CITY MAGAZINE JUNE 2010 by Runwild Media Group

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contents feature

interview feature

10 The Maverick Monsieur

Oliver Balcazar meets chef supreme Raymond Blanc

13 Concrete Jungle Claire Saunders takes a look at the Elephant Parade

comment 22 One Hard Question

The

MAVERICK MONSIEUR Inspired by the idyllic home cooking of his youth, Raymond Blanc brings authentic French flavour to the heart of Maison Blanc. Oliver Balcazar meets the chef supreme to learn why wholesomeness and simplicity embodies real gastronomy

aymond Blanc is possibly the most humble celebrity chef ever to have cracked an egg on British television. The Michelin-starred Frenchman, honoured with an OBE in 2007, is completely self-taught and “arrived in Britain with absolutely nothing” to become one of the most revered chefs in the country. He is still recovering from his fall at his Oxfordshire home in February, where the lively 60-year-old broke his leg in three places. “I’m from good stock,” proclaims Blanc, who has used the time convalescing to finish two books, one to accompany his celebrated BBC show Kitchen Secrets, broadcast earlier this year. Blanc is unashamedly a mummy’s boy, admitting the inspiration for his success is the formidable Maman Blanc, still “the greatest cook I know!” It was she who instilled in Blanc the importance of cooking with fresh, local and seasonal produce to create a meal of true quality and love. “My mother only taught my sisters to cook, as was the way in most French families, but I learned so much by acting as her dogsbody – cutting, chopping and peeling. She spent her whole life cooking simple local dishes full of flavour for our family. The dinner table was the centre of the house – there would be arguments, but also tremendous closeness and conviviality.” It’s nostalgia for his rural French childhood, spent potting vegetables with his siblings in the family garden in Besançon near Dijon, and gathered round his mother’s stove, which makes the Brasserie Blanc menu so simple, yet strikingly evocative. “There are marvellous restaurants in the City, but there’s a huge demand now for the kind of meals where the price isn’t going to make you fall off your seat with a heart attack, “It’s not trying to be like a ‘petit Manoir’, but the culture is the same – creating a place to celebrate oneself and to celebrate food. The Brasserie is really adding another layer of quality to the City. The simple, high-quality food comes as close as possible to the meals that my mother prepared for me at home in Besançon, and at a price that encourages you to visit us regularly.”

interiors

26 When is Enough Too Much? Gain life perspective

36 Looking for a Fight? Get hooked on the thrilling Bentley Continental GT Supersports

Blanc is unashamedly a mummy’s boy, admitting the inspiration for his success is the formidable Maman Blanc... She spent her whole life cooking simple local dishes full of flavour for our family He affectionately describes the first time he sampled the nation’s beloved fish and chips, and his sheer disbelief when presented with a breaded square fish fillet drowned in mulled vinegar. “I come from France where a fish is a fish! Food was class-led in the UK – working class people would never think of going to a French restaurant”. After this disappointing taste of popular English cuisine, one wonders if Blanc ever felt compelled to improve the public’s perception of food à la Jamie Oliver? “I didn’t come to England to conquer. I was never a reborn Napoleon. I’ve always had the greatest respect and admiration for English culinary heritage and tradition. I just wanted to add the unique quality I know and love.” n Brasserie Blanc, 60 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 8HP. Email city@brasserieblanc.com or call 0207 710 9440 to make a reservation

Mark Artus, branding expert extraordinaire

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The son of a working class family, the chef came to Britain as “a culinary exile” after being punched in the jaw by a chef who took unkindly to Blanc’s (then a mere waiter) suggestions for improving his dish. In 1977 Blanc risked everything to start his own restaurant, Les Quat’ Saisons, in Oxford alongside his first wife Jenny. They put together all their meagre savings and mortgaged their house to raise the cash. “That is how most young people start their business, risking everything in order to achieve their dream.” “Our kitchen was a humble place on the wrong side of the city on the wrong side of the road, within a dreary concrete shopping precinct between a ladies underwear shop and Oxfam. We bought second-hand equipment, decorated the restaurant with simple red and white tablecloths, and a plastic cockerel outside. Cheap maybe, but also charming and very French!” Les Quat’ Saisons was an overnight success, winning him Egon Ronay Restaurant of the Year, prestigious Michelin stars and a host of other distinctions. Now relocated to a sumptuous small country house in Great Milton, and renamed Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons, the luxurious hotel and restaurant is thriving, as is his chain of Brasserie Blanc restaurants and a cookery school.

Fdetail ine

Josephine O’Donoghue talks to artist Dominic Murray about his career so far, artistic style and day-to-day inspirations

orking from homes in both England and Spain, Dominic Murray is a modern artist currently exhibiting his work at the Ingo Fincke Gallery in Battersea. Known for his realistic depiction of seemingly ‘uninteresting’ day-to-day objects, his work is striking in both detail and form. But he hasn’t always lived the life of a painter... Having said that he has always been an artist, it’s just that painting wasn’t his first career move. After leaving school at 18, he went travelling before finally falling into a job constructing costumes and props for film and television. Years later, he established his own freelance business employing people working for many West End theatres, the BBC, independent television companies, Disney, and various film companies. However, it wasn’t until 2004 that Dominic started to paint professionally full-time, as he was tired of the long hours of his work. “When I was a child at school I had been selling paintings, so I decided to concentrate solely on this area” he explains. “My mother said I had basically just gone full circle when I started to paint professionally.” Perhaps surprisingly (especially considering the level of detail in his painting) Dominic has no formal artistic training. “It’s a talent you’re born with, not really something someone can create” he argues when I ask about art school. “When I was young I was the cheapest child to keep entertained. A pencil and paper, and I would be quiet all day. “During my years working in the industry, many young hopefuls from art schools came to me looking for employment. There were some very talented youngsters, but there were also many who just weren’t talented, and I thought it a shame they were being encouraged to pursue a career in art, ” says Dominic. “I’m ‘self taught’ in the way that I have read many books and asked many questions on how to actually apply paint. That’s the tricky bit; if you can paint, you can paint, but you need to study how to realise it.” Certainly, Dominic has created something of a signature style for himself, citing clean lines, order and strong shape as the central elements of his work. “Painting realistically is something I find natural, though I do tend to hyper realise things to try and make them even more striking” he reveals. “I compose photo compositions, to use as the basis to

concierge

work from, and play with the colours and light to bring my own interpretation of the subject into the painting. I like to challenge myself technically and am always striving to improve my technique.” Flicking through the online gallery (www.ingofincke. com) many of Dominic’s pieces are a close look at everyday household objects – or as he puts it, “things a lot of people take for granted”. The paintings strive to bring people’s attention to the fine detail and thought that initially went into designing that object, or creating that thing in nature. “An OXO cube, a fork, a glass [...] or things found in nature like leaves [and] reflections,” Dominic says. “I draw attention to their intricacies. Light and shadow play a big part in my work; when I see the way light hits an object, or a person, or a view, that’s what inspires me.” However, Dominic is also careful not to box himself in, and become fixated on one particular style or technique. “I do have other styles of painting,” he reminds me. “The Goats are a prime example, and they have proved popular; I also paint landscapes and figurative work. They are painted in a much bolder style and give me a bit of a release from the more painstaking still life. I have many ideas on new things to try, it’s never boring.” A lifelong passion finally realised in full, Dominic indulges his enthusiasm and talent for art every day now. “I paint every day,” he says, obviously happy that he has now settled in his ideal working set-up. “I finish everything I have to do outside of work by lunchtime, and then devote the rest of the day to painting, seven days a week. My greatest ambition is to be able to earn enough money to continue painting until I can’t hold a brush anymore.” Although reluctant to commit to any solid future plans, Dominic is sure that he wants to “continue to paint and improve what I do”, which can only be good news for the Ingo Fincke Gallery, who happily receive his work here in London. “I have always said that the day I paint the perfect painting is the day I will stop. I doubt that day will ever come which is good as I wouldn’t really know what to do with myself if it happened. Painting is a very personal journey and a very satisfying one.” n For more information, visit www.dominicmurray.com

INGO FINCKE GALLERY “Ingo Fincke was suggested to me by a friend when I first started to paint professionally; they were a good choice and I consider them my London Agents,” says Dominic Murray. “Friendly from the start, enthusiastic and always loyal and trustworthy, they are always willing to try out all different styles of my work and different ideas – we have become friends. They always have a great selection of different artists’ work which keeps people coming in, and they have built up a loyal client base with their friendliness, honesty and professionalism.” For more information, visit Ingo Fincke gallery at 24 Battersea Rise, London SW11 1EE, call 020 7228 7966 or log on to www.ingofincke.com

42 Who wants to be a millionaire?

motoring

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Andrew Castle on Wimbledon

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Question:

Which is the more scary – a football hooligan in a pair of ripped jeans and a hoodie, or Vinnie Jones in a sharp suit?

54 Fine Detail

Answer:

VJ and the suit. While torn denims and a face-masking top is the standard uniform for many a young yob, there’s something infinitely more menacing about a tough guy wearing razor cut creases.

Artist Dominic Murray on his work

nd so it is with cars. A tricked up, turbocharged Subaru Impreza painted in team colours and spitting out flames on the overrun might be fun from behind the wheel, but it’s not something to be taken seriously. A Bentley Continental GT wearing a Supersports badge, on the other hand… The Continental GT is the closest Bentley has ever got to producing a car for the common man. At £126,500 it’s affordable in a way that the handmade Mulsanne (£220,000) is not. It’s even better value if it’s a couple of years old. Little wonder, then, that it’s the car of choice for every Premiership footballer, while his WAG loves the open-topped Continental GTC versions; especially if the alloys can be painted to match the lipstick-coloured, ruched leather interior. But the Supersports is a sophisticated thug. Underneath that cool, tailored exterior lurks an iron fist providing motoring with menaces. It started as an experimental project by a handful of Bentley boys who were intrigued to see how far they could go with the Continental. The answer is one hell of a long way. It has been made by engineers, for enthusiasts. The Supersports – the name, by the way, is inspired by the original ‘Le-Mans’ style two-seater from 1925 – is harder, more focused and far tougher than any other Continental. And it’s wonderful. One of the perks of this job is getting to drive a new car every week. You get to drive good ones, average ones and even some great cars. But at the end of the loan, giving them back is no real hardship, as you know something else will soon take its place. Very, very occasionally, though, giving a car back is hard. So it was with the Supersports. I’m still trying to convince myself that a two-seater street brawler with a thirst for fuel that would embarrass a dipsomaniac would be the perfect everyday car.

58 Interiors Explore the sun-drenched African plains

64 Fashion

Summer’s chicest swimwear

74 Location, Location, Location Concluding our series on Harley Street

corporate challenge 81 Overseas

regulars

The emotive summit of Mount Kilimanjaro

8 editor’s letter

63 fashion

connoisseur

28 personal finance

71 royal exchange

35 motoring

73 health & fitness

41 sport

97 travel

48 gadgets

113 food & drink

53 interiors

127 property

98 Gourmet Gijon Dominique Brady discovers the culinary delights of Gijón in Northern Spain

115 A Feast Fit for Kings Fine Scottish cuisine at Boisdale of Bishopsgate

contributors...

RUNWILD M

Editor-in-Chief Lesley Ellwood

Editor

Louisa Castle

Editorial Director Kate Harrison

Deputy Editor 1. Claire Adler is a London-based freelance journalist specialising in jewellery, watches and luxury brands. Her work has appeared in the Financial Times, The Sunday Times, The Guardian and Harrods magazine. 2. Jamie Carter is a freelance journalist

specialising in gadgets and technology. Jamie has written for the likes of T3, Home Cinema Choice and The Guardian as well as a number of websites.

3. David Kuo is one of the UK’s leading

commentators on money matters. He is a director at The Motley Fool as well as providing daily insight and financial news for BBC London’s Breakfast Show.

4. Sim Smith is a freelance journalist and

stylist based in London. A frequent contributor to prestigious publications, Sim has worked with ELLE Decoration, The Telegraph and The Financial Times.

5. Matthew Carter is a London-based 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.

Josephine O’Donoghue

Editorial Assistants Oliver Balcazar Penelope M Walsh

Fashion Editor Lucie Dodds

Senior Designer Hiren Chandarana

Production Manager Dan Hyde

Group Publishing Director Eren Ellwood

Project Manager Ella Kilgarriff

PR & Marketing Manager Rebecca Walton

Managing Director Giles Ellwood

6. Martin Bamford is one of the youngest and most successful financial planners in the UK. He runs his own firm of financial advisers – Informed Choice – and regularly contributes to various financial publications. 7. Josh Sims is a freelance writer and editor,

contributing to the likes of The Financial Times, The Times, Esquire, Wallpaper and CNBC. He lives in east London.

8. Clare Murray is founder and managing partner of specialist law firm, CM Murray LLP. Clare and her colleagues advise a wide range of companies, professional firms and senior individuals on employment, partnership and business immigration law issues.

16 Heron Quay, Canary Wharf London E14 4JB T: 020 7987 4320 F: 020 7005 0045 www.runwildmedia.com

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. take no responsibility for omissions or errors. We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters. All rights reserved.

Elephant Parade London 2010 See p.13 Runwild Media Group Publishers of: Canary Wharf magazine The City magazine, Vicinitee VENUE – The official magazine of The O2

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from the editor...

June

his month, we, like the City itself have been overrun with Elephants on Parade. The Elephas maximus have taken over in order to highlight the plight of the endangered Asian elephant, thanks to the charity, Elephant Family and some of Britain’s leading art and design luminaries, including the likes of Paul Smith, Lulu Guinness and Jack Vettriano.

Beyond that we also have plenty of none-elephant stories too. We speak to maverick chef Raymond Blanc about his new City restaurant, simple cooking and his inspiration, Maman Blanc (p.10). Travelling with food still on the mind, we head to Spain and go off the beaten track to Gijon for some overseas gastronomy (p.98) and a little closer to home in Dublin – a great city whether it’s business or pleasure (p.98).

Over the last one hundred years the elephant population has shrunk by over 90 per cent, from 250,000 to 25,000, placing this valuable species dangerously close to extinction. In fact, if current trends continue, the Asian elephant will cease to exist by 2050.

Our motoring editor, Matthew Carter, falls for The Bentley Continental GT Supersports (p.36) developing an affinity to Vinnie Jones as he does so and our sports correspondent Lee Brooks goes all tennis mad on us winning an exclusive interview with BBC correspondent Andrew Castle and picking his brains for Wimbledon winner predictions (p.42) as well as catching up with fiery Aussie, Pat Cash as he hits the grass this summer sporting season (p.45).

This is why such a high profile event, attracting a host of VIP supporters including Goldie Hawn and Joanna Lumley, is needed and will culminate in the party of the summer season as Henry Wyndham of Sotheby’s hosts the auction of these creative creatures, aiming to raise over £1million to benefit more than 15 UK conservation charities working in Asia. If you want to get involved or give an ellie a home, visit www.elephantparadelondon.org.

There’s beachwear for her (p.64), gadgets for everyone (p.48) and the latest in corporate challenges including the ultimate prize – who is best Canary Wharf or the City? Are you going to rise to the challenge?

The

Maverick Monsieur Inspired by the idyllic home cooking of his youth, Raymond Blanc brings authentic French flavour to the heart of Maison Blanc. Oliver Balcazar meets the chef supreme to learn why wholesomeness and simplicity embodies real gastronomy

interview

feature

art & culture

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Celebrating Mark Shandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s City-wide Elephant Parade project, Arabella Dickie follows the elephant trail to The Royal Exchange 13

f only the great walls of London’s Royal Exchange could speak. How wonderful it would be to hear of the iconic figures that have passed through its doors, or the historic events it has witnessed since its founding in 1565: from the Great Fire of London in 1666, to withstanding the bombs that flattened the capital during the Second World War, and providing centre stage for celebrations to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation in 1953. Yet I doubt the building’s founder, the well-travelled London merchant Sir Thomas Gresham, ever imagined that its four walls would one day be invaded by a herd of baby elephants. Well, four brightly coloured fibreglass elephants to be precise. The life-sized, hand-painted artworks form part of a collection of 260 model elephants that have taken up residence around London’s parks and major landmarks, including Parliament Square and Buckingham Palace, for the London Elephant Parade 2010. Billed as the capital’s largest-ever public art event, the innovative fundraising campaign – headed by conservationist Mark Shand – aims to raise awareness of the plight of the endangered Asian elephant. In just 100 years the population has shrunk from 250,000 to an estimated 25,000. 70% of those losses were in the last 10 years. As one of the most powerful landmarks in the City, and a iconic focal hub of social and commercial activity, the Royal Exchange was seen as the perfect location at which to showcase the elephants and promote the project. Shand’s charity, the Elephant Family, called upon leading art and design luminaries to pick up a paintbrush and decorate their tusked beast for the cause. And helping to transform the capital into an urban jungle were three of the Royal Exchange’s very own resident luxury fashion brands: Cartier, Paul Smith and Lulu Guinness. Paul Smith and Cartier were given the breathtaking backdrop of the Royal Exchange building against which to display their feats of creative genius, alongside Indian designer, Tarun Tahiliani, and London-based mixed media artist, Ben Shine. Shining a multicoloured spotlight on Shand’s charitable initiative is Paul Smith’s sitting elephant, which has been signed on the knee by the designer himself. The sculpture is playfully attired in bright pastel shades, mimicking the brand’s signature stripes that adorn the clothing rails of its Royal Exchange boutique. “The multi-stripe design is synonymous with me, and is full of optimism” remarked the designer, “so it seemed the natural design to use to support this extremely worthy cause.” The eye-catching sculpture guards the majestic Corinthianstyle entrance to the building, alongside Ben Shine’s sleek black Taxi Elephant. Fast becoming one of the most iconic designs of the Parade, Shine’s creation has been styled to resemble the quintessential London black cab, complete with chrome headlights fitted for the elephant’s eyes and a custombuilt orange taxi sign moulded onto its head.

Above: Paul Smith & his sitting elephant Right: Tarun Tahiliani’s Jewel-ele

art & culture

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In keeping with the campaign’s green credentials all of the sculptures have been made and transported in the most environmentally friendly way possible. Shine’s design even features an in-built solar panel to illuminate the taxi sign (no doubt bewildering the odd cab-hailing pedestrian come nightfall!) Inside the Royal Exchange the striking silhouette of the Cartier elephant stands under the vaulted glass atrium, like a sentinel overseeing the bustle of shoppers and diners. The design of the dramatic red and gold sculpture, which features traditional Indian-style elephant dressing, was inspired by the iconic Cartier red jewellery box. A cinematic legend (having appeared in the hands of Marilyn Monroe in Billy Wilder’s 1959 classic Some Like It Hot) the distinctive box, with its Morocco leather covering, bevelled corners, and gold lace border, has harboured Cartier creations for decades and built a name for itself as the ultimate symbol of French luxury. No doubt Arnaud Bamberger, the Managing Director of Cartier UK and a self-professed “avid supporter” of Mark Shand’s charitable cause, was only too aware of the magnetic pull the design would have on passing fashion aficionados.

Across the courtyard, our eye is instantly drawn to the bedazzling mirrored beast that is Tarun Tahiliani’s Jewel-ele. Perfectly complimenting the gleaming showpieces that bedeck the nearby windows of De Beers, Bulgari and Tiffany & Co., the elephant sculpture has been painstakingly designed using over 3,000 jewels, including pearl and gold hemispheres as well as bespoke pieces created specifically for the project. A miniature version of the elephant was first designed in India and then shipped to the UK, where it took a team of three designers over two weeks to complete the full-sized model. A supporter of the Elephant Family charity for several years, Tahiliani was one of the first designers to jump on board for the Elephant Parade event.

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Other notable exhibits stampeding across the capital for the Elephant Parade include Sir Terence Conran’s blue patchwork pachyderm and the aforementioned quirky Kissed by Lulu Guinness sculpture, which is emblazoned with the designers trademark lipstick motifs. “She looks as though she’s been attacked in a kissing frenzy,” said Guinness of her elephant. “I hope people walk all the way around it, to get the full effect of the sculpture. I want people to think she’s been smothered in kisses, like a form of adoration.” Spreading the love for the Asian elephant is of course the objective for Mark Shand, who hopes to raise over £1million for conservation charities when all 260 elephant models are herded together and auctioned off at Sotheby’s in July. So before the Royal Exchange’s resident beasts pack up their trunks for good, why not take a trip to witness them in all their brightly painted glory? You honestly couldn’t imagine a more spectacular sight in such aweinspiring surroundings. No doubt Sir Thomas Gresham would have been thrilled that after so many centuries, the building is still involved in truly historical events. n For more information, visit www.theroyalexchange.com

Above: Paul A. Young Royal Exchange-based chocolatier, Paul A. Young, is also supporting the fund raising initiative with a range of individually handdecorated elephants, made from 70% Valrhona chocolate Below: Kissed by Lulu Guinness

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26/05/10 12:44:18

Elephant

THE

P A R A D E

This summer, the elephants are taking over the City in London’s biggest ever public art event, The Elephant Parade, says Claire Saunders

Dumbo 2010

nless you’ve been on another planet, most of you will have already noticed the mysterious painted elephants appearing at various landmarks across the City of London during May. Life-size and dramatic, they certainly draw attention to themselves – and this just the kind of reaction that the organisers are hoping for… In order to highlight the plight of the beautiful but endangered Asian elephant, the charity, Elephant

Family, has teamed up with Britain’s leading art and design luminaries to launch London’s biggest ever public art event – The Elephant Parade. This fun and innovative fundraising campaign will see the capital taken over by beautifully hand painted lifesize baby elephants, creating a unique display of art, creativity and culture in sort of ‘urban jungle’ scene. The London Elephant Parade (following similar events in Holland and Belgium) features 250 stunning life-size baby elephants, all hand-

msf_2010_citylife_junead.indd 1

19/5/10 12:28:37

interview Mark Artus global living mobility world personal finance self-employed .......................................................... .......................

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COALITION GOVERNMENT: the facts

W 2010 is the first time Britain has had a coalition government in 70 years

hilst Conservative leader David Cameron will lead the new government, there will also be senior cabinet posts for Lib Dem MPs, with Nick Clegg serving as deputy prime minister. The Lib Dems have been given five seats in Cabinet with a further 15 ministerial jobs expected – so more than a third of the 57 Lib Dem MPs will be in government, including Vince Cable (Business Secretary), Chris Huhne (Energy & Climate Change Secretary) and David Laws (Chief Secretary to the Treasury).

Cameron has stated that the new government’s priorities are “safeguarding national security, supporting our troops abroad, tackling the debt crisis, repairing our broken political system and building a stronger society”. Clegg wants a “bold, reforming government that puts fairness back into Britain”. With a divide on many issues there are bound to be disagreements between members of the coalition, but both Cameron and Clegg have urged ministers to keep differences which arise between them private. The PM and deputy PM will chair a Coalition Committee set up to resolve any disputes. n

One

hard question Josephine O’Donoghue talks to branding expert Mark Artus about his background in product branding, his move to leading company 1HQ and his unique approach to tackling each campaign successfully

Why did you join 1HQ, what appealed to you about the company ?

ark Artus is probably more than just a branding expert. As CEO of 1HQ (an independent branding agency based in Windsor), he boasts more than 20 years’ experience in both the UK and USA. Mark formerly worked as the chief development officer at Fitch Worldwide and was responsible for establishing and developing Fitch America and Fitch Asia, before moving to head up expansion at 1HQ last year. I caught up with him to find out more about the world of product branding, his tips for a successful pitch and the future of his business...

1HQ has an outstanding reputation for being behind some of the UK’s biggest branding ideas, so I was thrilled when they offered me an opportunity to be a part of the team. One of the things that attracted me to the agency was their unique approach to branding. They believed in creating strong “BrandheartsTM” that are strong enough ideas, and are campaignable across multiple channels of distribution. The company asks clients ‘One Hard Question’ (the 1HQ) about the biggest challenge their business faces. Once this question has been determined, 1HQ go about answering it using creative branding techniques, which ultimately can change the fortunes of a business. The natural inclination is to move quickly to solutions, but in the rush to find answers, we don’t spend enough time on understanding and defining the right question we ought to be asking. It’s a really exciting and unique approach and it’s great to be a part of it.

Why did you decide to work in branding ?

Which campaigns have you been involved in since joining 1HQ ??

As a student I was always fascinated by design and had a strong interest in form following function. Rudolf Steiner had a big influence on the way I started to think about design, and I was particularly interested in understanding why something should exist and the message it gave out.

I’m involved in virtually every campaign at some level; since joining the company I’ve worked on some of the biggest campaigns, ranging from Rowntree Randoms and Magnum to Surf and Heinz. The work we did with Rowntree’s Randoms was particularly well received and had a huge impact on their annual sales.

interview

Have you ever come across a product or brand that you’ve been unsuccessful with ?? I don’t want to sound arrogant but I’ve always set the bar at the level that you must believe in what you do. I have turned down opportunities in the past because I didn’t think the idea itself was strong enough for the company – so I don’t think we have been involved with brands which have flopped, as we spend time making sure we have the right fit for the brands we represent.

What makes 1HQ stand out from competitors? ? The way we tackle branding problems and develop solutions sets us apart from other companies. At 1HQ we are very strong when it comes to planning, innovation and strategy – and have very strong synergy between all these areas. I think we are entrepreneurial; we have very innovative ideas and pride ourselves on our creativity.

Has 1HQ struggled in the recession? ? Like most businesses, we have had to work very hard to maintain relationships. Primarily we have done this through striving to raise the bar and be as creative as we can be. We have had to work very hard at making sure the campaign is financially viable to serve our clients best. We have also just taken on two new graduates. I do feel businesses have a responsibility to graduates, because they are the people who will work for us in the future – companies must support graduates by offering short-term opportunities.

What is your greatest achievement ?? One of my key objectives when I came to 1HQ was to help build and develop the business, making us one of the most dynamic branding agencies around. Over the last year, we have brought together some of the best creative minds in the UK from some of the top agencies, building an élite ‘dream team’ who are the top experts in their field. Our success at 1HQ has recently been noted by receiving a nomination in The Sunday Times Top 100 businesses to watch in 2010. On a personal level I was very pleased to receive the Gold Design of the decade award in America for work I did for Chrysler. It was a great example of bringing together creative ideas with a strong business focus.

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TOP 5 BRANDING TIPS • Ask the one hard question that is keeping you up at night and ensure you address the right problem that is affecting the brand. Do you need to refresh, reinvigorate or re-invent? • Identify who your core consumer, user or customer is and stick to it. Don’t be tempted to keep diversifying; know your customer and commit to the same promise as when you started out • Start right from the very beginning, and identify what the level of appreciation is for the brand both internally and externally. Who are your promoters, your passives and your detractors? • Look at all the brand touch-points and where the best place will be to focus to get the message across clearly. For example, what is the best form of media? Is it ATL (above the line) broadcast media or BTL (below the line) shopper marketing, retail, packaging • Trend will always influence a brand, but will never replace its DNA, so don’t rely on a new trend to re-invent a brand – it simply won’t work

What’s happening in the future of 1HQ? ? We see ourselves as a leading brand agency, we hope to go global and have a three-year business plan to help us achieve this. We are looking to double our clients, and a good proportion of this will see us expanding out of Europe into Asia and America. We have also just launched our new website, which we hope will continue to serve and develop relationships with existing clients; maintaining high quality and also to attract new clients that are interested in our approach to branding. n For more information, visit www.1hq.co.uk

Holding on to your ID Expats are particularly prone to identity fraud and theft. This may well be because individuals are less focused on identity security when in transit from one place to another but the statistics are shocking CIFAS, The UK’s Fraud Prevention Service reported an increase in identity fraud of 19.86 per cent in the first quarter of 2010 (compared with the same period in 2009). It advises that there has been a surge in identity frauds that make use of the victim›s current address details (which are therefore more sophisticated and difficult to detect since you may have to give your name out to various suppliers in the process of moving, this is worth thinking about). CIFAS advises the following: Don’t tempt those moving into your old address - a replacement storecard or a mail order catalogue arriving at your old address is a gift to a fraudster •

Treat your plastic cards, traveller’s cheques and passports as securely as you would cash. Avoid keeping them in bags such as rucksacks that can easily be opened without you noticing

•

If you plan to be away for some time, inform your bank and other relevant organisations

•

Make sure any post sent to your address is dealt with securely. Consider contacting the Royal Mail about its ‘Keepsafe’ service

•

At work, double check that your records are kept in a secure location

After accidental Americans, accidental Britons? We wrote last month about the phenomenon of accidental Americans who discover that they have citizenship of the US without being aware of it. They can also discover that they should have been filing US tax returns. This idea has apparently travelled. Within days of this magazine going to press, the economics editor of one our major national newspapers blogged about this idea also applying to UK citizens. In attempts to bring down the UK’s deficit no stone is likely to be left unturned in the search for tax revenue. As many as 5.5 million Britons now live abroad so the revenue potential is considerable. It was even postulated that some high earners could seek to revoke their British citizenship. This being the UK, various tax accountants were wheeled out to say there would be practical difficulties. It might not surprise you to learn that the actual tax records of UK citizens living abroad are not very conclusive. Doubts were also expressed about whether HMRC would have staff with the ability to handle some of the issues involved.

Founded just 12 months ago, The Forum for Expatriate Management already has over 4,000 members who collectively manage over one million expatriate moves. Members come from the leading blue-chip employers of international assignees both in the UK and globally. The Forum also has extensive databases of useful technical information including country guides to over 100 worldwide locations. Membership is free.

global living

the

comment

RISE OF GLOBAL

MOBILITY

For global living international executives keeping up to date with the latest news is important

Mobility

is here to Stay

The expatriate world is awash with surveys. As in most industries they are generally published for marketing purposes with companies keen to demonstrate that their services are still relevant but, occasionally, says Brian Friedman, a survey is published that is genuinely thought provoking

he recent PWC report ‘Talent Mobility 2010’ falls into that category – a report drawn together from a number of sources, including PWC’s annual Global CEO survey. Despite the worst recession since the 1930’s, or more likely because of it, PWC believes CEO’s will be looking much more seriously at the deployment of their people in future and, as such ‘Talent Management’ is a piece of jargon that is permeating the expatriate management community. The increase in staff being offered international assignments grew by 25 per cent in the first decade of this century and PWC predicts that it will rise by a further 50 per cent in the next ten years. Assignments will cover a whole range of circumstances including extended business trips and weekly commuting. Whilst technology allows for much more flexible deployment of people, the report indicates that this will not detract from the requirement for people on the ground. If you count yourself part of the millennial generation, none of this will be news. The new era of professionals regards overseas assignments as a rite of passage and an integral part of a career. According to the survey 80 per cent of you want to work abroad and 70 per cent want to use a non-native language. 94 per cent of respondents to PWC believed that they are more likely to work across borders than their parents.

What will also be interesting is where those assignments are likely to be. Cities such as Mumbai, Dhaka and Sao Paolo will eclipse those of New York, London and Paris in terms of population. Previous generations of expatriates may have regarded overseas postings as a short cut to riches. This is unlikely to be the case in the future. Companies will become much more savvy at devising more cost effective methods of remuneration. Put simply, your pay on an international assignment is more likely to be linked to the country you are going to rather than the country you are coming from. As we have mentioned before on these pages, the compliance aspects of global working are complex. At the time of going to press the new Conservative/Liberal Democratic coalition government in the UK is determining an annual quota of nonEU entrants allowed to work here. PWC believes that this is very much for the short term. It believes that recent market dramas have actually forged a better relationship between government and business that is likely to develop. There is huge scope for better cooperation on tax issues. Whilst a global tax treaty is unlikely in the near future, there is a distinct possibility that there will be more consistency between governments. This would then be accompanied by more sophisticated collection and enforcement services. We live in hope... n

For more information, visit www.totallyexpat.com

80% of you want to work abroad and 70% want

to use a non-native language

comment human resources

When is enough

too much?

Chelsey Baker, business advisor and life coach, looks at gaining life perspective

n today’s hectic world, it’s a commonly accepted ‘fact’ that in order to succeed in business you must be prepared to do whatever it takes … and come what may, to keep on going and going. This often proves to be a winning strategy, at least from a corporate perspective; but unfortunately, it is also a strategy that can, and frequently does, take a huge toll on those who live by it. The real fact of the matter is that, now more than ever before, this particular work ethic is directly responsible for producing disproportionate levels of stress and mental burn-out; a long-term unsustainable state of affairs which, invariably, will lead to such adverse effects as excessive drinking, chemical dependency, broken relationships, addiction and ultimately serious ill health. Perhaps it’s high time to step back and take stock of your work–life balance and ask yourself: “Is this really working for me?” Most people go from one project to the next without so much as a moment’s thought for any type of reward for their hard work, or to permit themselves a brief respite before embarking on the next punishing deadline. We now seem to be positively encouraged to place ourselves under enormous pressure and to have unreasonably high expectations of ourselves, only to subsequently beat ourselves up for not attaining those impossible standards. The truth is that most workaholics are so programmed to stay ‘switched on’ 24/7 they would not know what to do with themselves if they had the time to recharge.

We evolved to live in our ancestral environment and human physiology has simply not had time to adapt to a post-industrial corporate world; consequently, our bodies are only designed to deal with short, episodic levels of stress: the so-called fight or flight survival mechanism. Despite anything we or anyone else might claim, we are simply not equipped to deal with sustained pressure; neverending worry and stress can only take its toll on the mind and body. For example, the body cannot differentiate between sudden dieting and famine, because of the way it was programmed by our ancestral environment. Consequently, when we seriously reduce calories, our bodies respond by burning muscle and preserving fat, the exact opposite of what we are trying to achieve. Instead, we have to adopt a sensible, balanced diet to reduce fat progressively. Similarly, when we persistently rely upon adrenaline, masochistically long hours and sleep deprivation to make deadlines, our bodies become unable to refresh and replenish themselves; ultimately, the immune system begins to crack under the strain and fails to function. Above a certain individual threshold, the more work we attempt to do, the less efficient it becomes, until our performance completely breaks down … or we do! This is a very dangerous time, as we become vulnerable to bad advice and can turn to a number of so-called temporary ‘stopgaps’ and ‘quick fixes’; all of which will be detrimental and eventually worsen the situation. So what should you do? Well, first of all you must buy into the fact that you really are a mere human being and learn to understand your immutable genetic heritage. You cannot change your physiology any more than you can stop the sun from setting; understand how your body works and accept it, because you have no choice. You need to find time to stop, take a big step back and then take careful stock of your life, factoring in a generous portion of regular downtime. This is not necessarily time to go out drinking and partying after work, enjoyable though that may be, but quality rest and recuperation time. We are often our own worst enemy when we fail to grasp that to truly get ahead in life and business, we must foster an ability to readily ‘switch off’ mentally and physically; the truly enlightened are able to do this at a moment’s notice. We all need rest from work to recharge and rejuvenate our batteries in order to secure a healthy work–life balance. Never underestimate the power of a good night’s uninterrupted sleep. With balance and harmony in your life, you will able to appreciate all of your achievements and enjoy a long, productive and rewarding working life. n

See many of the latest cars at Londonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s FREE motorshow

7 - 13 June motorexpo.com

comment personal finance

MONEY MATTERS: Thoughts for the self-employed Post recession, self-employment has become a popular choice â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but what factors should you consider when planning your finances? Martin Bamford looks into the trend to set up your own business As the UK economy continues with a fragile recovery, one consequence of the recession has emerged. According to a new survey, almost one quarter of all self-employed workers have worked for themselves for less than two years. This seems to suggest that the recession prompted a lot of people to leave the world of employment and set up their own business.

Protection is another important consideration. When you leave employment, there is a good chance you are also leaving behind the death-in-service part of your employee benefits. This means that, in the event of your untimely death, your family would be left without the money they need to repay debt and fund their lifestyle in the future.

Many factors can prompt self-employment. Redundancy is a major catalyst, particularly for older employees who feel they are better able to apply their lifetime of skills and knowledge in the self-employed arena. With a higher level of redundancies during a recession, it is of little surprise that a lot of people in self-employment started down this path within the past couple of years.

Other protection that can disappear when you become self-employed includes private medical insurance (PMI) and income replacement insurance. In the case of PMI, it is often possible to convert your group benefits to an individual policy, whilst retaining the lower cost premiums of a group scheme.

When you become self-employed, it is important to review your personal financial planning. The move from employment to self-employment is a major event in financial planning terms, with several areas of planning to consider. Making the decision to become self-employed will usually involve some planning around cash flow and cash reserves to fund the first few months or years, when income may be scarce or non-existent. If you have been fortunate enough to be able to plan ahead, you should have had the opportunity to build a cash reserve for this purpose. A higher risk strategy is to take on debt to fund the start-up phase of your self-employment, by extending your mortgage, taking out a business loan or borrowing from friends. If you go down the borrowing route, ensure that you understand the cost of financing this and the risks involved. For example, if you borrow more on your mortgage, you need to be aware that your home is at risk if you do not keep up mortgage repayments.

Whilst on the subject of employee benefits, a major change when you become self-employed is usually to your retirement planning. If you leave the comfort of a good occupational pension scheme, you will probably be shocked by the cost of replacing these benefits with contributions to a personal pension arrangement. What is important when it comes to your retirement planning is to understand what you have got and what you will need. It is then possible truly to understand the cost of funding the retirement income you need. Becoming self-employed is potentially a traumatic time for your financial planning, but one that you need to take seriously. The most important allies during this time will be an independent financial adviser, preferably one who has experience of being self-employed, and an accountant to provide advice on the tax aspects of your new working life. n

Martin Bamford is a Chartered Financial Planner at Informed Choice Ltd www.icl-ifa.co.uk

Auction of Wrist & Pocket Watches Monday 5th July at 11am

A stainless steel automatiíc green sapphire crystal Rolex Milgauss watch. With box and papers.

Estimate £2,800 - £3,500

A stainless steel automatic co-axial Omega Seamaster Planet Ocean. With box and papers.

Estimate £700 - £1,000

A stainless steel automatic Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date GMT Master II bracelet. With box and papers.

Estimate £1,500 - £2,000

19 Augusta Street, Birmingham B18 6JA Telephone: 0121 212 2131 www.fellows.co.uk/city

WHO’S THE BEST?

CITY or CANARY WHARF In the run up to the London Triathlon, the most hotly contested competition is the corporate team relay. Claire Saunders speaks to last year’s winners and checks out the runners, riders and swimmers

The London Triathlon is one of the biggest sporting events in London in the summer months; capturing the imagination of thousands of athletes each year. This year the event takes place on 7 August at ExCeL London and individual entries are already full. The only way to enter this year’s event is to enter the team relay. All you need to do is find two colleagues who are up for a challenge, pick your discipline and get training. There’s far more at stake than just personal pride. This is the ultimate answer to who is best; City or Canary Wharf? There’s also trophies for the winning teams in the fields of Financial, Legal, Insurance, IT & Telecoms, Marketing and Media industries as well as prizes for the companies who raise the most money for charity. Who knows maybe there’ll be a clean sweep? Who will win the battle and come out labelled the strongest, fastest and fittest? To enter your team now, visit www.londontriathlon.co.uk and let the countdown begin... LAST YEAR’S WINNERS:

TEAM DELOITTE Last year Deloitte won the Corporate Team Relay Sprint title. This summer, the company is entering eight teams and four individual Olympic distance entries, all eager to complete the triathlon with a very personal motivation. Mark Cliff is one of the Deloitte individual athletes taking part this year, looking to uphold the winning streak. He explains his motivation: “A valued colleague and friend of ours, Barclay Webster, was diagnosed with a rare sinus cancer in July last year. Following his diagnosis he has undergone chemotherapy, surgery and radiotherapy and will undergo further surgery. “Barclay is now recovering from his treatment at home in Edinburgh, gradually getting his strength and energy back and hopes to return to work soon. Although the triathlon has come a bit too soon for him, we decided to get teams together to compete at the London Triathlon and raise money for charities who have supported him along the way.” An enthusiastic entrant, Mark has built training into his daily routine and hopes that this is the winning feather in his cap:

“I have done lots of biking through my commute to work, a few runs to work, and swimming when I can. I probably do 10-12 hours a week in total, constantly working to beat my personal bests. “There is also some internal competition, which I’m sure will build up as we approach the event, particularly with the individual entries.” His biggest challenge on race day will be the swim: “It’s very daunting,” he says. “All those arms and legs and no lanes to guide you or poolside to grab. I’m struggling to see past the swimming, but once I’m out the water I’ll be confident of improving my position.” Deloitte will be raising money for the Clatterbridge Centre for Oncology, Maggies and Macmillan. For more information on how to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/ReadingPensionsTeam-Triathlon www.justgiving.com/DTRBLondonTriathlon-Macmillan www.justgiving.com/DTRBLondonTriathlon-Maggies www.justgiving.com/DTRBManchester www.justgiving.com/Ben-Goodwin

CITYpromotion

“We believe that the British Triathlon is a great fit for GE and we are confident that our support could potentially make a real impact on Team GB’s gold medal prospects in 2012.” For further information about GE and their involvement, visit www.ge.com/uk/triathlon This summer, Belron is expected to enter around 150 teams for the team relay with teams from around 22 different countries. Kate Bray is one of the Belron team members taking part: “I have been training twice a week for the race – I’m a comfortable 5k runner but I am trying to run 10k this year. “My biggest challenge on race day will be managing over 600 Belron competitors to compete in the event! Cycling and running is the easy bit for me.

THE CONTENDERS:

TEAM GE CAPITAL & TEAM BELRON GE has recently agreed to become Elite Partner sponsor to the British Triathlon, so involvement in and support of the triathlon is very much part of their agenda leading up to 2012. This summer is the first time that the company has participated in the London Triathlon and they have entered 36 teams. Simon Ramage is one of the GE Capital team members taking part: “I have always enjoyed these types of event as they are much more fun than running alone. I haven’t done as much training as I would have liked – but at my age (49) I am convincing myself that to over-train would be dangerous! “My biggest challenge on the day will be remembering to warm-up properly. Most of the running injuries I have suffered have been due to my failure to warm-up so I will make sure I do this. A good result for me would be a sub-30 minute time – not spectacular by any means but I have to be confident of that. My advice to those facing their first race would be to warm up, take the first mile easy and enjoy it.” “As a proud sponsor of the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, we wanted to establish an association with an exciting and modern sport which we feel would benefit from our support, our technology and our expertise,” says Mark Elborne, president & CEO, GE UK.

“As a corporate company we take part every year; it’s a great event and it allows people to compete who may not be comfortable competing in all three events. The sprint team option allows individuals from all levels to take part. We all hope for a good result but it’s the taking part that’s the important bit as we all do it to raise money for our Global Charity.” Last year Belron was the largest corporate entry in the London Triathlon and raised over € 500,000 in sponsorship for their charity MaAfrika Tikkun – a charity based in South Africa which works with orphans and vulnerable children in the country giving them vital care and support and the skills need to succeed in life. For further information about Team Belron and how to donate, visit www.belrontri.com As media sponsors for this event the city magazine will be following some of the teams on their journey, offering some advice and publishing all of the results after the event. If you have entered a team, we would like to hear from you, so give us a call and tell us your story...

What are you waiting for? So now that you’ve heard from the competition, what are you waiting for? Sign up today, start your training and you could be the toast of corporate London. Visit www.thelondontriathlon.co.uk to register your entry.

SHOPPING

THE TASTE OF SUMMER

Having already cornered a delicious culinary market in Canary Wharf, offering a matchless take on sophisticated and modern Japanese dining, Roka has now added a string to its bow with the terrace. Providing all the familiar Japanese classics such as sushi and thick, glistening slices of sashimi, Roka also serves innovative new creations inspired by Japanese ingredients, such as the lusciously unique butterfish tataki with yuzu and shallot dressing and delectable Japanese-European fusion desserts. Now, right in time for the glorious summer sunshine, Roka is opening the terrace, a fantastic outdoor area overlooking the peaceful green oasis of Canada Square Park. With a relaxing, lounge like atmosphere the terrace makes a great place to enjoy the full Roka experience, whilst enjoying the weather on a fine summer’s evening. A great place to meet with friends and colleagues; to relax and revive after a hectic day, or splash out and reward yourself for another great job done. In addition to the already impressive array of delights on offer inside and now outside too, guests can also enjoy one of the fine cigars from the excellent range available from the humidor on the terrace.

The Park Pavilion Canada Square 020 7636 5228

Monday – Saturday: 12noon- 2.30pm and 5.30pm- 11pm Bar Opening Hours: Monday – Saturday: 12noon - 11pm

motoring sport gadgets

bentley wimbledon ................................. latest & greatest ................................................................................

...............................................................................

BACK TO THE FUTURE

As the wraps came off the Cygnet – the new baby Aston Martin – at the recent Geneva Show, Matthew Carter walked away shaking his head in disbelief

ranted, most will find it hard to hand over £50k for the Aston when they can bag the donor car for a mere £12,000, but the Cygnet is not aimed at everyman. With its handcrafted interior – a sumptuous mix of hand-stitched leather, alcantara and aluminium – and its distinctive looks, the Cygnet will be offered to existing Aston owners only. And what that means is, when you see one buzzing around town, you’ll know that the driver has something more potent in the garage. And that garage is probably attached to a home

in the country, while the Cygnet is kept as a runabout at the townhouse. Will it sell? Despite the cost, quite probably. After all, back in the Swinging Sixties a hugely inflated price tag didn’t deter the rich and famous from buying Minis stuffed with walnut ‘n’ leather from coach-builders like Radford and Wood & Pickett. Cygnet does nothing more than bring the concept up to date. n For more information, visit www.astonmartin.com

motoring

calibre

Question:

Which is the more scary – a football hooligan in a pair of ripped jeans and a hoodie, or Vinnie Jones in a sharp suit?

Answer:

VJ and the suit. While torn denims and a face-masking top is the standard uniform for many a young yob, there’s something infinitely more menacing about a tough guy wearing razor cut creases.

calibre motoring

The Supersports was born out of a desire to create a Bentley that waved two fingers at everyone. It’s got more power than before – a remarkable 621 bhp has been extracted from the awesomely smooth 6.0-litre W12 engine – and the gearbox has been tweaked to halve shift times (Bentley coyly calls it Quickshift, which must be one of the understatements of the year). The Supersports is also the first Bentley to use FlexFuel technology, meaning it’ll run on petrol or E85 biofuel… though, as a sop to the Greens, it doesn’t really go that far, does it? The chassis has also been modified with a wider rear track, bespoke 20-inch wheels, retuned dampers and anti-roll bars. Lightweight components have been used throughout, while the four-wheel drive system has been tweaked so that more power is fed to the back wheels. Ceramic brakes, meanwhile, mean it stops as well as it goes. From the outside, wider rear wheel arches and smoked ‘brightwork’ underline the toughness of the car, which can be further accentuated if you choose a matt paint finish. But it’s inside where the Supersports becomes controversial. To make the most of the extra performance, Bentley has put the car on a diet. It’s lost 110kgs in all, and most of that has come via removing the rear seats. Completely. This is now a strict two-seater, the place where the rear seats used to be now acting as extra storage space – though it’s not terribly practical as it is dissected by a carbon fibre crossbeam, which gives added strength to the shell. And, despite the price hike, you lose a number of luxury items. If you want to adjust the quilted Alcantaracovered lightweight sports seats (a saving of 45 kg on their own), for example, then you’ll have to do it manually. Who cares? This is a very small price to pay for one of the most dramatic cars on the road today. Performance is literally breathtaking, with 60 mph coming up from a standing start in 3.7 seconds, while the thing has a top speed of 204 mph. It is, they say, the fastest and most powerful road-going Bentley ever made. Pointless performance? While the top speed might be academic in the UK unless you’re on a track day, the acceleration is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Perhaps the most significant figure is not the standing start one, but the time it takes to accelerate from 50–70 mph, typical open road overtaking performance … just 2.1 seconds. Speed, in this case, means safety.

there’s something infinitely more menacing about a tough guy wearing razor cut creases

The effect it has on other road users is pretty spectacular, too. Pounding up the motorway, whatever the Supersports came up behind moved over sharpish. No one tried to block the car’s progress, all preferring to melt out of the way as it menaced them via the rear view mirror. But the Supersports proved to be just at home on twisty B-roads, with levels of grip and poise that defy its bulk. And the ride is simply astonishingly good. This car can be trickled through traffic, soaking up London’s potholes and speed bumps with alacrity, though you’ll need to mind those vulnerable alloys on the capital’s kerbs.

Problems?

Well, the fact that’s only a two-seater might or might not cause concern, but no one can deny its thirst will raise an eyebrow. Bentley claims 17.3 mpg combined, but you’ll only see 14 mpg if you’re lucky. And the cost to brim the 90-litre tank is not for the impecunious. There’s some good news on the forecourt, though. If Autocar magazine is to be believed, Bentley has overestimated the number of buyers looking for a twoseater, and reckons £10k discount is on the cards against a new one. And that’ll buy a lot of fuel. Remember, on the right day and on the right road, you can forgive the Supersports anything. Vinnie Jones, eat your heart out. n

Equip FP advert3:Layout 1 19/05/2009 13:23 Page 1

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London Golf Club Jack’s Inspiration

Jack Nicklaus’ success and vision as the greatest golfer in history is peerless, and was the inspiration for his two championship courses at London Golf Club. Jack’s vision demands the best in tournament golf, which is why we are excited to be part of the oldest Championship of all. Welcome to London Golf Club, host to The Open Championship Regional Qualifying.

To find out more call 01474 879899, or email us at info@londongolf.co.uk www.londongolf.co.uk

London Golf Club, Stansted Lane, Ash, Nr Brands Hatch, Kent TN15 7EH

sport

calibre

Buy it:

sports

news

GET YOUR KIT ON

As the world gets ready to be gripped by football fever, FIFA celebrates the launch of its brand new sport inspired fashion range, right in time for the FIFA World Cup, taking place this month in South Africa. The Spring Summer 10 range is made up of five mini collections, each designed with a distinct and individual identity, taking inspirat on from both key fashion trends and specific stories in football’s fascinating history and development. The five collections are 1904, Editions, Code, Essentials and Event. 1904 is named after the year of FIFA’s inception in Paris and features vintage style and preppy chic with varsity style T-shirts and lightweight knits. Editions celebrates previous World Cup winners, focusing on seven of the most famous nations in football history: Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy and Uruguay. Filled with superb historic details, the collection features the original winning team colours, including white and gold for Brazil and red and white for Italy. Code is a range of urban wear inspired by the youth and energy of street football around the world. Featuring bold and bright colours, the vibrant graphic patterns are inspired by African Bantu art. With great design and a wealth of football inspired heritage behind them, the collections are great for football and fashion fans alike.

Home Gym Office by Phillipe Starck Clebrated French designer Phillipe Starck has just designed a new range of fitness equipment for luxury Italian brand Alias. The range includes jump ropes, gym mats and these sleekly stylish chrome bar bells. Almost a fusion between art and function and surely the perfect adornment to any bachelor pad; once you get a hand on these bar bells, exercise will never be a chore again. www.aliasdesign.it

Say what?

Champions keep playing until they get it right

Billie Jean King

Five things you didn’t know... WAYNE ROONEY

Formerly known as The Half Moon, a pub in Paignton, Devon has changed its name in Rooney’s honour to The Half Roon

Rooney enjoys boxing and is a huge fan of Mike Tyson

Statistics suggest that during the course of an average match, Rooney touches the ball twice with his head, 13 times with his chest and an impressive 90 times with his feet

Rooney made his first national appearance as a substitute for Everton at 16 years old, and scored the winning goal against Arsenal within minutes

Rooney’s childhood hero was football legend and former England and Newcastle United striker Alan Shearer

www.FIFA.com

SPECTATOR SPORT From late June right throughout the summer, Canary Wharf will be hosting outdoor screenings of all the best British sporting events. The screenings will be free to attend and take place in Canada Square Park. Starting with screenings of Ascot on 19 June, the events will continue throughout the summer months with screenings of the Wimbledon Championships from 22 June and Formula 1 British Grand Prix on 21 June. Sit out and enjoy the summer sun and catch up with the latest developments at Britain’s most famous sporting events for the perfect lunchtime or after work activity. www.mycanarywharf.com

Who wants to be a

Millionaire? I

Lee Brooks talks to former British number one Andrew Castle about Wimbledon, the world’s most famous tennis tournament, where this year’s winner will walk away with a cool £1million

f there was no money at Wimbledon, everybody would still be there and they’d still want to win it,” says Andrew Castle, who will be commentating for the BBC at this year’s tournament. But for the lucky man and woman who manage to win seven successive singles matches during the Wimbledon fortnight, they will be walking away with a cheque, and a tasty one at that – a record-breaking £1 million. When Australian Rod Laver won Wimbledon in 1968, the first time prize money was awarded for winning the title, he picked up a cheque for just £2,000. In 1999, that figure had increased to £455,000 and now, 11 years later, it has more than doubled, despite the global

recession. And it seems that while the world is tightening its belt, people will still fork out for a day at the All England Club; in 2009, the tournament generated a surplus of £29.2 million and goes some way to justifying how it can warrant offering such huge prize money. Wimbledon is the oldest tennis tournament in the world and is generally considered the most prestigious. It has been held at the All England Club since 1877, and is the only Grand Slam tournament still to be played on the game’s original surface – grass. While there are three other Grand Slams that are on par with the tournament in terms of ranking points, there’s something extra special about Wimbledon that makes it the tournament everybody wants to win.

sport

“For me, it’s the number one title and the most distinctive of the Grand Slams,” says Castle. “I played there for the first time in 1986 and, since then, they’ve managed to improve the standard of facilities without losing that element of tradition. As a brand, Wimbledon is just phenomenal and it’s the one tournament every player wants to win.”

FEDEDER’S TOURNAMENT In recent years, Roger Federer has made this tournament his own. The world number one and winner of 16 grand slam titles is at his effortless best when he steps out onto the famous Centre Court – the venue which has seen him win seven of the last eight finals – and is showing no signs of letting up any time soon. “It may be a little boring for some people, but not for me,” says Castle of Federer’s utter dominance of the men’s game. “Every time he comes on court, you just don’t know what he’s going to do next. I first saw him when he was 15 and, like a lot of people, I saw a talent that was just phenomenal. I can watch him all day long. I know he lost to Rafael Nadal in 2008, but he came back strongly last year and I just can’t look past him for a winner this time round. “You always have to pick a Federer v Nadal final. Generally, they’re on opposite sides of the draw and, to beat them, people have to step out on court and find something they generally can’t.” On the British front, Andy Murray still represents the best chance of success since Fred Perry triumphed in 1936. The Scot had his best season on the ATP Tour last year, where he reached a career high number two in the rankings, and then reached the final in Australia earlier this year, only to meet Federer in imperious form. “Murray’s had a great return for his efforts and his talent,” says Castle. “He’s been in two Grand Slam finals and the semis at Wimbledon. I think Murray will win Wimbledon one day, but you have to think of Federer and Nadal first because they’re just the two best players in the world at the moment.”

calibre

WILLIAMS’ DOMINATION While Federer dominates the men’s side, it’s more of a family affair in the women’s event. Venus and Serena Williams have won eight of the last ten Wimbledon titles between them and, while they may not show the same sort of form in the tournaments leading up to the event, as soon as they step onto court at Wimbledon, they manage to find an extra couple of gears. “If you have to face a Williams sister at Wimbledon, it’s going to be tough,” says Castle. “They’re so gifted and remain the ones to beat.” But there are others in the mix that could thwart their chances. Belgian Justine Henin, for example, returned to the sport this year with a set goal of winning Wimbledon – the only Grand Slam yet to elude her. “You may as well pen her in the quarter finals straight away, because she’s not going to lose early,” says the former British number one. “If you’re interested in a bet, Henin would be the one. “Also look out for Svetlana Kuznetsova. She’s won Grand Slams before – the French Open and the US Open – so she’s definitely capable. However, sometimes she sprays a few shots which you don’t expect. Even so, I’d put her towards the latter of the tournament.” But whatever the result of this year’s championships, if you’ve got a glass of Pimms in one hand, a bowl of strawberries and cream in the other, and some world class tennis to enjoy, everybody will be a winner, eh? n

If there was no money at Wimbledon, everybody would still be there and they’d still want to win it

Andrew Castle is the lead commentator for the Wimbledon Championships live and exclusive on the BBC from 21 June– 4 July 2010. Andrew is also the perfect choice for hosting corporate tennis sessions, events and award ceremonies. For further information please contact Katie Lydon on 020 8834 8900

CITYpromotion

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the tennis calendar, the Wimbledon Tennis superb catering and an intimate environment the Wimbledon Club exudes style. The Executive Restaurant has capacity for 140 guests with an exclusive balcony overlooking the practice courts, whilst the ground-floor Garden Restaurant has a private lounge, bar and garden, and can cater for 40 to 60 guests. Along with guaranteed debenture tickets for either Centre Court or Number 1 Court, the Wimbledon Club provides the ideal venue to host your guests and make the most of your time. Full hospitality packages include Champagne and canapĂŠs reception, full complimentary bar, four-course lunch, official tickets and traditional afternoon tea. 020 7223 7769 www.mikeburton.com

sport

calibre

CASHING IN ON THE TREND When former Wimbledon champion, Pat Cash, takes to the court at the Hurlingham Club this month, don’t expect anything other than fireworks. Lee Brooks caught up with the Aussie to find out he’s lost none of his competitive instincts…

at Cash is a trendsetter. The fiery Australian made an instant impact on the professional ATP Tour when he made his debut in 1982 demanding respect with an attacking serve-volley approach. But he’ll forever be remembered by his trademark black-and-white checked headband and earring in the shape of a cross. Not afraid to speak his mind, Cash drew legions of fans around the world as he backed up his talk with a gritty and attacking brand of tennis. He enjoyed plenty of success on grass culminating in his 1987 triumph at Wimbledon where he memorably climbed into the Centre Court stands to embrace his family and coaching team in what became an emotional Wimbledon tradition. Sadly, a series of achilles and knee injuries plagued Cash’s career and the Australian would never return to the dizzying heights of that July afternoon in 1987. But luckily for the fans, the 45-year-old has lost none of his competitive nature and is a regular on the seniors’ tour. This month, he’ll be back in action on his favourite surface, grass.

“It’s always great fun to play at the BNP Paribas Tennis Classic,” said Cash. “The club is absolutely stunning and this year there are some great legends playing. We always enjoy playing some competitive tennis again but the best part is that we can have some laughs on court as well.” Usually the legends matches are a combination of fast-paced rallies with a touch of humour but underneath Cash is adamant they all want to win. “We are always competitive even if it’s just for bragging rights,” he said. “I think the fact that we are all professional athletes means that we never like to lose, even if it is just a game of tiddlywinks, but the difference nowadays is that losing doesn’t matter so much. We can enjoy a good match and then all have a beer together afterwards.” “Something which I think all players recognise is that the British public has a real appreciation for the game and on the whole are a very knowledgeable audience. It is nice to play in front of people who appreciate what you are trying to do.” Cash has fond memories of the Hurlingham Club and clearly isn’t surprised that the tournament is still going strong because he believes it plays a hugely important role for players on the main tour in preparing for this month’s signature event – Wimbledon. And while dreams for another Wimbledon title are all but over, there is one tournament on the seniors’ tour which is almost as special – the AEGON Masters at the Royal Albert Hall which kicks off this December. “The Albert Hall is an awesome venue,” said Cash. “The structure of the hall means the fans are so close to the players and you feel like a gladiator when you are on court. It is slightly different from Hurlingham because we play singles and we go at it very hard but when you couple the legends with the beautiful venue and add a Christmassy, relaxed feeling in the crowd, it is the perfect way for us all to end another busy year.” Away from the court, Cash is a big family man and has recently become a grandfather after his daughter Mia gave birth to a baby girl a few weeks ago. “My family for sure is my biggest passion but outside of that I am a dedicated music fan. I love rock music and even play in a band myself. Aussie rules football comes a close second, although because I live in the UK, I find it tough finding anyone who knows what I am talking about!” n Pat Cash will play in this year’s BNP Paribas Tennis Classic held in the luxurious setting of London’s Hurlingham Club from 15-19 June and the AEGON Masters Tennis held at London’s Royal Albert Hall between 30 November and 5 December. For further information, visit www.bnpparibastennisclassic. com and www.aegonmasterstennis.com

ENJOY THE THRILL OF HORSERACING And meet some of the stars of the turf at our exclusive VIP event

Imagine the roar of the crowd as your horse turns into the straight; the jockey jostles into position and wills the horse to push through to the finish with its head in front.

CITYpromotion

If you’ve been fortunate enough to experience the thrill of horseracing and, better still, backed a winner then you’ll know the adrenaline rush it gives you. Well, imagine the thrill of knowing that you own the winning horse. Racehorse ownership is no longer just reserved for the elite. Many partnerships and syndicates are available to help spread the costs but still enable you to enjoy the full involvement of owning a racehorse.

The first winner I ever had was better than taking 10 wickets at a test match Michael Holding, ex-international cricketer and racehorse owner

When you become an owner, you become a member of an exclusive club, and, you’ll be in good company: Michael Owen, Freddie Flintoff, Lawrence Dallaglio and Sir Alex Ferguson are all racehorse owners, as well as Her Majesty the Queen. There’s the fun of buying your horse, picking a name, choosing your colours, watching your horse train on the gallops and, of course, the thrill and anticipation of being in the paddock before and after a race, listening in as your trainer discusses tactics with your jockey. Watching your horse run is exhilarating from the moment the stalls open. Win or lose, the experience is electrifying and, by owning a racehorse, you’re right in the thick of it

EXCLUSIVE EVENT: 28 JULY, 2010

To give readers the chance to experience the thrill of horseracing, we have teamed up with Racing for Change, Sandown Park and Champagne Lanson, to offer a VIP experience at the races on the evening of Wednesday, 28 July, 2010. Held in one of Sandown Park’s finest hospitality suites, we ensure that you will be close to the action and all the amenities; with truly spectacular views of the racing whether it’s on the plasma screens or from the private balcony. Tote betting is within the suite too. For just £25, the usual price of entry only to the racecourse, you’ll be treated as a VIP with a champagne reception, courtesy of Lanson, canapés, and an evening of high-quality horseracing. Channel 4 Racing’s Emma Spencer will be your glamorous host for the evening and you will be in the company of a select band of owners, jockeys and trainers, who will give you their first-hand knowledge and experience of racehorse ownership. Sandown Park is the nearest racecourse to the centre of London and takes just 25 minutes from Waterloo, with fast trains every 20 minutes. So join us for an excellent evening’s racing, enjoy some fantastic hospitality and find out more about racehorse ownership.

Going to the races is fantastic but if you own a horse it just amplifies it Ronan Keating, singer and racehorse owner

Great if you win. Bad if you lose. But still great. James Nesbitt, actor and racehorse owner

Places are strictly limited, so to guarantee your ticket to this exclusive event, go to: www.sandown.co.uk/ cityoffer and type in the following code: SPCITY10. Offer closes at 4pm, Monday, 26 July, 2010

Channel 4 Racing’s Emma Spencer

gadgets

Jamie Carter presents the month’s hottest gadgets

Called to the bar

Apple might be grabbing the headlines with the launch of its iPad, but it’s the iPod dock market that’s really booming. It’s been dominated by budget brands commanding £100 prices until recently, but now the big Japanese brands are beginning to dominate with higher quality efforts. Pioneer’s NAS-5 is such a product, but it goes up against some stiff competition. Panasonic’s compact SCHC40 (£225) has a built-in microphone in case someone calls while your iPhone is ensconced in the 40W dock, while with Yamaha’s PDX-50 (£150) you can keep your iPhone or iPod in your hand – music is sent wirelessly to the 30W speaker unit via a small cradle on the phone itself. The NAS-5 lacks both of those innovative features; it’s all about style and the quality of music. Weighing just 5kg and small enough to fit on a bookshelf (at 42 cm across), the unit

new gadgets

itself is available in metallic red, black, silver or white, though the top’s gloss finish does tend to store fingerprints. On the top is a small flap that hides a connector that will fit iPhones (first generation models being the exception) and any iPod made after 2006. In practice, an iPod Touch proves the best fit. Two 15W front speakers sit behind a black, soft-touch speaker grille, separated by a red LED display – also behind the grille – that shows the time (in standby) or the input you’re using (iPod, FM tuner, line-in, or music Bluetoothed from a phone or PC).

Pioneer XW-NAS5 digital speaker system for iPod/iPhone, £450 www.pioneer.co.uk

Panasonic TX-P42G20 42-inch plasma TV with built-in Freeview HD, £999 www.panasonic.co.uk

3View Freeview HD set-top box, £299 www.3view.com

Though it charges an iPhone or iPod sitting in its dock, the former must be in ‘airplane’ mode – a mode that prevents you taking any calls while you’re listening to music – and the latter’s WiFi must be switched off before any music can be played from it. The power of its speakers impresses – they’re plenty enough to grace any living room – and are joined by something rare at this size and price; a 30W subwoofer. That helps lend music a dollop of bass, but subtly so, although using the credit card-sized remote to adjust treble and bass levels does prove tricky. The FM tuner proves simple enough to operate, though we would expect a digital DAB tuner at this price, while a basic alarm clock with snooze, wake-up and sleep functions is useful – though a speaker system of this power and quality does seem overkill for a bedside table. For a living room, though, this one-trick gadget is a treat.

calibre gadgets

Core principles

Organic matters

What’s not been said about Apple’s latest suave gadget? Leave aside its 13.4mm depth, its 68g weight and all those lovely Apps, and ask yourself this question: is it any good for use around the office? If you’re used to Windows Mobile or Blackberry and haven’t yet migrated to an iPhone, you’re probably worried about file compatibility. Apple is now selling cheap Apps for its iWork suite of desktop software, which includes the ability to read Microsoft Office documents. Expect a range of Apps aimed at business users, though for now it’s web surfing, video, music and ebooks that it’s best for.

Before the world economy took a turn for the worse, the big Japanese manufacturers were on the brink of launching a whole new flat TV technology called OLED. Although Sony did launch a 9-inch Organic LED screen in 2007, it’s now been dropped, leaving LG’s brand new 15EL9500 the only TV of its kind in the world. A mere 3.2mm thin, this 15-inch HD-ready is unlike any other; think luscious and blur-free pictures, studded with inky blacks and stunning colours. There’s a Freeview TV tuner inside alongside a USB slot, but the major reasons to invest in tomorrow’s TV tech today are the 15EL9500’s unusual style and unbeatable pictures. The downside is the size – and that huge price tag.

Apple iPad with WiFi, from £600 www.apple.com/uk

LG 15EL9500 15-inch OLED TV, £1,900 www.lge.co.uk

Three-into-one

virtual perfection

Three-D is all the rage at cinemas across the UK, and it’s now coming to living rooms, thanks to Samsung’s new 3D Blu-ray deck. One of the first of its kind, it’s able to produce 3D images from special 3D Blu-ray discs. They might be thin on the ground so far – only Monster vs Aliens was available at time of writing – but expect a slew of new releases this year. In all other respects a ‘normal’ player, the BD-C6900 can spin regular Blu-ray discs, DVD and CD. Also able to get online using WiFi, the BD-C6900 can stream video from YouTube and, soon, video from BBC iPlayer.

Finally there’s a television that delivers a picture so stunning that it looks and feels more real than reality. It’s the Samsung LED UE46C7000. With its explosive 3D capabilities and immersive HyperReal Engine, it delivers the world as you’ve never seen it before. Its LED screen amplifies images to such an extent that it’s hard to believe they’re coming out of an ultra-slim TV. Richer colours, smoother motion and mega contrast levels combine to make an unparalleled viewing experience. So whether you’re watching your favourite television programs, web content or a video you shot yourself, it was designed to blow your mind.

Samsung BD-C6900 3D Blu-ray player, £349 www.samsung.co.uk

Samsung 46” 3D Freeview HD LED TV £1,999 Exclusive Package Deals at PRC www.prcdirect.co.uk

Panasonic DMP-B100 8.9-inch portable Blu-ray player, £349 www.panasonic.co.uk

Sony Bravia KDL-32EX703 32-inch Full LED TV with built-in Freeview HD, £849 www.sony.co.uk

Immortal World sunglasses with built-in video camera and 4GB capacity, £249.99 www.imortalworld.co.uk

interiors fashion health & fitness

savannah style sunrise beach . ................................. great runs

. .......................................

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Bulletproof Body

Inspired by icons of power, strength and performance, the new Vertu Ascent phone combines sleek design with enhanced features to complement a fast-paced lifestyle

ushing its material expertise to the limit, the market leader in luxury phones, Vertu, has for the first time deployed aerospace grade aluminium in the engineering of their full handset casings. A material with very specific characteristics and more closely associated with Formula 1 and aerospace applications, aluminium delivers strength as well as lightweight performance. The Ascent casing is heat-treated in a process known as precipitation hardening, producing microscopic changes in the aluminium, which can

double the strength of the alloy. Further enhancing these properties, the parts are then anodised â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a process that transforms the surface, creating a layer five times harder than the raw material. With authenticity and attention to detail integral to the Vertu identity, the Ascent features precise time keeping technology teamed with a unique interpretation of the chronograph clock face, synonymous with and inspired by motor racing and military aviation. The Ascent combines the ultimate in technology and luxury. n For more information visit www.vertu.com

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interiors

concierge

Must BUY: Harrods

interiors

Make hitting the pillow after a long day at work all the more appealing with Harrods this month. The store will open their brand new Luxury Linens Room on 1 June, showcasing new collections from designer brands such as Etro, Missoni, and Versace, in addition to exclusive collections by Sonia Rykiel and Portault. There’s also a new Classic Linens section opening too... I know where I’ll be spending my hard-earned cash this summer!

news Honey Tree

Planning an impressive summer party, getting married or moving house? Be sure to get online this month and browse though the impressive range of stationery at Honey Tree Publishing. The UK’s first illustrated and personalised stationery website allows you to create your own bespoke stationery from their collection of great hand-drawn illustrations. All stationery is printed at their studio in Somerset on premium card and paper from sustainable sources. There is a free gift-wrap service on all stationery and the company delivers direct to your door. What more could you ask for? 0844 335 0620 www.honeytreepublishing.com

020 7730 1234 www.harrods.com

Illustrated and personalised Correspondence Cards £39 for 25

Crown Paint Calling all eco-warriors … make a difference to your home or office space this month and reduce your environmental impact with a stroke of a brush. If you’re planning a bit of redecoration but consider yourself to be one of the environmentally conscious amongst us, why not try the new earthbalance® paint by Crown? This 99 per cent solvent-free Breatheasy® formulation is manufactured in the UK, and comes nicely packaged in a 56 per cent recycled steel pack that is 100 per cent recyclable. Even the samples are printed on FSC paper and are 100 per cent recyclable too! Enough of the eco statistics – the paints come in a gorgeous range of 24 colours, 18 of which are new and exclusive to earthbalance®. 0870 240 1127 www.crownpaint.co.uk

Covent Garden Collection is by Anne De Solene, from £37.95

must visit: Go Modern

Go Modern is moving! But don’t panic – they’re not going far. In fact, they’re moving to a beautiful three-floor townhouse, 565 King’s Road. As well as showcasing an impressive contemporary European furniture collection, the move will coincide with the launch of a new children’s bedroom collection, new kitchens, walk-in and fitted wardrobes, eco-friendly fires and a great selection of contemporary outdoor furniture and lighting. 0845 652 0332 www.gomodern.co.uk

Crown earthbalance® Hedgerow, £15.98 for 2.5 litres

Guissepina dining chair, £190, by Bonaldo at Go Modern

the trend

This month, Sim Smith takes inspiration from the sun drenched African plains of the Savannah, tobacco coloured sands and indigenous creatures. From polished horn handles to zebra inspired wallpapers this trend will have you experiencing the very best that Africa has to offer safe in the comfort of your own living room Romantic Heroes trimmings, from £38 per metre Mulberry Home, 01202 266800, www.mulberyhome.com

Coral Shell room essence, £8.80, Ortigia 020 7 487 4684, www.ortigia-srl.com

Sussex butler’s tray, £2,850, Ralph Lauren Home 020 7535 4600, www.ralphlaurenhome.com

4006 Fairbanks cabinet in American Walnut by Bill Sofield, £13,965.78, Baker, 020 782 33612 www.bakerfurniture.com Printed cowhide Africa rug, £871, Ligne Roset 020 7429 9670 , www.ligne-roset-city.co.uk

Smoke fired ceramic pots by Joanna Still, from £380, eskandar, 020 7351 7333, www.eskandar.com

interiors

concierge

Horn door handle in dark bronze, £1,200, Soane 020 7730 6400, www.soane.co.uk

Brass Anne lantern in antique bronze finish £2,914, Christopher Hyde, 020 7351 0893 www.christopherhyde.com

Kilim trunk coffee table, £1,595 Andrew Martin, 020 7225 5105 www.andrewmartin.co.uk

Linen Rosenau sofa in cream, £4,667, Boiler Co 020 7352 9578, www.bolierco.com

Bronzé Pioche table lamp, £998, Porta Romana 01420 23005, www.portaromana.co.uk

Zebra (Foil) wallpaper in sepia blue, £107.90 per roll, Neisha Crosland at Turnell & Gigon 020 7259 7280, www.tandggroup.com

think outside the

BOX

Clockwise from above: Tiger skin lily, 1995 © Mat Collishaw Souvenir © Howard Hodgkin After Lunch © Howard Hodgkin Opposite: Concorde © Wolfgang Tillman

art & culture

concierge

Carol Cordrey takes a look behind the doors of some of our most prominent corporate art collections and looks at the benefits the collections have brought to employees, to the public and to the art world

ollections usually emerge as a result of a single person’s passion for art. In the case of international law firm, Simmons & Simmons, that person was Stuart Evans who, since childhood, had held a fascination for the way artists saw and interpreted the world. His opportunity to devote some of his time as a busy lawyer into nurturing an art collection eventually took root after he was made a partner, and shocked his fellow partners by proposing that buying contemporary art was one way to distinguish Simmons & Simmons from other firms. They thought the idea an odd one, not least of all because law firms usually had traditional landscapes and portraits on select office walls – but Evans got his way. It was the late 1980s and, armed with a very modest budget, his own knowledge and that of a dealer friend, he began purchasing a diverse range of small, original works by British artists such as Damien Hirst, the late David Bomberg and Tracey Emin, as well as affordable prints by British and American artists that included Howard Hodgkin and Roy Lichtenstein. “I became a committee of one, building the collection in my spare time. As it grew, the staff would read about artists’ work in the press and think, ‘We’ve got one of those!’” reflects Evans.

Evans’ aim had been to create a diverse collection of work... inspire or challenge the minds of the staff and encourage them to ‘think outside the box’

A year on, staff were asked for their views on the collection which by now included some very challenging images. Unsurprisingly, not everyone loved every piece of art but, overall, the feedback was positive; so Evans found himself with a gradually burgeoning budget that enabled him to increase the collection and to amass a number of parallel collections. Art in the firm’s Lisbon office comprises a photographic collection, plus work themed around water and exploration; the Frankfurt office acquired a variety of landscapes. Evans’ aim had been to create a diverse collection of work by emerging and established artists that would not simply decorate the office walls, but inspire or challenge the minds of the staff and encourage them to ‘think outside the box’ on the subjects of art, law and client relationships. Clearly, that would benefit the firm in the long term, but in the short term Simmons & Simmons also gained from the provision of legal services to some of its current artists. That included advising Damien Hirst on the venue for his In and Out of Love show, and his later dispute with Humbrol over intellectual property rights relating to his sculpture, Hymn; Tracey Emin became a client and paid for her legal advice by presenting the firm with her neon text piece, Trust Me; and Michael Craig-Martin and Michael Landy received property law advice. Relationships in the wider art world were also cemented, such as the Frieze Art Fair, which the firm supported by providing legal services. Financial gain was not the principal aim of the collection,

though having bought work by a number of artists who subsequently became Turner Prize nominees and winners – Mark Wallinger and Chris Ofili amongst them – the value of the collection increased significantly. One of the best causes for such a celebration was the painting Iron Hill by Peter Doig, which the collection sold in 2005 having been offered 70 times the price Evans originally paid for it. Over the years, it was decided that the art collection should be multinational to reflect the firm’s international presence. As a result, purchases by Evans have helped to support artists overseas: Germany’s Wolfgang Tillmans and Italy’s Flavio de Marco, as well as many others now join British and American artists in enjoying the exposure that Simmons & Simmons offers them. That exposure encompasses press coverage (such as this) and being seen by the firm’s prestigious clients, which, in turn, can lead to future exhibition opportunities and sales. The public and special interest groups are also encouraged to enjoy the collection through art tours which Evans organises. All those years ago, Stuart Evans may have found himself surrounded by sceptical partners, but his shrewd judgement and passion for art has produced a collection that undoubtedly distinguishes Simmons & Simmons from their competitors, and must surely make its partners beam with pride today. n For further information, visit www.simmonsandsimmons.com or email sje@lodeveans.com for information about tours

Fdetail ine

Josephine Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Donoghue talks to artist Dominic Murray about his career so far, artistic style and day-to-day inspirations

interiors

concierge

concierge interiors

the address book

Sim Smith visits ‘yummy mummy land’ for the day on Northcote Road SW11

La Cuisiniere With shelves piled high with gorgeous bakeware and pots and pans filling the space above my head, I quickly realised that I had entered domestic goddess heaven. You can find everything here from Turkish-style coffee pots to brightly glazed tagines, in addition to the great range of Le Creuset on show. Pieces are also available to hire for specific occasions, and there’s a really useful knife sharpening service on offer too. Due to its huge success, the store has opened two sister branches of equally appealing status; the specialist bakeshop filled with everything you could possibly need to ensure your cakes will be the talk of the town for months on end, and the interiors shop, also based on the Northcote Road, is well worth a visit if you’re gift hunting or looking for a new addition for your home. 81–83 Northcote Road 020 7223 4487

Braemar Antiques An enchanting little turquoise-coloured shop sat on a corner plot of the Northcote Road plays home to Braemar Antiques. An Aladdin’s cave of sparkling chandeliers, old china and decorative trinkets, this is any nostalgic home lover’s dream. The company specialises in 19th century antiques, handpicked by its Austrian owner from all over Europe. There is a charming selection of mirrors, photograph frames and textiles to be seen, but my favourite by far are the delicate pieces of furniture on display; dressing tables, writing desks and the odd imposing wardrobe. An absolute must-visit if you are after something that little bit special. 113 Northcote Road, Battersea 020 7924 5628, www.braemar-antiques.com

Northcote Gallery The Northcote Gallery has become somewhat of an institution on the Battersea scene. It first opened its doors in 1992, showcasing an impressive array of Modern British and international paintings and sculpture. This bright white space, complete with beautiful original floors and friendly resident dog, presents both an ever-changing selection of work by resident artists and an exciting calendar of new exhibitions held throughout the year. There is a lovely outside space to the back, the perfect setting for consultations over warmer summer months, and a great place to let children loose while you’re having a browse. There is a real selection of work on show from beautifully painted landscapes by Dion Salvador Lloyd, to more contemporary works on glass by Tim Garwood. If you’re after an even larger selection, why not pop across the river to their sister gallery on the Kings Road to sample the full Northcote experience? 110 Northcote Road 020 7924 6741 www.northcotegallery.com

Major specialties include: - Acute Neuro Rehabilitation - Bariatric Surgery - Cardiac Surgery - Critical Care - Dermatology - Interventional Cardiology - ENT - Gastroenterology - General Surgery - Gynaecology - Liver and Hepatobiliary Medicine

The Wellington Hospital is one of the world’s leading private

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• a range of minimally invasive surgical procedures that are performed through one incision in the belly button, which is virtually scarless surgery • a 45-bedroom Acute Neuro Rehabilitation Unit, which is the best equipped and most extensive in the UK • the largest Critical Care facility in the private sector The hospital has a dedicated GP Liaison service giving GPs and patients easy, fast access to the hospital’s extensive services & facilities. For further information please contact the Helpline:

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5266 HCA Well Canary Wharf advert.indd 1

21/12/09 13:25:53

fashion

concierge

SUMMER SUEDE To offset the understated elegance of spring’s feminine fashions, this month demands statement accessories in vivid colours that promise and beckon a hot and lively Indian summer. With style icon Sarah Jessica Parker already snapping up the gold-studded Domino bag, the vibrant style of Sonia Rykiel’s new accessories collection is perfectly suited to this purpose. Fashioned in sumptuous, soft suede in delicious pinks, purples and greens, this collection is a summer must-have.

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GET GRAPHIC

Unearthing inspiration from the unlikeliest places, this season saw several designers producing vividly detailed graphic prints, some stylised and many with a distinct computerised edge, but all fantastic and fanciful. Leading the trend for graphic prints was Alexander McQueen’s highly conceptual hallucination of a primordial world. Featuring stunning prints of all manner of natural wonder from entomology to exoskeletons, McQueen’s designs ranged from dramatic prints of marine creatures, to a subtle watercolour wash of praying mantis. Stand out from the crowd with one of Mary Katrantzou’s vivacious patterns in voluptuous shapes, or give your look a sophisticated flash of colour with one of Mungo Gurney’s beautiful silk scarves. Inspired by the bright lights of vibrant Vegas and Tokyo, the intoxicated fluidity and motion of these colourful creations are sure to set your soul on fire.

Available from Sonia Rykiel 27–29 Brook street, London 020 7493 5255

Sonia Rykiel Bessy Suede Shoe

Sonia Rykiel Baby Scarlett Suede Bag

All available from www.brownsfashion.com

Quote of the month: 1 Creative Archives Mungo Gurney Silk Scarf with vegas lights print

In difficult times fashion is always outrageous

2 Alexander McQueen Agate 3 Mary Katrantzou ‘Lava’ Dress 4 Mary Katrantzou Strapless Fan Dress

MUST-HAVE ITEM

Elsa Schiaparelli

Website of the month:

The Bloom Clog

Teaming a slate blue leather strap (for a hint of this season’s denim trend) with the shoe shape du jour, the Bloom Clog has a lightweight and modest heel, making it (both in practical and aesthetic terms) a winning take on the current clog trend. www.kindredsole.com

www.pollyanna.com

When the clog trend first came stomping into view, I for one was not prepared to fall for their clunky charms. And yet, I must confess that when the delicious new Bloom Clog came teetering onto the summer scene, I was forced to eat my words.

Offering a carefully chosen selection of well-known and “in the know” designer labels from Dries Van Noten to Van Der Straeten, the website for infamous boutique Pollyanna is a hidden gem. With collections divided and displayed in a minimal and modern manner, this is a great website for those who want their shopping experience to be as sleek and serene as the deliciously directional items they buy.

TREND of the month: DENIM This season has seen underrated denim return to the forefront as a major trend. Cute, sassy, playful and chic; denim has taken on every guise imaginable and no summer wardrobe would be complete without at least one wellchosen item. Joseph’s Donegal linen kiki jacket has all the indigo charm of denim, with a simple, sophisticated shape and slightly frayed detailing for a touch of the rustic glamour of the catwalk looks. www.joseph.co.uk

sunrise BEACH Photographer:

Peter Zownir Fashion Editor:

Lucie Dodds

Navy triangle bikini, ÂŁ280, La Perla Mare www.laperla.com

Stripe Cara swimsuit, ÂŁ132, Elizabeth Hurley Beach www.elizabethhurley.com

Navy halter-neck Haiti bikini, ÂŁ145, Melissa Odabash www.odabash.com

Navy cashmere ribbed Henley jumper, ÂŁ89, Pure Cashmere www.purecollection.com Stripe Hamptons bikini, ÂŁ 165, Heidi Klein, 0845 206 2000 www.heidiklein.com

Stripe dress, £225, Milly at Harrods, 020 7730 1234 White Miguel aviator, £249, Tom Ford at Harvey Nichols Knightsbridge, 010 7235 5000, www.tomford.com

With Thanks to: Jeff at Head South Lodge www.headsouthlodge.co.za Tempest Car Hire www.tempestcarhire.co.za and Digital Brothers Cape Town www.digitalbrothers.co.za

Hair: Yvette Redmond at Tiger Creative using Kiehl’s: weightless curl defining spray super thick volumiser and creme with silk groom. Make-up: Yvette Redmond at Tiger Creative using Sunlea Soin Solaire anti-age SPF 15 Super Fluide Solaire Corps SPF 30, Super Soin Aprés-Soleil Soin Teinté Phyto-Hydratant Phytocernes + Anti-cernes Anti-poches, Baume Efficace Contour des Yeux et des Levres Eau Florale, Phyto-Blush Eclat Phyto-Touches de Sisley, PhytoTouche Or Huile Seche Pailletée Sisley Touch in golden touch Phyto-Mascara Ultra-Volume Phyto-Khol Perfect in Black 01 and Phyto-Lip Eclat soin des levres in 2 hibiscus, all by Sisley. Production: Solar Productions danielle@solarproductions.co.za +27 83 676 1577

THE GREATEST RACE MEETING IN THE WORLD Fine dining packages from ÂŁ235 per person. Quote City01 to receive 10% off all packages* Call 0844 411 5075, email hospitality@ascot.co.uk or visit ascot.co.uk Attire: Ladies - Vivienne Westwood, Gentlemen - Gieves & Hawkes Millinery: Ladies - Stephen Jones, Gentlemen - Lock & Co Photography: Finlay Mackay *Subject to availabilty

03798W51_RA_RUNWILD_City01.indd 1

24/03/2010 17:12

Raindance

Travel Chic The classic Smythson travel wallet comes with a versatile twist; remove the dividers and you can use it as a chic clutch bag. Featuring soft mimosa yellow goatskin leather and natural horn clasps, this sophisticated collection is sure to bring a muchneeded dose of colour to your summer accessories. Mimosa Travel Clutch, £420 Smythson 7 Royal Exchange 020 7621 1037 www.smythson.com

Boodles is delighted to launch a celebratory collection this season: the iconic Raindance design is now 10 years old and the signature ring has the honour of joining the permanent jewellery collection at the Victoria & Albert Museum. For a bolder statement piece, the oneoff Raindance bracelet combines coloured stones and diamonds to stunning effect; star sapphires, mint green tourmalines and aquamarines. Raindance bracelet, £90,000 Boodles 2 & 3 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 7283 7284 www.boodles.co.uk

Ladiesday In the run up to Royal Ascot, the Royal Exchange has the perfect selection of chic summer accessories

Floral Basket South Sea Pearls For women in search of elegance and glamour, Milleperle recommends their stunning south sea pearls as the perfect finishing touch to any outfit. Pearls have been the preferred choice of royalty for centuries and these stunning jewels will make any woman feel like a princess - timeless elegance is always a winner! South Sea necklace, POA

Lulu Guinness’ show-stopping Flower Cylinder bag was inspired by the designer’s classic Florist baskets but re-worked for the brand’s 20th anniversary into a more contemporary shape. 100% female-friendly, it fits a blackberry, credit card and lipstick inside. What more could a girl want? Neon Cylinder Rose bag £395 Lulu Guinness 23 Royal Exchange 020 7626 5391 www.luluguinness.com

Milleperle 8 Royal Exchange 020 7621 1118 www.milleperle.co.uk

Sparkling Halo

The new De Beers Aura collection sees classic and elegant designs paired with exquisite craftsmanship and peerless heritage in the selection of diamonds. The delicate Halo stud earrings feature selected round brilliant diamonds set in a halo of platinum diamond pavé for a playful and sophisticated take on the classic diamond stud. Halo studs, from £5,180 De Beers 13 The Courtyard Royal Exchange 020 7929 2777 www.debeers.com

AGENT PROVOCATEUR || ARTISAN | BOODLES || BULGARI || CARTIER || CHURCH’S || CROCKETT & JONES || DE BEERS || GRAND CAFÉ AND BAR || GUCCI || HERMÈS || IMPERIAL CITY || JO MALONE || L’OCCITANE || LORO PIANA || LULU GUINNESS || MILLEPERLE || MOLTON BROWN || MONT BLANC || NAPKET || OMEGA || PAUL A. YOUNG FINE CHOCOLATES || PAUL SMITH || PAVAROTTI’S || PENHALIGON’S || PRETTY BALLERINAS || ROYAL EXCHANGE JEWELLERS || SAUTERELLE || SEARLE & CO || SMOKER’S PARADISE || SMYTHSON || TATEOSSIAN || THEO FENNELL || TIFFFANY & CO || Vilebrequin || WATCHES OF SWITZERLAND || WINT & KIDD

Royal Exchange, Bank, City of London, EC3V 3LR

www.theroyalexchange.co.uk

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health & fitness

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Full Analysis

health & fitness

news Fitness Finesse

One of London’s most exclusive luxury health clubs, the Chelsea Club combines first-class facilities with a smart, friendly atmosphere. As well as a 4,000 sq ft gym spread over two rooms, it has three workout studios ideal for yoga, Pilates, spinning, body pump and other fitness classes. An elevated 200m running track surrounds the first floor, and a stunning 25m pool lies in the naturally lit basement, along with the sauna, Jacuzzi and steam room. Located within the Stamford Bridge stadium complex, the Chelsea Club remains spacious and welcoming at any time of day, every day of the week.

www.homedics.com

Baring All The Chelsea Club Aerobic Room

www.thechelseaclub.com

The Chelsea Club Pool

Keep up the Pace Getting the most out of your training doesn’t always mean working faster or harder. The best way to improve fitness and see results is to train at the right intensity, and the new FT7 and FT4 monitors help you do just that. Simply put on a comfortable Polar WearLink textile transmitter, and you’re ready to enjoy whatever sport you want. The FT4 is perfect for those who want to keep their training simple with the basic heart rate features. It shows when the user is improving their fitness, giving a clear view of when the heart rate is in the desired zone. The FT7 gives clear training guidance and is the ideal choice for anyone wanting to enjoy their exercise sessions with an eye on achieving their goals. www.polarelectro.co.uk

Weighing yourself fully requires more than simply knowing your total body weight. The HoMedics MiBody 360 Analyser Scale helps you get to grips with every aspect of your body composition from calculating your Body Fat Percentage and Body Water to Muscle Mass, Body Mass Index and Basal Metabolic Rate. Six people can save their details on the scale and make regular assessments of their progress, with memory for 30 updates per user. The readings from the Analyser Scale can also be uploaded to your computer, allowing you to monitor your results on a regular basis.

When it comes to male hair removal, it’s often hard to choose the best method to de-fuzz. Shaving is short term and then there’s the stubble, while salon waxing can be expensive, awkward and painful, not to mention the issues of re-growth. Intense Pulse Light (IPL) is widely considered the most effective method of hair removal, but it demands tedious salon appointments. The technology used in the E>One resembles that found in the flash lamps used by professional IPL hair removal therapists. However, thanks to E-SWIN, this unique machinery has now been miniaturised, making salon quality results possible to obtain in the privacy of your own home. After 10–12 treatments skin should be completely hair free, with only one or two uses per year required to maintain the silky-smooth appeal. www.e-swin.com

Beat Bacteria It’s a scientific fact that sweat itself is odourless and that it’s bacteria on the skin reacting to sweat that creates a nasty whiff. Right Guard Xtreme Silver is the first antiperspirant deodorant with antibacterial silver molecules that tackles body odour at its source for 48 hours. Used with the Xtreme Silver deodorants, Xtreme Fresh shower gel guarantees to give users the freshest start to their day.

Brought to you in association with The Wellington Hospital, one of the world’s leading private hospitals. www.thewellingtonhospital.com

location, location, location To conclude our series on the Harley Street enclave, Louisa Castle looks at the strategy behind keeping this centre of excellence at the top of its field

arley Street is a hub of medical excellence, renowned across the world for its stateof-the-art technology and the experts that inextricably, sit together with that. That is not up for debate. But what is interesting is the path that has got this renowned street of Georgian architecture to where it is today. Not the deep historical angle though, interesting as it may be. We covered that in the first of this series. No the story I’m interested in is the most recent history; the last 15 years or so. Harley Street is owned by the Howard de Walden Estate, the roots of which date back to 1715 when Edward Harley, 2nd Earl of Oxford and Earl Mortimer, began to develop Cavendish Square and the streets around it. Under its watchful eye the street has evolved, as with any successful entity, to reflect the times and demands put upon it. The crucial aspect for the Estate is the effective management of both internal and, to as much of an extent as possible, the external factors. As custodians of Harley Street the daily challenge is to ensure that this reputation of medical excellence is retained, not so easy when you think that it also has to protect the period buildings in its care. The challenge is a continuous cycle; have clear direction, provide support to all clinics large and small, invest in the property and thus improve, maintaining the position of, arguably, ‘best in the world’. One analogy would be of a hamster on a wheel, the goal constantly changing so that the best remains. As you take a walk down this centre of medical excellence, you can’t really imagine what is hidden behind the facades and the planning and time that goes into being

health & fitness

able to provide this centre. Last December saw the arrival of a state-of-the-art cancer centre, built by The London Clinic in association with the Howard de Walden Estate. It was a culmination of seven years of planning and “the driving force was to be the best at whatever we do,” states Malcolm Miller, chief executive of The London Clinic. Part of this centre is a piece of robotic radiosurgery technology that targets tumours with high dose radiation and with pinpoint precision. The CyberKnife, can monitor patient’s breathing so it can adjust to keep the beam fixed on a precise point while the body moves and it uses higher doses than in the past without damaging healthy tissue. There are only two in the world and Harley Street is home to one. With such equipment comes major structural demands, 1.5m thick walls containing leadite to contain the radiation, for example, not to mention the patients needs – an integrated cancer centre so that they didn’t have to go elsewhere for other treatments. Seven years of planning and development later this project supports the ongoing strategy to keep Harley Street at the forefront of world medical excellence. I am also sure there are other long term plans being worked on that are not for my ears nor my comprehension (nano technology and protein therapy are the next breakthroughs for medical science and specifically oncology, I hear). With all this evolution and all these medical breakthroughs, why does Harley Street sometimes get picked on in the press, alongside the whole debate about private healthcare? Is it jealousy? Or is it all about life choices? If you’re good at something you’re going to get picked on. You’re a target. People want to be you and have what you have. Is it any different in this ‘Street’? And if this ‘Street’ attracts the wealthy from all around the world why do we complain? With them comes a family or friend, hotel accommodation, food, drink, the possible night out or two, all being poured into our economy. And let’s be perfectly honest, whatever your political affinity, we need a little help to get rid of the deficit that’s hanging around our neck. In attracting the best in the world Harley Street attracts the world but the medical excellence permeates through to our National Health Service (NHS) too, about 90% of consultants also have positions at teaching hospitals across the UK and the world. As for private health care, I have only recently ploughed my way through reams of paperwork and websites offering me private medical insurance, for a fee. After much debate and research, I can conclude that it is a life decision. I only have one body and brain and I’d like to make sure I keep it as well as possible for as long as possible – when it comes to dealing with your health you want the very best. For me the price varied from £50 to £80 per month. So, personally, a choice of Sky television, a cleaner or private medical insurance? I know which makes more sense to me... n

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Above: State of the art cancer treatment at The London Clinic

For more information on Harley Street, visit www.harleystreet.com For more information about the Howard de Walden Estate visit www.hdwe.co.uk

ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON ROYAL PARKS HALF MARATHON WITH RIGHT TO PLAY 10.10.10 Run 13.1 miles through London’s iconic parks including Hyde Park, St James’ Park, Green Park and Kensington Gardens. Enter as a team or as an individual with the official charity of the Royal Parks Half Marathon this October and improve the lives of children on Right To Play’s programmes around the world. Run the Royal Parks Half Marathon with your colleagues to foster team spirit and deliver your Corporate Social Responsibility programme. Your company logo and description will appear on our website. All Corporate teams running for Right To Play will be offered branded running vests and the opportunity to man a cheering point on the day with colleagues wishing to support your team. Your team will benefit from: Training tips, free team running vests, fundraising support, post race reception & free massage. Right To Play’s vision is to create a healthier and safer world using the power of sport and play. We work with over 700,000 children in refugee camps, disadvantaged communities and slums, equipping local teachers and coaches with the skills to harness the best values of sport – respect, teamwork, leadership and fair play - to impart life-saving lessons on conflict prevention, HIV/ AIDs awareness, inclusion and children’s rights. Young people that take part in Right To Play programmes are healthier, better educated and happier than their peers. Our goal is to widen access to Right To Play programmes, giving more children than ever before the chance to play and learn through sport. Sign Up Now: £45 per person entry fee £450 fundraising pledge per person

Email: halfmarathon@righttoplay.com 0207 812 0635

WWW.RIGHTTOPLAY.ORG.UK REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 1112404

MATTERS OF THE HEART Experts at the Wellington Hospital talk to us about trans-catheter aortic valve implantation Trans-catheter Aortic Valve Implantation: TAVI is a minimally invasive ‘keyhole’ procedure for treating narrowed aortic valves As many of you reading this may already know, the aorta is the main artery coming out of the heart, carrying blood to the whole of the body (see Figure 1). The aortic valve sits at the junction between the heart and the aorta – each time the heart beats, it contracts, pumping blood though the aortic valve which then opens to let blood through before closing to prevent blood flowing back into the heart.

THE ARTIFICIAL VALVES There are two different types of valve, the Sapien Transcatheter Heart Valve made by Edwards Lifesciences (www.edwards.com) and the CoreValve made by Medtronic (www.medtronic. com) – both are made up of, or consist of, soft pliable valve leaflets attached to a rigid frame.

In these patients trans-catheter aortic valve implantation is an excellent alternative. The procedure was first performed in 2003 and it is currently reserved for elderly patients and for those in whom the risks of conventional surgery are high. It is limited to these groups because we do not know the long term outcome (5+ years), but this is likely to change as the results of long term research studies become available.

There are two options; the transfemoral and the trans-apical approach. Usually the procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, but sometimes patients can be awake, using a local anaesthetic. The trans-femoral approach is where a wire is passed through a small cut in the skin and into the femoral artery at the top of the leg. The wire is then pushed up the artery to the heart, across the

In some people, the aortic valve can thicken and stiffen over time and this makes it more difficult for the heart to pump blood through the narrowed valve. This is what doctors refer to as ‘aortic stenosis’ and patients with this problem can also experience shortness of breath, chest pain on exertion, dizzy spells or collapses and sudden death. Conventional aortic valve replacement surgery is a tried and tested treatment with excellent results in many patients – but it is a major heart operation which involves opening the chest (a procedure known as a ‘sternotomy’) and going onto a heart-lung bypass machine. In some patients, the risks of such an operation are prohibitively high.

THE PROCEDURE

narrowed aortic valve and into the main pumping chamber of the heart (the left ventricle). The compacted replacement valve is tracked along this wire into position where it is expanded into shape, crushing the old valve to one side leaving the new valve in place. In some people the femoral arteries are too narrowed for the artificial valve to be passed through and the trans-apical approach is used. A small cut is made in the left side of the chest, where a wire is passed through, straight through the wall of the heart Figure 1: The human heart Figure 2: Edwards SAPIEN XT Transcathether Heart Valve

into the left ventricle and then across TM

the aortic valve. The compacted replacement valve is then tracked along the wire as per the trans-femoral approach. The hole in the heart is closed directly with stitches.

Side View

The Team TAVI procedures involve a team of experienced cardiologists, cardiac surgeons and anaesthetists who

Top View

all have substantial experience in performing the procedure. For further information and for details

The leaflets are made from bovine or porcine pericardial tissue and the frames, from either stainless steel or nitinol. The valves are compacted

of the consultants carrying out this procedure at The Wellington Hospital, please contact the hospital enquiry line on 020 7483 5148

down so that they can pass through

For more information, visit

smaller incisions.

www.thewellingtonhospital.com

Be a part of it

The Royal Parks Half Marathon London Sunday 10th October 2010

To sign up to Team Plan or for more details please visit: www.plan-uk.org/royalparkshalf or search ‘plan uk royal parks’ or call Kevin Machin on 0300 777 9777

By joining our team you will be helping Plan’s work as a major international children’s development agency. We work with children, families and communities in the world’s poorest countries and any funds you raise will help us carry out vital projects. These range from building schools, to drilling wells, to providing access to clean water. So why not grab a friend and sign up to be a part of our team? Charity No: 276035

Every day

100

people in the UK start to lose their sight

Fight for Sight is the UK’s leading charity dedicated to funding world class research into the prevention and treatment of blindness and eye disease. But we still need to do so much Thanks to our supporters our more. Can you help us to raise vital significant achievements include: funds for eye research? • establishing the UK Corneal Transplant Service enabling We have 40 guaranteed places for over 45,000 corneal the Royal Parks Foundation half transplants; marathon on 10 October 2010. • revolutionising the treatment for children with ambloyopia (lazy eye); and Phone Jo Bell on 020 7929 7755 or email • helping to fund the team jo@fightforsight.org.uk to book your place now! responsible for the world’s first gene therapy clinical trial for inherited eye disease. Registered charity number 1111438

c o r p o r at e c h a l l e n g e

Royal RACE DAY!

IT’S A

In partnership with Brakes, the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon is one of the most scenic and green summer races in London this year, says Claire Saunders

tarting and finishing in Hyde Park, the 13.1-mile Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon route runs across four of London’s most stunning and beautiful Royal Parks: Hyde Park, St. James’s Park, Kensington Gardens and Green Park. Providing a popular change from street marathons, the Royal Parks race is a refreshing run through the manicured grounds of some of London’s finest green spaces, taking in some of the capital’s most historic landmarks (including Buckingham Palace, Houses of Parliament, the London Eye and the Albert Memorial) en route between parks. The Royal Parks Foundation – the official charity for London’s eight Royal Parks – launched its eagerly anticipated 2010 Half Marathon earlier this year, in partnership with Brakes. The highly sought-after public individual race places in the 12,500-runner race sold out in a little over two and a half hours – just one indication of the popualarity of this fantastic event. In fact, it’s proven so much fun in recent years that celebrities including Gordon and Tana Ramsay, Ben Fogle, Tom Aikens, Tessa Sanderson, James Cracknell, Nell McAndrew, Bill Nighy, Charley Boorman and The Saturdays have all chosen to get involved over the years. Race day, which also features the Brakes Food & Fitness Festival for 40,000 spectators and supporters, is renowned for its carnival atmosphere and gets more popular every year, with runners entering from all around the UK and more than 29 countries worldwide.

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CORPORATE TEAM ENTRIES: • Corporate teams benefit from entering the race because: “Good food and regular exercise are key components of well-being, and the Half Marathon also offers people the chance to connect with nature and each other – at the same time as raising vital funds for charity,” says Sara Lom, Chief Executive of Royal Parks Foundation. “It’s a top UK sporting event with the ultimate ‘feelgood’ factor for both runners and supporters”. Each year the Royal Parks Foundation Half Marathon, supported by not-for-profit fundraising website virginmoneygiving.com, raises over £2.5m for vital causes around the UK, including The Royal Parks Foundation, the charity which helps protect and enhance the green spaces of London. The race also raises funds for over 160 partner charities, including Asthma UK, Help A London Child, Mind, Right To Play and UNICEF. Those wishing to take part in the event can still enter through race charities and the corporate challenge – so don’t hang around, and secure your place in one of London’s most exhilarating and adrenaline-fuelled endurance events! n For further information, route map, training tips and more, visit www.royalparkshalf.com

RACE SPONSORS Principal sponsor Brakes is joined by other race partners Nokia, Mizuno and Lucozade Sport, who will provide training and sports nutrition advice in the run up to race day. Matt Roberts and British Military Fitness will motivate runners in their quest for the finish line, and Marks & Spencer will help keep the race as green and sustainable as possible.

• Training together is a great way to be healthy, meet people from different departments and foster team spirit • Research shows that exercise helps clear the mind and make employees more productive • The opportunity could make your workforce even more loyal to your business • Your company logo and description will appear on our website, with a hyperlink to your website • Entering a team is a tangible expression of your company’s corporate social responsibility • The entry fee will benefit the Royal Parks Foundation and – if the runners raise funds for another cause on the day – then it will be a double benefit to charity • Even those who don’t fancy running can get involved with supporting their colleagues, helping them fundraise and coming along to cheer for them on race day, whilst also enjoying the free Brakes Food & Fitness Festival • Teams need to have a minimum of 6 runners – larger (or more enthusiastic!) workforces will be asked to sub-divide themselves into teams of 6–11 runners – which also gives you the opportunity to foster a little healthy competition between departments! • All runners must be over 17, agree to the overall ‘Race Rules’ and each runner must complete the full run (so no relays!) Each runner will be supplied with an official number, bamboo race shirt and timing chip before the day, although costume or company t-shirts are also encouraged • A prize will be awarded to the fastest team, calculated on the average completion time of the runners. In addition, all corporate team runners will be eligible for the individual prizes on offer • 6–10 runners £200 per runner (VAT exempt) Additional runners £195 per runner (VAT exempt)

Run to help Rufus get a head start... The National Deaf ChildrenÕ s Society has guaranteed places in the

Royal Parks Half Marathon. Four babies are born deaf every day in the UK. With every step you run you can make a difference and help a deaf child like Rufus take their first steps towards a brighter future. We will provide you with all the training and fundraising advice you need.

For more information or to register Text: NDCS London plus your name and email address to 80011 Visit: www.ndcschallenges.org.uk/royalparks Email: ndcschallenges@ndcs.org.uk NDCS is a registered charity in England and Wales no. 1016532 and in Scotland no. SC040779. Name has been changed to protect the identity of the child half page half marathon.indd 1

20/05/2010 14:01

Looking for a new

challenge?

Are you active, adventurous and passionate about animals? Then look no further. The Blue Cross has many fun challenges to offer.

Registered charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland)

For more information please contact Heather on 01993 825567 or visit www.bluecross.org.uk

M5656/0510

If you’re a runner or you’ve just started getting fit, why not choose to run the Royal Parks Half Marathon on Sunday 10 October. If you’re looking for an overseas challenge, you could join us horse trekking in Peru or canoeing in Tanzania.

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Running the

LENGTH AND BREADTH

Running for several decades across England’s coastline, the Bupa Great North and Great South Runs have gone from being a humble fun run to two of the most iconic long-distance races in the world. Eileen Elliot takes a look at the history and heritage of these great races

he Bupa Great Run franchise first warmed up its muscles with the Great North Run in 1981. Since then, it has grown and moved on in leaping strides to include organised runs in every corner of the country. With the Great North and Great South Runs still the main events and jewels in the franchise’s crown, they have become key events in the nation’s sporting calendar. The Great North Run was first devised as a fun run by British Olympian and BBC sports commentator, Brendan Foster. After running New Zealand’s famous Round the Bays Race in 1979, Foster was inspired by the beautiful scenery to devise a new challenge with stunning views to motivate runners through to a beautiful coastal finishing point. The route of the Great North Run has remained the same from the beginning, taking participants from the heart of northern England’s bustling metropolis, Newcastle, across the iconic Tyne Bridge, through Gateshead

and South Tyneside to the spectacular views of the North Sea coast at South Shields, where the race ends. For the inaugural race, the organisers expected a modest turnout of no more than 5,000 runners, and were pleasantly surprised to find over 12,500 applicants, a staggering 10,000 of whom completed the first ever Great North Run. From these impressive beginnings, the Great North Run has ignited interest and competitive curiosity in potential participants, growing steadily year on year, with more than 50,000 runners applying for the 20,000 places the following year, in 1982. In fact, demand for places has continued to outstrip supply so staggeringly that this year, for the 30th annual event, the Great North Run has seen record numbers of applications; even with the entry cap at 54,000, there have been over 100,000 applicants. The first-time applications have gone into six figures, so this year, to deal with the impressive demand, organisers have drawn a ballot to allocate places to successful applicants.

c o r p o r at e c h a l l e n g e

Riding high on the success of the Great North Run, organisers limbered up for new challenges, with a sister race, the Great South Run, starting right at the other end of the country, in 1990. The initial route started in Southampton, but moved the following year to neighbouring Portsmouth, where it has been ever since. The route takes runners on a loop around the coast of one of England’s most historic ports, offering spectacular sights of Portsmouth’s famous naval past, including views of HMS Warrior and HMS Victory, Nelson’s flagship, which played an important role in the battle of Trafalgar in 1805. Smaller than its imposing big sister, the Great South Run will still boast 22,000 runners this year, and is now acknowledged as Europe’s most popular 10-mile race. Over 164,000 people take part in the Great Run events each year, and statistics suggest that each year the composition of runners includes an estimated 70 per cent new participants; which means if past growth is anything to go by, the Great Run is due to continue growing in popularity year on year. In fact, the Great Run franchise has not only grown to include races in Edinburgh and Dublin, but has also now begun worldwide expansion, with events already taking place literally on the other side of the world in Australia. So now, the Great Run not only runs across the length and breadth of the country, but will no doubt soon be running across the four corners of the globe. Both races have seen, and made their

fair share of stars, from élite athletes to celebrity participants, including Hugh Dennis and Gordon Ramsay. Initially, the Great North Run saw home grown winners in both the men’s and women’s races, with Karen Goldhawk (a former South Shields Harrier) the first-ever female winner, and local athlete Mike McLeod winning the first two years in a row. Despite fighting talk at the start from English athletes, it was the late Benson Masya (who died at the age of 33 in 2003 after prolonged ill health) who stole the show. Occasionally losing out to fellow Kenyan, Moses Tanui, Masya won the Great North Run four times (more than any other competitor), and in 1994 set an impressive record of 1:00:02; a record that it took almost ten years to beat, with South African athlete Hendrick Ramaala only shaving one second off the time in 2003. Other stars of the Great Runs include Scottish star, Liz McColgan, who has won the Great North Run three times and the Great South Run twice. Although her number of wins is more modest than McColgan’s, English sporting legend Paula Radcliffe has also been one of the main stars of the Great Runs, breaking Grete Waitz’s 12-yearold record in the millennium year with a new European record of 67:07, and later breaking her own record with a world best and new record of 65:40. This year, the Great North Run will take place on Sunday 19 September and the Great South Run on Sunday 24 October, with both set to be the biggest and best yet. n www.greatrun.org

Overseas advert horizontal_Layout 1 02/06/2010 12:02 Page 1

Nightrider Cycle by moonlight around the spectacular City of London and help CHILDREN with LEUKAEMIA continue our fight against Britain’s most common childhood cancer. Be part of our 2011 Challenge team and cycle 100km around London at night taking in over 50 of the famous sights and key landmarks in the capital city on 9th July 2011. Join our team today and request your registration pack - contact Yvonne in the Events Team on 020 7404 0808 or email Yvonne@leukaemia.org

9th July 2011

You can also visit our website at www.leukaemia.org/what-you-can-do/fundraise-for-us/uk-challenges

Looking for a new

challenge?

Are you active, adventurous and passionate about animals? Then look no further. The Blue Cross has many fun challenges to offer.

Registered charity no: 224392 (England and Wales), SC040154 (Scotland)

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CITYpromotion

An opportunity to exchange suits for boots and briefcases for backpacks, this event will get you out of the City and into some of the most beautiful countryside the UK has to offer. The Challenge Covering 31km in a target time of 10 hours, participants will scale the three highest mountains in Yorkshire: Peny-ghent (694m), Whernside (736m), and Ingleborough (723m). Those taking part will climb over 5,000 feet (1,600 metres), taking in stunning scenery and an array of cultural heritage along the way. The three peaks form part of the renowned Pennine range, and encircle the head of the River Ribble Valley in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales. The Cause

LIMBER UP

FOR A GOOD CAUSE Leading overseas development agency CARE International invites City workers to take part in a demanding mountain event: the Yorkshire 3 Peaks Challenge

CARE fights global poverty and delivers emergency aid to survivors of war and natural disasters. CARE works with communities to improve basic education, prevent the spread of HIV, increase access to clean water and sanitation, improve maternal and child health, expand economic opportunity and protect natural resources. CARE, Microfinance and markets Without access to basic financial services, like insurance, loans and interest-earning savings, millions of the world’s poorest are left vulnerable, struggling, and with little chance of improving their lives. CARE helps poor communities find sustainable ways of earning a decent living. CARE provides basic financial services to millions of the world’s poorest people and helps develop and open new markets for them to sell their products in. CARE’s services help the poorest people grow their businesses and create new jobs. This allows them to get better food, clean water, healthcare, education and the ability to survive emergencies – raising whole communities out of poverty. Get involved In teams of three to six, participants will be asked to raise £500 per person for CARE. The funds you raise will assist the charity in helping over 59 million people a year find routes out of poverty. For example, your £500 could help a village in Uganda or Malawi to start a savings and loan group, providing them with all the equipment and training they need to form a committee, save money together and start making loans to support small local business activities. CARE staff will assist you at every stage of the challenge from sign-up to completion, with pre-event training and fundraising advice and support.

Above:

Mali Women’s Credit Group with Care Staff

Left:

Niger Three Women with Safeboxes

If you and your colleagues have what it takes, visit www.carechallenge.org.uk/yorkshire , email challenge@careinternational.org or call 020 7934 9470

Images courtesy of CARE/ Evelyn Hockstein

Challenge Yourself. Challenge Poverty. 87

RUN TO THE BEAT 2010 Have you already signed up to the event or are you looking for a place?

then this will help us to beat blood cancers including leukaemia, lymphoma and myeloma.

2010 is our 50th anniversary and we want We’re want get as many of you as it to be our best year ever! Remember the possible to join our Banana Army running more money raised equals the more lives team on 26 September 2010 and help saved. beat blood cancers. All of our runners receive a high quality Run to the Beat, London’s largest half Adidas running t-shirt or vest, a fundraising marathon that starts and finishes at pack and post race refreshments. London O2 Arena. Music is played all along the route that is scientifically If you would like to enter then please selected to improve your performance. contact Matt Lawley for an entry form: We have charity places available 020 7685 5128 There is no minimum fundraising amount mlawley@llresearch.org.uk per place but if everyone who has offered www.banana-army.com to support us raises at least £100 each

Macmillan has places available in Run to the Beat on 26 September and the Great South Run on 24 October. Or if you are looking to take the next step then you can join Team Macmillan in one of four world class marathons this Autumn: Berlin Marathon – 26 September Loch Ness Marathon - 3 October Dublin Marathon – 25 October New York Marathon – 7 November

run to

change lives

To secure your place in the above runs and for information on packages and how you can help Macmillan make a real difference to the lives of people affected by cancer contact running@macmillan.org.uk or call 020 7840 4915.

Macmillan Cancer Support, registered charity in England and Wales (261017), Scotland (SC039907) and the Isle of Man (604).

c o r p o r at e c h a l l e n g e

POUND THE STREETS A half-marathon with live music to motivate you around the 13.1 mile course – is this an easy feat or impossible task? Rebecca Walton looks more closely at Run to the Beat 2010

n 27 September 2009, 15,000 lycra clad bodies (or 30,000 trainer clad feet if you prefer) headed down to The O 2 all geared up to compete in London’s only half-marathon set to music – aptly titled Run to the Beat. All participants are cheered along the 13.1 mile course (which winds through Greenwich and South East London), by some of the best up-andcoming music acts around. 2009 saw London’s very own hip hop master of grime, Bashy, open and start the race, whilst indie pop princesses Von Kleet, the lads from West London, Dega Breaks, and DJ and solo singer Eliza Doolittle kept spirits high throughout the rest of the course. For anyone who thinks a halfmarathon is too much to manage, or is something they haven’t done before, Run to the Beat is definitely the best introduction to marathon running on offer in London. The live music acts are chosen by the team at City Showcase by specific genre, and the musical beats help improve motivation at the many different stages of the circuit. The various beats selected for the race provide a much needed boost by matching an appropriate tempo with each section of the course, thus increasing performance up to a remarkable 20%. “The run will be alive with sound as we deliver a kaleidoscope of motivational tunes along the entire length of the course, which will be stylishly interwoven throughout” says Dr Costas Karageorghis from Brunel University. “The music that will be played during the half marathon will be scientifically selected to lift moods, alleviate fatigue and match the physiological demands of the event, which increases as the finish line approaches.”

Dr Costas Karageorghis has 20 years of scientific research behind him, looking at the effects of music on physical performance. Studies show that running to the beat can help athletes raise their game by approximately ten percent which means that all the participants should be reaching their optimum performance level whilst enjoying the festival atmosphere and carnival crowd. This year the date is set as 26 September and places are filling up fast. Once again, the race starts at the world famous O2 and the 13.1 mile route will be lined with the popular music artists ready to fill runners with the inspiration and strength to get them across the finishing line. Definitely the most fun halfmarathon around, Run to the Beat really is a smile-a-mile event and a brilliant starting point for runners young and old. With scientific research backing the race, even the most unfit amongst us will be able to complete this momentous challenge, along with a good training programme and some good old fashioned persistence. The brilliant team at City Showcase will once again handpick the acts to perform on the route, so why not get yourselves down to the showcase on 8 and 9 May at the British Music Experience to hear for yourself the quality of the performers. Then it’s ready, steady, go – and we will see you at the finish line! n Entries for Run to the Beat are priced at £35 For further information visit: www.runtothebeat.co.uk

c o r p o r at e c h a l l e n g e

OVERSEAS

Ed Cervantes-Watson discovers that there is something curiously emotive about reaching the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro

hether a seasoned climber, trekking in aid of charity, part of a group of friends or work colleagues, or an individual taking a spontaneous diversion from the backpacking trails of East Africa; a photograph below that iconic green and yellow wooden sign announcing you are now at 5,895m AMSL, Africa’s highest point, the world’s highest freestanding mountain, has become one of the most sought after images on the trekking circuit today. At around 11pm on a blustery February evening, I drag myself reluctantly from the warmth and relative comfort of a sleeping bag at Barafu camp 4,600m, emerging into the freezing cold and pitch black Tanzanian night. Time enough for some hot tea, a mouthful of porridge, and a few words of encouragement. Then, carrying little more than

the water and snacks to sustain me for the next 12 hours, and having donned every piece of warm clothing available it’s time to set off up the trail winding its way unseen more than a vertical kilometre ahead. What endures over the next several hours is a mixture of low points and high points, solitude and group camaraderie. Maintaining a tortoise-like pace which has now become second nature courtesy of the preceding days’ mantra-like chants of “poli poli” (slowly, slowly) from the guides, we pause only to gulp down water and admire the vast human snake, illuminated by head torches which now weaves almost uninterrupted back down to camp. We’re getting higher now, the air is thinner, breathing is harder, every footfall heavier. Thoughts of altitude sickness pray unnervingly on your mind, is that a headache, or am I dehydrating? Sip more water.

c o r p o r at e c h a l l e n g e

Passing through the freezing point somewhere around 5,000m ice crystals begin to form over daypacks and outer clothing, I realise that the £5 face buff was indeed the best equipment purchase. Four hours now since we left camp, 3am, and there seems no end in sight, the realisation that we’ve still got at least three hours till sunrise. The trudge continues. It’s getting colder still. Some are finding it harder than others, people are being sent down now, some visibly upset and exhausted, others virtually oblivious as they are half dragged, half pushed down the ash slopes by assistant guides. “5,400m, higher than Everest Base Camp” someone with an altitude watch merrily points out – higher than you’ve ever been. Slowly something begins to change. People are talking again, some are singing, the porters seem to find a second wind – the mood lightens, almost in harmony with the sky turning from black to grey, and then the first hint of daylight. Approaching Stella Point, the sun seems to appear from nowhere – pushing itself up above the cloud layer which obscures the African plains below. A porter thrusts a thermos cap of warm tea in my hand, shakes it, and points along the now almost flat trail which hugs the crater rim around to Uhuru Peak itself. The body is on automatic, the legs feeling strong but the mind drifting. I’m smiling to myself now beneath my buff, shaking partly through cold, partly a surge of adrenalin. People are there ahead of me. It doesn’t matter, I find a couple of other trekkers, a guide and porter from our group and we share our own moment, huddled together beneath that wooden sign. I don’t even notice what it says, I realise everyone is smiling, the porters almost more than me (do they know something that I don’t?). Then the adrenaline abruptly leaves, suddenly it’s cold again, I notice a dull persistent headache, I recall that the top is only half way – I shudder slightly as I calculate the eight hours I spent walking up, and what this translates into walking down. I never like going down, it’s uncomfortable, my boots always hurt, I’m tired. Exhausted. Rounding the corner at Stella Point in daylight now, I can see camp a distant speck far, far below – momentarily I am inexplicably frustrated. Then head down I half run, half jump down the ash slopes which slide away beneath me, I start to enjoy it, feeling stronger as I notice the descent on my watch. I finally roll into camp sometime after 9am, the descent having taken far less time than I had anticipated. Here porters greet us with tea and toast there is much back slapping and exchange of tales on the summit, who made it, who didn’t; who struggled, who found it a walk in the park. Despite having trekked for about 20 hours in the past 24, I don’t want to sleep, I lie in my tent listening to the sounds around me, people returning to camp and I start smiling again. Sitting here in the UK a few months later the experience of climbing Kilimanjaro remains as fresh and evocative as if it were yesterday. Anticipation in the lead up to the trip, the training, the equipment, a frisson of anxiety, the unknown; the physical challenge and achievement; the intensity of

group bonding with other trekkers and local guides; the quality of camping and food; the weather; the views; understanding the importance of porter protection schemes, and responsible tourism and witnessing the positive impact upon local communities. These are all factors which come together to make Kilimanjaro one of the most accessible, non-technical high altitude treks available when undertaken as part of a professionally organised challenge. Sir Edmund Hilary perhaps distils most concisely the experience of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro - “it is not the mountain that we conquer, but ourselves”. Action Challenge is a specialist organiser of challenge events across the globe. With a whole range of itineraries in all seven continents, offering some of the world’s best treks, cycling and horse riding adventures, snow events, multisport challenges and sailing. From long-haul expeditions to short-haul events in the UK and Europe, whatever you’re looking for, the Action Challenge team can make it happen. For charities they can put on the ultimate fundraising event and give supporters an experience of a life-time. For business they can organise anything from a long weekend event, to a community project in Africa to create a unique bonding experience for your team or business partners. For individuals and private groups they can provide you group travel with a difference and the ultimate alternative to your conventional holiday that will leave you totally awestruck and wanting to come back for more. n For further information, visit www.actionchallenge.com

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T 2010 sees the launch of Krug Clos d’Ambonnay 1996, a champagne with the most unusual of terriors

ucked away on the edge of the tranquil village of Ambonnay, lies a secret garden. Enclosed by the Montagne de Reims and high, imposing walls, inside the garden lies the treasure of the Krug house: the Clos d’Ambonnay, a unique vineyard, much less than a hectare in size, growing Pinot Noir vines destined for a delicious bottle. Coaxed and willed to grow with patience and care, the vines are carefully pruned, handpicked and left lying dormant for 14 years, ageing and awaiting their exquisite fate.

Krug’s fable-like vineyard remained a secret until 2007, when the first crop came to sparkling fruition. This year sees the second only launch of this kind, the Krug Clos d’Ambonnay 1996, hotly anticipated and already expected to be even finer and more exquisite than the extraordinary 1995 vintage. With a bouquet of plums, roasted fruits and nougatine, Krug Clos d’Ambonnay 1996 boasts a rich yet vivaciously fresh taste and will only be available in venues that are as elegantly exclusively as the champagne itself. n www.krug.com

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EASTERN FLAVOUR

travel

news DRINK IT Up Be the first to stay at The Yeatman, the newest luxury hotel in beautiful Oporto, opening in early July. Built into the hillside in a terraced effect to mirror the undulating vines of the Douro Valley beyond, The Yeatman offers spectacular views of the winding river and the steep, cobbled streets below. A UNESCO’s World Heritage city, Oporto is steeped in culture with plenty of historic buildings and picturesque sights, perfect for city breaks and relaxing retreats alike. Located in the heart of the city’s famous port-making district, It is the perfect place for wine connoisseurs. Guests will have the opportunity to learn about unique grape varieties, different wine styles and the local history of the port trade at weekly wine and cookery events. Learn from award-winning Portuguese chef Ricardo Costa about food and wine pairing, or let the sommelier pick the perfect partner for your meal from the impressive 25,000 bottlestrong cellar, boasting the best list of Portuguese wines anywhere in the world. And for those who have reached their wine-loving limits, you can even recover with vine inspired treatments at The Vinotherapie Spa.

IT’S ONLY ROCK AND ROLL Described as the “most extravagant creative enclave in existence”, Eden Rock hotel has opened the luxurious Villa Rockstar on the glorious island of St. Barths. The star of the show is a state–ofthe-art recording studio, perfect for those who always had a hunch they could have been the next Mick Jagger, if only they had had the time... And when it is time to soothe your creative soul, relax like a rock star with the infinity pool, a 20-seat Cinemascope screening room and butler service to take care of your every need.

This June, the United Arab Emirates will be graced with the unique style and flavour of London’s award-winning modern Chinese restaurant, Hakkasan. Opening in the opulent Emirates Palace Hotel, the restaurant will be led by Lee Kok Hua from Hakkasan London. Featuring Hakkasan’s signature dishes (like the decadent Peking duck and Royal Beluga caviar), the menu will also feature some innovative new dishes created by the new chef. www.emiratespalace.com

www.edenrockhotel.com

Travel fact: Spread across nine South American countries, the Amazon jungle is the largest rainforest in the world. As large as Western Europe, it produces a fifth of the Earth’s oxygen, earning it the nickname “Lungs of the Planet.”

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Website of the month: One of the Observer and Guardian best travel website of 2006 and 2007, Black Tomato offers cutting-edge travel experiences specially created for you. Why not learn the way of the ninja from experts in Tokyo, or plan the perfect honeymoon in a tropical paradise? Whatever in the world you desire, Black Tomato can help you experience it.

Brought to you in association with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, an unsurpassable collection of over 500 hotels spanning 70 countries, which offer an infinite variety of experiences.

GOURMET GIJON Wet bums and full stomachs: Dominique Brady discovers more about the charming city of Gij贸n in Northern Spain

travel

o be called a ‘wet bum’ would normally be an insult. However, in the region of Asturias in North West Spain, it’s a widespread nickname for people from Gijón. Fortunately the region’s most populated city doesn’t suffer from widespread bladder problems. Instead, the nickname is centuries old and refers to a time when the unrestrained Atlantic tide would crash in quickly and people would flee the Plaza Mayor to avoid being soaked from the waist down. Now the nickname is an affectionate joke amongst the fun-loving Gijónese. The city prides itself on its history, its superb cheese, cider and its relaxed attitude. While Brits opt for city breaks in Barcelona or Madrid, Spaniards have always found Gijón a reviving retreat, and with good reason.

connoisseur

the region. I normally avoid guided tours region alone. The cabrales is a distinctive but I made an exception due to breathtaking blue made from a blend of sheep, goat and architecture of the complex, modelled on cow’s milk, whilst the afeuga’l pitu can the El Escorial palace in Madrid, but twice be served soft or cured, white or red. The its size. While Franco’s coat of arms still red, soft version is a delight with hints of towers over the entrance gates, some statues paprika, both sweet and sour flavours and a have been removed – a symbol of the deep slightly sticky but not unpleasant texture. divisions that remain in Spanish society. After a late Spanish lunch it was time to Check the website in advance for guide explore the compact city. The main town times (www.laboralciudadelacultura.com). is a small but densely packed labyrinth My final meal in Gijón was not for the of Romantic and 1970s style buildings. It faint-hearted. Going off-piste to a rural may not be the most elegant of European llagar or cider factory requires some trust in cities but it’s a Mecca of fashion boutiques, your taxi driver, so check they know where design shops and delicatessens. it is before you start out - our driver got A few glasses of wine from the vinaterias very lost on the way back. At the Lavandera off Calle Salustio Regueral proved the llagars of the famous Trabanco brand (www. perfect way to switch to evening mode, with grupotrabanco.com) you can have a guided El Feudo vinateria having the most lively tour of the production process, try a drink or atmosphere. Then a five minute walk to the two straight from the barrel and then relax quiet sophistication of Casa Zabala, located in their slightly twee traditional dining hall. in the old town, made it the On weekends expect this to be packed with perfect restaurant to round locals getting through cider bottles quickly off a busy day. A three-course and eating some, frankly, amazing food. meal with a bottle or two of It was time to release the carnivore table cider will set you back €50 a head and their formula of within. We gourged on fabado, a delicious simple yet delicious fish dishes traditional stew made from white beans, certainly make the most of the morcilla, chorizo and Iberican ham and wonderful Atlantic location. then some sweet, plump mussels cooked in The next day we decided to branch out a cider sauce. The main was a large bullock a little further from the centre and stopped steak which had been liberally coated in off en route at Las Delicias restaurant, a five sea salt, cooked, sliced and served rare on minute taxi ride (Camino de las Dalias, 80). a hot plate. The famously green hills of This luxurious restaurant has a charming North Spain produce happy cattle and juicy, outside terrace and specialises in wonderful, tender, wonderful meat. After a few bottles freshly caught fish and seafood. Their rich of cider, a stomach full to bursting with the shellfish soup followed by hake in a simple best of Asturian cuisine and no inkling of the velouté sauce was perfectly complimented by terrifying taxi ride ahead, I too would have a bottle of Vento Mareiro Albariño from their been proud to be called a ‘wet bottom’. n well-stocked cellar. They also have a range of impressive tasting menus at €45 or €60. Where to Aware even the most dedicated foodies stay: Doub rooms at th le e abba Pla must give their stomachs a rest, it ya Gijón start from €75. For re was time to explore the servations visit www.a bbagijonho art and history of the tel.com o r ca ll +34 985 00 How to get there: 0 000. region. We took a ten Fly to Asturia airport from minute taxi from the London Stansted with restaurant to Laboral, easyJet, www.easyjet.com the city of culture. This alle adreña, 8 C monumental building ec r e t: La Ms. Ignore its s rs e ll e v Tra foodie was the largest civic a must for re trove Instituto, is it ’s a treasu e d si in as r o project of its time and was built by Franco ri and jams. te s er ex d y ci st du s, cheeses, am h t es in 1955 as a live-in technical college for n of the fi boys aged 12-21. Three years ago it had a £15m restoration and it now Don’t miss: The fabado kits at the indoor houses an innovative and market so you can cook the tasty stew at home. must-see art gallery and a

To be called a ‘wet bum’ would normally be an insult. However, in the region of Asturias in North West Spain, it’s a widespread nickname for people from Gijón A trip to Gijón wouldn’t be complete without several visits to its famous siderias. Cider might be considered wine’s cheaper and less interesting cousin in the UK, but in Asturia it is the tipple of choice. The region has over 90 apple varieties and getting the balance between the sweet, sour and bitter tastes is an art form. Watching the locals drink their much adored cider is a theatrical event. It’s poured escaniada (from a height) and a good barman shouldn’t even look at the glass. Locals knock back generous shots quickly to preserve the fizz created by the pouring process and any dregs are thrown into the gutter surrounding the bar. So shortly after arrival I found myself at La Galana, an elegantly beamed sideria in the Plaza Major. After sharing a bottle of cider, the dining room at the back was the perfect introduction to the rich, rustic flavours of Asturian cuisine. Their tender baby squid with sweet caramelised onions was the stuff of food legends and their Asturian cheese board was another must-order choice. Two of the cheeses in the region, the cabrales and the afuega’l pitu have the esteemed Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) which makes them authentic to that

fantastic viewing tower over

The controversial ‘praise of the horizon’ monument by Chillida nicknamed the ‘toilet seat’ by locals or people watching in the early evening in the bustling Begonia gardens.

Not just another day at the office WELCOME TO TOWN HALL HOTEL & APARTMENTS

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Dublin

Eileen Elliott makes it her business to explore the pleasures of Ireland’s culture rich capital and delights in all things green and ‘minted’ WHAT TO SEE: A city brimming and bustling with culture and history, there is no better way to ensure that you get the most out of Dublin than with the Dublin Pass. Providing discounts and offers throughout the city, the pass will be celebrating its fifth birthday with more partners than ever before, including City Canal Cruises, Dublin’s famous The Church Bar and Restaurant and much more. With a wealth of great writers haling from Dublin, its unique influence has had a revolutionary impact on modern European literature. Joyce’s ground breaking work, Ulysses, follows one day in the life of Leopold Bloom; a day that is now celebrated every year on 16 June, now known as ‘Bloomsday’. Events take place throughout the week, following this famous character and writer around their equally famous terrior. June is also a great time for cricket fans, with a titanic clash taking place between Ireland and Australia on 17 June. A chance to see the Irish team

on their green home turf, the RSA Challenge also offers great corporate entertaining, and a luxurious package can be organised through the Irish Cricket Association. www.dublinpass.ie www.visitdublin.com www.cricketeurope4.net/irishcricket

WHere TO EAT:: In Dublin, everything is infused with a sense of culture. At The Merrion, even afternoon tea now comes with the guilt banishing bonus of being a cultural activity. Inspired by their extensive collection of contemporary Irish art, The Merrion’s Art Tea features witty interpretations of works by great Irish artists, beautifully represented in the form of delicious cakes and sweets. Michelin-starred Chapter One Restaurant offers a special dining experience, serving stylish French inspired cuisine using local Irish ingredients, in the beautiful surrounds of fine art and authentic granite walls.

Restaurant Bon Appétit

The sleek, tranquil setting of the restaurant makes it a great place for a business lunch, or to wine and dine clients with the six course menu at the intimate and exclusive Chefs Table made from volcanic rock. For a decadent dinner, try one of the ten course tasting menus in the sophisticated Georgian dining rooms of Restaurant Bon Appétit. Opened in 2006, the restaurant was awarded a Michelin star the following year, making it the fastest Star ever awarded to a restaurant in Ireland. www.merrionhotel.com www.chapteronerestaurant.com www.bonappetit.ie

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connoisseur travel

WHERE TO STAY::: Set in the heart of Georgian Dublin, The Shelbourne Hotel has received many awards and accolades for its fantastic service, including being ranked 13th best business hotel by Condé Nast in 2009. The hotel offers an impressive array of facilities for business users including 13 conference suites, each with a unique history, such as The Constitution Suite, where the Irish Constitution was drafted in 1922. The hotel’s unique place in Irish history also extends to the remarkable roll call of guests, which includes William Thackeray and Seamus Heaney. And as if that wasn’t enough, the hotel even boasts Ireland’s beast cocktail bar, No27 Lounge and Bar. Alternatively, located in the trendy Temple Bar district and owned by Irish rock royalty, U2’s Bono and The Edge, The Clarence oozes sophisticated cool. Decked out in American white oak and Italian limestone, this stylish boutique hotel offers its owners unique vision of how a luxury hotel should be: intimate, idiosyncratic, unstuffy and contemporary. www.marriott.co.uk www.theclarence.ie

Shelbourne Hotel

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WHERE TO PLAY:::

Mint Bar

Raspberry and Apple Mojito

When hours in stuffy board rooms have left your mind like cotton wool, escape to the greenery of a spectacular golf courses. Only an hour away from the city, in the picturesque village of Killenard, The Heritage Golf and Spa Resort boasts a spectacular 18 hole, championship golf course. Using over four decades of experience, the course was designed by international golfing legends Seve Ballesteros and Jeff Howes. If a touch of intemperance is more likely to draw you in than the call of the great outdoors, head to The Mint Bar at the Westin Hotel for a night of guaranteed decadence. An intimate yet stylish bar carved into the existing structure of the city’s old bank vaults, it is certainly the best place in Ireland to drink your hard earned cash. Serving an extensive list of cocktails including an unbeatable mojito, The Mint Bar is also home to the ‘Minted’ Cocktail: vanilla infused vodka, 200 year old cognac and flakes of 23 carat gold, served in a crystal glass with chocolate truffles. Costing a cool €500, it is the most expensive cocktail in the country. www.thewestindublin.com www.theheritage.com

DON’T MISS::: A trip to Dublin would not be complete without a visit to some of the great retail delights on offer. Head down to Grafton Street to check out the vast array of boutiques and chic shops, offering everything your credit card could fear. Don’t miss Brown Thomas, the Godfather of Dublin department stores, which has been going strong since 1849. The stylish store offers a great selection of the biggest and best fashion and beauty brands around and even a Crème de la Mer treatment room. Or if unknown one-offs that everyone will envy are more your style, visit the Cow’s Lane Fashion and Design Market. This sprawling mass of stalls, selling an eclectic range of stylish must haves, is a Mecca for Dublin’s fashionistas and a great place to discover up and coming design talent or a unique gift. And if after all that shopping, coffee is not the kind of pick me up you have in mind, you are in the right city. Head to The Old Jameson Distillery and let one of the knowledgeable guides walk you through what the three simple ingredients of water, barley and yeast can become when mixed with a little Irish charm with a tour and tasting. www.brownthomas.com www.jamesonwhiskey.com

Jamesons

City Airport offers up to seven direct flights daily Monday-Friday, one on Saturday and three on Sunday

For more information, schedules and to book your flight visit www.londoncityairport.com

Because some secrets are meant to be shared Re-discover Dublin this summer at the city centre’s most prestigious address The Shelboure Hotel. Located right on Dublin’s doorstep, The Shelbourne Hotel is the perfect location for exploring the city - from chic boutiques, art and culture to gourmet restaurants and theatre. Enjoy our exclusive packages from just €89.00 per person sharing per night. For bookings please call +353 1 6634500 or book online at www.TheShelbourne.ie quoting reference P91 to avail of this special offer.

The Shelbourne Dublin, A Renaissance Hotel 27 St. Stephens Green, Dublin 2, Ireland www.theshelbourne.ie www.renaissancehotels.com

An origiNAL RANKIN POLAROID To mark the release of a limited edition book of Polaroids, shot by internationally renowned photographer Rankin, premium single malt The Macallan is giving away a highly sought after Rankin Polaroid taken during the shoot for The Macallan Masters of Photography series and a bottle of Macallan whisky.

MACALLAN WHISKY

The Macallan Masters of Photography series is an unparalleled opportunity for photographers to experiment with different methods and techniques.

Rankin’s decision to use Polaroid to shoot this commission lends the project a special sense of individuality. The nature of the medium dictates that each of the 1,000 images shot during his stay at The Macallan distillery are unrepeatable single editions. Together, they form a story or visual journey in a specific moment of time in the stunning Speyside landscape and the beauty of Rankin’s subject. This Polaroid is a once in a lifetime prize. There are still a small number of limited edition bottles, which sees the partnering of the superb Macallan 30-year-old, with the individual Polaroid shot by Rankin, available directly from The Macallan Visitor Centre (RRP £899).

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A Photographic Essay of The Macallan Estate is available for purchase through The Macallan website: www.themacallan.com

how to win To be in with a chance of winning, email your name, address and telephone number to competitions@runwildgroup.co.uk with MACALLAN in the subject bar. The closing date for entries is 30 June 2010. Terms & conditions: The first correct entry drawn will win our first prize and the next two the runners-up prizes. The Editor’s decision is final and no correspondence can be entered into.

travel

BEST OF BRITISH

connoisseur

Ireland

As international travel becomes faster, cheaper and easier, it’s easy to forget what beautiful destinations we have in the UK, says Rebecca Walton. In the second of a four-part series, she travels to Northern Ireland to find the best in homeland luxury travel

estled in the country outside the beautiful town of Ballymena, you’ll find the idyllic Galgorm Resort and Spa. Around 30 mins from Belfast city centre and only 20 mins from Belfast International Airport, this secluded resort is set within some of Northern Ireland’s most beautiful countryside. Named once again as one of the hottest new hotels in Ireland by Condé Nast Traveller, it’s easy to see why this hotel comes with such acclaim. Set in 163 acres of lush, green parkland and within easy distance of some of Northern Ireland’s most renowned attractions, it’s a popular destination for both wealthy Belfast residents and discerning travellers. From the impressive sweeping entrance to the beautiful Maine river views, the resort is full of promise from the moment you arrive. The 75 bedrooms and suites manage to exude the air and atmosphere of a countryside manor, yet combine this relaxing feel with a contemporary and edgy interior style. The rooms are impressive, yet homely in the same breath – with soft pillows and luxurious comforters, it’s a home away from home, and the enormous bathtub and shower are enough to ensure that those city stresses are left far behind. But for those who don’t enjoy the feeling of complete isolation, don’t worry. Even in the middle of the countryside, complete with the sounds of birds, horses and the flowing river, guests will never be far from modern facilities, including a great selection of satellite channels, the latest blockbusters, plasma televisions and broadband internet in every room. The Galgorm prides itself on its excellent service and attention to detail – and the helpful staff are always on hand, whether it’s to suggest a local walk, or get you kitted out with the latest mountain bikes for a slightly more adventurous outdoor pursuit. There are a number of options open to diners at the Galgorm, including

relaxed traditional meals available in Gillie’s Bar and Grill – a large and traditional-style pub that overlooks the working stables and features live Irish music at the weekends. For a more formal dining experience, The River Room Restaurant is the place to head. Think outstanding gourmet food with breathtaking floorto-ceiling views over the river, this beautiful restaurant offers exceptional service and food in a romantic and relaxing atmosphere.

Top to bottom: Hotel Suite River Room Bar area Galgorm Resort and Spa

One of the most appealing elements of this hotel is the breathtaking spa, with everything you might need to truly indulge your senses at the end of a long and tiring day. The spa itself offers an amazing array of exotic therapies for both men and women. I can recommend the Hot Lava Shell Massage to anyone who needs to ease the strain and tension of the city lifestyle. And if the peaceful atmosphere isn’t enough to melt all your cares away, then the rest of the spa will. The Thermal Spa Experience allows you to relax, purify, rejuvenate and re-awaken your body and soul by indulging in the ancient ritual of bathing. Don’t miss the outdoor hot-tub with views over the Maine, heated relaxation loungers, a gorgeous infinity hydrotherapy pool, laconium (a thermal relaxation suite), aroma grotto and sauna. There’s enough to keep you relaxing all day, without even leaving the resort – bliss! n The Galgorm Resort and Spa 136 Fenaghy Road Cullybackey Ballymena BT42 1EA 028 2588 1001 www.galgorm.com

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declare your

independence

Small independent luxury hotels. Memorable experiences.

Small Luxury Hotels of the Worldâ&#x201E;˘ Book your summer beach escape at www.slh.com/beachescapes

SLH Beach ad 210 x 297.indd 1

25/5/10 17:29:08

travel

connoisseur

the

GRAND ESCAPE

Set in a sprawling expanse of green grounds in the beautiful Berkshire countryside, the stylish Cliveden House is a unique testament to England’s history of elite and luxury living. Eileen Elliott finds out more

uilt in 1666 by the second Duke of Buckingham, the notorious rake and wit dreamt up this splendid country house as a hunting lodge and decadent escape for every “pleasure, frolic or extravagant diversion” imaginable. Later owned by the Prince of Wales and American socialites the Astors, Cliveden House has seen its fair share of illustrious guests, playing host to almost every British Monarch since George I as well as Charlie Chaplin, Winston Churchill and George Bernard Shaw. In fact, it was in the grounds of Cliveden House that John Profumo first met Christine Keeler and the infamous affair began, and with the hotel’s history so interwoven with past pursuits of power and pleasure, a stay at Cliveden House is guaranteed to be deliciously indulgent. One of the most luxurious hotels within an easy distance of London and the main airports, Cliveden House will ease you into the relaxing and decadent world of a bygone era with lavish interiors and sumptuous detailing such as rich oak panelling and the grand fireplace in the Great Hall. Each of the 39 rooms is named after a prominent figure from the hotels past and decorated accordingly with beautiful furnishings and priceless antiques. Surrounded by magnificent gardens and parkland, the grounds include the beautiful Parterre and the secluded, sundrenched walled garden. The hotel even has its own boathouse with access to the Thames, and beautiful vintage boats available for private hire. With three different restaurants serving up culinary delights,

there is plenty to satisfy discerning dinners too. The Cliveden Club Restaurant offers great gastro pub fare, freshly prepared and served in a relaxed and informal setting. Great gourmet delights are on offer at The Terrace Dining Room, with breath taking views of the garden and estate, and the crème de la crème, the sophisticated Waldo’s Restaurant. Each of these remarkable restaurants offers delicious food, a fantastic selection of wines and an excellent standard of attentive and courteous service, which (with a ratio of four staff to every guest) is characteristic throughout the hotel. For those after an extraordinary and unforgettable dining experience, guests can also enjoy an intimate party in the lovingly restored Cellar Dining Room or a grander affair in the exquisite Rococo French Dining Room. Finally, if the finer things in life are no comfort without the company of man’s best friend, fear not, at Cliveden House dogs are more than welcome and well be treated like a treasured guest, just like you. Let your dog roam free on specially designed paths through 250 acres of National Trust woodland and work up an appetite for the special canine cuisine devised by the head chef. If you need to leave your much loved mutt in capable hands while you indulge and sooth your senses with a treatment at the Pavilion Spa, Cliveden House can even organise a dog-sitter or walker for you. However you choose to indulge, with such great service and fantastic facilities in and around the hotel, Cliveden House is sure to delight and soothe all your senses. n www.clivedenhouse.co.uk

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connoisseur travel

Destination...

Deauville Eileen Elliott makes her way to the glamorous French resort of Deauville

his month, CityJet launches a brand new route from City Airport to one of France’s most popular holiday destinations, Deauville. So popular amongst the Parisian elite that it is often referred to as Paris’ 21st arrondissement, Deauville boasts a generous offering of beaches, world class heritage sites (including the Bayeux tapestry), unrivalled luxury and pleasure pursuits.

Don’’t miss:

Fire wall

This year Deauville is celebrating its 150 year anniversary and will be hosting fantastic events and celebrations throughout the er th Park © Elizabe year. With the beach such an iconic part of Deauville’s vista, the town will be hosting a spectacular anniversary event on the beach in the evening on 19 June. One of France’s most influential contemporary composers, Pascal Dusapin, will work with the famous pyrotechnicians Group F to create an exhilarating sound and light show and a breathtaking 800m wall of fire. www.deauville-2010.fr

CityJet offers four direct flights a week to Deauville, from £59 one way (incl. taxes)

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For more information, schedules and to book your flight visit www.londoncityairport.com

Where to eat:

Starry eyed

The only one of Deauville’s great restaurants to have been mentioned in the Michelin Guide, L’Etrier is a fantastic place to enjoy dinner under the stars. Decked in regal crimson stripes, the restaurant is both elegant and cosy. Under the direction of Eric Provost, it serves elaborate and creative creations using local and seasonal produce. On a beautiful summer evening, sit out and enjoy an aperitif of a cocktail or champagne in the secluded garden.

What to see::

Jump for joy

Such a sanctuary of elite sophistication as it is, no trip to Deauville would be complete without a visit to the races. With world famous Royal Ascot taking place across the Channel at the same time, the Deauville Race Course has done its best to outdo their English neighbours with The Grand National Jumping. The event will take place from 11-13 June, with other races taking place throughout the months of July and August. www.deauville-cheval.com

www.etrier-deauville.com

Where to play::

Lucky numbers

A sojourn in Deauville is all about flashing the cash, and what better way to do so than with an evening in the Casino. The Casino Barriere de Deauville boasts an impressive array of games of chance to test your luck as well as several bars and nightclubs. The O2 Sofa bar has oxygen, making it a perfect place to revive your spirits after the shock of either huge wins or loses, depending on how the dice roll.

ier Ho

udart

Where to stay:

New style

Be the first to stay in the new Les Manoirs de Tourgéville, opening this month, housed in the © Patrick Le Bris former mansion of the famous French film director Claude Lelouche. Set to become one of the most luxurious hotels in Normandy, as well as the original mansion, the hotel compound includes five new Norman style manor houses spread over the beautiful parkland, offering panaoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Activities on offer will include golf, horse riding and polo. www.lesmanoirsdetourgeville.com

SUMMER BBQS ON CLUB NIGHTS AT... T u R n u P T H e H e AT A n d e n j oy A d i v i n e 3-couRSe BBQ dinneR in THe TudoR G A R d e n B e F o R e yo u PA RT y T H e n i G H T AWAy AT o u R P R i vAT e M e M B e R S c L u B .

The Roof Gardens – 99 Kensington High Street, London W8 5SA www.roofgardens.virgin.com

How muc H?

£60 per person, based on a minimum of 10 people (£50 per person for members)

wHen?

Friday and Saturday nights May – September 2010

Bookings :

Phone 0207 368 3960 or visit www.roofgardens. virgin.com/cluboffers Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability.

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wh en you quo te C ITY MA G

food & drink

connoisseur

FRIDAY FIZZ Kick-start your weekend with one of the most exclusive champagnes in the world. Renowned for its fine bubbles, velvet texture and freshness, the Krug Grande Cuvée is part of the “Thank Krug it’s Friday” offer at Battersea Pie Station in Covent Garden. Unwind every Friday throughout the summer months with a glass of Krug and gourmet British pie for £25. Choose from a range of specially created pies to suit your élite fizz, including a gourmet Fish pie, Lamb and Coriander and a flavoursome Butternut Squash and Goat’s Cheese.

food & drink

news HIGH SPIRIT

After years of enjoying a regular sip of his family’s golden secret, Stephen Wallace decided to launch Rum Sixty Six from his family’s distillery in Barbados. This rare 12-yearold rum has been ‘tropically aged’ in American white oak casks, imparting a character and complexity comparable to that found in a 25-yearold Single Malt or Fine Cognac aged a quarter of a century. Rum Sixty Six is newly available in the UK, but is a spirit with impeccable heritage; distilled, aged and bottled with meticulous craftsmanship by fifth generation master distiller, Richard Seale. A new adventure for whisky and bourbon drinkers, as well as for cocktail drinkers who want to drink with depth and subtlety, Rum Sixty Six holds its own against Europe’s finest spirits.

www.krug.com

SUMMER SIZZLE Gear up for barbeque season with the essential Weber’s Complete Barbecue Book. From simple kebabs to elaborate rotisseries, a grilled cheese salad or a tasty fruit pudding, this is packed with a huge range of delicious recipes for all-year-round barbecue bliss.

www.rumsixtysix.com

Raymond Blanc opens his first London restaurant, Brasserie Blanc on Threadneedle Street in the old Stock Exchange building. A variety of traditional French starters, mains and desserts are served within stylish surroundings. There’s a Dine with wine offer too – £16 for two courses and £18.45 for three courses, available from 5pm to close. www.brasserieblanc.com

Food lingo: lassi A traditional Indian drink, Lassi is a divine blend of yoghurt with water or milk and Indian spices. Traditional Lassi is flavoured with ground, roasted cumin, while sweet Lassi is blended with sugar or fruits and is also extremely popular.

Quote:

Website of the month:

Strange to see how a good dinner and feasting reconciles everybody Samuel Pepys, 17th century London diarist

www.formanandfield.com

NEWS:

A gourmet mail order deli specialising in fresh, traditional fare from small British producers, Forman & Field has a mouth-watering selection, including veal and suckling pig, oysters, quiche and paté. Prepared fresh to order in peak condition, the perfect Sunday roast or show-stopping party food is delivered quickly and efficiently by overnight courier.

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A complimentary 5 NIGHTS STAY AT ANY SMALL LUXURY HOTELs OF THE WORLD property TM

San Antonio, Santorini, Greece

Simply by subscribing to this magazine for free Small Luxury Hotels of the WorldÂ is an unsurpassed collection of over 500 hotels spanning more than 70 countries, which together offer an infinite variety of experiences. Whatever your inclination, Small Luxury Hotels of the World is guaranteed to have that exclusive hotel with its own unique character and charm.

how to win

Gran Hotel Son Net, Mallorca, Spain

Please send your name, address and the title of the magazine you would like to subscribe to: subscribe@runwildgroup.co.uk Terms & conditions: Entry is open to residents of the UK except employees (and their families) of Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH) and Runwild Media Group, its printers and agents, the suppliers of the prizes and any other companies associated with the competitions.

For reservations visit www.slh.com

The editors decision is final. By entering this competition you agree to your details being used by Runwild Media Group for marketing purpose. Please see www. runwildmediagroup.com/subscriptions for full terms and conditions.

Villa Marie, Ramatuelle, Saint Tropez, France

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food & drink

A feast fit for

connoisseur

KINGS

Josephine O’Donoghue spends an evening at Boisdale of Bishopsgate, enjoying the finest Scottish cuisine the City has to offer

ven though we were heading to Boisdale of Bishopsgate, directed by the SATNAV on our trusty iPhones, we were still surprised when we found it. A set of small double doors tucked away at the end of a narrow City alley, the entrance was obscured by crowds of afterwork drinkers on one of the first warm evenings of the year. Coming up to the semi-concealed doors, the place has the feeling of a hidden local gem; it’s obviously popular, as it was only 6.30pm on a Wednesday, and the street and ground-level bar were crammed with happy, slightly inebriated Londoners. The restaurant section of Boisdale of Bishopsgate is on the basement level and, without windows, it takes on a cosy ‘hideaway’ atmosphere. We left our coats in the cloakroom and were guided to our table by a friendly, attentive steward. The Scottish design elements are obviously present, but subtle in their combination (thankfully no tartan wallpaper or vases of dried thistles). The restaurant does include tartan fabrics (used tastefully in small amounts), alongside bold red and woodland green walls, dark wood, and framed photographs and artwork depicting Scottish countryside scenes. Coupled with sharp attention to detail, such as polished silverware, starched tablecloths and sparkling wine glasses, the overall atmosphere is one of homely elegance. Always a good sign of things to come, the Boisdale wine list offers an excellent selection – the staff are really helpful and can recommend a bottle depending on your taste, or will happily help you select a suitable wine to match your food choices. We started the meal with handmade ravioli, which was soft, delicious and stuffed full of ricotta and vegetables; a small portion, it was beautifully presented and just enough to enjoy the full flavour of the pasta without filling up before the main course. Perhaps a little more Scottish, the dish of diver-caught scallops with Macsween haggis, sweetcorn purée and black truffle vinaigrette is another appetising starter, and the scallops are so fat and flavoursome you’d probably be open to a main course of exactly the same. Not long after, we were presented with our main course choices, and the quality of ingredients was immediately apparent. We had ordered the wild Highland venison, with bitter chocolate, chestnut and cep pie, and mashed potato, which was cooked to pink perfection and was so tender and delicious we sank into silence as we sampled this delicious meat. I chose the 28-day aged 7oz fillet, with Béarnaise sauce, watercress, homemade onion rings, grilled tomato and old-fashioned chips. The steak was cooked medium-rare and the chef got it just right – perfectly pink in the very centre – a request that so many kitchens seem to get wrong. In my opinion, if a meat is so tasty that you could eat it on its own (even ignoring yummy homemade chips) then it’s pretty much perfect – and we agreed that this was the case with both the venison, and the steak. Puddings at Boisdale of Bishopsgate are very special and, unusually, each dish is priced to include a glass of specially matched dessert wine. We opted for the apple and candied ginger crumble with Guinness ice-cream and salted cinnamon caramel – a proper comfort food pudding with an original twist, it was served with Southbrook Vidal Ice Wine 2006 from Canada, which complemented the flavours without overpowering. The perfect end to a Scottish meal, Boisdale of Bishopsgate manages to incorporate successfully the very best of traditional cuisine with a light modern twist, perfect for the City crowd. n

Boisdale of Bishopsgate Swedeland Court 202 Bishopsgate EC2M 4NR 020 7283 1763 For more information, visit www.boisdale.co.uk

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restaurants

bars

American

Italian

2 Exmouth Market, Farringdon, EC1R 020 7278 0077

Churchill Place, E14

Dollar Grills and Martinis

Jamie’s Italian

020 3002 5252 Lena

The Big Chill Bar

Dray Walk, off Brick Lane, E1 020 7392 9180

Hawksmoor

66 Great Eastern Street, EC2A 020 7739 5714

British

19 New Bridge Street, EC4V 020 7438 8052

5 Threadneedle Street, EC2R 020 7657 8088

Volupté

59 West Smithfield, EC1A 020 7796 0600

157 Commercial Street, E1 020 7247 7392 Canteen

2 Crispin Place, E1 08456 861 122 Beach Blanket Babylon

19-23 Bethnal Green Road, E1 020 7749 3540 GREENS

14 Cornhill, EC3V 020 7220 6300

French Coq D’Argent

No.1 Poultry, EC2R 020 7395 5000 Les Trois Garcons

Refettorio

9 Norwich Street, EC4A 020 7831 1622 or 020 7831 1677

Oriental

Royal China Club (Baker St)

40-42 Baker Street, W1U 020 7486 3898 Saki

4 West Smithfield, EC1A 020 7489 7033

Mexican

Green & Red

1 Club Row, E1 020 7613 1924

51 Bethnal Green Road, E1 020 7749 9670

Sauterelle

Middle Eastern

Royal Exchange, EC3V 020 7618 2483

Gastropub Duke of Cambridge

30 St Peter’s Street, N1 020 7359 3066 The Peasant

240 St. John Street, EC1V 020 7336 7726

Greek Mezedopolio

14 Hoxton Market, N1 020 7739 8212

Kenza

10 Devonshire Square, EC2M 020 7929 5533

Modern European One Lombard Street

1 Lombard Street, EC3V 020 7929 6611 Rhodes Twenty Four

Bonds

Cellar Gascon

Cicada

132-136 St John Street, EC1V 020 7608 1550 Fishmarket Champagne Bar

Great Eastern Hotel Liverpool Street, EC2M 020 7618 7215

The Gherkin Bar & Restaurant

Levels 39 & 40 30 St Mary Axe, EC3A 020 7071 5009 Grand Café & Bar

The Courtyard Royal Exchange, EC3V 020 7618 2480 Harry’s Bar

5 Abchurch Yard, EC4N 020 7623 2355 Light Bar

233 Shoreditch High Street, E1 020 7247 8989 Match EC1

Tower 42 Old Broad Street, EC2N 020 7877 7703

45-47 Clerkenwell Road, EC1M 020 7250 4002

Smiths of Smithfield

27 Leadenhall Market, EC3V 020 7623 1818

67-77 Charterhouse Street, EC1M 020 7251 7950

Spanish Moro

34-36 Exmouth Street, EC1R 020 7833 8336

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Balls Brothers

5-6 Carey Lane, EC2V 020 7600 2720

Ortega

Vertigo 42

Tower 42 25 Old Broad St, EC2N 020 7877 7842 The Worship

Triton Court 14 Finsbury Square, EC2A 020 7330 0920

art & culture

connoisseur

Bounty Hunter When a hand-picked assortment of some of the world’s premier art dealers, institutions and connoisseurs gather in one place, you’d expect the location to be suitably auspicious. Oliver Balcazar discovers more

rom 24 to 29 June, the illustrious former Chelsea Barracks is set to host Masterpiece London, a new luxury event that brings together the ‘best of the best’ in arts and antiques from the four corners of the globe. Not since the Great Exhibition of 1851 has such an exclusive array of fine and decorative arts, contemporary design, vintage wine, classic cars, jewellery and other premium collector’s items been displayed on such a grand scale in the capital. At Masterpiece, however, each opulent item that catches your eye will be available for immediate purchase, a tempting prospect considering the élite standard of exhibitors involved. Following the closure, after 75 years, of the world-renowned Grosvenor House Art & Antiques Fair last year, a small group of some of the world’s top-drawer art and antique dealers decided to reinvent the fair concept, with an even greater emphasis on exclusivity and supreme quality. Prestigious organisations including Mallett, Apter-Fredericks, Ronald Phillips and Asprey began developing a pioneering event that could re-affirm London’s credentials as a leading cultural and artistic hub. Among those presenting stands are the eminent international names of A La Vieille Russie, MacConnal-Mason, Marchant, SJ Phillips, Peter Finer and the Tomasso Brothers. The fair includes an exceptional collection of Imperial Fabergé from Wartski, the leading art and antique dealers, specialising in fine jewellery since 1865. Sparkling alongside Fabergé treasures, enthusiasts can look forward to Epoch Jewel pieces, including a René Lalique gold, diamond and enamel dog collar plaque; a platinum, turquoise and diamond collier de chien by Cartier;

and an impressive Renaissance Revival rock crystal, ruby and diamond devant de corsage brooch by Jean-Valetin Morel, depicting the Greek goddess Hera. Coys, the historic motorcar specialist, is showcasing the 1932 Bugatti Type 51 Grand Prix motor car, raced by legendary driver Jean Pierre Wimille and one of the finest surviving examples of its kind. “The key element of Masterpiece is that each stand is of the same high standard. Typically, exhibitors present a few highlight items and the rest essentially as filler,” says founding partner Simon Phillips, of antique dealership Ronald Phillips. “Masterpiece has no empty space, everything is a highlight”. This, of course, is due to a scrupulous allocations committee, which has been established to assess all applications and issue formal invitations to exhibit. It is a system that ensures there is no compromise in the calibre of exhibitors. “The fair will also be an exceptional visitor experience, featuring six world-class restaurants, numerous bars and state-of-theart stand design to make a visit to Masterpiece an exceptional cultural, culinary and social experience for a discerning and distinguished clientèle. Visitors will be able to enjoy fine dining from such eminent names as Le Caprice, The Ivy, Scott’s and Bam-Bou under one roof for the very first time”. Simon’s confidence in Masterpiece proves the high-end arts market is still thriving in the capital, and with such an opulent display of works in one place, this will certainly be an event to remember. n Masterpiece London will be taking place on 24-29 June at Chelsea Barracks For more information visit www.masterpiecefair.com

119

The City’s

Top Model Entrepreneur

Vicinitee attended the finals at private members club, Jalouse on 29 April

Photography by Mike Bryant, Tim Scott, Daniel Rachev, Veronica McNally

he exciting event which mixed business and fashion was attended by some of the City’s most influential business people and fashionistas. Guests were served Marquis Vodka Cocktails with gourmet canapes by CaterMe and close up magic by Julian James. The evening was hosted by Chelsey Baker and Richard Farleigh and featured a stunning fashion show by celebrity designer Charles Svingholm. Guests were treated to Vicinitee VIP goody bags and a spectacular show to find The City’s first business model. The model entrepreneurs were groomed by leading hair experts ghd and had makeovers by the Nouveau

Beauty Group before delivering their business pitches to an audience of well over 500 people. Charlotte Edwards walked away with the winner’s trophy, a designer award by EFX, personal mentoring from Richard Farleigh, £10,000 worth of business coaching, £5,000 worth of office supplies, a photographic campaign and £500 worth of hair & make-up products. Membership is now available to city professionals working within properties managed by Broadgate Estates, readers of Vicinitee Magazine and registered users of Vicinitee.com. For more information please visit www.vicinitee.com/vip

Fashion Show by Charles Svingholm

With many thanks to:

RUNWILD M

out about

Uncover The City Each summer the City of London Festival brings the City’s unique buildings and outdoor spaces to life with an extensive artistic programme of music, visual arts, film, walks and talks, much of it free to the public. Inaugurated in 1962 to revitalise the cultural life of the City, the festival has established itself as one of the UK’s leading arts events. This year it opens at the Guildhall Old Library with the Portuguese Chamber Orchestra making its UK debut, and with virtuoso Brazilian pianist Cristina Ortiz as soloist in Chopin’s Piano Concerto No 2. This is to be followed by an outdoor performance in Guildhall Yard, specially designed by Luke Jerram, where 21 young pianists will play a newly commissioned work for 21 upright pianos by Richard Causton, drawing on all 21 of Chopin’s Nocturnes.

out & about

connoisseur

Pop Under The Hammer Own a piece of pop history at the Popular Culture: Rock and Pop Memorabilia sale at Christie’s South Kensington, bursting with objects to cater for collectors of all ages, representing icons of music from 1950s to the 1990s, as well as present-day superstars. Highlights range from the largest single-owned collection of The Who memorabilia ever to come on the market, an acoustic Yamaha FG-340 guitar once owned and played by George Harrison, and a Gibson Les Paul guitar with sunburst finish, owned and played by Steve Jones of the Sex Pistols circa 1975/76. A must for pop culture fanatics or those wanting to spoil a loved one. Christie’s South Kensington 24 June at 12 noon www.christies.com

21 June–9 July, 0845 120 7502 www.colf.org

Champagne on The Lawn On the perfectly manicured lawn outside the Corney & Barrow wine bar lies the venue for the highly successful Corney & Barrow Golf Croquet League. The location on Exchange Square is perfect for soaking up the sun with a chilled glass of Taittinger Champagne, watching City workers battle it out to become the number one croquet duo in the City. Starting on 10 May, 48 teams will compete in their lunch hours and after work on the green on Exchange Square, being knocked out one by one until the finale on 6 July. With a delicious barbecue, canapés, and free-flowing Taittinger to toast the proceedings, this is not only the hottest competition in the City, attracting around 1,500 to the square, but also one of the hottest events of the year. 10 May–6 July 020 7265 2500 www.corney-barrow.co.uk

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connoisseur out & about

London Flavour

Spirit of Summer

Direct your rumbling stomach to Regent’s Park for four days of al fresco gluttony as more than 40 of London’s best restaurants, including a flurry of Michelin stars, show off their culinary handiwork. ‘Taste of...’ has become a nationwide phenomenon, with events taking place in cities all over the country. Of these, the London event in Regent’s Park must be one of the most enjoyable. Work your way through a range of miniature speciality dishes – visitors can sample seven or eight small courses in a meal – hot off the plates from Le Gavroche, Gordon Ramsay’s Boxwood Cafe, L’Atelier du Joël Robuchon, and Theo Randall.

Once a low-key afternoon event, the Marylebone Summer Fayre has become an atmospheric street festival that’s not to be missed. Organised by the Howard de Walden Estate in support of the Teenage Cancer Trust, there’s something for everyone, whether it’s dining al fresco, dancing in the street, relaxing in the park to the sounds of the concert with a glass of Pimms and a hog roast, or simply wandering the streets and picking up great gifts from the vast array of stalls. Divided into colour-coded zones, the Fayre has an Orange Zone that’s sure to be the first stop for parents, with everything from bike rides, a bungee trampoline and World Cup penalty shoot-out to keep the kids entertained. The Blue Zone boasts live music as well as plenty of al fresco dining and drinking spots, while the Green Zone hosts a farmers’ market full to the brim with local, seasonal produce.

Regent’s Park 17–20 June www.tastefestivals.com/london

Jewel in the Crown This June, Kensington Gardens will provide the stunning backdrop to Art Antiques London, a new art and antiques fair aimed at both the seasoned connoisseur and novice admirer of beauty and opulence. Art Antiques London will be held in a beautiful custom-built marquee opposite the Royal Albert Hall, adjacent to the site of the Great Exhibition of 1851. The Fair’s participants are leading specialists in a wide range of disciplines, including furniture, paintings, jewellery, Böttger White Meissen Porcelain, Coffee Pot and Cover, gilded with Chinese figures and Magicians, c. 1718–1720. Every object exhibited at the Fair is rigorously examined and vetted for quality and authenticity, so collectors can be assured they can buy with confidence. 10–16 June, Albert Memorial West Lawn Kensington Gardens www.haughton.com

Marylebone Village 13 June, 10am to 5pm www.marylebonevillage.com

Finch and Co

Your chance to savour Winston Churchill’s favourite Cuban cigars when 50 Romeo y Julieta Piramidos, preserved in pristine condition for almost 60 years, go under the hammer at C. Gars Ltd’s vintage cigar auction at the Boisdale Belgravia. Over 150 lots of the most exquisite aged, rare and vintage Havana cigars will be on offer with Brian Ebbesen, formerly of Christie’s, conducting the auction from 7pm in his own inimitable style. A Champagne and canapé reception from 6pm let’s you indulge in some of the finest English Market Selection UK regional edition Havana cigars.

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Holly Johnson

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Smoking Hot

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LONDON Homes&

PROPERTY Showcasing the finest homes in your area

Covering The City, CANARY WHARF, DOCKLANDS & SE LONDON

KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

New Providence Wharf E14

Indescon Court E14

We are delighted to offer this spacious one bedroom. This flat also offers a balcony which offers views of Canary Wharf. The property is furnished to a very high standard. The development also benefits from state of the art free gym and pool facilities, sauna, Jacuzzi and 24 hour concierge.

We are delighted to offer this three bedroom furnished apartment. South Quay DLR and the Jubilee Line are also a short walk from the development. In brief the accommodation comprises of a spacious open plan living area, the reception room has wooden floors. Available Now.

£325 per week

£550 per week Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Orchard Place E14

The Zenith, Commercial Road E14

A modern two double bedroom warehouse conversion for rent in this spacious and stylish development. The development is situated within a short walk of East India Dock DLR. The property boasts open plan living, fully fitted kitchen with all mod cons and a parking space. This apartment is available from the end of May and offered furnished or unfurnished.

Stylish and spacious two double two bathroom apartment set in the brand new development over looking Limehouse Marina and next to Limehouse DLR. This contemporary apartment has been fitted to a high standard boasting a fully fitted open plan kitchen, beautiful furnishings, wooden floors, balcony and underground parking.

£365 per week

£375 per week

Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

City Harbour E14

Landmark West Tower E14

We are delighted to offer this stylish 5th floor, two bedroom two bathroom duplex apartment. Set within the ever popular City Harbour development this apartment offers size, modern living and panoramic river views via a superb roof terrace. Being closely located to Canary Wharf, a walk to work is the norm. Available in July.

We are pleased to offer this two double bedroom apartment. With unique features that are hardly found elsewhere in Canary Wharf, this apartment features floor to ceiling windows with excellent views of The River Thames, Canary Wharf and The o2 Dome. The block is also within walking distance of Canary Wharf Jubilee Line tube station.

£495 per week Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

£525 per week

Flynn Court E14

Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

The Forge E14

We are proud to offer this beautifully furnished two double bedroom, one bathroom modern apartment. This apartment provides views towards Canary Wharf. Being located in the ever popular Canary Wharf, it is a luxury being able to walk to work within minutes. Underground parking, daily porter can also be found. Available end of June.

This two bedroom apartment offers contemporary accommodation at a reasonable price, with easy access into Canary Wharf and Bank. Wood floors are found throughout the living area, luxury kitchens and bathrooms complete this property. This apartment is offered furnished and is available in July.

£360 per week

£350 per week

Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

Boardwalk Place E14

Lumina Building E14

A large spacious two double bedroom, two bathroom fully furnished dockside apartment in a sought after development. Modern fully fitted kitchen, light and airy living/dining room with large balcony offers good space and views of dock. Facilities include protected parking, lift and porter. Available in June.

We are proud of offer this well presented apartment available for rent within this modern development. Offering modern living with all the creature comforts along with excellent storage and front desk porter. The apartment consists of reception, open plan kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms and a balcony giving views across the river. Available in June.

£350 per week

Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Hamilton House E14

Eaton House E14

A delightful two double bedroom apartment in the tranquil gated development of Victory Place. Situated in a quiet area just off Narrow Street the development is a few minutes walk away from the DLR for fast access to the city and 15 minutes walk from the bustling shops, bars and eateries in Canary Wharf. Facilities include porter and residents gym.

We are delighted to have on offer this fully furnished apartment found within one of Canary Wharf’s most prestigious developments. This flat includes large master bedroom with en-suite bathroom as well as a separate guests cloakroom, open plan lounge/diner & fully fitted kitchen. Parking is also available.

£375 per week

Knight Frank Canary Wharf Lettings 020 7512 9955 cwharf@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank.co.uk/Sales

Settlers Court EXX Well laid out two bedroom apartment situated on the second floor of a popular portered development. Presented in good order throughout, the property benefits from a wealth of storage space and easterly views from all principal rooms. Leasehold. £290,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Goodhart Place EXX A well presented and spacious two bedroom apartment situated on the first floor of a purpose built portered development. The apartment profits from a private balcony with views over Limehouse marina. Leasehold. £545,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

New Providence Wharf E14 Light and well proportioned two bedroom apartment located on the first floor of this desirable portered riverside development with off street parking and wonderful views overlooking the Thames and the O2 arena. Leasehold. £480,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Basin Approach E14 Well proportioned two bedroom apartment located on the fourth floor of a portered development. With south facing views over Limehouse marina, the property has a wonderful private balcony and is presented in excellent order throughout. Leasehold. £549,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank.co.uk/Sales

Discovery Dock East EXX Excellent two bedroom flat situated on the sixteenth floor of a well maintained pottered development close to Canary Wharf. The property profits from a lovely wide reception room with dock views and access onto a large private terrace. Leasehold. £580,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Anchorage Point EXX West facing three bedroom penthouse duplex situated on the top two floors of a well maintained portered development. The apartment profits from wonderful views over the river and towards both Canary Wharf and the City. Leasehold. £950,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Princes Court E14 Wonderfully presented Danish Style, modern family house presented in good order throughout and offering beautiful views of the River Thames and Greenland dock. £625,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

Commercial Wharf E14 ith glorious river views , a spacious flat extending to some 3018 sq ft full of character and original features refurbished to very high standards. Share of Freehold. £1,500,000 Knight Frank Canary Wharf Sales 020 7512 9966 cwharf@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

Riviera Court, St. Katharine’s Way E1W Lovely two double bedroom two bathroom 3rd floor riverside apartment based in west Wapping close to St Katharine’s Dock and a short walk to Tower Hill and The City. Offering 1119 sq ft / 104 sq mtr and boasting a good size reception room with a separate fitted kitchen and a private terrace and lovely views of the river Thames. £625 per week Knight Frank Wapping Lettings 020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

Freetrade Wharf E1W

Lexington Building, City Road EC1Y Modern split level two bedroom two bathroom apartment located in this popular 24 hour portered development next to Old Street underground station. This bright flat has a fully fitted kitchen, two bathrooms with showers, nice wooden floors, terrace with roof top views and available furnished. £595 per week Knight Frank City Lettings 020 7606 1560 gary.hall@knightfrank.com

Gallery Lofts, Hopton Street SE1

Lovely one bedroom apartment set in this secure 24 hour portered development moments from Limehouse DLR. This 7th floor modern flat has a smart fully fitted kitchen, bathroom with shower, wooden floors, parking and a balcony with stunning views of the river. The block also boasts a swimming pool, gym and sauna. Available furnished.

Stylish two bedroom, split level loft apartment located in this outstanding development next to The Tate Modern and River Thames. This beautiful 1450 sq ft apartment has been finished to a high standard boasting open plan reception room with double height ceilings, mezzanine level, multiple terraces and impressive views

£330 per week

£1,500 per week

Knight Frank Wapping Lettings 020 7480 6848 wapping@knightfrank.com

KnightFrank.co.uk/Lettings

Liberty House, Ensign Street E1 Split level three bedroom Penthouse

Split level three bedroom two bathroom apartment based on the top floor of this purpose built block close to Tower Hill, St Katharineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dock and Aldgate. This smart west facing flat has a large open plan kitchen reception room, access on to a private balcony, three good size double bedrooms, two smart bathroom suites with showers, wooden floors in the reception room and underground parking. ÂŁ625 per week

Knight Frank Wapping Lettings wapping@knightfrank.com 020 7480 6848

KnightFrank.co.uk/Sales

Telfords Yard E1W A 2 bedroom warehouse conversion in superb order and full of style. The flat has a larger than usual reception room, unusually high ceilings, lots of windows and a lovely wooden floor throughout. 100 sq m (1085 sq ft). Leasehold 100 years. £585,000 Knight Frank Wapping Sales 020 7480 6848 sales@knightfrank.com

New Crane Wharf E1W Well presented studio apartment situated on the third floor of a warehouse conversion, the property benefits from wood strip flooring throughout and a wealth of original warehouse characteristics. 45 sq m (486 sq ft). Share of freehold. £305,000 per week Knight Frank Wapping Sales 020 7480 6848 sales@knightfrank.com

Telfords Yard E1W A striking and very spacious flat in a substantial building with exposed brick, high ceilings and plenty of storage space. Entrance hall, ‘L’ shaped reception room, kitchen, bathroom, en suite shower room, lift, porter. 130 sq m (1402 sq ft). Leasehold 100 years. £630,000 Knight Frank Wapping Sales 020 7480 6848 sales@knightfrank.com

Tamarind Yard E1W A light and bright second floor flat in Tamarind Yard, West Wapping, a stones throw from Waitrose and a short walk in to St Katharine Docks. The flat has 2 good double bedrooms both with en suite and a separate WC. 80 sq m (864 sq ft). Leasehold 102 years. £445,000 Knight Frank Wapping Sales 020 7480 6848 sales@knightfrank.com

City Ofﬁce 020 7236 8398 city@hamptons-int.com

www.hamptons.co.uk

Sugar House, E1 Cliffords Inn, EC4

£1,250,000 Leasehold £595,000 Leasehold This stunning 2 bedroom penthouse offers a delightful roof terrace A superb 2 bedroom apartment in this popular block on the set over 2 floors, in addition to a study created in the master western edge of the City, with a southerly aspect and beautiful bedroom, there is an abundance of storage space. views over St Dunstan’s Church.

Millharbour, E1 Mitre Street, EC3

£1,250,000 Leasehold £399,950 Leasehold Hamptons are delighted to present this wonderfully bright and A stunning two bedroom apartment with an abundance of natural airy 3 bedroom duplex penthouse apartment in a highly desirable light on the third floor of this converted tea warehouse, away from development in the heart of the Docklands. busy traffic and adjacent to the Gherkin.

Dandridge House, E1 £1,000,000 Leasehold Ravenscroft Street, E2 £720,000 Leasehold Featherstone Street, EC1 £395,000 Leasehold Garden Walk, EC2 £390,000 Leasehold Set over 4 floors, this delightful 4 bedroom Shoreditch house has Hamptons are delighted to offer to the market this incredibly bright An impressive apartment within this development 3 bedroom penthouse apartment withpopular excellent living space and offering stylish contemporary accommodation on one floor two terraces in a portered development. with its own street entrance and private car parking.

perty address

A smartliving contemporary apartment heart oflocated just superb space, a patio gardenlocated as wellin asthe a terrace, Shoreditch. Finished to a high standard the property enjoys access north of Columbia Road. to a private balcony and a communal roof terrace.

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Prescot Street, E1 Upper Thames Street, EC4 Firstname Surname

£340,000 Leasehold £325,000 Leasehold A superbly designed one bedroom split level apartment on the first don House Department 01403 262828 With easterly river views towards1930s Southwark Bridge and fl oor of a smart, award-winning conversion, complete with Office London House Department 01403 262828 additional basement storage, this 5th floor apartment would shamcountryhouse@hamptons-int.com lifts and concierge. Email horshamcountryhouse@hamptons-int.com make the ultimate City base or rental investment. Left Hand Page Footer

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Ludgate Square, E1 Barbican, EC2 Price on application

£265,000 Leasehold £565,000 Leasehold Set on the third floor of a popular lift-serviced building, this Pricea on application This duplex offers lovely view over thepositioned garden and lake. The delightful studio apartment is perfectly forthe anybody Freehold interior remains true to the Grade Freehold wanting a short walk into the City. II listed heritage, with a smart modern kitchen and 60’s bathroom suite.

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Tower Bridge Ofﬁce 020 7407 3173 towerbridge@hamptons-int.com

www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk

Clifton Villa,Square, SE3 Providence SE1

New Concordia Wharf, SE1 Axis Court, SE16

Pier Head, E1W Cayenne Court, SE1

Butlers Wharf, SE1 £2,500,000 Share of Freehold Butlers & Colonial Wharf, SE1 £389,000 Leasehold

£3,250,000 Freehold £585,000 Share of Freehold A beautiful Georgian villa (4000 sq ft) with large mature walled A waterfront two bedroom apartment within the popular gardens, in a prime location on the famous quiet, leafy Cator Estate Providence Square development, having a terrace directly of Blackheath. overlooking the Japanese style water garden.

£1,950,000 Share of Freehold £585,000 Leasehold A charming Grade II listed lower ground floor three bedroom A two bedroom 1st floor apartment within the popular Cayenne apartment set within a period conversion with beautiful communal Court development, having a Westerly courtyard facing balcony riverfront gardens and off street parking. from the reception. Leisure complex and parking.

£2,500,000 Share of freehold £695,000 Leasehold A spectacular example of modern architecture. Designed by A beautifully presented 951 sq ft two bedroom penthouse apartment Mark Guard, this 2067 sq ft apartment offers one of the most built in 2005 by Berkeley Homes with balcony, spacious terrace and contemporary living experiences in London. underground parking.

A spectacular, refurbished three bedroom Butlers Wharf sub A stylish one bedroom apartment on the 1st floor of a gated & penthouse, enjoying uninterrupted river views, from Tower Bridge portered development, with re-fitted kitchen and bathroom, located to Canary Wharf. in the heart of Shad Thames.

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Tannery Lofts, SE1SE16 Windsor Court,

£1,700,000 Leasehold £395,000 Leasehold A superb 3,000 sq ft loft penthouse next to fashionable Bermondsey An upgraded, 4th floor, 880 sq ft, dual aspect, two bedroom Street, with two/three bedrooms, vaulted ceilings, working fire and apartment in a gated, portered development, with river views from roof terrace with hot tub. Garage space. the balcony and parking.

Pickfords Wharf, SE1 SE1 Bridgewalk Heights,

£1,650,000 Leasehold £465,000 Leasehold A highly desirable 1830 sq ft penthouse apartment set over the top 2 A top (3rd) floor two double bedroom duplex apartment, with floors of this popular riverside block. Offered with 2 bedroom suites, en-suite to master and two receptions, within 200m of London private courtyard & balcony. Bridge station.

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City Ofﬁce 020 7236 8399 citylettings@hamptons-int.com

www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk

Baltimore TabernacleWharf, Street,E14 EC2A

per week £450 per week London Wall, EC2M Prices start from £270 £430 per week A selection of studios and one bedroom apartments in this brand new luxury development, benefiting from either a balcony or terrace and 24 hour A one bedroom apartment with plenty of character, contemporary A two bedroom apartment in the heart of the City only moments concierge. The apartments are finished to a superb standard with hard wood floors, contemporary kitchen and luxury bathroom. Ideally located kitchen and private terrace located in a former warehouse. to Liverpool Street and Bank stations. The apartment benefits moments from Crossharbour DLR and all local amenities. Available immediately, furnished, unfurnished or part furnished. from air conditioning and contemporary decor.

Barbican, EC2 £450 per week St Marks Street, E1 £585 per week A newly refurbished triplex apartment in the prestigious Barbican A three double bedroom penthouse apartment arranged overand two complex. The apartment benefits from two private balconies levels providing a bright living area with twoAvailable balconies.furnished. Parking is parking is available by separate negotiation. available by separate negotiation.

Property address Property Property address address

Christina Street, EC2 £450 per week Trinity Square, EC3N £590 per week A bright warehouse conversion with exposed brickwork, high ceilings A stunning two flbedroom bathroom duplex apartment and hard wood oors. Thetwo apartment is situated between thewith Square panoramic views over the Tower of London and the Riverfurnished. Thames. Mile and Shoreditch triangle. Available furnished or part

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High Timber Street, EC4V

£330 per week Firstname A spaciousSurname two double bedroom apartment in this stunning development Firstname Surname A modern one bedroom apartment in this popular centrally Office London House Department 01403 262828 Firstname Surname just one minute from the Thames. Fantastic location opposite thelocated Tower riverside development with Fabulous concierge and impressive tropical Office London House Department 01403 Email horshamcountryhouse@hamptons-int.com of London and Tower Bridge. views! Available furnished. Office London House Department 01403262828 262828 atrium. Email Emailhorshamcountryhouse@hamptons-int.com horshamcountryhouse@hamptons-int.com

£475 per week

Little Britain, EC1A £430 per week A superbly located one bedroom apartment, finished to the highest Price on application A super split level two use bedroom apartment in the slate, historical standard with superb of materials including oak and steel Price on Freehold Price on application application Smithfield area, overlooking pleasant gardens, situated in a giving it charm and character. Available furnished. Freehold Freehold portered mansion block between St Paul’s and Barbican.

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Tower Bridge Ofﬁce 020 7407 3172 towerbridgelettings@hamptons-int.com

www.hamptons.co.uk www.hamptons.co.uk

Reeds Wharf, SE1 SE16 Riverview Heights,

£2,000 per week £725 per week An outstanding 2734 sq ft, four bedroom apartment with an amazing An outstanding riverside duplex apartment within close proximity 34’8 x 29’8 reception room boasting vaulted ceilings, exposed brick work, to Shad Thames, boasting three roof terraces with river views, large mezzanine, kitchen diner, balcony and terrace offering river views. contemporary decor featuring a stylish glass staircase leading to spacious reception room and kitchen dining room. Allocated parking. Furnished.

Corbetts Tea TradeWharf, Wharf,SE16 SE1

£600 per week £800 per week A charming two double bedroom apartment arranged in a fantastic A spacious two double bedroom two bathroom apartment riverside warehouse conversion boasting a large reception room, with balcony offered in excellent order and arranged within a balcony with direct views of the river Thames. prestigious warehouse development. The apartment benefits from 24 hour concierge and allocated secure parking. Furnished.

Horseshoe Wharf, SE1 £750 per week Wheat Wharf, SE1 £550 per week Tempus Wharf, SE16 £575 per week Caraway Apartments, SE1 £550 per week A fantastic two double bedroom two bathroom apartment boasting a A stunning two bedroom warehouse conversion which has recently A beautiful tworoom bedroom two bathroom apartment offered large reception with open plan kitchen and balcony withinviews of excellent order and floors, exposed small the river Thames andboasting the City.wood Situated in the heart ofbrick, Borough Market. balcony with river views and communal terrace. Furnished.

An exceptionally twoand double bedroom been refurbished spacious throughout boasts recentlyapartment refurbished with two ensuite bathrooms a guest cloakroom. Offered refurbished bathrooms, openand plan kitchen, wood floors and parking. in excellent order throughout and boasting two balconies, allocated parking and communal lesuire complex. Furnished.

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Eagle Wharf, SE1 £525 per week St Thomas Wharf, E1W £375 per week The Circle, SE1two bedroom apartment overlooking £380 per week Merganser Court, E1Wapartment boasting £475 per week A beautifully presented Tower An extremely spacious one bedroom two

Bridge Piazza boasting exposed brickwork, wood floors, modern A one bedroom apartment boasting reception room with wood decor, and balcony and overlooking off street parking. floors balcony pretty communal garden. Situated in the heart of Shad Thames. Furnished.

bathrooms large reception roomboasting with open kitchen and balcony A beautiful and one abedroom apartment spacious with direct views of the river bedroom and reception roomThames. both with direct access to balcony overlooking St Katharine’s Dock, parking and porter. Furnished.

A network of offices - local, national and international.

Onenetwork address.ofThousands of properties. www.hamptons.co.uk An expanding over 70 offices - local, national and international

London's Finest Properties

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Atlanta, Deals Gateway SE13

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • On-Site Swimming Pool & Gymnasium • 24hr Concierge Service • 10mins Walk to Greenwich • Nr. Deptford Bridge DLR

£250 PW

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The Landmark, Marsh Wall E14 • One Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 8th Floor • On-Site Gymnasium • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. South Quay DLR

£350 PW

Heligan House, The Watergardens, E16

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Alaska Building, Deals Gateway

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Ontario Tower, Canary Wharf E14

• Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • On-Site Facilities • Allocated parking • 24hr Concierge • Nr. Deptford Bridge DLR Station

• Studio Apartment • Fully Furnished • 18th Floor • On-Site Health and Fitness Ctr • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. Blackwall DLR

£285.00 PW

£285 PW

WE URGENTLY REQUIRE MORE PROPERTIES THOROUGHOUT LONDON FOR AWAITING TENANTS AND PURCHASERS

Eden House, The Watergardens, E16

• 5th floor • 2 bedroom/2 bathroom • Nearly 1,000 sq ft exc. terrace • Overlooking landscaped gardens • Secure underground parking • Moments for Canada water tube

• 4th floor • 2 bedroom/2 bathroom (one en-suite) • Direct views over tranquil landscaped gardens • Secure underground parking • Moments from Canada Water tube

£515,000

£395,000

The Aurora Building, Blackwall Way, E14

• 12th floor one bedroom apartment • Stunning uninterrupted views • Large wrap-around balcony • Secure allocated parking • Moments from Blackwall DLR

£349,950

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Seacon Tower, Hutchings Street E14 • Two Bedroom Apartment • Fully Furnished • 13th Floor • Gymnasium & Spa Facilities • 24hr Concierge Service • Nr. Canary Wharf DLR

£350 PW

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New Providence Wharf, Canary Wharf E14 • Two Bedroom Apartment • Furnishings Optional • Balcony • 16th Floor • Allocated Parking • 24hr Concierge Service

£450 PW

New Providence Wharf, Fairmont Avenue, E14

• Two bedroom/two bathroom • Beautiful views over landscaped gardens and O2 • Superior level of specification • Secure underground parking • 24hr concierge and health suite

£495,000

Sales | Lettings | Corporate Services | Property Management www.liferesidential.co.uk

Central London 020 7582 7989

West London 020 8896 9990

Docklands 020 7476 0125

Deptford & Greenwich 020 8692 2244

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27/05/2010 12:54:37

homes & property

Green Light Combining seamless style and substance is hard to do. Oliver Balcazar might have found a solution

ccording to figures from the Department of Energy and Climate Change published in March, British households wasted £500 million in heating costs last year due to cracks in the walls and roofs of poorly insulated homes. In London alone, £62.5 million was wasted as energy escaped through these cavities and cracks. Households across the country are constantly being encouraged to explore different ways of reducing their carbon footprint, and now eco-friendly blinds and shutters offer a new opportunity for energy efficient insulation.

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While roof insulation and double glazing are widespread methods of insulation, window blinds are a lesser known tool against heat loss and energy wastage. Fitted at this time of year especially, blinds help keep interiors cool in the summer by reducing ‘solar gain’ – cutting down the amount of the sun’s heat transferred through windows into your rooms. Air conditioning units then won’t have to work quite so hard to keep a living area or working environment cool. This spring, Jethro and Bradley Kruger of Docklands Blinds embrace this potential for effective heat insulation by launching an innovative range of solarpowered, remote-controlled internal shutters. This brand new, exclusive collection comes in a range of styles and colours to suit home or office, and are an ideal way to save money whilst reducing that allimportant carbon footprint. “We’re thrilled to be featuring these eco-friendly shutters in our catalogue,” says Jethro. “It’s all a part of our environmental policy to source and promote a product range that minimises heat loss without compromising great design and a luxury feel. The shutters act as internal double glazing that could save you a substantial amount when the heating bill arrives.” The Department of Energy and Climate Change has urged people to insulate their homes more effectively and save up to £160 on average, yet the main point of heat loss in a building is through the windows. Inefficient windows may increase heating costs by 10 - 25% in the winter, and air conditioning costs by as much as 75% in the summer. The thought of buying new blinds may seem counter-intuitive to saving money, but if you calculate the cost of insulating window coverings over a long period, the costs you save on heating and cooling can easily outweigh the initial investment. If you don’t have window coverings or need to replace yours, then the incremental cost of these energy-efficient products over less costly blinds or shades will easily save you money in the long term. As Joan Ruddock, the energy and climate change minister, says: “Insulating your home properly is in everyone’s interest – keeping you warm and cutting bills as well as tackling climate change”. n For more information, visit www.docklandsblinds.com, or call 020 7538 1022.

Beautifully crafted townhouses & apartments in Barnsbury, Islington’s most desirable quarter.

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Rush houR a little diffeRent at silveR WhaRf if your evening rush hour finds you relaxing on your balcony, watching barges slowly chugging by and lazily disturbing the odd duck or two in their wake, then you must be living at Silver wharf in Limehouse. Silver wharf is a landmark new residential development overlooking the Limehouse canal and only a 25 minute walk from Canary wharf. with intelligently designed one and two bedroom apartments and duplex apartments featuring luxurious and contemporary interiors, Silver wharf is a cut above the rest.

SilverWharf Limehouse Cut e14

Marketing Suite now open Book By appointMent on:

0800 954 5324

www.silverwharf.co.uk

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homes & property

A New Life in the Country? Every year thousands of people choose to move their lives, and their loved ones, from urban dwellings to country retreats. According to Jonathon Hopper, managing director of Garrington, featuring heavily on the wish list is usually the attraction of a slower pace of life, lower crime rates, improved quality of life, and fresh air and space. However, not everyone is prepared for the realities of rural living

e have worked for several clients who imagined that, just because their lifestyle was about to change, they were going to change with it. It can be so tempting to think a new you is going to emerge from the experience of moving to the country. But it doesn’t always happen. If you’re always too busy now, you’ll be too busy in the country. The biggest danger of all is imagining that you’ll suddenly have more time. But if you have a job, a family, or a time-consuming hobby, there really won’t be any more free time after you’ve moved than there is now. In fact, there’ll probably be less because so many things take longer. The simple life really can be simple in all sorts of ways. You might not be connected

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to mains gas or drainage, the nearest cashpoint or restaurant could be 20 miles away, and taxis are an unheard-of luxury. The chances of getting a pizza delivered are slim, and when you’re used to the roar of traffic outside your window, the silence of a country night can be deafening to begin with. Perhaps the biggest shock is the realisation that the network of friends that made city life bearable are no longer close by. That’s not to say you won’t see your city friends at all, it’s just that when you do, they’ll stay for the whole weekend. Think very carefully about the reasons behind your move and exactly what it is you’re looking to achieve. The reality sometimes doesn’t match the dream. Yes, you may fantasise of a life in the country, but that doesn’t automatically

mean you’re suited to it. The most important decision to get right is what type of a location you want to be in. After all, the definition of ‘rural’ is highly subjective; one persons ‘rural idyll’ is another persons ‘secluded and very scary’. When assessing whether, and how far to move, factor in both the costs and length of commute. The relevant commuting time is the doorto-door travel. Lots of families move out for more space and a better quality of family life; but in order to find, or afford, the desired space, one member of the family might have to spend three or four hours travelling every day. For many, life in the countryside surpasses expectations. Key to a successful move, though, is careful thought and planning and to be sure of your goals. n

Garrington finds and secures prime properties throughout the UK. For further information, call 020 7099 2773, visit www.garrington.co.uk or email info@garrington.co.uk

j u n e 2010

business • current affairs • fashion • health & beauty • travel • food & drink • motoring • uk & international property

Elephants

PARADE At the Royal Exchange

MAVERICK MONSIEUR

Raymond Blanc on straight talking food

THE CITY V CANARY WHARF n

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Who will win the head to head

travel gadgets motoring interiors property JUNE

2010

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