The Court Circular | Issue 7 | Winter 2021/22

Celebrating

the GIFT of HOPE

Roll Models

How Broken Biscuits promote acceptance

Rowing for Gold

Ollie Stanhope shares his medal-winning journey

Shiny Not New When second hand sparkles

CHAMPIONS OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY, CULTURE, CREATIVITY & CUISINE

Comfort, joy & hope

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS—

FRONT COVER IMAGE

Photography by Kim Craig

PHOTOS Credited as required

ILLUSTRATIONS Lisa Tolley

PRINTING Thank you to the team at 4-Print, West Molesey

This publication is printed on paper that is FSC® Certified.

DISTRIBUTION Thank you to our team of dedicated walkers!

THE TEAM—

The Circular Community C.I.C

Management, marketing &

advertising: Janine Macqueen

Creative direction, graphic design & marketing: Kim Craig

Editor: Lucy Donoughue editor@thecourtcircular.co.uk

Check out our ‘Say Hello’ page on thecourtcircular.co.uk for more editorial information

Contributors: Orin Carlin, Victoria Lazarevic, Alex Riley

ALL ENQUIRIES

Email: hello@thecourtcircular.co.uk

Printing and distribution of this publication is made possible by advertisers, crowdfunders and our team of volunteers – thank you! Content correct at time of press.

FOUR

Happy festive season! As the three of us come together to write this, we’re so aware of the possibility that by the time you read these words, life could have changed once again as it did last December. Right now, however, we are full of festive hope – hope that this year we’ll be able to celebrate, sing, embrace, support one another and make up for the joy we may have lost in the lockdown of Christmas 2020.

Should life change again in the coming weeks, we can all take comfort in knowing that we live in a strong and wonderful community where businesses, charities and individuals support each other without a moment’s hesitation. That’s the reason we started this magazine, we saw the immense efforts of so many people in and around the Court and we wanted to amplify these good deeds and encourage others to support in return.

One way you can most definitely support your community this festive season is by shopping, eating and socialising locally. Not only are you guaranteed high quality food, gifts and evenings out by doing so, but you’re supporting the local economy so that the businesses who kept us all going during the worst of Covid times can continue to survive and thrive as the pandemic starts to lessen in severity (fingers crossed!).

And finally, if you’d like to spread a little more joy, can we recommend you take a look at the work of Broken Biscuits (p10) and consider a donation to them as an alternative festive gift for a dog lover? Or maybe you can support Save the Children by shopping for something shiny, wonderful but certainly not new in Mary’s Living and Giving Shop in Teddington (p28) or any one of the charity shops in the Court who are doing great things for people in a time of need?

Whatever you do this Christmas, we hope it brings you great joy and happiness. Thank you for reading and supporting The Court Circular over the past year. We couldn’t be more grateful and we look forward to bringing you more community content in 2022.

Lucy, Janine & Kim – The Court Circular Founders

If you would like to advertise in upcoming editions, please email hello@thecourtcircular.co.uk

LOOK FORWARD TO...

ALSO IN THIS ISSUE—

5 FOCUS ON: DELIGHTFUL DECORATIONS

Beautiful baubles and glorious garlands available in the Court

10 BROKEN BISCUITS: WHEELY WONDERFUL!

How this special charity is changing the lives of people and animals alike

12 AROUND THE TABLE: LET’S DO BRUNCH!

Happy eating at Henry’s, East Molesey

16 CIRCLE OF INFLUENCE: FESTIVE FINDS

Gifts that will make you smile

20 ARTISTIC CIRCLES: ESHER THEATRE

The new venue throws open its doors

30 OUR CIRCLE OF FRIENDS: SMALL & BEAUTIFUL Stunning little local stores

Alan Bennet’s The Lady In The Van

The Barn Theatre, Molesey thebarntheatremolesey.co.uk

George Benson 16 June 2022

Court Palace Festival hamptoncourtpalacefestival.com

Paloma Faith 20 July 2022 Sandown Racecourse thejockeyclub.co.uk/live

INNER CIRCLE —

the big 6

5 6

Magical Molesey

Walton Road, East Molesey

2 December, 5 to 7pm

Diaries at the ready! There’s so much going on in and around the Court this Christmas so get yourself booked up, so you don’t miss out. Follow @hcourtcircular on Instagram for more news about Christmas cheer and community celebrations.

Christmas Championing

SHOP, SPEND, EAT, ENJOY LOCAL!

Palace of Stardust

Join in the festive fun with carol singing, stalls, the Christmas lights switch-on, late opening of wonderful Walton Road shops and more. This year there will again be a ‘no single-use plastic’ theme, with the opportunity to pick up a handmade Boomerang Bag to help you carry home your festive gifts and treats. lovemolesey.org

Percy the Park Keeper’s Winter Wander Trail

Claremont Landscape Garden

4 Dec 2021 – 3 Jan 2022

(exc Christmas Eve & Christmas Day)

The Court Circular Christmas Market

Vine Hall, East Molesey | 4 December, 11am – 3pm

Join us for our first ever Christmas market! There’ll be over twenty brilliant local makers, bakers, jewellers, brewers and bookstore founders selling their wares. Coffee, sweet delights, food and mulled wine will be available too, and you’ll be treated to choir singing in the afternoon. Free entry. Instagram @hcourtcircular

Hampton Court Palace | 8 Dec 2021 – 3 Jan 2022

Hampton Court Palace’s Christmas light trail winds through some of the palace’s stunning gardens and across a flickering moonlit ball in the East Front Gardens. You’ll hear ancient trees whisper their secrets and get to peek into mysterious miniature shadow worlds before being transported to another planet in the deepest depths of the Wilderness. Along the way, indulge in seasonal food and drink, as you experience the palace gardens after-hours as you’ve never seen it before. hrp.org.uk/hampton-court-palace

3

2

Christmas at Hampton Pool

Hampton Pool | 26 Nov 2021 to 9 Jan 2022

Why not take the plunge and swim in the moonlight and underneath the stars for a wonderful, watery, local experience? Sessions are 75 minutes long and a beautiful way to end the day. hamptonpool.co.uk

Cinderella

The Barn Theatre, West Molesey | 8-11 December

The Barn’s specially commissioned pantomime returns –Cinderella with a local twist! Just what you need to cheer you up and herald the start of Christmas. With a cast of goodies and baddies, oldies and youngies, you can cheer, boo, hiss and indulge in traditional panto fun. thebarntheatremolesey.co.uk

This winter, treat your little ones to a world of adventures at Claremont Landscape Garden on the Percy the Park Keeper’s Winter Wander Trail. Join in the fun with Percy and his animal friends and give nature a helping hand. nationaltrust.org.uk/ claremont-landscape-garden 4

Photos courtesy of HRP; Hampton Pool; The Barn Theatre; National Trust

FOCUS ON…

Delightful decorations! What’s your seasonal style? Are you a minimalist, a fan of tinsel, an advocate for glitter or an ambassador for a nature inspired approach? Whatever your preference, we reckon there’s a bauble or a stocking out there in the Court for you…

Juliet Turnbull, aka The Thames Mermaid

Earlier this year, artist Juliet Turnbull treated our Editor to a swim in the Thames – a very memorable moment for us all! That’s just one of the reasons we love her ceramic star tree decoration, featuring two friends taking a dip. Her other decorations feature a sweet robin and a kingfisher sporting a seasonal Santa hat. juliet-turnbull.com

Instagram @julietturnbull

Hampton Court Palace Gift Shop

We love living in the Court and the rich history of the area, and of course, our local palace. The Palace gift shop has some great Christmas present ideas, and we adore the collection of tree decorations depicting Henry VIII and his six wives. historicroyalpalaces.com

Made for You by Wendy Woo

Local creative Wendy makes a wide range of beautiful gifts for the home, including Christmas stockings and aprons. Wendy will be selling her crafts at The Court Circular Christmas Market at Vine Hall, on 4 December. etsy.com/uk/shop/WendyWooHandmade Instagram @handmade_for_you_by_wendywoo

Belle Epoque

Vintage and other treasures fill this lovely Walton Road gift grotto! Whether you’re looking for preloved or new, pop along and have a browse – you might just discover the perfect Christmas accessories to wrap up and take home. belleepoque.me.uk

Instagram @bellemolesey

Saturday 4 Dec 11am-3pm VINE HALL, VINE ROAD, EAST MOLESEY

If you are considering a move, you may be thinking of holding off until the new year, but the marketplace is currently filled with eager buyers.

According to the latest findings by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors with over one million homes sold by the end of August – a threshold not usually passed until October – analysts are suggesting 2021 could see more transactions completed than in any year since 2007. This is certainly a theme we have witnessed at local market level.

Despite many predicating a slowdown of enquiries after the phasing out of the stamp duty holiday, the reality is far from this, and there continues to be a steady trend in buyer demand and sales agreed. This is, of course, supported by a need for more space generally, a bigger garden or flexible home workspace, but the return of some workers to the office after more than a year of home working has also sparked a significant increase in interest for homes near commuter train stations.

Rightmove’s Tim Bannister commented, “While the demand to relocate or search for more space has by no means gone away, the numbers suggest that this will need to be balanced with easy transport access on office days, which has understandably been lower on the agenda for many over the last eighteen months.”

For an up-to-date valuation appraisal of your property, please contact Miles & Bird on – 020 3875 3875 or info@milesandbird.co.uk.

We look forward to seeing past and present clients at the Bridge Road Winter Wander event to be held on Thursday 9th December, 4 to 8pm.

Miles & Bird, 12 Bridge Road, East Molesey 020 3875 3875 | info@milesandbird.co.uk milesandbird.co.uk

THE COURT CIRCULAR

CHRISTMAS MARKET

We’re championing Christmas and supporting our local designers, makers and producers. Join us for an afternoon of shopping, celebration, conversation, coffee, Christmas nibbles & crackers!

Rowing for Gold

Molesey Boat Club member Ollie Stanhope won gold at the 2020 Tokyo Paralympic Games which finally took place earlier this year. The Court Circular met Ollie upon his return at Eight on the River to discuss his journey through the local community of schools and rowing clubs to Paralympic gold in Japan.

Words

| Victoria Lazarevic

Photo: ParalympicsGB

s you stroll along the towpath and hear rowers rhythmically gliding by this winter, you may just be a boat length away from an Olympic or Paralympic athlete. One of them may be 23 year-old Tokyo 2020 Paralympic gold medal winner, Ollie Stanhope.

When Ollie and I meet at Eight on the River, he explains that his Paralympic journey began unceremoniously after breaking his nose playing rugby at Halliford School and when his form tutor seized on the opportunity to encourage him to row. “He sees people that like to work hard, and I think that’s very much what I’m about,” Ollie says, sharing that he credits his parents, both Olympians, for this work ethic and perseverance.

According to his tutor, Ollie possesses “a dogged determination to succeed at whatever he does. School rugby, school rowing and now the full international ticket. He never sees a mountain that he will not climb”.

As a consequence of his tutor’s encouragement, Ollie’s rowing journey began at Walton Rowing Club before he moved to Molesey Boat Club when he was 14. He continued to row at Hampton Sixth Form then at Oxford Brookes University, where he’s currently studying Real Estate Management. Keen to point out that mountain wasn’t always easy to climb, Ollie shares that he was dropped from the university rowing team, because “My ergo (rowing machine) time wasn’t very good.”

Prior to university, Ollie had raced in the Princess Elizabeth Cup at Henley Royal Regatta in 2016 and then in the Thames Cup for Molesey Boat Club in 2017. Knowing Ollie’s talent was too good to be shelved British Rowing’s Chief Coach for

U23s and Juniors, Peter Sheppard suggested he might classify for the Paralympics and supported him through the classification process. “I was born with cerebral palsy, so my right side isn’t as mobile as my left side,” Ollie explains, sharing that his classification, PR3, focuses on ankle mobility.

He was selected for the PR3 4+ mixed coxed four and with his crew won three World Championship gold medals, supported throughout by his fellow club members. However, when the pandemic hit Ollie had to make adjustments to his competing and rowing practices. He continued to train in the only place he could – at home. His life-long dogged determination and ability to commit to training served him well. “Once you’ve done it one day, it’s easier to do it the next day and during the pandemic it gave me structure and a reason to wake up. I had something to aim for. Knowing whatever happens in the world there’d be a race for me to compete in at the end of it was a real driving force.

Ollie was subsequently selected for Team GB and made it to Tokyo, yet upon arrival he remained uncertain as to whether the team would race in light of the remaining issues around the pandemic. “I had a covid test the evening before the final and only when I got the result back negative, I thought – I’ll be doing this!”

So what was Ollie’s Olympic experience like? “At the start line I was just thinking about getting the job done,” he says .“And at the finish line?” I ask enthusiastically. Ollie chuckles, amused by the rise in my voice anticipating a jubilant reply. “I felt mostly relieved, “he responds calmly. ”We knew we were the favourites, but what was going through my head was making sure we didn’t do anything to stop us winning.”

“Knowing whatever happens in the world there’d be a race for me to compete in at the end of it was a real driving force.”

The experience of being at the Olympics made as much of an impression on Ollie as the race did. It was, he shares, “Like nothing I have ever experienced before, an extraordinary mix of cultures in one place. Everybody we met was so excited to be hosting the games and working to make the experience the best it possibly could be.”

Winning gold in Tokyo was a lifetime achievement for Ollie and returning back to the place he trained for success in Molesey was just as momentous. “It was like coming home,” he says. “It was nice to see the people who I’d trained with at the start of my career again. They played a key role in me getting into the sport – having fun with the guys is the main reason I row. There are very few sports where you need to work together to succeed so I see most of the guys I’ve trained with as brothers.”

In return, Molesey Boat Club celebrated Ollie’s success, as well as the equally amazing achievements of fellow MBC athletes Mohamed Sbihi and Rebecca Muzerie, upon their return to the UK with a boat naming ceremony to immortalise their wins in Tokyo.

This gesture and the long-standing work of the club has earned Ollie’s complete loyalty. “I admire the club’s values in terms of the way it really looks after people. When I’ve finished rowing, I plan to join the committee. I started rowing with a lot of volunteer coaches, so I look forward to being able to coach myself one day. I want to help people get into the sport because it’s a great sport to get into and it has a great community as well.”

And until then? “The last five years have been quite tough,” Ollie says honestly. “So it’s nice to take a little bit of a break now and do stuff for fun again instead of constantly having to win. The club does a great job of supporting people whatever they want to do, rowing full time or rowing for fun.”

You can Learn to Row at Molesey Boat Club

Find out more about adult Learn to Row courses and Indoor Go-Row at: moleseyboatclub.co.uk

Follow on Instagram @moleseybc

“There are very few sports where you need to work together to succeed so I see most of the guys I’ve trained with as brothers.”

Broken Biscuits is a charity with a big heart and a lot of love for animals of all shapes, sizes and differences. Their smallest canine ambassadors are making a huge impact when it comes to conversations around body acceptance too…

Words | Lucy Donoughue

Brilliant

Roll Models

I’ve always loved the notion that when you rescue a dog, they rescue you right back – and I’ve found that to be true many times in my life. However, after speaking with Founder of Broken Biscuits Cass Carney, I’m aware that this statement is way too simplistic. The truth is that when you give a dog a second chance at living a happy life, they can teach us all a thing or two about acceptance, resilience and difference.

Broken Biscuits is a phenomenal organisation, originally established in Molesey over a decade ago by Cass and her husband Tim. The charity actively supports disabled animals, specifically dogs who have been injured. Their core belief is that, as with humans, a life changing injury or illness need not be a life ending one.

All of Broken Biscuits’ amazing work started when Cass, who trained as a veterinary nurse, journeyed abroad with Tim, to support a neutering effort for stray animals in Eastern Europe. While working with these clinics as part of the Spay and Neuter Programme, Cass came across a husky who was severely paralysed and not available for adoption as the shelter believed it wasn’t possible for the dog to live a normal life with a family.

This broke Cass’ heart and was the catalyst for a conversation about support aids and programmes for disabled animals. After some trials, Cass and her partner decided to adopt animals in need themselves and bring them to the UK for rehabilitation work and to find new, loving families.

“We rehomed disabled dogs, dogs with missing limbs, or blind and deaf cats and dogs. Just all the

kind of ‘broken biscuits’ that people didn’t choose and that had great personalities and lots of love to give.” Cass shares kindly.

Over ten years later, Cass and Tim are now looking to build an 8-acre clinic in Lincolnshire to further expand upon their great work. Alongside their team in the Court, they continue to care for rescues, field applications for pet wheelchairs and mobility aids, and now they deliver talks in schools too.

“Our dogs teach the kids about differently shaped bodies and allow them to ask questions without embarrassment.”

The schools programme is aptly named Roll Models and has been such a huge success that it’s now booked up until the end of March 2023. Aided by some of Broken Biscuits canine ambassadors, these talks help students to understand the potential of life post injury and remove some of the misconceptions and fears around difference and disability.

“The school talks are mainly about body acceptance, bullying and inclusion,” Cass explains. “We’ve had a huge interest in them. Our dogs teach the kids about differently shaped bodies and allow them to ask questions without embarrassment.”

“We take in our two ‘roll models’ Otto and Phoebe,” Cass continues. “Students can come up and meet them, touch them and see where they’re missing the limb and the number of questions this generates is mind-blowing. It’s so much easier to broach wider topics of what happened, how they’ve healed and the importance of words you use when it comes to difference, when you start that conversation with a dog.”

Cass is dedicated to educating people about animals living a long and happy life after disability, and Broken Biscuits work incredibly hard to support people whose own pets have suffered a life-changing injury too.

Like the school talks, they’ve seen a massive increase in demand for this help, “We get a lot of requests, almost hourly, for equipment such as the wheelchairs for dogs, and we have to buy each piece as the request comes in and they’re expensive.

“We support a lot of low-income families and elderly people who’ve got elderly pets, but they can’t afford the equipment, which means the two of them are stuck at home rather than getting out and seeing other people daily,” Cass shares. “And we don’t want that for them.”

So how can the Court community support this need and Broken Biscuits too? “Giving the gift of mobility is the greatest thing you can do,” Cass smiles. “We’d welcome any and all donations.”

Watch out for…

Broken Biscuits on The Pet Show, ITV and a brand-new programme coming up on Channel 4 too! Vanessa from The Vet Station in East Molesey will feature too…

For more about about Broken Biscuits and the incredible work they do, visit brokenbiscuits.org or email info@brokenbiscuits.org Follow these amazing animals: facebook.com/BrokenBiscuits.org

If you’d like to get the perfect meaningful gift for the animal lover in your life this Christmas, then why not make a donation to Broken Biscuits on their behalf?

Theircore belief is that, as with humans,alifechanginginjury

We bring you a roundup of some our favourite places to eat and drink in around the Court. This issue we take a trip down Bridge Road for a weekend brunch at Henry’s Kitchen, share great places for breakfast, and, as the nights draw in, visit some local hostelries where a cosy winter welcome can be enjoyed…

Why I Love… Henry’s Kitchen, East Molesey by Alex Riley

A super Sunday brunch fit for a king…

more traditional fare. There’s plenty of vegan and vegetarian options to choose from too, and the pancakes making their way to a neighbouring table looked well worth a try on our next visit.

side plates

Fantastic fireside drinking, to warm you through after those brisk winter walks by the river…

Since opening in 2014, Henry’s Kitchen has become well-established within the strip of cafes and restaurants that line the river end of Bridge Road. We headed that way on a Sunday October morning and managed to grab the last available pavement table to sample their brunch menu and enjoy the welcome autumn sunshine.

The menu has a broad and varied selection of choices. There wasn’t only a nod to Henry VIII in the items on offer (ham and cheese sandwich fried in egg), some of his wives also make an appearance, with Catherine’s Breakfast (smashed avocado, sweet potato fries, scrambled eggs and cream cheese with a toasted muffin), Jane’s Breakfast (mushrooms, smashed avocado, poached eggs, grilled tomato and toast) and Anne’s Breakfast (sweet potato fries, chorizo, scrambled eggs and toast), all providing an interesting alternative to the

BRILLIANT BREAKFASTS…

Canela Cafe

Delicious range of breakfasts with a Columbian influence. Many say the best coffee in the area! Dog friendly too. Instagram @canelacafehamptoncourt

However, we opted for a Catherine’s Breakfast and Eggs Benedict. The sweet potato fries were excellent, just the right seasoning. The hollandaise on the perfectly cooked eggs was good too, with just the right amount of acidity. In addition, the fresh fruit cocktails and smoothies are well worth a try – ginger, kiwi and carrot juice was fresh and tasty with a good hit of fresh root ginger. Brunch for two with coffee and juice came to £30. The service was friendly and attentive.

Henry’s is open throughout the day, seven days a week (check their website for opening times) and serves traditional British and Mediterranean dishes as well as European cuisine. Henry’s is also a member of the Sustainable Restaurant Association and committed to their role as part of the local community, ethical sourcing of produce and their environmental impact.

Henry’s Kitchen, 9 Bridge Road East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9HA henrykitchen.co.uk | 020 8783 1020

The Court Circular always purchases meals at the restaurants we review.

Taste Cafe

The full range of breakfast favourites, with outdoor seating and cycle parking –friendly staff and atmosphere. tastehampton.co.uk

Miss Polly Cafe

A firm Molesey favourite in great locations on Walton Road and East Molesey Cricket Club by the river. Always a warm welcome. misspollycafe.co.uk

THE BELL INN, HAMPTON

Great riverside location with function room overlooking the river and live music nights. thebellinnhampton.co.uk

THE MUTE SWAN

Situated opposite Hampton Court Palace, with traditional pub style downstairs and restaurant upstairs. brunningandprice.co.uk/muteswan

THE ALBION

Right in the heart of Bridge Road and an excellent stop for a cosy winter warmer!

thealbioneastmolesey.co.uk

A ROSE ORIGINAL PRODUCTION

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DIRECTED BY LUCY MORRELL

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Bouncing back and being brilliant!

Words | Orin Carlin

In 1909, a strongminded group of girls gatecrashed the first ever Scout rally. Feeling that they were missing out on the outdoor activities enjoyed by their male counterparts, they called for an organisation of their own. And so, Girlguiding was born! Over 100 years later, that original spirit survives and thrives in the hearts of the equally passionate Rainbows, Brownies, Guides, Rangers and Young Leaders of today.

Mountainboarding, kitesurfing, zorbing and paragliding – these are just a few of the adventures on offer, along with camps, holidays, trips and weekly meetings.

7 to 21-year-olds felt more sad, anxious or worried during the pandemic. It seems crucial, now more than ever, that girls and young women have access to safe spaces in which they feel free to express their thoughts, outside of school and home.

Empowering girls and young women has always been at the centre of the charity’s mission. Thankfully, society has progressed a great deal since the beginning of the 20th century – the idea of a girl going camping is no longer met with disapproval – but that’s not to say that girls these days have it easy.

In fact, the Girls’ Attitudes Survey revealed that a staggering 67 per cent of

“Guiding is about just giving them that fun space where they can be themselves, where they haven’t got to worry about how boys in their peer group feel,” explains Hannah Roberts, County Commissioner for Girlguiding Surrey West. “It’s about being independent and learning how to stand on their own two feet. I think guiding gives girls that opportunity.”

Inspiring confidence in the young women around her is one of the most rewarding aspects of Hannah’s role. “It’s amazing the amount of parents I’ve had over the years who have said: ‘Oh my gosh, even though they’re only seeing you for an hour and a half a week, it has given them so much more confidence.’” she shares.

Girlguiding Surrey West also trains peer educators (aged 14-25) who visit units across the county, delivering different sessions, including the ‘Think Resilient’ module, which is all about bouncing back and paying attention to our mental health, has understandably resonated with girls at the moment. “The units have loved it!” Hannah says. “I do wonder whether that interaction of different year groups really helps, having older girls that they can look up to.”

Developing communication skills and making friendships are key parts of the guiding experience that suffered during

the height of the pandemic. Luckily, a gradual shift back to in-person meetings has taken place and Hannah is excited and positive about returning to larger-scale events – such as a Winter Wonderlandthemed adventure day for Rainbows.

Girlguiding Surrey West would not be able to provide the opportunities that it does without its support network of volunteers. Wondering how the organisation inspires such loyalty in its members, I ask Hannah about the relationship that she has with her team. “Some of my best friends are people that I’ve known in guiding for years; it’s multigenerational. As a woman in my thirties, I have a lot of friends that are in their fifties and their sixties hearing points of view from other people’s lived experiences, it’s amazing.”

Hannah Roberts, County Commissioner for Girlguiding Surrey West, talks to The Court Circular about the joy of inspiring girls and young women with challenge and adventure.

“It’s about being independent and learning how to stand

on their own two feet.”

Photo: Courtesy of GGSW

IT’SBABY,COLD OUTSIDE!

1 ‘Hampton Court Sunrise’ by Nadia Day Signed Limited Edition Giclee Print, £425 (framed), view-gifts.com

2 Lord of Misrule Gin, £38, hamptoncourtgin.com | 3 ‘Warm Hug’ Hand Soap, £14.95, mercadostore.uk | 4 Thea Clutch, £462, bubalondon.com

5 Bird’s Nest Cafe Wooden Toy, £105, Tender Leaf Toys available through threadbeardesign.co.uk

6 Polar Bear Ceramic Mug, £13.50, studiolustredesign.co.uk | 7 Seasonal Vase Arrangement, from £50, my-table.co.uk

Christmas is a wrap with our guide to the best and brilliant gift ideas from your favourite independent designers, makers and stockists…

Cold fridges, warm service

Molesey Refrigeration Centre has been a stalwart presence in Molesey since originally opening on Walton Road over fifty years ago and it has a reputation for service that is second to none. We catch up with one of team, Andrew Ives, to talk about how they’ve fared over the last few months.

Words | Alex Riley

Tell us a little bit about the history of Molesey Refrigeration Centre, Andrew?

We originally opened in 1968 and for the past 10 years we’ve operated from four units on Walton Road; each one deals with a specific aspect of the business, for example we have the Miele showroom, and one of our other showrooms units deals more specifically with items for fitted kitchens. The business is now part of the Euronics group, which is an international association of independent electrical retailers. We have always remained local and we feel like we’re very much a part of the local business community.

What do you think is the secret of your enduring success?

We consider and listen to the needs of our customers first. We have an excellent relationship with our suppliers and are able to offer a very wide range of products in one location where our customers can come and compare and contrast items before committing to a purchase. We are quite prepared to advise our customers to consider other options and are generally able to match the prices offered online – often with more choice. We pride ourselves on our knowledge of our products, and, if there is one we don’t like, we will not sell it!

The inevitable question – how have you fared over the last few months?

Generally, we have been lucky over lockdown. We were able to chat with customers on the phone and work from home and keep going as a non-essential retailer in a safe environment. And our

customers did of course require our services – more than ever in some cases and we were still able to make doorstep deliveries. Now that things have eased, we’re able to offer our full delivery and collection service once again, and when required the services of local tradespeople with whom we have developed good relationships over the years.

And how do you see the future for business, in 2022 and beyond?

In a nutshell to carry on as we are, whilst continuing to be fully committed to the increased sustainability and environmental considerations for the products we buy and sell. There are no great plans for expansion, and our overriding aim, as ever, is to provide a reliable, honest and trustworthy service to our customers. They continue to come back to us, so we hope we are doing something right!

‘We have always remained local and we feel like we’re very much part of the local business community.

Molesey Refrigeration Centre 51, 53 & 59 Walton Rd, East Molesey, KT8 0DP mrcentre.co.uk

“Brilliant service, no messing. Go in, pick what you want, pay and they deliver, customer service tip top… delivery men brilliant! Couldn’t have been more helpful… really nice guys! Really happy and would recommend them to everyone.

Review courtesy of yell.com

Behind the CURTAIN at ESHER THEATRE

Charlie Swift, Artistic Director of the newly opened Esher Theatre, shares his vision for this brilliant venue and his plans for 2022.

Words | Lucy Donoughue

Charlie Swift, Artistic Director of the newly opened Esher Theatre is standing in his venue’s beautiful bijou foyer with a basket of drinks and nibbles when I arrive to meet him. He’s in the middle of gearing up for a sold-out event with Harry Hill, and I’m happy to follow him as he runs through his pre-show routine.

After depositing the basket in one of the dressing rooms and showing me a second, he warmly checks in with the team members who are arriving to work the evening’s performance, asks for a minute and then re-emerges in a suit, ready for our chat and the joyful task of greeting artists and audience members alike.

what the sound engineers and lighting team were doing, I became interested and moved in that direction. Then I became interested in what the producers were doing and moved towards that area. I just moved on and on from there and ended up working on leisure and infrastructure projects, and then on one for myself –Esher Theatre.

How is this different to projects you’ve worked on before?

On previous larger corporate projects there is a point at which it’s not possible to be spontaneous and creative, but we don’t have those limitations here. At Halloween we changed the lightbulbs at the front of the venue, brought in Steve the Skeleton, just to create an atmosphere and have some fun. And just wait to see what we’re doing for Christmas… it’s going to be very special!

What are your hopes for 2022?

Just to carry on, expand, improve the bar and facilities even more. We’re working with Dyson on a hot and cool air system for the auditorium and plan to go completely green in the next two years by using the flat roof and solar panels to power the theatre’s infrastructure.

And finally, next year we’ll have our very own panto written by one of our patrons, the wonderful and highly acclaimed writer Eric Potts. It’s a version of Aladdin and it’ll be incredible.

It appears that Charlie has boundless energy and he’s working hard to make Esher Theatre a place that people really want to come to. I would argue he’s already achieving that. There’s been a huge amount of positive feedback since the theatre opened earlier this year and, as he later explains, he’s already programming shows in until 2024.

Here, while multi-tasking like a true theatre professional, Charlie shares more about his passion for performance and the hopes he has for the future.

How did you come to have a career in theatre Charlie?

I started my career as a musician but when I peeked behind the scenes to see

Tell us more about your ethos for Esher Theatre?

It’s an intimate space and we’re like a New York or LA venue, where we increase the emphasis on hospitality, experience and equipment. We want the theatre to feel warm, welcoming and somewhere people really want to visit or perform.

In terms of affordability, the companies who bring in the productions set the prices, but we strive to work with them to make sure the ticket prices are reasonable and fair. It’s the same with our products behind the bar. If I wouldn’t personally pay a certain amount for a drink, then why should I expect our audiences to? On the subject of cost, we also have free parking here after 7pm. That’s quite something.

4-11 DEC Dear Santa Live

15-18 DEC The Nutcracker Ballet

21 DEC Reginald D. Hunter

23 DEC Sing That Swing Christmas Show

31 DEC New Year’s Eve!

6-8 JAN The Truth Stops Here

19 JAN Round the Horne

Find out more about the upcoming programme at eshertheatre.com Follow on Instagram @eshertheatre

“We want the theatre to feel warm, welcoming and somewhere people really want to visit or perform.”

“Just wait to see what we’re doing for Christmas… it’s going to be very special!”

Inspired by a passion for plants

Connect with nature throughout the seasons with delicately blended, lovingly hand-poured luxury candles. Inspired by natural botanical fragrances to bring the garden into your home.

Fragrances

the season to support small businesses

—

You don’t have to look far to find the perfect gift or event this Christmas, just look locally!

Here’s just a taste on what’s on offer in and around the Court this festive season. Shopping, staying and spending locally can make the world of difference to the small and local businesses who work so hard for us all, all year round.

Help us to champion local this Christmas!

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FESTIVE EVENTS —

13 November – 9 January

Hampton Court Palace Ice Rink hamptoncourtpalaceicerink.co.uk

25 November

Teddington Christmas Lights Up teddingtontogether.org

25 November Wreath Making Workshop mitrehamptoncourt.com

27 November – 2 January

Christmas Carriage Rides, Bushy Park seetickets.com/tour/christmas-bushypark-rides @operationcentaur

27 November

Thames Ditton Light Switch On

2 December, 5 – 7pm Magical Molesey, Walton Road lovemolesey.org

3 – 5 December

Hampton Court Palace Festive Fayre hrp.org.uk

4 December, 11am – 3pm

The Court Circular Christmas Market

Vine Hall, East Molesey Instagram @hcourtcircular

6 December

Eco-friendly Christmas Gift Making Workshop riverhousebarn.co.uk

7 December, 7.30-9.30pm Christmas Embroidery Workshop @vicky_oleary_textiles

9 December, 4 – 8pm Bridge Road Winter Wander East Molesey

18 December Walton Vegan Market heartshopping.co.uk

19 December Thames Ditton Farmers Christmas Market Instagram @thamesdittonfarmersmarket

20 December

Rose Christmas Snowball rosetheatre.org

‘Tis

EAT, DRINK & BE MERRY —

Cakes, bakes and special Christmas editions from the wonderful A.K Artisan. Last postal date is 17 December but delivering in the local area right up until 23 December. akartisan.co.uk

Instagram @ak.artisan

Fruit and vegetable boxes, ready for collection or delivered to your doorstep. hamptoncourtfruits.com

Instagram @hamptoncourtfruits

Order deadline: 23 December

PERFECT PAMPERING —

Vouchers for beauty treatments including facials, massages, manicures, pedicures and lashes –all delivered in a beautiful cosy garden cabin. thegardenroommolesey.co.uk

Instagram @thegardenroom_molesey

Order Deadline: 23 December

Vouchers available for foot, face, aromatherapy or hot stone reflexology. deborahmorrisreflexology.co.uk

Instagram @deborahmorrisreflexology

Order deadline: 23 December

SMALL & SPECIAL —

Handmade jewellery designed to be treasured, made locally by Ravetta Designs Jewellery. Delivering locally up until 23 December. ravettadesigns.co.uk

Instagram @ravettadesigns

Order deadline: 20 December

Bespoke calligraphy - Christmas cards, gift tags, place names and quotes, all handwritten in Thames Ditton. calligraphybysian.etsy.com

Instagram @calligraphybysian

Order deadline: 20 December

Christmas candles and gift boxes delivered to East & West Molesey until 23 December. Last postal date 20 December for gifts outside of the area. constantcandle.co.uk

Instagram @constantcandleco

Support the brand-new bookshop on the block by buying local. Denny’s will open a pop up in Thames Ditton as well as increasing their range at Mada Deli in East Molesey.

Instagram @dennysbookstore

FESTIVE FLOWER POWER —

Stunning Christmas wreaths and table centres created by Maria from My Table Floral Design my-table.co.uk

Instagram @my-table-floral-design

Order deadline: 11 December

ART WITH HEART —

Vibrant, provocative art from Rosalyn Cropper and don’t miss her limited-edition Christmas cards! rosalyncropper.com

Instagram @rosalyncropper

Order deadline: 20 December

Buy vouchers or book printmaking art workshops with No5 Workshops, delivered in a large light-filled studio in East Molesey. no5workshops.com

Instagram @no5workshops

MERRY MOVEMENT —

Give the gift of an Introduction to Nordic Walking! Special wonder walks take place across Kingston, Epsom and different locations across Surrey. movenordic.co.uk

Instagram @move.nordic

No last order date

Get on board this Christmas! Vouchers for paddleboarding, SUP Yoga or Yoga. goodlifepaddle.com

Instagram @goodlifepaddleco

Order deadline: 24 December

Follow @hcourtcircular on Instagram for more festive ideas and opportunities.

Gift that Keeps on Giving… the

Words | Orin Carlin

It’s that time of year again. Christmas is fast approaching which means that many of us are on the hunt for the perfect gift. If you’re keen to avoid a certain hysteria induced specifically by a weekend trip to the department store in the lead up to 25 December, maybe you ought to reconsider your options?

But what exactly are your options? Shopping for clothing gifts online, at least in my own experience, can end in disaster. It’s virtually impossible to get a feel for exactly what it is that you’re spending your hard-earned cash on. More often than not, the end result is disappointing: too baggy, too tight, too itchy, too bright or too flammable (and if your recipient is particularly unlucky, it’s all of the above).

This is where the quintessentially British charity shop comes in. The thought of giving (or receiving) a second hand gift is controversial for some. The charity shop has unfairly become synonymous with moth-eaten wool jumpers and the occasional woodland creature figurine. However, a shift in the landscape has meant that more of us are foraying into the world of sustainable fashion. Simply put, there are some brilliant charitable organisations that are working hard to teach us how we can change our consumer habits – and we should to pay attention.

Mary’s Living and Giving shop for Save the Children in Teddington are a great example of a local charity shop that is getting it right. I fear I may have tasked shop manager Melinda McHugh and volunteer Hannah Ryland-Brown with a tall order when I pop by on a sunny September afternoon in search of ‘the ultimate Christmas party outfit’, but they are unfazed by the challenge. The pair spring into action, carefully compiling a covetable selection of sequinned, sparkly and shimmery garments that could all equally fit the bill.

It is this ‘above and beyond’ attitude to customer service that has made the shop into something of a local icon. “It’s part of the Teddington experience because it’s been part of the community for ten years now,” says Melinda. “We get people coming in of all ages, it’s just a very welcoming environment for everyone.”

This shop, among several others, was set up by retail expert Mary Portas with the aim of enabling children in and around the UK to fulfil their potential. In 2020, Save the Children supported an impressive 44.9 million young people. Voting with our wallets is a great way of making a positive contribution to the organisations that we care about and allowing them to continue working hard within the wider community.

The charitable cause behind Mary’s Living and Giving offers one explanation as to why the Teddington branch is so adored by its loyal customers, but Hannah presents a convincing alternative. “The options that you get when you shop second hand can be unique, you might find something that nobody else has got,” she says. “I’ve only been volunteering here since April and I don’t think that I’ve bought anything from anywhere else since! It is very addictive.”

And what better way to put Hannah’s words to the test than to indulge in a festive shopping challenge? It seems only right to scope out some dazzling Christmas party gear to honour all the killer outfits that never saw the light of day this year, thanks

The Court Circular explores why Mary’s Living and Giving Shop, Teddington’s much-loved fashion hotspot, could be the answer to your Christmas shopping dilemmas…

to our lack of social interaction. For my first look I choose a white long-sleeved sequinned top with a navy and silver beaded miniskirt, black patent boots (expertly suggested by Melinda) and a silver studded clutch. Unbelievably, the Prada boots are very comfortable – this could be a great look if you’re planning on hitting the dance floor. My next outfit consists of an embellished silver slip dress with a beaded necklace and glittery Mary Janes to match (which felt very roaring twenties!) complete with a classic black leather clutch. Finally, a gold lurex jumpsuit, layered bronze necklace and burgundy snake-inspired ankle boots.

I’m bowled over by the selection and by the fact that the team are passionate about delivering quality service alongside quality garments. Retaining a bit of Christmas spirit all year round seems to be their secret ingredient. “I’ve been volunteering here for nearly five and a half years,” says Melinda proudly. “I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it. It’s just one of those things that really gets to you.”

How you can help…

Do you have any hidden gems that are lurking away in the depths of your wardrobe? The Teddington branch is always seeking donations to add to its collection of pre-loved clothes, shoes, accessories, books and children’s toys.

If you’re interested in joining the second hand party, Mary’s Living and Giving is always looking for new volunteers. The Teddington team play to people’s strengths, with some volunteers working behind the scenes, steaming, sewing and sorting, while others take on customer-facing roles.

Mary’s Living & Giving Shop for Save the Children

93 High St, Teddington TW11 8HG

Instagram @maryslivingandgivingteddington

“A shift in the landscape has meant that more of us are foraying into the world of sustainable fashion.”

OUR CIRCLE OF FRIENDS…

SMALL & BEAUTIFUL

ARE YOU FLEUR REAL?

Are You Fleur Real? brings a brilliant burst of colour and elegance to it’s petite shop front on Walton Road. Whether you’re looking for a phenomenal faux floral wreath, show-stopper arrangement or single stems to create your own masterpiece, Are You Fleur Real? is the perfect place to go.

81a Walton Road, East Molesey, KT8 0DP 0203 375 4328

areyoufleurreal.com

Instagram @fleurrealuk

JOULBERRY

This beautiful jewellery boutique in Bridge Road is one of our absolute favourites. You’ll find an incredible range of elegant pieces inside as well as the opportunity to commission something very special and unique for that important person, or moment, in your life. Customer service is nothing short of outstanding.

28 Bridge Road, East Molesey, Surrey KT8 9HA 020 8979 5774

joulberry.com

Instagram @joulberry

THE BOOK SHOP

Beautiful in stock and intent. This wonderful shop in Hampton has been selling second hand books to support local charities for over four decades. Beneficiaries include The Hygiene Bank, Baby Basics, Riding for the Disabled Association and The Extra Mile. It’s well worth making a trip to this treasure trove of a book shop.

52 Ashley Rd, Hampton TW12 2HU hamptonbookshop.com

Instagram @thebookshophampton

ARTY ELF

New – and very welcome – to the area, Arty Elf is a tiny shop that makes a big impact when it comes to searching for cards, canvases, prints and gifts including lavender pillows, comforting candles and soothing bath soaks. There’s something for everyone.

Old Cobblers Shop

144a Bridge Road, East Molesey KT8 9HW artyelf.com

Instagram @artyelf1

Illustrations by Lisa Tolley www.lisatolley.co.uk

‘This wonderful shop in Hampton has been selling second hand books to support local charities for over four decades!’

one voucher per client expires 31/12/2021