Vale life jun jul 2015 web edition by Charlie Trott

Vale Life FREE MAGAZINE

Your free magazine for Aylesbury, Thame and the surrounding area

Take me home

www.vale-life.co.uk

w art w music w people w Motors w homes w gardens w theatre w food w fashion w Beauty w health w travel w

Jun/Jul 2015

Cover picture: Chef David Cavalier at The Village Gate, Wendover: See inside page 55 Photograph by Charlotte Hazeldine www.charlottehazeldine.com

Inside:

Chalky challenge

Taking on the 3 Peaks

Another dimension

Aylesburyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 3D Printing World See our website at: www.vale-life.co.uk

That perfect blend

New mayo from Mead Farm

Music at Le Manoir

Exclusive concert is gourmet delight Free local listings for events and businesses

Plus Katy, Penny, Heather, Naomi, Polly, Amanda, Janice, Jacqui, Cathy, Charlotte, Tracy, Rob, Alan and much, much more...

w Spa day for Two at whittlebury hall w pair of Sole flip flops w w Neoglow earphones w royal jigsaw puzzle w Tickets to family travel show w

The Old The Old Thatched Inn Thatched Inn Gastro Pub

Gastro Pub TheMainOld Street, Adstock, Buckinghamshire, MK18 2JN hatched Inn

Gastro Pub Main Street Adstock Buckinghamshire MK18 2JN We offer a unique blend high quality dining, hosted in a relaxed Tel of 01296 712584 and comfortable environment, serving locally sourced food

www.theoldthatchedinn.co.uk Open seven

Main Street Adstock Buckinghamshire MK18 2JN

days

Open seven days Lunch from 12 noon - 2.30pm Dinner from 6pm - 9.30pm Serving all day Sunday from 12 noon - 9pm Telephone: 01296 712584 2

Vale Life : Nov/Dec 2014

www.theoldthatchedinn.co.uk

Handmade in Haddenham

Herald Traditional Sash Windows Incorporating Slenderpane heritage slim double-glazed units

Makers of stable, durable and aesthetically pleasing Herald Sash Windows l

Manufacturers and suppliers of Slenderpane slim double-glazed units

Trade and retail enquiries welcome

Bespoke hand-cut, sealed, slim glass units - choose from: soft-coat low-E Planitherm; acoustic; leaded; toughened; laminated; or restoration glass Slim timber glazing bars l Ideal for conservation areas l Looks like single glazing l High performance l Choice of glass types l

Herald Joinery / Slenderpane Ltd, Unit 5, Thame Road Industrial Estate, Thame Road, Haddenham, Bucks, HP17 8BZ Herald Joinery: 01844 291111 www.heraldsashwindows.co.uk Slenderpane: 01844 292779 www.slenderpane.com Email: info@heraldjoinery.co.uk | sales@slenderpane.com Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

DESIGN WEB PRINT We offer a hassle free combination of professional design and print production facilities with a fast and efficient service

design

folders vehicle graphics

leaflets digital print adverts exhibition forms

cost effective web Stationery

mailers & Flyers

roller banners

Feel free to contact us to see what we can do for your business or project at competitive prices

Hand Made Kitchen Units at Realistic Prices

We can supply top quality hand made units any size/colour No need to compromise with mass production suppliers, (builders merchants, diy stores etc.) our units are made to measure so no unsightly ‘tray spaces’

Already got plans?

COMP ROOM MEDI A

Why not see how we compare for real quality

You may be pleasantly surprised!

01296 432612 thecomproom@btconnect.com www.comproommedia.com 18 Edison Road x Rabans Lane x Aylesbury x Bucks x HP19 8TE

Church View

Email david@quaintonfurniture.com Telephone 07751 472181

Established 1992

Funeral Directors

Tel: 01296 423233

‘When you want your flowers to be just perfect’

The Independent Family Funeral Service

Innovative, contemporary and traditional designs

46 Buckingham Street Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP20 2LL

Telephone: 01296 398553 24 Hour Service

A tradition of dignity, respect & choice 4

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

w Weddings w Corporate w Special Occasions w Sympathy w w Birthday Parties w Plants w Presentation bouquets w w Plus Gifts, Chocolates, Soft Toys, Wine and Champagne w w Order online, in store or by phone w 43b Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2NQ Tel: 01296 423233 Freephone: 0800 298 8514 Email: suesflowers2@hotmail.com

www.suesflowers.co.uk

vale_life_advert_Layout 1 21/07/2014 15:54 Page 1

Stoneworld the stone experts

Stone for the garden: for patio, paving, walls, gravel, cobbles and pebbles, feature stone and water features.

Stone for the home: for floors, worktops, fireplaces and hearths. Stone made to measure: reproduce any item in stone, from restoring an architectural feature to intricate sculpture for home and garden.

www.stoneworld.co.uk or come and visit: Stone for the garden Great Milton OX44 7NW 01844 279274

Stone for the home Thame OX9 2DW 01844 261768

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

www.mottsholidays.com

Luxury Coach Holidays Theatre trips, day trips

DayTrips, Theatres and short breaks & Shows Day Breaks:

Liverpool is not only famous for The Beatles - it is in the Guinness Book of Records as the official World Capital of Pop, producing the most number one singles! A great itinerary, including a guided tour of Liverpool, a visit to Port Sunlight, Mersey Ferry across to Birkenhead (fare not included), and a day in Southport. Lancashire Manor Hotel has been fully refurbished to the tune of £1 million. This country-style manor house is located away from the town, but within easy reach of the many attractions. 4 Days / 3 nights with breakfast and dinner included! Saturday 29th August 2015 £189 (members), £199 (nonmembers).

Mon 27th The Forest of Dean and Wye Valley £19 Tue 28th Cotswold Drive and Afternoon Tea £26 Wed 29th Swanage Coastal Day £20 Thur 30th Windsor leisure day £19 Thur 30th Frogmore House and Windsor £27 Thur 30th Windsor Castle and Windsor £23 Fri 31st Royal Artillery Museum, Woolwich £25

‘The last of the big bands!’

The Mike James Big Band in action Lenn Miller, Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey and Woody Herman all left their mark on the music world with some of the best Swing tunes of yesterday. Combine that with the orchestral and popular sounds

of Bert Kaempfert and James Last and vocal tributes to song stylists from across the ages such as: Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Michael Bublé and Diana Krall and you have a show of unforgettable

July 2015

August 2015 Sat 1st Royal Leamington Spa Leisure Day £19 Sat 1st Cadbury World £32 Mon 3rd Historic Chichester £19 Wed 5th Portsmouth, Coastal Day £20 Wed 5th Buckingham Palace and The Garden Highlights tour £49 Thur 6th Bognor Coastal Day £20 Thur 6th Blists Hill Victorian Town Ironbridge £34 Fri 7th Westfield Shopping Centre London £20 Sat 8th Brighton Coastal Day £20 Sat 8th Cosford RAF Museum £19

musical magic. We stay at the 4 start Orchard Hotel, Nottingham with breakfast, dinner and live entertainment included. 2 Days: Sun 23rd August - £189pp (£179 for Travel Club members).

Motts Holidays 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2LD BOOKING HOTLINE: 01296 336666

www.facebook.com/mottstravel 6

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

ng LI no 96 DA w 33 Y B for 66 RO yo 66 C ur HU 2 RE 015 !

International Ice dance sensations, The Imperial m ottstravel.co Ice Stars return for a.m third w w w : e ok onlin season to 4,000 Botriumphant square feet of ice at The Royal Albert Hall, for 12 Imperial IceStars performances only. Over the last ten years Sugar Plum Fairy. the award-winning troupe Set against a backdrop has thrilled audiences of colourful projections, across five countries opulent costumes, with their adrenalinemagic tricks and special rich performances effect, the cast of World, receiving nightly standing European and National ovations and outstanding Championships skaters international reviews. dance to Tchaikovsky’s As midnight strikes on a glorious score performed magical Christmas Eve, a by a live orchestra. toy Nutcracker comes to A festive performance life, sweeping young Marie that will thrill and enchant to a world of enchantment all ages. 3pm performance where she meets the Stalls & Front circle Seats. Mouse King, the Nutcracker Tuesday 29th December Prince and, of course, the 2015: £73

NEW! Motts only! ‘Liverpool & Port Sunlight village’

Nutcracker On Ice Royal Albert Hall

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Great rates Amazing results To advertise in Vale Life Magazine Call Charlie on 07702 006218

Spread the word across The Vale: see: www.vale-life.co.uk for details

Summer savvy

Move with the times

Win SOLE flip flops

Another dimension

Face of the Vale

A true ferry tale

Swinging the lead

Win a spa day

Some like it hot!

That perfect blend

Stretch & roll

Gateway to Heaven

Taking the plunge

Turn it up!

Gripping tale

Searching for superheroes

Chalky challenge

Bye bye Bellowhead

Clash course

Walk the walk

Monuments

Music at Le Manoir

Outdoor living

Of art and nature

Thursdays are fun!

12 13 16 19 20 23 25 29 33 34

Katy Dyer looks at holiday fashion Grab some fab Summer footwear! Christopher’s a real diamond geezer! Nicky Gregory and her curious finds Amanda will soon have you beach-ready A new way to keep in shape Anyone can be a Scubaduck! Tracy’s having a swinging time Sign up for 3 Peaks fundraiser ‘It’s all about colour’, says Polly Tring Park’s hidden follys Charlotte’s ideas offer outdoor inspiration

36 Do try this at home

Show tips you can take home

Strength in diversity for Martin Kemps Affordable 3D printing

Penny’s holiday job from hell Whittlebury Hall awaits our winners Chiltern Cold Pressed on making mayo Fine food and nice garden too! Tune in to Dan Mordente’s music news ‘Can you make a difference?’ says Stacey. Band’s last ever Towersey Festival Waterside crew to follow in Dick’s footsteps Exclusive concert celebrates music and food Sculpture in the gardens at Turn End Free activities in Aylesbury town centre

Years whizzing by

t seems no sooner had Vale Life celebrated five years in business than I became aware of several other local firms with landmark anniversaries to commemorate. Eclipse Hair Design in Thame is one of the area’s most popular salons and has grown from a small side street salon, with two stylists, to a busy, bustling temple of style in a prominent position on North Street, opposite the library. Owner Louise Dockery and her team are a friendly, creative and talented bunch and know how to party too - as I found out at their

ongratulations to the following May/Jun edition competition winners! Hopefully your prizes will have arrived by now, please let us know if not. Commiserations to those who weren’t so lucky - read on though

10th anniversary ball recently. They kindly invited me along to join in the celebrations at The Spread Eagle Hotel - a really fabulous event with a live band, close up magic from the amazing Sylar, lovely food by the Spread Eagle and of course a few glasses of bubbly to toast the occasion. They do things properly at Eclipse - thank you for having me and here’s to the next 10 years! Over in Wendover I gather No2 Pound Street have a fifth anniversary coming up this year. With all that cheese and wine knocking around it’s probably hard

for more competitions inside this edition, including the chance to win: Spa day for two with buffet lunch at Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa; Tickets to The Family Travel Show; Tickets to The Cruise Show; A copy of; Royal jigsaw puzzle; a

Eclipse party in full swing

not to have a party there most days, so some sort of bash must be on the cards! In our last edition we featured Aylesbury Flooring and their amazing 25 years in business, which is very impressive. Husband and wife team Ian and Jayne Middleton have been at the same premises in Bedgrove since 1990 quietly building a reputation for good

pair of Neoglow earphones; a pair of SOLE flip flops. Last issue’s prizewinners were: Dinner for two at The Boot: Heffie Helygen, Middle Claydon Scaramouche & Fandango men’s grooming bag: Paul Thorn, Princes Risborough

customer service and competitive prices. Well done indeed to them! Meanwhile in this edition, on page 40, we feature property firm Martin Kemps who are celebrating 30 years in business. The company is not standing still though and has just refurbished its Thame office and is updating its branding and website. It’s nice to see local businesses doing well and important we keep using independent local firms as it keeps the Vale economy buoyant, which benefits us all. Happy reading,

Charlie Charlie Trott, Editor

Tickets to Beacon Festival: Emma Taylor, Longwick Tickets to The Southern Housebuilding & Renovation Show: Alice Clarke, Stewkley; Steve Giles, Aylesbury; Christine Davies, Waddesdon Two adult weekend tickets

to Towersey festival: Miriam McGilvray, Aston Sandford Rupert’s Parchment book: James McCann, Aylesbury; Frances Kane, Aylesbury Tickets to East Is East at The Waterside Theatre: Liz McHugh, Tring.

Vale Life Magazine is designed and published by Vale Life Magazine, 23 Glenham Road, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3WD Telephone: 01844 261579 Mobile: 07702 006218 Website: www.vale-life.co.uk Email: editor@vale-life.co.uk Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of Vale Life. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions or late changes. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers. Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

with Katy Dyer

Personal stylist and fashion expert Katy scours our local boutiques and passes on tips and tricks for looking your best, plus the latest news on the high street trends

Summer savvy

ressing for summer can strike fear into the best of us. Especially when we know what might constitute a British summer wellies are sometimes preferable to sandals, even mid-August! But with summer fêtes, festivals and holidays just around the corner, here’s how to inject a summer splash into your wardrobe, to look and feel great whatever the weather!

Summer Trends The key summer trends in 2015 include Safari and 70s Boho. Both offer laid back style in easy to wear pieces, such as drapey wraps, button up dresses and of course, stand out colour, in both block and pattern. If you want to get ahead… get a hat. Triby is very much the style of the season, kiss-mequick and more stylish headgear in summer staples of straw, linen and hemp for both men and women. Get grooming With less clothes and the likelihood of summer sandals, make sure to book in with you beauty therapist for a great pedicure (and that’s the men too) to get your feet in great shape.

TOPMAN Cream Trilby with contrast band £14

Accessorize Ivory Trilby with Blue Bow £15 Accessorize Paradise Kaftan £39 TOPMAN Straw Trilby with blue mix band £14

Happy Holidays Whether you’re off to a far-flung destination or making time for a staycation in the UK, a beach break or energetic sporting holiday a bit of planning for your time away will pay dividends. What do you really need

- your favourite top that only really goes with jeans - or would you be better off going for that light kaftan that you’ve had your eye on (tip: will make a great cover up for a poolside lunch; dressed up with accessories and metallic sandals - hello evening glam!). If you’re planning more of an active break, comfort may well be your first priority. Think lightweight and easy care - and to make you clothes work harder, stick to a simple colour palette, so that you can mix tops, bottoms and accessories to create a different look;

TOPSHOP Fig lace-up sandals £39

Office /John Lewis Birkenstock Arizona Metallic Leather Copper Flat Sandals £54.95

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

New Look White Sleeveless Stripe Shirt Dress £19.99 holidaymaker, you’ll want to choose a suit that will give you freedom to move. There is a huge range of sports swimsuits available from the well-known swimwear brands, as well as sports boutiques and lingerie stores. If you prefer a more laid back break, I recommend a visit to a specialist lingerie store who will stock and advise on sized swimwear that will work best for your shape and destination.

Accessorize Crochet Beach Cover Up that and a contingency wet weather cover up - keep it bright! Swim when you’re winning Swimwear - love it or loathe it, it pays to seek out the suit that will flatter and fit well as well as looking good. If you are an active

l Katy Dyer is an award-winning personal stylist and image consultant. Katy is skilled at helping people discover the confidence to change or develop their personal or professional style and image - whether it’s a new career, a new stage in your life, finding the right outfit for a special occasion or to completely reinvent your look and make the most of you. For more details about Katy Dyer products and services, visit: www.katydyer.com or email katy@ katydyer.com Gift vouchers and experiences are available.

Win a pair of SOLE Flip flops S

andals and flip flops are a summer essential and with good reason - fresh air encourages fresh feet and they are so easy to slip on and flip off… However, a big drawback with fashion or budget flip flops is their flat soles give little cushioning and force your toes to scrunch and your stride to shorten just to keep them on. After a while, your feet can become uncomfortable and calf strain and lower leg fatigue sets in. SOLE sandals and flip flops have an orthopaedic footbed that moulds to the shape of your feet to give unique support from your toes to your heels which helps: Equalise pressure distribution; Reduce plantar fascia strain; Increase balance and feel; and Maximise natural heel cushioning The shaped heel cup, metatarsal support pad, arch support and hidden toe ridge features combine to align your feet correctly helping improve posture and support your natural gait.

Cork flip flops ‘Aura’

SOLE has a choice of three flip flops and an innovative sandal at www.yoursole.co.uk. SOLE Casual Flips have a cork footbed and woven fabric straps. They are stylish enough for smarter outfits and comfortable enough to wear all day and into the evening. Available for men and women, in a choice of colours and sizes from 2 to 13, they cost £55. SOLE Sport Flips are versatile and waterproof making them ideal for the beach, pool, park and riverside. They’re great for camping and don’t mind being caught in the rain. Available for men and women, in a choice of eight colours and sizes from 2 to 13, they cost £50.

Cork flip flops ‘Coal’ Navigate sandals ‘Anchor’ Sport Slides ‘Yeti’

SOLE Sport Slides are the perfect choice for people who don’t like toe thongs as they feature a one-piece upper with accommodative stretch goring. They’re ideal for casual wear, by the pool, in the locker room and on holiday. Available in men’s and women’s designs and a choice of colours in sizes 3 to 12, they cost £50. SOLE NAVIGATE sandals have adjustable nylon straps that anchor your feet to the lightweight sole without feeling too restrictive. The single closure allows the sandals to slip on and off with little effort while the heel pull tab makes them easy to pull on. Polygiene® Anti-odour Treatment helps keep your feet

feeling fresh. Available in a choice of blue/white, purple/white, grey and black and sizes 3 to 12, they cost £80. For more information and to buy, visit www.yoursole.co.uk If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning a pair of SOLE flip flops, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the style, colour and size of flip flop (see www.yoursole.co.uk for options) plus the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk When is this year’s show? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by July 20th, 2015. l www.yoursole.co.uk

Celebrating the the unusual Celebrating

Wood Jewellery Glass Leather

& fellows

A new gallery in Thame of contemporary arts & crafts

Image Style Colour Corporate Gift vouchers also available

in creative creativecraftsmanship craftsmanship In

Ceramics

Wardrobe Review Personal Shopping Group Consultations Workshops 1 east Street, Thame Oxfordshire, OX9 3JS 01844 215099 fitchandfellows@gmail.com Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

A B C AYLESBURY BULLION COMPANY The Family of Jewellers

11a, High St Aylesbury Buckinghamshire HP20 1SH Tel:

01296 423198

Jewellery designed and produced to your specifications, or choose from our extensive range of new, secondhand and antique pieces. l Diamond merchants (certified stones always available) l Antique restorations l Hand engraving

l Valuations: insurance and (carried out on the premises) l Insurance claims advisors l Complete repair service

probate

Servicing of Rolex, Tag, Omega, Raymond Weil, Gucci etc. Batteries fitted and waterproof testing carried out on the premises. Top prices paid in cash for antique and modern jewellery, watches (especially Rolex), coins, gold, silver, platinum and scrap precious metals. Part exchange available.

11a High Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 1SH

Tel: 01296 423198 www.aylesburybullion.co.uk

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Emily & Fin Hawaiian print dress

Fashion, Jewellery, Gifts & Interiors

Azuni Cleo wrap necklace

ummer is here and whether the sun is shining or not you need to prepare for the best, not the worst. At White Hart Studio there’s plenty to give you a warm and sunny glow inside and out, from a chunky fire basket to keep things balmy al fresco, whilst a rustic box seat will provide a comfortable and stylish addition to your garden seating. Fashion wise you can take it to the max this season with floaty full-length and fabulously colourful summer dresses from Alice Pig and Emily & Fin. The devil’s in the detail here, see the cut-away back and knee-high slash on Alice Pig’s ‘Goldie’s Groove’, (right), which will catch the eye without being too revealing, while Cowboy and Hawaiian prints nod to the 70s. Fun trinkets with a nautical theme from Shoeless Joe will both brighten up the bathroom and keep the kids amused, while your jewellery will shine, come rain or sun, with a splash of the exotic this Cleo wrap necklace by Azuni, (top right), is a must have which can also be worn as a bracelet, perfect for by the beach or when dressed up to add a touch of sparkle on those Summer nights. Don’t wait for the warmer weather, hot foot it to Haddenham now and make hay while the sun shines...

Goldie’s Groove dress by Alice’s Pig

Fire basket

Wearable Summer fashions

Nautical fun from Shoeless Joe

Box seat l White Hart Studio, 15 Churchway, Haddenham, Bucks, HP17 8AB Tel: 01844 292308 Open Tue-Sat 10am-5pm & Sun 11am-4pm Website: www.whitehartstudio.com

Summer bags Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Face of the Vale

A new Vale Life Magazine series of interviews and portraits in conjunction with photographer Peter Griffith of All People Photography, Waddesdon, www.allpeoplephotography.com

hristopher Clarke is the third generation of Clarkes to run Aylesbury’s Hester Clarke jewellery shop. He is now ably assisted by a fourth and fifth generation, as daughters Julia and Nicola and grandson Michael also now work at the family business. The Clarkes are firmly established in Aylesbury, having lived in the town some forty five years since moving out from London and buying the local Hester & Sons jewellery firm. Christopher grew up in London and was sent off to Biggs of Farnham to learn his trade, before he was allowed to work for his grandfather’s West End jewellers, which was ‘far too up market to entertain trainees!’ Christopher eventually joined the family firm in 1953 and then in 1969 moved out to Aylesbury and started the new Hester Clarke company with his father, trading from a tiny store opposite the Literary Club, on Temple Street, a bustling centre of commerce in those days, full of privately owned shops. “The town has changed tremendously,” says 12

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Christopher Clarke

Photograph by Pete Griffith, March 2015 Christopher, “It’s still a fantastic place to be but there’s a lot more chains and multiples and not so many private shops which has diminished its individuality a bit. Everything from the furniture stores to the shoe shops were privately owned back in the 70s and there was a livestock market every week. It seemed very lively, a real centre for things. I enjoy having the business here though, I like Aylesbury very much. We live in the centre just a few minutes walk from work.” At Hester Clarke Christopher retains traditional independent values: “We still offer, personal service and individuality,” he says. “We’re a typical county jeweller, offering all the services you’d expect to find, but with the extra personal attention, knowledge, expertise and advice that you don’t get from a chain organisation. “People like to find something different. Jewellery is very personal and we cater for that with a unique and varied range and the option of having an original design made to your specifications for a true one-off.” Although past retirement age Christopher, still enjoys playing an active part in the business

and has no plans to quit yet! He is working a few less hours nowadays and is happy for daughters, Julia and Nicola, to take the strain. “I still enjoy coming to work,” he says, “and I get to see my daughters every day, which is lovely, so I am very happy.” “I grew up with my father and grandfather talking about jewellery, clocks and watches, passing on their knowledge and showing me items. I developed an interest which has passed on to my daughters. We are keen to maintain and promote professional standards across the industry and have been involved in trade organisations such as The Clockmakers Company and we are all Goldsmiths. In his spare time Christopher does talks and lectures, popular topics being ‘Diamonds are a girl’s best friend’, ‘Hallmarking’ and the ‘London Livery Companies’. He also enjoys foreign travel and good food with the Five Arrows at Waddesdon being one of his favourite dining destinations and the Temple Street Wine bar a regular haunt. He is also a member of the Aylesbury Dining Club.

Column: Nicky Gregory‘Curious World’

Swinging the lead...

art of the fun of dealing in antiques is finding unusual, quirky and curious items and managing to discover their original purpose. At the Antiques Centre in Wendover we have a monthly competition which involves identifying such objects. One of our past items was a Victorian Cream Cheese Mould. It is made of metal and has six short, 2” (5cms,) open tubes on a raised base. One centre tube having a small oval brass plate with the

name M.H. Sarsons, Ironmongers, Aylesbury. The moulds were lined with blotting or similarly absorptive paper and then placed on a board over a straw draining mat. The soft cheese curd was carefully and firmly pressed into the mould with a knife. The mould was then removed leaving the cheeses on the mat where they were left until required. 1900s. M.H. Sarsons became J.H. Bradford, Aylesbury in the early

Nicky Gregory

Curious world

This mystery object is a lead weight, but what was it used for?! The mystery object for July is pictured left and is in our Antiques Centre at Wendover for anyone who would like to come and see it for themselves. It is a lead weight, but do you know or can you imagine what it was used for?

Why not hazard a guess - the prize for the winner, chosen from the correct answers submitted, is a £10 Gift Voucher for Antiques at Wendover. Email your answers along with your name, address and contact telephone number to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Winner to be drawn and notified by email by July 20th 2015. l Nicky Gregory is the owner of Antiques@Wendover, The Old Post Office, 25 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU Tel: 01296 625335 Email: antiques@antiquesatwendover.co.uk Web: www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk

ANTIQUES AT… WENDOVER A Dateline ANTIQUES CENTRE Est. 1987 A QUALITY ANTIQUES CENTRE offering town and country antiques in a Tudor, brick and timber house, with wall paintings and inglenook fireplaces. Park in the Courtyard at the rear, where you will find Garden Antiques, a Tea Shop, the Barn Courtyard Shops and an Artist’s Studio. We are open every day - from 10am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday and from 11am to 5pm, Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Hester Clarke Fine Jewellers

Independent Family Jewellers since 1892 Goldsmiths House 10-14 Cambridge Street Aylesbury Bucks HP20 1RS www.hesterclarke.co.uk

01296 482963

Victorian Glass Scent Bottles £110 - £175. The Old Post Office, 25 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU Tel: 01296 625335 Email: antiques@antiquesatwendover.co.uk Website: www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Column: Janice Issitt ‘Making the most of it’

Meeting the artists

ast month I visited an artist whom I have admired for a long time at her studio in Crouch End, during her Open Studios week. Attending Open Studio events is so much more personal that visiting galleries and you get the opportunity to talk to the artist/maker about where you would like to put their work and how to display it in your own home. Buckinghamshire Open Studios ran from June 6th-21st and was an important anniversary this year as they have been going for 30 years, putting them well ahead of the London studios. To celebrate and draw attention to the 30th birthday extra ‘fanfare’ events have been taking place such as a glorious mix of paintings, ceramics, sculpture and jewellery showcasing work by some 130 artists and makers at Bucks County Museum in Aylesbury from 23rd May to 4th July and a preexhibition show in Milton Keynes Central Library from 14th May to 22nd June. Both these events are free to attend. In my line of work I meet a lot

Porcelain skulls of artists and collaborate with by Hannah Getley them on projects. Recently I’ve been taking photographs of work by Hannah Getley who is from Berkhamsted. Hannah paints tattoo inspired designs onto porcelain skulls, which I have pictured here. If any other local artists see this and would like me to photograph their work, please get in touch through my facebook page. Although Open Studios is nearly over for another year, I hope you made it along to some of the studios that have taken the time to participate in the event. It’s a great way to start buying original art, begin a collection and learn from the artist directly about their inspiration. If you’ve missed it sign up the newsletter at: www. bucksopenstudios.org.uk and next year you’ll be ahead of the game!

Floristry for all occasions l Bouquets

and arrangements for any occasion: anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, Christmas... contemporary or traditional designs l Floral Tributes: Option for bereaved to assist in creating floral tributes for their loved ones l Children’s Parties: Combining nature with arts and crafts skills in a fun atmosphere l Seasonal workshops: see website for details and dates

4 Lakeside, Watermead, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP19 0FX Tel: 01296 708095 / Mobile: 07538 296430 Email:info@thelilypot.co.uk Web: www.thelilypot.co.uk Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Making the most of it

l Read Janice’s blog at: http:// janiceissittlifestyle.blogspot.co.uk where she posts photo tutorials about things to make and lovely pictures of life in the Vale.

The Lily Pot

Janice Issitt

Win a pair of funky Neoglow earphones

ife’s better when everything is in sync, therefore life is even better with the Neoglow Earphones. These bright blue illuminating earphones utilise sound reactive technology to illuminate and pulsate in time with your favourite tracks. With a micro USB cable and built-in microphone included, you can now take calls on the ‘Glow’! The Neoglow Earphones come with everything you need to use them straight away - just plug into your smartphone, The Neoglow Earphones cost £19.95 from Genie Gadgets (www. geniegadgets.com) but if you’d like to be in with a chance of winning a pair, simply email your name,

address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Which Ella hit the top ten with a song called ‘Glow’ towards the end of last year? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by July 20th, 2015. l www.geniegadgets.com

Providing the ultimate salon experience

What’s the news from Happy Birthday! Happy Birthday! Join in the Eclipse Hair Design 10th Birthday Celebrations and you could WIN one of 10 fabulous prizes!!!

OK so nobody likes getting any older but there’s nothing to be gained by trying to hide away and pretend it’s not happening! In fact there’s every reason to be celebrating right now, for over the last 10 years Eclipse Hair Design has grown from a small side street salon with just a couple of staff, into a thriving modern business, occupying a prominent position in spacious and stylish premises on Thame’s North Street and Louise has built an amazing team of friendly, creative professional hair experts, lead by salon manager Vicki Krol. The client base has grown too drawing in the most elegant selection of discerning, sophisticated and stylishly coiffured ladies and gentlemen one could wish to meet. The whole thing has been such a success that a celebration is very much in order. So pop into Eclipse any time between now and July 20th and enter the special Eclipse 10th Anniversary Prize Draw by leaving your name and contact details at reception and you will be in with the chance of winning one of the following fabtastic prizes: PK Spa voucher worth £40 (2 available) Cut And Finish voucher worth £35.25 (2 available) Retail therapy voucher worth up to £35 (3 available) Colour Voucher worth £50 (3 available)

Introducing Catherine! Eclipse Hair Design would like to welcome our new Senior Designer Catherine, a talented and creative stylist and colourist with some eight years experience. Catherine lives in Aylesbury and was previously working at a salon in Wendover. We are extremely excited she has chosen to join us. To introduce Catherine to Eclipse we would like to offer all NEW clients making appointments with her at the salon during the first two weeks of July a special 1/2 Price off any colour. She is already booking up so if you

New Senior Designer Catherine are a new client who would like to try Eclipse Hair Design, hurry! Book your half price colour offer now. Call Eclipse on: 01844 260062.

Eclipse Hair Design, 56 North Street, Thame, OX9 3BH Tel: 01844 260062 Web: www.eclipsehair-design.co.uk Email: info@eclipsehair-design.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @eclipsethame and Facebook Eclipse Hair Design

STOP PRESS... online booking service - see: www.eclipsehair-design.co.uk Like us on Facebook for up to date information and promotions: Eclipse Hair Design

Amanda Trott

l Column

Health & Beauty

Amanda Trott The weather is warming up and we’ll soon be into holiday season - time to think about looking your best for the beach and preparing for those hot summer nights... Beauty Spot

or me, Summer is all about shedding those layers and being able to step outside bare skinned and glowing with minimal fuss. Glossy nails, on soft, smooth hands and feet, whether they’re a natural finish or wowed with a pop of colour, not only look beautiful but feel it too. If you’re on the pasty side, then a spray tan makes you look like you’ve had a long weekend in Nice and a set of fabulous lashes means goodbye to your mascara. To get that natural, sun kissed look can take a little bit of preparation but it’s time worth spending as the finished result should mean less time in front of the mirror and more time enjoying our very short British summer! Monera Beauty Clinic in North Street, Thame have been established for over 20 years and with ten therapists to choose from and a vast array of treatments and products on offer, it’s the place to head for if you’re looking for some summer pampering. They are now a Guinot Crown and a Clarins Gold Salon which means they stock the full range of Clarins and Guinot retail products and also have fantastic monthly promotions, so it’s worth keeping an eye on their website for special offers. Preparing your skin for the sun is something many of us don’t think about but if you’re prone to problems such as prickly heat and burning then Guinot Pro Soleil Capsules can help prepare your skin for an even tan and protect against harmful UV rays. Rich in beta-carotene and vitamins, the Pro Soleil capsules reinforce the skin’s natural defences, ensuring a deep, long-lasting tan. Just take one capsule a day during the period of sun exposure, as well as two weeks before and after for maximum benefit. Trying to get that sun-kissed look at home can be tricky and result in brown palms, streaky legs or even a

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Jessica GELeration nails tangoed orange tan. It seems that no matter what brand of off the shelf bronzer I buy, the results are never good. Monera offer St.Tropez Spray Tans which are the quickest way to a professional finish. Delivered in around 15 minutes, the spray is quick drying and now features Aromaguard™ fragrance technology which eliminates the tell-tale self tan aroma. It’s worth spending a little time the morning or evening before your treatment exfoliating, paying extra attention to drier areas like hands, elbows, knees and feet and waxing or shaving 24 hours beforehand. On the day, make sure your skin is free from self tan, deodorant and aromatherapy oils too. Wear dark loose fitting clothes and dark coloured underwear and make sure not to shower or bathe for a minimum of four hours after your treatment. A manicure or pedicure always feels like a treat and using nail enhancements can make those glossy nails last even longer. Monera offer several types including Acrylic, Bio Sculpture, Distinction and the ever popular Jessica GELeration. GELeration works like an extra hard wearing, long lasting nail varnish. Created with the health of your natural nail in mind, it protects your nails, while offering weak, bitten or problem nails, the opportunity to grow underneath the gel.

It lasts for up to 4 weeks and all the while keeps a high gloss. These types of nail systems are ‘cured’ under a special lamp so there is no fear of smudging your beautiful new finish as they are instantly dry. Fab for ladies on the run! No beach baby would be complete without a set of fabulous peepers and individual lash extensions will give you that wideeyed look which, with a little care, will last for weeks. Individual lashes are perfect for daily wear and for those with an active lifestyle. You can shower, swim, and sleep without worry

St Tropez Spray Tan

because eyelash extensions are waterproof and durable. You can enjoy having long, beautiful and thicker lashes for weeks at a time without hassle, inconvenience or the need for mascara, although to maintain your look it is recommended you have infills every two to three weeks. These luscious lashes are so natural that no one will ever know the difference and they have a natural curl so you can throw away your eyelash curler. The lashes come in various thicknesses, colours and lengths and blend seamlessly with your own lashes. So, whether you’re planning on heading abroad this Summer or sunning yourself on a staycation closer to home, pop into Monera and the team will have you bronzed, beautiful and beach-ready in no time. l Amanda is a talented and experienced, Vidal Sassoon trained hair stylist, who at one time managed Charles Worthington’s Covent Garden salon. If you would like to have your hair cut, styled or coloured by Amanda she is available in Thame from Mondays to Thursdays at Eclipse Hair Design. Call 01844 260062 to book or arrange a free consultation.

Win a pair of tickets to The Birmingham CRUISE Show

s Europe’s leading cruise event, The CRUISE Show will host the largest collection of major cruise lines and specialist operators all under one roof for one weekend! Whether you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime expedition cruise to a far-flung destination, a sumptuous ultra-luxury voyage, maybe a relaxing cultural river cruise or a tropical family cruiseholiday with lots to entertain all ages – The CRUISE Show at the NEC Birmingham has it all. Packed with information and inspiration visitors can enjoy exclusive money-saving show offers and upgrades, be inspired by the informative free talks, gain essential expert advice that you won’t find in the brochure, discover different ship styles and incredible destinations and hear directly from the cruise lines about what’s new for 2015/2016. So, if you’re completely new to cruising and intrigued to discover what it’s all about, or you’re a

Where is The CRUISE Show in Birmingham taking place? - Olympia - NEC - Manchester Central Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by July 20th, 2015.

seasoned cruiser wanting inspiration for your next adventure, then make sure you head to The CRUISE Show at Birmingham’s NEC on 12th-13th September 2015. For more show information please visit www.cruisingshow.com If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning a pair of

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READER’S TICKET OFFER: We are also offering reduced price advance tickets to the show! Get your tickets for only £4 (that’s saving £6 off the door price!!) by quoting ‘VALELIFE’ when booking tickets online at www.cruisingshow.com or when calling 0871 620 4024. (Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras). l www.cruisingshow.com Ticket hotline: 0871 620 4024

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Bow House is proud to celebrate the fact that they have been short listed for two prestigious awards Private Dentistry and also Dentistry Awards for...

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Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Column: Fitness Focus with Polly Wright

Health & Fitness

Work the finer muscles

began to understand the importance of flexibility for both sport and everyday living whilst working as a Personal Trainer in Queenstown, New Zealand, a town full of fitness fanatics to whom health was the number one priority. I learnt that high impact sports werenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the only thing to focus on when getting fit, and that time spent working on the finer muscles had benefits, both physical and mental. I returned home to Thame with a passion for educating and motivating people to be more physically active. Following my degree in Sports and Exercise Therapy at Leeds Met, I trained Polly Wright in Stretching and Foam Rolling and set up my own business, a combination of the two called Stretch and Roll. Stretch and Roll is a class for all ages and abilities which offers a multitude of benefits to the

Stretch and roll

Polly Wright Stretch & Roll

body. Whether it is rehabilitating from an injury, helping to improve athletic performance in other fields, a desire to become more toned and flexible, or just somewhere to escape from the pressures of

everyday life. Foam rolling is the secret weapon of many recovery exercise programs and a terrific way to release tension in the body. The class teaches you how to use the foam roller, a 3 foot long cylinder made of a soft, foam-like material. You learn how to sit on it, lay on it, lean on it and roll on it to release stiffness in your calves, knees, hips, low back and upper back.

I pride myself on offering classes that are fun, light hearted and energetic from the inside out. If you want to improve your flexibility, strength, and body tone, but have been put off by the perceived mysterious or spiritual aspects of Yoga. Stretch and Roll is the perfect workout to get more bendy and feel better from the inside out. I run a Wednesday morning class and a Thursday evening class at The Thame Barns Centre. I also run tailored sessions for Sport Clubs to teach the importance of flexibility training for their sport. Please see my website for more information: www. pollywrightfitness.co.uk l Polly Wright Fitness www.pollywrightfitness.co.uk

Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy Has helped many people in many ways. It could be just the help you need!

Angie Elbourn

DHP. MNRAH Reg Hyp. Reg CNHC Over 25 years experienced therapist

CNHC are the only regulatory body for the profession of hypnotherapy that is recognised by the Dept of Health. Tel: 07775 677796 Website: www.hypnohelp.co (just .co not uk) Email: Angie.hypnohelp@hotmail.co.uk

Kate Walker

Mobile Chiropodist

Stella Huxley

BSc (Hons) Hcpc Registered

Massage Therapist

General Foot Care l Verruca Treatment l Ingrowing Nails l Biomechanics l

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Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Health & Fitness

Column: Fitness Focus with Sue Thomas

Taking the plunge! W ould you like to get fit and be more active? To spend more time with your family? To learn something new? Let Scubaducks Dive Centre help! Scubaducks will open the door to a world full of exciting new experiences the whole family can get involved in. From one-off ‘have a go’ experiences, through special programmes just for the kids, to diving courses for everyone, scuba diving is a great way to get fit, experience new things and spend more quality time with your family. “Ah, but…” I hear you say, “Diving is too expensive!” “Don’t you have to be 18 years?” “Won’t I have to travel a long way?” Myth 1: You have to travel a long way to dive - No! It’s all here, in the heart of Aylesbury! Located just off Rabans Lane, we are easily accessible. We have our own on-site heated pool and there is easy, free parking right outside the door. We are open seven days a week, and on some evenings. We have our own pool so can offer sessions at times

Scuba diving - fun for all ages

that suit you and your family. Myth 2: The minimum age is 18 - No! Diving is great for the whole family! Children 8 years old can scuba dive, and younger ones can snorkel! Even grandparents can join in. It’s an exhilarating sport that everyone can participate in together, at the same level enjoying the same experiences. How many sports can offer that?! We offer snorkelling experiences for all ages, and scuba Try Dives

Thame Therapy Clinic Complementary Health Therapies from Experienced Practitioners 23 Upper High Street, Thame, OX9 3EX Tel: 01844 215555

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from 8 years upwards. As a PADI Five-Star Instructor Development Centre, we offer a full range of courses and programmes, including Seal Team – a scuba programme especially for kids 8–12 years, and Open Water Diver courses (the diving equivalent of a driving licence) from 10 years and older. Snorkelling sessions or scuba Try Dives make great birthday parties too! Great for a family birthday party as all ages can have fun together! Or how about a teambuilding event for your staff or work colleagues? Myth 3: Diving is expensive - No! All equipment is provided for you to have a go, or to learn to dive. All you need is your swimming costume and a towel. Our equipment is up-to-date, well maintained and available in a range of sizes to fit all ages and all shapes! Try Dives cost from just £30 and it costs less than you might think to become fully qualified. If you want to continue your diving adventure, all of the equipment is available to hire until

What does it cost? CV Health offers a competitively priced service at £80.

Call now 01494 555204 Monday to Friday ( 9 am to 5 pm) or email for an appointment: c.v.health@nhs.net 20

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

you want to buy your own. Myth 4: Must be a good swimmer - No! A basic swimming ability is all you need! You just need to be comfortable in the water, and to have good general health and a reasonable level of fitness. A simple health questionnaire is all that’s required before you can jump in. People with a wide range of disabilities, both physical and mental, can really benefit from the underwater experience too. Call us today on 01296 317787 to book your Try Dive and let us introduce you to an exciting new adventure for the whole family. l Scubaducks Dive Centre Ltd, 34 Edison Road, Aylesbury, HP19 8TE Tel: 01296 317787 Email: u2us@scubaducks.co.uk Web: www.scubaducks.co.uk

YOGA FOR EVERYONE Scaravelli inspired Yoga Classes Reduce Stress Improve Strength Flexibility and General Wellbeing

YOGA THERAPY

One to One Myofascial Yoga & Movement For injury and post surgery Help with posture, spine & alignment Contact Carolyn: 07817 830390 Email: caz@cazyoga.com Web: www.cazyoga.com

Maria Bray

EAR WAX REMOVAL If you are troubled by excessive ear wax causing discomfort or loss of hearing, CV Health Aural Care Service can offer you a very effective treatment at its Haddenham Medical Centre. Micro-suction is the most up-to-date procedure for removing obstructions in the ear and compared to syringing, it is safer, quicker, better tolerated and more effective.

Sue Thomas

Scubaducks Dive Centre

Nutritional Therapy

The Science of Health and Vitality l

Eat Well l Live Well l Feel Well

New Saturday morning Teen Clinic: £30 for 1 hour session l Boost your energy l Lower ‘bad’cholesterol/blood pressure l Lose weight without starving l Brighten your skin, hair and nails l Take charge of your health l Help your child deal with

growth/development or food issues

I can assist you to achieve your desired health improvements with a mutually agreed and appropriate stepped programme of dietary and lifestyle changes.

Call for free half hour consultation

Tel: Maria on 0771 5414719 / 01296 581561

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45 Buckingham Road, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP19 9PT Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

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Skinade is a revolutionary skincare product that works from the inside out to help rebuild and strengthen the collagen matrix below the skin’s surface, boost natural levels of hydration and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Developed by leading UK scientists and manufactured in Britain, Skinade’s unique formulation contains high-grade collagen and essential micro-nutrients feeding your skin from within.

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The Anti Ageing Clinic

The Caci Retreat

My Beauty Doctor

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Louise Onisha Claremont Holistics & Wellness Tring HP23 5DE 2015 Vale Life : Feb/Mar

Column: ‘Kiss & tell’ with Tracy Kiss

Gripping tale I

have to hold my hands up here and confess that I have about as much rhythm as a pebble plopping into a pond, and I’m about as seductive as a teapot! I’m a rather lanky, big-footed tomboy with a passion for fitness; and whilst pole dancers effortlessly twist and flip their toned torsos around in sky scraper heels to banging music and adoration from their fans, I’m instead using my pole for the not so glamorous act of pole fitness, to take my home workouts to the next level. My polished chrome X-pole arrived in a surprisingly small carry bag complete with attachments and tools. It can be stored and transported in sections and assembled to be used either static or spinning. It is made from the highest quality metal without protrusions or edges to catch yourself on. The pole is fully adjustable, can fit a variety of ceiling heights and can hold an incredible amount of weight. After popping my X-Pole

Tracy shows her X-Pole factor together, I installed it between the ceiling and floor in my lounge. It has a generously wide base so as not to mark the ceiling and give solidity and stability, so no matter how hard I throw my carrot-cakefuelled self at it, it doesn’t rock or wobble. My intention was to start by increasing my upper body strength and core, as my arms are by far the weakest part of my body and something I have always struggled with. My vegetarian diet makes it difficult to consume enough protein to build my muscles without taking supplements, and a lack of calcium as a child has left me with weak

bones; so this was certainly going to be a challenge for me! Having never climbed a pole before I realised very quickly the two biggest factors that I would have to overcome: slippery palms that stop me from holding myself still; and the ability to grip and support my body weight with just my hands - my forearms and biceps were burning for days! I started by trying to hold myself off the floor for as long as possible to build the strength in my wrists and arms before giving a few moves a go, from touching my toes on the ceiling to trying to do the splits. The benefits of pole fitness may not be obvious, but having a twirl not only burns calories, it sculpts a strong and toned body, improves flexibility, and helps to develop strong bones and connective tissues for mobility. It also strengthens

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Tracy Kiss

Kiss & tell

the hand muscles to reduce the chances of developing repetitive strain injury, promotes blood flow to the heart, develops abdominal muscles to assist women in easier, less painful childbirth and gives you the confidence to push yourself and achieve the body of your dreams. It’s also a lot of fun for all ages and abilities, men and women alike, and can have a dramatic effect on your health and wellbeing. l Read Tracy’s blog at: www.tracykiss.com or follow her on: Twitter: @kisstracy4 Facebook: /TheTracyKiss

Thai Orchid Massage and Spa www.thai-orchid-massage-and-spa.webs.com Traditional Thai Massage, Swedish Massage, Aromatherapy Body Massage, foot massage, herbal hot compress, back, head & neck massage 1 hr Aromatherapy/Swedish Full Body Massage £40 1 hr Traditional Thai Massage £45

Reflexions Health & Leisure Centre

Tel: 01296 330311 Mobile: 07587 172659 Buckingham Road, Watermead, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP19 0FY

Reflexology for adults and children Ailments which can benefit from reflexology sessions include:

Headaches and migraines l Stress & anxiety Digestive problems l Menstrual problems l Tiredness & fatigue l Aches & Pains l l

I’m an experienced Reflexologist treating all ages and a wide variety of ailments in my treatment room at Great Kimble. I also work two days a week in Special Need Schools in Buckinghamshire.

Tel: Rebecca Holmes on 07713355428 Email: rebeccaholmes7@gmail.com website:www.chilternhillstherapies.com

Your Local Consultants: Rachel B - 07718 742006 Leeanne F - 07983 093300 Kirsty F - 07538 827623 Tanya C - 07900 806169 Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Inspired for free at TLC! J

BETTER WAY TO GET ACTIVE THAME LEISURE CENTRE

A BETTER WAY TO GET ACTIVE

Summer Workshops Stagecoach Aylesbury 27-31 July Peter Pan (Age 4-8), Beauty & The Beast (Age 8-18) aylesbury@stagecoach.co.uk 01296 747 758 Stagecoach Thame 17-21 August Little Red Hoody (Age 6-18) thame@stagecoach.co.uk 01865 763767

DAY NE S* E O PAS FRE UEST G

cil

DAY NE S* E O PAS FRE UEST G

your child take swimming lessons uly 4th (12noon-5pm) is before your holiday? Come and have the date to mark in your a FREE assessment to ensure that diaries this year! They may be celebrating Independence your child starts at the right stage. Day in the USA then, but in Thame • Tai Chi*: (Time TBC) A FREE workshop introducing the basics of you can liberate yourself from a Tai Chi sedentary lifestyle or find the • Rusty Racquets*: inspiration to take up a new sport or activity by trying (Time TBC) Used to play some great FREE taster Badminton? Feel a bit rusty? Why not come sessions at Thame Leisure and take up this FREE Centre. Activities will include: opportunity • Mega Class*: 1:30-3pm • Soft Play: 12noon-4pm FREE Mega Class - includes Our soft play inflatable will be available FREE of charge for a mixture of 3 studio classes toddlers to try. Parent / guardian • Gym Trials*: 12noon-5pm Everyone can benefit from exercise, Fancy joining the gym but not too supervision is required during this whatever your age, whatever your ability. sure it’s for you? Come and give it a activity. *Activities need to be pre-booked go, FREE of charge For more information and toand claim yourtoguest are subject availability. • General Swim: FREE swim, pass, visit 1pm-3pm www.better.org.uk/thame l To book any of these sessions or bring all the family for more details call: 01844 215607 • Swimming see: www.better.org.uk/thame or THAME LEISURE CENTRE Assessments*: email: thame@gll.org Everyone can benefit from exercise, 12noon-2pm. whatever yourThe age, whateverThame your ability. Leisure Centre, Summer is information coming, andOxford Road, Thame, For more to claim your guest www.better.org.uk/thame Oxfordshire, OX9 2BB whypass, notvisit have

Fun, creative, educational classes in singing, dance and drama for age 4-18

Book Now - Limited Places!

and book an induction prior to use. Booking is essential for racquet sports and group exercise, and is subject to availability. Only one named person In partnership with non members. Centre and swim safely rules apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to capacity. We reserve the right to e Limited), a charitable social enterprise. Registered address: Middlegate House. The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX IPS Registered No. 27793, District Council

*Customers using the gym must complete a pre exercise questionnaire and book an induction prior to use. Booking is essential for racquet sports and group exercise, and is subject to availability. Only one named person per pass, use for one day only up until the date specified. Only valid to non members. Centre and swim safely rules apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to capacity. We reserve the right to refuse entry. Better is a registered trademark of GLL (Greenwich Leisure Limited), a charitable social enterprise. Registered address: Middlegate House. The Royal Arsenal, London SE18 6SX IPS Registered No. 27793, Inland Revenue Charity No. XR43398

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28/04/2015 15:04

Children’s Rock n Roll and Disco Freestyle for Absolute Beginners, Saturday mornings in Wing Village Hall starts th Saturday 19 September Adult Ballroom & Latin for Absolute Beginners, Wednesday evenings in Wing Village Hall at 9:15pm till 10:15pm starts th on 16 September Line Dancing Monday morning in Longueville Hall, Newton Longville, Absolute Beginners at 10:00am- 11:30am, th Improvers at 11:30am – 1pm starts on 14 September

info@adrianmarshschoolofdance.com 01908 393315 079-069-88880 Adrian & Sara Marsh M.IDTA

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Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

With the beautiful Chilterns Hills right on our doorstep, Rennie Grove Hospice Care is inviting us all to dig out our walking boots and get out to enjoy our stunning countryside, while raising money to support local patients and families by taking on the Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge...

s in previous years, Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge participants have a choice of either a five, nine or 18 mile sponsored walk through the Chilterns, taking in Whiteleaf Cross, Coombe Hill and Ivinghoe Beacon, with all routes starting and finishing at Princes Risborough School. “The choice of distances means there’s something for everyone, so the whole family can enjoy a day out, including the dog,” says Gillian Barnett, Director of Fundraising and Marketing at Rennie Grove Hospice Care. “We live in such a scenic area you don’t 3Ps_A4_poster_2015:Layout 1 16/04/2015 16:10 Page 1

really need an excuse to get out and enjoy the countryside but if you can raise money for a great local cause at the same time, there’s a double feelgood factor.” All walkers will experience the first two peaks by completing the five mile route from Princes Risborough to Wendover. Here, there will be a barbecue offering everyone the chance to purchase a tasty burger and refuel, before the five mile entrants return by bus to their cars - buses kindly provided by Arriva again this year. The nine mile walkers will then be bussed to Tring to complete the additional four miles and climb the third peak

k l a h C e h t k l a W

5, 9 or 18 mile sponsored walk along the Ridgeway Registered Charity Number: 1140386

Sunday 13 September 2015 www.renniegrove.org/chilterns3peaks

01442 820740 Adult: £20, child (5 –16): £10 Under 5s are free

Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge

Walkers break to enjoy the view from one of the peaks

- Ivinghoe Beacon. Transport will again be provided back to Princes Risborough School. Those taking on the ultimate challenge of the 18 mile route - which proves to be the most popular year after year - will continue walking from Wendover after the barbecue, to complete the entire route on foot before catching a bus back to their cars. “We’re extremely grateful to Arriva for supporting us again by providing the buses and to their drivers who give up their own time to take participants - including dogs - back to their cars at the school,” says Gillian. “We really couldn’t host the event without them! “Last year, we had a fantastic turn out with 700 walkers, raising more than £40,000. “This year we’re once again encouraging those taking part to raise as much money as possible, either by asking friends, colleagues or family to sponsor them, or by holding other fundraising events like coffee mornings, cake sales or car washes.”

Rennie Grove is marking 30 years of caring in 2015, and the numbers of patients needing the charity’s services is predicted to rise steeply over the coming years. “Less than 15% of our costs are funded by the NHS and so the support of the local community is vital if we are to meet the demand for our care in the future,” says Gillian. “Every penny you raise helps ensure we can continue to offer our 24/7 responsive Hospice at Home nursing service and other support services, which allow patients the choice to be cared for at home, safe in the knowledge that both they and their families will receive the help they need. Please sign up and get fundraising to help us carry on caring.” Registration for the Chilterns 3 Peaks Challenge costs just £20 for adults and £10 for children (anyone aged 5 to 17 years old), with under 5s going free. For more information, please visit: www. renniegrove.org/chilterns3peaks or call: 01442 820740.. lRennie Grove Hospice Care, Website: www.renniegrove.org Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

l Column: Read all about it! Book reviews by The Book House, Thame

Colouring, mermaids, dogs and marriage

ummer is here and to the dog-owners amongst us, it’s payback time - after months of battling wind and rain, suddenly those canine airings are more carefree, less inhibited by waterproofs, wellies and thick socks. Time, we feel, to break out from our mundane routine, from the wellworn winter circuit. Countryside Books have just published a new guide to help with that process of liberation: The Chilterns - A Dog Walker’s Guide by Ruth Paley has 20 tried and tested circular walks with plenty of opportunities for dogs to roam safely off lead. Varying in length from 2.5 miles to 5.5 miles, the routes provide a fantastic introduction to the stunning countryside we have on our doorstep. All the walks include ‘dog factors’ such as livestock, stiles and even nearest vets. Dog-friendly

pubs and cafes are also noted, so no more excuses - off you go!

Searching for a less energetic activity? Colouring books for adults are the latest trend - and good fun too! Now we’re finally allowed to join in… There are lots of wonderful colouring books available but A Line Around England has caught our eye. This little hardback has line drawings of many of England’s most familiar landmarks, be they geological (Cheddar Gorge) prehistoric (Stonehenge) or architectural (Tower Bridge) and as such also makes a great gift for foreign visitors of all ages - if you can bear to part with it! We’ve just read Lorali by Laura Dockrill and we love it! The perfect summer read, this beautifully written first novel is a must for young

adults. It threads its way, switching between the main characters of mermaids and pirates, sirens and skin traders, three boys from Hastings and one extraordinary girl: Lorali. Even the Sea appears as a character in its own right. On the eve of Rory’s 16th birthday he discovers a naked girl under Hastings pier. More surprising Lorali is on the run: from the sea, from her past and from her destiny. But it’s not only freak weather battering the Sussex town. Other strangers begin appearing. Who are the sharp-dressed, suited and booted Abelgare boys, with their ship shaped like a Tudor mansion? Why has a mermaid been spotted swimming up the Thames, demanding to see the Prime Minister? Why are sea monsters moving again, after aeons in the deep? And who are the Cavities? Colourful, raw, brave, rich and fantastical - this tale of first love is not for the faint-hearted. Finally - the children are busy

with their colouring books, the dog has been aired, it’s time for a rattling good read: Us by David Nicholls (author of One Day) fits the bill perfectly… Douglas and Connie’s twenty year marriage seems to have ended – or at least so it seems to Connie. Douglas, however, is determined to win back the love of his wife and the respect of their teenage son Albie. He is going to achieve these goals by organising the holiday of a lifetime – he has already booked the hotels, bought the tickets, planned (and even printed) the itinerary for a modern ‘Grand Tour’ of the great art galleries of Europe. How could he fail? You will laugh (and cry) at the results... “I honesty can’t imagine loving a novel much more” The Sunday Times. l The Book House, 93 High Street,

Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3HJ Tel: 01844 213032 anybook@thebookhousethame.co.uk www.thebookhousethame.co.uk Open Mon-Sat: 9am-5.30pm

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l Column: Catherine Stoker Learning process

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Preparing for step up in September Independent education consultant Catherine Stoker’s ‘10 things to do this summer to prepare your child for senior day or boarding school in September’...

amilies across the UK are breathing a sigh of relief. July means another education milestone has been successfully navigated. Senior school entry exams are done and dusted for another year and places for September are confirmed. On the flip-side, the summer holiday now looms with the challenge of settling into a new school environment at the end. Moving from the nurturing environment of prep school to the wider world of senior school can be a little daunting for some. Here are 10 tips to prepare your child over the summer, so they are ready to hit the ground running in the larger, more independent, hectic environment at senior school. Keep their brain ticking over with reading books from the local library,

Look over the extra-curricular programme, discussing which have most appeal. Planning school runs and other family commitments will be easier if you have an idea of when school commitments may be. Request email and phone numbers are circulated amongst form or house groups. Make contact with other families to arrange joint activities over the summer. Starting a Catherine Stoker new school alongside familiar faces Learning process is far less daunting. Gradually increase independence, visits to art galleries and museums, for example catching the bus to doing puzzles, playing scrabble, the local shopping centre to meet subscribing to online maths friends for a couple of hours. programmes etc. Be firm on time-keeping and give Review joining information now. advice about keeping themselves Return forms in plenty of time. There may be first-come-first-served and valuables safe. Encourage your child to act responsibly and solve timetabling choices to make, such problems themselves. as which extra language or musical If boarding for the first time, instrument to take up, or booking in practise housekeeping skills such a mouthguard fitting. Run through the pupil handbook as keeping a tidy bedroom, keeping track of possessions, changing a together to establish daily routine and rules. Getting into trouble in the duvet cover and putting clothes into the laundry daily. first few weeks will be a set-back in Buy new uniform as soon as is the settling in process.

o t to ly o n p It’s to ap es s e lat cour for

practical, bearing in mind summer growth spurts. Leaving this until the last week of the holiday means items are more likely to be out of stock and the shops will be insanely busy with those doing everything at the last-minute. Name everything clearly and securely, including techy gadgets, chargers, trainers and in particular sports kit, which often tends to disappear. If starting a new sport such as lacrosse, hockey or rugby, book a pre-season summer course to get to grips with some of the skills before term starts. This will boost confidence and give them a headstart in September. l Catherine Stoker is Managing Director

of the Independent Education Consultants. Is there a chance you may need some help with making the right decisions when results time approaches this August? Their friendly, professional team of education consultants can help with UCAS Clearing and planning for re-takes. Why not save the contact details now, in case you need some expert advice over the summer. Tel: 01865 522066, or email Claire via: consultants@ independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

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Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Interiors Edition: be a colour aficionado

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Image: Abigail Ahern | 0207 354 8181 www.abigailahern.com

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

This is about pushing boundaries, breaking rules and being Charles Huntington Flooring unapologetic for going off grid. Transform your home from drab to fab with sophisticated colour combinations... •Expert Advice Charles Huntington Flooring here is no doubt a degree of fear colour combos use 60-20-10-10).

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Step inside by Polly Gibbs

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Images: Abigail Ahern | 0207 354 8181 www.abigailahern.com Continued from page 29

edge and verve the combinations have to be unpredictable, intensely bold and definitely not safe. Gone are the days of sticking to be best to avoid those that jar unless you’re a magnolia, this is all about impact. Try dark fan of drama! If you invite too many of the same type it’ll be too loud or too quiet, too few grey and chartreuse, aubergine and lime, khaki and red, indigo and teal, taupe and it flops, and we all know how it goes if they pink, charcoal and gold, aqua and chocolate. don’t get along. So, before you commit to any combinations give this neat little trick a go for Note how a dark is teamed with a bright? It’s colour confidence that lasts. really important that a space feels positive and exciting and this pop of bright prevents the scheme from being oppressive. The ‘Box Test’ - paint the inside of an empty box in a single colour and view it over Combinations are virtually infinite, but several days, in different weather conditions, from sunny to grey and also under artificial not every one will work out. A colourwheel light. The reason I suggest a box rather then a can help to cross check (try the BBC online version, under the section on colour: www.bbc. patch on the wall is because the same colour co.uk/homes/design/), though I wouldn’t get will look different on opposing surfaces. This way offers a true sense of how the colour will too hung up on the science, rather trust your behave in a three dimensional space. Note how instincts. As a fail-safe you can always refer to the colour changes, often quite dramatically, as nature, fashion or food for inspiration. the underlying pigments reflect the different Next, start placing your favourite boxes light conditions (greys can appear mauve, pinks can appear peachy, etc). Use more boxes together and whittle it down to three or four that really work together, remembering to experiment with lots of colours - forget rules, trends, if it’s ‘you’, what your friends the dinner party analogy! The result is your will think, and just play. For an interior with true style, unpretentious and honest. It will

transcend time, trends or fashion, and the colours may well be a surprise. Now for the percentage bit: pick one colour to be the 70%. This will cover all or most of the walls, either in paint or wallpaper, so you need to love it. It could be the quietest colour, keeping the more dominant characters to add spice, or you may be confident enough for the reverse, reserving quieter colours for the accents. The next choice is the accent colour forming 20% in lovely upholstery, curtains, a statement rug or lampshades for example. Then for the punch, 10% of punctuating colour with a kick. Think vases, cushions, art, books, flowers or fruit. Achieve a cohesive rhythm by repeating the palette in adjoining rooms, adjusting the intensity according to the function of the room. This is called flow and is the essence of how a space makes us feel. Welcome to the wonderful world of design. l Polly is an award-winning designer, Decorex100 Interiors Influencer and Amara Interiors Blog Award Finalist 2014. Discover her blog at www.coco-design.co.uk/blog.

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by Cathy Soughton

Monuments

obelisk which was most probably designed by James Gibbs, one of Britain’s most influential architects, best known for the imposing St Martin in the Fields church in Trafalgar Square and the Radcliffe Camera in Oxford. here can you find a 50 The estate remained in the Gore foot high obelisk known family until 1786 when it was sold locally as Nell Gwyn’s to Sir Drummond Smith a London monument, close to banker who refurbished the interior a neoclassical portico (porch), both and remodelled the park in the fashion nearly 300 years old? The answer may popularised by Capability Brown. be closer than you think as they are A Manchester textile magnate both in Park Wood within walking bought the mansion in 1823 and from distance of Tring town centre. the late 1830s Nathan Rothschild Tring Park originally belonged to rented it as his country estate. Tring Mansion now the Tring Park Lionel Rothschild subsequently School for the Performing Arts. The bought it in 1872 as a wedding present mansion itself was built in 1682/3 for for his son Nathan ‘Natty’ who made Henry Guy, Secretary of the Treasury significant changes to the mansion. and a favourite of King Charles II, Natty’s son Walter is best known for to a design by the famous architect opening a zoological museum in the Sir Christopher Wren. When William grounds of the estate. A passionate and Mary came to the throne in 1699, zoologist he kept a menagerie of Henry was sent to the Tower of wild animals that roamed Tring Park London accused of accepting bribes including wallabies, cassowaries, and was forced to resign from the quaggas and rheas. government. Sir William Gore, Lord The obelisk was constructed from Mayor of London subsequently bought red brick covered with a limestone the house in 1705. In the 1720s the ashlar and topped with a ball finial. park and woodland were laid out by Known locally as ‘Nell Gwyn’s garden designer Charles Bridgeman Monument’, it was said to have been and incorporated formal woodland erected in honour of Charles II’s rides or paths radiating out from the

Tring Park Wood

Obelisk in Tring Park Woods

Portico famous orange-selling mistress who, allegedly, was entertained by the King at Tring Mansion. However since Nell and the King had both died long before the obelisk was built this seems doubtful. Extravagant ornamental garden features such as follies and monuments became fashionable in this period amongst wealthy country landowners and William Gore probably just followed the trend.

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Not far from the obelisk is the grand ionic four columned stone portico which is all that now remains of a larger summer house or temple. Built of painted stonework it features angular scrolls below an ornate triangular roof. Unfortunately most of the structure was demolished comparatively recently, when a new road up to Wigginton was constructed to run close behind the portico. Park Wood is now managed by the Woodland Trust and work has been undertaken recently to restore part of Charles Bridgeman’s 1720s design by clearing some of the scrub and trees which had obscured some of the vistas of the mansion from King Charles Ride (part of the Ridgeway National Trail) and by replanting a new circle of trees in line with the original design. Whilst Walter Rothschild’s wallabies and cassowaries have long since gone, it is still a lovely place to take a stroll with unexpected treasures just waiting to be discovered. l Cathy Soughton is a professional genealogist and architectural historian providing family history and house history research. Tel: 01296 624845 Email: soughton@btopenworld.com Web: www.bucksresearch.co.uk

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Homestyle

by Charlotte Bolton

Outdoor living

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Homestyle

Charlotte Bolton

With summer in full swing, it’s time for alfresco entertaining, soaking up the sun (hopefully!), and generally making the most of lazy weekends outside. Yay!!! Time to get your outside space looking fab, drag out the barbecue and explore some ideas for brightening up your table...

ou might have everything organised already but if you need some lastminute ideas here’s a few quick and easy garden style updates. Add colour in the garden with bold paint... Create colour effects through your garden - smaller projects can add delightful pops of colour and it only takes one to really bring your garden to life - Warm terracotta and deep reds conjure up sun-baked days, whereas silvery whites, blues and greys give a brighter, bolder holiday feel. Shades of yellow and bright green blend into the background more, but still add splashes of brightness. • Paint old flower pots in bright colours. Stripes or spots will vary the design - quick and cheap and colour throughout the year. • Sheds - Give a new lease of life to that brown garden shed with a seaside inspired paint palette of blue and natural colours. Update garden furniture with a quick lick of paint. Metal tables and chairs or worn out garden troughs will look brand new with a bit of TLC. Go bold with bright colours or minimalistic with shades of blue and green.

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A brightly painted shed can make a lovely feature • Painting garden rocks is fun with the kids. Get hold of medium to large rocks and copious amounts of bright coloured paints and unleash your imagination. These can border a garden water feature or create a family tree in the garden with a rock representing each member of the family! • Green or wood-coloured boundary walls or fences give the impression of disappearing into the surrounding greenery, making your garden look bigger. For outdoor paints try Homebase, B&Q and B&M in Aylesbury. Get creative with pretty lighting and accessories - Dress up your patio or decking area with pretty bunting or paper baubles for instant colour. Outdoor lighting is great for setting the mood; LED lights, lanterns, solar lights, fairy and tealights all look fab. You can make certain areas a real focal point by backlighting them with spotlights or tealights. Liven your furniture up too with a few colourful throws and cushions... or even put a rug down on your decking. A few simple touches really make a difference. Brighten your eating area with funky tableware - Ssimple touches

Left: colourful seating and baubles Right: fire pit can transform a plastic table into a scene fit for a fiesta! Choose a patterned runner and add bright glassware and crockery (plastic tableware is easier so there are no breakages!) for instant colour. For a particularly fun, tropical-themed look this summer add flamingo-patterned cups plates and glasses, straws and ice moulds (all available from Debenhams and Bhs)! For garden lighting and accessories try B&Q, Homebase & B&M Home in Aylesbury. Tesco, M&S, Bhs, Poundland and B&M Home all sell garden accessories and lighting as do most of our local garden centres. Break out the barbie - No British summer is the same without a barbecue, rain or shine! Your barbecue can make all the difference though. Do you want charcoal grilling or a fuss-free gas model? Cooking on charcoal creates that delicious authentic barbecue flavour and models start at less than £50, depending on the amount of grilling space and any extra features. Gas barbecues usually have automatic ignition, so you can start cooking your feast in minutes, and the heat is more controllable, so food will cook more evenly with less

chance of burning. If you choose one with multiple burners, you’ll be able to cook various items at different temperatures. Plus, if you miss the charcoal flavour, you can add a smoking box and wood chips for that barbecue taste. There’ll be no ashes to clear away, unlike charcoal, leaving only drip trays and grills to be cleaned. You can find a gas powered model for under £100. Firepits: When the sun goes down and you’re finishing off your barbecue feast keep warm (and your garden lit) with a fire pit. A fire pit or fire hole can vary from a pit dug in the ground to an elaborate gas burning structure of stone, brick, and metal. They are designed to contain fire and prevent it from spreading. A chiminea or fire-pit is the perfect addition to your garden. Our weather is temperamental at the best of times, so adding extra warmth to your outdoor space will let you make the most of it... For Barbecues and Firepits try B&Q, Homebase, B&M Home, and Garden Centres. North Mill Stoves in Bledlow have firepits too. l Contact Charlotte at: www.reallivingspaces.co.uk or email: cjb@charlottebolton.com

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l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Do try this at home! B

Joe Swift at work

reak the rules in your garden, says TV’s Joe Swift Usually the RHS Chelsea Flower Show heralds the start of summer - but with the weather that has welcomed in June I’m starting to doubt that. Nevertheless, as usual, the people who create the show gardens at Chelsea have managed to miraculously produce stunning showpieces in a few weeks. But while most of us have neither the time, space or resources to create an escarpment in our back garden, there are plenty of smaller ideas that we can create at home. BBC Gardeners’ World presenter Joe Swift was rather taken with the gardens that looked more

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achievable at Chelsea this year. ‘I liked the Occitane Garden - it was a mixture of plants and weeds, if that doesn’t sound too rude! And Dan Pearson’s Chatsworth Garden also showed this relaxed gardening style. There were things growing into the edges. This is something everyone can do - letting plants self seed, enjoying plants in bud, in flower and past flowering. ‘You don’t have to prune stuff to within an inch of its life - it’s very easy to turn a shrub into a lollipop that way! Selectively prune - cut out a branch here and there - you don’t always have to follow the textbook.’ Joe was also pleased to see lots of yellow at the show, which is traditionally the home of purple and

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Esy Wood Wall pink planting. ‘There were some zingy euphorbias, and Asphodeline lutea, a yellow plant with an upright spike of flowers. I like yellow - it goes with foliage, and works well with brickwork and gravel and paving. Another nice plant was a rusty Iris - called ‘Kent Pride’ which was used in quite a lot of gardens.’ Joe Swift uses FLEXISEQ, the drug-free treatment for gardeners and other people wanting to ease joint pain and stiffness associated with osteoarthritis - www. treatmentsdirect.com/shop/flexiseq

Strawberries and Lily of The Valley planted in cracks on a rock Ideas to steal from Chelsea If you didn’t get to go to Chelsea, here are a few ideas for you to try in your own plot. And remember there are still plenty of garden shows on over the summer, both locally and further afield. Easy wood wall Wood offcuts have been cleverly and simply used here to create a wall - perfect for a raised border or just creating a low divide Continued on page 38

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FarolLtd @FarolLtd Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Winding path

Table decorations Continued from page 37

Relaxed planting be used as a divider, fence or to support plants.

in your garden. Fill gaps with compost and plant easy growers Mind the gap such as ageratum or Mind Your Own Gaps in paving, rocks or Business (Soleirolia) anywhere in the garden can be used for planting. On previous page, wild Easy fence/plant supports strawberries and tiny lily-of-theThese simple structures can valley add a softened edge to the be made from sticks, bamboo or rocks. anything else you can find. You might need a Scout or Guide to Winding path do the lashing for you! They can A winding path is so much more

Westfield

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Vale Life : Jun/Jun 2015

interesting than a straight one, whether it is made from decking, pavers, gravel or bricks.

together - grasses, perennials, shrubs - and leave them to create their own natural shapes.

Table decorations You don’t have to use garden planters - these lovely Moroccaninspired dishes work well as makeshift pot holders - perfect for a summer party or barbecue.

l Naomi Mackay is a freelance journalist and publisher of a new website for parents of primary-aged boys at www.itsaboything.net. The site includes ideas on getting boys connected with education, expert hints on raising boys, book reviews and ideas, days out, toys, games, gadgets, hobbies and competitions.

Relaxed planting Plant your favourite plants all

The gardeners garden show W

hether you have a courtyard garden, a window box or a large country garden, there will be something for every outdoor space at the 6th Woburn Abbey Garden Show on June 27th & 28th. Known as ‘The Gardeners Garden Show’ visitors get the chance to learn new gardening skills from demonstrations and talks by experts such as Pippa Greenwood, Frances Tophill, Martin Fish and Alistair Fraser. Plus over 90 exhibitors including specialist nurseries, garden care and outdoor living exhibitors will be selling rare and unusual plants and garden and lifestyle items - luckily there’s a handy complimentary plant and heavy good crèche and transfer to car service too. You can watch demonstrations by BBC’s Big Allotment Challenge floral expert, Jonathan Moseley and The Duke and Duchess’ private gardens will be open to

giving visitors a chance to explore a previously unseen area. The Food & Gift Hall will be selling the Best of British produce and unique gift items, plus the best of Bedfordshire produce. There’s Micro pigs; arts and crafts; a floristry and horticultural exhibits, competition; a Local Schools Wheelbarrow Garden Competition; Live music from Woburn Sands Band; plus dining opportunities at the Sculpture Gallery, Duchess Tea Rooms and, new for 2015, afternoon tea in the North Court. Woburn Abbey’s RHS qualified gardeners will offer free guided tours of the gardens throughout the weekend, giving visitors a behind the scenes look at their award-winning restoration projects. Tickets for the Woburn Abbey Garden Show are available to purchase online or available on the gate. For more information, visit www.woburnabbey.co.uk

‘The Art of Wood Burning’

JØtul “fighting the cold since 1853”

The most comprehensive showroom in Oxfordshire Over 75 stoves and 15 under fire on display Kiln dried and Eco logs

Jøtul – logo

HETAS registered. Ample free parking. Boundary Business Park, Wheatley Road, Garsington, OX44 9EJ Showroom open Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm For technical advice it is advisable to make an appointment

01865 361505 www.manorhousestoves.co.uk Featured stoves from JØtul Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Thame Office Launch To celebrate 30 years in business, we are excited to be launching our new look office and branding. Our Thame office has completed an extensive refurbishment and our branding has been refreshed. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent we look forward to welcoming you to our newly renovated offices.

Residential sales Residential lettings Estate & block management Commercial Land & development Planning Finance

1 A4

B445

A418

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55 North Street, Thame, Oxfordshire OX9 3BH Tel 01844 260909 Email thame@martinkemps.com

www.martinkemps.com 40

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

ad Oxfo r d Ro

Nor

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For a free market appraisal, contact us now

Hig hS t

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B4 45

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Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Martin Kemps is celebrating 30 years in business. The respected local firm is not resting on its laurels though and has been updating and refurbishing its Thame and Aylesbury offices while refreshing branding with a stylish new contemporary look. “The website is next,” says MD Richard Foster...

hen Martin Kemp, now Rob Sims and Richard Foster outside the newly retired, established his refurbished Martin Kemps Thame office company selling houses and Photograph by Chris Harper FBIPP land, back in 1985, it was based in George Street, Aylesbury and the property world was a very different place. Estate agents did not have websites, homes were a lot more affordable and the rental sector was significantly smaller. Robert Sims set up the company’s residential lettings and management department in 1987 and Martin Kemps became one of only two agents who were letting and managing property in Aylesbury at that time. In 1990 Robert Sims became a director of the company and helped establish a commercial lettings and sales department and in 1997 Martin Kemps set up a block management business, to manage leasehold schemes for their landlord clients and resident management companies. Martin Kemp retired in 2011 and Robert Sims took over running the company which then, in we manage both residential new meeting room has been added to the 2012, joined forces with another and commercial properties. contemporary office space. independent local property firm, “We have developed “We decided to do this to coincide with the To celebrate 30 years in business, we are excited to be launching our new look office and the Meadows Partnership, owned a strong client account firm’s 30th year in business,” says Richard. branding. Our Thame office has completed an extensive refurbishment and our branding and run by father and son Eric and capability within our “We have also refreshed our branding to has been refreshed. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, let or rent we look forward to Richard Foster, who both have business which has also create a more contemporary image that better welcoming you to our newly renovated offices. many years experience dealing with proven a useful addition to reflects our modern approach and a new look residential sales, lettings and block our property management website is on the way too. management for private individuals, The new Martin Kemps logo business. “The residential sales market in Thame corporate clients and charitable organizations. “We believe in the importance of training and the surrounding villages is very strong. Martin Kemps has evolved substantially and are keen to continue investing in the The area is an attractive place to live, it’s very over the years but as an independently owned ongoing professional development of our popular and prices continue on an upward business has retained its founding values staff and to ensure we are all fully up to date trend. We have constant enquiries from buyers of integrity and honesty with a focus on with the latest changes in market conditions and have established an extensive database of excellence. With new offices at 26 Temple and legislation. prospective purchasers.” Street, Aylesbury and a second branch in “As a company we want to set the highest If you are looking to buy, sell, rent or sales or commercial property in Thame, Martin Kemps is now a multi-practice professional standards. There is no substituteResidential lease residential property agent, which sells, lets and manages for experience and continued training. the Thame or Aylesbury area contact Martin Residential lettings residential and commercial property and “This is particularly important in areas Kemps Property Services as below. Estate & block specialises in Estate and Block Management such as the private rented sector where management services. the legislative and regulatory framework l Martin Kemps, 55 North Street, Thame, “Operating both in the residential and is constantly evolving. We need to be able Commercial Oxfordshire, OX9 3BH Tel: 01844 260 909 commercial sectors and being able to provide to keep our landlord clients abreast of LandEmail: & development thame@martinkemps.com an integrated approach, has meant we are able these changes to protect them and their Web: www.martinkemps.com to deliver real value to our clients,” says MD investments.” Planning Richard Foster, “and it has enabled us to grow The company has just completed an l Martin Kemps, 26 Temple Street, Aylesbury, our business significantly. We have been able impressive renovation of its Thame office toFinance Buckinghamshire, HP20 2RQ to attract clients who invest in both sectors accommodate a marked growth in business. Tel: 01296 422171 and thus find it convenient to use us as a A new shop window is in evidence at the Email: aylesbury@martinkemps.com one-stop shop and we have clients for whom entrance on North Street, while inside a smart Web: www.martinkemps.com

Thame Office Launch

Vale Life : Jun/Jun 2015

Column: Down to business with Philippa Batting

Money is well spent in Bucks

ocally, most people will know that the Entrepreneurial Heart of Britain that is Buckinghamshire enjoys great rates of business start-ups and job creation, fantastic school performances that lead to the best educated workforce in the land, and delivers a return on investment from the government that dwarfs most others’. What about the external view though, particularly that of government? Politicians tend to be swayed by the financial impact of their decisions, and this is where lobbying based on research and evidence works. This is something that we at Buckinghamshire Business First regularly undertake, particularly in partnership with Buckinghamshire Thames Valley Local Enterprise Partnership, the body responsible for securing £53m of investment into the county in the form of Growth Deals from the government in the past year. Demonstrating and vocalising the needs of our ambitious business community significantly improves

Politicians tend to be swayed by the financial impact of their decisions our ability to secure funding for Buckinghamshire. The message can get watered down if success falters, which leads me on nicely to talk about the importance of business support. The results of a recent survey conducted by Close Brothers Asset Finance found that almost one third of small and medium sized

enterprises (SMEs) do not have a business plan and almost half of these do not believe it necessary to have one. Raw data is unfortunately hard to come by regarding the parallels between having a business plan and succeeding in business, though the authors of a 2010 study in the US found some proven evidence of this. Nearly 3,000 business owners were asked if they had completed a business plan and those that had were twice as likely to have secured a loan or investment capital, and 20% more likely to have grown their business. It is growth like this that strengthens Buckinghamshire Business First’s message to the government, and this is why we have a dedicated business support team that delivers expert, bespoke advice on a range of business areas, such as the need for a business plan. BBF works hard for every business in the county, because we believe that doing business in Buckinghamshire means never having to settle for second best,

Philippa Batting Down to business

and that everybody outside of the county should know about our strengths. If you want to become a member of Buckinghamshire Business First, it is completely free and takes five minutes. Visit www.bbf.uk.com for more details. If you are a member and need business support of any kind, contact BusinessSupport@bbf. uk.com or call: 01494 568941. l Philippa Batting is the Managing Director of Buckinghamshire Business First (BBF). The organisation, based in Saunderton, works to support and facilitate success within the business community and to create a dynamic environment in which local business can flourish. Membership is free - visit: www.bbf.uk.com for more information.

THE SANDERUM CENTRE

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▪ serviced offices ▪ virtual offices ▪ meeting rooms Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

l Column: Jonathan Vernon-Smith

Consumer Affairs

fieldstead insolvency Debt problems? Cash flow problems?

Award-winning BBC Three Counties presenter Jonathan Vernon-Smith extends his Consumer Hour to report for Vale Life Magazine on consumer issues that could effect you...

am becoming increasingly fed up with dealing with retailers right across Beds, Herts, Bucks and beyond who either don’t familiarise themselves with consumer law, or who deliberately attempt to pull the wool over their customer’s eyes. It makes it so important that we all understand the law as consumers. That way, when a retailer talks rubbish, we spot it straight away.

Creditors demanding payment? Demands from HM Revenue & Customs?

rights. Bear in mind, the retailer is at liberty to take into account usage you’ve had from a product before it breaks though. For example, if your four-year-old fridge blows up, the retailer could offer to replace it, but will ask for a contribution from you for the four years use you had from the previous model. For the first 6 months after

Pressure on the overdraft? Call us on 01296 433303 for a FREE initial consultation www.fieldstead.co.uk LEADING INDEPENDENT INSOLVENCY PRACTICE

J.T. RecoveRy SeRviceS I thought this month I would take the opportunity to explain ‘Statutory Rights’. You may have seen on a receipt or contract ‘This does not affect your statutory rights’. This means that anything the retailer has offered you (in terms of returns policy etc) does not change the things you’re entitled to by law. When you purchase any brand new goods or services in the UK you are protected by your ‘statutory rights’ (sale of goods act 1979). All goods must be: a) Fit for purpose b) Of ‘reasonable’ quality (based on the cost) c) Last for a reasonable amount of time (based on the cost) Therefore, if you buy (for example) a fridge for £300, it should last for a ‘reasonable’ amount of time. I would suggest a minimum of five years’ worth of ‘reasonable use’ before it blows up. If it develops a manufacturing fault at any time during that period, the retailer IS LIABLE! Any attempt to fob you off, should be met with a firm, but polite explanation of your consumer 44

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

purchase, it’s up to the retailer to prove that the fault with the item is NOT their responsibility. After the first 6 months it’s your responsibility. Therefore, my advice when dealing with an obstructive retailer, is to obtain an independent report to confirm that the product has a manufacturing fault, then ask the retailer to not only fix the problem, but also reimburse you for the cost of the report. It is also worth noting that when you first purchase an item, during the first four weeks you are entitled to return faulty goods and get a full refund. After this period of time, generally you will have to permit the retailer an opportunity to repair the item if they so wish. So, remember next time the manager of a shop says ‘oh sorry, there’s nothing we can do I’m afraid’. Tell them you understand your statutory rights and if they still fail to help, then call my team on 01582 637450 and I’ll have a little ‘word’ for you! l Listen to The JVS Show

weekday mornings from 9am on BBC Three Counties Radio: www.bbc.co.uk/threecountiesradio

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Meet & Mingle business network is an informal, affordable, fun group of sole traders and open minded people, who meet monthly for Thame business networking events at Contact: Maria Waskiel-Smit The Oxford Belfry Hotel. Please check website M: 07896 843352 for event dates. E: maria@meetandminglenetwork.co.uk

W: www.meetandminglenetwork.co.uk

w Tue, 7th July: The Oxford Belfry Hotel, 10am-12noon w Tue, 4th August: The Oxford Belfry Hotel, 10am-12noon

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

We are all used to printing on paper in 2D but a new generation of printers that print with plastic filament to create 3D models has arrived. Those innovative types at Cartridge World have been quick to embrace the new technology, adding a new third dimension to their services...

his is not the first time Vale Life has written about Martin and Sarah and their team at Cartridge World in Aylesbury. The couple have run their popular franchise at Parton Road for ten years now, refilling ink and laser cartridges and supplying businesses, organisations and the general public with ‘everything printing’ from ink to printers, paper, cartridges, toner, in-store printing (you can email a file or take a memory stick or CD of your artwork in) and lots of helpful advice and have developed and diversified their business along the way to offer additional print and business related services. Their Cartridge World Infinity subscription service provides a printer and unlimited ink from as little as £9.99 per month. Amazing! When your printer cartridges are empty, simply take them back and they replace them - as many times as you need! They look after the maintenance of the printer too. Any printer problems are put right as part of the service - you’ll never need to buy another printer again! Cartridge World also provides a flexible range of printing solutions to meet the needs of local businesses and organisations and reduce their printing costs. They conduct a ‘Print Audit’ - an inventory of all your printers - and identify how much you print on a monthly basis and how much your business spends annually. Following the review they

Above: 3D print technician Trevor and his model

can calculate a cost-effective fixed monthly fee for facilitating your printing, reducing your printing costs and making budgeting easier. They will optimise your print infrastructure, ensuring your business has the right size and mix of printers and then monitor and proactively manage all your printers, including the ongoing maintenance and repair of the printers, taking away all the worry and hassle and ensuring your printing is as cost effective and efficient as possible. They can also do a similar job with your photocopier requirements and have introduced a cost saving measure whereby you pay less for a copy that has less colour in it, rather than a fixed fee for colour copies no matter how much colour there is on the page. A new and exciting string has recently been added to the bow at Parton Road with the introduction of 3D Print World, offering affordable 3D printing, whether you wish to buy your own machine (finance packages available from £19.99 per month) or have the store print out your design. It is quite amazing to see the shapes and detail a 3D printer can model, from mini statues of the shop staff (see above) to parts for model cars and aeroplanes, to replacement

bits for domestic appliances, building designs and prototype modelling for engineering parts. The cost of printing out is minimal, from a few pence to a couple of pounds per item depending on size and complexity. A 3D printer, like this Hephaestos Prusa i3 pictured left is only £369. It comes in kit form so the fun starts with building it! 3D Print World can do this for you though, or you can attend a 3D printing course at Bucks UTC at reduced rates which takes you through building the i3. Pop into 3D Print World and see the printers in action. The knowledgable staff will be happy to explain how it all works and what the options are for doing your own 3D printing, or having them do some for you. l 3D Print World / Cartridge World - Aylesbury, 32 Parton Road, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1NG Tel:01296 434666 Email: enquiries@3dprint-world.co.uk Web: www.3dprintworld-aylesbury.co.uk Email: cwaylesbury@cartridgeworld.co.uk Web: www.cartridgeworld.co.uk Open: Mon-Sat: 9am-5.30pm

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Column: Small World with Robyn Bourne

Keep it in the family

aving recently returned from a glorious holiday in Croatia I was reminded just how easy, and important, it is to Keep Trade Local. We stayed in a small, independent boutique hotel in Dubrovnik. The hotel bought fish from the fisherman each day, got its meat delivered from a farmer further inland and supported the local markets by buying fruit and veg, daily. The food in the restaurant was fresh, delicious and actually tasted of something, whilst being reasonably priced. On our walk into the city we saw ‘bookers’ for local tourist companies, all earning their living by encouraging you to book with them for the tourist day trips. They were polite and friendly and not pushy. We could have booked direct with holiday companies, but how much of this money goes back into the local economy? We asked questions and got a feeling of what we were buying, as well as paying a lot less than

booking through a UK agent. One trip we did really emphasised how much can be done locally. We booked a day’s cycling tour with wine tasting. We were picked up by our guide and off we went. Journeying to our starting point the guide stopped a number of times to allow us to get photos of some very scenic shots, telling us about the history of where we were at the same time. On arrival we set off on our bikes to collect from the local restaurant our lunch (bread made by them that morning, cheese from a neighbouring farm and ham that had been bred and cured by them, lettuce and tomatoes grown on site) we then cycled to top up our water bottles directly from the wonderfully cold stream. A few kilometres later we were cycling through the vineyards that grew the grapes for the wine we were yet to taste, as well as figs and apricots that we were able to buy in Dubrovnik from market stalls. The wine was of course

Business Cards Leaflets Posters Brochures Roller Banners Stationery

local, and after the cycling, a well deserved treat. On our journey home our guide made a quick stop at the side of a road to buy us the sweetest strawberries I have ever tasted, warm and freshly picked that morning and sold by the man who had grown and picked them. We continued our journey home with me feeling very virtuous about all of the exercise that I had just done and trying to tot up how many more glasses of the very tasty local wine it would entitle me to when we drove past a retail park in the middle of nowhere with a Lidl. Just one signpost showing people that it was even there... the first, and only, sign of a multinational retailer during our trip. Dubrovnik is a thriving and picturesque city; it is also a busy sea port and is now party to cruise liners coming in and out every day. One day alone last year, so our taxi driver informed us, there was an influx of 25,000 people into the city.

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Robyn Bourne Small World

How important is it, therefore, for the locals to be able to tout their trade and ensure that they can make the most of the economic opportunities that are being presented to them. By doing this how many of us, without even realising it, are helping support local businesses and how can we take this idea home with us at the end of our holidays, as well as a very tasty bottle or two of red? l Robyn Bourne is the Development Manager for the Thames Valley region of the Federation of Small Businesses supporting 7,500 local members and helping them lobby on issues that are of importance to small businesses. www.fsb.org.uk

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Column: The Flo Show with Florence Grace

Skaters await park refurb

ay saw the beginning of the demolition process at Aylesbury Skate Park. This has been a long time coming in my opinion! The skate park is a buzzing social hub for the youths of Aylesbury, be them 5 or 25, skaters or bmx-ers or just a group of friends watching the ‘athletes’ do their thing, it is a popular place all year round. Unfortunately, the constant use of the park meant that it has deteriorated in quality since it opened in 2007, and has now had to be demolished. It’s not all bad news! The skate park will return at the end of July, brand new and fully refurbished, with bigger, better ramps and stair sets for the skaters to grind on, bmx-ers to bunny hop over and a safer environment for the youths to have fun. Additionally, it has meant an excellent opportunity for up and coming local business, Stoke Skate Company. Founded by Alex Healey of Stoke Mandeville, a 19-year-old

Alex Healey and some of his Stoke Skate Co. merchandise

Florence Grace The Flo Show

as they can. Stoke Skate Co. will be releasing a brand new T-shirt line and some exclusive skateboard decks in time for the opening of the new park, and you can check these out online at www. stokeskateco.com skater who has lived in Bucks all of his life, the business provides affordable yet high quality skate clothes, hardware and accessories. With the new skate park arriving at the peak of skating season, the demand for business from SSC has soared, and this is really great to see for a local business. When asked about the development of the park, Alex said “It’s brilliant to see the park being redone. It’s really overdue, and I

can’t wait to see the end result.” The park is set to be completed within the last week of July, leaving a whole month of (hopefully!) fabulous August weather for skaters, bmx-ers and scooter-ers to take advantage of the newly refurbished park and use it as much

Love from, Florence Grace. l Florence Grace lives in Aylesbury and blogs at: www.lovefromfg. blogspot.co.uk She is also a photographer and DJs for internet radio station BlinkFM (http://tunein.com/radio/BlinkFM-s188577/).

waitrose.com/thame

Community Matters Every month we give our time and money to local communities. We donate £1000 to be shared by three good causes that you choose.

Waitrose Thame Supporting the community Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Win tickets to Family Travel Show

he Family Travel Show is pleased to announce its inaugural event this autumn! Taking place at London’s Olympia, this exciting new show is the UK’s first exhibition completely dedicated to family travel adventures. Family holidays are precious memories in the making and a chance to spend that all important quality time together. Whether you’re looking for a trip to open your children’s eyes to the world and allow them to experience new destinations and cultures, or a relaxing and indulgent family break where all you need to do is enjoy each other’s company, this new event will provide you with hundreds of ideas to plan that perfect family break. Packed full of inspiration and information, the Family Travel Show will bring together the best specialist operators and family holiday providers all under one roof covering everything from all-inclusive luxury getaways, exciting cruise voyages, action-packed resorts and family-friendly villas, to intriguing adventures, thrilling ski holidays and incredible wildlife safaris. As well as meeting with an

excellent range of travel companies and taking advantage of their exclusive show-only offers, visitors are also invited to enjoy the show’s interactive features for all the family including an Explorers’ Corner, Incredible Holidays Theatre and an Around the World Theatre. The highlight of the show however is set to be the Family Travel Auditorium - bursting with travel ideas and practical advice from celebrity speakers, travel writers and bloggers, journalists, and family travel experts.

Pardon my English! A local dialect ‘Call My Bluff’ by Jacot de Boinod Can you guess the right definitions of the following words? 1) yet (Oxfordshire dialect) A) a small cavity in a rock B) a gate C) the lower part of a rainbow 2) ballyraggin’ (Hertfordshire dialect) A) continuous teasing B) to talk for the sake of talking C) a game that involves knocking on a door and then rushing away as the homeowner answers it

3) dout (Berkshire dialect) A) to put out a fire B) tawny, yellow tinged with red C) the swamp surface of a wet ploughed field 4) wuut (Berkshire dialect) A) the grown-out shoot of a stored potato B) a one-way peephole in a door C) a mole

l Adam Jacot de Boinod was a researcher for

the television series QI and is the author of The Meaning of Tingo and Other Extraordinary Words from around the World, published by Penguin Books. Having researched our rural dialect, collected so lovingly by Victorian lexicographers, he is setting a fun ‘Call-My-Bluff Quiz for Vale Life readers - mind your language now... ANSWERS: 1B) a gate. 2A) continuous teasing. 3A) to put out a fire. 4C) a mole

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

As the UK’s only event created purely for those looking for their next family adventure, the Family Travel Show is an essential date in every parent’s diary. The Family Travel Show takes place in London’s Olympia on 31st October-1st November 2015. Tickets cost £8 in advance or £12 on the door, under 16s are free. For full details and to book tickets please visit www.familytravelshow.com or call 0844 209 7360. (Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras). If you’d like to be in with the

chance of winning four tickets to The Family Travel Show, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Where is the show taking place? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by July 20th, 2015. l The Family Travel Show, London Olympia, Oct 31st-Nov 1st 2015, www.familytravelshow.com or call: 0844 209 7360

Win a royal jigsaw puzzle F

or those who enjoy quintessentially British landmarks and London’s iconic buildings, Gibsons, family run traditional puzzle and games company since 1919, has recently released this stunning 1,000 piece Buckingham Palace Jigsaw Puzzle. Have fun assembling this jigsaw of the Queen’s official birthday with the royal family and watch it come to life as you complete the challenging puzzle. The royal family has just welcomed a baby princess, so it’s the perfect time to put the pieces together and enjoy this glimpse behind the palace gates… If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning one of these fabulous royal jigsaw puzzles, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk What is our Queen’s new great

grand-daughter called? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by July 20th, 2015. The Buckingham Palace Jigsaw Puzzle is just one of Gibsons Britishthemed gifts. Go to: www.gibsonsgames.co.uk to see the Royal Babies and London Landmarks puzzles. And if you’re not a winner this time, the prize puzzle is available from Amazon and John Lewis for £12.99. l www.gibsonsgames.co.uk

Column: Penny Harper ‘Thoughts of a small town girl’

A true ferry tale

id I ever tell you about the time I got punched in the face by a disgruntled holidaymaker? It was the summer of 1997 and I was a fresh-faced Hull university student who’d just got her first holiday job, working for a Moroccan ferry company. I think on paper we were actually registered as mushroom pickers, so it wasn’t exactly a legitimate spell of employment. My boyfriend spotted the job on the French department notice board at Hull University and so a group of us ended up on a plane, to Spain, to speak French to Moroccans travelling home to Africa for the summer. At the port in Almeria we met with Rafa, our manager; Javier his assistant; office girls, Susannah and Christina whom the boys all fell instantly in love with, and a Sean Connery lookalike I’m not sure what he actually did. Rafa was highly amused to have a bunch of spotty teenagers working for him and when he’d finished outlining our duties he leaned across the table and said: “Just remember, it’s not Dover-Calais”. The first day was a doddle with a grand total of three cars to load and

us. One of Rafa’s best pieces of advice (frequently deployed) was that if a riot starts and cars are driving towards you, don’t be a hero. Over the three eight of us to direct them around the months we had several fairly major slalom of cones we had meticulously riots, usually caused by some bored laid out. With the ship docking early kid honking a car horn that then set morning and late at night, there was everyone else off. We had people little else to do the rest of the day threatening to jump into the water except sleep on the beach. This was after the ferry because they’d become going to be such a cushy number. The separated from their party. We watched second day we could hear the rumble stowaways, unable to continue clinging of commotion before we were halfway to the undercarriage of vans, drop and down the high street. What greeted us sprint across the car park, pursued at the port was most of North Africa by the Spanish police. We spent time and a big chunk of Europe too. It was working with the drugs dogs. I pulled absolute pandemonium. over a camper van that had a mum, Nick and I were in charge of dad and young son travelling through measuring cars. This was a precise art to Morocco. They turned out to be a carried out using a big stick. Everyone drug dealer, a prostitute he’d picked up tried to pay for a low car (1m 80cm or somewhere in Barcelona and a young under) when what they were actually boy they’d kidnapped along the way. driving was a house. My job was to walk So confident were they in their plan, up to said ‘house’, and tell them that I they hadn’t even bothered to conceal could see what appeared to be a giant, the small fortune in drugs they’d taped covered mushroom growing out the to the ceiling. Then there was the time top of their Renault 19, and they were we couldn’t move a family on from the going to have to pay a teensy-weensy car park. The dad was rolling around bit more. It never went down well. I on a rug with his family telling me he’d usually had to explain this whilst trying gorged himself on the ship and had to wrestle my carefully placed cone out indigestion. Turns out, he was having a from under their bonnet after they had heart attack. driven straight over the top of it rather One of my favourite memories was than wait patiently behind it. made when our colleague, Javier, grew But what a summer unfolded for impatient waiting for the forklift truck

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Penny Harper

Small Town

Girl

guy to arrive to load the ramps. We all watched as he drove the forklift straight off the side of the dock with an almighty ‘spla-doosh’. It was hands-down, simultaneously the best and worst job I’ve ever had in my life… so far. You never, ever know where a summer job’s going to take you and the friends you will make for life. How did I get punched in the face? I asked a big, burly Belgian-Moroccan to pay some more for the small apartment he was trying to pass off as a low car. If I take one thing from my Spanish adventure, it’s that I won’t make THAT mistake ever again.

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Column: Anna Webb‘Barking blonde’

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

It’s raining cats & dogs

ow neck and neck in popularity with around 10 million of each living in the UK, dog ownership has matched cat ownership in Britain for the first time. Back in the day, cats took pole position probably because they’re so much easier to look after in many ways. Also natural born mousers, they’ve proved themselves as useful pest controllers. I’ve never owned a cat before Gremlin my ‘street cat stray’ moved in with Molly (my Miniature Bull terrier) and I four years ago. I’d never really seen the point of owning a cat. Why bother when you can own a dog instead? Cats being independent creatures pays dividends If you work a nine to five, travel a lot and have a busy diary, a cat can cope. Dogs on the other hand are pack animals and need social lives. They take more time and are considered more of a commitment. Dogs

Gremlin and Molly shouldn’t be left for more than four hours at a time. They instinctively crave company, so it’s unfair to expect them to settle for less. Both cats and dogs are extremely good for your health. You’re set to live longer if you own a pet. Just being in a room with a

cat or dog lowers your blood pressure. A dog in the ‘office’ increases productivity and staff communication. The latest science about a cat’s purring suggests it lowers anxiety, promotes strong bone growth, boosts the immune system and more! Dogs are an antidote to our sedentary and digitally consumed lifestyles. Owning a dog means you have to get out at least twice a day. It’s a social experience, and once you’re part of the ‘canine club’ you’re hooked. What’s caused this doggy-boom? Potentially dogs offer greater companionship as you can take a trained dog with you almost anywhere. Apart from ‘walking the dog’, there’s plenty of doggy day outs and doggy sports like agility or flyball to get involved with. The ‘doggy-boom’ downside is that rescues are picking up the pieces of our ‘throwaway’ mentality. Whether it’s Stokenchurch dog rescue, or The

Anna Webb

Barking blonde Blue Cross in Lewknor, rescues are bursting at the seams. A couple asked me recently what breed would suit their lifestyles being at work all day. Trying to be as polite as possible, I suggested they get a cat instead... l Combining a psychology degree with

‘Naturopathic Healthcare & Natural Nutrition’, Anna Webb offers doggy life-coaching, training, natural health and diet advice. Anna contributes expert advice on national radio and TV and cowrites a weekly blog for The Independent (Barking Blondes). Her book ‘Barking Blondes’ co-written with Joanne Good is out now (Hamlyn). www.annawebb.info www.crendoncanines.com

106xx out of the dog house a5 1pp 2 25/10/2013 10:40 Page 1

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Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Column: Heather Jan Brunt ‘This farming life’

Fancy a cuppa vintage style?

raditional English afternoon tea, with delicate and exquisite fine bone china, a crisp white tablecloth, delectable tiny sandwiches with the crusts cut off, delicious cakes and indulgent scones with clotted cream on top has never really gone out of fashion. In fact it seems to have undergone a positive renaissance in recent years, with more and more people enjoying the afternoon treat with friends, family and loved ones. Posh venues all over the country offer afternoon tea in the exquisite surrounding of stately homes and listed buildings. But you don’t necessarily have to travel to enjoy this indulgent treat. You can enjoy it in the comfort of your own home or garden. Caron Higgins and her daughter Gabrielle run the Wild Bird Tea Party Company, providing a complete and fabulous tea party for all occasions. The ladies operate over a wide area and regularly work in Oxfordshire and throughout Buckinghamshire, providing tea for

Caron and Gabrielle Higgins

as few as two people to as many as 200. “We provide everything - the tablecloths, the china, the food and drink,” says Caron. “We bake everything ourselves, and we can serve it too, unless our customers

want to do that themselves, and then we will just return later to clear everything away. “We recently provided tea for a couple who were celebrating their wedding anniversary, and we have also catered for wedding parties. Some brides will have a wedding around lunchtime then have afternoon tea later, followed by a vintage fish and chip van or hog roast in the evening.” The company provides a range of sandwiches, which can include traditional fillings such as smoked salmon, and cucumber and egg, or they can add the customer’s ow favourite fillings. Then there is a selection of different cakes, lavender shortbread and scones with strawberry jam and cream. The teas can be delivered to any venue, private homes and gardens, a marquee, vintage caravans, hen parties in a field – the scope and variety is ever growing. The business, which is based at a farmhouse near Milton Keynes,

This farming life Heather Jan Brunt

has been running for three years. Caron’s interest in baking was first instigated by necessity, for as a child her daughter had food allergy problems: “I had to learn a lot about food and bake everything from scratch, and it developed from there,” she says. “We also have a great interest in vintage china and design and many years experience in event management.” See the Wild Bird Tea Party website for more details at: www.wildbirdteaparties.co.uk l Heather Jan Brunt is a journalist

and a farmer’s wife. Follow her on Twitter @HJBjournalist. She and her husband sell their own award winning Terrick Beef. The next shop days are on Fri 3rd & Sat 4th April. See: www.downonthefarm.co.uk

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Win a Spa Day for Two with buffet lunch at Whittlebury Hall Hotel & Spa

xperience the ultimate in pampering and unwind at the award-winning four-star Whittlebury Hall Hotel and Spa, as we offer you a chance to win the perfect Spa Day for Two! Whittlebury Hall is near Silverstone, only a short drive up the M40, and the Day Spa has just been awarded the titles of Best UK Luxury Hotel Spa and Best UK Luxury Day Spa in the World Luxury Spa Awards 2015. It is one of the largest spas in the country with 23 treatment rooms and a menu of more than 60 treatments to choose from, delivered by a team of highly skilled therapists. In addition, The Leisure Club includes a 19m pool, whirlpool and gym with the latest state-of-the-art facilities. A Spa Day for Two* includes; • Two course Buffet Lunch • Full use of Heat and Ice Experiences • Full use of the Spa and Leisure Club facilities The Day Spa at Whittlebury also boasts the unique Heat and Ice Experiences, which provide

prize is available Sun-Thur only, excludes 2nd -5th July 2015 and is subject to availability. Guests must be aged 18 years or over. This competition is not open to the employees of Whittlebury Hall and their family members. Prize to be booked and taken by 30th September 2015.

If you’re not the lucky winner, why not take advantage of Whittlebury’s great value Reader Offer: **Buy a One Night Spa Stay and receive a COMPLIMENTARY Whittlebury Cream Tea*. Call 0845 400 0002 and quote ‘VALE2015’ to book, or visit: www.whittleburyhall.co.uk for more details.

Whittlebury Hall Spa stimulating body sensations brought about by dramatic changes in temperature. Facilities include a Sanarium® incorporating a sauna, soft steam bath and herbal bath; a Caldarium hot room and a Soap Massage Room. There is also an Aromatherapy Crystal Steam Room, an Ice Cave, Roman Salt Steam, Experience Showers, Foot Spas and Hydrotherapy Pool. If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning a *Spa Day for Two

at Whittlebury Hall, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Which famous racing circuit is Whittlebury Hall close to? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by July 20th, 2015. *Terms and Conditions apply. This prize is non-transferable and non-refundable, and has no cash equivalent. This prize cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer or promotion. This

**Offer includes a complimentary Whittlebury Cream Tea per person when purchasing a 1 Night Stay from £108.90 per person per night. £40 single supplement applies. Offer valid Sun-Thur only. Heat and Ice Experiences to be taken on day of arrival. Offer valid for bookings taken until 6th September 2015, excluding 2nd-5th July 2015. l Whittlebury Hall and Spa Limited, Whittlebury, Towcester, Northamptonshire, NN12 8QH Spa reservations: 01327 850489 E: reservations@whittleburyhall.co.uk W: www.whittleburyhall.co.uk

Y A D N U Y S A NDERY SUR V

ARV Y CA R E N IN Y A ID L C O E H IDAY INN AT THE HOL AT TH

£13.95 Why not treat the family PeR ADuLT £13.95 Why not treat family this Sunday tothe a delicious PeR ADuLT £9.95 this Sunday toCarvery a delicious CHILDReN Three Course Lunch £9.95 uNDeR 12 CHILDReN Three Course Carvery Lunch at the Holiday Inn, Aylesbury. uNDeR 12 at Holiday Inn, Aylesbury. Callthe us to book your table in our child-friendly Junction where we child-friendly will have a fantastic Call us to Restaurant, book your table in our Three Course Lunch waiting forwill youhave at anaamazing Junction Restaurant, where we fantasticprice! Three Course Lunch waiting for you at an amazing price!

There’s an ice-cream decoration tiontoo! oraner deccor eaming ’s an colour a -cr Th andice tion staere too! ner cor station and a colouring

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Perfect venue for Perfect venue for family gatherings, family gatherings, birthdays and AT THE birthdays and HOLID anniversaries. AY INN AT THE HOLID anniversaries. AY Packages available from £25 per person to INN

include Three Course Meal Packages available from £25and perprivate personroom to hire. include Three Course Meal and private room hire.

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Tribute nights nights Tribute 2Tone Night 15th May £24.95 2Tone Night May £24.95 Only Fools & 315th Courses 3rd July £34.95 Only & 3 Courses 3rd July £34.95 Devil Fools Dolls Halloween Spectacular 30th October £24.95 Devil 30th October £24.95 AbbaDolls One Halloween (duo) 20thSpectacular November £34.95 Abba One (duo) £34.95 Michael Buble Act,20th JoeNovember Gibson 27th November £34.95 Michael Buble Act, Joe Gibson 27th November £34.95 To book guests will need to call 01296 734038 or email meetings-aylesbury@ihg.com To book guests will need to call 01296 734038 or email meetings-aylesbury@ihg.com

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Mead Farm shop is a great place to visit. There’s always a fab selection of local produce from the farm’s own beef, lamb, oils and dressings to tempting delights from further afield. New in though and worth the trip alone, is the mouthwatering new Chiltern Cold Pressed Mayonnaise...

he sunny yellow fields of oilseed rape (brassica napus) we see all around, will be ready for harvest soon. The seeds look like mustard seeds and it is actually of the same plant family. At Wilstone, by Tring reservoirs, Simon Mead, the fifth-generation of his family to farm in the area, has become famous for his cold pressed virgin rapeseed oil products, available from the PE Mead & Sons farm shop and tea rooms and an ever increasing number of other discerning outlets across our area such as Bucksum Salads in Long Crendon, Orchard View Farm and Seasons Farm Shop. Cold pressed rapeseed oil is not only great for cooking - it has a higher smoking point than olive oil - it is also very light, with a subtle nutty flavour, making it ideal for use in dressings and now also in Chiltern Cold Pressed’s new Mayonnaise products. It is also one of the healthiest oils to eat, for unlike most of the vegetable oils on supermarket shelves, which are heat pressed and then go through chemical processes to extract the maximum amount of oil, Chiltern Rapeseed Oil is just squeezed out of the seed with no heat or chemicals involved. With half the saturated fat content of olive oil and higher amounts of omega 3, 6 and 9 fatty acids, Chiltern Cold Pressed rapeseed oil is a healthy and versatile everyday oil and to be environmentally friendly, you can take your bottle or tin back to Mead Farm shop and have it refilled. Each seed contains about 46% oil and once it has been pressed, the remaining husk is combined with other feed and given to the Mead Farm beef cattle to eat. Once harvested the seeds are cleaned and

Mead Farm Shop

Simon Mead, right, and cousin Chris stored in a grain store and then pressed in small batches as needed, usually 1,000 litres at a time so the oil is used fresh. The Chiltern Cold Pressed range includes delicious Oil Infusions, made with natural extracts such as: chilli, garlic, porcini, lemon, basil, orange, thyme and rosemary; Dressings - Classic Vinaigrette, Honey and Mustard and Balsamic; Barbecue Sauce; and now a new Mayonnaise selection. Their Great Taste Award-winning oak smoked rapeseed oil is made on the farm too, by stacking trays of oil over smoking oak chips, outside the bottling shed. “The chilli-infused oil is great for breakfast fry-ups,” says Simon. “I like the herb-infused oil for roasting vegetables, and often use the plain oil to whip up a smooth vinaigrette. “I’m really pleased with the mayonnaise though, it comes infused with lemon, garlic or chilli as well as plain. We’ve been trialling flavours at our farm shop for some time and have had lots of positive feedback. It’s taken quite a while to develop. It’s not easy getting the perfect blend. You have to mix or emulsify

oil and vinegar using pasturised egg yolks (it’s the lecithin in the egg yolk that makes it bind together) and I’ve only recently found the ideal supplier - Merangz, a company who make an amazing range of lovely meringues using egg whites but don’t need the yolks! We’re selling Merangz in the farm shop now - ideal for making Eton Mess with our strawberries!” Mead farm shop is a hub for local produce and British produce from further afield. There’s a good frozen selection with everything from loose fruit to ready meals and the shop also sells charcoal, plants, pet food, Heygates Animal Feeds for all farm livestock including poultry, cattle, pigs, goats, sheep and horses, fresh fruit and vegetables, pickles, chutneys and preserves, cakes and signed cookery books by Jean Christophe Novelli, see below, who likes to use Chiltern Cold Pressed oil at his restaurant and cookery school! l P E Mead & Sons Farm Shop, Wilstone, Near Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 4NT Tel: 01442 828478 Web: www.pemeadandsons.co.uk Open Mon-Sat: 9am-5:30pm, Sun: 9am-4:30pm

Jean Christophe recipe books

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

l Column:

Farm Life by Helen Mackellar

Thousands flock to farm open day

he sun was shining blissfully on the best Sunday of 2015 so far and as the unmistakable fragrance of hog roast wafted across the farmyard there was excitement in the air and bustle and activity everywhere, as our volunteer workforce assembled to shift the sheep ready to be sheared - Open Farm Sunday was up and running at Orchard View Farm! Even the Orchard View pig families, in their individual family pens, seemed to know something was going on and strutted around, showing off, as if knowing they were about to be viewed by over 1,000 visitors! On the other side of the farm 50 bacon butties were being prepared for the workforce to gear them up for the day. It was a perfect start to a perfect day and what a scorcher it turned out to be! Visitors came flocking in and Jim was everywhere leading farm tours and taking sausage making workshops. We were so busy he would finish his farm tour and go straight to join an enthusiastic throng of visitors all waiting to see how we make our award-winning sausages.

Farm tours with Jim

Before you could say ‘pork chipolata’ though, we’d look up to see the farm tour meeting point was hidden away with yet another crowd of excited visitors awaiting Jim’s next farm tour! jaws dropped and children The sheep started screaming with shearing was excitement! An amazing awesome and the demonstration ensued from sheep seemed driver Tim Mason - who to enjoy the have thought you could Sheep shearing demonstration would experience and slam dunk a basketball with be genuinely glad a JCB! to be rid of their heavy coats. Their The farm was buzzing, there fleeces came off with ease and the were bouncy castles, a barbecue, wool spinning ladies were nearby facepainting, photography, gracefully spinning away to show blacksmiths from Reddog Forge visitors how the process continued at Haddenham, a miniature steam and wool was spun ready to make engine display, food and craft stalls clothes. and lots of people having a cracking Half way through the day the big time. JCB telehandler rocked up the drive, What an absolutely perfect day, a

Helen Mackeller Farm Life very big thank you to all our helpers and volunteers and to everyone who came and supported our Open Farm Sunday. Come and see us again soon, any day apart from Mondays. Keep in touch with what’s going on at Orchard View Farm by following our facebook page and website. Upcoming events include a Paella evening with live music on June 26th, a Sausage and Beer Festival, a Holiday Hideaway and lots more! l Jim and Helen Mackeller run Orchard View Farm, Farm Shop and Café at Little Meadle near Longwick. Orchard View Farm, Stockwell Lane, Little Meadle, Buckinghamshire, HP17 9UG Tel: 01844 273387 / 07968 560724 Email: Helen@orchardviewfarm.co.uk Web: www.orchardviewfarm.co.uk Open: Tue-Sat 9.30am-5.30pm, Sun 10am-4pm

The Bell at Hardwick is a delightful 17th century pub in the pretty village of Hardwick near Aylesbury. It has recently been lovingly restored and refurbished and is now an inviting place to enjoy a drink or choose from a wide range of freshly prepared, home-cooked food.

From delicious light snacks and meals at lunchtime, to a full, ever-changing seasonal menu in the evening, all served in a friendly, relaxing and informal pub atmosphere, or al fresco in the pleasant garden or courtyard, The Bell at Hardwick has something for everyone. A separate dining room is available for small parties and functions and a marquee over the courtyard can accommodate larger parties. l Recently awarded the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence The Bell at Hardwick, Lower Road, Hardwick, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4DZ | Tel: 01296 640005 | Web: www.thebellathardwick.co.uk 54

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Eat at The Village Gate and you can tell something special is going on in the kitchen. David Cavalier and his team are not trying to serve up gourmet fare, just good quality food at reasonable prices, but his skills are shining on through...

ith numerous Michelin Stars, Egon Ronay stars and AA Rosettes to his name, one might have expected the former Bell Inn, L’Escargot and Mosimann’s chef, David Cavalier, to turn his latest venture, The Village Gate at Wendover, into an expensive fine dining experience.

Photographs by Charlotte Hazeldine

But David lives in the area himself and feels that what local people want is great quality food at reasonable prices, in relaxed, friendly and stylish surroundings. “I’m enjoying running my own place again,” says David. “There’s some great local produce available around here and I’m trying to use it to its full potential. It’s taken a few months to get things as I want, but we’ve a great team here now and I think we offer a quality dining experience but at very affordable prices. I want people to enjoy superior food and drink with family friendly service and feel they are getting exceptional value for money. “There will always be places you can eat more cheaply but if you want top quality ingredients, freshly prepared food and skilled kitchen staff, creating dishes that look great

and taste amazing, you will not be disappointed and will find us good value.” The Summer menu is now in full swing at The Village Gate and the gardens have been refurbished to create three smart but comfortable, al fresco dining areas. There are some lovely views across the fields to enjoy as well and a beer and seafood festival with barbecue is planned for the end of August. For those who like a deal there’s a two course lunch offer for £16 and if you book a table Monday-Thursdays for lunch or dinner online via the pub’s website (www. thevillagegate.co.uk) you’ll get 10% off your food bill (excludes other offers). On Tuesday evenings you can have two David Cavalier Steaks with a bottle of red wine for only £30, on Wednesdays a traditional British homemade place for refreshments or a bar snack and the pie with a pint of guest beer or a glass of wine food is most excellent, especially the Sunday for only £ 12 and on Fridays beer battered fish lunches, for which booking ahead is most and chips and a glass of bubbles for two is definitely recommended (28 day aged roast only£30. sirloin of beef, seasonal veg and Yorkshire David is also catering for pudding only £13.50). functions either at the pub On a recent visit our Vale Life or outside at a venue of your editor enjoyed a delicious Marinated choice. There are three room Salmon with Brixham Crab, Pickled options for private functions Ginger and Lemon Dressing at The Village Gate: one for 26 followed by the tastiest ever Calf ’s with a private garden area; the Liver and Bacon with Mashed main restaurant which seats 50 Potato and Lyonnaise Sauce and and also has an outside decking a superb Pannacotta with Blood area; and room three which is Front of house manager Dan Orange Jelly, Pomegranate and more intimate and seats up to Pecan Crumble which he said was seven around a single table. like ‘angels crying on his tongue - praise indeed Weddings of up to 120 can be catered for and evidence that The Village Gate really is at the pub, while outside catering for weddings providing diners with a heavenly experience! and functions of up to 1,000 guests is possible. l The Village Gate, 225 Wendover Road, David is happy to discuss ideas for bespoke Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6BA and themed menus for parties and events, Tel: 01296 623884 while the pub menus and weekly specials can Email: villagegate@outlook.com be found on the website. Website: www.thevillagegate.co.uk Reports are that service is friendly and Open from 11am, food from 12noon-10pm efficient, the bar is well stocked and a pleasant Sunday lunch served from 12-6pm

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

l Column: Jacqui

Thorndyke ‘Foodie On Tour’

Dare we dine with the kids?

ith two boys now nearing ages two and four, dining out is starting to become... let’s say challenging. Before the boys were born we would happily indulge in a meal out whenever it took our fancy, at whatever time of day we fancied, in whatever restaurant we fancied. No worrying about fitting meals in around nap times, no fretting about children’s menus and the availability of highchairs. Even when the kids were little, we could just leave them sat next to us in their car seat and they’d happily sleep all the way through the meal. Not these days. These days dining out can be sheer and utter hell. It’s not that the boys are badly behaved, they’re just typical, run-ofthe-mill, kids. And most restaurants are adept at managing tables with children. I wrote once before about how impressed I’d been with the child friendliness of local restaurants, however all changed

Some restaurants are just better at catering for kids than others

when I set foot in a particular, recently reopened, Oxford pub. Visiting with a group of mums and kids, we experienced quite possibly the worst customer service I’ve encountered yet. An absurdly rude owner - parent to four he told us (*slow clap*) - questioned our ability to ‘control our children’ after an exhausting wait for food led to them becoming rather restless. And that’s only one of a long list of issues there. The whole experience left me furious. But that’s not to say I don’t get that kids in restaurants can be annoying. To be frank, I find dining

out with them pretty frustrating myself. Let me be clear, I love my kids to bits, but God do I miss those uncomplicated pre-child meals. I miss the peace and quiet. I miss not having a giant bag stuffed full to the brim with nappies, distracting toys, baby wipes, nappy creme and multiple changes of clothing. I miss eating food with a knife AND fork, instead of stabbing at bits of food with one hand whilst wrangling a child with the other. But what should we do once we’ve made the decision to bring another little human into the world - never dine out with them? I’m no fan of unsupervised children running around in restaurants, or staying at the table while they cry, that’s got ‘take it outside’ written all over it, but sod avoiding restaurants altogether. It might be tough work but I think it’s far more productive teaching kids early about table manners and how (or not) to behave in public. That, plus the fact we’d all go stir crazy if we were stuck at home for EVERY SINGLE

Jacqui Thorndyke

MEAL. So next time you find yourself twitching at the noise coming from the ‘brats’ at the table in the corner, feel for the parents who are sitting right in the middle of it. Unless they’re taking no notice while the kids whoop around the place, in which case you have my full backing to evil glare. l For local food and restaurant reviews and recommendations, visit www.foodieontour.co.uk, or follow Jacqui on Twitter @FoodieOnTour. To contact Jacqui directly, please email: foodieontour@yahoo.co.uk

Claydon estate

Welcome... Eat Well, Laugh Much, Drink Often...

Welcome...

Andy and Emma welcome you to The Boot, modern country pub and eating house, in the heart of the picturesque Chiltern Hills. Enjoy fresh, locally produced food, local ales and fabulous wines. Our chef creates exciting dishes suitable for all tastebuds, so families can dine in style. Pop in for a pint, a delicious evening meal or a leisurely Sunday lunch, you will always be greeted with a friendly smile and attentive service. Father’s Day - Sunday, June 21st Boot Ball - Saturday, July 11th with live Take That tribute band. Tickets £60. Open: Tue-Thur: 11am-3pm & 5pm-11pm, Fri/Sat: 11am-11pm, Sun 12noon-7pm Food served: Coffee & pastries from 11am Tue-Sat: 12noon-2.30pm and 6pm-10pm. Sundays: 12noon-6pm. Closed Mondays Chinnor Road, Bledlow Ridge, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4AW Tel: 01494 481499 | Email: theteam@theboot-bledlowridge.co.uk Website: www.theboot-bledlowridge.co.uk 56

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Burgundy Wine Tasting in Claydon Gardens with Andrew Corben-Clarke of ‘The Burgundy Portfolio’

Saturday 11th July: 5pm to 8pm Enjoy a summer evening in the beautiful surroundings of Claydon’s Pool Garden with a selection of fine Burgundian red and white wines and light bites. Tutoring and tasting sheets to be provided. In adverse weather we will be pleased to unveil our new Courtyard Events Room.

£40 per person. For tickets or further details contact the Claydon Estate Office: Tel: 01296 730 252 Emal: info@claydonestate.co.uk www.claydonestate.co.uk

l Column: Katy Brown - mix96

Mix96 Breakfast DJ Katy Brown shares a little of her life in local radio...

his time of year really is the best time of year to be a Breakfast Show radio presenter, because whilst we’re still up and about before even the birds start to chirp, by the time we set off on our journey to the mix96 Studios the birds are awake and the sky is pink with a beautiful sunrise ready to set the mood for your day ahead in fact, every now and then I pull over to take a snap - granted most days it looks the same but every morning I am still happy and grateful to see it! Darren, Chris and I arrive in the office for 5:30am and this is when I get my first, best and only cuppa brought to my desk by Darren himself. I have to say, the man makes remarkable tea (milk in last, obviously)! We crack on for the next half hour preparing the content for our show - searching through papers and scanning the net for stories, surveys and showbiz! By the time 6am arrives we’re ready to go. The first half hour of the Breakfast Show always goes so quickly. I can’t say much about what happens in these first 30 minutes of broadcasting because, well, the first rule about this first 30 minutes is that we’re not allowed to talk about it. It’s a secret you see, but if you’re up that early and you haven’t listened in before I suggest you give it a listen. I’ll say no more. Across the morning we share with you what’s trending on line around the world, the top showbiz news stories (which will no doubt feature Simon Cowell or Jeremy Clarkson), give you opportunities to win literally thousands of pounds on the Secret Sound (if the sound still hasn’t been identified by the time this goes to publish you

Up with the sun for mix96! could literally go on a Caribbean holiday with the prize fund total that’s going up every day!) and every morning we have £1,000 casually sitting in a vault in our studio- it’s yours at 8:15am if you want to win it - it’s yours! The time always flies by on Breakfast and before we know it, Darren is starting on the Mystery Years and I’m out in the office munching on some granola and planning all our forthcoming events. With the summer well and truly in full swing now, there’s loads to look forward to with the mix96 Tour De Vale already behind us we have the likes of the Annual Gemstone Midnight Walk, the mix96 Play in The Park and our Summer Tour where we broadcast our show from various locations across Bucks to get organised! And then, dare I say it? Before we know it, the clocks will be changing and suddenly… it’s Christmas! Enjoy the sunshine folks and I hope we get to bump into one another at some point across the summer. Check out all we’re up to at www.mix96.co.uk l Catch Katy on air weekdays from 6am-9am on 96.2fm www.mix96.co.uk

Fun for families at Henley Festival

WEDNESDAY 8TH to SUNDAY 12TH JULY his year’s impressive Henley festival line up of: Jessie J (Wed), Lionel Richie (Thur), Gregory Porter & Laura Mvula (Fri), Gipsy Kings (Sat) and Spandau Ballet (Sun) will be further enhanced with the addition of a specially curated Family Day, on Sunday 12th July, when a world of wonder and entertainment will be on offer from 11.30am-3pm for those of four years and upwards. The daytime event will feature a unique performance from explosive, creative performance group Kinetika Bloco on the Floating Stage. The special concert brings together an exuberant mix of brass and woodwind players, drummers, steel pan and dynamic dancers all in costume, drawing influences from the Caribbean, Brazil, West and Southern Africa, New Orleans jazz, Funk and Hip Hop and are sure to have guests of all ages on their feet. There’s mesmerising theatrical shows, comedy for kids, and of course, the signature Henley Festival Roving Troupe of Entertainers. It starts in The Salon from 11:45am with Catapluf ’s Musical Journey, a one off show that transports the audience to a place where everything is musical - saucepans, water, drums and even the body are instruments! A 50-minute show packed full of live music from every corner of the globe. Over in the Bedouin Quarter, Illyria - The Sorcerer’s Apprentice unveils an intriguing piece of outdoor theatre, bringing to life the original boy-wizard story, most famously told in Disney’s Fantasia. Stand up comedy for kids with

Catapluf James Campbell, will put a smile on youngsters’ faces, while the festival’s fun and quirky Roving Troupe of Entertainers will be popping up around every corner. The colourful group includes Crazy Pony who combine world music and acrobatics, miniature film experiences in Bakkie-Bike’s World’s Smallest Cinema, France’s Aquacoustic’s concert in a paddling pool and Scubabianchi’s underwater car. Impressive Greek statues come to life as a river’s worth of water erupts from all over their bodies, turning them into mesmerizing human fountains. With so much to see and do, this is the perfect opportunity to experience the festival like never before. This is the first time families will be able experience the extraordinary atmosphere of Henley. Tickets are on sale now priced from £7.50 (for children up to 12) and £15 per adult. A family ticket (2 adults plus 3 children) is just £35. Just 6,000 tickets are available for each black tie evening priced from £35; so don’t miss your chance to experience the magic, for more details and to book, visit: www.henley-festival.co.uk. l Henley Festival, July 8th-12th, Website: www.henley-festival.co.uk Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Music Column:

Turn it up! with Dan Mordente

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

2 Strokes to launch debut album

Dan Mordente

Turn it up!

Our music columnist is Dan Mordente. Dan is ‘Artist and Events Manager’ at BFS Records, and as an avid follower of the local music scene, is always keen to meet and work with enthusiastic local musicians. Contact Dan and email him local gigs and music news on: dan@vale-life.co.uk Add your gigs to our website what’s on diary at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Live Music

June 26: Juan Moore, Victoria Club, Aylesbury. 28 Charlie Leavy, Dukes Wine Bar, P. Risborough 26th Dizzy Fish, Shootpool, Aylesbury 26th Larry Miller, Limelight Theatre, QPC, Aylesbury 27th Thin White Duke, Bowie Tribute, Shootpool, Aylesbury JuLY 2nd Jamnation, Shootpool, Aylesbury 2nd First Thursday Music Club, James Figgs, Thame 3rd Tim Says No, Shootpool, Aylesbury 4th Bustin Loose, Shootpool, Aylesbury 4th Laura Williams, Rising Sun, Thame 4th Nick Stephenson, The Kings Head, Haddenham 10th BFS Records Presents… Thame Snooker Club, Thame 11th King Loud, Victoria Club, Aylesbury 11th Replica Rockaholics, Shootpool, Aylesbury 11th Mudslide Morris & The Revelators, Green Man, Aylesbury 17th Leech, Victoria Club, Aylesbury 17th CoolBeans, Shootpool, Aylesbury 17th-19th Penn Festival, Penn 18th Kieran Cox, Rising Sun, Thame 17th-18th Truck Festival, Oxford 25th The Brahmas, Victoria Club, Aylesbury

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

“When people ask, I tend to describe us as aggressively happy Ska-Punk-Britpop with a Blues backbone,” grinned Brandon Coleman, The 2 Strokes frontman in a recent interview on Stoke Mandeville Radio. With snarled vocals, skainspired guitar riffs and up-tempo beats, The 2 Strokes offer a contemporary brand of modrevival, strongly influenced by bands such as The Jam and The Lambrettas. Formed from the ashes of locally renowned cover act Porcelain Dogs - the trio signed to local independent record label, BFS Records in 2014, and have spent the last 12 months working on their debut album. May 15th saw the band unleash a taster of what’s to come, with the release of their much-anticipated single, ‘Boomshanka’. The single has been met with critical acclaim, receiving airplay on a number of FM radio station as well as local internet stations. In celebration of the release, BFS Records hosted a Single Launch Party at Thame Snooker Club. The audience was a mix of press and punters and the band

Brandon Coleman of The 2 Strokes

played a unique show in which their usual rambunctious set was replaced by an entirely calmer affair, with the band pausing throughout to regale the sizable crowd with insight into the origins of their songs. After an hour of unheard album material, lost rarities, and reminiscent anecdotes, the band launched into anthemic single ‘Boomshanka’ to close their set. As the last note rang out and the band put down their guitars, the crowd cheered on, urging them to continue. With a swift humbled glance to his bandmates,

frontman Brandon swung his guitar back on and the band hurled themselves into a riotous 20 minute encore. As the crowd filed out of the venue, a small cluster huddled around the stage and the band signed copies of their single. Soon afterwards, The 2 Strokes set off into the night to celebrate their triumphant release show, however the next day they were back to work, putting the finishing touches to their imminent album. If the general response to ‘Boomshanka’ is anything to go by, The 2 Strokes album is set to be a massive success. With its release scheduled for the end of July, and a dedicated following eagerly awaiting that, Thame can expect many more merry nights of ‘scooter-pop’. Whilst the 11-track album successfully encapsulates the bands energetic live show, with its raw tone and minimal overdubs, I would urge any local music fan to catch the threesome live for the full 2 Strokes experience. ‘Boomshanka’ is available to download now via all good online retailers.

Astonbury Festival updated

015 sees local music festival Astonbury step things up a notch. After several years of big name headliners and sell out events, the organisers have made the bold decision to make some big changes to the festival, and give loyal revellers an idea of where the festival is heading in the future. Over the years, Astonbury has become well known for bringing big name bookings to rural Oxfordshire. 2013 saw star of The Voice Tyler James - claim the headline slot and in 2014, the small village of Aston Rowant welcomed HipHop icon, Tinchy Stryder to the Astonbury stage. This year Astonbury will be entertained by indie-pop group - The Feeling, rapper – Wretch 32, and international DJ and man of mystery – Jaguar Skills. As a community event, Astonbury has always made an active effort to

Swoons - pic by Sean Edwards support local musicians, so as usual, the big name headliners will share the stage with the best local acts around including Tony Goff, The Purple Lights, Swoons and many more. This years’ festival also sees Astonbury relocate to a larger

site. Whilst the new festival site is little more than a mile down the road from the previous site, the move has big implications - after two years of impressive ticket sales, Astonbury has outgrown its 2,000 capacity barn and this move will see the festival’s capacity increase to 5,000 at Kingston House Park Estate. The festival, which has previously taken place on a single evening, will now take place over two days, with a family-themed evening on the Friday night (7th August) and a full day of live music over three stages on Saturday 8th August. Camping is available as usual and this year sees the addition of a fun fair, a wider variety of food stalls and bars and a dedicated Dance tent. More acts and attractions are set to be announced closer to the festival. Tickets are on sale now at: www.astonbury.net

Column: Stacey Astley-Clark ‘Good to give’

Searching for Superheroes

ntil we need them how much do we really think about the charity and voluntary sector? Most people are aware of household names such as: the National Trust, Cancer Research and RNLI but there are 2,500 registered charities in Bucks and many more groups doing charitable work. I work for an organisation called Community Impact Bucks, who are ‘enablers’ of the Not-for-Profit world in Buckinghamshire. Many of our much needed and valued services, such as libraries, respite care and residential homes for the elderly, were once provided by the local authority, but are now the responsibility of charities. Community Impact Bucks has the privilege of helping these groups as they set-up, grow and find the people they need to make their work happen, and currently of helping them to survive in the face of increasing austerity. As you would expect, these are challenging times for many NonProfits, particularly the smaller

ones, who, whilst being incredibly passionate about their charitable causes, and making a real lifechanging impact on so many, rarely have time or cause to think about business plans and marketing strategy. To keep delivering what they have been so well, many are having to seek expert advice to develop a business strategy, not just to survive… but to thrive! This is an area where we at community Impact Bucks offer support through programmes such as 8 Steps to Earning. In Buckinghamshire our local voluntary groups are rising to the challenge and achieving some incredible things. One of the groups we’ve closely supported is Lindengate, a Wendover-based charity that is tackling the growing issue of mental illness, with ecotherapy gardening projects. By selling the resulting plants as a source of fundraising, the project is also sustainable in every sense. Every single charity that we support and every single life that

we help to change is the result of dedicated local people. People who have reached a point in their lives or their career and realised that they have something amazing to offer, something that can truly make a difference. The energy and enthusiasm of many of these dedicated people is a powerful force and I am continually mesmerised by what can be achieved when it is directed into something that matters. Darran Hamer, founder of Bucksbased company Actopia, has been mentoring Aylesbury Homeless Action Group since December 2014 and says: “The feeling that your knowledge and expertise has made a difference is amazing and it reflects really well on our business. We don’t do it for this reason, but it is a pleasant side effect of doing good in the world! “Volunteering can be a thoroughly win-win situation. Studies show that volunteers are happier and live longer while making a difference to the lives of others. The people I meet

Stacey Astley-Clark

Good to give

volunteering have such valuable skills and are so dedicated, yet always underplay their impact on the lives of others. To me and many others they are real heroes.” So if your Superhero cape is in need of an airing, why not join our volunteer team? Adventures are guaranteed! l Stacey Astley-Clark works for

Community Impact Bucks, the ‘Charity Champions’ of Buckinghamshire. Through their team of Super-Hero staff & volunteers, their mission is to lead, inspire and influence Not-for-Profits to reach their full potential in improving the lives of others. More information: www.communityimpactbucks.org.uk

At Buckingham Lodge we know it’s the little things that matter NOW OPEN

Buckingham Lodge July Events

Summer Fete

Join us for cream tea, music and a tombola. Saturday 11 July 2015. From 2pm until 5pm.

Care Fees Planning Talk

How will the Care Act and the £72,000 cap on care affect you? Find out more about the Government’s Care Act, costs of long-term care and the importance of Power of Attorney. Tuesday 14 July 2015. From 5pm – 7pm.

At Buckingham Lodge care home, you’ll find a highly skilled team that’s passionate about helping your loved one to live happily and independently, providing support and specialist dementia care, 24-hours every day. But at Anchor we know it’s the little things that can make all the difference like arranging favourite activities, making that perfect cup of tea or always finding the time for a friendly chat.

45 years’ experience. Not-for-profit. To find out more, call us free on

0808 274 5160

or visit www.buckingham-lodge.co.uk

Anchor Care Homes. Happy living.

Buckingham Lodge Care Home, Culpepper Close, Aylesbury, HP19 9DU Anchor Trust registered charity no. 1052183. BL_Vale_Life_L_190x125_4_6_2015.indd 1

02/06/2015 11:38:51

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Building on the success of their 50th anniversary last year, Towersey Festival returns this August Bank Holiday with another great line-up and a few surprises too...

Bellowhead

firmly established highlight of the UK’s festival calendar, Towersey Festival’s 51st edition promises another excellent line-up of top flight entertainment. Headlining this food, craft and gift stalls, our hugely year are Joan Armatrading, Bellowhead, popular Children’s Festival and Shooting Stornoway, Show Of Hands and The Voice Roots,” says Joe, “but we’ve also taken finalist, Sally Barker. the opportunity to see where we can Joan Armatrading is one improve. As a result, you’ll see some of the UK’s most lauded really positive changes. For example, singer-songwriters. Currently it’ll now be easier to get around the site, on a lengthy sell-out world the sound-systems have been upgraded, solo tour (her last such we have a Creative Quarter where undertaking), Joan’s debut Stornoway lots of activities will be taking place, Towersey appearance will see her dip into her decadeTreacherous Orchestra, bearded spanning back catalogue, Australian choir The Spooky which includes such Men’s Chorale, troubadour John memorable hits as Love And Smith (recently seen supporting Joan Armatrading Affection, Drop The Pilot and David Gray on tour), fast-rising Down To Zero. Keston Cobblers’ Club, the Bellowhead are no strangers to Towersey. much-loved Roy Bailey (who played the very Described by BBC Radio 2 DJ Simon first Towersey back in 1965), and many more Mayo as ‘the greatest live act in Britain,’ acts, who’ll be appearing across six stages. previous appearances at the festival have been “We wanted to make our 2015 festival rumoured to have caused enthusiastic dancers just as special as our 50th last year, so we’ve Sally Barker to break the dancefloor! Having recently really pulled out the stops in terms of announced their intention to split up, this will, programming,” says Festival Director Joe and The Den for spoken word and quieter sadly, be their final Towersey. Heap. performances. We’ve also extended our links Hailing from Oxford, Stornoway’s mix With their previous site no longer available, with businesses in the area and will have some of indie and folk has continued to earn them this year sees the four-day event relocate just fantastic real ales from XT, Chiltern, Tring, high praise. After two sell-out hometown up the road, to nearby Thame Showground. Hop Back, Downton, Vale, Hook Norton and shows last year, Towersey will be their only “We’ll be taking everything that people West Berkshire as part of our Real Ale and official gig in the county over the summer, have always said they’ve loved about the Cider Festival. and comes in the wake of their BBC Radio 6 festival with us, so there’ll still be all the “We’re also working with Thame’s First Music-approved third album, Bonxie. great music sessions, street theatre and circus Thursday Music Club again. They’ll be They’re joined by Scottish collective The performances, the workshops, gourmet street bringing some exciting bands and musicians to our Showground Bar Stage.”

l Towersey Festival, Friday 28 to Monday 31 August, Thame Showground. Tickets for the full festival £135 Adult, £110 Conc, £95 Youth, £55 Child. Adult day tickets from £30; Youth (12-17) from £21; Child (5-11) from £14. All under 5s free. Car parking free. Big discounts for Thame and Towersey residents - call for details. Showground-only tickets available on the day. Tel: 01629 827016. Details: www. towerseyfestival.com

The Treacherous Orchestra

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Happy Birthday Waterside!

Aylesbury’s landmark venue is celebrating a milestone birthday this year. That’s right, the Waterside Theatre is 5 years old! And as might be expected there are plans to celebrate in style...

o, to mark this auspicious fifth anniversary, having welcomed visitors from Bucks and beyond (customers have travelled from as far as Australia, Brazil, Hong Kong and Australia!), our fabulous local theatre is embarking on a celebration with a difference - the staff are to take on an epic 52 mile challenge, a mixture of charity, challenge and pantomime that is to be known as the Waterside Whittington Walk. So what’s it all about? More than 20 Waterside Theatre staff members are trudging the streets of Aylesbury in search of streets paved with gold (AKA Westminster, London) as panto star Dick Whittington does in the popular tale. 12 staff are attempting to go the full distance and walk all the way to London, while other staff are walking legs of the route and volunteering as a support team. The walk is set to be the theatre’s biggest fundraiser to date and they hope to reach their £5,000 target for local charity, Florrie’s Children’s Team.

Above: Waterside Whittington Walk team members on a 17 mile training walk along the canal path from Aylesbury to Marsworth Right: The Stallwood family - Zara Stallwood (2nd from right) suffers from a rare life-limiting illness and receives care and support from Florrie’s Children’s Team

ATTENTION

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Local businesses including Waitrose, The Works ice cream parlour and Motts Travel are all donating supplies and resources from water, to nutritionally-balanced waffles and coach travel home. Florrie’s is a specialist team of nurses and carers providing vital home-based care to sick children (from birth to 19 years of age), in the familiarity of their own home, giving families the opportunity to take vital time out from caring for their sick child - which is often 24-hours a day, seven days a week. Florrie’s nurses and carers are able to take on the care of the child in the home, while quality time is spent as a family, particularly with other siblings. This respite care brings some normality back to family life for a short while, providing direct and indirect support of the sick child and of the whole family.

Vale Life : May/Jun 2015

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Coming up at The Waterside Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on...

Derren Brown: Mon 6th to Sat 11th July

The team supports families across Aylesbury Vale, Buckinghamshire, Bedfordshire and parts of Oxfordshire. Angie Pestka, Florrie’s Children’s Team Leader says: “Having a sick child means families are providing 24-hour care so it’s vital for parents, in particular the mother, to have some time off to recharge batteries and be a wife and parent to other siblings within the family. Florrie’s nurses help families achieve this goal, offering specialist homebased care and support to the sick child often ‘round the clock’ and tailored to their individual needs. I feel very privileged that families entrust us with their most precious possession – their children.” Your theatre needs you! Please donate now and help Aylesbury Waterside raise vital funds for Florrie’s by visiting: www.justgiving.com/ watersidewhittingtonwalkers

East is East

Mon 22nd Sat 27th Jun

Derren Brown - Miracle

Mon 6th to Sat 11th July

An Evening of Dirty Dancing

Thu 16th July

Royal Shakespeare Company Live Screen: The Merchant of Venice

Wed 22nd July

THE WATERSIDE WHITTINGTON WALK !

Sat 8th August

The Basil Brush Show

Thu 13th Aug

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Youth Musical Theatre Project

Fri 21st & Sat 22nd Aug

Friars Music Club presents: King Crimson

Mon 31st Aug & Tue 1st Sept

Brush, The Aylesbury Waterside Theatre Youth Musical Theatre Project and two nights of progressive jazz/rock when Friars Music Club presents the amazing King Crimson in concert, featuring guitarist Robert Fripp. l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

An Evening of Dirty Dancing Thur 16th July

Of course Aylesbury Waterside Theatre will still be running its exciting entertainment programme even if some of the staff are limping slightly! Don’t miss out on some great shows coming up in June, July and August, including Derren Brown, Dirty Dancing, Basil

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

The annual Raymond Blanc Festival of Music is a unique and much anticipated event which brings the world’s finest musicians to perform for a select audience in the delightful and intimate setting of Le Manoir’s neighbouring 12th century St Mary’s Church...

ow in its 24th year, The Raymond Blanc Festival of Music is well established, and has showcased many internationally acclaimed artists from the worlds of opera, classical music and jazz. This unique event, available for a select few only, is a rare chance for an intimate performance by some of the highest calibre artists in the music industry and guests will have the once in a lifetime opportunity to mingle with the artists after their performances. The 2015 festival offers music aficionados the ultimate opportunity to witness esteemed jazz artists Courtney Pine CBE and Madeleine Peyroux in almost complete privacy. Guests will be welcomed with a Champagne Laurent-Perrier reception, served with canapés, before being led on a torch lit walk to St Mary’s Church for the evening’s concert performance. Guests will then return to Belmond Le Manoir to enjoy dinner created by Raymond Blanc and Executive Head Chef Gary Jones for the occasion, with selected wines from the cellar, coffee and petits fours. English jazz musician Courtney Pine CBE is a multi-instrumentalist, playing the clarinet, bass clarinet, saxophone, flute and keyboards. Pine was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE)

Madeleine Peyroux

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

in 2000, and Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2009 New Year Honours for services to Jazz music. Pine’s latest album, SONG, with pianist Zoe Rahman was released in March 2015. American jazz artist Madeleine Peyroux is marking nearly 20 years as a singersongwriter and is renowned for her intensely distinctive renditions of old classics and modern tunes by the likes of Leonard Cohen and The Beatles. A street busker turned recording artist, Madeleine’s career ignited in 1996 when her debut album Careless Love landed arrived on Atlantic Records. Madeleine’s unique sound has been compared to that of Billie Holiday. Courtney Pine will perform on Wednesday 30th September and Madeleine Peyroux will perform on Thursday 1st October 2015. The evening begins at 6.45pm and dinner is served

Courtney Pine CBE and Raymond Blanc at 9.15pm. Tickets start from £350 per person. For further Courtney in action! details and reservations, telephone 01844 277484 or email: events.mqs@belmond.com For further information, visit: www.belmond.com/lemanoir or call the team on: 01844 277484.. l Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, Church Road, Great Milton, Oxfordshire, OX44 7PD www.blemond.com/lemanoir

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Turn End Charitable Trust has recently launched its second programme of art and gardening workshops at Haddenham and has included some ‘must visits’ for home and garden lovers too....

ucked away in the heart of Haddenham is Turn End, one of three award-winning village houses of post-war architectural merit, designed by architect Peter Aldington. Its garden, created as a natural extension to the architect’s own house, unfolds as an intriguing series of ‘garden rooms’ and has matured to become internationally renowned. Since 2014, the Trust has launched an annual programme of events aiming year by year to increase public access to the house and gardens and broaden the range of events.

More recently it launched a Friends of Turn End Scheme for members to enjoy access to the estate as far as possible through the four seasons of the year. Annual Individual membership is £25 and the Trust is also happy to discuss arrangements for Corporate membership. As modern housing, made of wood, concrete block and glass in a traditional setting, the Turn End estate has always been celebrated as a rare British representative amongst the best European housing design. Come and Peek inside! Sun 28th June, 2-5.30pm On Sunday 28th June, visitors to

Photographs by Paul Seasons Farm ShopWilkinson: www.paulwilkinsonphotography.co.uk

Turn End, which is rarely open to the public, will be in for a real treat and be able to step inside the family home, meet Peter and Margaret Aldington and find out how the house and gardens were designed and developed over the years. Jackie Hunt, Turn End’s gardener, will also be on hand to explain the various planting styles in the garden rooms. Entry is £15. Sculpture in the Garden: Sat 8th August to Sun 16th August, 11am-6pm, free entry. In August, Sculpture in the Garden returns to Turn End for a second year running. The different areas of the garden, which is set in less than an acre, will provide an intimate and beautiful setting to over 80 pieces of sculpture from 15 different artists and offer plenty of inspiration for anyone wishing to add sculptural interest to their own garden. Visitors will be able to explore and buy from an enticing selection of beautiful and varied traditional and contemporary artworks in many different media, including: stone, glass, wood and steel, from local, national and international artists. Spearheaded by Lendon Scantlebury and co-curated by

Jackie Hunt, who was originally a museum curator and archaeologist, the exhibition demonstrates how sculpture highlights and enhances aspects of any garden; large or small. All sculpture will be available for sale and teas and homemade cakes will be on offer too! The Trust is also continuing its programme of Art and Gardening Workshops. If you’d like to propagate your own plants but are not sure how, the Summertime Gardening Workshop (Thursday 20th August 10am-4pm) provides the ideal opportunity to learn. Perfect for beginners and those with some experience, the workshop will include seed sowing, dividing plants and taking cuttings - techniques you can practise at home without the need for special facilities. There are also two upcoming seasonal walks and talks: Talking Beds: the Dry Garden on Wednesday 1st July (4pm-5pm) and an Autumn Walk on Sunday 20th September (11am-12pm) as well as two Art Workshops – Checkerboard Spine Album on Thursday 24th September and Sunday 27th September (both 10am–4pm) and Pages and Covers on Friday 25th September and Saturday 26th September, (both 10am-4pm). More information on these can be found at: www.turnend. wordpress.com. l Turn End, Townside, Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8BG Tel: 07591 018601 Email: turnendtrustevents@gmail.com Web: www.turnend.wordpress.com

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Come and join in the fun as Aylesbury town centre plays host to a fantastic free event for youngsters each and every Thursday of the Buckinghamshire County Council school holidays...

ow in their sixth year, #AylesburyThursdays are popular with kids and parents alike, as they provide exciting and interesting activities to keep the kids busy, while parents can enjoy the fantastic range of cafés and restaurants in Aylesbury town centre - plus of course our two shopping centres and exciting range of independent shops! #AylesburyThursdays aim to give children a chance to experience a range of activities that they wouldn’t normally get to do for free - from a mini zoo to trying a six-lane Scalextric; from a kid-sized ‘Last One Standing’ to free magic shows, and even the opportunity to leap from a platform seven metres off the ground onto a giant stunt bag! This summer’s events, taking place in Market Square or nearby Kingsbury, are: 23rd July: Madcap Thursday (11am-3pm) Take your place on the bouncy disc and take turns to jump over the revolving inflatable pole - can you out-jump your opponents and be the last one standing? Still feeling competitive? Why not find out who can leap up and retrieve the highest items in the Energy Zone? 30th July: Magical Thursday (11am-3pm) Zany magical fun from Colonel Custard as he returns with his ever-popular, award winning magic shows. Catch performances at 11.30am, 12.30pm, 1.30pm and 2.30pm, and enjoy balloon modelling between shows. Face painting is also available for just £2.50!

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

Trina and Shamus

6th August: Zoomungous Thursday (11am-3pm) Weird, wonderful, fluffy, scaly, shy, curious, little and large - which will be your favourite animal at the mini zoo? With free crafts and the chance to try your go-karting skills for just £3, this promises to be a really fun-packed day out! 13th August: Thrill-seeker Thursday (11am – 3pm) Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to leap onto our giant stunt bag from 7 metres above the ground, then see if you have the stealth to weave through the security laser field in The Vault and retrieve the booty. Have you got what it takes? 20th August: Speedway Thursday (11am-3pm) Fulfil your need for speed on our giant 6-lane Scalextric! Can you beat your friends’ time on the racing simulators, or try

your skills at the pit stop challenge! Fancy a break from all that racing? Free pottery painting also available, along with face painting from just £2.50 27th August: Bouncetastic Thursday (11am-3pm) Enjoy some free bouncy fun and burn off that holiday energy on a whole range of bouncy activities, from gladiator duel to the bungee run and many more! So why not bring the kids along and let them join in the free children’s activities over the summer holidays? Thursdays are fun in Aylesbury town centre! l Events organised by Aylesbury Town Centre Partnership. Tel: 01296 585889 Email: amoon@aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/aylesburyvale

Vale Life : Jun/Jul 2015

As You Like It (2013)

Twelfth night

Henry V

5th-9th August 2015

12th-16th August 2015

Tales of comedy and kings are on the billing for this year’s Pendley Shakespeare Festival - two of the bard’s most popular plays once again staged al fresco in the most delightful setting...

he Pendley Shakespeare Festival is back with a vengeance this year for another summer of open-air magic. The Festival begins with perhaps his finest comedy, Twelfth Night, and then exactly six hundred years since the Battle of Agincourt, King Henry V marches again in Shakespeare’s most patriotic play. The Festival is delighted that last year’s directing pair: Sarah Perry and Sarah Branston, the Festival’s Artistic Director, will be returning. All the traditional elements of the festival will be in place, but Shakespeare was a constant innovator, always trying to please his audiences in new ways and the Festival tries to match his standards. This year’s major change is the introduction of a 3pm matinée on the two Sundays of the Festival. So for all those parents who have wanted to bring your kids along, for all those who have to get up early on Monday and for all those who would rather not be driving quite so late at night, the matinée awaits! Tickets are already on sale to take part in this year’s theatrical feast, which runs from 5th August to 16th August. In addition to the performances, Pendley Plus is making

a welcome return after last year’s success. The programme of seminars and discussions linked to this year’s plays features a Q&A with the cast and creative team, after the show on both Thursdays, and visiting academics will be giving talks on both Sunday mornings. They are aimed at anyone with an interest in Shakespeare and are completely free. Is there a comedy more suited to the paradise of the Pendley Shakespeare Festival than Twelfth Night? A magnificent and soulful tale of love and humour. We join the story in a mood of mourning, but it’s not long before Shakespeare’s sense of fun begins to fire on all cylinders - unrequited love, longlost twins, disguises, practical jokes, sword fights and mistaken identity; Twelfth Night has it all. As some of Shakespeare’s greatest comic characters crowd the stage, find ourselves Directed bywe Sarah Perry wondering if the mishaps and accidents will ever straighten themselves out. Sarah Perry’s production takes us into a fairytale world and promises to be an intriguing follow-on from her take on The Comedy of Errors last year. If you prefer something a little different, join in with a no less mischievous production of Henry V. The play is a spectacular retelling

Trina and Shamus

Much Ado About Nothing (2012)

of the trials and tribulations of one of England’s greatest kings. We follow an English hero, his fervent followers and his French foes, and see his journey from inexperienced leader to mighty warrior as he pursues his claim on the French throne. He wins the war, but will he win the heart of the French Princess? For some of the characters, though, war is little more than a game and it is the playful elements that Sarah Branston wants to bring out this summer. James Sheldrake, the Festival’s Literary Advisor, had this to say about the combination: ‘I think it’s a marvellous pair of plays, both packed to the gunwales with entertainment, wit and ideas. The directors and creative crew are already cooking up some fantastic plans and I look forward to working with this year’s tremendous cast.’ The Comedy Of Errors (2014) This year the Festival has managed to slim down its company to just sixteen actors, each of whom will perform in both plays. With Directed by Sarah Branston prices starting at just £15 in the open-to-theelements Illyria and Arden stands (much more Shakespearean to do it this way, of course), following an actor’s journey across the Festival is unlikely to break the bank. So bring a picnic or book yourself into As You Like It (2013) Evening Performances: Wednesday – Saturday, start 8pm. NEW Matinee Sunday, starta3pm thePerformances: restaurant, wrap up warm, bring brolly just intime case,of and getshow down to the Pendley Grounds open for picnics 2 hours before the scheduled start the Shakespeare Festival this August.

TWELFTH NIGHT 5—9 August 2015

HENRY V

12—16 August 2015

Some things are better out in the open.

l Pendley Shakespeare Festival, Pendley Manor, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 5QY Tickets available from website now: www.pendleyshakespearefestival.co.uk or from July 8th on: 01442 820060. For more info about Pendley Plus or to book for the seminars email: plus@pendleyshakespearefestival.co.uk Twitter: @pendleyshakes

BOOK ONLINE www.pendleyshakespearefestival.co.uk BOX OFFICE 01442 820060 (from 6 July 2015) www.pendley-manor.co.uk

Life : Jun/Jul1949 2015 67 PRODUCING AMATEUR THEATREVale SINCE

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ome people out there have only just got used to driving 5- and 6-speed gearboxes. But Honda’s ‘mine’s bigger than yours’ offering boasts NINE. Thankfully that doesn’t mean rowing the CR-V model along and wearing out your left arm because this is a nine-speed automatic transmission that delivers an unrivalled power-to-consumption ratio and opens up a whole new world for laid back, economical long distance driving. Operationally, the nine-speed box is a big success. Honda have sited the small, spring-action gearlever high up on the console within easy reach of the steering wheel, in the same configuration and style of top-level luxury Lexus models. It has simple RND markings for reverse, neutral and drive, with a straight back S setting for sports performance.

Honda CR-V 1.6i-DTEC EX 9AT 4WD

Alan Candy’s

AltomobilES Mated to the new 1.6 i-DTEC engine, it’s a smooth operator. Seamless changes and a quiet engine mean that in tandem, they are a very non-intrusive combination. The driver has to put the pedal to the metal to draw out the best performance. Acceleration to 62mph takes a creditable 10.6 seconds but feels slower - however, the 1.6 diesel engine performs more like a 2.0-litre equivalent overall and actually kicks out 10bhp more than the previous 2.2-litre engine.

And 55.3mpg combined with 139g/km CO2 is impressive for an automatic 4WD SUV this big. According to the test vehicle’s own real time mpg indicator, I was only achieving around 39.2mpg during my week with the car but most of my driving was admittedly urban during this time. Cosmetically the big CR-V has had a makeover that makes it look more cohesive and easy on the eye, with linear headlamps linking into the bold grille area. Bigger 18-inch alloy wheels and revised bumpers also reduce the CR-V’s visual bulk. The handsome CR-V - the world’s best selling SUV in the

first nine months of last year - is a great family car, with a composed and comfortable ride and a huge amount of legroom for back seat passengers. Dashboard controls and layout of main dials is much less complicated and busy than some other Honda offerings but the main touchscreen operation isn’t that intuitive on the move. There is also no question about the CR-V’s quality interior which is top notch, featuring plenty of tactile, soft-touch surfaces and smart brightwork detail. There’s plenty of versatility, too, and rear seats snap down quickly in one movement to reveal a huge amount of luggage space, Continued on page 70

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Honda CR-V 1.6i-DTEC EX 9AT 4WD

Continued from page 68 although the resulting load floor isn’t completely level. The main disappointment is that the CR-V isn’t the nimblest or most fun vehicle to drive in the sector, with stodgy cornering and a fairly lifeless feel to chassis and steering.

The Mazda CX-5 which I have also been testing, for example, is a much sharper, fun-to-drive crossover in this respect. But with enhanced safety and refinement built in as well, Honda fans are still going to flock to the CR-V, especially with the novelty of nine gears to play with.

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l Column: On

The Road

Vive la difference Citroen C4 Cactus

hen they set out to do something a bit different you can’t say Citroen don’t come up trumps. The Picasso was a case in point. Probably the most aesthetically challenged MPV to hit the roads, it became an undoubted hit for Pierre and his pals. Daring to be different, they might be on to another winner with their C4 Cactus - the wacky offspring of a design team that put pencil to paper only AFTER a long liquid French lunch. How else would you end up with a car that gives you the option of washing it or dry cleaning it? Actually it’s Airbump protection panels are very practical but the first one I saw looked like a quilted duvet - and until you fully appreciate why they’re there they do look a bit superfluous. But that’s one of the endearing qualities of the Cactus. It doesn’t set out to be a normal run-of-themill hatchback. Which is good, because it isn’t. Yes, there’s plenty of room inside the ultra Citroeny interior - soft, cozy, wallowy and comfortable. In fact the wide front seats are a bit too soft - you sit in them rather than on them - and its looks will have you either loving it or, like marmite, giving it a wide berth. It’s a car that grew on me bit by bit the longer we had it. The shape is chunky and funky, its shark grey paintwork in district

Rob Auchterlonie

ON The Road opposition to its stand–out cherry red door mirrors and red flashes on the rear pillars,which give the roof a bit of a floaty look. It’s devoid of sharp edges and its smooth, flowing shape is a refreshing change to the sharp angles on so many cars these days. The roof bars look strong and functional and there’s also a large panoramic roof to allow maximum light into the cabin. The Airbump technology fitted to the sides and the bumper comes in a choice of four colours and provides day-to-day protection from those who can’t control their shopping trolleys, the supple thermoplastic polyurethane skins incorporating air capsules to absorb impacts. So hopefully lower repair bills. The proportions of the C4 Cactus give it a 2.60m wheelbase (equivalent to a Citroën C4) putting the emphasis on space, the dimensions of a compact hatchback (length: 4.16m, width: 1.73m) and Shorter overhangs placing the wheels in the four corners. Inside they’ve de-cluttered the

Citroen C4 Cactus FASTFACTS: Citroen C4 Cactus; £18,090; 1560cc four cylinder turbocharged diesel, 100hp, 254Nm, five speed manual gearbox; top speed 114mph, 0-62mph 10.7 secs; fuel (45 litres) - urban 74.3, extra urban 88.3, combined 80.7; CO2 89g/km; Size: 4157/1729/1530 (l/w/h) cabin to provide a friendlier, more relaxing environment. And here’s how they did it. * ‘Airbag In Roof’ technology – transferring the passenger airbag to the roof & deploying it over the windscreen, rather than positioning it in the dashboard. * Conventional control buttons replaced by a 7-inch touchscreen, grouping together all the main vehicle functions (including the air conditioning, media, navigation, vehicle settings, telephone, connectivity & driving aids) * The traditional instrument cluster replaced by a digital screen - there’s no rev counter. * And instead of conventional door handles, you pull them shut with what Citroen call ‘luggage inspired leather straps. In the rear, passenger legroom is similar to that of the C4 ie OK. At just 4.16m long it makes for easy driving and handling in the city -and there’s a decent boot capacity

of 358-litres. Fitted as standard is a 7-inch touchscreen featuring seven main control buttons giving access to a full range of modern vehicle functions, all grouped on a single screen, ensuring they are always easily accessible. So, a bit different. And here’s one small point to watch out for if you’re a size 10 or above (shoe size, not dress, Sybil). The trim on the lower dash area is just waiting to catch your feet as you move over the pedals which is both annoying and frustrating at the same time. Sampled here is the 1.6 litre Euro 6 compliant turbocharged diesel, a very useful performer with 254Nm of useable torque, a clean CO2 figure of 89g/km and a claimed combined figure the good side of 80mpg. If run of the mill doesn’t float your canoe but quirky does, give it the once over.

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