as well as newsagents and retail outlets.

cover Image courtesy of Calleija -- See Page 60

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: Please contact Kayleigh Penswick +44 (0)1502 380434; +44 (0)7841 199699 k.penswick@runwildgroup.co.uk

Also published by Members of the Professional Publishers Association

12

extra Time

On the

Luxury watch brands join the worLd’s most mass-marketed sport

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Regulars

My life in CHESHIRE MAX HENDERSON MD HENDERSON HOMES

M

ax has been the Managing Director of his family business for over ten years, steering it through the ups and downs of the economy and coming out the other side unscathed. It wasn’t always his chosen career path though.

‘My granddad would take me to sites from when I was eight years old so really it is in the blood. But after university I went through a bit of a rebellion and went into recruitment. I love talking to people and being on the phone.’ This I can appreciate as, at some points during the interview I feel like Max is asking more questions than me!

It was soon apparent though that his true calling was in building homes, via a stint in motor racing: he loves ‘anything with an engine in it’. But his passion for building is clear as he continues; ‘I’m not interested in churning out hundreds and

I’m not interested in churning out hundreds and hundreds of homes’ – Max Henderson

from top: max henderson; coffee and a croissant; artisan market; wilmslow; the wizard pub; construction work; petit delice, wilmslow; golfing

hundreds of homes. We’re all about delivering a fab product so we’re currently delivering 10 to 20 properties a year.

‘In the future I’d like to increase that to 20 to 40 a year but we have to maintain the quality.’ Max is a self-confessed obsessive over the details. He describes it as a ‘little OCD’, his PR lady Jackie describes it as ‘uncompromising attention for detail’. ‘The things that have irritated me through the years when I’ve bought houses surely would irritate other people, that’s all I mean.’ And it seems to be working for him as he’s never not sold a property before it is finished. Plus, he still has a site foreman working for him who worked for his grandfather.

Born and brought up in the North West, Max fell in love with Wilmslow after driving through it going to and from university.

He now lives here with his wife, baby daughter Phoebe and dog.

‘When I first moved here, my friends would come to visit and they loved it too. It’s a fab place to live; the airport is on the doorstep as well as the motorway and train to London; and Manchester’s only 20 minutes away.’

‘I’m not a city person and living here I get the best of all worlds.

I love being able to pop to the shops or the Artisan Market – I’m a complete foodie. There’s nothing better than taking Archie (his beloved Lhasa Apso) for a walk on Sundays and ending up at Petit Delice for coffee and a croissant. Or going for a walk on The Edge and heading for lunch at The Wizard. Or a round of golf at Wilmslow Golf Club. There’s quite a lot of choice really.’ (hendersonhomes.co.uk) 15

Hooked on music

am and Dr Marieke DJ/Journalist Dave Hasl chester Science Navin, Director of Man ote the game Festival at MOSI prom photography (photo: © jason lock

The Museum of Science & Industry has launched a new online game, #HookedOnMusic, developed to explore the science behind what makes a musical hook. Created by computational musicologist Dr John Ashley Burgoyne and his team (with the support of citizen science expert and Wellcome Trust Engagement Fellow, Erinma Ochu), it’s hoped that the results from #HookedOnMusic will aid future research into Alzheimer’s disease and help scientists devise ways to trigger memories and provide therapeutic benefits. Launched at last year’s Manchester Science Festival the 2013 citizen science programme got the world talking music. Celebrities and the general public alike nominated their pick for catchiest tunes, all of which are now part of the unique #HookedOnMusic live online game. (hookedonmusic.org.uk, @McrScifest /@voiceofmosi, #HookedOnMusic)

Couture culture Our monthly round up of what we love most right now

event: 18-20 JUly

T

16

THE Beach read Indiscretion by Charles Dubow £7.99, Blue Door Dubow’s indulgent, Gatsbyesque debut explores desire and betrayal amidst the heat of an East Hampton’s summer.

THE debut book In the Light of What We Know by Zia Haider Rahman £16.99, Picador In this tome, two men unravel a complex friendship and face issues of class, culture and faith.

THE food read The Bloomsbury Cookbook: Recipes for Life, Love and Art by Jans Ondaatje Rolls £24.95, Thames & Hudson This book chronicles the Bloomsbury Group through a series of recipes with links to some of the literary greats.

Foodies Festival

he Foodies Festival returns to Tatton Park this month for its fourth consecutive year. This year, however, the MasterChef Street Food Bus is also in tow where MasterChef maestros will be cooking up a storm of street food for visitors – the Singapore Softie gets our vote!

This year also welcomes an extensive array of top chefs; including Glynn Purnell, judge of BBC’s Great British Menu, MasterChef winner Mat Follas, former Coronation Street star and cheese maker Sean Wilson, David Mooney of Knutsford’s Old Sessions House and returning to ‘The Street’ actor Charlie Lawson of Prestbury Farm Shop.

New for this year are the Chocolate, Bake and Preserves Theatre; a Chocolate, Baking and Preserves Village; Vintage Tea Tent; an outdoor BBQ Arena; a Chilli Food Market; a Real Ale

books

‘MasterChef maestros will be cooking up a storm of street food for visitors’ and Cider Farm and a new Feasting Tent, where visitors will enjoy eating with chefs, friends and family at long banqueting tables.

Tickets start from £10 and VIP tickets (including sparkling wine on arrival, VIP tent access, goody bag, priority entry to theatre/masterclass sessions and private bar) are £38. This year’s Foodies Festival will also be operating a free shuttle bus from Knutsford Train Station. (foodiesfestival.com; 0844 995 1111)

THE critics’ choice Boyhood Island by Karl Ove Knausgaard £17.99 Harvill Secker The acclaimed author brings us his third volume in which he tackles childhood, family and memory. the photography read Dennis Hopper: The Lost Album by Petra Giloy-Hirtz £35, Prestel This collection of prints shows the actor and filmmaker’s talent for capturing American culture.

The cheshire Magazine | Regulars

5 top picks

Picnic party Picnics are an essential summer experience whatever the weather. Here are some stylish solutions for some perfect outdoor dining

#1 Jolly chevron pure wool blankets, £70 each (berryred.co.uk)

film

Begin Again

‘C

an a song save your life?’ asks director John Carney (Once) in his new film, Begin Again, an unconventional look at the music industry and the challenges of life in the Big Apple.

Begin Again follows the unlikely friendship that develops between Gretta (Keira Knightley) and Dan (Mark Ruffalo) who are both struggling under the weight of New York City at two conflicting points in their lives. Knightley plays the role of a lonely singer-songwriter with her typical tomboy charm, while Ruffalo portrays a bitter record-label executive in the thick of a mid-life crisis. Their united passion to create authentic, quality music in a factory pop generation creates a complex bond, which is gently yet powerfully depicted.

Carney, whose credentials for Once include an Academy Award and a smash-hit stage show, manages to weave an original soundtrack seamlessly into

the plot with a selection of delicate pop songs à la Burt Bacharach. The off-thecuff humour of producer Judd Apatow (This is 40) can especially be felt in scenes with James Corden (The History Boys) who plays Gretta’s starry-eyed British friend. Jarring poignant moments with awkward humour, this creates an important balance which doesn’t allow the film to feel overly profound.

An understated must-see for all musiclovers, Begin Again is hopeful without feeling contrived. Although there is an element of ‘will they or won’t they?’ throughout, ultimately Gretta and Dan’s relationship is a realistic look at how people can guide each other through times of shared emotional turmoil. Using music as a catalyst, Carney also comments on the current industry without pretending it can be revolutionised.

Begin Again is released on 11 July

‘Updating cushions, throws, rugs and candles is a quick and inexpensive way of refreshing your scheme’

Prices start at £26.99 (enashawhome.co.uk)

#2 Traditional Egg and Spoon Race, £14 (ellieellie.co.uk)

#3 Gorgeous greaseproof sandwich paper, £4.25 (oakroomshop.co.uk)

#4 Kissing Robbins wicker hamper for four, £94.95, (annabeljames.co.uk)

#5 Rustic citronella candles, from £4.95 (gomodern.co.uk) 17

HIDDEN GEM…

let the sun shine

Hawkstone Follies

This summer the trend is to go yellow, so why not give the sun a helping hand?

R

anking high on the ‘to do’ list of any true outdoors enthusiast is Shropshire’s historic Hawkstone Park, a Grade I listed landscape promising action-packed adventure and blissful tranquility in equal measure.

Four different routes guide you around the parkland, which vary in length from one to three hours. Along the way you’ll discover Hawkstone’s follies; a series of fanciful buildings, which include the Monument, the

‘Four different routes guide you around the parkland’

Hermitage, Gothic Arch, Indian Rock, Fox’s Knob and Gingerbread Hall. This is a walk for the adventurous spirited that takes you through mythical caves and reaches its peak with the dramatic views from Swiss Bridge.

Built over 200 years ago, the parkland was conceived as an outdoor pleasure ground by one of Shropshire’s foremost families. Its significance is such that it is a Grade I listed landscape, which in total stretches across 100 acres, giving miles of woodland to explore.

While the Follies offers dramatic terrain and breathtaking views, the park also boasts one of the Midlands’s best championship golf courses for those who fancy a gentler outdoors. (hawkstoneparkfollies.co.uk)

PURCHASE OF THE MONTH

Eames style Lucio chair Originally conceived by American designers, Charles and Ray Eames it was one of the very first plastic chairs. This modern classic reproduction is perfect for the contemporary home or garden. £155 (outthereinteriors.com)

Cherry Blossom Hand Cream Perfectly sized for your handbag, desk or travelling we love this Cherry Blossom hand cream. It has a non-greasy concentrated formula which is easily absorbed, for smooth, softer hands, nails and cuticles. £6.50 (pierrotetcoco.com)

The Gulliver garden parasol We fell in love with this wonderfully witty supersized old fashioned ‘brolly’ from Sywawa Belgium, with an integrated base so you don’t need to buy any separates (having said that you can buy a Blah Blah table to sit at any height on the pole if you wish). The waterproof fabric means that the Gulliver parasol can be used on both sunny and rainy days making it perfect for the British weather (ideal for smokers to hide under) and at 295cm across (almost 3 metres) it will provide plenty of shelter. The base, ribs and pole of the Gulliver garden umbrella are available in either white or black, whilst the shade and handle are available in a number of different colours, including red, orange, yellow, green and blue, as well as black & white. £1,050 (gomodern.co.uk)

‘The waterproof fabric means that the Gulliver parasol can be used on both sunny and rainy days’

18

KitchenAid Artisan Mixer These retro good looks are guaranteed to bring a ray of sunshine into any kitchen.

Perfect for budding bakers and interior stylistas. £415 (cotswoldtrading.com)

The cheshire Magazine | Regulars

Chocolate competition In celebration of The Chester Grosvenor’s 150 years anniversary celebrations, the world famous hotel has teamed up with Rococo Chocolates to launch an exclusive Chester Grosvenor chocolate bar with a competition that will make your artwork immortal. The Chester Grosvenor is inviting anyone of any age to send an original piece of art that represents The Chester Grosvenor. Entries are open to all ages and can be created in any way you like although you should bear in mind the image will be transferred on to a flat chocolate bar box.

The competition prize, which will be judged by managing director of The Chester Grosvenor, Jonathan Slater, owner of Rococo Chocolates, Chantal Coady and designer, Nick Munro, will include lunch for six at La Brasserie and a blindfolded Rococo chocolate tasting. Runners up prizes of Rococo chocolates will be given to highly commended entries. Submit entries to The Chester Grosvenor, Eastgate, Chester CH1 1LT or by e-mail to marketing@chestergrosvenor.com preferably in a high-res jpeg format. Closing date is 15 August, 2014. Each applicant can make up to three separate entries. The dimensions of the chocolate bar are 8cm x 17cm and usually displayed portrait style. (chestergrosvenor.com)

‘“I don’t know why, but the meals we have on picnics always taste so much nicer than the ones we have indoors,” said George.’

– Enid Blyton, Five Go Off in a Caravan

SPOTLIGHT ON… Tea42

W

e already love Tea42’s fabulous afternoon teas, however there’s now an evening a la carte menu to add to the mix. It’s even gluten free and has a great selection for vegetarians. Homemade bread presented in mini plant pots welcomes you to this new dining experience. We then chose the celeriac ‘riceless risotto’ (mainly out of curiosity) and Thai spiced squid. Both were delightful but it’s the risotto I’m going to rave about – painstakingly chopped celeriac to look like rice and a decadently indulgent taste accented with black truffle and Parmesan.

After our palate cleanser of citrus sorbet, we dined on homemade gnocchi with blue cheese (my husband labelled this the best gnocchi he’s ever had) and the roast lamb loin with lamb hotpot ravioli, perfect with a glass of Merlot. As if our stomachs hadn’t been delighted enough we indulged in the cheese selection and, I might add, served at absolutely the right temperature (a huge plus in my book) which included Mrs Kirkham’s tasty Lancashire, of course. Tea42 may be in Manchester but it is definitely worth the visit, although rumour has it the owners are planning to come to Cheshire with their concept very soon.

58 High Street, Manchester M4 1EF (0800 043 42 42)

19

Local scene This month Cheshire has been inspired by the sunshine and we have a definite sporting theme to our pages; from handballs to chukkas and sticky wickets galore

Football’s Greatest Stories Harvey Nichols, Manchester In partnership with the National Football Museum, Harvey Nichols celebrated the launch of Football’s Greatest Stories as the menswear department played host to some amazing footballing memorabilia.

Classic football footage from the National Football Museum archives was shown on the night and will continue to be screened throughout the FIFA World Cup. There’s also a range of signed shirts on sale, whether you’re a fan of Messi or Maradona. (harveynichols.com)

DON’T MISS IT! Football’s Greatest Stories pop-up runs to Sunday 13 July, 2014

‘The menswear department played host to some amazing footballing memorabilia’ 20

The cheshire Magazine | Regulars

‘The great and the good of Cheshire and Manchester showed support for the polo teams (some of whom had been flown in especially from Argentina for the match)’

Chukkas and champagne Newhall Farm Polo Club, Knutsford The Bentley Manchester Ladies’ day at Newhall Polo, organised by Gin and Jag, returned for its second year this month raising money for Destination Florida. The great and the good of Cheshire and Manchester showed support for the polo teams (some of whom had been flown in especially from Argentina for the match), whilst basking in the sun, drinking glasses of Prosecco Moltovini provided by Robinsons Brewery. Entertainment included an Armand Beasley-hosted fashion show by Wilmslow outfitters, Black White Denim and Rumpus Resort, and vocal performance from David Julien. (@NewHallPolo; destinationflorida.org.uk)

21

Michael and Louise Owen

‘There were 13 nations competing, including major names of the sport’

Calum Best and friends

fashion show

Bolesworth International Bolesworth Castle, Tattenhall The world’s leading riders gathered in the glorious sunshine for the Bolesworth International. Over 30,000 visitors enjoyed the now world-renowned equestrian competition. There were 13 nations competing, including major names of the sport such as British Olympic gold medallist Nick Skelton, former World Champion Dermot Lennon, and nine members of the famous showjumping family, The Whitakers. The opening ceremony included a performance from Britain’s Got Talent finalists MD Dance troupe and culminated in footballer Michael Owen cutting the ribbon to open the show with his wife Louise, a keen horsewoman. Friday also saw Blue perform to a packed ground. Bolesworth International supported two children’s charities during the event, Caudwell Children and Claire House, and raised over £25,000 over the four days for children with life-limiting conditions. (bolesworthinternational.com) photography by honeybunnphotography.com

22

The cheshire Magazine | Regulars

Former MP Nick Hawkins; Chester Chairman of The Lord’s Taverners; Mark Fearnall; Kim Barnett, ex England and Derbyshire; TV presenter Nick Knowles; Chris Talbot of The lady Taverners; Former Zimbabwe cricketer Gus MacKay; James Gilson

The Lord’s Taverner’s Annual Celebrity Cricket Match

June Foster, ITC Sport; Gary Talbot, Chester FC; Carol Talbot; Carol Edwards and Chester Recorder Judge Elgan Edwards

Si Lees-Jones, Chairman of the Northwest Lord’s Taverners; Elle Willis; PETE WILLIS; Jonathan Fry, great Grandson of the great CB FRY, one of our greatest ever cricketers; Mark Fearnall

Cholmondeley Castle The Lord’s Taverners welcomed 400 guests who gathered in the sunshine at Cholmondeley Castle Cricket Club, for The Lord’s Taverners annual celebrity cricket match, raising over £36,000 for charity. Nick Hancock’s team were the winners with a score of 127-2 off 27 overs.

Man of the Match was BBC’s Flog It auctioneer Adam Partridge, with writer Chris England having a champagne moment, with a brilliant catch at 3rd slip to dismiss Nick Knowles. The Auction included helicopter rides to your favourite pub, and a holiday to the Prix de l’Arc de Triomphe, donated by ITC Sports, among many others. Next year will be the tenth anniversary of the cricket match and plans are already underway for an extra special day. (lordtaverners.org)

‘Man of the Match was BBC’s Flog It auctioneer Adam Partridge, with writer Chris England having a champagne moment’ Charlie Lawson looks pensive at the wicket

Umpire Anthony Pilkington; Nick Knowles, captain of the visitors; umpire John Price (former England and MCC player) and Team Captain Nick Hancock

23

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

Room to

breathe

In honour of our Great Outdoors issue, we round up some of the best places to holiday and make the most of the world’s wide open spaces w o r d s : l o u i s a c a s t l e & g e m m a k n ig h t

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Archipelago della Maddalena, Sardinia If exploring the wide open seas is more your idea of discovering the great outdoors, taking to the ocean blue in your very own luxury charter yacht offers a taste of freedom that’s difficult to beat. Rumoured to be the birthplace of the luxury yacht charter, the Mediterranean is not only an exquisite melting pot of diverse culture, effortless elegance and old world charm, but also boasts a staggering choice of unspoilt enclaves most easily (or, in some cases, only) accessible by water. One of the most stunning examples is the Archipelago della Maddalena, the first national park in Sardinia which sits just off the island’s northern coast (close to Corsica) and boasts 60 islands and islets just begging to be explored. The best of the beaches are Liscia Ruja, with its splendid half-moon shape; Cappriccioli, framed by pink granite rocks; and Romazzino. For golf aficionados, there is Il Pevero, one of Europe’s most spectacular courses, and when you’ve finished discovering there’s the famous Costa Smeralda in the north-east of the island, with a super-luxe port where berthing a 50-metre-plus superyacht will set you back as much as £2,000 a night in high season. Luckily, the port’s myriad of high-end boutiques and designer nightspots more than help to make up for the price tag. (lamaddalenapark.it) 25

Kuro Tarangire, Tanzania Taking the eco-friendly safari-camp concept to new heights, Kuro Tarangire actually moves to a different location at the end of each season, leaving almost no trace that the area was once the site of a luxury holiday hideaway. The camp, which opened its doors in June, aims to help travellers discover the real Northern Tanzania and boasts a truly exceptional location amid a grove of Acacia and Kigelia trees on the Tarangire River, a corridor for wildlife meandering through the park which means you’ve an excellent chance of seeing huge herds of buffalo moving between the hills and the riverbed, or elephants gathering at the nearby Silale Swamp. But the camp’s eco-ethos certainly

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doesn’t mean that its designers were prepared to scrimp on comfort, with six light and airy safari tents providing plush accommodation which includes comfortable beds, stylish décor, en-suite bucket shower and flushing eco-toilets.

Guests gather to share meals and relax under the cool grass thatch of the open-sided lounge and dining area which is furnished with hides and canvas for a truly authentic safari-chic appeal which complements balmy evenings, birdsong and some fairly spectacular views.

From £3,962 per person excluding flights but including all private internal arrangements and a private Nomad-Tanzania guide throughout your trip. (theluxurysafaricompany.com)

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Costa Rica Famous for its incredible turtle nesting spectacles – during which captivated visitors are treated to the sight of these beautiful creatures trundling on mass across the country’s sandy beaches – this Central American wonderland has more than a little to offer fans of nature and the open air.

During the height of the turtle nesting season in July, for example, South American Explorations organise fantastic experiences which begin on the country’s Caribbean coast (where, in Tortuguero National Park, green, loggerhead and hawksbill turtles can be observed nesting at night), then move across to the country’s Pacific edge for whale-watching excursions along the shore and horse-rides through coffee plantations in the highlands.

A nine night bespoke itinerary costs from £2,295 per person (based on two people sharing) including flights, transfers and accommodation. (southamericanexplorations.com)

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Hilltop, Wales

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At the end of a private track Hilltop awaits overlooking a peaceful Welsh valley just south of Betws y Coed with a view in every direction. Lovingly restored from original farm buildings, this tranquil and private home is rustic from the outside but modern living welcomes you inside (there’s a Nespresso machine for those caffeine-addicts like me). Heated by traditional log burning stoves, the cottage has three bedrooms and a large living kitchen. Sleeping four people, one bedroom is located on a mezzanine above the kitchen with valley views and the second double bedroom is accessed via ladder steps. Perfect for alfresco dining with its stone built BBQ and enclosed garden it makes a picture-perfect place to relax and enjoy the view. It’s also a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts with Snowdonia valleys and mountains to explore with Colwyn Bay close by as well as Betwys Y Coed and Llanrwst.

Hilltop is part of the exclusive collection of holiday homes from Sheepskinlife so you’ll benefit from a passionate team who will do all the hard work for you researching any specific interests and send you a tailor-made guide before you arrive so that you are all set to enjoy your haven. Plus, you’ll get a Sheepskin goodie bag complete with own blend coffee, Teapigs, Sheepskin fudge and other tasty treats. £600 for three nights and £1,145 for seven nights. (sheepskinlife.com)

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San Camp, Botswana If your idea of enjoying the great outdoors involves getting up close and personal with the resident wildlife, look no further than this charming camp set in Botswana’s incredible Makgadikgadi Pans, a relic of one of the world’s largest super-lakes which dried up thousands of years ago thanks to the continued shifting of the earth’s crust. The camp itself is made up of six majestic white Morroccan-style tents, as cool and breezy as they are stylish and surrounded by picturesque doum palms which break up the perfectly flat landscape that otherwise stretches out to the horizon in every direction.

Guests can get to grips with the land in a whole host of unique ways, from meeting members of the San bushmen, the oldest traditional tribe in Africa and unrivalled in their knowledge of their surroundings, to sleeping out on the vast Makgadikgadi salt pans and getting acquainted with a family of meerkats, only found in the Kalahari region of Africa and notorious for climbing onto the heads of visiting tourists who’ve sat down to play in order to get a better view of the surrounding desert.

From £3,750 per person for three nights. (theluxurysafaricompany.com)

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Triumph & As the sporting world (or, at least, the 71 participating nations) turns its attention to Glasgow for the start of the 20th Commonwealth Games on 23 July, Alex Harrison reflects on the origin and evolution of the so-called ‘Friendly Games’ and five of their most memorable moments

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tragedy T

imes have certainly changed since the inaugural 1930 British Empire Games (as they were then known) were held in Hamilton, Canada. Just 11 countries participated across six sports in fairly humble conditions. Whereas athletes in Glasgow can look forward to a purpose-built Athletes’ Village with

 The Big Country One of the strengths of the Commonwealth Games compared to the Olympics is that they encourage smaller and less wealthy nations to showcase their athleticism; in the absence of certain sporting giants (notably the USA, China and Russia) the chances of taking home a medal are significantly boosted. Of course, the quality of sport is still world-class, with Australians in the pool, Jamaicans on the track and Scots on their bikes, but in certain sports there are real opportunities for countries with flags whose victorious flutterings are yet to disturb Olympic skies. The nation of Nauru in

luxury lodging, a retail area, training facilities and medical site, the 1930 Games were more utilitarian, with competitors lodging at a local high school, two dozen to a classroom. The 84 years of Commonwealth Games history have provided their fair share of dramatic highs and lows; we look back at five defining moments.

the South Pacific is a perfect example of a country seizing such chances.

With a land area of eight square miles, Nauru is the world’s second smallest nation (after Vatican City). If it were a London borough, it would be one of the smallest; in fact the world’s entire population of Nauruans would comfortably fit within the home ground of Scunthorpe United. Despite a limited stock of athletes to draw on, Nauru has won at least two medals at each of the five Games in which they have competed, all within the field of weightlifting. It was at the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland that Nauru first stepped 

from left: The 2006 commonwealth games in melbourne (photo: jimmy harris); roger bannister completes the subfour-minute mile

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Nigeria’s Osayemi Oludamola was elevated from silver to gold, while ungraciously complaining that her fellow athletes should be able to follow simple rules. Following a positive drugs test result Oludamola was later also disqualified, with the gold medal finally being awarded to Natasha Mayers of St Vincent and the Grenadines (who had finished third place in the original race). into sporting history, when Marcus Stephen surprised competitors and spectators alike by coming out of nowhere (or at least from a country that nobody had heard of) and securing gold in the 60kg Snatch event. This was the start of an illustrious sporting career for Stephen, who went on to win 11 further medals in subsequent Commonwealth Games. And in 2007, in a surprising career shift reminiscent of Arnold Schwarzenegger (sans movie stardom), Stephen was elected President of Nauru, and enjoyed four years in office (before resigning due to allegations of corruption).

 And the Winner Is…?

Amidst the logistical setbacks and blunders that plagued the 2010 Commonwealth Games in Delhi (including inadequate lavatories, collapsing bridges and the unwanted attendance of many snakes and monkeys), one of the most infamous controversies was the final of the Women’s 100m sprint. England’s Laura Turner and Australia’s Sally Pearson had a simultaneous false start; however only Turner was disqualified. Despite commenting that she thought she had also had a false start, Pearson went on to win the rerun with an unremarkable time of 11.28 seconds. It wasn’t until Pearson had completed a tearful victory lap, proudly brandishing her nation’s flag, that she was informed of the protests against her win and was ultimately disqualified.

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 The Miracle

Mile

The year 1954 was a landmark date in the history of middle distance running, with England’s Roger Bannister famously breaking the four minute mile barrier in May of that year, with a time of three minutes, 59.4 seconds. Less well known (amongst Britons, at least) is that Australia’s John Landy broke this record by more than a second, just six weeks later.

And so, with the only two men in the world to have ever run sub-four minute mile competing, the Men’s Mile Run event in the August 1954 British Empire and Commonwealth Games was justifiably billed as a “clash of the titans”. The eyes of the world turned to Vancouver in the hopes of a dramatic showdown between superhuman athletes at the peaks of their careers, and they were not disappointed.

Landy’s plan was to establish an early lead so vast that it would be impossible for Bannister to catch up, even with his trademark finishing burst. For the first few laps this tactic appeared to be working, with Landy leading Bannister by ten yards. However Bannister was wise to his rival’s strategy, and realised that he would need to gradually make up the ground in time for the final sprint. With one lap to go, Landy’s lead had shrunk to just a few strides. As Bannister stalked him around the final bend, Landy slowed infinitesimally to glance over his left shoulder, where he saw nothing but empty track. The Englishman had crept up on Landy’s

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right side and was powering ahead to the roar of a deafening crowd; he won the gold with a time of three minutes, 58.8 seconds. Amazingly, Landy’s time of three minutes, 59.6 seconds, which had been considered an impossible feat just months earlier, was only enough to warrant second place.

 A Tragic Turn Later on in the same afternoon as the BannisterLandy ‘Miracle Mile’, the spectators of the 1954 Games were party to a tragic moment in athletics history. England’s best long-distance runner, Jim Peters, had set his sights on the gold medal for the men’s marathon, and when he reached the stadium in first place, an incredible 17 minutes ahead of his nearest competitor, victory was a foregone conclusion. However, as Peters started the final 400m lap of the race, it was apparent that something was very wrong. To the horrified silence of the crowd, Peters was on his feet but only semi-conscious, having succumbed to exhaustion and the day’s extreme heat. After stumbling just 200 metres over an agonising 11 minutes, Peters collapsed, never to race again. ‘I was lucky not to have died that day’, he later said. His Games kit, including plimsolls and the honorary medal awarded to him by

the Duke of Edinburgh following the Games (inscribed: To a most gallant marathon runner), were given to The Sports Hall of Fame, Vancouver in 1967 for exhibition.

 The Pocket Rocket Despite being the number one weight-lifter in his weight class in South Africa, the excellently named Precious McKenzie was barred (through the country’s apartheid regime) from representing his country in the 1958 British Empire and Commonwealth Games. The Pocket Rocket (so nicknamed due to his diminutive 4’ 9” stature) rejected an offer to represent South Africa at the 1964 Olympics, on the condition of segregation from his white team members, and moved himself and his family to Britain. Following a fast-tracked citizenship application, courtesy of the British minister for sport, McKenzie competed for England in the 1966 Commonwealth Games and won the gold medal.

This proved to be the start of an exceptional weightlifting career, with McKenzie going on to win consecutive golds in three further Games. In 2006 he was finally recognised by his native country with an induction into the South African Sports Hall of Fame.

It is too early to know what drama will unfold over the 11 days this summer in Glasgow. Will the likes of GB’s Farah and Rutherford re-reach the heady heights of 2012’s Super Saturday? Will a certain Mr Bolt redefine the limits of human capability (again)? Will the local talent meet their country’s understandably high expectations? And, in a year when Scotland’s future is to be decided, will the host’s successes and failures be inevitably woven into political argument? Only time will tell. (glasgow2014.com)

from left: ; the Nauru Flag; Plaque commemorating Roger Bannister’s sub-four minute mile; FAVE 2 Brisbane Commonwealth Games 1982; Mo Farah (photo: featureflash)

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summer in cheshire

THE BOLD SOMMELIER Many of you will know the face of George Bergier as he has served and advised us what to put in our glasses for more than 45 years. How many of us, though, know the story behind the gentleman?

WOR D S : L o u i s a C a s t l e

G

eorge landed in the North West in 1968, Valentine’s Day in fact, arriving at The Midland Hotel with a fold-up bicycle and small suitcase. Whilst home will always be Poland, George is very much a Manco-phile should the word indeed exist. ‘Manchester is like a village, you know a lot of people and faces and everyone was extremely welcoming. Now, it is just like a bigger village but it has the same feel nonetheless.’

I meet up with George on a sunny afternoon in Manchester and, over an expertly chosen glass of red wine, to hear his story.

Graduating in Hospitality in Poland in 1967 George’s first job took him behind the then Iron Curtain under a manager who he likens to a Wehrmacht soldier: ‘Athletics was a huge part of my life then. I was Polish junior army champ at the long jump and would spend hours training. Only later, it was not permitted. My focus became waiting on tables.’

‘It taught me a lot but it was not where I wanted to be forever, and so when my mother called me in the January of 1968 to say that British Transport Hotels had selected me to go to England I was delighted.

The next month I was on a train to Manchester to work as a wine waiter at the prestigious Midland Hotel.’

And that was that as you say. Nine years later George was managing a team of five and providing expert advice to the discerning customers. ‘I was very lucky, my boss was an absolute guru on wine and really keen on training.

Plus, we were looking after one of the most famous cellars in the country at the time.’

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George’s passion for wine stems from working as a waiter at the Western Embassies in Poland.

‘My mother worked for the Swedish Embassy and one day they were short of a steward for an event. I volunteered and was serving some of the most outstanding wines to the diplomats, and quietly sometimes tasting them.’

‘I was still studying at the time and for homework we were tasked with finding a dozen interesting wines and presenting back to the class. At a recent French Embassy dinner I had served Château Haut-Brion, 1961 I think, a first growth Bordeaux. This was one of my interesting wines.’

‘When I presented it back to the class though I pronounced it Chateaubriand and was ridiculed, even though the teacher was unaware of the wine. From then on I was determined to learn the correct pronunciations and I started reading everything I could find. I am still learning today and I love that about my job.’

And what of his favourite tipples today? ‘It has to be a refreshing gin and tonic. And it has to be Tanqueray, although I do enjoy a Hendrick’s every now and again. I’ve never converted to English beers, I prefer the Polish brands I’m afraid. I am partial to a pint of Thwaites Smooth though.’

After the Midland was sold in 1982, George went to work as Food & Beverage Manager at Manchester Airport and then the St James’s Club on Charlotte Street (now rehoused on King Street) which he ‘has to say, was one of the best jobs ever.’

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‘I was General Manager and I loved it. We had 80 to 90 covers at lunch and one of the biggest consumers of port in Manchester. It was only open five days a week which allowed me to spend some much appreciated time with my daughter who was born in 1982.’

‘It is from here that I get my love of a proper Sunday lunch, but it has to be rib as that was what the St James’s Club demanded, cooked just-so or it would be sent back.’

‘I was on a train to Manchester to work as a wine waiter at the prestigious Midland Hotel’ Whilst at the Club, George was also chairman of the North West Guild of Sommeliers, a position he held until 2011 when, due to not enough industry support, the Guild had to be disbanded. Teaching and sharing his knowledge is something George is passionate about so this was a huge disappointment to him: ‘I think there was a new breed of people coming through at this time and no real emphasis upon educating the next generation.’

‘I will give you an example; I would often visit Willoughby’s wine store and happened to be in there one day when the manager took a call from a regular customer who was looking to buy some Cristal. Now there is only one Cristal, you don’t need to explain any further.

‘But the manager was out of stock and so rang around a few places to see where he could direct his client. One such call was to Kendals’ wine department. When the manager explained he was looking for Cristal the person on the other end of the phone politely put him through to the crystal department. I was amazed!’

After a stint at the Four Seasons Hale, George was tempted back to The Midland by the hotel’s manager Sean McCarthy and took up the position of Banqueting Manager. There he proudly took control of the centenary celebrations of Rolls-Royce and of the hotel itself. He has proud, fond memories of this time; of chef hand printing the menus three times a day; of the 24 hour bakery; of the 12 Grand Marque Champagne houses which had been served at the hotel since 1906.

Today George works at the very British Victorian Chophouse Company as host and Head Wine Buyer. If the owner, Roger Ward, has anything to do with it (he reportedly has said ‘George, as long as you can walk, you have a job with me.’) he will be there for a while.

If you get the chance, catch George at one of the chop houses he works in today, and you will be sure to be charmed by the stories (there are far too many to squeeze in here) and enthused with the passion. Who knows, he may tempt you to try a tasting or food-matching session. He promises me that there are no silly questions and no wrong answers, just personal taste.

George Bergier will be honoured at the Variety Legends of Industry awards in November. He will be dedicating his award to his daughter, great inspiration and friend, who passed away last September. (variety.org.uk; samschophouse.com)

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summer in cheshire

THE PERFECT SUMMER TIPPLES Refreshing drinks in the garden or on the terrace is the perfect way to end a summer’s day. Three experts share their favourite drinks for this season

THE CHOICEST COCKTAILS Karl Smith – Head Bars Manager, Harvey Nichols, Manchester Summer is all about socialising and sunshine, being outside in the great outdoors with family and friends, fresh flavoursome food and even better drinks, which is why cocktails are the perfect drink to sip on for this time of year.

F O R HIM

F O R HE R

M O C K TA I L

Whisky Radler

Rose Sangaree

Homemade Ginger Beer

Radler, literally translated in German as ‘Cyclist’ and known throughout Europe as a sports drink, our ‘Whisky Radler’ cocktail is a very light and refreshing drink to quench your thirst on a summer evening. We mix lemon and lime juice with a little whisky to give ours extra oomph and top up with passion fruit syrup for that added tang and finish it off with a blonde beer.

Recipe • 25ml light Speyside whisky, we use Glenmorangie Original • 10ml lemon juice • 5ml lime juice • 10ml sugar syrup, we use passion fruit syrup • A dash of angostura bitters Method Shake all ingredients in a cocktail shaker and strain into a beer goblet filled with ice.

Top up with a blonde beer, such as TicketyBrew Blonde ale.

A sangaree is a single serving of sangria, which is usually a wine based mixture with brandy and fruit and topped with lemonade or soda. Our take on the classic uses Harvey Nichols Rosé, topped with citrus flavours, sugar, gin and a hint of peach and raspberry. So, so good if we say so ourselves.

Recipe • 50ml Harvey Nichols Rosé Wine • 25ml gin, we use Tanqueray Rangpur for its heavy citrus notes • 5ml lemon juice • 5ml lime juice • 10ml sugar syrup • A dash of peach bitters • 5ml raspberry liqueur Method Shake all of the ingredients with sliced fresh fruit of your choice in a cocktail shaker. Once mixed, pour into a tall glass or goblet and top up with soda. Garnish with mint and strawberries.

A non-alcoholic drink to enjoy throughout summer, the preparation to make your homemade ginger beer is well worth the wait.

Recipe • 1kg root ginger, peeled and chopped • 1kg caster sugar • Juice and zest of 1 lemon • 2 litres of water Method Add all of your ingredients to a large cooking pan. Stir in the caster sugar until dissolved and bring to the boil.

Once boiling, turn the heat down and let it simmer for one hour, placing a cartouche over the pan to slow down the reduction of moisture. Cover and allow to cool. Once cooled sufficiently, pour all of the mixture into a blender and blitz into a thick, even consistency. Strain through a sieve or chinois, squeezing the liquid out of the fibrous ginger mixture.

Bottle and keep refrigerated.

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WONDERFUL WINES

Nyetimber Classic Cuvee

George Bergier, Sommelier, The Victorian Chophouse Company With wine, serving temperature is just as important as flavour. As the mercury rises outside it’s much more enjoyable to drink something chilled. That’s why a glass of white or rosé always goes down a treat in summer. The light, fruity characteristics of these wines mean they are perfect for summer drinking.

You aren’t just limited to those two though. In summer, you shouldn’t be afraid to pop a light red in the fridge when it gets warmer; it brings the fresh fruit flavours out at the expense of tannin.

Think being patriotic only extends to sporting events?

Think again. This wonderful sparkling wine from Sussex is the best of British. It has all the yeasty brioche notes you could ask for with a refreshing citrus edge to cleanse the palate.

Just as good as champagne.

THE BEST BEER Melissa Cole, beer expert and author of Let Me Tell You About Beer Beer is the drink of summer, never mind those fruity drinks with funny bits of green in them, we are Britain, we are beer drinkers and we make pretty darn good ones. Here are my picks for your supping pleasure.

Spy Valley Pinot Noir This wine from Spy Valley is typical of Marlborough Pinot. Put it in the fridge for 15 minutes and you’ll notice how fresh the blackcurrant aromas become. It’s a great lunch accompaniment, think chicken salads or sharing platters.

Rosé de l’Hospitalet From the South of France where they really know their stuff when it comes to summer drinking. This crisp and complex rosé has notes of strawberry and raspberry. It’s perfect for sipping in the sun.

RedWillow Brewery Feckless 4.1%ABV A bit better than your ordinary bitter and a great beer to have in the fridge after a long day in the office. Understated earthy, herbal nose, leads into a full but refreshing wholemeal bread body with a hint of honey and ends off with a little peppery kick. (redwillowbrewery.com)

St Austell Proper Job 5.5%ABV A fantastic interpretation of an India Pale Ale, this has caramelised orange, caramel, and elderflower on the nose, spritzy ginger, grapefruit and dry blackcurrant and finishes on a crescendo of grapefruit zest and hay.

Available in Tesco

Fuller’s Frontier 4.5%ABV Fuller’s is best known for ales and this is almost a lager for ale drinkers: lemon, fresh white bread and orange blossom with a lively carbonation and lime finish. (fullers.co.uk)

Shepherd Neame Brilliant Ale 5.6%ABV A great stepping stone for those looking to move away from commodity brands and into more esoteric offerings.

Lemon zest and a slight pine needle are accelerated across the tongue by the lively bubbles to finish in a refreshing crescendo of mown grass.

Available in Morrisons

Melissa Cole will be sharing more hints and tips at The Foodies Festival, Tatton Park, 18-20 July, foodiesfestival.com 37

s u m m e r i n ch e s h i r e

THE PERFECT PICNIC Guy Day, Head Chef at Weston Park, shares his top tips for perfect picnics this summer. Forget soggy sandwiches and warm lemonade...

N

umber one, pile the family into the car and find a nice spot. Of course there is nothing quite like Weston on a beautiful summer’s day but I am biased.

Number two, make sure you have delicious dishes that will feed the family with the minimum of fuss. Keep it simple though.

I normally take a savoury tart, wild mushroom and parmesan goes down very well or a simple caramelised onion, red pepper and local goats’ cheese tart normally does the trick.

For the best ever all-in-one sandwich you could try a picnic loaf. Take a large loaf of crusty bread or a sourdough round and slice the ‘lid’ off the top. Carefully pull out the soft bread so that you leave a shell ready to be stuffed with your favourite ingredients. I like to fill it with chargrilled Mediterranean vegetables dressed in pesto, chunky chorizo sausage slices and soft mozzarella cheese. Press the filling down and

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Somerset picnic hamper, from a selection, Linley (davidlinley.com)

place the lid back on the top. Wrap tightly in cling film and pop in the fridge overnight. Cut into wedges and enjoy.

For a twist on the classic sausage roll you could make a sausage, sage and apple wellington. Lightly caramelise slices of apple, half a sliced onion and finely chopped sage in a little butter and leave to cool. Halve a block of ready to roll puff pastry and roll into two sheets.

‘For a twist on the classic sausage roll you could make a sausage, sage and apple wellington’

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RECIPE

Lemon Posset Ingredients 600ml double cream 200g golden caster sugar Zest of three lemons plus 75ml lemon juice

Method Put the cream in a large saucepan with the sugar and gently heat, stirring, until the sugar has melted. Bring to a simmer and bubble for one minute. Turn off the heat and stir in the lemon zest and juice. Divide between pots or bowls, cool to room temperature and then carefully cover and chill for at least six hours or overnight.

Place the apple and sage mix on one sheet, pile on some good quality sausage meat, place the other sheet of pastry on top and crimp all the way round. Brush with beaten egg and bake until golden brown. Slice and serve.

For a nice pasta salad, dress some cooked pasta in sundried tomatoes, a light oregano vinaigrette and parmesan shavings.

Dips and nibbles are easy to prepare and enjoy, homemade hummus or white beans whizzed up with lemon juice and herbs make perfect dips for dunking grissini or french bread into.

For something sweet I always pack some chocolate and cherry brownies or why not try these lemon possets (above) for pockets of tangy sweetness?

‘For something sweet I always pack some chocolate and cherry brownies or why not try these lemon possets for pockets of tangy sweetness?’ Don’t forget the drinks. Every good picnic needs some sparkle. I like to pop a few local beers in the cool box, ginger beer for the children or a nice bottle of fizz.

So all you need are some easy sharing dishes, good company and a corkscrew. (weston-park.com)

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DES GNSA E

Save up to 45% on selected furniture The BoConcept Design Sale is on! Enjoy great savings on selected sofas, dining tables, wall and media units and much more. And as we are making room for a new collection you can save up to 50% off display models.

See it all at BoConcept Manchester or go to www.boconcept.co.uk

BoConcept Manchester 路 MM2 Building 109-117 路 Great Ancoats Street 路 M4 5AG Manchester 路 Tel. 0161 228 7111

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Q&A with…

Stuart Duff, Exec Chef, Hilton Deansgate

Q: What makes British food great?

A: The ever changing seasons make British food honest and not pretentious. We live on an island surrounded by water and amazing greenery, making our food so fantastic throughout each of the four seasons.

Q: What’s currently hot in the foodie world?

A: Street food or bowl food, as it is sometimes known as, is happening in the United States. It’s definitely on its way over here too. Eating on the go is getting more popular due to everyone’s hectic schedules, not always a good thing, but definitely a reality. As always American Tex-Mex is also very popular and barbeque food is proving to be the fave with the UK diner.

Q: What is your first childhood memory of food?

A: I used to absolutely love my Gran’s Sunday roast. Delicious. Made up of heavily peppered mashed potatoes, crispy – on the verge of burnt – roasties, carrots, swedes and topped off with loads of roast beef. She even gave me my own special job stirring the gravy.

Q: What would be your food heaven and hell?

A: Heaven would be the traditional, English fry-up. Not forgetting the all-important buttered toast. What’s not to love? Food hell would have to be anything with ground almonds in it.

Q: What are your dinner party tips?

A: Always remember to have everything prepared so it’s just the execution you have to focus on. Your guests won’t know that so they’ll think you’re some kind of kitchen genius. If you’re looking for a fail-safe dish, dauphinoise potatoes are always a hit. The secret trick is to press the potatoes overnight. But shh that’s our secret…

Q: What do you consider your greatest achievement?

A: Definitely my three children, Connor (15), Elliot (12) and Scarlett (7), not forgetting my lovely wife Nicola, who has always been by my side. She lets me get on with being a bad tempered chef that works crazy hours, weekends, bank holidays, every wedding anniversary, Christmas, the lot. She puts up with a lot, but is definitely a calming influence on me. She’s no pushover though.

Q: Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

A: Anthony Bourdain, the American chef, he’s a proper bloke and he has the scars and burns of a chef who’s been there and done it; Eric Cantona because he is the coolest man on earth; Sir Alex Ferguson, as you can be sure he’d keep the conversation going with all those changing room stories, and my best mate John, who will always keep my feet on the ground and loves to make fun of me for being a chef.

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Art news

With a glimpse into Manchester’s past, a local art teacher putting her school on the map, and a chat with an awardwinning sculptor, Cheshire’s local art scene is more exciting than ever this month w o r d s : g e mm a k n i g h t

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Cityscape June 10 saw one of Lancashire-born artist L.S. Lowry’s most significant works go to auction, selling for an incredible £2.3 million at Sotheby’s as part of a sale of modern and post-war British art. The painting, Station Approach, Manchester, is regarded as one of Lowry’s finest, painted in 1960 and depicting the scene outside Manchester’s London and North Western Railway Exchange Station during rush hour.

Funnily enough, the beautiful old Victorian façade of the station had already been taken down by the time Lowry created the painting, making it all the more important as a record of the city’s heritage. (sothebys.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art

Local talent Following her recent success exhibiting work alongside world renowned artist Tracey Emin at The Spirit of Womanhood Exhibition, Chester-based Queen’s Senior School art teacher Louisa Poole has now had her stunning hand-crafted books chosen for the prestigious 250 year-old Royal Academy of Arts Summer Exhibition. Louisa, who exhibits under the name Louisa Boyd, said she was ‘absolutely delighted to have my work displayed in such a prestigious exhibition and alongside so many established artists,’ adding ‘Most importantly the exhibition gives the public an opportunity to L.S. Lowry, Station see what is happening in the contemporary art Approach 1960 image courtesy world and it is very exciting to have a platform to of Sotheby’s be able to show my contribution towards this.’ (louisaboyd.com)

Post-war pioneer America’s architecture flourished in the decades which followed the Second World War, giving rise to innovative new designs which combined low-cost materials and modern design thanks to the efforts of such greats as Neutra, Schindler, Saarinen, Ellwood and Lautner. Documenting and motivating the progress in equal measure was Arts & Architecture, a ground-breaking publication and one of the era’s leading American journals. Now architecture buffs can own all the covers and highlights from the first five years of this legendary magazine in the latest coffee-table offering from TASCHEN, making for a truly fabulous record of the exciting world of mid-century American architecture in all its glory. (taschen.com)

Q&A with…

Award-winning sculptor Ben Panting Q: You recently finished your first solo show since 1992, what convinced you to take the plunge again after 22 years?

A: Since my time at the Royal College of Art my work has varied greatly from quite traditional figurative bronzes to work inspired by movement and line and that which integrates colour and found objects. Despite having showed my work in various group shows I have concentrated over the intervening years on site-specific sculpture commissions, from the very public Old Trafford stadium to the intimacy of private gardens. There is a great challenge and inspiration that comes from creating a sculpture that will live in a chosen environment, whether that involves working with architects or private clients. The sculpture for my current Mallett’s show brings together one strand of my oeuvres, that of classically sculpted bronze animals, the variety and expressiveness of which I find so beautiful and intriguing.

Q: Your work is very visceral and emotive, where does your inspiration typically come from?

A: I’m glad you used the word visceral as the guts and intuition can play an important role in the way one relates to an art object. Although I have been through the art school system I believe anyone, adult or child, should be able to appreciate the elements from that vast communicative category we call art. Direct perception is for me the key to making objects in and beholding the world, beauty can hit you in the chest or the stomach. I hope my art works with many layers of meaning, and my inspiration comes from the contradictions, absurdities and mysterious quality of beauty itself.

Q: You sculpted and showcased several pieces at the Bolesworth International horse show. What pieces did you create and how did they complement the event?

A: Three pieces I showcased were originally sculpted at Nina Barbour’s first competition. I was working right next to the jumping ring and sculpted the three phases of a jump, from take-off to landing. I couldn’t have asked for better models.

Since meeting Anthony and Diana Barbour many years ago at the Olympia International Art & Antiques Fair I have been lucky enough to sculpt Nina’s horses and many humans and animals for gardens in and around Cheshire. (benpanting.com) (bolesworthinternational.com)

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HORST:

PHOTOGRAPHER OF STYLE

Truly a master of his art, Horst is immortalised this autumn in a stunning V&A exhibition of his finest photographs, charting his journey from 1930s Paris to postwar New York, and from the fifties in the Middle East, to a string of industry awards WORDS: JOSEPHINE O’DONOGHUE

I below: Dinner suit and headdress by Schiaparelli, 1947, Conde Nast, Horst Estate

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t goes without saying that for someone like Anna Wintour to write the foreword of a book summarising your career, you’d have to have done something pretty spectacular with your life.

As it happens, German born American photographer Horst P. Horst (1906-99) – honoured in September at the V&A Museum with a magnificent exhibition and new book – had a truly remarkable career.

One of the leading photographers of the twentieth century, he produced over 90 Vogue covers in his 60 year career whilst imaginatively inspiring and being inspired by art, fashion, design and the theatre he surrounded himself with – publishing books and capturing beautiful images along the way.

Impossible to confine to one genre, Horst is known not only for his mesmerising fashion

images, but also for his vivid photographs of interior and garden design, delicate images of patterns in nature, silver screen portraits of Hollywood greats and documentary images from Syria, Israel and Iran.

His distinctive style drew influences from countries, environments, cultures and styles from all over the world – a unique combination that makes his canon of work both fascinating and beautiful.

The Exhibition To honour and chart his art and achievement 15 years after his death, the V&A is gearing up to present the ‘definitive retrospective exhibition of the work of master photographer Horst P. Horst’ from 6 September – 4 January, in one glorious collection.

‘Horst was one of the greatest photographers of fashion and society and produced some of the most famous and evocative images of the 20th century,’ said Martin Roth, Director of the V&A, ‘This exhibition will shine a light on all aspects of his long and distinguished career.’

Horst: Photographer of Style will showcase 250 photographs, alongside haute couture garments, magazines and film footage. Visitors to the exhibition will see the diversity of his art, from surreal, still-life pictures to portraits of Hollywood stars, nudes, nature studies and documentary photos.

Highlights include Horst’s collaborations with Coco Chanel, Elsa Schiaparelli, Marlene Dietrich and Salvador Dalí, to name but a few.

Also included are photographs donated to the V&A by art collector and owner of the Horst Estate, Gert Elfering.

Beginning in the 1930s, the exhibition will

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art

above: Summer Fashions, American Vogue cover 15 May 1941, Conde Nast, Horst Estate

guide visitors from his pre-war Parisian haute couture photography and Vogue Paris, over the Atlantic to New York City to his work with American Vogue, and around the world during the 1950s, as Horst documented change in the Middle East and revealed his interest in ancient architecture.

Moving through the exhibition, incredibly detailed studies of natural forms such as flowers, minerals and shells gave Horst focus and these kaleidoscopic collages prove to demonstrate another layer of his design based mind – his objective being that the patterns would find purpose in textiles, wallpaper or carpets.

Horst’s interest in interior design can be seen in his luxurious images from the 1960s and 1970s, in his work for House and Garden and Vogue under the direction of editor Diana Vreeland – his vision of Karl Lagerfeld’s Art Deco apartment and the Roman palazzo of artist Cy Twombly are particularly noteworthy.

And for those visitors interested in the creative construction of his work, the exhibition will showcase supporting artefacts, including contact sheets, sketches and cameras, allowing further insight into the photographer’s mind. A physical timeline of Horst’s great achievements will guide visitors in an exploration of his artistic process, from finding inspiration in the ancient Classical art of the Louvre, to the Bauhaus ideals of

from top: Marlene Dietrich, New York 1942, Conde Nast Horst Estate; Salvador Dalis costumes for Leonid Massines ballet Bacchanale, 1939, Conde Nast Horst Estate

modern design and the influence of 1930s Paris.

For fashion enthusiasts and art lovers alike, Horst: Photographer of Style is a unique opportunity to embrace the art of a master photographer through this exhibition.

Horst: Photographer of Style, V&A Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL. Tickets, £8 (concessions available) 020 7420 9736 (vam.ac.uk/horst)

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Cheshire’s

summer exhibition There will be around 20 of our highly prestigious Royal Academicians exhibiting their work, alongside that of other talented artists, in Atelier Rose & Gray’s very own Summer Exhibition WORDS: CAROL CORDREY

above, from left: Love by David Mach; Kerry Stone

by Barbara Rae; opposite page: Sing

by Bob and Roberta Smith

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O

ne of the joys of summer is the string of cultural events that encourage us to go out of our homes to enjoy ourselves, regardless of the weather. A major attraction amongst that string of events is London’s Summer Exhibition, an indoor event which has become the world’s largest open submission exhibition that provides a platform for the Royal Academicians as well as other artists who send in their work for selection. But how fortunate we are in this region because we can enjoy our own, indoor version of this prime artistic event – the Summer Exhibition at Atelier Rose & Gray – where the finest contemporary work by at least 20 current Royal Academicians will be available to enjoy or buy, regardless of the weather and without the need for that arduous journey to London. So by way of further encouragement, here’s my selection of some of

the artists you might want to look out for.

The prestigious role of Leader of this year’s Hanging Committee at the London Summer Exhibition has fallen on the shoulders of Hughie O’Donoghue. He is a Northern artist (born in Manchester) who has achieved international fame by embracing traditional painting skills and draughtsmanship to create his distinctive fusion of figurative and abstract art. Newly represented by Atelier Rose & Gray, he engages viewers with his vibrant, textured paintings that are developed from his fascination with human identity and history.

For show-stopping sculpture that instantly resonates with the viewer, don’t miss the work of David Mach. His career has demonstrated that the most unusual materials can be employed to create brilliant, figurative work. ‘l like to work in as many different materials

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Art

as possible’ said Mach who has demonstrated his approach through extraordinary works such as a life-sized train constructed from bricks, serious portraiture created from postcard pieces and an enormous, roaring gorilla made from mere coat hanger hooks which caused a public and media sensation a few years ago.

The current President of the Royal Academy is Christopher Le Brun, a polymath in artistic terms who has achieved great success with painting, sculpture, and printmaking, demonstrating his interest in blurring boundaries between abstraction and figuration. His work has been shown around the globe and in 2000 he became the Royal Academy’s first Professor of Drawing.

The late Sandra Blow used vibrant colour and geometric elements to captivating effect in her

placards that are intended to shake the public’s consciousness and invoke social, cultural and political change. He achieved fame with his painting Make Art Not War and his latest work has taken this year’s London Summer Exhibition by storm; huge in scale, it is the painted transcript of the memorable and harrowing interview between Doctor David Nott and Radio 4’s PM presenter, Eddie Mair, about the experiences of being a surgeon in a secret hospital in Syria that he equated to working ‘in a bloodbath’.

Summer Exhibition, throughout August (atelierrosegray.co.uk)

‘Often recycled ones – can be employed to create brilliant, figurative work’ purely abstract collages. They were often large in scale and very tactile resulting from her enthusiasm for blending discarded materials with the paint that she applied to her works.

Blow was one of the most prominent figures in 20th century British Abstraction.

Painting and printmaking occupied the late Patrick Caulfield who became known as a master of the mundane. His oeuvre was strongly influenced by advertising and characterised by brightly coloured, flat, simple compositions that united everyday objects, such as jugs, vases and chairs. Sometimes they were enhanced by strong linear devices which introduced an architectural aspect but all his scenes were compelling and accessible to a wide public, making them extremely popular both during and beyond his lifetime.

Bob and Roberta Smith is the pseudonym for the individual artist, Patrick Brill, whose work is held in the Tate Collection. He is known for creating art in the form of painted signs and

ROYAL ACADEMICIANS REPRESENTED

BY ATELIER ROSE & GRAY

Joe Tilson Barbara Rae Humphrey Ocean Albert Irvin Allen Jones Tracey Emin John Hoyland Norman Ackroyd Stephen Chambers Eileen Cooper

Patrick Caulfield Peter Blake David Mach Basil Beattie Christopher Le Brun Bob and Roberta Smith Terry Frost Sandra Blow Gary Hume

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TOM HAMMICK DREAMSCAPES

PAINTINGS, WOODCUTS & DRYPOINTS 3 June – 26 July 2014

ARTIST’S TALK: Thursday 24 July 7-9pm Please join us for an artists talk with Tom Hammick, with light supper and drinks.

This is a free, all welcome event, but please RSVP to reserve your seat for the talk.

RSVP: 0161 928 4021 / info@atelierrosegray.co.uk

Atelier Rose & Gray Gallery Beech House, Cambridge Road Hale WA15 9SY Telephone: 0161 928 4021 Tue – Sat 10.00 – 5.30pm or privately by appointment

E: info@atelierrosegray.co.uk W: www.atelierrosegray.co.uk

The cheshire Magazine | Art

PRIZE LOTs

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1 #1 Three Danish glass models of jellyfish in tubes by Steffen Dam Made entirely of glass as to give the appearance of specimen samples and each bearing an etched signature reading ‘Dam 2.11’, these pieces are truly – as the title of the sale denotes – Out of the Ordinary. With the tallest and smallest standing 26cm and 20cm high respectively, the works are typical of Dam’s proclivity for exploring the anomalies and flaws of glass.

Exhibition and auction at Christie’s, 3 September; Estimated range: £8,000-12,000 (christies.com)

#2 Pluto Aged Twelve by Lucian Freud This fine etching printed with tone in 2000 depicts German-born painter Lucian Freud’s pet whippets. The piece is initialled and numbered 12/46 in pencil and will be auctioned as part of Bonham’s forthcoming

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Prints & Multiples sale. The late Freud is known chiefly for his thickly impastoed portrait and figure paintings and was widely considered the pre-eminent British artist of his time.

Exhibition and auction at Bonhams, 15 July; Estimated range: £50,000-70,000 (bonhams.com)

#3 Ironing by Hayv Kahraman Due to be sold as part of Sotheby’s Contemporary Art/Doha sale in October, this intriguing oil on linen work was created in 2009 by controversial Iraqi artist Hayv Kahraman, known for her frequent addressing of taboo issues such as gender, honour killings and war.

The piece measures 106.6cm by 172.7cm and is typical of the artist’s trademark heavily stylised technique.

Exhibition and auction at Sotheby’s Doha, 13 October; Estimated range: $30,000-40,000 (sothebys.com)

clockwise from left: christie’s images ltd; image courtesy of bonhams; Image: © sotheby’s

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Cheshire Wellness UK, more widely known as Cheshire Spas and Pools, designs and builds award winning and innovative spas, swimming pools and heat experience rooms, from traditional saunas and steam rooms to the more exotic mud baths, igloos and meditation rooms.

Established in 1965, the company works for commercial and private clients throughout Europe. the Middle East, the USA and South America.

Cheshire Wellness UK has grown into one of the largest pool and spa shell manufacturing operations in Europe, operating from a current 30,000sq ft factory unit with further expansion planned to cope with the anticipated growth in business.

We offer a complete in-house service from concept to completion from initial design in our design studio to mould making and complete shell manufacturing. We also offer a design and installation service for commercial and residential swimming pool, Hydro Spas, Hammam tables and all types of heat experience rooms from saunas to snow rooms.

Cheshire Wellness, Ronald House, Clayhill Industrial Park, Neston, Cheshire CH64 3TA Tel: 0151 336 3417 sales@cheshirewellness.co.uk www.cheshirewellness.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

Second Time aRound

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atch connoisseurs will be thrilled to learn of the subtle development to Richard Mille’s sought-after RM 011 model, which launched seven years ago. The updated model, the RM 11-02 Automatic Flyback Chronograph Dual Time Zone (£116,500), includes a UTC feature for the indication of a second time zone with a Super-Luminova-filled hand, along with the traditional functions of the original, such as the Flyback Chronograph, annual calendar with oversized date, 60-minute countdown timer and 24 hour totaliser.

The PVD-treated titanium movement is fitted with two winding barrels and an automatic winding rotor with variable geometry supplying circa 50 hours of power reserve. Watch geeks will no doubt recognise RM 011 design elements on the new timepiece. (richardmille.com)

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After eight For the house of Dior, eight is a very lucky number, representing the opening day of its first couture house (8 October 1946), the eponymous designer’s Avenue Montaigne address in the eighth arrondissement of Paris and the name of the first couture collection, En Huit. So it was only fitting that the first ceramic timepiece created by the house would feature the numeric symbol VIII. Previewed at Baselworld, the new Dior VIII Montaigne timepiece collection marks one of the biggest from the brand this year and it will be available towards the end of July. Prices start from an accessible £2,350 and the pieces come in three different sizes – 25mm, 32mm and 36mm – as well as in a selection of metals, including stainless steel and pink gold.

Dior VIII Montaigne collection, launching end of July; dior.com

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

Watch news

Treasured timepieces, horological heirlooms and modern masterpieces WORDS: RICHARD BROWN

Symphonic seduction Not only is it drop-dead gorgeous, but Parmigiani Fleurier’s Tecnica Ombre Blanche is one of the most complicated timepieces in production. Housing a tourbillon, a minute repeater, a perpetual calendar and a power reserve indicator, the creation incorporates some of the most prestigious functions in watchmaking. Proof that Parmigiani has mastered the most complex of horological pursuits, the Tecnica Ombre Blanche will chime the hours, quarter hours and minutes of the day with enchanting clarity. At 13mm thick, the rose-gold case is particularly slender for a timepiece with a minute repeater, which is activated by pivoting a knurled bezel delicately integrated into the profile of the watch, rather than through a traditional side bolt.

The watch comprises 504 components and 18ct rose-gold case, dial and lugs. No surprise, then, that it costs £445,000. (parmigiani.ch)

Breitling’s Space Odyssey A month after The Cheshire Magazine team took to the Gloucestershire skies with the Breitling Jet Team (an experience we’re still yet to come down from), the brand has announced that its dedication to aviation will take it to the edge of the stratosphere next year. That’s when Swiss Space Systems will be opening its first weightless ZeroG flights to the public. As the project’s main partner, Breitling will provide passengers with a S3 ZeroG chronograph. Equipped with a SuperQuartz movement, it will be ten times more accurate than a standard quartz watch and act as a boarding pass for the programme’s successful applicants.

Registration has just opened. To apply, visit zerog.s-3.ch. (breitling.com)

ONE TO WATCH Each month, we ask an expert to select their timepiece of the moment from the watch world’s most exciting creations:

‘With a classic 40mm case in 904L steel, housing the perpetual motion movement and completely waterproof to 4000ft, the new Rolex Sea-Dweller 4000 is a fabulous addition to any Rolex collector’s collection.’

– Lee Chadwick, Manager at David M. Robinson, Manchester

St Anns Square, Manchester, M2 7JB (0161 834 0217, davidmrobinson.co.uk)

Luminor’s latest incarnation To celebrate the Panerai Classic Yachts Challenge reaching its 10th year, Panerai has created the Luminor Submersible 1950 3 Days Automatic Titanio. This version of the iconic dive watch comes with a 47mm case and is powered by the brand’s in-house P. 9000 calibre movement. If you’re looking for a robust, over-sized classic, you’ll do well to find better. Only 50 will be made and each will cost around £6,800.

Expect to see more on wrists of men-about-town than deep sea divers. (panerai.com)

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Extra 54

The The cheshire mayfair Magazine | Collection

Even before World Cup fever swept the‌ er‌ world, the watch industry was already getting cosy with some of the finest domestic teams. Alex Doak asks why the luxury sector would suddenly become so interested in a mass-market sport

time

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M

top: Manchester City FC (image courtesy of Richard Mille); right: Parmigiani Fleurier watch

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any moons ago, iconoclastic watchmaker Richard Mille hooked up with an obscure young tennis player called Rafael Nadal and made him a watch that cost in the region of £400,000.

It was a high-tech piece so shock-resistant that the hard-hitting rookie could wear it when he played and when he started lifting trophies, which he did at Roland Garros in 2005. Mille then made a bright, white and super-light piece for another unknown sports star – a self-taught golfer called Bubba Watson, who, sure enough, went on to win the Masters, twice, with a magnesium-cased RM038 strapped to his left wrist, still ticking despite the American’s brutal 126mph swing.

‘Richard just has this amazing ability to pick future superstars of sport,’ attests Beatrice Giusti, Mille’s communications director for Europe. ‘He can sense rising talent.’

But despite his form on sports stars, the watch world was still left scratching its head when Mille announced a partnership with Manchester City FC in 2012. Sure, we’d all spotted a chunky titanium piece on Roberto Mancini’s wrist in the dug-out but what was the sponsor of a glamorous regatta in glitzy St Barths and the highly exclusive Le Mans Classic race doing, aligning itself with an ailing Premier League team whose directors could barely afford the resulting extra-time-counter Mancini watch, let alone the fans?

The “Mille effect” has indeed come to pass, however, with Man City’s fairytale victory in the Premier League this year (Mancini-less, it must be said). And, would you believe it?

Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal and even FC Barcelona all now boast ‘official timekeeper’ partnerships; Rotary, Bulova, JeanRichard and Maurice Lacroix respectively.

The The cheshire mayfair Magazine | Collection

above: roy hodgson © 2014 Desmond O’Neill Features Ltd; Hublot’s Big Bang Unico Bi-retrograde Chronograph; right: the JeanRichard Terrascope watch; Rotary’s Chelsea watch; TAG Heuer ambassador Cristiano Ronaldo

Elsewhere, just in time for the World Cup, Switzerland’s virtuoso but rather gnomic Parmigiani Fleurier aligned with the Confederaçåo Brasileira de Futebol, releasing a version of its Pershing Yachts chronograph in the Brazilian colours (go figure). Hublot is keeping time on the World Cup as a whole, peppering the streets of Rio with oversized clocks and making friends with the legendary Pele, and Roy Hodgson. Even TAG Heuer – already blessed by the visages of Leonardo DiCaprio, Cameron Diaz and Maria Sharapova – added the greased, cherubic features of Cristiano Ronaldo to its brand-ambassador roster in May, fresh from his Champions League victory with Real Madrid. Although he was back on the pitch at the time of going to press, there was a hairy moment when competing in Rio with Portugal

looked unlikely thanks to injury, which would indeed have been just as painful for TAG Heuer’s marketing department.

But, for all the glamour and global exposure of this summer’s World Cup, what could possibly be motivating luxury watch brands to align with a traditionally workingclass sport – brands more likely to be seen adorning the hoardings of polo pitches and F1 paddocks? As you’d expect, the official line being towed by the press releases cites shared values of precision, excellence and team spirit.

However, some brands are being rather more honest about the market leverage such alignments afford. ‘London as a global city and capital is the perfect platform for JeanRichard to welcome our clients and visitors,’ said JeanRichard’s CEO Bruno Grande, fresh from a reassuringly impressive display of skill on 

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Beauty | The Collection | The mayfair cheshire Magazine Magazine

from top: Robert Dreyfuss with CFC team; Rotary’s Chelsea watch

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the hallowed turf of the Emirates during the recent launch. ‘But Arsenal has a great visibility in a lot of countries; they reach all the way to an especially big following in the US and Asia. As one of the leading teams of the English Premier League [EPL],’ Grande concludes, ‘and one of the “best to watch” soccer clubs in the world, the Gunners were, in our opinion, the perfect fit.’

Apparently, the critical factor here is the global audience that the EPL enjoys – especially in the Swiss watch industry’s most important market, Asia. As a recent BBC Online report attests, England gave football to the world, but nowadays a more accurate description is that England sells football to the world. A new EPL TV deal running from 2013-16 is worth nearly £5.5 billion, and more than £2 billion of this comes from the sale of overseas rights. Thailand, Singapore, Hong Kong and Malaysia paid £650 million between them. Any Briton who has visited southeast Asia will more than likely have been asked by locals whether they support Chelsea or Man U – something that invariably irritates diehard West Ham fans as much as football refuseniks.

So why do Asians love the EPL so much? As for many British businesses, the language helps.

The time zone helps too; games that traditionally kick off at 3pm in England will be broadcast at primetime in south-east Asia. As traditionalist fans find to their irritation, weekend matches are even staggered to maximise both the UK and Asian TV audiences.

This popularity is good news for TV networks, but also great business for producers – luxury watchmakers and jersey manufacturers alike. As Alice Tsang, an economist for Hong Kong’s Trade Development Council, attests: ‘Apparel such as football strips and jackets are the most popular items among the fans in Hong Kong. Apart from fashion items, a number of traditional English football clubs such as Arsenal and Liverpool have even set up lucrative soccer schools in Hong Kong and China respectively.’ Tsang cites the rising middle-class income and purchasing power in the East as reasons for making higher priced football-related merchandise, such as luxury watches, a more viable commercial proposition nowadays. ‘Also,’ she says, ‘by

‘The critical factor for the watch industry is the global audience that the English Premier League enjoys, especially in Asia’ manufacturing one-of-a-kind, long-lasting memorial watches for historic football teams, it reinforces the Swiss brands’ prestigious image for far longer than this seasons’s home strip.’

Whether the trend as a whole proves to be as durable as the watches themselves is yet to be seen. But given younger fans’ slavish devotion to their favourite players, a newfound passion for Swiss watches among footballing fans worldwide may be here to stay. Watch this space.

www.bachet.fr

Jewellery news This summer, enjoy jewellery exhibitions both contemporarily cool (courtesy of Shaun Leane) and traditionally elegant (Graff) W ORDS : OLIVIA SHARP E

Rare jewels This year marks the 10th anniversary of Graff Diamonds’ Monaco Rare Jewels Exhibition; held at Hôtel de Paris from 29 July to 17 August, the annual event will present the house’s very finest luxury jewels and watches. Those of you who had the misfortune to miss this year’s Baselworld will be given another chance to see the most talkedabout piece of the show; Graff’s multi-coloured diamond Hallucination watch, which broke the record for the most expensive timepiece ever created (valued at £33 million). Other remarkable pieces on display from the Graff Jewels collection include stunning tiaras, opulent brooches and elegant Alice bands, along with timepieces from the brand’s Luxury Watches collection.

Graff Diamonds’ Monaco Rare Jewels exhibition, 29 July – 17 August

CUTTING EDGE On a flying visit to London before the Vegas Couture Show, Texan-based jeweller Emily Armenta, whose eponymous jewellery brand launched 12 years ago, presented us with her latest collection. Incorporating ancient techniques such as micromosaic and stone layering, each piece within the new collection tells an intriguing story:

‘As with all my collections, I’ve tried to bring a piece of history forward and make it relevant to today. The new collection was inspired by the Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca and his vision of “duende”, which is essentially the powerful beauty of life.’

– Emily Armenta (armentacollection.com)

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Fly on the wall Until the end of August, Nick Knight’s SHOWstudio in Mayfair has been transformed into a weird and wonderful chamber of curiosities as it plays host to contemporary jewellery designer Shaun Leane’s new exhibition. Notable works from the avantgarde designer include his very first creation, a finely crafted single diamond tusk earring which was first seen on Alexander McQueen’s catwalk in 1994, not to mention a whimsical 22-carat gold jewel beetle brooch. Each bespoke piece has been thoughtfully paired with a piece of art, fashion item or natural history specimen; for example a butterfly brooch sits next to an original Damien Hirst painting, while an elaborate pair of feather hoop earrings is being shown alongside a Philip Treacy hat.

Until 29 August, Nick Knight SHOWstudio, 19 Motcomb Street, London SW1X (showstudio.com; shaunleane.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Collection

J E W E LL E RY TR E ND

Lost TRIBE Embrace the S/S14 tribal vibe with statement accessories

Chalcedony, wood, leather and bronze necklace, £1,950, by Monies at Talisman Gallery, 020 7201 8582

Heleni horn and bronze earrings, £270, Ashley Pittman net-a-porter.com)

Gold-plated horn necklace, £565, Maiyet (maiyet.com)

Royal blush Since it was discovered in 1979 by a group of geologists exploring north-west Australia, the Argyle Pink Diamond has captured the imagination of collectors and investors across the globe and among these is luxury jeweller Calleija. A Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Australia and the only Argyle Pink Diamond Select Atelier in the UK, founder John Calleija developed a passion for this rare and exquisite coloured diamond and is today recognised as one of its leading suppliers. Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, Calleija will be presenting its latest Argyle Pink Diamond creations. ‘These incredible diamonds are one of nature’s rarest creations and one of the world’s sublime wonders,’ comments John Calleija. (calleija.com)

Set free Parisian-born Raphaele Canot’s CV is certainly impressive; she has worked in jewellery design for 18 years at Cartier and De Beers. This May saw the designer break free with the launch of her first solo collection. Comprising 30 pieces, the Set Free Diamonds collection is aptly named; the range of wearable diamond pieces have, quite literally, been set loose from their traditional settings. Pieces include delicate rings and mini hoop earrings.

Available at Dover Street Market, London (raphaelecanot.com)

18-karat yellow gold oval link wood necklace set with champagne diamonds, £5,910, by Armenta at Talisman Gallery, 020 7201 8582

Shasira bone and garnet earrings, £310, Ashley Pittman (net-a-porter.com)

Stone ring, £662, Beth Orduna (farfetch.com)

Cia earrings, Sarah Angold Studio, £350 (farfetch.com)

Horn and gold-leaf cuff, £295, by Monies at Talisman Gallery, as before

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Collection | The CHESHIRE Magazine

THE LIGHT OF THE SILVERY MOON

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or a little nocturnal glamour, the new Lunar Chain adds a subtle dash of sparkle to any elegant ensemble and looks sensational next to lightly tanned skin. An extension of one of David M. Robinson’s most successful collections, this versatile necklace is available in 18 carat white, rose and yellow gold and set with diamonds, as well as adjusting to varying lengths to sit equally well with plunging and slash necklines alike. (£8,995, davidmrobinson.co.uk)

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LET CHISHOLMHUNTER.CO.UK

BLOSSOM TEL: +44 (0)844 417 6058

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MULTIPLE JEWELLER OF THE YEAR 2012 & 2013

Fashion news From the office to the beach and Triumphant lingerie to designer shades, we’ll help you look your best wherever you plan to strut your stuff this summer Shoe business Working nine ‘til five in a ‘rich man’s game’ is no mean feat but thanks to Charlotte Olympia’s new collection of killer heels, you will certainly mean business. The permanent collection includes stilettos, block heels and kitten heels spanning three heel heights depending on how adept you are at striding around the office. These come in a sophisticated and understated colour palette of burgundy, bottle green, grey, brown, black, navy and finally, for the more daring, fuchsia. Well-known for adding a touch of humour into her coveted collections, each Charlotte Olympia style comes in a briefcase-inspired shoebox which has been designed to sit underneath your desk and is paired with matching stockings. Let’s face it ladies; there’s no business like shoe business. (charlotteolympia.com; net-a-porter.com)

True romance

Stand up for fit Earlier this year Triumph asked 10,000 women about their lingerie and nearly three-quarters of them said that badly fitting lingerie can ruin their day. Not only can it cause unsightly silhouettes but can affect your posture and cause back pain, breathing problems and redness/irritation. So, in April this year Triumph began a mission to help 100,000 women find their perfect bra fit. We went along to House of Fraser to laugh, listen, learn and get fitted by their team. Most of us were wearing the wrong size! What’s more we were amazed at how a bra could feel (whether the aim was sexy or supportive). Why not try for yourself? (uk.triumph.com #StandUpForFit) 64

To the untrained eye, Dolce & Gabbana’s pre-fall 2014 collection is almost identical to its S/S14 line, featuring vibrant floral and tropical prints with matching accessories and romantic lace pieces, evoking Sicilian style and glamour. And yet, the pre-fall collection, while embodying all of these elements, has in fact been refashioned to incorporate strong silhouettes, lace panels and sequins. The result is a more laid-back, casual collection which provides the perfect transition from summer to autumn. The pre-fall collection is now available in stores. (dolcegabbana.com)

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Dallas Buyers Club Chanel’s legendary Metiers d’Arts shows have travelled far and wide, from the wildness of the Scottish Highlands to the exoticism of Singapore, and this year was no different as Karl Lagerfeld presented his pre-fall show in Dallas, Texas (several decades after Coco Chanel’s memorable visit in 1957). Sparing no expense, the designer transformed the city’s famed Fair Park into a rodeo complete with an all-American, drive-in movie theatre with 74 vintage automobiles parked in front of four giant screens which played Lagerfeld’s short film, The Return, starring Geraldine Chaplin as Coco Chanel. Channelling the wild, wild west, models resembled cowgirls in flared mid-calf skirts, stone-washed denim and prairie hues including brown, grey and wheat tones. Effortlessly stylish and contemporary, there was certainly nothing about the bad and the ugly when it came to this collection. (chanel.com)

Win this dress

All heart In collaboration with Linda Farrow, Markus Lupfer has created a collection of sunglasses modelled after his own heart, comprising fun and quirky styles including lip-printed wayfarers and, our personal favourite, over-sized, heart-shaped glasses. The new range, which arrived in stores on 22 June, was inspired by the fashion designer’s A/W14 collection featuring off-beat prints, sequins and embellishments; these elements have been translated into Linda Farrow eyewear with the use of print and glitter acetate. Set your heart on it now.

Markus Lupfer by Linda Farrow Gallery. (markuslupfer.com; lindafarrow.com)

Gucci essentials

Dress designer Alice Naomi Somauroo has launched a competition to win a unique silk dress inspired by the award winning ‘Hope on the Horizon’ garden. 20 year old Alice, from Chester, heard about the Help for Heroes garden at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and decided to fundraise for the Heroes Garden Project which is raising funds for the landscaping at Chavasse VC Recovery Centre in Colchester.

Alice worked with Help for Heroes Patron Peta Cavendish to design a dress based on Peta’s favourite flower. People are invited to enter the competition for a chance to win a very expensive, beautiful, full length dress made of duchess satin, silk gazar and chiffon by guessing correctly which is Peta’s favourite flower.

To enter, visit www.alice-naomi.com. The minimum entry is just 99p but there is also the option to enter more than once at a reduced price per entry. The closing date is 20 November 2014.

The horse-bit loafer, which celebrated its 60th anniversary last year, reigns supreme in Gucci’s pre-fall collection this year, arriving in burnt orange or black leather. Frida Giannini didn’t just look to the past to create her latest collection, however, having introduced a new shoe style this season; a towering square-toe leather bootie with a chunky heel. Clean and laid-back with a masculine undertone, the accessories perfectly complement Giannini’s Gucci Essentials line comprising bare and minimal pieces, controlled volume and sleek silhouettes. Along with the classic loafer, the creative director has also revived the house’s embossed Diamanté pattern onto the new range of handbags. (gucci.com)

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us st luxurio o m ’s d rl k factory g the wo ermès sil to makin H in e s e th o g to t travels Just wha lakeman B e ll E ? s scarve find out in Lyon to

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opening spread: Top row, from left: Hermès, La soie savoirfaire images: by Kai JÜNEMANN; Genèse du carré SOUS L’EGIDE DE MARS Impression,

by Tadzio. Bottom row: clockwise from top left: Festival des métiers à Munich, 2012

by Sandra STEH. all others: La soie savoirfaire, by Kai JÜNEMANN.

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N

ever underestimate simple. The clean lines of a sharply tailored suit are simple. The thread that is perfectly dyed to match your carry-anywhere tote is simple. The diamond on an engagement ring is simple; in fashion, as in life, simple can make all the difference.

On the face of it, a 90x90cm piece of silk is clothing in its most simple form. Hermès, who have been producing such pieces in what is arguably their most exquisite form imaginable, have built a global brand on this ‘simple’ piece that is actually anything but. Rather ambiguous in its raison d’etre, the Hermès scarf, or Carré, as the house prefers, is a chameleon of style: in the Fifties it was knotted under the chin, in the Sixties, the back of the head. In the Eighties the truly fashionable wore it wrapped around their waist, or attached it to their handbags – carefree and irreverent. Knowing what to do with one marked you out as cultured in style.

Last year, against a backdrop of recession and tightening belts, Hermès reported almost a 15 per cent increase against 2012 sales, while sales in China continued to grow in double-digit percentages, bucking the trend against other LVMH brands such as Gucci and Lanvin. The brand continues to evolve, having just launched an app and is refurbishing its Bond Street store, which will reopen later this year.

Artistic director Pierre-Alexis Dumas attributes this to the fact that the Hermès brand is firmly rooted in detail and craftsmanship.

‘We belong neither to the world of luxury nor to the world of fashion,’ he told Business of Fashion earlier this year. ‘This is a family house that goes back six generations. We did not invent our craft, we are the recipient of an age-old tradition, mixed with something which is perhaps proper to my family – a desire for excellence – and maybe something a little bit obsessive and mad about detail.’

It is this tradition and detail that I have flown

to Lyon to see first-hand, being led around by the enduringly enthusiastic Kamel Hamadou, the communications manager for Holding Textile Hermès (HTH) for over 27 years.

‘Many places make silk,’ he says, ‘but real silk comes from Lyon.’ A proud Lyon-born man, Kamel bounces around with energy, telling us how he almost went to work for Kodak but when he found out he had landed a job with Hermès, even Kodak tore up the contract.

Of course Hermès did not bring silk to Lyon,

‘Apparently HM The Queen is one of the biggest collectors of Hermès scarves’ rather the other way around, although today the brand and city are synonymous with their collective wares. Importantly though, it is ‘not Paris’. ‘There is knowledge here in Lyon,’ says Kamel. ‘Skill, history – this is what it takes.’

The first scarf was produced in 1937: Jeu des Omnibus et Dames Blanches – a fun illustration of the inauguration of the Parisian public omnibus line from Madeleine to Bastille. Each scarf is designed by a single engraver from an original print, with an average of 27 colours (but up to 46 at the most – a much bigger job for the silk screening).

This process is laborious and takes an average of 2,000 hours – almost a year – to complete. Once a print has been decided upon, say the Native American Pani la Shar Pawnee, or the jungle print Au Coeur de la Vie of S/S14, it will be sent to one of Hermès’ engravers to find the colours.

‘No sex, no politics and no religion,’ says Kamel on the choosing

below: scarves by STUDIO DES FLEURS

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of the prints. Other than that anything goes.

In the archive, there is a room with swathes of old designs – each with numerous colours, patterns and ideas splashed across them.

Apparently HM The Queen is one of the biggest collectors of Hermès scarves. ‘I would do a special order for her,’ says Kamel reverently.

Today, it is the jungle print that has fallen to Nadine Rabilloud to recreate; 20 years with Hermès, she is a calm, measured worker. With a steady hand, she slowly recreates the original design, giving utmost respect to the original artist: ‘You must not betray the spirit of the design,’ she says. In her 20 years, Nadine has completed just 40 scarves – a quick process it is not.

Once the engraver is happy with the colours, the next stage is to make the screens. Downstairs, away from the quiet drawing and sketching, is a factory where huge steel frames hold each 90x90cm design. As the colours are added one by one at the silk printing stage, there is one frame for every colour, which is then printed by layers, like a jigsaw slowly coming together.

At this stage, every defect would be reproduced on the scarves, so the focus is intense to ensure absolute perfection. There is someone employed at every stage to check for stray specks of dust or the slightest of scratches – each of which would render a Hermès scarf unsellable. ‘The customer must know that he can trust a Hermès product,’ says Kamel. ‘He should not need to check it at all, if it is on an Hermès shop floor, then it is perfect.’

The colours are chosen by a dedicated committee in Paris based on a seasonal palette, and each scarf is recreated in 14 different colourways, which will be taken down to ten – the jungle goes from lush greens to inky blues and bold Schiaparelli pinks. Surrounded by each of them, it’s hard to pick a favourite – no wonder they need a committee. It can take weeks to decide upon the colours; this truly is a place for people who think in terms of jade, teal, pistachio

and emerald, rather than merely green. The paint is added a layer at a time, each swipe of colour being monitored closely by a skilled technician. A single roll of silk stretches over a 160-metre-long table as the scarves slowly come to life. They are pegged above the machine, drying on what must be the world’s most glamorous washing line – £45,000 of billowing silk.

Once dry, they are spun through yet more processes, adding a protective layer to ensure the colours stay bright. In charge of cutting is Wilfred, the only man on a floor full of women (‘courageous’ jokes Kamel). He cuts with innate skill, barely looking at his hands, bottom to top – zip, bottom to top – zip, before suddenly flinging a scarf to the floor behind him – a defect! I can’t see it, but it’s there apparently: the flaw that marks this piece as ‘not Hermès’. It is destined either for sewing practice for the seamstress school next door or a petit h recycling collection.

Next door is a haven of quiet where trained women sit in comfortable silence, hand-sewing the rolled hem that the Carrés are known for – it must be 15mm exactly, and is sewn with a single piece of silk thread – dyed to match the scarf. The focus is palpable but not tense. The women happily chat us through what they are doing, showing how they roll the scarf just so.

‘Hermès objects are desirable because they reconnect people to their humanity,’ says Dumas.

‘Our customer feels the presence of the person who crafted the object, while at the same time the object brings him back to his own sensitivity, because it gives him pleasure through his senses.’

Amazingly, there is yet another quality-control station that the pieces must go through before being finally ready for sale; yet more virtually finished pieces that will never see the inside of those orange boxes. A little bit obsessive?

Mad about detail? Perhaps, but it’s definitely not simple. (hermes.com)

above, from left: Genèse du carré SOUS L’EGIDE DE MARS Impression by Tadzio.

Fabrication de la soie - Ateliers AS and La soie, both by Vincent LEROUX; La soie savoir-faire, both by Kai JÜNEMANN.

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BACK PAIN? SPORTS INJURY? SKIN TIGHTENING? STRESS? INSOMNIA? CELLULITE? ANTI-AGING?

WBC IS THE ANSWER

The Mozhgan Taheri Clinic has NOW introduced WBC WHAT IS WBC? Whole Body Cryotherapy (WBC) is the exposure of the entire body to extreme cold to stimulate the body’s natural response to inflammation, pain, spasms and promote healing.

Proven to improve joint and muscular function from sporting injuries and accelerate recovery WBC can also be used to treat chronic arthritic diseases and skin conditions.

For many, though, it is an answer to the everyday stresses and strains, stimulating endorphin production, easing tension and promoting sleep. On a beauty level it can reduce cellulite (lifting and lightening legs), increase collagen production and accelerate metabolism for weight management burning up to 800 calories.

Mozhgan Taheri Clinic, 3a Alma Lane, Wilmslow, SK9 5ND

01625 402080

www.mozhgantaheri.com

The CryoSauna is used by professional athletes at the highest levels of the NBA, the NFL and the Premiere League.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

Freedom

of Expression

M

arni’s pre-fall collection reveals flashes of colour and exuberance, reined in by architecturally precise silhouettes and firm fabrics. Drawing on the Art Brut and Outsider art spheres, Marni looked to a world unbounded by the art market, institutions or formal conventions. Its representatives, usually self-taught and often marginalised, practice raw, artistic expression, a perfect match for the adventurous spirit of this collection. Christophe Joubert and Francois-Xavier Tavy-Sacley from France and Stefano Favaro from Italy were the chosen artists. Each has their own unique stamp, but the vibrancy of their prints, replicated across fabrics and leather goods including iPad cases and shoppers, unites them. (marni.com)

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Melodie Chromatique silk scarf, £310, Hermès (hermes.com). Asia swimsuit, £186, Melissa Odabash (odabash.com). Trio earrings of white diamond pavés in 18k yellow gold, £POA, Shamballa Jewels (shamballajewels.com). Canary yellow necklace (used as bracelet), £1,524, CARAT* London (caratlondon.com).

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Make a

splash

Classic pieces with a vintage feel and contemporary twists, this summer’s swimwear is taking poolside glamour to a whole new level p h o t o g r a p h y: p h i l l i p w at e r m a n s t y l i s t: j e s s s t e b b i n g s

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This page: One-piece swimsuit, £78, Calvin Klein Swimwear (calvinklein.com). Print jacket, £760, Holly Fulton (hollyfulton.com). Custardcream clutch, £995, Anya Hindmarch (anyahindmarch.com). Iriza shoes, £425, Christian Louboutin (christianlouboutin.com). Canary yellow necklace, £1,524, and Radiant-cut ring, £282, both CARAT* London, as before.

Opposite: Pleated one-piece, £190, Heidi Klein (heidiklein.com). Gwynitta patent sandals, £495, Christian Louboutin (christianlouboutin.com). Canary yellow necklace, £1,524, and Radiant-cut ring, £282, both CARAT* London, as before.

Watch, £1,522, Freywille (freywille.com).

Sunglasses, £310, Cutler and Gross (cutlerandgross.com).

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Capri pants, £325, JC de Castelbajac (jc-de-castelbajac.com). Jemima hat, £110, Melissa Odabash (odabash.com). Moscow glasses, £255, Prism (prismlondon.com). Twist bandeau top, £95, Heidi Klein, as before. Coral bracelet, £885, Freywille, as before.

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Opposite: English lace shirt, £495, and English lace cotton knickers, £295, both Burberry Prorsum (burberry.com). Capri sunglasses, £255, Prism, as before. Earrings, Shamballa Jewels, as before. Pink bracelet, £758, and Coral watch, £1,841, both Freywille, as before. Flora gold clutch, £465, Wilbur and Gussie (wilburandgussie.com).

This page: Gem embellished lace skirt, £2,395, Burberry Prorsum, as before. Salinas bikini top, £132, Prism, as before. Sunglasses, £310, Cutler and Gross, as before. Watch, £1,522, Freywille, as before. Iriza shoes, Christian Louboutin, as before. Peach coral earrings, £95, Kirsten Goss London (kirstengoss.com).

MAKE-UP: Charlotte Cowen HAIR: Elliot Bssila @ Terri Manduca for Errol Douglas Salon MODEL: Fruszina @ Models 1 ASSISTANT: Kiran Mane Thank you to Ealing Village Pool 79

Swimwear

style

As we near our summer holidays and the beach or pool beckons, often the last thing on the list is the swimsuit (and typically it is one of the hardest things to get right). We speak to swimwear experts Heidi Klein for some helpful hints and tips on finding the perfect swimwear to suit every shape

Petit

e

ngle Inverted tria

Squa

hap re s

e

Petite

Inverted Triangle

Square Shape

For the proportionately perfect petite body most styles will work well for you.

But for petite silhouettes with minimal curves, the goal is to create the illusion of extra shape. Tie-side bottoms with intricate detail at the hips complement a petite figure without adding bulk. Skimpier cuts, triangle shapes and bandeau styles for instance, all complement a petite body.

Padded tops and frill or bow details help draw attention to the bust.

Sete Ring Rope Triangle Padded Top and Ring Rope Tie Side Bottom, £190

For the inverted triangle body shape the aim is to balance out the shoulders by drawing the eye towards the lower part of the body. Look for hidden support, like underwired bars to give lift and padded cups to provide a perfect shape. Halter straps are good because they create the illusion of smaller shoulders. Go for bottoms that have some tie-side detail with a classic fitting bottom to accentuate the bottom half.

Abaco Beach Eyelet Halter Bandeau Top & Eyelet French Knickers, £190

For those with a square shape silhouette, go for an elegant tie side bottom or one with subtle embellishment. This will draw attention and will give the illusion of curves. For your bust go for a delicate bandeau with middle ties, or a bright print to liven up your silhouette. The Jaipur is also reversible to add to your beachwear wardrobe without filling your suitcase uneccesarily.

Istanbul Bandeau Top and Hipster Bottom, £180 & Jaipur Padded Triangle Top and Tie Side Bottom, £170

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H

eidi Klein was launched in 2002 by Heidi Gossman and Penny Klein after recognising the frustration of trying to put together a great holiday wardrobe. ‘Pre holiday shopping was really not fun and it should be the complete opposite.’

‘This summer we are seeing more control one-pieces because they elongate the female silhouette and flatter most body shapes. The bandeau bikini and triangle styles are still very

Apple

shape

popular especially in bold colours of yellow, hot pink and bright orange. The nautical style is always a go-to classic each summer and remains so this year.

‘Couple your swimwear with white oversized shirts and a classic oversize beach bag and you’ll be bang on trend this summer, simple stylish and easy to wear with anything.’

Heidi Klein is available from Harvey Nichols, Cathedral St. (harveynichols.com)

Pear shape

Hou

lho ss si r-gla

uette

Apple Shape

Pear Shape

Hour-glass

For an apple shape that carries the weight on top, the aim is to create the illusion of a waistline and a flattering slimming silhouette. A control one-piece is ideal for this as it provides additional support all over, especially in the middle. Go for one with a classic bottom that fits the crease line perfectly. A halter top with side-boning will provide support to a larger bust area.

Persia D-F Ring Control One Piece (Powermesh fabric inside gives support, D-G halter ring top for larger bust sizes)

Those with a pear shape should try to draw the attention to the bust area.

To achieve this, go for padded cups or subtle details on the top to create cleavage and draw the eye upward. Classic fitting bottoms that fit to the crease of the bottom are more flattering for this shape. Remember, a well-fitting chic one-piece with detail at the bust is ideal as it will substantially elongate the silhouette.

Cap D’Ail Bandeau Scallop One Piece Sete Balcony Top and Fold Over Bottom, £190

If you have a silhouette with even proportions, then select a top with hidden support and low cut bottoms to emphasise a small waistline. Bandeau bikinis are great for emphasising the curves of a modest bust, while a halter neck is better to give support to a larger bust. Padded cups offer an extra boost as well as support.

Low, hipster bottoms show off a flat belly and additional detail at the side draws attention to the hip, emphasising curves.

Cap D’Ail Padded Bandeau Top and Hipster Bottom, £180 81

Super woman Most 49-year old women dread their next birthday like the plague but for Elle Macpherson, it is just another day. And when you look as good as she does, it’s hardly surprising. To mark this milestone, the model turned businesswoman has demonstrated once again why she was given the nickname The Body with the launch of her first beauty product, The Super Elixir

by WelleCo. Branded as the next generation in alkalising food supplements, it has taken several years to formulate by Dr. Simone Laubscher, Macpherson’s own Harley Street doctor who specialises in disease prevention, and is designed to support 11 systems in the body, including digestion, nervous and circulatory with its super green formula (containing 45 key ingredients such as Chinese herbs and digestive enzymes). While we cannot promise that you’ll look like Ms. Macpherson simply by drinking it every day, it’s at least a step in the right direction.

The Super Elixir by WelleCo, £98 for 300g Exclusively available at Selfridges (welleco.com)

Beauty news

We have all the tips and tricks to make sure you are bronzed, bright-eyed and beautiful inside and out this summer season words: gemma knight & louisa castle

Summer shimmer The linchpin of Givenchy’s Croisière summer offering is the Poudre Terre Exotique – a bronzer that seems to suit everyone, encased in a glossy black compact and sculpted into a frankly adorable three-dimensional design which seems almost a shame to spoil with use. Armed with a big brush, complexions become instantly sun-kissed (a look which undeniably makes everyone look fabulous), and the tint is neither too matt nor too shimmery (often a tough balance to find) with cool undertones for a real ‘lit-fromwithin’ look.

Available at Harvey Nichols (givenchy.com)

That riviera glow There’s a luxurious way to self-tan and it comes courtesy of uber popular brand, St Tropez. Its Self Tan Luxe Dry Oil made its way quietly to counters in March, inspired by the Brazilian approach to bronzing and buffing. While the oil is easily absorbed and nourishing, the tanning agent is 100 per cent natural – as is its neroli, lemongrass and grapefruit fragrance. Once applied (ideally with a mitt), skin is left with a subtle, shimmering guide colour which washes off to reveal a golden glow. (st-tropez.com) 82

Truly scandalous We’ve only recently discovered the Rimmel Scandaleyes mascara (yes yes, where have we been? Etc, etc), but now we’re finding it rather hard to live without. The price tag, a mere £7 from your local chemist, had us slightly sceptical, but the results were hard to disagree with. It’s touted as the mega-brush (and it really is mega) with a triple collagen and keratin formula that gives you twelve times the lash-volume – we’ve no idea whether that’s true, but our eyelashes did look fairly incredible – long, luscious and full, with no clumps and no annoying residue. Suffice to say, our falsies will be out of action for a while. (rimmellondon.com)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Beauty

Treatment of the month

Ace of grace If you’ve ever bought the perfect LBD, only to be let down in full Bridget Jones-style by your lingerie underneath, then Grace & Wilde may have a pair of non-granny pants with your name on.

Designed by – and for – women who will settle for nothing but the smoothest silhouette, the flattering, body-sculpting dresses and bodices can be worn as underwear or outerwear, while the control panelling around the stomach is always hidden to ensure any unseemly seams are concealed. The first Classics collection includes a slip, a dress, a boned bustier, a front-hook waist cincher, a body, and highwaist mid-thigh pants available in five colourways; Black is a Girl’s Best Friend, Blush at First Sight, Hot in Chocolate, Lady in Red, and Midnight Blue Rendezvous. All we need now is a Mark Darcy. (graceandwilde.com)

Elemis Top to Toe

As the holiday season continues, we’ve found the perfect way to de-stress before even stepping on the plane with this treatment from Elemis It is an all-over body experience which begins with a soothing foot treatment, exfoliation and moisturisation. Your feet are then wrapped in rose water bathed hot towels whilst the focus is moved to your back.

Next is a deep tissue massage to relieve aching muscles and the daily build up of stresses and strains. Panic not, you can choose the strength of your massage. I went for the firm option and made sure that my shoulders were completely free from knots. I think I may regret that tomorrow but in the long run...

Now is time for the facial, all the while cocooned in fluffy towels.

The Power Booster Anti-Ageing facial includes a deep cleanse and moisturising tailored to your skin. There’s also a hydrating mask to make sure your skin is ready for the beach. As your mask sets (it is one which is peeled off) you are also treated to a head massage.

90 minutes later you are ready to leave the warmth of your treatment room (there’s plenty of space for you and the therapist to comfortably move around) and if you aren’t ready for the real world just yet, head to the indulgent Relaxation Room and snuggle under a duvet for a while.

We also indulged in one of the Spa’s bento lunch boxes (£15) before heading off to the changing rooms and back to the last minute holiday to-do list. £80 at MacDonald Portal Spa, Tarporley CW6 0DJ (0844 879 9082)

EXPERT TIP ‘For beautiful bright eyes this summer, Crème de la Mer’s Eye Concentrate is a must.

Formulated with hematite, this deeply conditioning eye balm is my go to product to tackle darkness and lines.’

Armand Beasley, resident beauty expert.

The Beauty Project, Selfridges (£130, 15ml, selfridges.com)

Copacabana This summer sees Guerlain once again introducing a new Aqua Allegoria perfume to its Eaux Fraiches range.

Limon Verde, as you would expect from the name, is a fresh and fruity scent which takes as its inspiration the lively exuberance of a Brazilian festival (no doubt to mark this year’s World Cup).

The scent, created by master perfumer Thierry Wasser, includes notes of cachaca, cane sugar and lime; the quintessential raw materials of the Latin American continent.

Aqua Allegoria Limon Verde, £58 for 125ml Exclusive to John Lewis (johnlewis.com) 83

BACK TO

BASICS

Renowned for its stripped back attitude to skincare, EVE LOM has products in every beauty editor’s top ten. Louisa Castle speaks with Amandine Isnard, Head of Product Development at EVE LOM and the lady, ultimately responsible for the products we lust after

E

maintain this in all the EVE LOM products VE LOM’s collection is all and services today. about simplicity. Even the Amandine has always been interested in new make-up range is true beauty, ‘growing up in Paris, my mother had to Eve Lom herself’s back to a typically French attitude to her beauty basics approach. Take the iconic regime and took great care of her skin, Cleanser which replaces toner, always using beautiful and natural products, exfoliator and make-up remover.

Daily taking time to pamper herself,’ she recalls.

The company may not be solely Protection +SPF50, £70 So the EVE LOM way of life is a natural one in founder (although Eve Lom still for Amandine. retains a certain degree of With such a reputation though, winners of control), the philosophy remains the shelves full of accolades, her role must be a same; luxury, multi-tasking, skintough one, always looking to create the next centric. And it is Amandine’s role to

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Rescue Mask, £55 for 100ml Radiance Perfected Tinted Moisturiser, £48

No.1 product?

‘Of course! At EVE LOM we are always striving to create products that achieve the best skin. Beautiful skin is the foundation of beauty so it’s important that every item we create fulfils this objective. We are hugely proud of our awards and accolades and challenge ourselves every day to deliver the highest quality ingredients and formulations, as well as subjecting each product to complex clinical trials to ensure that it works.’

The EVE LOM range appears to have synergies with today’s woman; a capsule collection for women on the go. ‘We believe that skincare should be targeted, indulgent and proven. Every

‘At EVE LOM we are always striving to create products that achieve the best skin’ product we create serves its own purpose, each is a pleasure to use and feels like a daily treat and lastly every product achieves results.’

Earlier this year EVE LOM launched a new range of colour cosmetics, a bold move in a hugely competitive market. ‘These products are advanced skincare to which we added colour.’

The concept is that this range helps improve the skin through a natural ingredient, BerryFlux Vita, which helps rejuvenate and hydrate the skin.

‘Customer demand was the ultimate reason we decided to expand into colour. But it was important for us to create a complexion range

that had skincare benefits, so that while we were enhancing our customer’s natural beauty, active ingredients were also working to improve the condition of their skin. Our complexion range took three years to develop and through vigorous tests over this time we launched eight colour products and three brushes to create radiant, flawless skin.’

So what’s next for the brand? ‘We have just launched our new Daily Protection + SPF 50, a new generation in daily moisturising sunscreen that provides broad spectrum protection from UVA and UVB rays as well as protecting from pollutants. UV rays are present every day and are the number one cause of skin ageing. It’s so important for all of us no matter what skin type or skin tone to protect our skin every single day in order to preserve our beauty all year long.’

Amandine is in the lucky position to be in charge of all the products at EVE LOM and their secret formulas but which are her favourites? ‘It’s so hard to choose favourites as all of our products serve a purpose. But if I had to choose I would say the new Daily Protection + SPF 50.’

‘I’m also never without our Cleanser - there’s a reason it’s remained unchanged for 25 years and never been matched. I also love serums and our Intense Hydration Serum is a favourite, with 90% hyaluronic acid it literally transforms your skin. I use it daily, as a mask and even around my eyes to keep my skin hydrated.’

Finally, I ask for Amandine’s top tips for the perfect complexion. ‘Cleansing is a must. Even if you don’t wear make-up it’s so important to take the time to remove the daily grime from your skin.

‘Protection, as mentioned above, UV rays are the number one cause of ageing and are present every day so we all must use protection daily. The importance of sleep, diet and exercise are also fundamental to our skin. Drinking water, eating a wide variety of natural foods, especially veggies and fresh air are all important as is being mindful and happy. However, happiness really does give you the ultimate glow.’

EVE LOM products and treatments are available from Harvey Nichols, Manchester.

Cleanser, £40 for 50ml

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Fashion

P

UMA has again teamed up with Alexander McQueen, and their latest collaboration celebrates the iconic PUMA King football boot and the game itself. Created for the legendary EusÊbio in 1968, the PUMA King has been highly regarded throughout the brand’s history for its performance and innovative contribution to football. This season, the Alexander McQueen brand leaves its own mark on the icon and uses its craftsmanship and attention to detail to unite tradition and technology.

As part of the collaboration, not one but two stunning limited-edition iterations have been handcrafted using the very highest quality materials. To mark this occasion, both brands have commissioned a short film, shot in Italy, illustrating the production process while capturing the very essence of this artisanal project. (puma.com)

THE KING AND QUEEN

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The

charming golfer

As The Open looms closer on the calendar, Louisa Castle speaks to Ian Poulter about the Royal Liverpool course and style in golf

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

IMAGE: IAN POULTER (PHOTO: photogolfer / Shutterstock.com)

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ABOVE: IAN POULTER (PHOTO: Jim Hunter)

I

an Poulter is known almost as much for his sense of style as his golfing prowess. His mantra is to “look good, play great” so it seems only fitting the first thing we discuss is golfing style.

Long gone are those ‘XXL t-shirts and sloppy polos rather than a shirt that fits. Golf has become more fashionable, appealing to younger people, evolving so more people can get out and enjoy it,’ remarks Ian. His company IJP Design has a lot to do with that. What began as an idea sketched on hotel notepaper in 2003 is now a multi-national business, distributing in over 15 countries. The company was born from Ian being unable to find the golf clothes he wanted to wear on the course and which performed to the standards required by a Professional tour golfer. It is far from the Union Jack trousers which Ian is famous for.

‘I don’t want to get to 50 and wonder what to do next, and I’ve always admired golfers who have looked beyond the sport alone to do something in

#1 Birdie V Golf Jumper, £59.95

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the business of golf.

‘But there is also a recognition among professional sportspeople in general that their increased visibility makes them brands now. Sportspeople are businesses, in part because they have leverage to their names to have something in place for when they can’t play anymore.’

Few other golfers have successfully pulled off launching a clothing line, Greg Norman is the only one I can think of. ‘If going my own way doesn’t work, at least I’ve given it a try, and at least I’ve got to wear what I like. It is a risk though and requires huge investment but the trend is in a growing crossover of golf and fashion and that can only continue. More players want to look good on the course and keep looking good in the clubhouse.’

Whilst Ian feeds back on the look of the collections, if the trousers don’t sit right when he is lining up for a shot or his shirts are too

‘You’re only as good as your next round of golf so look forwards’ – Ian Poulter short he feeds these details back to the design team too. His job is playing championship golf.

‘My job is still to try and hole some putts and if I can give some design ideas on the side, that’s great. For the moment though, my working life has a very simple dynamic. It’s called performance related pay. This isn’t football, if I don’t play well, I don’t get paid.’

Seems like the perfect time to ask some questions about his season.

As Ian answers my questions he is preparing for the US Open Championships at Pinehurst, one of the toughest courses.

‘My main aim this season is obviously to win a

#2 Albatross Golf Shirt, £64.95

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Feature

THE NINETEENTH HOLE tournament. My current form isn’t quite as I would like it and we’re continuing to work really hard to turn it around and make it a fantastic 2014. There’s still two majors left, then the FedEx Cup and the Ryder Cup and European series at the back end of the season, so I’m looking forward to a busy few months and finishing the year strong.’

‘I’m very much looking forward to Hoylake, a fantastic Championship venue, I remember it well from last time. I played very well, firm and fast and will be looking to repeat that performance. It’s going to be tough but should be a good test of every aspect of the game. You have to know how to shape the golf ball. You have to know how to position it, certainly round that golf course, if it plays like it did last time, firm and fast, then precision is the winner.

‘Then I’m looking forward to Gleneagles and hopefully a successful Ryder Cup on a great course. For me it’s the pinnacle, so I look forward to making the team and becoming a strong player for Europe.’

Returning to Hoylake, Ian shares some tips for playing the course for those budding amateurs out there. ‘Hit it smoother. Hit it with slightly less power. Control the ball flight. Grip further down the club. Move the ball position slightly back.

Don’t be afraid to hit lots of chip and run shots.’

And how about for those rounds that just don’t pull together? ‘You’re only as good as your next round of golf so look forwards. Stay positive and keep the feelings of the good stuff and go out and deliver on that. If you have a bad day let it go, just keep pressing #3 Tartan forwards.’

Golf Shorts, (ijpdesign.com; £59.95 ianpoulter.com)

Advice on perfecting your game from the professionals who advise the professionals THE PERFECT CHIP Michael Welch, Coach Lee Westwood Golf School Most golfers understand that to be a good chipper of the ball, they must create a downward strike for solid contact. Unfortunately, they try to achieve this by playing the ball way back in their stance and pushing the hands way forward.

This creates two problems; first the loft on the club has been decreased causing trajectory issues and second, trying to keep the hands ahead often causes the left arm to pull the butt end of the club away from the centre of the body causing a lot of miss hits.

The best chippers create the downward strike by correctly positioning the sternum in relation to the ball at address and employing a small pivot toward the target as they swing through to keep the arms and body moving in sync.

To get the address position correct, play the ball in the middle of your stance and position your sternum, at least on top of the ball or even slightly ahead by moving the whole of your body towards the target as opposed to just your hands. This is made easier by taking a fairly narrow stance, as a wide stance can encourage your upper body to lean away from the hole.

Swivel the shaft up through your hands until the butt end of the club rests just to the left of your belly button. Maintain this connection with your midsection as you swing back and the triangle formed between your shoulders and arms will stay intact.

The butt end should stay touching the body as you turn through the shot and you’ll notice how the club face remains perfectly square with manipulation.

Rehearse this drill a few times in-between hitting basic chip shots and you will develop the synchronisation and body pivot you need to improve your chipping.

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Electric fantastic!

Making a quiet entrance on September 13, this year Formula E starts its season in China. The inaugural season will be contested over 10 rounds, team and drivers receive nine official test days, five pre-season, two in-season and two post-season. Alejandro Agaga the CEO of Formula E says ‘We expect this Championship to become the framework for research and development around the electric car, a key element for the future of our cities’ and in many way it represents a vision for the future of the motor industry over the coming decades, serving as a framework for R&D around the electric vehicle, accelerating interest in these cars and promoting sustainability. Not only is the internet a-buzz with the technology behind it, the driver line up is also quite impressive, with Jarno Trulli, Nick Heidfeld, Bruno Senna and the very first female driver in Formula E, Katherine Legge.

We are all hoping that this Formula does take off as it will be a very important step to a sustainable future and we just know they are going to sound better than the F1 cars.

Motoring news The latest on Formula E, the new Nissan concept car, the world premier of the Mercedes AMG GT and one heck of a motor movie W o r d s b y I ain wa r d e

I have about 40 cars, of which 25 to 30 are what you might call serious – Nick Mason

Bloodhound high speed record The cockpit of the bloodhound SSC, the 1,000mph land speed racing car, was unveiled in Bristol, last month. The state-of-the-art carbon fibre monocoque has been tailored to the needs of driver Andy Green who calls it his ‘1,000mph office’.

Hand crafted using five different types of carbon fibre weave and two different resins, the monocoque has taken more than 10,000 hours to design and make. The structure weighs 200kg and bolts to the metallic rear chassis carrying the jet, rocket and racing car engine. The plan is to take it to South Africa in autumn 2015 and raise the current record of 763mph, then return in 2016 to go beyond 1,000mph. (bloodhoundssc.com) 92

The cheshire Magazine | Motoring

Nissan Concept 2020 Nissan has released the first official pictures of its virtual concept car, Concept 2020 Vision Gran Turismo. The Japanese manufacturer says it’s a ‘vision of what a high performance Nissan could look like in the future’ and ‘the next story to an audience that has always shared our passion for performance’. The new GT-R anyone? Nissan is remaining tight-lipped on that, simply saying that the designers in London were given free rein to go wild with some engineering input from Japan, and ‘the real world is ready’ for such a concept. The car will be available for download from next month, along with the rest of the fully driveable concepts in the virtual garage. (gran-turismo.com)

Mercedes AMG GT A new AMG high-performance automobile is all set for its world premiere in the autumn of 2014. The power unit is a small twin-turbocharged four-valve-per-cylinder 4.0-litre V8 petrol engine that produces 503bhp at 6,250rpm and 479 lb-ft of torque between 1,750 and 4,750rpm. This is a direct replacement for the naturally aspirated 6.2-litre V8.

Sources say that we’re expecting to see the AMG GT launched late in 2014 but it will be pitched at a much lower price point than the SLS AMG at around £120,000. (mercedes-amg.com)

Road Having been to the Isle of Man TT for the past two years I can safely say that motorcycle road racing is the most adrenaline pumping motor sport on earth. A sport in which men compete at speeds of up to 200mph on closed country roads and one that has claimed many lives over the years. Narrated by Liam Neeson, this film tells the extraordinary and dramatic story of two sets of brothers from Northern Ireland who have dominated road racing for over thirty years; Robert and Joey Dunlop, and Robert’s sons, William and Michael. Road does what the film Senna did for Formula 1, capturing the sport’s thrills and spills, comebacks and tragedies. If you love speed, racing or bikes then it is a must-see, a true masterpiece of the screen. (roadthefilm.com)

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McLaren P1 The McLaren F1 was the fastest production road car ever made and nobody would have predicted, even five years ago, that its modern day successor would be a hybrid. With McLaren’s racing history, it’s unsurprising the P1 is constructed like a F1 car, with a carbon fibre exterior and (mostly) carbon fibre interior. The car is powered by a 3.8-litre twin-turbo V8 petrol engine, mounted midship, which produces 727bhp. This is supplemented by a 176bhp low-weight electric motor such that the combined output is 903bhp. The P1 has a steering-wheel mounted rocket boost button with the official name Instant Power Assist System (IPAS). Press this and all the electric motor’s energy will shove alongside that of the engine’s, ensuring the P1 can reach 62mph from standstill in less than 3.0 seconds.

Top speed is an eye-watering 217mph. CO2 emissions of 200g/km may not be very clean but this drops to 0g/km when driven in electric only mode, something the P1 can do for 10 miles or so. Pricing begins at £866,000 and only 375 will be made so don’t expect to see many of them around town.

Absurdly fast, yet lean and green – the eco supercar is with us W O R D S : M a t t h e w C ar t e r

Green zone T his year, there’s been a raft of hybrid sportscar introductions, which have both petrolheads and eco warriors – unusual bedfellows for sure – jabbering with delight. Surely this latest trend in supercar design is some kind of fantastical dream?

It’s not, even though the term ‘eco supercar’ ought to be an oxymoron. Most supercars are powered by thirsty V8 or V12 engines which drink fuel by the yard. Until now, sustainability has never been at the forefront of supercar development. Yet BMW, Ferrari, McLaren and Porsche have each introduced a hybrid supercar.

In actual fact, these cars are so super that the super prefix is no longer enough, instead hypercar is being used as the more appropriate moniker. Whichever, the message is quite clear: green cars can be exotically sexy too.

Each of these cars may be different in how its hybrid technology is deployed, but each is capable of delivering astonishing levels of performance yet still be low polluting and fuel-efficient. All but the Ferrari can be powered by emission-free, electric power only. This

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means you could quietly sneak out of the city in electric-only, clean as a whistle mode, before hitting warp speed once the countryside opens up for your motoring pleasure.

This combination of cleanliness, economy and ultra performance is no whimsy. Motor racing has been a test bed for hybrid technology for some time, as carmakers have raced to respond to increasing regulatory pressure to reduce greenhouse emissions.

Hybrid technology is not the most obvious choice for supercar deployment, as weight reduction is usually paramount. The lighter a car is, the quicker it can accelerate, stop and turn. Hybrid components – including motors, generators and batteries in particular – add weight. Even though these components may enhance power and improve fuel economy, the additional weight means the car needs more energy just to move itself.

Which is not a good place to start in supercar design. Yet the results are quite marvellous, from the rocket boost button of the McLaren to the the BMW’s supreme efficiency.

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

Porsche 918 Spyder Surely Porsche’s 918 Spyder can lay claim to being the most beautiful car here, but it may also be the most versatile. Its plug-in petrolelectric powertrain unites a 572hp 4.6-litre V8 engine with two electric motors. The first delivers a maximum of 114bhp to the front wheels. The other delivers 127bhp to the rear wheels. Together with that V8 engine, total output is 784hp. The official 0-62mph sprint time for this mid-engined targa in top-end Weissach spec is 2.6 seconds, though the car can do the same sprint using electric power only in 6.2 seconds. Top speed is 201mph. Porsche claims fuel consumption in the region of 94mpg and that its hybrid should be able to run in purely electric mode at speeds of up to 93mph for up to 15 miles. Emissions figures are similarly impressive with a tiny 70g/km of CO2.

How sustainable these cars are is contentious. In the real world it’s possible that the fuel economy of these cars could be very similar to existing powertrains, unless

they are plugged in and charged from the mains when a chance at such astonishing economy is possible. But then that shouldn’t be the question. The fact that these cars exist at all is the wonder. Their technology should trickle down to lesser vehicles over time. Which means they have the potential to change the automotive landscape for good. The new age of the supercar isn’t golden, it’s green. How long it lasts remains to be seen. 

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Motoring | The CHESHIRE Magazine

Ferrari LaFerrari It’s fair to say Ferrari took a quite different approach for its LaFerrari hybrid, the least ‘eco’ car on this list. Only 499 hybrid LaFerrari cars will be built at Maranello and they’ve all been sold. A successor to the legendary Enzo, Ferrari has used racetrack developed hybrid technology to augment the car’s performance rather than focus on sustainability. This is a car that uses its hybrid system like a turbo charger rather than as a method of reducing CO2 emissions (emissions are a significantly less green 330g/km). The LaFerrari is a ‘mild’ rather than a full hybrid and it doesn’t have a fully electric mode, though it does recapture excess energy under braking or whenever its V12 engine provides more torque than required. Instead, its hybrid system uses two motors. The first provides ancillary power and the other supplements 161bhp to the 789hp mid-mounted 6.3-litre V12. The petrol-electric powertrain thus delivers a whopping 950bhp to the rear wheels. The 0-62mph sprint can be despatched in less than 3.0 seconds and a maximum speed north of 220mph is possible. Price is in the region of £1m.

BMW i8 BMW’s i8 may be more than half the price (£99,845) of the more expensive offerings here, but it is a supercar none the less. The i8 has the potential to transform how future cars are built.

BMW went for a radical new way of building the car to ensure its lower weight offset the additional weight of its hybrid components. The car has a complex, multi-layered design constructed from carbon fibre reinforced plastic (CFRP) and aluminium and the powertrain components – including the batteries – sit in a capsule below the CFRP passenger cell. The resulting weight savings have been massive. Instead of a large, heavy V8 engine, the car is powered by a 231bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder engine, which is Lilliputian in supercar terms and unprecedented in history in terms of its deployment. This engine drives the

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‘Only 499 hybrid LaFerrari cars will be built at Maranello and they’ve all been sold’ rear wheels while a 131bhp electric motor drives the front. The result is an uber-efficient sports car, capable of accelerating from 0-62mph in 4.4 seconds and on to 155mph with combined fuel economy of 134.5mpg. The car can run on emission-free electricity for about 15 miles and emits just 49g of CO2. Most compact city cars pollute more than this and the i8 wins out on sustainability. Oh, and you can plug it into the mains to charge it.

SHOW

RUNWILD MEDIA GROUP

SPACE RACER

From the edge of space to the edge of adhesion, supersonic skydiver Felix Baumgartner is falling into sports cars and is taking on the scariest race track in the galaxy WORDS: Neil Briscoe

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The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

H

ow do you come back down? It’s a tricky question and one with no clear answer. Those closest to having a shared experience are probably astronauts and the track record there is a patchy one. Neil Armstrong, arguably the greatest of all, shunned the limelight when he returned from the Moon and entered a cloistered university life, refusing almost point blank to discuss his accomplishment. Buzz Aldrin found solace at the bottom of a bottle, before recovering and eventually appearing on The Simpsons. Ironically, one of his successors, Chris Hadfield, appears to have utterly become Ned Flanders.

Others have become painters or preachers or have just stuck quietly to engineering or PR roles within the astronaut corps. But for Felix Baumgartner, there is no corps. Only one other man has done as he has, stood on a tiny perch high above the world and just jumped… How do you follow that?

From 24 miles above the Earth, on the 14 of October 2012 Baumgartner stepped off his floating platform and fell, plummeting towards home, hitting a recorded speed of 843mph, or Mach 1.25.

Supersonic speed, no aeroplane needed. It was no coincidence that the date was 65 years to the day since Chuck Yeager became the first man to breach the sound barrier (with a plane, in fairness). Baumgartner wanted us all to know that he had the Right Stuff.

What then, though?

Well, obviously there was a massive round of public appearances, talk shows and autograph signing.

Red Bull had sponsored the jump and wanted its money’s worth in terms of publicity. Really

though, what then? How on Earth – or in space – do you follow the nigh-unbelievable thrill of jumping back to your home planet from the edge of the atmosphere?

Well, Baumgartner has chosen racing as his next trick, thereby adding racing driver to his boys’ hero checklist of skydiver and (almost) astronaut. You get the suspicion that he’s just doing it to try and revive sales of Action Man, but in fact it’s a mixture of a personal need for a challenge and wanting to inspire the next generation. ‘I was always like that, when I was a little kid, I always looked up to the guys who did something that no-one had ever done before.

Like Neil Armstrong – he landed on the moon

‘The difference between the Stratos jump and racing is not so big’ and he was my childhood hero. And I was always someone who’d think that if other people say it’s not possible, is that because it is not possible or because we think it’s not possible. There’s a lot of people out there who have showed us the difference there.’

‘It’s not my main priority but if it inspires a younger generation then I’m happy, because I think they need people to look up to, it doesn’t matter if it’s a race car driver or your parents, as long as you look up to somebody, and if you pick an accomplishment and follow it through then I think that’s good. It’s important to have role models. It’s good to be there, to be one. I was always looking for challenges, like Red Bull Stratos; no one thought a human could break the speed of sound but we did it. And race car driving – people say that with no racing background and no experience you cannot compete in the Nürburgring 24hrs. But if you have a very good programme, and a team like Audi who comes up with the perfect game plan, then everything can work…’

Audi has been a dominant force in motor 

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racing for more than a decade now, notching up a dozen wins at the famed Le Mans 24hrs and numerous other victories around the globe.

For Felix though, it’s come up with a special brand of hell; the Green Hell as Jackie Stewart called it – the Nürburgring.

In June, as every year, 200 cars took to the most infamous track in racing to compete wheel-to-wheel, bumper-to-bumper, for a full day and night. It is one of the toughest events in motorsport, and even with his meticulously prepared Audi R8 LMS Ultra GT3 racer, Felix is really jumping off the deep end. ‘Audi approached me last year with the idea of

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competing in the 24hrs of Nürburgring, and I was easily attracted from the first second, but my first request was that we had to practice and practice and practice. Every situation, every possible chance to practice, I have to take, because I’m not a race car driver, and much of the Nürburgring is very dangerous and this is a very fast and difficult car. So we both agreed on working together in that way and Sepp Haider (Audi’s own in-house racing trainer and a former rally champion) took me to the race track at the Lausitzring, and I had the chance to practice there for two days. And then we went to the Nürburgring and for two days I was sitting

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Motoring

between skydiving and race car driving because it requires a lot of discipline and mental focus, and I’m used to that, that’s the reason why it works for me. It is the same buzz, the same excitement. I’ve always liked a challenge and if you’re out there on a race track with 200 other cars, and everyone wants to win, everyone wants to be in front, and you know you’ve got cars coming from behind, cars in front of you, and

‘I like the speed and I like the challenge. You get both in a race car’ – Felix Baumgartner

next to Sepp in the car and he showed me everything. And we slowly built up the progress.’

‘The difference between the Stratos jump and racing is not so big, because if you want to accomplish something you have to have confidence in your skills, confidence in your team and in your equipment. I had that when I was doing Red Bull Stratos. We had to develop the skills and the equipment, and in racing you have to build the team and the car, the technique has to be up to date and as a race car driver you have to be physically fit and able to do your job. So there are a lot of similarities,

you have to be anticipating, worrying are you going to hit another car, but it is big fun – I like the speed and I like the challenge. You get both in a race car.’

The Nürburgring 24hrs is essentially a one-off event, unique in the GT racing world, but for Felix it may just be the start of a whole new career. He’s impressed both Audi and his hugely experienced team-mates, Frank Biela, Marco Werner and Pierre Kaffer and it’s not out of the question that bigger, more prestigious races could beckon.

‘If they would give me the chance I would sure love to do Le Mans, I would sign up for that. Le Mans is a very different thing, it’s not as tricky a circuit as the Nürburgring but it’s much faster, the average speed is around 260km/h, so it takes focus and discipline again, but it’s the same as with the Nürburgring, if you work on something with the right people and you’re part of the right team then anything is possible.’

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gOING FOR GOLD In honour of the Tour de France we have found our own ‘yellow jersey’ in the form of this 24k gold Extreme Mountain Bike

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he most expensive bike in the world is brought to us by The House of Solid Gold owner Hugh Power, who has been designing and creating outrageous objects of art for over 30 years. This time working with Dan Bull, an internationally recognised ultra athlete and extreme sports promoter who was founder of ‘Iditabike’, the extreme race through Alaska in the winter.

Named ‘The Beverly Hills Edition’, this extreme mountain bike, also known as a ‘fat bike’, is handcrafted and overlaid with pure 24k gold, taking well over 750 hours to complete.

Only 13 gold extreme bikes will be made, each one being totally customised and made to the buyer’s wants and needs, including the custom emblem bearing The House of Solid Gold logo, ‘THSG’ embellished and encrusted with over 600

Black Diamonds (6.0 carats in total) and 500 Golden Sapphires (4.5 carats in total).

The unique customised seat is covered in fine chocolate brown alligator skin and is absolutely beautiful. It also comes with a one-of-a-kind water bottle, covered in gold and accented with a chocolate brown stingray.

Finally, the bike is laser engraved with the artist’s signature, dated and numbered as the first of 13 and is accompanied with a certificate of authenticity.

Furthermore, Power has promised at least 90% of the profits from the sale of the golden bicycle will go directly to The Way to Happiness Foundation International. $1,000,000 (gift wrapping available) (thehouseofsolidgold.com)

image © Hammid, of Beverly Hills

Technology central What’s hot in the world of gadgets, games and geekery

Top tech #1 Garmin Vector The idea behind the Garmin Vector power metre is to measure power at the pedals, offering riders the ability to assess left/right leg contribution and easily swap the system between bikes. £1,349.99 (garmin.com)

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#2 Fitbit Flex This handy wristband tracks steps, distance, calories burned and sleep activity and monitors a brand new statistic ‘active minutes’ to help keep you motivated (available to view on the dashboard and on Fitbit’s new online app). Available in a range of colours to suit your personality. £79.99 (fitbit.com)

The The cheshire cheshire Magazine Magazine | Technology | Lifestyle

‘Computers are useless.

They can only give you answers’

THE APP

– Pablo Picasso

Have you ever looked at your drinks cabinet and wondered what you could make? Just tell Mixtura what ingredients you have and let it pick the perfect cocktail for you. (iOS only) £Free (in-app purchases) (mixturaapp.com)

THE GAME

Mixtura

Grid Autosport

Immerse yourself in the thrilling and intense world of a professional race driver with Grid Autosport, the third game in Codemasters’ authentic racing series. Overcome key rivals and satisfy team sponsors in ferocious races where every single pass and position really counts. £34.85 (amazon.co.uk)

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#3 Celestron SkyProdigy 130 This fantastic looking telescope combines electronic motors, an intelligent on-board computer, a digital camera and ‘StarSense’ technology to create an automatic, instant alignment telescope that requires no human input. Simply turn it on, push a button and enjoy the view. £89.99 (celestron.com)

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#4 GoPro Hero 3 Black Edition Featuring cinema quality video and a 12-megapixel camera the unit is also Wi-Fi enabled, waterproof and can be gear mountable. Also included is a Wi-Fi remote, so you could have the remote on your wrist while the camcorder is attached to your helmet. £279.95 (johnlewis.com)

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#5 Bose® SIE2i Sport Headphones The SIE2i sport headphones are specifically engineered for exercise. They’re sweat and weather-resistant, stay comfortably yet securely in place and deliver robust Bose sound to keep you at your peak. £129.95 (johnlewis.com)

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The ocean blue For those tiring of holidays on dry land but loath to part from their creature comforts, Burgess Yachts might just have the perfect alternative. The global superyacht industry leader’s three top-of-the-line floating palaces, Cloud 9, Hemisphere (both available for charter) and Cakewalk (for sale) offer such opulent facilities as home cinemas, state-of-the-art gyms, en-suite Jacuzzis, day spas, sun decks, a whole range of fantastic water toys and, in one case, even an on board PADI certified scuba centre. And the location? Anywhere you like. Beat that, boutique hotel. (burgessyachts.com)

Travel news With destinations near and far, we have all the holiday inspiration you’ll need this August - not to mention our new favourite travel accessory A travelling partnership No matter your destination, travel in style this summer with Debrett's and Jodie Kidd’s new travel wallet collection. The chic pieces can be purchased in large or small, bright orange or lotus blue. A fully leather-lined interior oozes class and sophistication, while the versatility of the wallets means they can be worn across the body or as an evening clutch. Straight from the plane to the party then… (debretts.com/debretts-shop)

Another pig in the litter You might assume that coastline views and ice cream form the perfect relaxation recipe, and you would be right. The newest opening from our favourite farmyard animal-themed hotel brand is The Pig on the Beach, situated on the sandy shores of Studland Bay. A restaurant menu of home-grown delights, sourced from its own fruit cages and vegetable gardens is just one element that is bound to bring visitors from near and far to the idyllic seaside property. Spend the night in one of the 23 quirky rooms, or fully unwind by taking a stroll across the fields for a massage in the rustic Shepherd’s Huts. (thepighotel.com)

‘To move, to breathe, to fly, to float; to gain all while you give; to roam the roads of lands remote; to travel is to live’ – Hans Christian Andersen 104

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

Home is where the hart is History reigns supreme at Hartwell House this August as the hotel is not only celebrating its Silver Jubilee but also the 200th anniversary of the departure of King Louis XVIII; he left to claim the throne of France in 1814 and was Hartwell House’s most famous resident. Today the hotel continues to accommodate high-profile guests, having recently hosted the G7 meeting, as well as city dwellers looking for a relaxing country escape or as a base to explore what Oxford, the Cotsworlds and the Chiltern Hills have to offer.

To celebrate its anniversary, the hotel is offering a selection of packages throughout 2014, including stays from Monday to Thursday for £180 per person per night, including dinner, half a bottle of champagne and Hartwell chocolates, a VIP Bicester invitation, 20 per cent discount off treatments in the Hartwell Spa, full English breakfast and free Wi-Fi. Friday and Saturday night rates start from £199. (hartwell-house.com)

Long haul Vs short haul

Long haul

The Sofitel So, Singapore Singapura, the Malay name for Singapore, literally translates to ‘Lion City’, and it is this fact that inspired Karl Lagerfeld’s red and white ‘lion’s seal’ emblem for the island’s new Sofitel So Hotel. As a collaborator with the luxury French hotel brand, the contemporary boutique hotel offers a glimpse into the future of hospitality. Its Xperience bar and restaurant offers a customised menu of food and cocktails and the golden-tiled rooftop infinity pool boasts panoramic views. (sofitel.com)

Short haul

The Waldorf Astoria, Amsterdam Testing the water The first stage of a multi-million pound refurbishment of the five-star Hotel Royal at Evian Resort will be revealed this July. Its sixth floor, now with public areas and private suites, has been redesigned by well-known French interior designer François Champsaur. With his notable talent for playing on the light and volume of spaces, he brings a contemporary edge to this early 20th century building. While enjoying their luxurious surroundings, guests will also be able to appreciate their suite’s panoramic views of Lake Geneva. (evianresort.com)

There aren’t many cities in the world that can successfully combine a rich cultural history with a famously debauched alter-ego. It is this contrast that gives Amsterdam its inimitable charm, and makes it the perfect location of the 25th Waldorf Astoria Hotel. The hotel boasts the largest private garden in the city. In keeping with the heritage of the canal houses, the original features include an 18th century staircase and Rococo decor. (waldorfastoria.com) 105

Anything you

Cannes do

After the 67th Cannes Film Festival descended upon the city in a blaze of camera flashes, red carpets and star-studded film premieres, Rachel Mulrenan explored the quieter side of this glamorous coastal hotspot

H

ome to million-pound yachts in the harbour, chic restaurants where the food plays second fiddle to the faces, and the legendary film festival, which took place on 14-25 May this year, you’d be forgiven for thinking of Cannes as purely a destination for the rich and famous. Yet, despite the glitz and glamour, parts of the city retain an air of understated elegance and it’s easy to see why stars such as Brad Pitt, Penelope Cruz and Charlotte Gainsbourg have chosen to escape to some of these.

In the hills next to quaint French town

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Mougins, seven kilometres from Cannes, Le Mas Candille boasts spectacular views of the Grasse valley, with the snow-topped Alps just visible in the distance. As I arrive from Nice airport (a 25-minute drive away), my car sweeps through the gates into a drive lined either side with olive trees, with nine acres of landscaped gardens beyond. I spot lavender, blossom, palm trees and pine forest; home already feels a world away.

The hotel comprises several separate Provençal-style terracotta buildings, which gives it a secluded and private feel, even in high season. The three ‘wings’ offer accommodation

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Travel

options ranging from quaint traditional farmhouse rooms to expansive suites boasting walk-in wardrobes, enormous waterfall showers and private terraces. My room in La Bastide, a short walk from the main hotel building, is light, airy, spacious, decorated in soft yellow, almond, cream and coral. It has an almost Moorish feel to it in terms of decor, with latticed detailing on the lamps and furniture, and the spacious bed boasts crisp cotton sheets. The marble bathroom houses a huge shower, expansive bath, Molton Brown toiletries and a fluffy bathrobe with dove grey slippers, which I

immediately put on before stepping out onto my sun-soaked balcony overlooking the valley.

‘I’m told that the Michelin-starred Restaurant Candille is popular with both guests and locals’ I’m told that the Michelin-starred Restaurant Candille is popular with both guests and locals, and it’s not difficult to see why. Head chef Serge Gouloumès and his team turn out delicious 

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and unusual dishes, including oeuf surprise with wild mushrooms and fresh seared scallops, using local produce. A mango and pineapple sorbet dessert is the highlight of the meal; refreshing and perfectly sized. Special mention must also go to the macaroons, served as petit fours, which are incredible.

After lunch it’s time to head into nearby Grasse, the perfume-making centre of the world.

The roses for Chanel No. 5 and Hermès perfumes are grown just outside of the town, so I am in good hands as I learn about the history of perfume during a tour of the perfume-making workshop and museum. This is dedicated to the history of perfume’s ability to ‘communicate, heal and seduce’; trust the French to have a museum dedicated to the art of seduction. It’s beautifully curated, with highlights including the travel case of Marie Antoinette.

Dinner involves another visit to the hotel restaurant for a feast of fresh asparagus with sherry-infused mushroom foam, tender Iberian pork chop with cauliflower paella, violet-scented dragon fruit and mango, rounded off with the most impressive cheese board I have ever seen. I practically roll back to my room and, the early-morning start finally catching up with me, fall into a deep sleep.

The next morning I’m up bright and early for a trip to the market and a cookery class with Serge. The market is a sensory experience, with locals picking up their daily essentials, and Serge bantering and bartering with the vendors, who he clearly knows well. We then ensconce ourselves in the kitchen, glass of wine in hand, and nibble on succulent Iberico ham, olives and cheese while Serge effortlessly whips up dishes such as langoustine with cream sauce and

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tender aubergine. In the name of journalistic integrity, I greedily sample each dish.

I’d recommend paying a visit to the hotel’s award-winning spa; one of only three French spas dedicated to the Japanese brand Shiseido, it recently added Best Spa in France to its list of accolades. My massage is heavenly and so relaxing I almost nod off. Afterwards I enjoy a jasmine tea in the light and airy relaxation room, before attempting lengths in the heated

‘There’s also a sauna, Jacuzzi and even a partially-outdoors gym, perfect for active types’ outdoor hydrotherapy pool. There’s also a sauna, Jacuzzi and even a partially-outdoors gym, perfect for active types. After such a blissful massage, though, all I can manage is a gentle stroll around Mougins, a small and sleepy French town with bleached stone buildings with terracotta roofs and pastel-coloured shutters. As I wander up steep, winding streets, I catch tantalisingly blue glimpses of the sea between the buildings. Despite its diminutive size, Mougins has an impressive art legacy; Picasso lived there for 12 years and the town boasts numerous art galleries and boutiques, as well as the Mougins Museum of Classical Art. Opened in 2011, it is now regarded as one of the best small museums in the world, with Classical Greek artefacts mingling with works by Dalí, Lichtenstein and Rodin. The town is also known for its culinary prowess and hosts a gastronomic festival every year.

On my last day, I take a tour of Cannes’ old

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town. Tucking into fresh mozzarella salad and charcoal grilled prawns on the beach, I lament my impending departure. Le Mas Candille is a gem of a hotel; luxurious but with a family feel.

The friendly owner, Leeds-born Mark Silver, will go the extra mile to ensure every whim is catered for, from organising a gourmet picnic to chartering a yacht for the day. I will most

certainly be back.

Three nights from £749pp (based on two sharing) includes flights to Nice, return private car transfers, accommodation with breakfast, Kirker’s Guide Notes and the services of the Kirker Concierge. Stay four nights for the price of three – saving £178 pp – from 1 September until 6 October 020 7593 2288; kirkerholidays.com.

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T

hailand has hit the headlines in recent months due to political protests and the eventual coup, however at the time of writing disturbance for tourists is over and this amazing country is very much open for business. There’s so much to discover, from paradisiacal island hideaways to flamboyant cities and a multitude of experiences to be had, so combining two or more destinations as part of a multi-centre holiday is a great way to enjoy this land of contrasts.

explore…

thailand With pristine tropical beaches, an abundance of culture and a famously warm welcome, Thailand makes for a captivating holiday experience. Luxury travel expert Annelouise Speakman explores…

Bangkok Steamy night markets and gleaming shopping malls, temples and tuk tuks – steeped in tradition yet thoroughly modern, Bangkok is the first stop on many visitors’ itineraries.

Within this bustling metropolis you’ll find pockets of tranquillity, whether you’re dining in one of the city’s exclusive rooftop restaurants, such as the stunning, open-air Vertigo atop the 61 storey Banyan Tree Hotel or listening to the lovely ringing sound of coins being thrown into the 108 bronze wish pots of the huge Reclining Buddha at Wat Pho. Where to stay: The intimate and indulgent Sala Rattanakosin has just 17 luxurious guest rooms and features unsurpassed views across the Chao Phraya River to the Temple of the Dawn.

Similan Islands

sala rattanakosin

Phuket Phuket is the biggest and busiest of the Thai islands, however the raucous nightlife of Patong is easily escaped, whether you’re looking for secluded bays with white sands and sheer limestone karsts jutting vertically from the emerald-green water or uber-groomed five-star resorts where celebrity-chef restaurants and deluxe beach bars are the order of the day.

Where to stay: There’s no shortage of luxury hotels on Phuket, but the extensive new Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort is perfectly positioned for the island’s many attractions. For a real away-from-it-all experience, The Naka Island is a refined escape on the island of Naka Yai overlooking the idyllic Phang Nga Bay.

Damnoen Saduak Floating Market

Elephant Hills, Khao Sok

Elephant Hills, Khao Sok

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Elephant Hills, Khao Sok

The cheshire Magazine | Travel

The Naka Island, Phuket

Khao Lak The perfect place to recharge your batteries, Khao Lak on Thailand’s southwest coast sits next to a trio of National Parks, so picture-postcard scenery abounds. Try to tear yourself away and visit the beautiful Similan Islands.

Where to stay: Set on 11km of pristine beachfront, The Sarojin boutique resort offers guests the services of an “Imagineer” – a dedicated concierge who is on hand to advise on all the resort and the amazing local area have to offer.

Inspired experiences include arriving by elephant to a private dinner at the foot of a candlelit jungle waterfall; culinary adventures where you catch and cook your own dinner; scuba diving trips to the nearby National Parks and a spiritual blessing of love at a local temple.

my SUITCASE E S S E N T I A L S

#1 Bag, £231, Chie Mihara (chiemihara.com) #2 Watch, £845, Maurice Lacroix (beaverbrooks.co.uk)

Khao Sok Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort

Phuket

Covered by the oldest evergreen rainforest in the world, the Khao Sok National Park is an amazing place with huge limestone cliffs soaring straight up in the air; breath-taking lakes and an abundance of wildlife. Located in southern Thailand, a visit here adds an extra dimension to your holiday alongside the beaches and cities.

Where to stay: Elephant Hills is a luxury tented camp set within the rainforest where visitors sleep under canvas, swim beneath waterfalls and trek through the jungle. The highlight of a stay is the opportunity to interact with, feed and wash the magnificent elephants.

#3 Teeli, £59, Les 100 Ciels (les100c.com)

When to go

Vertigo, Bangkok

Thailand is generally hot and humid with distinct dry and rainy seasons. The best time to visit most resorts is from November to March.

There are seasonal variations between beach resorts; for example, east coast resorts have more sun and less rain from May to June.

Annelouise Speakman is a luxury travel expert and director at Destinology.

47 – 49 Alderley Road, Wilmslow SK9 1NZ (destinology.co.uk, 01625 88 55 88)

#4 Shorts, £175, Marc Cain (marc-cain.com)

#5 Sandal, £251, Chie Mihara (chiemihara.com)

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Collection Travel | The | The CHESHIRE CHESHIRE Magazine Magazine

Weekend away

… Watermark, the Cotswolds WORDS: GEMMA KNIGHT

I

mmaculate clapboard lodges dotted around the edges of five picture-perfect lakes, swans gliding past the end of private jetties and sun glinting off gently lapping water. This may sound – and, to all intents and purposes, look – like a scene straight out of an upmarket lake house community in New England, but is in fact a collection of luxury developments in a leafy corner of the Cotswolds Water Park (a 40 square mile area with 140 lakes) just 150 miles from central Cheshire.

There are 350 properties in all, a small portion of which are available to rent, the rest of which are owned as second homes (which can be lived in as secondary residences for eleven or twelve months of the year, depending on which lake you choose). With vast, furniturefilled decking overlooking the water and light, airy interiors, the lodges are ideal for family getaways or escaping with a group of friends for a few days of R&R. Spring Lake, which attracts a slightly younger crowd, boasts a watersports clubhouse and restaurant/bar, while a meandering network of bike paths encircles the whole site and the neighbouring Four Pillars hotel provides a pool, spa and gym should you and your party tire of lazing about on your sun-drenched deck or exploring the stunning rural setting and nearby villages.

We arrived to find that the fridge had been fully stocked with a mouth-watering selection of

platters, from goats’ cheese tart to pulled lamb with pomegranate, mozzarella pasta salad, crusty bread with cheese and some excellent wine.

These, it transpired, were courtesy of Cirencester’s Gastro Deli, who will gladly stock your lodge for the duration of your stay (the minimum order is £50) and deliver it free of charge before you arrive. Nevertheless, with the larger lodges boasting sleek, super-sized kitchens designed by luxury interiors brand L’Una, cooking up a storm during your stay sounds rather fun too.

If you fancy venturing further afield for dinner, The Wild Duck gastro pub lies a ten minute drive towards Cirencester in the sleepy village of Ewen.

With ceilings laden with bunches of dried hops and walls sporting royal portraits, the service is as warm as the food is hearty and the selection of local cask ales is rather a treat.

Each of the Watermark Lakes is a gated community with 24-hour security and, should you decide to buy a lodge of your own and rent it out when you’re away, all maintenance issues can be managed by the on-site Savills housekeeping team.

A self-catering holiday home within easy reach is one thing, but one which transports you half way across the world and feels every inch the Hamptons hideaway – for all the trouble of a three hour drive – is really quite another. (watermarkcotswolds.com)

‘A meandering network of bike paths encircles the whole site’ 112

Thailand Dubai Maldives Mauritius Europe Caribbean USA

HYATT REGENCY PHUKET REsoRT, THAILAND ExqUIsITE LUxURY fRom ÂŁ1245 Exclusive offer includes free room upgrade, 20% off spa treatments & 9 nights for the price of 6 Let the travel experts at Destinology tailor-make your next luxury holiday. Choose from hand-picked resorts in spectacular destinations such as the stunning new Hyatt Regency Phuket Resort and experience truly personalised service every step of the way.

Price is per person based on 2 adults sharing an Ocean View Room for 9 nights, on Bed & Breakfast, travel selected dates 11 Aug - 31 Oct 14, incl.

Etihad flights from Manchester. Book by 31 Aug. Price subject to availability.

Booking conditions apply.

Destinology - cheshire magazine.indd 1

01625 88 55 88

www.destinology.co.uk/wilmslow 47 - 49 Alderley Road, Wilmslow, Cheshire, SK9 1NZ

02/07/2014 15:01:10

First wish granted When the kids scribble ‘Magical Princess Castle’ onto the wish list this Christmas, it might well seem like rather a long-shot. Well look no further; Master Wishmakers are introducing their collection of luxury outdoor playhouses.

We can’t get enough of the ‘Pretty Princess Castle’ which comes in beautiful pastel colours with custom made furniture, fit for any princess to be… We’ll have to leave the request for a matching horse-drawn carriage down to you, though!

Custom made Pretty Princess Castle £52,000 (masterwishmakers.com)

Kids’ news Princess castles, pearls for little girls and our newest columnist; Pomeranian-about-town Mr Henrix Wild at heart Lions and tigers and bunnies, oh my. Bonnie Baby founder Tracey Samuel has designed this season’s collection by taking inspiration from her own children’s favourite animals.

The friendly creature appliques come to life with three-dimensional knitted ears and loveable animated faces and the range includes knitted playsuits, cardigans, sweaters, and dresses in block summery hues of sunshine yellow, ice cream pink and ocean blue. Get ready to go wild. (bonniebaby.co.uk)

The cat’s whiskers Channel everyone’s favourite feline in some playful but tasteful bling, courtesy of luxury jeweller Mikimoto, who has teamed up with Hello Kitty. Mikimoto’s famous pearls are showcased in creative designs reflecting the character’s iconic face as well as her signature bow, while other pieces include shaped bangles and chokers. The pièce de résistance has to be an elaborate tiara, complete with diamond centre, pearl flowers and jewelled strawberry lockets hiding Hello Kitty figures. (hellokitty.mikimoto.com) 114

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Potter mad If you spent your school days daydreaming through geography about how much better a timetable of potions and dark arts would be – and mourn the days of queueing outside Waterstones for the latest release – then here’s a whole new reason to get excited. Just when you thought the Harry Potter franchise had closed its last chapter, it is being reissued with new artwork, including covers by artist Jonny Duddle, best known for his award-winning picture books The Pirate Cruncher and The Pirates Next Door. The titles will also include highlights from Pottermore, the wizarding digital platform. While the first two in the series are available to buy, you’ll have to wait until 1 September for the rest.

Published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books, from £6.99

Like mother, like daughter We love the idea behind the new website, My Fashion Tribu, recently set up by Parisian mother Jane Galland. Inspired by the fact that all little girls are occasionally guilty of trying on mummy’s shoes, Jane created a site full of gorgeous designer brands (we especially love the Bensimon Plimsolls, perfect for the playground and available in an assortment of delicious summery colours) where each adult shoe comes with an adorable paired junior design. With everything from pumps and trainers, to sandals and chic heels on offer, your mini-me need never envy your footwear ever again. (myfashiontribu.com)

d MR HENDRIX e h s a e nl U

R

oaring fires, rustic beams but most importantly dog biscuits on the bar make The Swan with Two Nicks one of my favourite hideaways. Situated a stick’s throw from Dunham Massey Hall, this is the perfect place to bring your well trained owners after wearing them out around the fields and country lanes of this idyllic part of Cheshire.

My owner Anji suffers from separation anxiety so it’s a great place for us to visit together, where she can indulge in the freshly cooked food on the a la carte menu or afternoon tea, whilst I listen to the resident hounds and their shaggy dog stories.

Once owned by the Earls of Stamford this quintessential country pub is full of character and quirky twists while offering a homely atmosphere, it’s a total escape from city life. Steeped in history dating back to the 16th century, originally named the Bollington Tenement No.17, then The Swan Alehouse before a final change to The Swan with Two Nicks around 1929. The origins of this name derive from the two companies granted a special license in 1550 by the monarch to share in the ownership of all swans previously owned by the Crown.

To determine which company owned which swans The Dyers company made one nick on the swan’s beak whilst the Vitners company made two nicks.

Today the swans are ringed not nicked at the annual swan upping on the Thames in July.

I personally like to keep my distance from the swans themselves, they have more attitude than my feisty girlfriend.

As we leave The Swan with Two Nicks I’m feeling in good health, belly full and it’s time to go see a man about a dog so I take the stroll back through Dunham Massey. I’ve left my paw prints with pride around Dunham Massey and The Swan with Two Nicks and I’m sure it won’t be long before we make our way back to sample again the delicious food, award winning real ales, the warmest of welcomes and of course free drinks for all canine cuties no matter what your shape or size.

I will leave you to discover for yourself the gems that are hidden 20 minutes from Manchester.

Join me next month where I will be talking about vitamins for both humans and their four legged friends.

Love and Licks

Mr Hendrix

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Family | The CHESHIRE Magazine

A

lthough every day feels like Christmas when you have a raucous brood under the age of three, getting out to do the Waitrose shop is hard enough, not to mention buying new season wardrobes.

Welcome Box Upon A Time, a new childrenswear subscription box that delivers a gift-wrapped bundle of outfits to your door every month, ideal for time-poor mums or one-off present ideas. After filling out a ‘fashion profile’ questionnaire, ensembles are handpicked by the in-house team of stylists from brands including Marmalade & Mash, Il Gufo and Marie Chantal (pictured), then dropped to your home or office, all tied up with a bow.

From 0-3 years (boxuponatime.co.uk)

Box fresh

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tnschool.co.uk

From Nursery to Year 8 • Pupils are typically performing significantly higher than national levels of achievement • The only school in Cheshire to feature in Tatler’s Schools Guide to the top prep schools • Fantastic outdoor facilities including a forest learning environment and extensive playing fields • Wraparound care from breakfast club to after school activities • Optional, flexible boarding, from Year 3, to fit with modern family life • Extended Year 7&8 programme launch for 2014 • Located in a rural setting near to Jodrell Bank

The TN advantage

• Enviable list of next destination schools, including Rugby, Harrow, Uppingham and Manchester Grammar School

“With so many opportunities, Terra Nova gave me the bug to get involved with everything and try new things.TN doesn’t just turn out excellent academic results. It concentrates on making children well-rounded and confident individuals.You can be as clever as you like, but if you can’t hold a good conversation then you’re never going to do well in an interview.”

To find out more call Melanie Machin on 01477 571261

Amelia Anderson, Former TN pupil and Reader in Music, Oxford University

• Small class sizes • Specialist teachers • Tailored curriculum built around academic, creative, physical, and personal development • 36 acres of beautiful grounds

Terra Nova School, Jodrell Bank, Holmes Chapel, Cheshire, CW4 8BT

PAUL OGDEN FUND MANAGER. EXTREME RUNNER. WACONIAN. Like many other Old Waconians, Paul Ogden (Class of 1983) has gone on to have a successful career in the City, as a Founding Partner of a fund management company with over $200 million assets under management. He is convinced that his time at Cheadle Hulme School played an invaluable part in preparing him for his career in business.

Away from his business life, Paul is a keen sportsman and distance runner, competing in over 20 marathons.

“I think being an Old Waconian means that you know you’ve got a strong academic background but also that you’ve grown up in an environment where you’re encouraged to think differently about things.”

FOR DETAILS OF OUR NEXT OPEN DAY AND TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN BECOME A WACONIAN, VISIT

whatisawaconian.co.uk

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

Family days out Stuck for things to do with the kids this summer? Fret no longer, as we bring you our pick of local family days out to keep everyone from toddlers to teenagers entertained over the holidays WORDS: GEMMA KNIGHT

 Gulliver’s World, Warrington Full of rides and attractions designed to cater for kids between two and thirteen, this is a great option if you’ve got thrill-seekers of varying ages to please. (gulliversfun.co.uk/warrington)

 Chester Zoo, Chester

 Sandy Lane Aqua Park and Playground, Chester

During the summer months this outdoor water park even has equipment operated by sensory touch pads, plus it’s an excellent way for mums to catch some rays while the kids play.

(Sandy Lane, Chester CH3 5UL)

Voted one of the top zoos in the world and the UK’s number one charity, not to mention boasting more than 11,000 animals, this one gets extra points for being secretly educational too (shh). (chesterzoo.org)

 Catalyst Science Discovery Centre, Widnes

If you must give kids a science lesson during the holidays, it really should include some fun interactive exhibits and hands-on displays – plus a fantastic glass-walled rooftop observatory with incredible views. (catalyst.org.uk)

 Wheelock Hall Petting Farm, Sandbach

All the usual sweet animals begging to be stroked, and a special mention to the convoy of pedal-play tractors on offer for budding pint-sized farmers.

(Crewe Rd, Sandbach, Cheshire East CW11 4RE)

 Cotebrook Shire Horse Centre, Cotebrook

From very little to very large, girls and boys with a penchant for ponies will be in their element surrounded by everything from Shire horses to mini Shetland ponies. (cotebrookshirehorses.co.uk)

 Cheshire Falconry, Northwich Currently most notable for its Junior Owl Experience which gives children the chance to actually fly their own owl (surely a must for any Harry Potter fans out there?). (cheshirefalconry.com)

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Variety Club Kirsty Howard Letter 2_Layout 1 15/05/2014 09:22 Page 1

Honours

Kirsty Howard Outstanding Achievement Award Saturday, 20th September 2014 Hilton Hotel, Deansgate, Manchester Kirsty has raised over £7.5 million for Francis House Children’s Hospice. She has inspired Royalty, Prime Ministers, Heads of State and world-class Sports and Entertainment industry stars with her determination and strength of character to survive against all the odds. Who could not be in awe of this amazing young lady, who has touched so many people’s lives?

This event will be the highest profile Variety function of 2014 in Manchester, attended by many of Kirsty’s VIP guests. The event will include a sumptuous threecourse meal and wonderful entertainment including fabulous raffle and auction prizes.

This “Outstanding Achievement Award” dinner will be instrumental in raising much needed funds for Francis House Children’s Hospice and Variety, the children’s charity.

Tickets for this prestigious event are very limited and are as the following:

£125 Platinum VIP ticket £100 Gold ticket £75 Silver ticket We do hope you can join us for this special “Outstanding Achievement Award” dinner to the amazing Kirsty Howard, who truly deserves to be recognised for her outstanding achievements in life and for her dedication to her charity work, and we are delighted this event is being held on Kirsty’s 19th Birthday, a double celebration.

Call Variety, the children’s charity for more information and to reserve your place at this prestigious event

T: 0161 236 0500 E: northwest@variety.org.uk www.variety.org.uk @VarietyGB #varietykirsty Variety, the Children's Charity | Registered Charity No. 209259 (England & Wales) and SC038505 (Scotland)

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Family

The classroom This month Cheshire’s students have been busy out of the classroom as well as in, fundraising, getting outdoors and naming a horse words: louisa castle

Charity begins at school This year King’s School pupils have organised a huge number of charity events to raise a staggering amount of money for local good causes. Rugby players donned pink to raise money for Cancer Research in a mixed students and staff touch rugby game; the Girls’ Division raised over £5,000 with a packed fundraising calendar in aid of Destination Florida, a local charity aiming to send children with serious or life threatening illnesses on fabulous holidays; and the Boys’ Division raised over £2,000 for The Seashell Trust, a local charity that provides education and care for young people with complex and severe learning disabilities. (kingsmac.cheshire.sch.uk)

Forest School Terra Nova School is set to become a Forest School which will see the introduction of three outdoor classroom environments, two shelters and one fully enclosed and functioning outdoor classroom complete with a wood burning stove. The first classroom will be built over the summer, ready for a September opening. Staff will be trained to deliver forest lessons, which will feature on the timetable. Lessons will range from exploring the site and nature investigations, to shelter building and lighting fires. Teamwork skills are developed through games and activities and individual skills and self-esteem are heightened through activities such as hide and seek, shelter building, tool skills and lighting fires. (tnschool.co.uk)

Horsing around Bolesworth International ran a special new Schools’ Day as part of the four-day show-jumping event this year. Teachers across schools in Cheshire were invited to enter a competition to name the show’s mascot. The winning name from Tarvin Primary School was Toffee and was announced at the opening ceremony, hosted by footballer Michael Owen. Groups of school children enjoyed the equestrian highlights as well as learning the skills of den building, sculpting and land art with the Earth Skills Project and discovering the wonderful world of bees with the Cheshire Beekeeping Association. (bolesworthinternational.com)

Fundraising run Students and staff at Abbey College Manchester completed the 10k Bupa Great Manchester Run helping to raise almost £2,100 in aid of the War Child Charity, which supports the protection of young people in some of the world’s worst conflict-affected areas. The Run is a weekend festival of sport which sees thousands of people raise money for deserving causes. You can support Principal Liz Elam and the Abbey College Manchester team by visiting justgiving.com/ teams/abbeycollege2014. (abbeymanchester.co.uk) 121

Domestic, childcare and private catering staff for your home and family.

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Call Laura Harrall at our Manchester office to discuss your requirements for staff in Cheshire and across the north of England.

Email: laura@greycoatlumleys.co.uk Telephone: +44 (0)161 667 9420 Online: www.greycoatlumleys.co.uk

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A leading light The creations of lighting visionary Eva Menz

CONNECTICUT

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The former New England estate of Katharine Hepburn

image: wallpaper from Victoria Cramsie’s which came first collection (paperboywallpaper.co.uk)

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Home & interiors news

#1 A TRIBUTE TO DAVID COLLINS A visual A to Z of Irish architect David Collins’ work and influences has been published by Assoline.

Presented alphabetically to reveal his myriad influences and inspirations, a bold portfolio of images is included, along with a foreword from his best friend Madonna. Collins set up his eponymous Studio in 1985 and over the next 28 years, he created timeless and beautiful spaces, each of which exhibits a definitive sense of place; whether it’s a hotel, restaurant or glamorous residence.

ABCDCS: David Collins Studio, £50 (assouline.com)

#2 HANDLE WITH CARE As all style-conscious homeowners know, the devil is in the detail. Bespoke door handle company Haute Déco brings a touch of flair to its handmade products, which span an impressive portfolio of colours and finishes, including stone textures, pop-art brights and transparent forms.

We love the Duchess Lace models in nickel for a modern take on an Art Deco finish and the gem-coloured glass for summer holiday villas. (doorknobshop.com)

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#3 AMPHIBIAN ADDITION If the kids have been begging you for a new room since Christmas, Victoria Cramsie can help you with her hand-drawn wallpaper collection, Which Came First. The prints feature a variety of characters from the animal world, including turtles and ostriches in neutral tones which won’t throw out the rest of your decor. (paperboywallpaper.co.uk)

#5 A CULTURED COUCH

#4 FROM HOLLYWOOD TO LONDON Furniture inspired by the golden era of Hollywood will soon be winding its way into Cheshire homes in the form of Francis Sultana’s entirely new collection, Anita. We love the fur-wrapped pieces which are included in the designer’s distinctive compilation of seating, each one contributing both character and cosiness. Ensuring versatility of the furniture was kept in mind throughout the design process, Sultana promises a comfortable and useful addition to any Cheshire home – just as long as you’re a fur fan.

From £5,400 (francissultana.com)

If the change of seasons has left you considering an interiors revamp, look no further than Alexandra D Foster’s luxury cushion collection. Guaranteed to brighten up your living room, each silk cushion has been individually printed and handsewn at one of the most highly regarded mills in northern Italy’s picturesque Lake Como. In the spirit of all things ‘summer holiday’, images inspired by Rome, Tokyo and Marrakech are amongst the famous cities Foster has personally selected to adorn the high quality collection. (alexandradfoster.com)

#6 A WOVEN MASTERPIECE You’ll struggle to find a better way to enjoy the beautiful August sunshine than while hosting a summer feast around the Cuba Mocha Oval Table from Indian Ocean. This striking new addition to its Cuba range serves as an an elegant centrepiece to any outside space, which, when matched with the Cuba Mocha Sofa Corner or woven loungers, creates an instant, stylish entertaining area. Let’s get this party started.

Cuba Mocha Oval Table, £1,495 and Mocha Sofa Corner, £950 (indian-ocean.co.uk)

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Homes and Interiors

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Inside and out Iconic actress Katharine Hepburn’s legendary seaside estate certainly has a charming history and, with its perfect combination of cosy interiors and wide open spaces, will soon be providing the latest in a string of ambitious owners with their very own Connecticut haven.

WORDS: GEMMA KNIGHT

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t was the dream home which Katharine Hepburn, African Queen, Little Woman and silver screen icon, designed with the help of children’s building blocks bought from FAO Schwarz, turning the whims of a vivid imagination into an all-but unrivalled example of poise, privacy and picturesque views.

Set within the small Old Saybrook borough of Fenwick, a historic and private community located where the Long Island Sound meets the Connecticut River, the area was also the site of the Hepburn family’s previous home, its waterfront

famously providing a place for entrepreneur Howard Hughes (with whom Hepburn was in a relationship during the latter 1930s) to land his then-extraordinary sea planes when he came to visit – a spectacle replicated, like the former house itself, in the 2004 Leonardo DiCaprio film The Aviator.

The original house was destroyed by a storm in 1939, floating away across the water while the Hepburn family watched from higher ground, leaving only foundation bricks and a claw-footed bathtub where it once stood. After this, Hepburn 

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Homes and Interiors

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reportedly hand-designed the model for her family’s new summer home (this time slightly higher off the ground than its predecessor) and incorporated all the features she most desired in a retreat, amongst them an army of huge, open fireplaces (seven in total) and, crucially, more than three adjacent acres designated to remain open in perpetuity, permanently assuring two of the house’s greatest attributes; privacy and spectacular unobstructed views.

The house also boasts a rather extravagant six bedrooms (some with truly jaw-dropping views over the water), seven and a half bathrooms, a kitchen, den, chart room, potting room, pantry and laundry room, not to mention several living and dining rooms overlooking the Sound itself, all spread across three light-filled storeys which total a decadent 8,300 square feet. And the outside is no less spectacular. A screened porch wraps around one end of the house, while the grounds include a sweeping private sandy beach, sprawling lawns, two-car garage and a dock for easy access by boat to the Sound itself and, on the opposite shore, the

‘The house boasts a rather extravagant six bedrooms (some with truly jawdropping views over the water)’

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affluent and exclusive Hamptons which perch on the southern fork of Long Island.

The iconic actress summered at Old Saybrook for sixty-five years, from the time the house was built until her death at 96 in 2003, when it was consequently put up for sale. A year later – having (somewhat incredibly, considering its heritage) halved in price from $12 million (£7.1 million) to $6 million (£3.5 million) – the slightly dilapidated property was snapped up by construction-magnate-turneddeveloper Frank Sciame. The owner and founder of the F. J. Sciame Construction Company, a megalith providing construction management and renovation services for commercial and institutional projects, Sciame was an eminently suitable candidate and responsible for working on an impressive string of high-profile New York City landmarks, including the Pierpont Morgan Library, Central Synagogue, St. Patrick’s Cathedral and Guggenheim Museum.

In 2005 Sciame began renovating the Hepburn Estate, starting by raising the entire three-storey structure by five feet to protect it from the ravages of the Sound (luckily, since it undoubtedly saved the house from a severe battering when Hurricanes Irene and Sandy followed hard on the renovation’s heels in August 2011 and October 2012 respectively).

Next he oversaw the installation of entirely new systems throughout the house, as well as seamlessly

augmenting the historic structure to create light-filled rooms which, despite being aesthetically modern and minimalist, still hark back to the integral period charm which Sciame was so keen to preserve. He also restored the original pine-panelled fireplaces and incorporated oversized windows, coffered ceilings and built-in cabinetry throughout the whole house, combining the historic and the modern to create a quintessential family home with a heavy emphasis on its unique legacy.

By 2011 the renovation was finished and the estate was ready to be put back on the market, this time for a whopping $18 million for the house alone or $28 million for the house and its two adjoining waterfront lots – quite a jump from the $6 million it had sold for just seven years earlier. It was then taken off the market again and relisted a year later, this time noticeably lacking the two adjacent lots, supposedly because Sciame and his family had become so enamoured with the property during the renovation that they were planning to build their own beach house beside it.

Now on the market for $14.8 million (£8.8 million) through William Pitt Sotheby’s International Realty, the house is a genuinely idyllic combination of space and warmth, not to mention creature comforts and legendary heritage. It’s hardly surprising that Frank Sciame and family, like the Hepburns before them, were utterly seduced by its Connecticut charm. (+1 860.304.2391, sothebysrealty.com)

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Homes and Interiors

RECREATE THE LOOK Inspired by Katharine Hepburn’s estate, we help you add a dash of New England beachfront charm to your home

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here’s just something about New England interior design – the clean, smooth lines, the creamy off-white hues, the hints of warm wooden panelling and huge windows which give rooms their light, airy appeal. But above all it’s the overwhelming sense of cosy minimalism, a perfect balance of uncluttered-yet-unsterile which unfailingly creates a sense of effortless refinement. The rooms abound with the impression that this is a level of graceful affluence which requires nothing (or, almost nothing) of the

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pretentious to make itself felt, but rather echoes with the notion that, though the components of the design may be simple, there’s certainly no lack of quality or luxury to be found.

The resurrected Connecticut estate which once belonged to Katharine Hepburn (above) is a prime example, with its spotless finish broken up by little touches of warmth – a wicker hamper here, a pine sideboard there – and filled with furniture of the highest quality that’s as luxurious as it is understated.

Never has so little said so much.

#1

#2

#7 #3

#4 #6

#5

be inspired by katharine hepburn’s former connecticut estate ‘New England chic at its effortless best’ #1 Petra large sofa, £1,399, Collins & Hayes (houseoffraser.co.uk) #2 Nickel & Croc leather floor lamp, £645, Alexander & Pearl (alexanderandpearl.co.uk) #3 Set of three ceramic vases, £21, The White Company (thewhitecompany.com) #4 Music Room Grand piano, from £75,750, Steinway (steinway.com) #5 Kosta Boda brick votive, £24, the Scandinavian Shop (scandinavianshop.co.uk) #6 Jute braided rug, £236, The White Company (thewhitecompany.com) #7 Shabby Chic willow dining table, £699, House of Fraser (houseoffraser.co.uk)

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jackson-stops.co.uk

Wilmslow An exquisite modern 4 bedroom family house with fabulous views sitting in 2 acres ● 2 reception rooms ● study ● playroom/snug ● 4 bedrooms ● 3 bathrooms ● outbuilding with gym, conservatory & garaging ● paddock ● stabling ● approximately 2 acres ● EPC – E

Guide Price: £1,595,000

People Property Places

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Prestbury An astounding high specification modern 6 bedroom family house with leisure suite & staff flat ● 4 reception rooms ● study ● wine store ● 6 bedrooms (all en suite) ● laundry ● leisure suite with pool, Jacuzzi, day room & gym ● 2 bed staff flat ● garaging ● just over 1/2 an acre ● EPC - C

Guide Price: £4,150,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

jackson-stops.co.uk

Prestbury A grand 5 bedroom house with beautiful southerly views built in the Georgian vernacular ● ●

3 reception rooms ● study ● cinema room ● conservatory garaging ● approximately 2 acres ● EPC – D

Guide Price: £2,550,000

People Property Places

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5 bedrooms (all en suite)

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Alderley Edge A wisteria-adorned south-facing Arts & Crafts family house with breathtaking far-reaching views over the Cheshire Plain ● ●

3 reception rooms ● media room ● laundry ● 5 bedrooms ● 5 bathrooms ● garage extensive gardens ● EPC – D

Guide Price: £1,900,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

jackson-stops.co.uk

Wilmslow The most stunning eco barn conversion on the edge of Wilmslow ●

3 reception rooms ● 4 bedrooms ● 3 bathrooms ● option to purchase approx 3/4 of an acre to the rear

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EPC – A

Guide Price: £975,000

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Wilmslow An immaculately presented spacious family house sitting in a quiet enclave within Wilmslow ●

2 reception rooms ● study ● conservatory ● breakfast room ● 4 bedrooms ● 3 bath/shower rooms ● garaging

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EPC – D

Guide Price: £849,995

People Property Places

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

The Cottage

Smallwood A beautifully situated and generously proportioned family house with separate cottage ●

3 reception rooms ● study ● 4 bedrooms ● 4 bath/shower rooms ● games room ● detached 2 bedroom

cottage ● garage ● paddock ● approximately 3.63 acres ● EPC – D

Guide Price: £845,000

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Combs, High Peak A delightful stone farm house with truly breathtaking views over the Peak District ●

2 reception rooms ● study ● breakfast room ● 4 bedrooms ● 2 bathrooms ● garaging ● paddock

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just over 5 1/2 acres ● EPC – E

Guide Price: £885,000

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Wilmslow 01625 540 340 wilmslow@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

People Property Places

jackson-stops.co.uk

Ashley

Hale

A stunning Mediterranean style residence in fabulous grounds

A luxurious detached house in an exclusive gated development

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2 reception rooms ● study ● 4 bedrooms (3 en suite) ● 1 bed

annexe

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garaging ● tennis court ● approx 5.5 acres ● EPC – D

Guide Price £1,850,000

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2 reception rooms ● study ● garden room ● 5 bedrooms

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3 bathrooms ● garaging ● EPC – D

Guide Price £1,725,000

Hale

Hale Barns

An impressive home adjacent to open countryside

An elegant 21st Century mansion

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2 reception rooms ● study ● 5/6 bedrooms ● 4 bathrooms

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4 reception rooms ● media room ● study ● gym ● 5 bedrooms

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garaging ● just under 1/3 of an acre ● EPC – D

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6 bathrooms ● garaging ● EPC – B

Offers in the region of £850,000

People Property Places

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Guide Price £2,895,000

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Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

Bowdon

Bowdon

An immaculate house with superb accommodation

A magnificent family house adjacent to The Devisdale

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4 reception rooms ● study ● games room ● 6 bedrooms

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3 reception rooms ● cinema ● study ● 6 bedrooms

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5 bathrooms ● garaging ● just over 1/4 of an acre ● EPC – C

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5 bathrooms ● gym ● garaging ● 2/3 of an acre ● EPC – C

Guide Price £1,895,000

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Guide Price £3,250,000

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Hale

Mere

A unique period property with a southerly aspect

A skilfully extended home with views over the 16th fairway

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2 reception rooms ● morning room ● study ● 5 bedrooms

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3 reception rooms ● study ● cinema ● 5 bedrooms

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2 bathrooms ● garaging ● just over 1/4 of an acre ● EPC – D

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4 bathrooms ● garaging ● EPC – D

Guide Price £1,150,000

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Guide Price £1,475,000

Hale 0161 928 8881 hale@jackson-stops.co.uk Local & National reach through a network of London & Regional offices

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People Property Places

10094 Stretton Green DPS CL 210x297 wc300614.qxp_Layout 1 03/07/2014 15:58 Page 1

NE w luxury HOMES OFFERING GOLF COURSES, D R I V I N G R A N G E A N D H E A LT H S PA FA C I L I T I E S

10094

10094 Stretton Green DPS CL 210x297 wc300614.qxp_Layout 1 03/07/2014 15:58 Page 2

FIRST phase of homes sold out, second phase now available Whether you’re teeing off on Carden Park’s Championship Course designed by Jack Nicklaus, or being pampered to a tee in their sumptuous spa, life at Stretton Green is country living like no other. Prices from £775,000 to £1,250,000. Call today to appreciate what this prestigious development has to offer.

Stretton Hall Lane, Chester, Cheshire SY14 7HS. View: strettongreen.co.uk Call: 01829 458 977

Homes and Interiors

INSPIRATION

Let there be light Natalie Cox meets lighting visionary Eva Menz, whose bespoke chandelier has become One Hyde Park’s crowning glory

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va Menz has been taking the world of bespoke lighting to new heights since she opened her London studio six years ago. Since then, her sculptural chandeliers have adorned many a stylish ceiling and she has completed more than 50 major projects around the world, leaving a trail of glamour and intrigue from Hyde Park to Hong Kong.

Munich-born Menz studied at London’s prestigious Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design to hone her talent. It was here that she began to experiment with materials and scale, really pushing the boundaries of what the word ‘chandelier’ could define.

Not content with glass alone, Menz has used crystal, ceramics, metal and wood in her work, along with more unconventional materials such as silver-thread embroidery, rare albino peacock feathers and ice. Menz experiments whilst simultaneously envisaging the space she is creating for, ensuring that her work complements the environment in which it will hang. She is acclaimed for her visual sensitivity, and by exploring all materials and scales to best suit the context, creating truly remarkable pieces.

Her unique creations demand a suitably chic home, where they can be the centrepiece of an innovative and striking design aesthetic. The recently opened One Hyde Park, one of London’s most exclusive residential developments, is a prime example. The inspiration for the delicate yet dramatic Causing a 

opposite: All Shades of Black; from top: Singing Water (close-up shot); Singing Water; spread your wings

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Homes and Interiors

INSPIRATION

Storm in the lobby came from an autumnal gust of wind through the leaves in Hyde Park, which has translated into over 6,500 pieces of hand-formed abstract leaf patterns, adorned with 10-karat gold.

Also in Menz’s portfolio is Up in the Clouds, a work she installed in the spa of the Ritz Carlton Hong Kong.

Hundreds of hand-crafted porcelain shells hang floating, complemented by further shells trailing the length of a wall. And then there is the 400 hand-folded origami cranes, each with a metre wingspan, suspended above the pool at the G hotel in Galway, Ireland.

Menz also creates works for private homes and is able to build on a

‘Not content with glass, Menz has used materials such as silver-thread embroidery, albino peacock feathers and ice’ smaller scale without losing any of the beauty and decadence her creations conjure. Those interested in working together on a project are invited to Menz’s Holland Park 

above: Causing a Storm; right: La Belle Époque

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advert

Homes and Interiors

INSPIRATION

‘Menz is expanding to new heights with designing architectural sculptures and public installations’ studio for a design consultation.

With projects taking between three to 12 months to complete, those wishing to own one of Menz’s

bespoke creations must contain their excitement, though they can be safe in the knowledge that she will not disappoint.

While continuing to create bespoke chandeliers and interior installations for prestigious residential projects such as One Hyde Park, Menz is expanding to new heights with designing architectural sculptures and public installations.

Intuitive artisitic interpretation, dedication to the finest in handmade qualities and careful consideration to the context of a piece are Menz’s signature hallmarks which put her in a class of her own.

above and right: Morning Dew

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advert

Intoto Kitchens provides a bespoke service creating the perfect kitchen for every client.

As one of the World’s leading quality kitchen brands and part of the most established fitted kitchen businesses in the UK, we mix German quality and craftsmanship with our specialist design service.

Created specifically for you and your lifestyle, each of our kitchens is designed, produced and professionally installed by our experienced Installation team and project managers, whilst being supported by our KBSA Consumer Care Protection Insurance.

Appointed as a Neff Master Partner & Exclusive Brand Partner, our clients benefit from exclusive products and additional savings across leading appliances, worktops & accessories.

Providing a free Survey and Design service to clients, we also work

closely with Architects, Designers and Developers form an early stage, to deliver the perfect balance in kitchen living spaces across the Cheshire and the North West.

If you’re looking for inspiration and would like to see how an Intoto kitchen might look in your home, visit our showroom to discuss your ideas and plans, or contact us for a free survey and design consultation.

SUMMER SALE

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Keeping your

dreams afloat Release the reality with your equity.

For many people reaching retirement, financial affairs are a matter for the head rather than the heart. At this juncture in life, there can be a daunting tide of uncertainty due to an impending reduction in lifestyle. We have all heard the phrase ‘asset rich, but cash poor’.

So how can one launch their retirement aspirations, rather than seeing them just drift away?

Well, your biggest asset will invariably be your property and according to the Land Registry figures average house prices in Cheshire East rose 4.9% over the past year. People are starting to see their main residence as their pension pot, rather than using the constrained effect of pensions and annuities.

So how can Equity Release Supermarket help?

Many people have paid a mortgage during their lives and have experience of managing debt. However, in retirement the mainstream mortgage companies tend to shy away from lending. Why should this be? Afterall, this silversurfer generation have better credit, greater equity in their property and best of all a fixed income for life!

Equity release potentially provides a solution to all these issues.

By releasing equity from your property, the money can be used to cover anything you desire. The following examples illustrate the diversity of why people in retirement are releasing equity from their property to enjoy their retirement.

“ The website has a wealth of information & customer service is outstanding ” Equity release doesn’t necessarily have to be for your own benefit. We are helping more parents make cash gifts by releasing equity and passing this onto their children. This can assist with helping them buy their first home, or even build an extension when those first grandchildren come along!

Holidays are a favourite leisure pursuit in retirement, with spending on worldwide cruises, purchasing a 2nd home abroad and travelling to sunnier climes. Afterall, retirement is the longest holiday of your life!

By selecting a drawdown equity release plan, you can take money in smaller amounts to cover annual trips, rather than all in one lump sum.

For many with a good disposable income, we have access to interest only lifetime mortgages, where the interest, or even capital and interest can be repaid, thus personally managing your future balance and more importantly your beneficiaries inheritance.

Inheritance tax and long term care fees planning are also areas that equity release can help with especially for those with a large estate and looking mitigate their potential tax bills.

Here at Cheshire based Equity Release Supermarket, we specialise in assisting the over 55’s in making their retirement aspiring and fulfilling.

We understand the varied financial requirements of this age group and have helped 1000’s of people attain their retirement goals in the process.

We deal with such clients on a daily basis and tailor retirement plans to suit. Being independent helps, as we can deal with the products and companies from the whole of the equity release market including brand names such as Aviva, Just Retirement, LV=.

We are fully regulated by the FCA and are members of the Equity Release Council, thus providing protection and the peace of mind in knowing you are dealing with authorised specialists.

Case Study: Gifting to children Peter and Janet are both 66 and have a daughter who needs a sizable deposit to secure the purchase of her first home. She has asked her parents whether they could help and gift her the £30,000 required.

Following independent advice they applied for the Aviva Flexible Lifetime Mortgage and raised £30,000 at a fixed rate of 5.71% (5.83% APR). Their daughter has offered to repay 10%pa with no penalty over the next 16 years to fully repay the Aviva scheme. All the family are pleased with the outcome with the flexibility of helping her realise her dreams.

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Mark Gregory Founder

The CHESHIRE Magazine | Promotion

To benefit from a free no obligation initial consultation, please call 0800 783 9652 or email mark@equityreleasesupermarket.co.uk for further details on our range of services.

www.equityreleasesupermarket.co.uk These are lifetime mortgages and home reversion plans. To understand their features and risks, ask for a personalised illustration. There will be a fee for mortgage advice.This will depend upon your circumstances, but we estimate that it will be ÂŁ895.

Equity Release Supermarket Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority. FCA registered no. 584063 2

Adderley: A resid ence that inhabits you

Once you’ve seen Adderley, you will find it occupies your thoughts like no other.

Such grace in such space is all too rare. For this residence has been created as a celebration of grand living. Its statement entrance. The capacious rooms for entertaining. The five bedroom suites, off-the-charts de luxe. The pool, the spa, the grounds, the vista and exquisite finishings at every turn.

And beyond the gates: the rarefied environs of the finest par t of Wilmslow. However : there is just one Adderley. We recommend you visit immediately.

For more information about Adderley, Wilmslow, Cheshire call 01942 263485 or visit us at www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Eventus Properties Ltd Oakland House, 21 Hope Carr Road, Leigh, Lancashire, WN7 3ET T. 01942 263485 E. info@eventusproperties.co.uk www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Cheshire Mag Full Page_Layout 1 21/05/2014 10:35 Page 1

Casa Tessuti T H E H O U S E of F A B R I C S and H O M E F U R N I S H I N G S

UP TO

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Homes and Interiors

feature

Avant-gardening As the RHS Flower Show returns to Tatton’s deer park this month, we take a closer look at the finalists in the eagerly anticipated Young Designer of the Year award

The Sky’s the Limit

by Sam Ovens Sam’s love of the outdoors and inspiration for a career in garden design comes from growing up on the family working farm in Cornwall, surrounded by plants and animals.

Combining this experience and way of life with a passion for design, led him to study garden design at Falmouth University.

He is no stranger to award-winning gardens however, as in 2011 Sam and fellow student Oliver Ramsey designed and constructed their first show garden at the RHS Hampton Court Palace Flower Show as part of their studies, and were awarded a coveted silver medal.

After completing his studies and travelling to see the gardens of the

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world, Sam has set up his own landscape and garden design practice, Sam Ovens Landscapes, focusing on environmentally sustainable design and horticulture.

His inspiration comes ‘from both the natural and the man-made to create spaces with exciting juxtapositions between the wild and the structured.’

Heavily influenced by Sam’s ethos of viewing things differently, his RHS Tatton show garden design is multistorey, which allows every square inch of ground to be planted. He describes it as ‘a garden which connects people with plants and wildlife, and reminds us how precious our outdoor space is.

It is designed to make people stop, think, and see that there are other ways of doing things.’

WorkOUT

Prehistoric Modernism

by Alex Schofield Whilst studying business and politics at Lausanne University, Alex realised his true passion for gardens and made a bold move to come to London and study garden design at Hampton Court Palace. He is currently continuing his studies in Landscape Architecture in Geneva.

‘My main focus in garden design is the plants’, Alex explains. ‘For me, they take centre stage and are the most important part of our living space as there is a tendency to build over nature instead of working with it.’ This belief is reflected in his show garden which is two-thirds planting.

‘Total immersion is what I like most about gardens, to be caught in a moment that lasts a lifetime.’

Alex’s RHS Tatton show garden is all about sun-worshipping. A path leads to a two-levelled lounge deck surrounded by hot coloured perspex screening and posts with various grasses flowing around a host of solid structures.

by Clare Broadbent Clare is based in Manchester but is currently studying for a Masters in Landscape Architecture at the University of Sheffield. Her RHS Tatton WorkOUT garden is an innovative approach ‘to encourage daily use of outdoor space and combines the mental and physical benefits received from exercise with the benefits from being outside.’

The basis for this is a relaxing water garden that creates a therapeutic environment to facilitate exercise. The idea is to encourage people to enjoy the outdoors whilst getting fit and to provide a sanctuary for water wildlife.

‘A wide range of exercise is offered within this small space, with features such as the Archimedes screw that offers an avant-garde interpretation of an ancient technology as exercise.

Screws have been used to both provide exercise opportunities and for essential aeration to the pond’s ecosystem.’

RHS Flower Show Tatton Park 23 – 27 July (rhs.org.uk/tatton)

LEFT: A VISUAL BY Sam Ovens; TOP: GARDEN DESIGN BY Alex Schofield; ABOVE: GARDEN DESIGN BY Clare Broadbent

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Homes and Interiors

feature

Fairytales and myths

Alongside gardens based on the Four Elements, ever-popular Ladies Day and the fabulous local food and drink, the next generation of gardeners are also playing an important part in the show.

School Gardens, in association with the Winsford Education Partnership, will include creations by the garden designers as Primary and Secondary schools create amazing 3x3m gardens inspired by pupils’ favourite book or story.

These magical displays of many childhood favourites are sure to transport adults and children alike to a world of rabbit holes, caterpillars and yellow brick roads.

Smallwood Church of England Primary School in Cheshire, for example, will be showcasing Edith Nesbit’s classic the Railway Children, while Croft Primary School in Warrington’s top pick The Magic Faraway Tree is sure to entice the most mischievous of visitors.

Then there’s a glimpse into life under the sea courtesy of Whirley Primary School’s garden (inspired by

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The Little Mermaid), before being brought back to the surface with Dowson Primary School in Hyde’s interpretation of the whimsical Chitty Chitty Bang Bang.

In addition to these and many more, there will also be a celebratory competition capturing the carnival theme of this year’s RHS Flower Show Tatton Park. The Carnival Container Growing Competition will see local schools provide wonderful floral displays in carnival inspired containers, which will then be judged by visitors to the Show through a public vote.

DON’T MISS: GREAT BRITISH ALLOTMENTS A wonderful collection of commercial and community allotments, each with their individual take on the ‘grow your own’ lifestyle, including an exhibit from Manchester School of Art which displays crafted produce based on themes form allotment village shows.

The award-winning nursery Pennard Plants will also be exhibiting their edible garden based on a monastic garden, showing how edible plants can be used to create a garden which can give a bountiful supply of fruit and vegetables alongside medicinal and culinary herbs.

When your hom e is part of who you are For a certain type of person, their home defines them.

It plays a fundamental part in their contentment with life. If that sounds like you, we should meet.

Because at Eventus we understand you want your residence to be the sum of a thousand extraordinary parts. Where every room makes a statement. Every space exudes style and grace.

And every detail - from light switches and skirting boards to the pool tiles and landscaping - has been considered and finessed.

That’s why Eventus exists. To design, build and deliver residences that are as extraordinary as their owners.

For more information about Eventus call 01942 263485 or visit us at www.eventusproperties.co.uk

Eventus Properties Ltd Oakland House, 21 Hope Carr Road, Leigh, Lancashire, WN7 3ET T. 01942 263485 E. info@eventusproperties.co.uk www.eventusproperties.co.uk

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06/03/2014 11:21

Endless holidays and weekend getaways are closer than you think…

Exclusive new holiday homes minutes from Abersoch Within 2-hours’ drive you’ll arrive at The Warren’s gates. Opening onto a world that is the ultimate in exclusivity and opulence.

The Warren’s beautifully appointed chalets are a truly luxurious home-from-home. And The Warren’s superior facilities offer everything you and your family need to enjoy perfect holidays and weekend breaks away together. From sports and activities, to leisure and dining, there’s something to suit all tastes.

“When you go for just a weekend it’s really like going on a holiday and when you get back to work on the Monday it feels like you’ve been away for a whole week, it’s so relaxing.”

The Warren’s latest development of just 6 stunning, fully-fitted chalets is selling fast. And with prices for these and our other chalets ranging from £150,000 - £450,000, your dream of escaping to an idyllic hideaway is more affordable than you think. To avoid disappointment, please arrange your VIP viewing today.

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• Superior sports, activity, leisure, and dining facilities • Heated swimming pools, tennis courts and multi-purpose sports hall • Private beach, boat launch ramp and helicopter landing available • Exclusive social events in a prestigious holiday home environment • A sensational setting with breathtaking coastal and rural views • 24-hour gated security with swipe entry access

Opportunities are limited, so please call today on

01758 649244 or to register your interest simply visit

www.haulfrynholidayhomes.co.uk/cm1 The Warren, Abersoch, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 7AA

THE WARREN Holiday Resort, Abersoch

02/05/2014 15:09

Homes and Interiors

LOCAL PROPERTY

Dairy House Farm Brereton Park, Brereton

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airy House Farm is an elegant period country house, with wisteria adorned cream rendered elevations, enjoying a south-facing aspect overlooking the beautiful pastoral backdrop of Brereton Hall parkland. The stunning views are as much a feature of this house as the classically proportioned rooms and delightful period features. The house sits centrally within its stunning landscaped gardens, with sweeping lawns, tree-lined avenues and formal planted areas. The grounds are encompassed by extensive paddock land and ideal for equestrian buyers.

The elegant exterior is only magnified by the interior, with a charming mix of period features and large light rooms, which have recently been professionally decorated to a high standard. The ground floor consists of four reception rooms, two of which enjoy the front elevation and two the rear views. Each room has its own

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character, with an abundance of exposed beams, oak floors, solid oak latch doors and log burning stoves.

The kitchen has cream painted units with wooden work surfaces, Belfast sink, a four oven Aga and slate floor.

This impressive room is open-plan to the snug which, in turn, is open to the morning/breakfast room, with French doors to the rear gardens.

The drawing room also enjoys the rear views, while the sitting and drawing rooms are interconnected, providing a large entertaining space with wide-boarded oak floor, log burning stove, beams and French doors to the front gardens. The first floor has an impressive master suite, with dressing room and large en suite shower room, with two further double bedrooms and family bathroom. The top floor has three further double bedrooms and bathroom, all of which are beautifully appointed.

Brereton, Guide Price ÂŁ1.75m Jackson-Stops & Staff (01625 540340)

The Barns School Lane, Henbury

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his 9,000 square foot period barn comes with planning permission for conversion into a five bedroom family house and leisure complex, though The Barns are currently undeveloped and are constructed of attractive period mellow Cheshire brick barns, surmounted by a stone and slate roof.

Located on a small and quiet country lane in the pretty and rural village of

Henbury, the property boasts wonderful rural views of the finest Cheshire farmland. The property is very well situated for the prestigious villages of Alderley Edge and Prestbury, and the town of Wilmslow, all of which are renowned for their shops, restaurants and schools. The Barns really do have ‘the best of both worlds’.

Henbury, Guide Price £850,000 Jackson-Stops & Staff (01625 540340)

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Homes and Interiors

overseas property

Cherub House barbados

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art of the Royal Westmoreland Estate, the opulent Cherub House offers magnificent views, designer living and fabulous outdoor spaces making it a real gem of an investment opportunity.

The main villa boasts stunning views down the championship golf

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course and out towards the West Coast and Caribbean Sea as well as a generous pool, terraces, outdoor dining and lush tropical gardens.

The ground floor accommodation offers stylish living and dining areas, including a bespoke designer kitchen with integrated appliances and a

Bose stereo system. On the first floor are the principal master suites, both with verandas offering outdoor space and spectacular views.

Cherub House also boasts a guest cottage featuring two double bedrooms with ensuite facilities, kitchen and lounge areas as well as its own private entrance.

All bedrooms come eqipped with full air-conditioning and there are ceiling fans throughout both the main house and guest cottage.

The property has been furnished to the exacting standards of the owners and benefits from all the facilities of the Royal Westmoreland Estate including golf, clubhouse

‘Cherub House also boasts a guest cottage and two double bedrooms with ensuite facilities’ eating and drinking, beach, spa, concierge and kids’ club.

The Cherub House, including guest cottage, is on the market for $3.95 million For all enquiries, please visit altmanbarbados.com (0808 120 2364)

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Homes and Interiors

luxury overseas property in honour of our great outdoors issue, we bring you wide open spaces and lashings of fresh air from across the globe

california

#1 Avalon Ranch, Calabasas The property features a clay tennis court which tennis dignitaries from around the world have come to visit and play on, including Jack Kramer. Avalon Ranch is a privately gated 90 acre equestrian estate nestled in a private valley. The compound includes a 7,500 sq ft main house, an expansive guest house and additional two bedroom guest house. In addition to the tennis court, Avalon Ranch also benefits from a pool and spa, pool pavilion with fireplace and fruit orchard.

On the market for $14.9 million through Ewing & Associates Sotheby’s International Realty; 001 818 486 1763 (danaandjeffluxuryhomes. com; avalon-ranch.com)

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2

Saint Barthélemy

#2 Villa Thalie, St Barth

Set directly on the beautiful white sand beach of Lorient, this plot provides the opportunity to tear down the existing structures and replace them with a glorious new custom-built villa. Lorient Beach is truly one of the hidden gems of St Barth as it has few private homes and those lucky enough to own one rarely let them out of the family.

On the market for €8.51 million through St Barth Properties (stbarthrealestate.com) and Sotheby’s International Realty 011 590 590 29 75 05 (sothebysrealty-stbarth.com)

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Homes and Interiors

luxury overseas property

3

croatia

#3 Orebić, Pelješac Peninsula A sea-front five bedroom Captain’s house built in the 18th century with views overlooking the island of Korcula and the sea. The house was completely renovated in 2007, including all floors, interior walls, beams and roof. This lovely property spreads over four levels and is surrounded at the front with with beautiful gardens and stone paved terraces.

On the market for €2.5m through Savills 020 7016 3740 (savills.co.uk)

France

#4 Can Rigall

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A mountain retreat nestled in the Eastern Pyrenees with dramatic, breath-taking views, close to the Mediterranean. The estate is almost entirely self-sufficient and consists of a large renovated farmhouse plus two further houses, set on 350 acres (142 hectares) of rolling alpine pasture and forestry land, 800m above sea level, with potential for further development.

On the market for €2,210,000 through Savills 020 7016 3740 (savills.co.uk)

Miami

#5 Ritz-Carlton Residences Located on seven acres in a quiet corner of Miami Beach on the shores of Surprise Lake, the residences bring together renowned Italian architect and designer Piero Lissoni’s modernist vision with the legendary service of The Ritz-Carlton to redefine Miami modern living.

This expansive, amenity-rich and LEED-certified property will feature gardens, pools, entertainment spaces and a private marina for 111 condominium residences and 15 villas. The one- to four-bedroom homes range in size from 1,700 to over 10,000 square feet, in a selection of over 60 floor plans, with striking interiors also custom-designed by Lissoni.

The Residences are priced from $2 million to $25 million through ONE Sotheby’s International Realty 001 888 919 9153 (onesothebysrealty.com; theresidencesmiamibeach.com)

IBIZA

#7 Roca Llisa This bright and modern villa is located in Roca Llisa, a luxury-urbanisation near Ibiza Town and Golf Camp with fantastic views across the sea and countryside. The house enjoys total privacy and although it has the benefits of being a secure urbanisation the house is very private. The villa is surrounded by typical Mediterranean flora, such as pines, bougainvillea, palm trees and cactuses. The property features a patio with a swimming pool, as well as ample terraces and chill-out areas.

On the market for €4,500,000 through Savills 020 7016 3740 (savills.co.uk)

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GREECE

#8 Panorama Diamond, Athens This luxurious single family home is located at the top of Panorama, Voula, in the southern suburbs of Athens. It offers exceptional sea and mountain views. The property is custom designed using high quality materials and decorated with Italian furniture. Completed in 2006, this property has all the state-of-the-art features of a luxury home including high-tech phone centre, alarm system and computer network. It also features in-floor heating controlled on each floor and central A/C temperature control in every room.

On the market for $2.86m through Greece Sotheby’s International Realty 0030 695 168 8080 (sothebysrealty.gr)

France

#6 Nice

This three bedroom apartment in a restored mansion in Mont Boron is in a residential area in the south eastern part of Nice. The apartment also has an office, garage and cellar and views across Cap Ferrat and Villefranche.

On the market for €2.2m through Savills 020 7016 3740 (savills.co.uk)

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t: 01704 544 222 e: info@portraitpools.com w: portraitpools.com

Homes and Interiors

BEAUTIFUL THINGS

PEEKABOO FENDI, WE SEE YOU Fendi Casa has been designing exquisite furniture since 1989, bringing all the tradition, innovation and elegant taste associated with the Italian fashion house beyond your wardrobe and into your living room. Specialising in indulgent furs, precious skins and plush fabrics, Fendi Casa’s prêt-à-porter line is renowned the world over, also offering signature furnishings, and creating spaces for hotels and private residences, including luxury yachts and jets, fulfilling each brief to the highest specification. Fendi’s casa es tu casa, naturally. (fendi.com) The Carlyle Residences by Fendi Casa, Los Angeles

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THE SEASON 2014

JULY • Ladies & Gents Evening • Corbettsports City Plate Day

Friday 11th Saturday 12th

AUGUST

Tatts from £30* County from £38* Hospitality from £75*(+VAT)

01244 304 610

chester-races.com

• MBNA Family Fun Day • Stella Artois Summer Festival • Ladies Day

Sunday 3rd Saturday 16th Saturday 30th

SEPTEMBER • Autumn Festival • Betfair Autumn Festival • chesterBET Season Finale

Friday 12th Saturday 13th Saturday 27th

*Price subject to booking and postage fees.

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01/07/2014 16:23