LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
PROPERTY NEWS
OCTOBER 2020
CREATING YOUR HOME OFFICE WITH GROWING NUMBERS OF PEOPLE WORKING FROM HOME, IT’S IMPORTANT TO GET THE ENVIRONMENT JUST RIGHT HALF-TERM DAYS OUT A LOOK AT FAMILY DAYS OUT THIS AUTUMN
STYLISH WALLPAPER IDEAS THE HOTTEST HOME DECOR TRENDS THIS YEAR
SPORTING EVENTS EXPLOSIVE SPORTS ACTION THIS MONTH
HALLOWEEN RECIPES ENJOY THESE GHOULISHLY GREAT, SPOOKY TREATS
LIFESTYLE
COVER STORY
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Creating your home office It is important to create the right home-working environment for you
PROPERTY
8
Stylish wallpaper ideas The hottest home decor trends this year
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Our latest instructions Take a look at a selection of our latest properties on the market
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About us Get to know our team a little better and see why we are your agent of choice
TRAVEL
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Spooky places to visit this year Our guide to 5 of the spookiest locations in and around the UK
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How to carve a pumpkin Here are some hints and tips to help you out
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Half-term days out We take a look at some of the family days out available
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Halloween party at home A great guide to make it a special celebration at home
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Power women at the box office These leading ladies are set to take over the box office
SPORT
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October Sporting Events Let’s have a look at some of the biggest events this month
FOOD
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Halloween recipes A selection of recipes to ensure your spooky night goes well
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TOP
CONTENTS
SPOOKY PLACES TO VISIT IN THE UK THIS YEAR
It’s that time of year where we are all looking for a good scare and where better to start than some of the most terrifying places around the UK…
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n the build-up to Halloween, some of us get comfy on the sofa with a good horror film, while others are more adventurous. If you are the thrillseeker type, check out our guide to 5 of the spookiest locations in and around the UK.
BUCKLAND ABBEY, DEVON
WELCOME TO THE OCTOBER ISSUE!
S
ummer seems a distant memory already! We have been blessed with warm weather throughout which has been a great benefit in these strange times.
experienced before we have helped create a guide to throwing the perfect Halloween party at home including how to carve a pumpkin, some great games and some spooky recipes too.
With the property market thriving, if you’re thinking about moving but haven’t started the process, we have put safety guidelines in place to ensure your safety. And with our expert local knowledge, we have all the tools you need to get you moving – including a FREE personalised website for you to share on social media.
How is it nearly half-term? Never fear though, we have a selection of great half-term, family days out as well as a guide to the top 5 spooky places to visit in the UK. And finally, we take a look at the Power-Women taking over at the box office this month.
This month’s issue provides you with a wide range of articles including the most stylish wallpaper trends for 2021, how to create the perfect home office and the biggest sporting events this month. It’s Halloween month, and knowing it’ll be a Halloween like we’ve never
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PROPERTY NEWS
Please note, we are doing our best to be accurate, but in these strange times, all the dates and availability at attractions may change, however, were correct at the time of writing.
We’ll start with a celebrity ghost. We all learned about Sir Francis Drake in school. In life, he was a national hero, a sea captain, naval officer and explorer who was famed for his circumnavigation of the world in a single expedition from 1577 to 1580. Buckland Abbey was sold to Sir Francis Drake in 1580 after the expedition and he made it his home. However, many locals feared the intrepid, and recently Knighted explorer, believing he had supernatural powers. Some even said he had made a pact with the Devil which was how he had defeated the Spanish Armada. In death, his ghost is now believed to haunt Buckland Abbey and ride across Dartmoor in a black coach driven by headless horses led by goblins and pursued by barking dogs. Buckland Abbey is run by the National Trust and you can visit it all year round.
Till next time… Jonathan Wheatley Editor
Spooky fact: It has been suggested that the ghost story even inspired Sir Arthur Conan Doyle to write The Hound of the Baskervilles.
CROFT CASTLE, WEST MIDLANDS
TREASURER’S HOUSE,YORK
The Croft family, where the castle got its name, are descendants of the famous Welshman, who is believed to haunt the castle as a seven-foot figure clad in a leather jerkin. Members of staff at the castle have also reported the cries of a wailing baby and a spectral figure wearing a grey doublet. In one of the windows, a woman has been seen wearing a crinoline (a stiff petticoat) who is believed to be a member of the Croft family.
An 18-year old engineer, who later became a policeman, named Henry Martindale has the best-known account of the spooky goings-on in the house. One day, when Martindale was installing a boiler in the cellars, he heard the sound of a trumpet and saw a soldier’s helmet emerge from the wall he was working. As he watched, around 20 further spectral soldiers emerged armed with lances, short swords and round shields.
Croft Castle is also run by the National Trust and you can visit all year round.
Treasurer’s House is also run by the National Trust and you can visit all year round.
Croft Castle is said to be ‘The most haunted house in the Midlands,’ and amongst the seven spectres, it also has a famous resident, Welsh freedom fighter, Owain Glyndwr. Glyndwr was a Welsh leader born in 1359 who instigated a fierce war of independence against the English and was the last native Welshman to hold the title Prince of Wales.
Spooky fact: Members of staff have reported hearing their names being called when no one is around.
PLUCKLEY, KENT
Pluckley in Kent is in the Guinness Book of Records as the ‘Most haunted village in Britain.’ This quaint village is reputed to have between 12-14 ghosts including the spectre of a highwayman in a tree, the ghost of a gipsy woman who drowned in a nearby stream, a phantom coach and horse, the old miller on Mill Hill, the hanging body of a schoolmaster, a colonel, a man smothered in clay, the Lady of Rose Court, the White Lady and the Red Lady. One of the most famous haunted spots is the pub, The Blacksmith’s Arms, which was previously called The Spectre’s Arms and the Ghost’s Arms because of the number of hauntings and strange occurences. The pub is not haunted by just one, but three ghosts: A Tudor maid, a coachman and a Cavalier. Pluckley, Kent, is a village like any other with two pubs, however, to get the full spooky experience you can book a ghost walk with London Walking Tours
Spooky fact: Nearby, the aptly named Screaming Woods, is a real tourist trap with brave tourists choosing to camp overnight.
Treasurer’s House, nestled in the centre of York, has over 2000-years of history running through its veins. Renovated by Frank Green, a wealthy industrialist and passionate collector, Treasure’s House was used to showcase his collections including antique furniture, art and textiles.
Spooky fact: It was revealed that 18-inches below the current cellar floor, archaeologists revealed evidence of an ancient Roman road.
CANNOCK CHASE FOREST, STAFFORDSHIRE
Cannock Chase forest is a natural beauty spot in Staffordshire, however, it also has a horrid history including murder and chilling sightings of a spectre known locally as ‘The Black Eyed Child.’ First spotted over 30-years ago, the sightings have restarted over the past decade. Recent descriptions of the spectre are eerily similar to those in the 80s, where a child, with coal-black pits for eye sockets, haunts the woods. It is a hot-spot for paranormal investigators who have also heard stories around the world regarding other children with the same eerie eyes, however, only in Cannock Chase do the sightings consistently happen during the daytime. Often the sightings will happen after hearing screams. The child will appear with her hands over her eyes, before revealing her ghastly form. Cannock Chase Forest is run by Forestry England and boasts a children’s play area, orienteering trails and Go Ape.
Spooky fact: During the 1960s three young girls were murdered in what became known as ‘The Cannock Chase Murders.’
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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CREATING THE PERFECT
HOME OFFICE SPACE With growing numbers of people regularly working from home, it’s important to get the environment just right
CHOOSE THE RIGHT SPACE
With an ever-growing number of Brits now working from home each week, especially those whom after Covid-19 may not be going back to the office, it is important to create the right working environment. With the benefits from homeworking ranging from saving money on the commute to being in for deliveries and the school run, it is easy to see why so many people have jumped at the chance. But what should you consider when converting a room into a home office?
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Choosing the right space is the first important decision to make. It’s not just about fitting into any space; you will, after all, be spending most of your working day in there! If you’re able, choose a room that has some natural light coming in and that will be big enough to accommodate a desk, chair and storage – depending on your needs, of course. Once in, decide the best layout. For some, a view into the garden is nice, for others, however, it can be a distraction. It is worthwhile trying out a few different layouts before settling on one.
CREATE THE PERFECT ENVIRONMENT
As you will be spending a good deal of time working in your chosen room, it’s vital that you create the perfect environment so that your productivity isn’t impacted. An uncomfortable and incorrectly positioned chair can lead to repeated shuffling to get comfortable, leading to distraction and a lack of desire to lock yourself away in your office and get the job done. Likewise, try to remove other distractions such as TVs. The same ethos applies to your desk. Work out how much space you need. Is it just a laptop you need the space for, or will you be using it to organise paperwork? Perhaps you need two screens? Whatever your needs, ensure you have a desk that is up for the job. When it comes to decorating your room, go for it. A simple, plain room may look like your office back at work, but now you are at home you can install some of your own personality into it. Why not get some printed wallpaper to give the impression of a library or go for your favourite calming colour.
KIT IT OUT
OK, so you know what you need, now it’s time to kit out your office. With internet shopping, you no longer need to rely on a trip to Ikea to get the office furniture you need. It’s always a good starting point but why not try the likes of www.wayfair.co.uk, www.officefurnitureonline.co.uk or www. ryman.co.uk to name but a few. Of course, you can always stay local with second-hand furniture shops or even Facebook Marketplace for everything you need. Again, work out what you need before you buy so you don’t end up buying more than you need. Another handy tip is to invest in some shelves. These are great space savers and also create a really nice,
stylish backdrop for Zoom and Skype meetings when full of books.
STORAGE DELIGHTS
Keep it tidy and keep it simple! There are plenty of storage solutions out there for your home office space. And if floor space is limited, utilise wall space instead with bookcases or wall storage. Buying a desk with storage drawers and cupboards can also be highly beneficial. Also, try to keep your office stuff in your new office. You don’t want to be rushing all over the house looking for stationery equipment or paperwork in the middle of a busy task you need to concentrate on. Folders, units, shelves and drawers are a necessity now that you are working from home to keep organised.
GET CONNECTED If your broadband speed isn’t up to scratch it can be frustrating. Employers are likely to call you back into the office if your speed can’t handle the work you need to do. Alternatively, if you use Skype for business, a poor broadband speed could seriously hinder any meetings you have planned.
As you will be spending a good deal of time working in your chosen room, it’s vital that you create the perfect environment so that your productivity isn’t impacted.
Slow broadband speed is a big turn off. Luckily rural countryside areas are finally catching up with inner-city speeds. Comparison websites such as Uswitch and Compare the Market will show you the best deals and estimated speeds in your area in minutes. Not only do you need a fast broadband speed, but you also want one that is consistently good from morning to evening. So check reviews on websites in regards to reliability and not just speed.
LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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HOW TO CARVE
A PUMPKIN
THIS HALLOWEEN
With Halloween coming up, there is nothing that symbolizes this holiday better than a carved pumpkin…
W
hether you want to create a simple jack-o-lantern or something a little more artistic, here are some hints and tips that will help you out. As anyone who has ever carved a pumpkin already knows, it can be a messy job and tougher than first expected.
USE THE RIGHT PUMPKIN
When picking a pumpkin make sure you get to the shops early and pick one that is fresh, unbruised and has both a sturdy stem and a flat bottom. You’ll want the flat bottom, especially so that it stays stable when carving and doesn’t roll when you have finished and put it on show.
CUT FROM THE BOTTOM
Yes, you read that right, when making your first cut, choose to create the lid at the bottom of the pumpkin. This will help stop your pumpkin from caving in at the sides and you will also avoid the fiddliness of putting the lid back on after it has been cut.
SCOOP OUT THE PULP AND THIN THE WALLS
Ensure when you are inside the pumpkin that you scoop out all the pulp and seeds. You can get a special
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PROPERTY NEWS
‘pumpkin’ claw for this job, alternatively, a great tool most people have at home already for this job is an ice cream scoop. When scooping out also thin down the inner wall of the ‘face’ area so it will be easier to cut.
When making your first cut, choose to create the lid at the bottom of the pumpkin
SKETCH OUT YOUR DESIGN
On a piece of A-4 paper, sketch out your spooky design. Ideally do this to the size of the pumpkin, covering the whole piece of paper so when the time comes you can tape the sketch onto the ‘face’ of the pumpkin. You will then be able to use this as a guide when it comes to actually cutting out the pumpkin.
MAKE ROUGH CUTS FIRST
Holding the pumpkin in your lap for stability, start by making the largest,
OTHER HINTS AND TIPS Use the scraps of the pumpkin to make a tongue, hair accessories etc, for the pumpkin. Spread petroleum jelly on the cut edges to seal in moisture and keep your jack-o-lantern fresh. Create a chimney. When you first light a candle inside, let it burn for a few minutes and then check where it has blackened. Then simply create a small hole in that area to act as a chimney.
simplest rough cuts using a serrated kitchen knife. By getting the bigger pieces out of the way, you can then go back and neaten up the edges and details later using a small saw or sharp non-serrated knife.
AUTUMN HALF-TERM DAYS OUT With half-term already approaching, we thought we’d take a look at some of the awesome family days out available this year
Treat the little-ones this half term, especially after starting school and the craziest of the past 6-months, with a day out at Legoland, Windsor. Legoland is the ultimate experience for kids of all ages, and let’s face it, what child doesn’t love Lego!
The York Dungeon is a journey through 2000 years of York’s darkest history, bringing together iconic characters, immersive sets and thrilling special-effects in a unique actor-led experience. While there you will meet characters such as the Black Jester, Jorvik and Guy Fawkes, and visit locations such as the Torture Chamber and the Courtroom.
The theme park offers day passes and annual passes as well as mini-staycations and short breaks which are great for half term and getting away. They have also introduced new attractions such as the World’s First DUPLO Coaster, DUPLO Playtown, The Frog Prince at the DUPLO Valley Theatre alongside favourites like LEGO NINJAGO The Ride, Miniland, Viking River Splash and expect there to be spooky goings-on throughout the park in October.
Aimed at older children, the York Dungeon is a great and informative day out, while educational at the same time (just don’t tell the kids) and fits in nicely with Halloween coming up. In all, there are 9 live actor shows, specially designed sets and gripping storytelling from a professional cast. Tickets need to be booked online and cost £11.95 for children (aged 5-15 years) and £15.10 for adults. The Dungeons also offer similar attractions in London, Edinburgh and Blackpool.
incredible underwater world as part of their mission to inspire a love for the ocean and its creatures.
There are a dozen Sealife centres in and around the UK and they are some of the most beloved and well-visited attractions in the UK. Each year, they welcome over 20 million explorers into their
Each centre offers expert daily talks, self-guided tours and workshops and multimedia experiences like Shark Mission and Art Aquarium alongside all your favourite sea creatures including sharks, seahorses, penguins, turtles, clownfish, jellyfish, rockpool creatures and rays. You will need to book online for tickets and they offer general admission, adult and child tickets, annual passes and the Merlin Annual Pass which gets you into other great attractions too.
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STYLISH WALLPAPER IDEAS AND TRENDS
Looking at decorating a living room, home office or bedroom this year? Let’s take a look at some of the hottest trends!
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tylish and trendy wallpapers have never been more popular. A few years ago, the trend was for neutral shades of paint etc, however, times have changed and, as such, so has interior design, with modern design now leaning towards expressions of individuality. And there is no better way to show your individuality than with printed wallpaper.
ABSTRACT WALLPAPER PATTERNS In a digital world, it is no surprise to see geometric, abstract patterns coming to the forefront of interior design. They offer a futuristic, yet stylish dĂŠcor for home offices and bedrooms. Check out this design from www.iwantwallpaper. co.uk by Debona.
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PROPERTY NEWS
ORIGINAL PRINTS With day-to-day life more stressful than ever, designers are advising not to bring the stress home with you. Fill your home, especially your living room, with original wallpaper prints offering custom designs, unexpected colours and unusual textures. Here’s one we think you’ll love from www. contrado.co.uk
ECO-FRIENDLY MATERIAL We’re all trying to do our bit for the environment, so why not try an eco-friendly wallpaper. Naturalism works really well with eco wallpapers and they work perfectly in rooms which receive ample sunlight. www.farrow-ball.com offer some great, naturalist, ecofriendly wallpapers with their handcrafted ‘greener’ options.
LUXURY WALLPAPER Luxury, designer wallpaper is a sure-fire way to add some flair to your home. The wallpaper will immediately turn any room into a sophisticated one. Again, geometric patterns are in favour for the future with lots of golds and dark greens. Head over to www.grahambrown.com to find a huge selection of some of the most stylish luxury wallpaper available anywhere.
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HALLOWEEN PARTY AT HOME H
Halloween will, like most of 2020, be a different experience this year, however, we have a great guide to make it special at home‌
alloween has always been about Trick-or-Treat, pumpkins and decorating your house, however, this year, with Trick-or-Treating all but off the schedule, we thought we would look at the ways to have a great Halloween party at home with your immediate family.
DECORATIONS First things first, you will need to get a whole lot of decorations. Budget shops such as Poundstretcher and B&M are great places to pick up one-off decorations for your house. To make it a family affair, why not make DIY decorations. This is a great way to keep children entertained and build excitement for Halloween this year. Glow in the dark paint and stickers are great to stick onto black paper and then cut off to make dangling decorations such as skeletons, ghosts and witches which look great hanging from doors, in windows and in the centre of the room.
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PROPERTY NEWS
Start putting the decorations up early to create a build-up to the event itself which will help get the kids excited and forget about the potential lack of Trick-or-Treating this year‌
TRICK-OR-TREATING With Trick-or-Treating probably off the menu this year due to social-distancing, why not create an Easter-style egg hunt around your home with a spooky candy hunt? You can set up clues that lead around the house with spooky goings-on around the home, almost like Scooby-Doo. Kids will love finding sweets and treats amidst all the spooky decorations.
FAMILY PARTY GAMES After the Trick-or-Treat hunt, why not have some fun and games as a family, while enjoying those sweet treats.
BEAN BAG TOSS This game is really simple and utilises carved pumpkins and Trick-or-Treat buckets. Each player has three shots to get their bean bags into either the buckets or carved pumpkins for a certain amount of points. And even better, once you have finished, you can add a tealight and put the pumpkin on show!
EYEBALL PONG Similar to beer pong for adults, paint spooky eyes on table tennis balls and take it in turns to bounce the eyeballs on a table and into a cup. Have a prize for the most balls in a cup each turn – obviously not beer if you’re playing with the kids!
GHOST AND PUMPKIN BOWLING Dependant on whether a new toilet roll shortage has started again, paint ghoulish faces onto 10 toilet rolls and stack them in a pyramid. Then, using a pumpkin with a spooky face painted on and with the stalk cut off, see how many toilet rolls you can knock over each go.
PARTY TIME Now is the time for some classic fun and games. Turn the family-friendly, spooky music loud and dance around the house. You can incorporate musical statues at any time, stopping the music and watching who freezes like a ghost! See who can dance like a zombie or a mummy the best and let the kids go crazy working off the sweets in their systems.
CHILLOUT TIME After all that fun and excitement, now is the time to chill. There are a huge number of familyfriendly spooky films on Sky, Netflix and Amazon Prime. Some of the classics include Casper the Friendly Ghost, The Haunted Mansion and The Witches. Perfect for a family cuddle on the sofa under a blanket whilst eating all those sweet treats, including some of the fabulous recipes on pages 14&15. It may not be the same as going out in the local community and Trick-or-Treating with friends, however, with the current, ongoing situation, we hope some of these ideas will help you celebrate Halloween and create a fun evening for the kids this year!
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OCTOBER SPORTING EVENTS With the emergence of Autumn and a busy sports calendar now reopen, let’s have a look at some of the biggest events this month…
LONDON MARATHON
NATIONS LEAGUE
Virgin Money, who host the event, has set up a virtual event this year taking place on the same day. General entries are now closed, however, you can still enter by running for a charity. Entrants will have 23 hours 59 minutes and 59 seconds to complete the 26.2 miles by walking, jogging or running.
England were drawn against Belgium, Denmark and Iceland who they will play both home and away, with the four group winners qualifying for the UEFA Nations League Finals which feature semi-finals, a third-place match and the final. At the end, the ten group winners advance directly to the World Cup finals for 2022.
The 2020 London Marathon will be a marathon like no other due to Covid-19. This year, only elite athletes will run the 26.2-mile course through the capital. The course will be spectator free and follow a different course from the usual one. However, non-elite athletes will still have a chance to compete in the 40th race.
MARATHON & VIRTUAL EVENT
The Nations League kicks off again this month. It is the second edition of UEFA’s newest national-team competition. 55 teams have been split into four leagues according to their position in the 20/21 UEFA Nations League Access List and the teams were then split again into four pots in each league.
FIXTURES
Virgin Money London Marathon 4th October 2020.
England V Belgium 11th October 2020 @ 17:00
CORRECT AT TIME OF GOING TO PRINT
England V Denmark 14th October 2020 @ 19:45
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PROPERTY NEWS
FORMULA 1
The Formula 1 season is in full swing and is showing no let-down in October, with three races over the month. As it stands, Lewis Hamilton is top of the driver standings closely followed by Valtteri Bottas and Max Verstappen, while Mercedes are top of the Team Standing ahead of rivals Red Bull. First up this month is the Eifel Grand Prix on the 9th to the 11th October. The race will be held at the Nürburgring this year. After this, we have the Portugal Grand Prix which will be held on the 23rd to the 25th October at Portimao. Before finishing with the Italian Grand Prix on the 31st October till the 1st November in Imola.
RACE LIST Eifel Grand Prix. 11th October 2020. Nürburgring. Portugal Grand Prix. 25th October 2020. Portimao. Italian Grand Prix. 1st November 2020. Imola.
POWER WOMEN AT THE BOX OFFICE October is the month where some of the most powerful women in the world are taking over at the Box Office.
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t’s been a strange year, especially for cinema where most movies stopped production during the Covid-19 pandemic. With cinemas now open, studios are finally ready to unleash their big guns. And there are none bigger than the following leading ladies.
WONDER WOMAN 1984
First up is the long-awaited Wonder Woman sequel, Wonder Woman 1984. Patty Jenkin’s sequel has been delayed due to Covid-19 more times than anyone cares to remember, but as of writing, it is due to be released this month. Wonder Woman 1984 will pick up in the 1980s, where she will be united with Chris Pine’s Steve Trevor from the first film. When released it will be the second DC film of the year after February’s other girl-power blockbuster Birds of Prey
starring Margot Robbie. This time, Diana Prince, aka, Wonder Woman will be facing off against Pedro Pascal, from Game of Thrones fame, as Max Lord, and Kristen Wiig, from Bridesmaids, as Cheetah. Gal Gadot is back as Woman Woman after her previous outings in the first Wonder Woman, Justice League and Batman V Superman. Warner Bros is hoping the sequel will do similar business as the original which took $822 million worldwide in 2017.
BLACK WIDOW
Next up is Marvel’s Black Widow. Scarlett Johansson has played the character since she was first introduced in Iron Man 2 way back in 2010. Since then she has appeared in 8 further MCU movies, where we have had clues to her background, but nothing
concrete. Black Widow promises to change that with an in-depth look into Natasha Romanoff’s background. For the movie, we are going back in time, for obvious reasons, (spoiler alert) to the aftermath of Captain America: Civil War from 2016. New characters are going to be introduced including David Harbour, Stranger Things, Rachel Weisz, The Mummy, and Florence Pugh, Little Women. Originally due to be released in May, the official release date now is the 28th of October. The bad guy has already been announced as Taskmaster, a character more famous from the comics as he has yet to be seen on the big screen. He can mimic any physical movement he sees, except anything supernatural. But who is the actor behind the mask? That is a question that is still yet to be answered.
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Make the most of your Halloween party this year with these ghoulishly great, spooky recipes.
SPOOKY HALLOWEEN RECIPES
N
o Halloween party is complete without a scary selection of creepy cupcakes, candy apples and devilish dinners. Here we have put together the best selection of recipes to ensure your spooky night goes off without a hitch.
70g butter 50g peanut butter 150g golden caster sugar 1 medium egg 1tsp vanilla extract 180g plain flour ½ tsp bicarbonate of soda 20 peanut butter cups, Maltesers or Rolos 100g milk chocolate Icing sugar 8 red apples 400g caster sugar 1tsp lemon juice 4tbsp golden syrup 8 sticks, chopsticks and lolly sticks
SPIDER BISCUITS Preheat oven to 180c/160c fan and line two baking sheets with parchment. Cream the butter, peanut butter and sugar together until fluffy, then beat in the egg and vanilla. Once combined, stir in the flour, bicarb and ¼ tsp salt. Scoop 20 tbsps of the mixture onto the trays leaving enough space between each. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until firm at the edges but soft in the middle. Leave to cool before topping each biscuit with a peanut butter cup, Malteser or Rolo. Melt the milk chocolate before scraping into a piping bag and then add the legs onto each spider before finally adding icing eyes.
CANDY APPLES Remove the stalks from the apples and put them in a heatproof bowl. Pour over boiling water and cover and leave for 3-4 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and pat dry. Push the sharpest end of each stick into the stalk-end of each apple. Tip the sugar into a large saucepan, add the lemon juice and 100ml water. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sugar has dissolved. Add the golden syrup and simmer again. Test the toffee by dropping a small amount into cold water, if it doesn’t harden immediately and become brittle when removed, it’s not ready yet. Dip each apple into the toffee. Lift out and allow any excess to drip off before placing on baking parchment to set.
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PROPERTY NEWS
135g pack of lime jelly 700ml apple juice 300ml lemonade 435g can lychees in syrup 10 cocktail cherries 10 raisins
EYEBALL COCKTAIL Make the jelly following the pack instructions and chill until set. Combine the apple juice with the lemonade in a large jug and chill. Drain the lychees and poke a hole in each cherry with one of the cocktail sticks. Put the cherry inside the lychee, then push the raisin into the cherry. These are your eyes. Press each one onto the end of a cocktail stick and set aside. When the jelly has set, use a whisk to break it into small chunks. Spoon the cocktail into glasses and tup up with the apple and lemonade mix. Put an eyeball into each glass before serving.
TO DECORATE:
HAUNTED GRAVEYARD CAKE
1 egg white 50g icing sugar 200ml single cream 200g dark chocolate 125g rich tea finger biscuits 100g double chocolate cookies 25g white chocolate silver balls to decorate
Preheat the oven to 110c/90c fan. Whip the egg whites in a bowl until stiff
FOR THE CAKE:
Turn the oven up to 180c/160c fan. Tip the cocoa powder, self-raising flour
85g cocoa powder 200g self-raising flour 375g light brown muscovado sugar 4 eggs 200ml milk 175ml vegetable oil
peaks form. Whisk in the sugar a tbsp at a time and keep whisking until the mixture is thick and resembles shaving foam. Spoon the mixture into a large freezer bag and cut a 1.5cm hole in one of the corners. Cover a baking sheet with some baking parchment and carefully squeeze a small circle of whipped egg white out of the bag, pulling upwards as you do to make a ghost shape. Repeat until you run out of the mixture. Bake for 1 ½ hours until crisp. and sugar into a large bowl, breaking up any sugar clumps. Mix together the eggs, milk and oil in a bowl then pour over the dry ingredients and stir evenly until smooth. Grease and line a deep baking dish with parchment and then pour the mixture in and bake for 30 minutes. Leave to cool and turn out onto a serving plate. Heat cream in a saucepan until just boiling. Place the dark chocolate in a large bowl and pour over the hot cream. Stir until melted, then use a clean brush to paint a layer over 7 rich tea finger biscuits, then set aside to cool. Pour the remaining chocolate over the cake and smooth over with a knife. Whizz or bash the chocolate cookies until small crumbs form and then sprinkle over the cake. Place the white chocolate in a bowl over a pan of simmering water. Once melted, spoon into a freezer bag and wait for 10 minutes until it is no longer runny. Put a tiny hole in the corner of the bag and pipe two blobs onto each ghost and place a silver ball onto each to make eyes. Write on the gravestones, leave to set and then push the biscuit gravestones into the cake.
All recipes are from the www.bbcgoodfood.com website Images for illustrative purposes only
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Francis Road, Basingstoke
£625,000
Set on a fully walled plot, boasting all the bells and whistles, with no expense spared on the finishes! Flexible accommodation, currently set up as 4 beds, 3 baths (1 x en-suite) Large open plan living room with combined dining & spacious kitchen, with centre island. Bi-folding doors open to the patio/ entertainment area and fully enclosed manicured garden. On approach, this property offers driveway parking for multiple cars plus the benefit of a garage. The entrance hall to this split level beauty is complimented by, an extra large work from home office and master bedroom with French doors to the Juliette balcony, there is a walk-through bathroom and a separate his & her’s dressing room. Upstairs consists of 2 large double bedrooms, one with en-suite and walk-in dressing area, a single bedroom and large modern family bathroom.
Ashfield, Chineham £395,000
LODDON PROPERTIES offer this 4 bedroom family home comprising entrance hall, downstairs cloakroom and light and generous living room with a feature bay window. Sliding glass doors lead to the separate study. Fully fitted kitchen/diner which boasts fully integrated NEFF appliances and pantry. The first floor comprises of are three bedrooms all with built in wardrobes or storage space, and a bright family bathroom containing ‘P’ shaped bath with shower over. The spectacle of this floor is the generous master bedroom which comes with multiple built in wardrobes and is served by a modern en-suite shower room. Outside is a fully enclosed, south facing garden which wraps round to the side of the house for additional space. The garage is accessed via the garden and there is also a rear access gate to access the parking space in front of the garage.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Mill Road, Rooksdown
ÂŁ300,000
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to present to the market, with versatile accommodation, this well presented town house, being a superb home for a large family.The large entrance hall on the ground floor has a personal door to the garage and cloakroom. To the end of the hallway, you will find access to a large kitchen/dining room overlooking the rear garden. The first floor presents a spacious living room that faces front with plenty of windows, letting in the light and a double bedroom. On the third floor are the two further double bedrooms, including the Master which benefits from en-suite facilities. There is also a family bathroom. Outside, the enclosed rear garden is laid to lawn and patio. To the front, 2 cars can be parked behind the other and the driveway leads to the garage.
Torque Close, Rooksdown
ÂŁ1,450 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this NEW BUILD, four bedroom house to the rental market. On the ground floor there is a good sized living room, generous cloakroom, beautifully fitted modern kitchen/ diner and separate utility room. The kitchen offers all integrated appliances. Double French Doors open out to the rear of the property to an immaculately presented private enclosed garden. Upstairs comprises of three double bedrooms, a single bedroom and modern family bathroom with shower over bath. The master bedroom boasts a generous en-suite shower room. Adjacent to this new build family home there is drive way parking for multiple cars plus a garage. Further to this, is side access to both the utility room from the drive way plus side access to the garden.
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Brambles, Newham
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Offers Over ÂŁ850,000
Brambles is a beautifully presented, executive home, which has been lovingly and tastefully refurbished by the current owners and is exceptionally presented throughout. There are four reception rooms and the dual aspect sitting room has an inglenook feature fireplace, a great sized study/home office. The well-appointed, family sized kitchen comes inclusive of Neff appliances, the kitchen flows effortlessly into the dining/family room and twin patio doors leading into the garden. Two bedrooms on the ground floor, one with en suite & walk in wardrobe, whilst upstairs is a master bedroom with en suite and a generous attic room. The separate annexe contains, kitchen, lounge/diner two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Outside, the property is approached through a gated, gravel driveway providing generous parking. The delightful, mature gardens are mainly laid to lawn with mature shrubs and borders. There are separate seating areas which are ideal for al fresco dining and entertaining.
Byfleet Avenue, Old Basing
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ÂŁ650,000
LODDON PROPERTIES is very pleased to offer this beautifully presented, one of a kind, 3/4 double bedroom, executive property, situated in the sought after location of Old Basing village. Comprising an extravagant entrance hall with beautiful solid oak herringbone floor, spacious living room with feature log burner, cloakroom, utility room, separate dining room/4th bedroom with French doors leading to the beautifully landscaped, private rear garden. A generously sized kitchen/family room complete with a large centre island and French doors leading to the garden. Upstairs is an impressive, super sized master suite, an en-suite shower room and dressing area with his and hers wardrobe space. Two further double bedrooms, and family bathroom. The garden is beautifully presented and has a summer house nestled neatly in the corner that comes with power. Ample parking and a detached double garage.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Cavalier Road, Old Basing
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ÂŁ595,000
NO CHAIN!! LODDON PROPERTIES is delighted to offer this large four bedroom, detached family home, set in a peaceful crescent in Old Basing village. The property has a real presence, which, with an open aspect to the rear over adjacent countryside, provides a tranquil setting. Comprising a large dual aspect lounge/dinner with sliding doors leading into the, stunning, generous rear garden. Inside, the ground floor further benefits from a large utility/boot room with access to the integral garage, study and side access to the garden. Upstairs comprises of three double bedrooms, with en-suite to master, a single bedroom and the family bathroom with full sized bath and separate shower. The front of the property has expansive parking for multiple cars, with space for a caravan or boat.
Rockbourne Road, Sherfield Park
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ÂŁ440,000
LODDON PROPERTIES is delighted to bring to the market this attractive, modern, four bedroom family home. Offering spacious accommodation over three floors, including a large modern integrated kitchen, separate dining room and a cloakroom on the ground floor. The first floor benefits from a living room with a balcony, a double bedroom and a family bathroom. The second floor accommodates the master bedroom suite, with dressing area and large en-suite, along with two further, good sized double bedrooms and a cloakroom. This property also benefits from a garage at the rear, with plenty of roof storage and parking in front. There is a secluded garden to the back of the house, with rear access giving access to the garage.
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Merryfield, Chineham £1,250 PCM
Messner Street, Everest Park £1,250 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present this 3 bedroom link-detached house to the rental market. On approach there is private driveway parking for two cars and a garage. The ground floor comprises of an entrance porch with downstairs cloakroom, fully fitted kitchen with white goods included, large light lounge leading to a separate dining area with door to patio and private enclosed rear garden. Upstairs there are 3 good size bedrooms and family bathroom with shower over bath. This home has been fully redecorated with new karndean flooring downstairs.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this stunning 3 bedroom semi-detached house located in Everest Park. On the ground floor this property benefits from downstairs cloakroom, Kitchen with all appliances including dishwasher and a large spacious lounge/diner with patio doors leading to a larger than average private enclosed rear garden with artificial lawn. Upstairs offers 2 double bedrooms and one single/study and a modern family bathroom with shower over bath. The master suite offers fitted wardrobes plus an ensuite shower room.
Malta Close, Popley £235,000
Catkin Close, Chineham £260,000
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to present this three bedroom NO CHAIN, house in Popley. Tucked away from the road, and comprises of a hallway, downstairs cloakroom, utility room, spacious kitchen/ breakfast room, and a large living room/ diner, boasting two sets of French doors that lead to the private enclosed rear garden. Upstairs you will find 3 good sized bedrooms and 3 piece shower room. Outside there is a generous front garden and a low maintenance rear garden, comprising of a patio area and pebbled areas.
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to bring to the market this beautiful, two bedroom home situated in a quiet cul-de-sac within Chineham. This well presented home offers entrance hall, a good sized lounge/ diner, rear aspect kitchen complete with built in oven, hob and cooker-hood. A rear door opens out to the generous, well kept garden and hosts a patio, lawn area and a rear access gate. Upstairs there is a large double bedroom, a single bedroom, and a modern family bathroom. To the front of the property there is driveway parking.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
CALL US TODAY FOR A FREE NO OBLIGATION VALUATION
Pershore Road, Popley £295,000
Lime Gardens, Town Centre £195,000
LODDON PROPERTIES offer this beautifully presented three bedroom property. Lovingly refurbished to a very high standard, with entrance hall/boot room, and large storage cupboard, an impressive kitchen/diner and large lounge providing access to the garden, there is a separate study area, both overlook the large private rear garden. Upstairs are 3 double bedrooms, two of which have built in wardrobes, and a family shower room, with an extra large shower.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to bring to the market this stunning two bedroom apartment situated around a mile of Basingstoke town centre and main line railway station. With accommodation comprising of great sized lounge/diner, spacious kitchen with appliances including gas hob, modern family bathroom and two good sized double bedrooms. The property has 102 years left on the leasehold, and there is no ground rent. Maintenance fee is under £700 per year. The property also benefits from two parking spaces.
Normanton Road, Oakridge £1,050 PCM
Churchill Place, Town Centre £850 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this newly refurbished, three bedroom terraced family home situated in the popular Oakridge area of Basingstoke. The property offers open plan living room/ dining, kitchen with white goods included, three bedrooms, family bathroom,with separate W/C. Private enclosed garden to the rear, garage with off street parking to the front of the property. Walking distance to Town Centre and Railway station, with easy access to M3/M4 commuter routes.
LODDON PROPERTIES present to the rental market this one bedroom furnished property on the ninth floor. This apartment comprises of a bright living area, open plan kitchen with integrated appliances, one double bedroom with in built sliding wardrobe and family bathroom with shower over bath. This apartment further benefits from secure allocated parking.
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Blackberry Walk, Chineham £995 PCM
Lillymill Chine, Chineham £750 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this recently fully refurbished 2 double bedroom house within the very desirable Lychpit area to the rental market. On entering, this home offers a newly fitted kitchen which leads to a large lounge/diner with patio doors to a private enclosed rear garden. Upstairs this home has two double bedrooms and a modern newly fitted family bathroom with shower over bath. To the front of the property there is parking and the further benefit of a garage.
LODDON PROPERTIES are pleased to offer this large and well presented one double Bedroom apartment to the rental market. Inside offers a spacious kitchen with appliances included, exceptionally large lounge/diner, a double bedroom and modern bathroom including a shower over bath. This apartment is offered unfurnished. Outside there is a single allocated parking bay, with visitor bays available.
Norris House, Overton £795 PCM
Churchill Place, Town Centre £695 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present this show home condition two double bedroom flat to the rental market. The property is a first floor apartment comprising of a large lounge/dining room leading through double doors to a galley kitchen with all white good included, further to the entrance hall there are two double bedrooms (Master with fully fitted cupboards) and a newly fitted modern family bathroom with shower over bath. The property is situated in the heart of Overton village and walking distance to local amenities, and comes with allocated parking.
LODDON PROPERTIES present to the rental market this 12th floor studio apartment located in the centre of Basingstoke. Comprising of a bright living/bedroom area, open plan kitchen with integrated appliances and large shower room with double shower tray, WC, vanity unit and huge mirror. Finished to a high standard this studio is available to move into now and comes on an unfurnished basis.
info@loddonproperties.com
01256 808454 Chineham Shopping Centre, Reading Road, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG24 8BQ
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LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to present to the market this extremely well maintained, versatile four bedroom, detached family home. Entrance hall & cloakroom, spacious living room, kitchen, utility, separate dining room, a large and bright, conservatory garden and into the double internal garage. Four good sized bedrooms with built in wardrobes and en-suite to master and a large modern family bathroom. The property further benefits from landscaped garden and driveway parking for multiple cars to the front of the property.
LODDON PROPERTIES is pleased to offer for sale this substantial detached residence situated in the heart of the sought after village of Sherfield on Loddon. The executive family property has been meticulously extended and improved over the years by the current owners. The accommodation includes cloakroom, lounge, separate dining room, luxury kitchen/dining room hub with bi fold doors to the garden. There is an additional family room and a work from home office, with door into the utility room.
The Dell, Kingsclere £3,750 PCM
LODDON PROPERTIES are proud to present, this immaculately presented home to the rental market. This 6 double bedroom Merchant House is an expansive space coming in excess of 3,200 sq.ft. over four storeys. Offered on an unfurnished basis and has lounge, hallway, dining room, master bedroom and studio. This home offers 6 spacious double bedrooms, 4 reception rooms, four bathrooms with two en-suite, three double showers and two baths and a staggering 6 toilets!
Spacious and well designed for the extended family seeking ample entertainment space both indoor and outdoors, luxurious accommodation and space to work from home or indulge hobbies. The property is approached through wooden gates offering extensive parking and access to the double garage. The house offers great flexible accommodation with spacious open plan living. A farmhouse sized kitchen with Aga, leading to the patio and on to the private garden stocked with mature trees, shrubs and flowers.
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Rockbourne Road, Sherfield Park £3,000 PCM
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Northfield Road, Sherfield-on-Loddon £675,000
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Saffron Close, Chineham Offers Over £500,000
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Meet Our Team Dawn Company Owner Dawn founded Loddon Properties and her primary focus is always on the customer, ensuring they receive the optimum care from her and her multi-lingual team. Dawn’s drive and commitment is responsible for developing Loddon Properties into the number one ranked independent estate agency in the area. Outside of work, Dawn is the chairman of the Wellington Boot Club, enjoys cultural travel and has a thing for shoes. She also enjoys good food, her family and her wonderful dog Rolo.
Lyle Lettings Director Lyle is Director of Lettings. Utilising his BA hons in Business Studies, he has expanded the lettings portfolio tremendously, so that Loddon is now the leading lettings agency in the area. He is highly adept at maximising rental income for landlords, works with property investors on acquisitions and is a highly-respected advisor on rental information and property investment. Lyle is now getting used to sleeping a lot less than he used to, as he has recently become a proud father.
Carla Director of Property Management Carla, our Director of Property Management, is a perfectionist and will always strive to deliver the highest level of professional customer service, for both our landlords and tenants. Having worked within customer services for over 20 years and a further 5 years specifically in Property Management, she enjoys working closely with landlords and tenants and as Lettings team leader, thrives in making sure a high level of customer service is delivered, by working hard and being efficient even in difficult situations. As well as her family and dogs, Carla’s main passion is ballroom dancing, though she has yet to receive the call to go on Strictly!
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Neil Property Management Manager As Property Maintenance Manager, with 8 years of experience from all aspects of the Lettings industry Neil brings his vast skills to Loddon, ensuring a smooth transition for both Landlords and Tenants through from inception to finalisation. Neil thrives on providing an excellent, personal service and his attention to detail, with both landlords and tenants alike. Ensuring that, should there be any problems during the tenancy, that they are dealt with in an efficient and timely manner. Neil boasts that working at Loddon is a very enjoyable part of his life. He feels it is not just the work, but the people he works with that make his working day so much fun. In his free time, of which there’s not much, Neil likes to run, hike and wherever possible sunbathe!
Julie Inventories and Inspection Manager Julie has been in the Property Industry since 1997 having started in New Home Sales and progressed to Lettings in 2008 whereby she became an Inventory Consultant/ Property Inspector. Julie’s happy-go-lucky, helpful, positive personality, coupled with her professionalism, allows her to get along with both Landlords and tenants from all walks of life. This comes in useful when she helps deal with any queries resulting from the property inspections, should they arise. Julie’s Role at Loddon is to make and provide Inventories, carry out tenant check-ins & check-outs, along with regular property inspections. She works closely with Carla and Neil and the rest of their teams to ensure the seamless running of the Property Management side of the Company. Julie’s passion for her dogs and love for life uses up most of her spare time!
Marion Head of Sales Progression Marion has been in Estate Agency for over 20 years and during that time has gone from secretary to office manager. With her excellent secretarial and organised administration background, Marion is now Head of our Sales Progression department. She puts her skills to good use. Pulling out all of the stops, making sure all parties are kept updated, ensuring that your journey from sale to completion is as straight forward as possible and most importantly, making sure your moving process is a happy and positive one. Marion is always busy but spends her free time with her family and their animals and taking well-earned holidays in sunnier and hotter climates.
loddonproperties.com
Dont just take our word for it ..... We had seen a lot of property “for sale” and the “sold” signs around Chineham, so naturally decided to look at Loddon when we were looking at selling. The way that Loddon marketed our property; all the photos were really good, they looked good on site and professional. If we were ever to sell our house again, we would use Loddon.
Lorraine Allcock / Seller
Loddon Properties are a friendly family organisation and we quite enjoyed their company and their approach to the whole thing. They have a great team of people and we felt many of the individuals in there, right from Lyle and Dawn, through to the sales team including Pedro and the lettings team with Carla, everybody seemed to be able to answer questions I have.
Annie Elvin / Seller
info@loddonproperties.com
Loddon are really approachable and, if there’s any problem with property, they come to the landlord first to see how you want to progress with it. Unlike a lot of other estate agents, they don’t get work done without you qualifying what you want to be done.
Paul Kennett / Landlord
Excellent service and communication from start to finish I can summarise my buying and selling with Loddon Properties as excellent- from start to finish.
Mr David and Mrs Sylvia Atkinson / Sellers
Loddon have got their finger on the pulse. Understand the market and have been very good at advising me at every level of the transactions.
Mr Herbert Goodenough / Landlord
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