Vale Life Magazine Mar-Apr 2018 web edition

Vale Life FREE MAGAZINE

Your free magazine for Aylesbury, Thame and the surrounding area

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www.vale-life.co.uk

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w art w music w people w Motors w homes w gardens w theatre w business w fashion w Beauty w health w Food w

Mar/Apr 2018

Cover image: Flooding at Thame Picture by Deb Porter www.facebook.com/debporterphotography

Inside: On a roll!

Turf experts open local depot

Community minded

Fencing firm has cash to splash

See our website at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Vanity is all

Techno treatment gets amazing results Plus our columnists: Katy, Naomi, Polly, Amanda, Cathy, Charlotte, Tracy, Sandra, Shaun, Nigel, Rob, Alan and much, much more...

Free local listings for events and businesses

w A Meal for two at the Black Horse, Thame w Woodworking Book w w Tickets to Beaconfest w ÂŁ100 John Lewis Voucher w ÂŁ50 Rogue Voucher w

Rated as

GOOD

by CQC

Individual Care in Beautiful Surroundings Outstanding care in the heart of Buckinghamshire

A place of care for over 50 years, our focus is to tailor your stay with us to your agenda and your needs. If you are in need of recovery after an operation, a break whilst family are away or maybe you are looking for specialist respite care, we would be happy to help in all cases.

First-class rehabilitation

Delicious, nutritious meals

Relaxing environments

“My stay at Chilton House was outstanding in every aspect, staff were amazingly helpful with positive attitudes, the food was excellent, and the physios worked closely with me allowing me to reach my recovery goal.�

Mr A, Berkshire

Chilton House, Chilton, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9LR www.chiltonhouse.co.uk | 01844 265 200 | enquiries@chiltonhouse.co.uk 2

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Eat, Drink & Dine

INVITES YOU TO CHRISTMAS AT THE CROWN Telephone: 01296 670216 E-mail: info@thecrowngranborough.co.uk

Winslow Rd, Granborough, Buckinghamshire, MK18 3NJ Web: www.thecrowngranborough.co.uk

The Crown, Winslow Road, Granborough, Buckinghamshire, MK18 3NP A mile south of Winslow, within 15 minutes of Aylesbury & Buckingham Within 30 minutes of Bicester, Leighton Buzzard and Milton Keynes

A charming village pub, attractively and sympathetically restored and now under new management, offering high quality dining in relaxed and comfortable surroundings, as found at our sister pub The Old Thatched Inn at Adstock

Pub open seven days - Monday: 5pm-10pm, Tuesday-Friday: 12-3pm & 5-11pm, Saturday: 12-11pm, Sunday: 12-8pm Food served: Tuesday-Saturday: 12-2.30pm & 6-9pm, Sunday: 12-5pm

Tel: 01296 670216 Web: www.thecrowngranborough.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

3

Welcome to Coco Tamarind Fine Indian restaurant & takeaway at Askett, Princes Risborough

Coco Tamarind serves the finest modern and traditional Indian cuisine, in stylish, comfortable surroundings. The relaxed ambience and efficient service, plus our well stocked bar, will ensure your time with us is a most enjoyable experience, whatever the occasion.

Sing out Sister / Dirty dancing tribute night!

Tuesday, May 15th from 7pm 5 course meal with entertainment only ÂŁ29.95 Book today to avoid disappointment!

l

l 10% discount on collected takeaways l Free home delivery within 5 mile radius (min order ÂŁ15) Become a Coco Tamarind Member and enjoy discounts and special offers l Please book ahead, we are busy all week!

Order your takeaway or reserve a table online at www.cocotamarindHP27.co.uk or call: 01844 343111 / 01844 346100 Coco Tamarind, Aylesbury Road, Askett, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, HP27 9LY

01296 01296622975 622975 07711750917 07711 750917 4

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

FF uu nn e re ra al lDDi ri re e cctot orrss 2121- -23 23 High Street,Wendover Wendover, HP22 High Street, HP22 6DU 6DU

bradleyandjones.co.uk bradleyandjones.co.uk time@bradleyandjones.co.uk time@bradleyandjones.co.uk

PENSIONS ON DIVORCE How important are pensions in a divorce?

Pensions are very important, often people overlook pensionss because they are more worried about finding a new home orr meeting living expenses. This is a mistake as pensions typically ly are the most valuable asset from a marriage.

How are pensions valued?

The starting point is to obtain a Cash Equivalent (CE) value.

This should be provided free by a pension provider upon a special request and is different to an annual pension statement. Sometimes quoted CE values significantly undervalue the pension particularly when occupational (defined benefit) pensions are involved, for example public sector pensions.

What is Pension Sharing?

The Family Court can provide for a pension to be split meaning a percentage of one spouse’s pension is given to the other, who must then invest the sum in a pension scheme. This new pension will remain in place and provide an income on retirement regardless of whether the former spouse re-marries or dies.

Are there alternatives to Pension Sharing?

Yes, the Family Court can make Earmarking orders or “off-set” t” the value of a pension against other assets, for example one spouse use might keep their entire pension but receive less than half of value in the family home in exchange.

Should I take advice?

Absolutely! Pensions are not only valuable but complicated. Expert financial advisors are sometimes needed to help lawyers advise ise on a fair outcome.

For expertise in divorce, separation, finances and child arrangements, nge ements, speak to Mark Studdart today.

01296 432541 mstuddart@kiddrapinet.co.uk

kiddrapinet.co.uk AYLESBURY

FARNHAM

HIGH WYCOMBE

LONDON

MAIDENHEAD

SLOUGH Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Day trips & a seaside break!

Thur July 19th 2018 Price: £33 (Adult) £31 (Senior) £24 (Child 6-16)

Crusader Holidays 2018

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Bentley Priory Museum, Stanmore tells the fascinating story of the beautiful Grade 11 listed country house, focusing on its roles as Headquarters Fighter Command during the Battle of Britain. Explore the important stories of ‘The One’ – Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding. ©Timelapsed ‘The Few’ who took to the air to defend our skies and ‘The Manby’ without whose tireless work on the ground victory would not have been possible and discover how technology, leadership and courage forged victory allowing Britain’s darkest hour to also be her Finest Hour.

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Sherman tank that featured in The location of the 1960's film 'The Eagle Has Landed' is an apt venue the block buster for Mapledurham War. Re-enactors fromFri all31st over country will March 2017 he location for 1960s film ‘TheatEagle Entrance to the Mapledurham atmovie War.“Fury” Sun 30th October 2016 on the beautiful Mapledurham Estate to set up camp as if it starring Brad apt venue for Has Landed’ is anconverge Saturday, June 16th £47 Adult; were during World War 2 for the entire weekend. Army trucks, tanks Pitt. Fresh from Mapledurham at and Warcars - re-enactors from around £45the Senior; £35 will convey the troops site whilst the Child camp a 3 year 4 Days The King of Waltz Returns!

André 2 Days displays will life was during that time. Wartime amphibious nut-and-bolt all over the country converge forshow the how weekend, Single room supp.£15 jeepsawill be “swimming” in the mill pond. Authentic battles willextra take restoration, Rieu back in France brand Single supplement to setisup camp as if it with were World War II, on Lets a trip back in time - we Insurance £23 place each day and musicians and dancers from the period will cometake and see newbeautiful show! André Rieu will give you the Mapledurham Estate. entertain the troops. herloved in all her glory. Towers! Come all Fawlty what you’ve come to expect from his convey While army trucks, tanks and cars Christine Wallace from the Great British Bake Off will be and join inbar* the• Hot funfood as John Cleese traders • Licenced demonstrating some war time ration recipes and sharing stories with performances: thesite, maestro conducting troops around the the camp displays • 1940s Tea RoomEdmond • Mapledurham impersonator, Wells,Watermill Jill Vallis of what life was like for those left at home. his 60-piece Orchestra show how lifeJohann was atStrauss the time.

Wartime There will be a Memory Board for visitors to add their memories or ITINERARy: After joining the coach at your chosen point travel to the only 6’ 7’’ Basil Fawlty look and playingjeeps his world-famous amphibious will be “swimming” in the kitchen will be no doubt be a reminiscing family stories. Her cookware Caversham Lock to board the 10.00 cruise to Mapledurham. Enjoy the and sound alike, walks the walkCruise back Museum, opportunity to be shared attractions, re-enactments andBentley displays. Priory at 16.45 to arrive Stradivarius violin to create awill colourful mill pond. Authentic battles take placewith younger visitors. the talk!

Typically thecoachtells It is hoped there will be a fly past from the Battle of Britain Memorial and backtalks at Caversham at 17.30 where your awaits to bring you home.story Stanmore the fascinating each dayfull andofmusicians dancers from the concert surprises. and The repertoire Flight both days. (Subject to change due to weather conditions).

Fawlty Towers theme night willbeautiful Grade 11 listed of the period troops.

PRICE INCLUDES: rangeswill fromentertain romantic,the emotional The Mapledurham Watermill will be open each day where visitors will start with meeting greetinghouse, focusing on its roles Coach Travel and country • Luxury Christine Wallace from thetoand Great be able see theBritish flour being milled and sample the baking from the ballads to the most gorgeous the guests at reception.

Basil Return Cruise from Caversham to Mapledurham with Thames Cruisers millers wife.

There will be children's activities, traders and street food.

• Bake Off will be demonstrating some wartime as Headquarters Fighter Command celebrated waltzes.

New this year guest appearance of Old Phyllis, the up-gunned 76mm will to Mapledurham War • Entrance announce dinner asatManuel

NEW SPECIALNEW EVENSTPEC

Bentley Priory Museum – Battle of Britain

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ration recipes sharing stories with during the Battle of Britain. Explore Experience theand magic of André Rieu at Jill leads guests to dinner inthe time Vallis about life wasevening really like those important stories of ‘The One’ – a festive andwhat memorable andfor Saturday June 16th 2018 Price: £47 (Adult) £45 (Senior) £35 (Child) Route: AFM honoured fashion.

Sybil is her left at see home. There beisaone Memory Air Chief Marshal Sir Hugh Dowding. come why Andréwill Rieu of theBoard usual self, Manuel will feature ©Timelapsed for visitors to add theirinmemories ‘The Few’ who took to the air to most popular live acts the world!or family as a waste of space, whilst Basil stories too. Her cookware kitchen will be our skies and ‘The Manby’ without whose tireless work on the ground victory 01296 33defend 66 66 01296 33 66 67 www.mottsholidays.com will be giving the sort of service no doubt be a reminiscing opportunity to be would have beenstreet, possible and discover how leadership and courage Shopnot 4 Buckingham Aylesbury, Bucks HP20 2LDtechnology, val@crusader-holidays.co.uk one would expect from a top shared with younger visitors.crusader holidays Travel forged victory allowing Britain’s darkest hour to also be her Finest Hour.

Motts Leisure - Spring 2018 Newsletter - FINAL.qxp_Layout 1 12/03/2018 15:22 Page class 2Torquay hotelier, all without It is hoped there will be a fly (Mar18) past from mentioning the war! Room, the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight both February 10, – conditions).

4 days days. (Subject to 2017 weather dinner & breakfast plus live (Senior) £24 (Child 6-16) Thur July 19th 2018 Price: £33 (Adult) £31 The Feast of SaintWatermill Valentine will evolved into each an occasion in which lovers used Mapledurham be open entertainment from ‘the staff’. to express their affection for each other by presenting flowers, offering day and visitors can see flour being milled This 2 day tour is from restricted joining points in confectionery and sending greeting cards.

These days it is also the perfect and sample the miller’s wife’s baking. There Bucks, Beds, Oxon and some Hertfordshire points. opportunity to take your loved one awaystreet for a short romantic break. will be children’s activities, traders and Sherman tank To ensure an unforgettable and enjoyable Valentine’s, we’ve come with sea facing hotel food, a licenced bar and a 1940s Tea Room.

Enjoy 4 nights in up a lovely that featured in ideas plan your weekend.

Your includes a in Eastbourne.

Newthat thisshould year ishelp the you guest appearance of onweekend the flat promenade The location of the 1960's film 'The Eagle Has Landed' is an apt venue the block buster special gift for ladies so76mm look forSherman the Valentine. for Old Phyllis, thethe up-gunned ThisMapledurham special offer includes andfrom all over the country will at War. breakfast Re-enactors movie “Fury” tank that featured in the block buster movie dinner plus the terrace at the converge onfrom the beautiful Mapledurham Estate to set up camp as if it starring Brad S PECIAL trucks, tanks “Furyfrom ” starring Pitt. Fresh a3 hotelduring enjoy an included bubbly Beds,Brad Bucks, Herts, from & Oxon were World War glass 2 for of the entire weekend. Army Pitt. Fresh from Look atofour new year nut-and-bolt restoration, come and see Osite Fstyle FEwhilst whilst listening to thethe Concert Band R! the camp and cars will convey troops around the a 3 year 2017 brochure – out in her in all her glory. the RBL -will a truly iconic that is that time. Wartime amphibious MARCH displays show howtradition life was during nut-and-bolt September. celebrated Wednesday evening, nd chosen ITINERARY: Join coach at22 your jeeps will beevery “swimming” in the mill pond. Authentic battles will take restoration, Thursday consisting a culmination of concert music from the period will point, travel to Caversham Lock for 10am place eachof day and£275 musicians and dancers come and see Some of our holidays kewPark, Gardens £36 Romantic Wokefield Berkshire with Snowdrop Walk (HB) ending triumphantly proms cruise to Mapledurham. Enjoy the attractions, entertain the troops. with traditional her in all her glory.

The Cumberland Hotel, Grand Parade, are already on our th Warner – Gunton Hall, Suffolk - Top Mars (HB) £259 Sunday 25Tribute favourites and Tchaikovsky's 1812 overture re-enactments and displays.

CruiseParty: backTake atThat & Bruno Christine Wallace from the Great British Bake Off will be website and don’tEastbourne.

Mill Rythearriving - Hayling – Moonlight &£34 Roses (HB) £219 • Licenced bar* • Hot accompanied bysome a spectacular Firework 4.45pm at Caversham 5.30pm Ideal Island Home showat demonstrating war time ration recipes sharing stories with forget the early and Travel Insurance £27 • 1940s Tea Room • M where your(BB) coach awaits to bring you home. display.

Excursions included to Dungerness Amsterdam £279 Jill Vallis of what life was like for those discount left at home. booking APRIL & Rye – Battle &a Hastings.

Single Room Supplement nil (limited) RomanticINCLUDES: Paris (BB) £279 There will be Memory Board PRICE Luxury Coach ITINERARy: After joini offer!for visitors to add their memories or Easter Sunday Luxembourg & Roman Trierfrom (HB) family stories. Her £259 cookware kitchen will be no doubt be a reminiscing Travel; Return Cruise Caversham Caversham Lock to boa th Bournemouth Monday April 30 – Fridayvisitors.

May 4th 2018 6 Days – only £275 toMedieval Mapledurham Cruisers; opportunity to be shared with younger attractions, re-enactme Bruges (BB)with Thames £23 £289 Visit www.crusader-holidays.co.uk to book now

Valentine Weekends - Love is in the air!

1812 Firework & Proms Concert – Eastbourne DIAry DATes Mapledurham At War

sHorT BreAks AND DAy TrIPs

All-New 2017 Brochure

It is hoped there will be a fly past from the Battle of Britain Memorial back at Caversham at 1 Flight both days. (Subject to change due to weather conditions).

GRThe PRICE INCLUDES: EAT Mapledurham Watermill will be open each day where visitors will Vbe Easter Monday ALable Luxury Coach Travel • UEto see the flour being milled and sample the baking from the !

Plus 3 Course Carvery – Thursday May 17th 2018 £79 Margate £23 millers wife. There will be children's activities, traders and street food.

• Return Cruise from Ca Matinee at the ‘Shaftesbury Theatre’, 14:30hrs.to Mapledu New this year guest appearance of Performance Old Phyllis, the up-gunned 76mm • Entrance Tuesday 3rd The Presidents Hotel for your 3 course Carvery after, Gordy woburn safari Park £43 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 founded Motown in2LD 1959, Crusader Holiday Shop, 4 Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20when 1BH race relations in America th Saturday June 16 2018 Price: (Adult) (Senior) Wednesday 4th Holidays, 13 Crusader Business Park, Stephenson Crusader Road West, Clacton, Essex, CO15teens 4HP were were at a pivotal point – white going crazy for the www.facebook.com/mottstravel Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018 Hampton Court Palace £44 Please see our current brochure for booking conditions rhythm and blues produced by black artists and the time was and trading charter. right for Berry Gordy to make history. th

Easter Sunday stratford Upon Avon £23

THEATRE TRIPon– 01296 MOTOWN For more information contact our reservations department 336666 Holidays: www.crusader-holidays.co.uk

Day Trips: www.mottsholidays.co.uk

£47

6

£45

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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

8

A riot of colour

34

Wargen needs you!

11

Win a £100 John Lewis voucher

37

Local firm plugs skills gap

Vanity is all!

38

How many hats?

Winning formula

40

Killer kitchen

Is there a best diet?

47

Making plans

19

Get in the swing girls

52

Sense of Community

20

It’s elemental

58

On a roll!

23

Put spring in your step

62

Music maestro!

25

Win a Reboot day

65

Win tickets to Beaconfest

26

Splash out for Spring

66

So Russell, what’s on?!

28

Going Rogue

67

Portrait of an artist

31

Men join Midnight Walk

71

Glass of sunshine

33

Grief affects us all

72

Road to the future

14 17 18

New season fashions with Katy Dyer

Fabulous fashions from your favourite store Techno treatment gets amazing results National recognition for Whitchurch salon Wise words from nutritionist Maria Up your steps out on the course Be happy and healthy with a five element life Get back on your feet at Feet First Kick start your fitness regime Why not join a swimming club?

Bowling and Karting under one roof Bold move by local charity

How to help your grieving children

Remember the war? Please get in touch!

Company creates IT apprenticeships No time for you? Call for Roo! How to design the hub of the home Buying a plot is just the start Fencing firm has cash to splash Turf experts open local depot Lots to hear at The Waterside

Family festival is just up the road New columnist waxes lyrical

Sandra’s been to Claydon House Warm your cockles with this deli selection ‘Volvo are walking’, it says Alan

Kebabs are coming home!

G

ourmets the world over have oft debated what might be the perfect accompaniment to that king of fast food, the kebab. In Thame nothing less than the finest Champagne will do though as the town’s awardwinning Atalay Kebab Van, (or Le Vanoir as local celebrity chef, Raymond Blanc probably likes to call it) has only gone and done it again!

Turkish-born Resul Atalay, his twin sons Jason and Josh, two daughters and team have scooped first prize in the best kebab van category in the National Kebab

C

ongratulations to the following Feb/Mar edition competition winners! Hopefully your prizes will have arrived by now, please let us know

Resul started his business in 1988 and makes his own Doner from scratch, while his homemade chilli sauce has no less than 30 ingredients!

“We use British lamb and local, fresh ingredients,” says Resul, who went on to thank his Thame customers for their input over the Resul, Jason and Josh with their award years: “They are knowledgeable Awards for the second year running about food in Thame,” he said, and that is quite something, when “We’ve done this together.” you consider just how much The media have not been slow to competition there is across the pick up on this story and the Atalay country - 5,012 vans were actually team were featured on BBC South nominated and a shortlist of 153 Today, BBC’s Saturday Kitchen then judged. and on Chris Evans’ BBC Radio 2

if not. Commiserations to those who weren’t so lucky - read on though for more competitions inside this edition, including the chance to win: A meal for two at

The Black Horse, Thame; a copy of Woodworking; £100 voucher for John Lewis; £50 voucher to Rogue Leisure; and tickets to Beaconfest.

Last issue’s prizewinners

were: A meal for two at the The Three Pigeons: Nigel Fletcher, Ickford A copy of The Dog: A Natural History: Kim Stock, Aylesbury

Breakfast Show. On his handover to DJ Ken Bruce at the end of his session kebabs were mentioned again, with Ken admitting proudly that the winner of the National title was indeed his own local kebab van (Ken lives near Thame) and that he’d sampled their fare more than once...

Congratulations to all the Atalay team, from Vale Life Magazine, it’s an amazing achievement, now where did I put that Champagne!

Charlie Editor, Vale Life Magazine Tickets to the National Wedding Show: Sue Roberts, Aylesbury A copy of Pigeon Street: Alison Lowndes-Knight, Wendover

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 : Mar/Apr 2018

7

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

A riot of colour!

S

Topshop pring is finally here with Green Stripe catwalks, boutique rails, Jumpsuit magazines and shop £69 windows a riot of colour.

If you do nothing else this season, sport something bold and bright – it’s this season’s unmissable trend.

Once we break out of winter into Spring it is a joy to shed some of those winter layers, feel the sun on your skin and create outfits that feel altogether lighter. Here’s how to work the best of the seasons trends and spot those that have returned and which you can effortlessly rework from your current wardrobe.

M&S Autograph print dress £79

Kin by John Lewis 8

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Print & Pattern If you love mixing it up, then this trend is a must for you. Choose paisley with check and spots with stripes for creative flair. If wearing pattern is not you (perhaps it makes you feel a little seasick), then choose pattern in accessories or even in the lining of jackets and bags. There are many easy to wear one-piece dresses and jumpsuits in print that do it all; accessories not required. Worthwhile trying bolder prints before buying – bigger prints will work brilliantly on those who are taller or larger

less expensive tops and tees.

Suit the city Whilst the workplace has got noticeably Unusual colourways more relaxed over Could it be the the past couple of beginning of a backlash decades, suits are from all of that Scandi definitely back – grey, blue and black and not just for the – SS18 is a veritable office. Key is matching separates explosion of colour, - trousers, skirts, jackets, dresses and anything goes. and even waistcoats. Choose light Pantone describe their colour of grey or airforce blue for summer; the year, Ultra Violet as “Conveying gunmetal, black or midnight for originality and ingenuity, the magical longevity. And always, always invest Ultra Violet is a distinctive and in two pairs of trousers (or trouser complex purple shade that fascinates & skirt) for every suit jacket - the and intrigues.” If this inspires you, bottom half will always be worn try this distinctive bold purple in more and require cleaning more you wardrobe with accessories or often than the jacket. framed; for petites try a smaller print perhaps teamed with a statement accent.

Topshop Silver Trench £79

And the trends that never really went away…

Lace Up Ever since that lace wedding dress worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, it has been a regular theme on the catwalks, so it’s likely you already own some. Lace is still a great trend and can be included in outfits from tops and dresses to trainers and suits all tastes - can you spot it in menswear too?

Topshop Pink Fur Waist Bag £25

M&S Limited Edition Gingham Trench Coat £89

Make it a Trench Possibly the ultimate investment piece - a real Spring classic that never goes out of style, if you don’t already own a trench coat then now is the time to buy one. Keeping it classic, opt for navy, taupe or a monochrome puppytooth check. Kelly green along with pastel pink, blue or lemon are perfect for spring and more versatile than you

Helen Grace Beautifully hand crafted stylish hats and fascinators for all occasions To buy or hire Come and try on our wonderful hats and fascinators in the privacy of our studio in Shabbington Simply call for an appointment on 01844 201017

www.helengracehats.co.uk

Sew Claire Dancewear & Accessories Image Style Colour Corporate

l Wide range of Ballet, Tap, Dance, Cheer & Gymnastic Clothing, Bags & Accessories l All types of Dance Shoes l Approved Pointe Shoe Specialist l We can also Personalise your Dancewear & Accessories for that unique look or perfect present

Wardrobe Review Personal Shopping Group Consultations & Workshops

01844 872 025 katy@katydyer.com www.katydyer.com

Sew Claire

Find us on Facebook or pop in to: 25 Duck Farm Court, Station Way, Aylesbury, HP20 2SQ Tel: 01296 706418 Email: sewclaire@hotmail.co.uk Web: www.sewclaire.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

9

might think.

Stick your neck out High necklines have been popular throughout Autumn/Winter and are here to stay for Spring. Enjoy them early on in the season, the ideal opportunity to inject some colour into your wardrobe. Perfect for layering under pinafores, dresses and teaming up with your favourite knitwear too.

Fashion Forecast Here’s the lowdown on shorter lived fashion looks that may fade away by the Autumn - choose them now, if you dare!

Bum & belt bags – if this is for you, you can choose in designer or high street, leather, faux fur or fringed. Not expected to be a longlived trend.

Topman Summer Campaign

Shoulder shrug - volume and frou-frou on shoulders, perhaps a backlash against last year’s cold shoulder and certainly a great way to give the silhouette a more hourglass look. Excellent choice in a light but structured fabric for summer cover up.

Pastel boots - perhaps an

Topman Black Lace Shirt £38 oxymoron, but pretty with skirts and to add a feminine touch to weekend denimwear; consider as an investment for next spring and summer too.

Whatever your style, budget or frame Spring is the perfect time to give your wardrobe a workout and revisit your favourite looks. Mix it up, be creative and most of all, don’t be afraid to be seen. l Katy Dyer is a style coach and corporate image consultant and works with people of all ages, stages and backgrounds to help them present themselves at their very best. Because when you look good, you feel good.

Find out more at www.katydyer.com or simply call 01844 872 025.

Crew Clothing Towan Slim Check Shirt £69

Spring / Summer 2018 shoe range now in stock

‘Excellence for all your foot care needs’

We stock an exciting range of DB Wider Fit Shoes for men and women - a stylish combination of elegance and comfort.

The new Spring / Summer 2018 range is here now, including colourful espadrilles, pretty floral printed leathers, super-comfy casual flats and more...

Our ladies collection offers footwear that will pamper your feet all day long, but allow you to step out in style.

Having wide feet needn’t mean you have to sacrifice elegance or quality. DB footwear incorporates the comfort of a wide fitting shoe and a deeper toe box, with a pretty and graceful silhouette.

Our men’s range combines comfort, value and craftsmanship.

Our shoe shop is open 9.30am to 4.30pm, Mon/Tue/Wed & Fri, when our trained shoe fitter will be available for a drop-in service (closed 1-2pm).

Feet First, 13a Upper High Street, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3ER Tel: 01844 261023 Email: enquiries@feet-first.org www.feet-first.org 10

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Win a £100 voucher for John Lewis

K

in clothing by John Lewis is made for modern life. Affordable, well designed, contemporary yet timeless.

Inspired by Japanese and Scandinavian cultures the Spring Summer 18 collection has a utilitarian identity and hints of sportswear with jersey detailing.

Highlights include a tie detail trench designed for transeasonal dressing and a denim tunic dress worn over a high neck collar.

Primary colours in pops of yellow, blue and red are featured alongside bold prints and breton stripes.

Complementing the collection, giant oversized bags take centre stage alongside the classic white trainer and v-neck heels.

Kin by John Lewis welcomes the return of graphic designer Laura Slater with a capsule collection that combines her modernist prints with oversized silhouettes. Inspired by architecture from a summer spent in California, Laura explores layering of graphic shapes, linear detail and repeat block patterns.

Laura’s print story is found across tops, skirts, dresses, trousers and jackets in a 16 piece collection.

Modern Rarity is dedicated to design and devoted to quality, redefining luxury, from beautifully soft Italian knitwear to delicate sandwashed silks.

The collection features relaxed tailoring and lightweight linen for Spring Summer 18.

Eudon Choi has designed seven dresses in luxurious silks, including an asymmetric split sleeve dress

featuring a floral print that has been reinterpreted from the the John Lewis archive along with a standout maxi dress in a fiery red guaranteed to make a statement.

Sitting alongside the ready to wear, accessories include bow tie kitten heels, snake print slippers and supple leather hobo bags.

To complement the collection, modern rarity has introduced intricately designed jewellery made from sterling silver plated with 18 carat rose or yellow gold including

pave set diamonds.

New for the season, modern rarity launches lingerie which features delicate lace and archive prints.

AND/OR is the newest of the John Lewis own brands - an inhouse denim lifestyle brand with authentically L.A. crafted denim at its heart. It is complemented by an impressive range of versatile womenswear, shoes, accessories and lingerie. Playful and youthful, the label channels ease and effortlessness and comprises pieces that seamlessly slot into any wardrobe.

If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning a £100 voucher to spend at John Lewis Wycombe, simply email your name, address and telephone number along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk For which John Lewis label is Laura Slater designing?

Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by April 20th, 2018. l www.johnlewis.com

www.risbgallery.com • 01844 345306

Risborough Gallery now stocking rare signed film & prop memorabilia!!

•

All of our signed memorabilia comes fully supported with AFTAL (autograph fair trade association) letters of authenticity.

•

Full money back guarantee if in the unlikely event your investment isn’t 100% genuine.

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The majority of our stock is utterly unique and most are one off items.

Our memorabilia sets us apart from all others by using the latest Laser cut mounts, anti-reflective UV protected glass, and hand finished frames.

Risborough Gallery, 17 Duke Street, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire HP27 0AT

0% Finance available

Receive 10% discount with this advert!

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Column: Nicky Gregory‘Curious World’

POW lucky charms

T

urkish soldiers held as prisoners of war in Egypt, Cyprus and Salonika, amongst other places, during and immediately after WWI used the culture and art from the Ottoman Empire to help them craft items to pass the time and alleviate boredom. They made things which could be given as gifts or souvenirs and were allowed to barter them for extra food or sell them to local shops and street vendors.

Best known are the beaded snakes. Lizards or salamanders were also popular, but these are now hard to find. The prisoners also used loomed threads and netting to make belts, purses, necklaces, bracelets, book marks and covered bottles.

Snakes made of beaded crochet, often with inscriptions or dates worked into the beading, were popular as they were considered to bring good fortune in some parts of south-east Europe. They range in

1920s snake choker with teeth

Beaded lizards

Nicky Gregory

Curious world

length from 13inches to 18 feet!

While most snakes and lizards were undoubtedly made in MiddleEastern camps, some were made by the one hundred Turkish men interned at Knockaloe Camp on the Isle of Man. A small cottage industry began to make beaded jewellery in England in the 1920/30s, this included snake necklaces, the most common with a flower motif. The head of the snake would pass through a loop of beads at the tail or have a mouth holding

a spring operated metal fastener that could ‘bite’ the tail.

Our Feb/Mar edition mystery objects were Victorian Pastry Cutters. Can you guess what this one below is?

Email your answers along with your name, address and contact telephone number to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Winner to be notified by email. 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

Mystery object

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 Room, 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.

Horn Handled Gooseberry Hook (£98) used for pruning gooseberry bushes - the long shank to the blade helps to avoid the sharp spikes on the branches.

The Old Post Office, 25 High Street, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 6DU Tel: 01296 625335 Email: antiques@antiquesatwendover.co.uk Website: www.antiquesatwendover.co.uk 12

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Sally Evans is back with an exceptional line up of Artists & Makers for this year’s fairs, taking place in Thame, Haddenham and Princes Risborough. Pop along for a voyage of discovery and delight in finding something new and unusual from her fascinating collection of local talent...

S

ally Evans Artists & Makers Fairs bring together an eclectic mix of creativity from local artists and craftspeople, offering visitors the chance to find some truly unique items and to meet the people who made them.

Sally’s fairs showcase our best home grown talent and are always a delight to attend. She has been organising these events since 2004 and has a loyal following of both buyers and exhibitors who return to her events time and again and a real variety of techniques on display too, such as Hazel Williams who transforms original sketches and photographs onto paper, acrylic, glass and wood using a flatbed laser.

“Our relatively new venue - Bradmoor Farm Shop at Haddenham is working really well,” says Sally. “It has a fabulous event space with lots of lovely natural light to show off the work of our talented artists who come here from all over Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire and Hertfordshire. There’s a café on site too which does a great Sunday carvery lunch (best to book ahead) and plenty of car parking right outside. Do come and join us. l Sally Evans Artists & Makers Fairs Contact Sally on: 01844 273069 Email: hello@sallyevansevents.com Web: www.sallyevansevents.com Thame Town Hall / Princes Risborough Community Centre, Stratton Road, HP27 9AX / Bradmoor Farm (Stanbridge Road, Haddenham, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8JX)

Featured Artist: Elizabeth Bond

The Smart Stitcher

Elizabeth studied at the Royal School of Needlework on their three-year apprenticeship, learning how to stitch anything with expertise and afterwards working with leather seemed a natural progression, demanding accuracy and skill. Now in her spare time, when not teaching in a busy secondary school, she loves creating bespoke products for people from leather - belts, bags, gloves, accessories, shoes...

She also teaches locally at Queen’s Park Arts Centre.

Featured Artist: Elaine McDermott www.elainemcdermott.com Elaine has enjoyed making jewellery in her little workshop for the past 17 years.

She creates individual pieces with glass, enamel, silver and mixed base metals and loves the reward of making commissions.

“My work is usually organic, incorporating

Featured Artist: William Rolls William originally worked out of a back garden studio in Buckinghamshire but moved to Hereford to take a degree in Contemporary Applied Arts at the College of Arts.

Having reaffirmed his passion for ceramics he went on to gain an MA in Contemporary Craft, investigating glazing and finishing techniques in much greater detail.

This lead to invitations to exhibit at The Mall Galleries, London, FreshAir Quennington

texture and colour, inspired from my walks in the beautiful Chiltern countryside,” says Elaine, “and from my trips to our home in the stunning Ronda Valley in Southern Spain.”

William strives to capture not just the physicality of the subject but something of their emotion and the subtle interplay between human and dog. Each piece he creates is unique and often with a specific dog in mind. and Art in Clay at Hatfield to name a few.

During his studies William developed a passion for creating studies of dogs. Their infinite variety and intrinsic qualities really inspired him and lead to an ever expanding diversity of outcomes.

April 7th: Thame Town Hall April 28/29th: Bradmoor Farm May 12th: Thame Town Hall September 29th: Thame Town Hall October 20th: Thame Town Hall November 10th: Princes Risborough Community Centre November 24th: Thame Town Hall December 1st: Thame Town Hall December 8th/9th: Bradmoor Farm 10am to 4pm Free entry Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Amanda Trott

l Column

Would you like to lose inches from your tummy, waist and hips without exercising Amanda Trott or starving for several weeks!? Technology is a wonderful thing and with the right EXPECT REsulTs equipment it’s now possible to do just that! Hooray for The Vanity Project...

Beauty Spot

M

eet Becci Sutcliffe, owner of Aylesbury-based beauty business, The Vanity Project.

To say that Becci is an avid learner would be an understatement! Originally trained as a hairdresser, she soon recognised the fact that women, all too often, have very little self confidence and are frequently critical of their own looks.

Being interested in the beauty industry, she decided to learn about the various new noninvasive body contouring machines that are available and is now a real expert. She noticed that one of the areas so many of her clients were unhappy with was their body shape or weight and after much research, she decided to invest in Lipofirm Pro technology.

Lipofirm Pro combines two technologies simultaneously in a single applicator and is extremely popular with celebrities and medical professionals alike, as it removes fat, tightens skin and tones muscle whilst also reducing cellulite, improving skin texture and aiding circulation and lymphatic drainage.

It is a specialist device which uses Dynamic Muscle Activation and Radio Frequency to remove fat and tighten the skin by literally squeezing the fat cells. An ultrasound device is used to firmly massage the chosen area, destroying the fat cells, which will then be removed naturally by the body, through the lymphatic system.

Results can be seen after the first treatment, but to achieve the best results, a course is usually required. The results are permanent, as long as you maintain a healthy diet, and will continue to improve over the days following your treatment.

Becci invited me along to test the machine that all the celebs are raving about and see the results for myself. Before starting, she takes photos and specific measurements which she records on a chart. She then applies a gel to help the wand glide across the skin before setting the machine to the correct temperature.

Pressure is applied through the heated wand which some people find uncomfortable but I actually found quite pleasant, not unlike having a deep tissue massage.

The only slight discomfort from time to time was a pulse, which would make the muscle contract and was similar to that of an elastic band pinging against my skin.

Becci explained that some people do have 14

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Circumference Reduction

Before

Measuring before treatment Treatment areas

After 5 Treatments

Courtesy of Carolina Bravo Lobos, M.D., Valdivia, Chile

Cellulite Reduction

Before

Face

After 6 Treatments

Neck Back

Arms

Waist

Tummy

Buttocks Hands

Inner Thighs

EXPECT REsulTs Thighs & Knees

Back Thigh Calves

Circumference Reduction

Before

Ankles

After 5 Treatments

Lipofirm Pro effects on previous customer

Courtesy of Carolina Bravo Lobos, M.D., Valdivia, Chile

a certain amount of bruising post treatment Cellulite which isReduction nothing to worry about and others liken it toBefore the feeling you getAfter after6 Treatments a gym work out. The treatment takes about half an hour but Becci likes her clients to allow an hour to give time for some pre and post photos and measurements, so you can gauge your progress.

Stripping offPelletier, to your undies showing a Courtesy of Michele M.D., Toulon,and France stranger your lumps and bumps is something Cellulite most of Reduction us feel rather shy about, let alone having them you,4but Becci Beforetake photos of After treatments very quickly puts you at ease with her super friendly and professional manner. Clearly she is passionate about what she does and is full of knowledge and enthusiasm.

At the end of the session Becci measured me in exactly the same places, to see what had happened and I was astounded to see a loss of 6cm! With a big birthday and a beach holiday on the horizon, I decided to take theChile plunge Courtesy of Carolina Bravo Lobos, M.D., Valdivia, and book another three sessions!

Becci usually recommends 7 days between each, so if you have a holiday or a®special AsK Trilipo occasionAbOuT coming up, you can achieve great

FACIAl TREATMENTs

AsK HOW Trilipo TREATMENTs CAN GIVE YOu Lipofirm Pro effects on previous customer THE sHAPE Y WANT. AsK AbOuT Trilipo Courtesy of Michele Pelletier, M.D., Toulon, France

Becci using the LipofirmBefore Pro

Cellulite Reduction

® After 4 treatments

results in a relatively short space of time.

Three weeks later at the end of my 4th treatment I was delighted to have lost a total of 17cm from my tummy, waist and hips!! ® Not only am I very impressed with the results of the Lipofirm Pro, Becci’s expertise FACIAl TREATMENTs has played a huge part in my results through her friendly, professional manner, training and knowledge of the system. I shall certainly be booking another course with her!

If you would like to know more about this or some of the other innovative treatments Becci has on offer, you can call her on: 07717 444 640, email her at info@thevanityproject or go to www.thevanityproject.co.uk for more Obelis s.a, Boulevard Général Wahis 53, 1030 Bruss information.

Tel: +(32) 2.732.59.54, Fax: +(32) 2.732.60.03, E-Mail: m Courtesy of Carolina Bravo Lobos, M.D., Valdivia, Chile

© 2012 Pollogen Ltd. All rights reserved. Trademar

l Becci Sutcliffe, The Vanity Project, Apollo, RegenXL, TopJen, Maximus, Geneo, NeoRevive, Neo

TriPollar, TriLipo, TriFractional, OxyGeneo, Hybrid Energy a Wendover Road, Aylesbury all trademarks of Pollogen Ltd. TriPollar, TriLipo, TriFraction Tel: 07717 444640, Energy and Hybrid Energy are proprietary technologies o Email: info@thevanityproject TriPollar and TriLipo are proprietary technologies of Website: www.thevanityproject.co.uk

l To contact Amanda with regard to Beauty Spot www.pollogen.com features please email: editor@vale-life.co.uk 11600107 \ Rev 3 \ Feb. 2013

Health & Fitness l Column:

Life Bites with Sarah Virág

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Are you taking it easy?

A

re you cruising the comfort zone?

The fact is, if you want to make the most of life, and do significant things, then you’ll have to push beyond this invisible boundary time and time again.

But can you actually recall the last time you did something that really challenged you? Something that changed your perspective, and maybe even shook up your world a little?

How about these everyday examples of things that unsettle us; Mastering new skills? Public speaking? Uprooting to new places - or facing a room full of strangers?

In short? Falsely believing that we can’t do things.

New or slightly uncomfortable situations can really shake our confidence. They make us feel vulnerable, and exposed to failure, criticism or even possible ridicule if we can’t follow through.

Interestingly, we’re supposedly born with only two universal fears; the fear of falling, and the fear of

loud noises. Everything else comes from you!

So, the next time you sail towards the border of your own comfort zone, bear in mind these useful thoughts: Recognise Your Fear. Consider exactly what‘s holding you back.

Is it dangerous? Risky? Often, the only thing that separates those who succeed from those who fail is the ability to push through perceived fear.

Acknowledge The Value.

Growth, solutions and huge satisfaction all come from the other

side of the comfort zone. But only if you‘re brave enough to push though the invisible barrier in the first place.

Don’t Overthink It. Sometimes we learn the best life lessons of all when we jump into something feeling unprepared. When we feel the fear - and do it anyway!

Celebrate What You Just Did. Congratulations! Every single time you do something out of the ordinary (for you), you‘re expanding personal horizons.

Definitely something to be proud of.

Do you know the true

Sarah Vir á g Confidence Coach retrospective wonder of stepping out of old, familiar behaviours?

It’s that you learn so much about yourself.

And GROW. Is there something new you can push yourself to experience today?

Go on! Try life beyond the comfort zone...

Sarah xo l Sarah Virág BA (Hons), is a

Confidence Coach, Writer, former Global Events Manager, Mother of three and Author of ‘Wings for Life: Your Pathway To Freedom After Emotional Upheaval.’

Email: sarah@sarah-virag.com Website: www.sarah-virag.com

A salon with over 10 years experience, specialising in re-styles,

For all your beauty needs

colour work, hair and makeup for weddings and parties.

Unit 5, Layby Farm, Stoke Mandeville Buckinghamshire HP22 5XJ

01296 338 344

07771 330366 laura.gilbey@hiddenbeautyaylesbury.co.uk www.hiddenbeautyaylesbury.co.uk

To book an appointment call or pop in

Duck Farm Court, Station Way, Aylesbury, HP20 2SQ

fb.com/saffronhair.uk

info@saffronhair.uk

Charlotte Mobile Hairdresser Professional Hairdressing for

ANTONIA BARNES MCFHP MAFHP FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONER

II CAN CAN TREAT TREATCorns, Corns,calluses, calluses,cracked crackedheels, heels, nail problems, thickened nails and can treat nail problems, thickened nails and can treat people who have diabetes. people who have diabetes.

II CAN CAN OFFER OFFERVisits Visitsininthe thecomfort comfort of of your your own home, a warm attitude, generalroom, foot care own home or atcaring my Thame treatment including regular nail cutting and filing and a a warm caring attitude, general foot care foot massage at the of your including regular nailend cutting and treatment. filing and a foot massage at the end of your treatment.

TO ARRANGE A VISIT OR FOR MORE TO ARRANGE A VISIT OR FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT ANTONIA BARNES INFORMATION CONTACT ANTONIA BARNES 01844 261766 or 07795 01844 261766 or 07795 692464 692464 www.feetforlifethame.com www.feetforlifethame.com

Helping to keep your feet in a healthy condition Based in Thame, I am also a fully qualified massage therapist offering holistic massage and reflexology REGISTERED MEMBER OF THE BRITISH ASSOCIATION OF FOOT HEALTH PRACTITIONERS

Everyone All in the comfort of your own home

Over 12 years of salon experience Tel: 07479 939461 www.mobilehairdesign.com charlotte@mobilehairdesign.com • modern cutting techniques • colours (all types) • • colour correction • blow dry • curls & waves • • perms • sets • hair extensions • special occasions • Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

15

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Column: Fitness Focus with Guy & Mehmet

Health & Fitness

Keep on running...

A

s marathon season approaches many runners will be building their training for a specific event - a big challenge for anyone and a totally new experience as well for first timers. Here are some training tips from Phsiotherapist Mehmet Gem and Personal Trainer Guy Woodliffe-Thomas.

Mehmet: At this time of year many people take up running for the first time, or start trying to build on previous achievements, with longer distances or faster times, many with an ultimate challenge in mind. Preparation and planning is needed though to avoid injury. Tendon injuries are common among runners and need managing correctly, to get you back on track quickly for minimal impact on your training.

Many believe stretching is the answer to tendon pain, either in the heel or the knee, however that’s not

completely true. In fact it is more important to work on strengthening these muscles and tendon complexes, to ensure that they can cope with what you are asking of them. A great consultant once said to me, that eating an apple is healthy, but eating 3 a day, every day, all week long isn’t, and running is the same! Be sure to vary your training as much as possible.

Guy: Everyone wants to enjoy their training - you wouldn’t be putting yourself through it if you

Shape up for summer with Racquets 25+ classes each week including: HiiT Training * Yoga * Spinning Step * Body Pump * Fitball Circuits * Pilates * Boxing Ladies Squash Coaching Non members welcome Memberships available from only £1 per day

Crèche available Monday to Saturday for children aged 6 months to 4 years

Contact us now and start shaping up for summer Racquets-fitness-centre.com info@racquets-fitness-centre.com Tel: 01844 261754 16

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

didn’t enjoy it - and to remain healthy and injury free.

It’s standard procedure to increase your mileage progressively, in the build up to an event, but make sure you incorporate rest and recovery time into your training too. Try and alternate intense runs with lower impact sessions - for example a shorter run, a cross trainer or upright bike session, or perhaps even some Yoga or Pilates classes.

Strength and mobility should be a focus point in your training.

Correct usage of a Foam Roller both before and after your runs could help with mobility and performance.

Strength training, particularly aimed at your core, hips, and glutes, can help correct imbalances and the over use of certain muscles which could lead to injury. With consistency it will also improve running form and performance, which can result in fewer injuries

Guy & Mehmet

PT and Physiotherapist and more training days.

It’s all very well having the energy to make the distance but if your body isn’t strong enough you will never make the finish line.

Familiarise yourself with normal after workout soreness, but be aware of pains and listen to your body when it needs a rest day. l Mehmet Gem - Specialist

Physiotherapist, Nuffield Health Aylesbury / Tring Physiotherapy and Sports Injury Clinic.

Tel: 07785 475507 Twitter:@totallyphysio Guy Woodliffe-Thomas - Personal Trainer, Nuffield Health Aylesbury Tel:07791 596759 Facebook.com/gwtpersonaltrainer

Health & Beauty Vale Life : May/Jun 2016

There’s a lot happening at Whitchurch’s multi award-winning beauty salon, 4beauty - new equipment, new treatments, new therapist, another award... and yet it still remains an oasis of calm and tranquility, where you can relax and be pampered...

4

beauty at Whitchurch, near Aylesbury is celebrating its 12th anniversary this year. The business has flourished under the guidance of owner Ellen Aubrey whose strapline ‘a little bit of Mayfair in Whitchurch High Street’ - is an indication of the premium brands and high quality service offered and the reason for 4 beauty’s sophisticated clientelle.

Ellen is not one to rest on her laurels though, she is constantly updating treatments and services and keeps the salon and its range of sophisticated equipment up to date and in tip top condition.

In fact 4 beauty has just undergone a little rejuvenation therapy itself: there’s a new nail bar area, new flooring and two new pedicure stations, which are more comfortable and practical and it’s all looking rather splendid, although Ellen claims she still has a couple of finishing touches in mind!

On the staff front Lisa Giglio has now settled back in as a Full Time Senior Beauty Therapist. Lisa was part of the salon’s original line up and worked there part time from September 2008 to March 2014.

She has always been a highly regarded, extremely popular and professional therapist, who was much missed when she left, but has occasionally popped back to visit or help out.

Lisa is particularly welcome now as Sophie, who has been part of the team for 10 years, has sadly left to concentrate on bringing up her young family and Lisa Ridgley has left for pastures new as she wants to work closer to her home in Wycombe.

“We’ll miss them both,” says Ellen. “But I’m really happy with the way the salon has developed. I have a dream team in Lisa and

4beauty

4beauty reception and nail bar

Kelly, we’ve got a great client base - really lovely people, our products and services are top quality, we’ve won a third consecutive Guinot Crown salon award and have a Nationally recognised therapist in Kelly, it’s all good and I’m working on some interesting beauty and wellbeing ideas for later this year too. I am keen to offer natural beauty options alongside our hi-tech solutions and have been sourcing anti-ageing supplements and researching ways we can maintain our health and bodies from the inside as well as the outside.

“In that vein we have Lisa offering Decléor Facial Pilates Treatments, created to help reshape the contours of the face with a re-cushioning effect and deliver a natural lift. The treatments include a back massage to help you completely unwind plus a deep cleansing and three facial massages, bliss!” l 4beauty Ltd, 56 High Street, Whitchurch, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP22 4JS Tel: 01296 640644 Email: admin@4-beauty.com Web: www.4-beauty.com Instagram.com/4beautysalon Facebook.com/ellenaubrey4beautysalon

The new pedicure chairs

Kelly with her Guinot National Therapist Award

I

t doesn’t seem two years ago that Ellen and team were at The Guinot Awards in London, where Kelly, above, received her coveted Guinot Regional Therapist of the Year Award 2016 and met the wonderful Joanna Lumley, who hosted the awards ceremony.

But here we are in 2018 and the girls have had the glad rags out again as superstar Kelly went one better and having won the Guinot Regional Therapist Award 2018 took on the best therapists in the whole country in the Guinot National Therapist Award and was judged runner up! She received her trophy this year from none other than Gok Wan! “We are so proud of the effort, commitment, love and dedication she puts into her work,” says Ellen. “It shines through, as all of those lucky enough to have Guinot Facials with her know!

“Thank you to all the wonderful clients who have been right behind her, offering words of support and encouragement, it has truly meant the world to both her and me.”

Lisa R, Lisa G, Kelly and Ellen at the awards.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

17

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Column: Fitness Focus with Maria Bray

Health & Fitness

Is there a best diet?

W

e are constantly being bombarded, especially at this time of the year, with information about dieting; from basic food balancing to glamorous celebrity endorsed diets. After the month of overindulgence that is the festive season, we are a captive audience.

But before we jump on board we must consider - what suits us as an individual?

Is it healthy, is it realistic, what can I achieve following this diet, how much will it cost, and is it very different from how I eat now?

Take a deep cleansing breath and consider the fundamentals; most importantly, what are you wanting to achieve by changing your current diet?

Considering the plethora of diets out there, they are generally based on the principals of eating regularly, eating real foods and reducing processed non foods, the junk.

The details vary and some add food supplements together with lifestyle recommendations.

If you speak to an older member of your family, they may tell you regular meals, meat/fish and

If you are feeling sad, confused, worried, depressed, anxious, lonely, or just overwhelmed, I can help.

Whatever issue is troubling you, why not get in touch and we can find a solution together?

I am a qualified Therapist offering a flexible therapeutic service tailored to your needs and requirements.

Jaqui Supple Counselling

vegetables with plenty of fresh air and keeping yourself busy is more than adequate.

They may add that you need to eat recognisable foods rather than complicated and/or coded ingredients.

Whilst that is sound basic advice, is the quality of foods available the same as it was when your granny was a lass?

Another factor is your lifestyle, is it like that of this wiser older generation, most likely not.

What to do?

Importantly; dieting should be balanced to consider your long term health as well as your current short term goals. It is not just food, also your lifestyle, including sleep, activities, and relaxations.

However, generic advice can only go so far. Everyone is unique.

Two people on the same diet can experience vastly different results – have you noticed how some diets

Maria Bray Nutritionist

work for some but not others?

As a registered nutritional therapist I can help. I work with individuals going beyond generic advice to explore what works for that person’s body.

Nutritional therapy is about providing an analysis of how your body works, and providing a bespoke diet plan along with all the health benefits that can bring. l Maria Bray Nutritional Therapist,

Wendover, Buckinghamshire Tel: 01296 581561 Email: mjbfood4health@gmail.com Web: www.mariabraynutritional therapy.com

Practice Yoga...

Web: www.jaquisupplecounselling.co.uk Email: jaquisupple@gmail.com Tel: 07977904067 Facebook.com/jaquisupplecounselling

Maria Bray

...Everywhere

Nutritional Therapy

The Science of Health and Vitality l

Eat Well l Live Well l Feel Well

l

New Saturday morning Teen Clinic: ÂŁ30 for 1 hour session Take charge of your health - I can assist you to achieve your desired health improvements with a mutually agreed and appropriate stepped programme of dietary and lifestyle changes.

Diagnostic testing for: l Food intolerances / poor digestion l Vitamin D skin prick - overall health; bones, depression; skin; immunity l Homocysteine testing - heart health; brain health

Call for free half hour consultation

Tel: Maria on 0771 5414719 / 01296 581561

www.mariabraynutritionaltherapy.com

18

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

www.Everythingyogauk.com

Health & Fitness

l

Column: Fitness focus with Maria Darriba

Get in the swing girls

M

aybe you got a Fitbit for Christmas and you’re still wondering how to eek out another few thousand steps this week without doing the stairs, which by the way is good, but let’s face it, boring!

Let’s consider another much more enjoyable way of clocking up the miles that includes a great walk in beautiful surroundings, socialising with friends, and indulging those competitive urges.

Women’s golf has changed dramatically in a decade. As we celebrate 100 years since the first woman entered Parliament, it has taken nearly as long for the domination of men in golf to be swept into the history books!

The majority of golf clubs are struggling to attract new members.

Those with foresight are targeting women and girls to sign up. What we’re seeing now is total inclusion of women among the 2,500 golf

clubs in England. A national campaign headed by Sport England and England Golf have designed various incentives to attract girls and women into the sport that doesn’t cost the earth, won’t take up 4 hours of your day, and can be serious fun!

Golf is perfect because it ticks so many boxes. Health and wellbeing

Aylesbury Sports Massage For all your aches, pains and injuries Contact Clare Davies Hartwell, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire Tel: 01296 747477 Email: clare@aylesburysportsmassage.co.uk Website: www.aylesburysportsmassage.co.uk

are two hot topics because we all need more of it. Not only will you burn the calories walking the 10k steps around 18 holes of golf, but it does wonders for mental health as well. It promotes social interaction, requires focused concentration and is played outdoors in green lush attractive settings.

A study by the University of Essex found that exercising surrounded by pleasant landscapes has a much more positive effect on our self esteem than pounding a treadmill in the gym!

Golf is also a social game. You can team up in pairs or as a group of 3 making new friends along the way, enhancing relationships, and reducing any chances of feeling lonely. It’s a ‘no brainer’. Being outdoors in a relaxing environment and interacting with fellow golfers helps reduce stress levels which has great health benefits, like keeping blood pressure levels down.

So, what are you waiting for?

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Maria Darriba Chilrtern Forest GC Make that Fitbit really zing and locate a golf club near you. To find out more about what’s on offer, go to www.englandgolf.org for a list of clubs around Aylesbury. You could even come to the Coffee Mornings/ Open Days at Chiltern Forest Golf Club on Sunday 8th April 2018, and Monday, 14th May where I would be delighted to introduce you to our lady golfers and show you the course. l Maria Darriba is Ladies Captain

at Chiltern Forest Golf Club, nr Wendover www.chilternforest.co.uk

‘Movement for every body’ Welcoming, modern studio offering small group yoga & pilates classes, for all ages & abilities, in friendly, relaxing, professional environment Cross Keys House, New Road, Princes Risborough, Bucks, HP27 0LF Tel: 07793 387272 Email: enquiry@evolvepilatesphysio.co.uk Website: www.evolvehealthwellbeing.co.uk

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

www.thametherapyclinic.co.uk

Fitness, Wellness, Spin Classes Personal Training, Small Group Transformation Packages & Yoga T: 07973 222410 E: barker_emma@hotmail.com

Spininthame beinspiredbyemma Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Acupuncturist Rhiannon Griffiths is a wellness expert who runs courses and workshops helping others to live happier, healthier lives and to benefit from her own journey to wellness through her study and development of a ‘Five Element Life’, living in sync with nature and the seasons...

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hen someone is described as being ‘in their element’ whilst doing a particular task, job, or activity, we envisage a person who is happy, healthy, comfortable in themselves and enjoying life. As a traditional acupuncturist, Rhiannon Griffiths knows the key to living life ‘in your Element’ comes from the wisdom of Chinese Medicine.

“I work with the ancient theory that there are Five Elements in nature: Fire, Earth, Metal, Water and Wood,” explains Rhiannon.

“This is reflected in our bodies too but we all have one particular Element that we are most aligned to. This is our Element, our default setting, the one that shows itself the most in everything that we do.

“These ‘Element personality types’ provide a framework, helping us to understand ourselves more and thus to embrace our true selves.”

It has worked for Rhiannon, who writes from personal experience of her journey, from scared, anxious and depressed 14 year old, to gentle, quirky and self-accepting thirtysomething, in a new book, Notes to My Younger Self.

Rhiannon Griffiths Rhiannon was asked to write a chapter for Notes to My Younger Self, by Kezia Luckett, a former local businesswoman, who spearheads the online global movement “Women of Contribution” and is now based in Spain.

“I had heard a lot about Rhiannon and the amazing work she was doing locally, for many years before I finally met her,” says Kezia “and once I did, I couldn’t understand why we had not met or spoken sooner. She holds a space for everyone she meets, whether it is the waitress who served us our herbal teas, or the clients that come to her for numerous

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

ailments - as soon as you are in her presence you feel relaxed and comfortable in your own skin.

“It comes as no surprise then to discover that the story she shares with us in the book, is one of fully understanding what it means to be ourselves, to finally accept and love ourselves as we are.

“Rhiannon’s personal journey of discovery was not a simple one, but through the power of understanding the Five Elements, she was able to blossom into her true self, and is now on a mission to empower people globally with

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

this insight.”

Notes to My Younger Self is described as ‘a collection of 18 heart-warming stories of hope, wisdom and inspiration, written by women from around the world, in the form of notes to their younger selves.’

The book’s collective mission is to ‘pay forward’ knowledge and wisdom to other women, through the sharing of their own transformational times in life.

The project is also ‘paying it forward’ by donating to the #MoveToEndDV, founded by Meathead Movers, a company that provides free moving services to victims of domestic violence, all over the world.

Spring is proving a busy season for Rhiannon as she is also launching a brand new transformational coaching course called: Embrace Your Element – 9 weeks to life-changing self acceptance, which starts online in April.

It was created out of the journey she describes in Notes to My Younger Self, with the aim of helping others to live fully empowered by the in-depth understanding that comes from knowing your Element.

Not sure where to begin? Download Rhiannon’s newly redesigned FREE ebook: What Is My Element? - to learn more about this ancient tradition and see which of the Five Elements you might be.

Launch Party Rhiannon is holding a local launch party at The White House in Thame on Saturday 24th March, 3pm-5pm, to celebrate the book publication. You can buy a ticket on her website, which includes a signed paperback copy of the book, refreshments and other goodies.

An excerpt from Rhiannon’s letter to her 14-year-old self: “My dearest, darling Rhiannon – this is a healing letter for you, because I know how hard you are finding life right now in these teenage years, how scared you feel about the future and how overwhelming and terrifying everything feels… it’s paralysing, I know, and you cry, you really cry… and you wonder if things will ever feel any better, if you will ever be happy, or if you’re even capable of being happy, that perhaps it’s only for other people, not you, not us...

So, this is why I want to tell you all this now.

I want to tell you how knowing your dominant Element is so powerful and empowering. This is what I want for you right now. I want you to know that by understanding that you are a Water Element person, you can understand why you have these characteristics, emotions

Rhiannon and behaviours, why you feel different to those around you. I want you to know that being Water is OK, it is more than OK, it is perfect. I want you to know you are Water NOW, because it will help you to finally accept yourself, like yourself, LOVE yourself, and truly have permission to just be yourself. I don’t want you to have to wait another ten years to start to know this stuff; I want this for you NOW.” And when asked why it was so important for her to share her experiences, Rhiannon says: “We don’t need fixing or changing, we are not broken or lacking; we need permission to be the best versions of who we really are, who we ALREADY are. Understanding yourself through the lens of the Five Elements, allows you to breathe a sigh of relief.”

Rhiannon has been living, what she calls, a ‘Five Element Life’ for over a decade now; living in sync with nature, the cycles of the seasons, what our bodies and emotions need at differing times of the year to keep balanced and healthy on all levels.

In keeping with this way of life, she has a collection of online seasonal wellness courses, developed from her highly successful local workshops, available to download with tips on how to stay healthy, physically and emotionally.

‘Spring Health Boost’ has Chinese Medicine advice on hayfever, managing stress, food for Spring, recipes, and how now is the time to start moving forward with plans.

l Rhiannon Griffiths is a traditional acupuncturist, wellness coach, yin yoga teacher, author, and creator of The Five Element Life.

Her acupuncture clinics are based at Susannah Nicholas Health & Beauty in Princes Risborough and at The White House in Thame.

Tel: 01844 220 227 Web: www.rhiannongriffiths.com Twitter: @rg_acupuncture Rhiannon has spoken on over 20 radio stations, and has been a health expert for UK national newspapers, including The Guardian, the Daily Mirror and the Daily Mail. She regularly appears in national magazines including Top Sante, Natural Health Magazine, Woman, Healthy, OK Magazine, Women’s Fitness, Woman’s Health & BodyFit. She is the go-to acupuncturist for the media, celebrities and the general public.

One of Rhiannon’s clients, former professional dancer and champion of Strictly Come Dancing, Camilla Dallerup states, “I’m thankful for my acupuncture treatments with Rhiannon, it keeps my immune system strong, my body supple and injuries at bay.”

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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RO NE UT W ES !

IP G CH IN M TI

Tour de

Vale Bike Ride Sunday 10th June 2018 Stoke Mandeville Stadium t 01296 395995 e info@tourdevale.com #Tourdevale

www.tourdevale.com Supported by 22

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Charity Registration No. 265498

Health & Beauty l

Column: Fitness Focus with Jenney Klose

Put Spring in your step

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chilles Tendinopathy is caused by tears (or ruptures in severe cases) in the tendon which result in pain and thickening of the Achilles Tendon.

It takes a long time to heal and renders the sufferer unable to continue taking part in sports and other activities. A degenerative rather than inflammatory condition, it often occurs during sports, particularly running, but is not always associated with physical activity.

Heel Pain or Plantar Fasciitis is a very painful condition as a result of which your heel may hurt, feel hot or swell. The pain is a result of inflammation or microscopic tears of the plantar fascia. The fascia is a thin layer of tough tissue supporting the arch of the foot.

Often when you have plantar fasciitis, the pain is at its most

Heel bone Area of pain Plantar Fascia intense when you ESWT first get out of bed.

Sometimes it is noticeable at the beginning of an activity and then gets better as the body warms up. Prolonged standing may cause pain, as well. Severe plantar fasciitis pain can cause time off work and may lead to partial or total disability.

If you are suffering from either of these conditions, you will know

how painful and frustrating they can be. At Feet First, we offer an effective treatment called Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy or ESWT. Shockwaves accelerate the healing process by activating the body’s self-healing powers. They stimulate the metabolism and enhance the blood circulation.

Damaged tissue gradually regenerates and eventually heals. Usually, 3 to 5 treatments at weekly intervals are sufficient. Our website has more information.

Following treatments at Feet First patients have said: ‘The improvement has been quite spectacular... being little short of miraculous in my view’, ‘I have been totally free of pain for

Jenney Klose Podiatrist

over 2 years with no re-occurrence at all, a brilliant result’.

Feet First are a team of podiatrists who are passionate about foot care. Our aim is to keep you moving and we will do all we can to achieve this. At our newly refurbished clinic in Thame High Street, we provide a wide range of services for all your footcare needs, including specialist treatments for fungal nails, stubborn verrucae, achilles tendinopathy and plantar fasciitis. l Feet First, 13a Upper High

Street, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3ER Tel: 01844 261023 Email: enquiries@feet-first.org Web: www.feet-first.org

Do your dentures need fixing or replacing?

Our clinical dental technician, Roy, is a master craftsman who creates the ultimate in aesthetics for removable dentures.

The ‘True to Life’ technique incorporates tissue colour mapping using digital photography and individual tooth and gum characterisation. l

Onsite dental implant lab - fast and reliable service

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Easy parking onsite

Call Oakview Dental directly on: 01494 569466 to arrange an appointment

T: 01494 569466

Oakview Dental, Units 1 & 2 Ministry Wharf, Wycombe Road, Saunderton, Buckinghamshire, HP14 4HW

www.oakview-dental.co.uk

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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F_BAR_16531 Vale Life - Chalfont Lodge - 260 x 190mm (March Creative) V3.qxp_Layout 1 08/03/2018 15:49 Page 1

Personalised Care At Chalfont Lodge Care Centre

At Chalfont Lodge we understand finding the right care home can be a daunting decision, that’s why our friendly team are on hand to offer advice and guidance at a time to suit you.

Our stunningly refurbished home offers a range of care services whilst supporting independence and maintaining individual interests. With a varied activities programme and freshly prepared home-cooked meals, we pride ourselves on making everyone feel at home.

Classic Car Show and Open Day: Saturday 21st April 11am–3pm Whether you need urgent care or just some help and advice, our friendly team at Chalfont Lodge Care Centre are here when you need them.

Call: 01753 465 480 Denham Lane, Chalfont St. Peter, SL9 0QQ

Nursing Care • Dementia Care • Respite Care & Short Breaks

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www.barchester.com

Health & Fitness

WIN a Reboot day!

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ith the current focus on health, wellness and fitness has come an interest in taking time out to go on wellness or activity breaks such as fitness holidays, residential military bootcamps and yoga retreats to name a few.

People are starting to see exercise as more than a 3-timesa-week repetitive trip to the gym.

Exercise is a lifestyle, a way to meet new people and get involved in fun physical activities. It’s a way to challenge yourself, kick-start your metabolism and keep your mental fitness in tip top condition Regular exercise can have a profoundly positive impact on depression, anxiety, ADHD, and more. It also relieves stress, improves memory, helps you sleep better, and boosts your overall mood.

Inactive lifestyles can cause health problems, especially as we age. So why not challenge yourself and have fun at the same? Whether it’s walking the dog, hiking a

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

TYPICAL BMR TASTER DAY winner of Channel 4’s Four In a

• 8.30 Arrival and registration • 9:30 Training Session • 11:00 Snack • 11:30 Training Session • 13:00 Lunch • 14:00 Training Session • 15:30 Snack • 16:00 Training Session • 17:30 Dinner (if required) 10,000 step walk to begin - training sessions may include Hit/Boxing/Team Games/Circuit Training/Yoga Pilates Mindset and nutrition talks.

Bed TV show!

BMR combine the best of a retreat and a bootcamp, the aim being to help you reboot body and mind through exercise, good nutrition, sleep and positive mindset. During your stay their personal trainers will incorporate a variety of different exercises suitable for any age and fitness level. Group numbers are kept below 15 to ensure that everyone gets the support they need, and they mountain, playing tennis, swimming, offer post reboot support to help you stay on track. boxing or belly dancing, most During your stay there is a forms of activity can boost your variety of exercise programmes circulation, strength and stamina, such as; kettlebells, circuits, pilates, helping to banish stress. yoga, boxing and cardio and this is From activity and adventure combined with social events in the holidays to boot camp breaks evening, ensuring plenty of down to bespoke holistic fitness time and fun. programmes, there is a fitness BMR is run by TV and film holiday to suit you. actress Ann Marie Davies, (wife of If you are ready to take the next step, why not try out Body and Charlton Athletic and ex-MK Dons Manager Karl Robinson) and her Mind Reboot (BMR)? They are a business partner. residential fitness company based You can book for a long weekend, at Outfields Farm, Graze Hill Lane, midweek or a full week throughout Bedford. An amazing venue and a

Sheila and Ann Body & Mind Reboot the year from March to October.

For more information go to www.bodyandmindreboot.co.uk REBOOT today! #makeithappen

If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning a Taster day at Reboot (plus 50% off for a friend), simply email your name, address and telephone number along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Who runs BMR? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by April 20th, 2018. l Body & Mind Reboot, Outfields

Farm, Graze Hill Lane, Bedford, MK44 2SA Tel Ann: 07841 163238 or Sheila: 07854 134847 E: info@bodyandmindreboot.co.uk W: www.bodyandmindreboot.co.uk

Experts in Mobility and Healthcare Supplies Come and visit our new showroom at Watermead, Aylesbury or, if you can’t get to us - give us a call and we’ll visit you!

Specialists in ‘tilt in space’ riser recline chairs Lightweight wheelchairs Wide range of mobility scooters Extensive range of three/four wheeled walkers Bath and shower solutions Aids for daily living Profiling beds and stairlifts Discreet professional advice on continence management Advice and guidance on all aspects of mobility and personal care Equipment Hire Excellent after sales service and customer care 35 Lakeside, Watermead, Aylesbury, HP19 OFX | Tel: 01296 435607 | Web: www.theeasyliving.company Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Column: Fitness Focus with Geraldine Dodds

Health & Fitness

Splash out for Spring

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body’s weight, regular swimming is a great way to stay active for those with short-term aches and sprains, or people coping with long-term injuries.

wimming offers countless benefits for everyone, young and old. Whether you’re thinking of joining a local swimming club or splashing out on your own training pool, here are five reasons to make swimming a part of your life this spring.

1. Full body workout Swimming uses all the muscles in the body, no matter what stroke you choose. Exercising in the water makes the body work harder, too, since water is denser than air. So 30 minutes in the pool is worth 45 exercising on land. A light swim can burn up to 200 calories in just half an hour, which is double what you’ll burn on a gentle walk.

2. Great for stress-busting Couple regular swimming with a balanced and healthy diet and you’ll reap the benefits in so many ways: swimming can lower stress levels,

4. Sustainable and Fun People tend to enjoy swimming more than running or bike-riding: fact. Research has shown that roughly half of those who try a new exercise program will give up within a few months, whilst new swimmers are more likely to stick with it. reduce anxiety and depression, and improve sleep patterns. For these reasons alone it’s a great sport for children and teens to get involved in - and it’s a sociable thing to do with friends.

3. Supports the body Since water supports 90% of the

Thai Orchid Massage and Spa www.thaiorchidmassageaylesbury.co.uk

Traditional Thai Massage, Swedish Massage, Aromatherapy Body Massage, foot massage, herbal hot compress, back, head & neck massage 1 hour Aromatherapy Massage £40 1 hour Swedish Full Body Massage £40 1 hour Traditional Thai Massage £45

Reflexions Health & Leisure Centre

Buckingham Road, Watermead, Aylesbury, HP19 0FY

Tel: 01296 330311 Mobile: 07587 172659 parichat28091978@gmail.com

Kirsten Jane Therapies Natural Wellbeing Therapies for Mind, Body & Spirit

Registered and insured holistic therapist based in Whitchurch Massage, Aromatherapy, Reflexology, Holistic facials and nail care Member of the Federation of Holistic Therapists Drew’s Hair Salon, 62 High Street, Whitchurch, HP22 4JS E: wellbeing@kirsten-jane.co.uk T: 07526 596033 W: www.kirsten-jane.co.uk 26

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

5. No sweat!

You’ll never feel sweaty - no matter how hard you push yourself in the pool!

Thame Swimming Club is affiliated to the British Amateur Swimming Association.

Our focus is on the development of swimmers across a broad range

Thame Swimming Club of training levels. Swimmers who join the club learn good swimming technique, but they also learn to be part of a team that values sportsmanship and fair play.

The club is run solely by volunteers and is based at Thame Leisure Centre.

In February 2018 Thame Swimming Club was delighted to announce its new sponsor, local business Sundance Pools (www. sundancepools.co.uk / 01296 715071) suppliers of one-piece fibreglass swimming pools. l Geraldine Dodds is Membership Secretary at Thame Swimming

Club, Thame Leisure Centre, Oxford Road, Thame, Oxon, OX9 2BB (TLC: 01844 215607) E: secretary@thameswimming club.co.uk www.thameswimmingclub.co.uk

Suffering with Anxiety, Feeling Sad & Unhappy, Relationship problems Caring, empathetic & confidential ? help is available.

Hypnotherapy can & has helped many many people with these types of issues.

FREE initial consultation

Angie Elbourn Reg Hyp. MNRAH. CNHC (CNHC are the only registering body for Hypnotherapy that is recognised by the Dept of Health)

www.hypnohelp.co (just co no uk) 077756 77796

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MINDFULNESS COURSES SPRING 2018 LONG CRENDON

Matthew Ball

Business Development Manager & Audiologist FdSc BEng & BCom (Hons) MSHAA HCPC Reg.

My name is Matthew Ball. I am a fully qualified audiologist with many years of experience in the hearing care industry.

I have previously worked for the NHS and also a leading hearing aid manufacturer prior to joining the team at Aston Hearing.

FOR ALL LOCATIONS 01494 733840 ASTONHEARING.CO.UK

HEARING WELL AT CHAMPNEYS HEALTH SPA We are delighted to announce the opening of our newest hearing centre.

Located within the Health & Well Being Centre, Champneys Health Spa, Tring.

This centre opens alongside our already established centres operating in Amersham and Thame.

I specialise in adult hearing rehabilitation, clinical ear care and hearing aid technology.

I am delighted to be heading up the team at our new clinic at Champneys Health Spa, working closely with Your Doctor, allowing us to manage you and your family’s ear and hearing health.

Your auditory pathway plays an important role in shaping the brain’s development at all stages of life; from pre-lingual toddlers, through school, work and into retirement.

screening, clinical ear care (wax removal and infection management advice) to hearing and communication assessments, hearing rehabilitation and counselling.

We recognise that it is sometimes difficult to talk about hearing or to acknowledge there may be a problem. Often people just want a chat to find out more.

We encourage everyone to take their hearing seriously. If you are unable to hear well, even temporarily, your everyday life and social wellbeing can be affected and you can find yourself vulnerable in many situations.

Services also include tinnitus management and importantly the independent supply and management of all forms of hearing aid technology and ear protection. We also offer an emergency hearing assessment service to assist with any sudden changes in hearing which, if not managed quickly, could lead to long-term hearing difficulties.

To help with this, we run FREE Hear Today events including a monthly drop-in coffee morning, where you can speak to our audiologists and those with first-hand experience of living with hearing challenges. See our website for more details. Our Aston Hearing mobile unit will also be at World’s End Garden Centre in Wendover from 14-20th May, and the last Friday of every month.

At Aston Hearing we offer a range of hearing and ear care services for all the family. From specialist children’s hearing

For appointments at Amersham, Thame or Champneys or more information Please call 01494 733840 or visit www.astonhearing.co.uk Hearing & Communication Assessments

Microsuction Wax Removal

Child Hearing Assessments

Ear & Hearing Protection

Hearing Aid Fittings & Aftercare

Tinnitus Advice & Support

Independent Hearing and Ear Specialists working in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire. Est 1989.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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The impressive Rogue Racing karting track banked corner

Rogue Leisure’s spectacular bowling centre and indoor karting facility boasts 40,000ft2 of exciting activities for all ages, from Parent & Toddler bowling sessions to adrenalin filled Grand Prix karting...

Rogue Bowling

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hree and a half years ago Rogue Leisure Limited opened Rogue Bowling at Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury. An exciting state of the art facility with 14 lanes of quality bowling arcade set in spacious, comfortable, air-conditioned surroundings and with the added attraction of the Rogue Café and fully licenced bar, plus two bookable party rooms and plenty of free on-site parking, it has proved a massive hit and a fabulous addition to Aylesbury’s leisure facilities.

Later the addition, under the same roof, of Rogue Karting, an impressive racing arena, designed and constructed with the help of

specialist firm 360 Karting, doubled the excitement factor. It’s the first track of its kind in the UK and one of only a couple of kart tracks to boast an impressively banked corner (see top image).

More than 300 metres in length, the circuit consists of long straights and eight

Indoor Karting Easter Holiday Fun days £40 per driver per day: Monday 2nd April Wednesday 4th April Tuesday 10th April Thursday 12th April 9.30am-2.30pm.

Lunch included. Only £40 Just £10 to reserve a place, call: 01296 330567

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a er g in h lin ow W ouc ow bel v 0 e B ee £5 ogu g - s r R in fo ar t K or

The Rogue Bowling arcade competitive corners, which make for close and exciting racing, in a professional and atmospheric environment. It is good for up to ten karts at any one time with overtaking possible on all sections - if you have the talent and the bottle! Great for a group, party or corporate booking.

The track is a mix of concrete and wooden boards and very smooth - perfect when you’re sitting just inches above the ground in a 270cc kart travelling at speeds pushing 40mph! It took 12 weeks to construct, has a special grip painted surface and a hi tech, shock-absorbing safety barrier system.

Rogue’s fleet of high performance Sodi karts run on LPG and the 270cc Honda engines provide impressive acceleration, even from a standing start.

Rogue Racing is ideal for parties and can cater for groups small and large - kart and bowl packages are also available. It is suitable for all ages from eight to 80 years, assuming a minimum height of 1.3m, there’s a handy viewing area with vending machines and you can even hire a headcam and film the action as you take part!

The complex is clean, modern and stylish and while the colours and design of the karting arena tie in nicely with the bowling centre, the track area retains a thrilling atmosphere of edgy excitement.

Karting costs from £20 for 15 minutes (two sessions £36; 3 sessions £47; 4 sessions £57).

‘Arrive and Drive’ sessions are possible any day of the week but it’s best to phone first and check availability or book in advance (subject to T&Cs).

Coaching sessions are available for those who would like to progress their driving.

Some Rogue karters have gone on to begin successful racing careers, moving from karting to racing sports cars in series such as the Ginnetta Junior or GT5 Championships.

Kadet Training for ages 8-15 years (and over 1.3m tall), takes place on Wednesdays from 5pm. It’s aimed at novice drivers, giving them the confidence to drive on track safely and with other drivers of similar age and ability. Sessions are an hour long with 30 minutes on track, all for £36.

Having won the Aylesbury Vale Best Leisure, Hospitality or Entertainment Business Award in 2015, Rogue Bowling has already proved a success. There’s always a fun, family atmosphere there and the friendly, helpful and welcoming staff have done a great job of taking care of the place too, as it still looks like new! It’s been designed to offer first-class bowling in comfortable surroundings and with a great range of freshly-prepared hot and cold food, snacks and drinks available, plus a fully licenced bar.

Bowling starts at around £5 (adults) £4 (U16s) per game, off peak, but check out the Rogue Leisure website or Facebook site as there’s lots of special offers which change from month to month.

“The bowling is popular with all ages,” says owner Aidan Kirwan. “In the day we have Parent and Toddler sessions (10am-2pm, £5 a game for an adult with child under 5) or groups like U3A come in.

“On Saturdays from 10am to 11.45am there’s a Youth Bowling Club with qualified

instructors for U18s wanting to learn the game and an After School offer from 3-5pm Monday to Friday of £5 for two games for under 18s.

“In the evenings there’s a 2-4-1 offer on Tuesday evenings, a ‘Pints & Pins’ offer on Wednesdays, 3 games for £12 on Thursday and we have fun retro music nights and ‘Glow In The Dark’ bowling on Fridays and Saturdays.

“The venue is available for private hire and also for charity events too, so if you have a fundraising idea, please get in touch.”

If you would like the chance to win a £50 voucher to use at Rogue Bowling or Karting, please email your name, address and contact number plus answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk How many bowling lanes are there at Rogue Bowling?

Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries received and notified by email by April 20th. l Rogue Racing, Unit 6 The Point, Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8DB Tel. 01296 330567 Email. enquiries@RogueRacing.co.uk Web: www.RogueRacing.co.uk l Rogue Bowling, Unit 6 The Point, Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8DB Tel. 01296 326888 Email. enquiries@RogueBowling.co.uk Web: www.RogueBowling.co.uk Opening Hours: Mon-Thur: 10am-11pm; Fri/Sat: 10am-midnight; Sun: 10am-10pm

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Column: Nick Phillips ‘Good to give’

Age doesn’t matter R

egular readers of my column will know how passionate I am about the local charities and community groups who deliver so much to the people of Bucks.

Regular readers will probably also have picked up from our work with these charities that leadership is key to any successful organisation.

Some charities have paid staff in leadership roles; a chief executive, a finance director, a fundraising director… but there will always be a board of trustees leading a charity – a voluntary role yet one that carries all the challenges of leadership.

Being a trustee is about leadership. The right trustees can lead an organisation with a clear strategy, energy and ambition to make sure the organisation is doing all it can to achieve its potential for the good of the beneficiary. It is a truly rewarding experience.

One person who knows just

Aylesbury Youth Action Trustee Board including Jade (white top). how rewarding is Jade, a trustee of local charity Aylesbury Youth Action who provide opportunities for young people to volunteer in the community. Jade is slightly unusual in the world of trustees as she became a trustee at just 17 years of age. She told me that before she committed herself to the role she went along to a couple of board meetings to, in her words, “get used to the idea of what being a trustee would truly mean, and partly to see

how other board members would react to having a teenager in their midst.” Obviously, both sides felt there was a good fit, as two years on Jade is still a trustee and is successfully juggling the role along with being away at university.

I love Jade’s story. It really encapsulates the flexibility, creativity and supportive nature of trustee roles. Aylesbury Youth Action knew they needed to be youth-led; one really effective way to do that

Nick Phillips

Good to give would be to recruit a young trustee.

So that’s what they did.

Trustees come from all walks of life, ages and experiences. You don’t have to have any specialist skills apart from being driven by the desire to lead an organisation and make a difference.

On 25th April we’re holding an event in Aylesbury to recruit more trustees to local charities. I’m sure Jade would join me in encouraging you to come along and find out what a rewarding role it is. It might be the best thing you ever do! l Nick Phillips is CEO of

Community Impact Bucks: Tel: 0300 1111 250 www.communityimpactbucks.org.uk

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 30

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

www.fnhospice.org.uk

01296 429975

Supporting total Hospice care for local families affected by life-limiting illness

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

unds for Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, Registered Charity Number: 1119499

Men join Midnight Walk!

It’s an annual event and the biggest, pinkest, most effective fundraiser of the year for our local Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity, but until now it’s been a girls only affair! This year men will be invited to take part too, for the first time, so come on guys, put your best foot forward...

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his year Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity’s (FNHC) main fundraising event, the Midnight Walk, will be a bit different.

“We asked the public whether they would like the event to be opened out to men as well as women,” explains Jo Turner, Head of Fundraising at the Charity. “We ran a survey in the autumn, and 80% of the respondents said they would like men to be allowed to take part.”

While the majority were in favour of men joining the Walk, some fear that it will change the unique atmosphere of the event. “It’s nice to celebrate with girlfriends in a relaxed atmosphere. I feel that may change and become more competitive,” said one lady.

However, many also pointed out that men wish to support the Hospice as well. “Men also lose loved ones to cancer or suffer from cancer just the same as ladies,” one lady wrote, while another said, “Why not, the more the merrier, it’s raising money for a brilliant cause.

Males look good in pink and flashing lights.”

In response, the FNHC Events team decided that the 2018 Midnight Walk, on the 23rd June, should be open to everyone over the age of 11.

The Charity also asked survey respondents if they would prefer to keep the distance options the same, or change them to a 5 mile and 10 mile route.

“54% of respondents said they would prefer a choice of 5 miles or 10 miles, and so we have decided to trial these distances,” says Jo Turner.

“This means that the routes will change. We are still at the planning stages, but we will make sure that both routes still pass the Waterside Theatre.”

The Midnight Walk is FNHC’s largest fundraising event and last year raised over £65,000 with 475 Walkers dressed in the event’s iconic dayglo pink T-shirts and flashing bunny ears.

“One thing that won’t be changing is the Midnight Walk “uniform”,” says Jo. “The flashing ears are spectacular, and the T-shirts in ‘Safety Pink’ help to keep Walkers visible as well as being traditional!”

Midnight Walk 2018 Saturday 23rd June at Aylesbury College, Oxford Road.

Registration from 10pm Walk starts at 12am Registration is £20 per person which includes souvenir Midnight Walk T-shirt, medal and light breakfast at the Finish.

The money raised by Midnight Walkers makes a huge contribution to enable Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity to continue to provide services to patients with life-limiting illnesses at the Hospice and at home, and this year the Charity hopes the changes to the event will increase the number of Walkers and the amount raised for the Hospice.

The new look Midnight Walk will take place on 23 June 2018, starting and finishing, as usual, at Aylesbury College. l Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity (FNHC) Unit 2 Walton Lodge, Walton Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP21 7QY Tel: 01296 429975 Web: www.fnhospice.org.uk Facebook: /florencenightingalehospice Twitter: @fnhospice Registered Charity 1119499

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

31

‘Good Health’ with Sandra Smith

Help after suicide Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

E

ach year in England and Wales 6,000 people, 75% of whom are men, take their own life.

Suicide is the biggest killer of young males under the age of 25.

Shocking as these statistics are, the fallout reaches many more with survivors left not just grieving their loss but dealing with guilt, stigma and a future for which they are unprepared.

Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide is a small, national charity now in its 25th year. An Aylesbury group meets once a month in the town centre under the leadership of Geoff Price.

“Our prime purpose is to help survivors. Whether the suicide is out of the blue or has been coming for a long time, there is often anger at the person as well as shame. But people who are suffering depression are clever at telling you what you think you

A suicide brings unique bereavement issues want to hear. And if someone is ill, you’re always hoping they will get better. What we say to those who come to meetings is, your life has changed; you can’t get back to where you were but hopefully you can find a new normal that you can live with.”

Being with others with similar experiences is, for many, a relief.

Where friends and relatives aren’t always able to find appropriate words or empathy, here a relaxed, welcoming environment puts

Could you listen to children read

D

o you have an hour or two a week to listen to children read in a local primary school?

Schoolreaders is a non-profit organisation that provides and matches volunteers from the community to listen to children read on a one-to-one basis in a local primary school. This service is free to schools and there is a great need for more volunteers locally.

The scheme is flexible to fit in with a volunteer’s availability and location, although Schoolreaders requests a minimum of a year’s commitment. No qualifications are necessary - just a good command of spoken and written English.

Volunteers get enormous pleasure and fulfilment in seeing the difference that their time makes in helping children with their reading and thereby increasing a child’s life opportunities.

Having launched in Bedfordshire in 2013 in just 12 primary schools, 32

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Schoolreaders currently delivers approximately 4,500 weekly reading sessions with a child each week in over 230 schools across the country.

Children leaving primary school with a compromised reading ability can face potential disadvantage at secondary school.

If you are interested in becoming a Schoolreader volunteer or are a school wishing to register, this can be done via the website: www.schoolreaders.org or for more information, please contact: 01234 924111 or email: admin@schoolreaders.org

everyone at their ease.

“We’re not counsellors,” Geoff explains. “We sit in a circle with a cup of something and all introduce ourselves. Everyone has a name badge. Individuals say who they have lost then a conversation starts. We shepherd the meeting, making sure everyone who wants to is included.”

Regular attendance at the free evening meetings is not obligatory.

Nor does it matter how long ago the suicide took place, or the relationship. The group also offers practical help and advice, for instance organising a funeral or dealing with the Coroner’s office.

In addition, SOBS is involved in suicide prevention because survivors are vulnerable.

“I thought I was going crazy; now I realise I’m not,” is the classic phrase we hear, Geoff states.

If you are over 18 and have lost

Good Health

Sandra Smith someone through suicide, contact Geoff for more information.

This group might bring you some resolution and help rebuild your own life.

Geoff Price can be contacted on: 07862 336649 or via email at: sobs.aylesbury@gmail.com.

The national helpline is open Monday to Friday 9am-9pm Tel: 0800 111 5065 Website: www.uk-sobs.org.uk l Sandra Smith is a freelance

writer, follow her on Twitter: @TheCurrentMrsS or visit her website: www.TheCurrentMrsSmith.co.uk

Win inspiring book by Tuscan woodworkers

W

oodworking is a stunning book containing beautiful photographs and descriptions of 20 projects, using simple techniques, that readers can make for their own homes and gardens.

The authors, woodworkers Andrea Brugi and Samina Langholz, have their own successful woodworking business in the pretty little Tuscan village of Montemerano, where they live with their daughter, make their items and sell them online.

The images of Tuscany and of the projects are inspiring and will make you want to rush to rural Italy and embrace the rustic lifestyle, unspoiled views of olive groves and a new life as a simple carpenter!

Andrea and Samina’s handmade products are all signed and sold worldwide through outlets such as Goop and Eataly, as well as via their own online shop at: www. andreabrugi.com Woodworking by Andrea Brugi and Samina Langholz is published

by Jacqui Small, an imprint of The

Quarto Group (£20). If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning a copy of this gorgeous hardback, simply email your name, address and telephone number along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk In which Tuscan village to Andrea and Samina live?

Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by April 20th, 2018. l www.quartoknows.com

l

Column: Nick Andrews ‘Education Matters’

Grief affects us all I

was moved to receive a communication from a reader of this column regarding her two daughters and the recent death of their grandfather.

Schools will have received training in child bereavement and I am happy to share some of it here which I hope may be helpful.

It is therapeutic to understand that grieving is a process, we will all go through certain stages but there is light at the end of the tunnel. Healing will occur, children will accept, they will rebuild their identities and will move on. Above all, it does not mean that the love they felt is in any way diminished.

It has now taken the form of loving, supportive memories and not an artificial state of denial and anger.

In the nature of teaching; anyone who has worked in a school for a number of years will have dealt with a number of grieving families and a relatively predictable pattern emerges. Accepting these stages can help everyone; you are not alone, others have been through this too.

Shock - No matter how predictable the death; it is always shocking. During this phase; do not marginalise and isolate the children under the pretext that you are protecting them. Help them with their tears and share them.

Denial - This soon follows.

Keeping everything as it was satisfies a deep seated feeling that if nothing is changed then the person will reappear.

Anger - the sense of rejection can be very strong and is entirely natural. The lesson is not to make decisions based on the anger; this phase will pass.

Bargaining - younger children particularly may start to suggest that if they become ‘better behaved’ then perhaps the person might return. Time for an understanding cuddle and shared tear - resist the bargaining.

Acceptance – this will come eventually. Be patient, it always

takes longer than we expect.

Realistic acceptance is the state we are looking for the family to achieve but this can be different for different age groups.

Under six years There is no reason why the child cannot be part of the grieving process, including the funeral and the rituals associated with it. The general advice is not to let the child see the body, this can lead to unresolved nightmares and fears.

Young children can still be talking about the lost relative for months to come as if they were still with us.

Six to twelve year olds Be honest about the cause of death and involve them in a simple and gently way in the entire process of arrangements. They may want to play their part.

If you notice that they are starting to blame themselves, as a way of gaining some control over the situation, only total honesty will help them understand that this is not so.

Nick Andrews

Education Matters The ‘teen years They will be aware of death outside the family and it can be a shattering blow when it comes ‘inside’. These years are complex enough and the warning signs of deepening grief can be: an increasing amount of time alone, lack of appetite, lack of sleep, constantly phoning to check that parents are OK and a sharp drop in school performance. These are signs that they may need professional help – the charity CRUSE will be a good place to start.

As has been said here before, your family is a team and you are the manager. The team needs to grieve together. l Nick Andrews is a retired Headteacher and runs a free education consultancy service in Aylesbury at the More+ cafe.

Email: nickubiq@gmail.com

Pardon my English!

A local dialect ‘Call My Bluff’ by Jacot de Boinod Can you guess the right definitions of the following words?

1) Cham

3) Wanty

2) Wamble

4) Bummock

(Oxfordshire dialect) A) to make dirty foot marks on a clean floor B) to chew C) tired and dirty, in need of a bath (Buckinghamshire dialect)

A) to invert a basin or saucepan on a shelf so that dust does not settle on the inside B) to walk unsteadily C) to dig up weeds with a hoe

(Buckinghamshire dialect) A) the belly-band in a cart harness B) tawny, yellow tinged with red C) being chubby and somewhat squat

(Buckinghamshire dialect) A) wool taken from a dead sheep B) rotten or decayed wood C) to beat, defeat

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, he is setting a fun ‘Call-My-Bluff Quiz for Vale Life readers - mind your language now...

ANSWERS: 1B) to chew 2B) to walk unsteadily 3A) the belly-band in a cart harness 4C) to beat, defeat Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

33

by Cathy Soughton

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

WarGen needs You!

D

o you remember World War II? If so WarGen needs you!

WarGen aims to record interviews with as many people as possible who lived through World War II – ordinary men, women and children who were caught up in something completely beyond their control.

This war was the most global and cataclysmic war the world has ever known, involving the vast majority of countries. It touched the lives of everyone living in these countries at the time and yet soon the memories of those people will be gone forever and World War II, like those conflicts before it, will fall out of living memory. Regardless of their role, those who lived through it are crucially important witnesses to the war and WarGen is a project to record the memories of as many of these survivors as possible whilst there’s still time.

WarGen was founded in 2016 by well-known broadcaster and

historian, Dan Snow, and author and broadcaster, James Holland. It is an open crowd-sourced history movement that encourages anyone who lived through World War II, either in the military or as a civilian, or who knows a friend or has a family member who did so, to capture their recollections and submit them to the project.

Volunteers are also being sought to record interviews and upload them to the website.

The interviews that have been recorded to date can be read or viewed on WarGen’s website at: www.wargen.org .

Whilst many of those submitted so far are from people who served in the Allied armed forces, contributions are welcome from people around the world. Recent interviews submitted include ones from individuals who were children at the time and there is a truly shocking one from an Italian lady

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

www.wargen.org Cornelia Paselli who was a survivor of the Marzabotto massacre where the Nazis murdered at least 770 Italian citizens in 1944 in reprisal for the local support given to the partisans and the Resistance.

There is the opportunity to leave comments on the interviews and subscribe to the site and interact with other users.

WarGen is run entirely by volunteers and they are also looking for crowdfunding to assist them in purchasing recording equipment, dictaphones, video cameras and the like and to provide funds to let them advertise the project. Donations can be made at www.crowdfunder.co.uk/

wargen In the Vale, local volunteer Jill Pearce has started interviewing people and recording their testimonies. Interviews can be audio visual or just audio and written transcriptions can also be taken.

Jill is based near Aylesbury and can travel to meet with people in Buckinghamshire and Hertfordshire, although there are other interviewers based in locations throughout the UK for those who live in other areas.

Do get in touch with Jill if you or someone you know remembers the war – all stories are welcome as they help build up a fuller picture of life during the war and every story is different. Jill can be contacted via jill@brutonpearce.co.uk or on 01296 624472. There are also guidelines on WarGen’s site for submitting your own material and for conducting interviews. l Cathy Soughton is a professional genealogist and architectural historian providing family history and house history research in the local area.

W: www.bucksresearch.co.uk, E: soughton@btopenworld.com, T: 01296 624845

Health & Fitness l

Column: Be More with Sara Hammond

Mindfulness at work

W

ith so many things competing for our attention in the workplace many of us are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. The ‘always on’ culture and the speed and uncertainty of life today affects our ability to stay focused. We end up being pulled from one thing to another. This not only affects how we perform at work it also has a huge knock-on effect on our personal lives. When people are stressed it also impacts the things that are important for organisational success such as collaboration, creative thinking, productivity and effective decision making. So no one wins.

The pace of life is unlikely to change, so how do we cultivate the ability to remain calm and focused?

Could mindfulness be the answer?

Large corporations such as Apple, Google, IKEA and Transport for London are introducing mindfulness

to help their employees cope with the demands of work today.

Mindfulness is the ability to train our minds to be more present and in the moment. It not only helps us to focus more and feel less stressed, it also allows us to be more aware of how we are feeling. This can help us to make better decisions about how we respond to situations and the people around us. We all know how easy it is to react in the wrong way to an email and then regret it later.

So, what are the benefits of introducing mindfulness to the

workplace? It helps people to achieve more, feel calmer, and recognise and manage their emotions. This can lead to an improvement in wellbeing and work-life balance. From the organisation’s perspective, there is potentially less stress-related absence, higher productivity, greater collaboration and innovation and happier, more engaged employees.

So a win-win for everyone.

However, mindfulness is not a cure-all and introducing it into an organisation needs to be carefully thought through. It needs to be tailored to fit the organisation and more importantly, it should never be used as a ‘sticking plaster’ to cover up toxic cultures, poor working practices and ineffective leadership.

As with any intervention the full benefits are only achieved if mindfulness becomes part of the culture and working practices.

Mindfulness at work can range from introductory sessions to

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Sara Hammond Mindfulness teacher full programmes and it can be integrated into existing training courses.

To find out more about how mindfulness might support you or your organisation please get in touch with me, Sara Hammond, at Be More: www.be-more.co.uk l Sara Hammond is a trained

mindfulness teacher, coach, supervisor, counsellor and facilitator working with individuals and organisations.

Tel: 01844 396464 Email: sara@be-more.co.uk Web: www.be-more.co.uk

serviced office space & business support 01844 211080 follow us twitter.com/sanderumcentre www.sanderumcentre.co.uk hello@sanderumcentre.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

35

l

Column: Down to business with Philippa Batting

Our women are workers

W

ith International Women’s Day not long since celebrated on March 8th, it seems like a good time to draw attention to the women in business in Buckinghamshire.

It’s great to find that Buckinghamshire has the highest percentage of women in employment in the whole country, with nearly 78 per cent of all women aged 16-64 in employment, according to the ONS’ Annual Population Survey 2018. Aylesbury Vale and Wycombe districts have especially high rates.

Buckinghamshire also has the highest percentage of female managers, directors and senior officials out of all women in employment. Here it’s Chiltern and South Bucks’ districts that perform best, both placed in the top 7 of all districts in the country.

While these figures are impressive and reflect well on

 ü  ü ü  ü 

Buckinghamshire, the people behind the stats are inspirational.

Drawing attention to successful business women and tapping into their experience is so important to show coming generations of women that they too can be successful in their careers.

Two such successful women Angela Spang, Founder of JUNE MEDICAL, and Jane Campbell, Managing Director of PCL Corporatewear – have been named as Buckinghamshire Growth Champions, which speaks volumes for their talents and ability to inspire others.

Jane was named Business Leader of the Year at the Buckinghamshire Business Awards 2017. In a sign of how inspirational and popular she is with her team, a colleague described their reaction to her win: “When she was announced as the winner we couldn’t have been more proud. Her unique leadership skills have formed a growing,

Bookkeeping VAT Returns Management Accounts Payroll via

Call 01844 396134 info@profynd.com Photography Video Website Design Commercial and Private Weddings Celebrations Corporate Events www.stormfresh.co.uk michelle@stormfresh.co.uk Tel: 07803 147486 36

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

successful business which is a great place to work - and this award is a testimony to that.” There’s no doubt that Jane is the kind of leader in work and in decisionwho can inspire her making positions in team - and others Buckinghamshire, - to dream big and and by the real-life win big.” inspirations like This relationship Angela and Jane, between business Buckinghamshire’s owner and employee business scene is full of is important to opportunity for those Angela too. As with the drive and someone who runs ambition to chase their Angela Spang 3 businesses from goals. one office in High Wycombe, she is Buckinghamshire Business First generous with advice on all aspects can help you and your business of running a business, including succeed. Find out more at www.bbf. recruitment. “Surround yourself uk.com with people who are nice, who have l Philippa Batting is MD of passion and dedication,” is the way Buckinghamshire Business First she puts it. Angela also gives very (BBF), working to support and generously of her time to inspire facilitate success within the University of Buckingham students business community. Membership is on entrepreneurship.

Judging by the number of women free - visit: www.bbf.uk.com

Philippa Batting Down to business

New group appeals to Vale businesses

A

new business networking group, The Aylesbury Group (TAG) for Aylesbury Vale has been growing dramatically. Founder Organisations Cartmell & Co Solicitors, Fieldstead Insolvency, Haines Watts Accountants, Metro Bank & St James’s Place Partnership (Nick Barnes Wealth Management) spread word through the local business community and within a few meetings more than 40 local businesses had signed up and more are joining every month.

Meetings for TAG are held on the 1st Tuesday of the month from 12noon to 2pm at The Watermead Inn at Lakeside, where a light lunch and refreshments are combined with networking opportunities, presentations and talks.

The group’s founding

organisations have been keen to focus on members holding senior positions within professional businesses in and around Aylesbury, and just one member from each profession/sector.

TAG’s Chairman, Paul Bolton from Cartmell Co Solicitors said “We are delighted that TAG has grown so quickly and it is great to see so much interaction between members’ businesses already.

“We wish for TAG to evolve quickly and we are enjoying taking contributions from members as to how we move the group forward together.”

A website for the group is currently under construction at: www.theaylesburygroup.co.uk but until it goes live please contact Paul Bolton, Head of Legal Services at Cartmell & Co Solicitors for further details: paul@cartmell-solicitors.co.uk

Local firm plugs skills gap

L

eading IT support company MCSA, has pledged to help tackle the IT skills shortage by creating new jobs. The High Wycombe-based business is looking to increase its workforce by 25% over the next four years and with offices nationwide, the announcement promises new jobs with improved education and training across the UK. MCSA envisages that over half of its new recruits will be young talent introduced through its apprenticeship and graduate training programmes.

Over seven years ago MCSA launched its own accredited apprenticeship scheme encouraging school leavers to develop their technology skills with tailored training programmes leading to specialist careers in IT. The schemes have been hugely successful in providing rewarding careers for youngsters in the growing IT sector and in developing the next generation of IT professionals to sustain the growth of both MCSA and the industry as

developing fast enough to meet the embark on rewarding IT careers of increasing demands of our digital their own and for us as employers economy, and over to establish young talent as productive my 40 years in the industry I have seen and skilled members of staff. It’s a model I’d the skills gap grow.

There is a significant like to see replicated shortage of skilled IT across the wider IT industry.” professionals within the industry to support MCSA specialises in enterprise UK businesses and we all need to play a part data centres, providing hardware in addressing training Roger Timms and recruitment. maintenance, business“My own journey critical managed began as an IT apprentice and services, transition and refresh I firmly believe apprenticeships projects. Via its network of regional offices, dedicated engineering are an ideal way for youngsters to teams support organisations across Dan Butler, MCSA Managed Services consultant the entire UK mainland on a 24/7 “I joined MCSA in September 2014 as an basis. apprentice, despite receiving an offer for a l For more information about an university place, as I felt an apprenticeship would apprenticeship with MCSA visit: give me the real-world IT experience I was after. www.mcsa.co.uk or contact the I have flourished due to the mix of theoretical and team on: 01628 810977 practical learning and my apprenticeship has also taught me the meaning of good customer service, something which is synonymous with MCSA. My current role has lots of variety, but the skills acquired during my apprenticeship are always at the core of what I do.”

a whole.

This year MCSA has a schedule of events planned to demonstrate its commitment to encouraging youngsters into IT careers, including attending open days at local colleges and hosting lunches for those starting out in their careers to learn from experienced IT professionals at MCSA. Roger Timms, MCSA’s Founder and Chairman, says: “As companies become ever more reliant on technology, the demand for IT services to keep businesses flourishing continues to increase.

There is a growing concern across the UK that STEM skills aren’t

Dan Butler joined MCSA as an apprentice

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

l

Column: Your life journey with Roo Davies

How many hats?

H

ow often do you wish you had more ‘me-time’ or fantasise about what you would do if there were more hours in the day? You’re not alone, it’s a common situation but don’t despair! Try looking a little deeper into how you spend your time. That can be a powerful first step in re-claiming some time back for you.

Step 1: Think about the different roles that you take on across all areas of your life, in a typical day, week and month. Write them down.

Between work, home, family, community and friends - they can soon add up. What’s more, you may wear more than one hat in some of these areas. For example, in the workplace you may wear a hat for ‘colleague’, ‘mentor’, ‘manager’, ‘health & safety officer’ - you get the idea. Not many of us turn up for work and just fulfil one role.

Step 2: Once you have the list

of hats that you wear, think about which hats you wear the most AND if you enjoy wearing them.

Add this insight to your list. You can write the time as a percentage, the number of hours per day or draw a pie chart. It really doesn’t matter how you record it but that you think about the time each role consumes. Then add a tick or a cross or a smiley, neutral or sad face to indicate if you generally enjoy wearing that hat.

Step 3: Is there a hat that just says YOUR NAME? Now this is the million-dollar question. In other words, do you spend time working on yourself?

Investing time and energy into YOU. Thinking about the life you want to live and how you can get there. If not, why not?

Life coaching gives you the space and opportunity to ask yourself questions such as this. With this comes greater clarity about the

Roo Davies Life Coach I became a life coach after a series of events left me feeling like the rug had been pulled from under me. Over time I regained control and shaped my next chapter.

I understand how change can impact a person’s life. I don’t have a magic wand but we can explore your situation and work together to move forward. direction you want to take in life and how to get there.

I am a member of the Association for Coaching and I am based at The White House, Thame, offering face to face coaching sessions in a compassionate, safe and confidential space.

l Roo Davies, Your Life Journey, The White House, 2 East Street, Thame, OX9 3JS Tel: 07753 756512 Email: roo@yourlifejourney.co.uk Web: www.yourlifejourney.co.uk Facebook.com/yourlifejourney.co.uk

PACKAGELS L TO SUIT A

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Funeral Wakes, Christenings, Birthday Parties, Baby Showers, Proms, Reunions, Family Celebrations…

In fact, any event that requires a venue.

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Phone 01296 734030 Email: events@hinnaylesbury.com

Forget MEEs not!

T

he new ‘MEES’ or Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards come in to force on 1st April 2018. This is an important topic which will have huge implications for landlords of both commercial and residential property.

For those not already aware, the rules will prohibit any new leases being granted or the renewal of leases with existing tenants where the property has an EPC rating of less than ‘E’, so any ‘F’ or ‘G’ rated properties will be affected. The rules will not affect existing tenancies until 2023 for commercial. There are some exemptions and landlords are urged to act

now to ensure that, where eligible, they are properly registered with the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy.

The implications are already being felt with almost a fifth of all commercial property in England and Wales understood to be ‘substandard’ once the new rules come in.

In some cases, however, improvements needed may be as simple as switching to LED lighting. In most cases a ‘recommendations report’ will accompany the EPC certificate and this will give an indication of some of the improvements that could be made. Plenty of companies

that specialise in EPC’s, such as www.vitaldirect.co.uk can also produce tailored reports outlining the improvements needed to get your building compliant.

Whilst many landlords will bemoan the new rules and the potential costs of improvements, they should also consider the benefits, particularly the longer-term cost savings associated with having a more energy efficient building. This should also help retain and attract tenants.

The message is clear – act now to ensure you do not get caught out. The clock is ticking!

PRESS RELEASE

CHANDLER GARVEy MARKET NEW COMMERCIAL Buy TO LET OPPORTuNITy IN AyLESBuRy

to let

Century Court, Westcott

to let

Future Centre, Aylesbury

Alan Chandler, Director of Chandler Garvey has been instructed by Kingston Space Ltd to from 3,000 to 12,000 sq ft 34,692 sq ft market the Space Business Centre, a development of 27 units located in one back to back terrace and 16 units in the other. The units are of modern construction, having been built in 2009. The sizes range from 367 sq. ft. up to 908 sq. ft. and are fitted with a mezzanine floor.

The total accommodation on the estate is 19,541 sq. ft. The site benefits from tax and stamp duty savings, cheaper than renting, commercial investment yields will be higher than yields on residential buy to lets, all units are business rates exempt (small business rate relief), and thereofisnew a dedicated unit andproperties visitor parking.

Second Phase industrial/warehouse ready in June 2018. 3 units of 3,000 sq ft each plus a further unit of freehold byframe Aylesbury Vale DistrictDetached Councilindustrial/warehouse and Kingston Space Ltd thesqlong building of are 34,692 ft (3,223 12,000 sqThe ft which could is be owned split. Portal construction, sq m).

Steel portal frame constructed late 1980s.

Good office concreteleaseholders, floor (40Kn/M2 with load capacity), insulated steel wall over 130 years remaining. units are available from £64,000 plus VAT. content (11,400 sq ft), self contained yard with 103 car spaces. cladding, insulated roof with roof lights. Eaves height 6m-7.2m.

All units let on monthly licences and are now To producing income in excess Anglo Office Park, Amersham Oxford House, Aylesbury to let / are Let a gross annual of £300,000.from Further details from Alan Chandler – ac@chandlergarvey.com / 01296 398383.

3,310 to 13,240 sq ft from 3,749 to 56,312 sq ft For Sale Modern development on the south side of White Lion Road, (the A404). Unit 4 is available now and units 1, 5, 6 & 7 are available in May 2018.

Two storey offices with air conditioning, full access raised floors and parking.

To Let

Storage Land College Road North, Aylesbury

1.4 acre site fronting A41 Aston Clinton Road with industrial/ warehouse building 4,765 sq ft.

There is planning permission for another 1,525 sq ft steel framed workshop on the site.

High quality office suites to let, with excellent car parking, and exceptional on-site facilities. Oxford House is a four storey headquarters office building located in its own grounds near Aylesbury town in recent years.

Office suites are available centre. The building has been from 3,749 to 56,312 sq ft. comprehensively refurbished

to let

Blue Leanie, Aylesbury from 3,347 to 19,621 sq ft

Iconic headquarters building to let in part (from 3,347 to 19,621 sq ft).

Car parking 1:308 sq ft, VAV air conditioning, full access raised floors, 2 passenger lifts and excellent natural light.

Call our Aylesbury Team - Alan Chandler and Terri Clarke on: 01296 398383 Lettings | Acquisitions | Investments | Valuations | Property Management Rent Reviews and Lease Renewals | Development / Planning Advice | Business Rates

A new perspective on property

www.chandlergarvey.com

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

39

Killer Kitchens Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

How To Master The Art of Kitchen Design

No 1: Fitzroy Kitchen in Hartforth Blue & Chalk by Victoria Hudson

Chatting whilst preparing food is practically a national pastime, making today’s kitchens a hybrid that blends cooking, eating and living...

A

s the most seen, most used and usually most busy room, getting the design right is crucial to a successful multi-functional, practical and stylish space. It may need to be a family hub that’s flexible and allows you to watch the kids whilst cooking, a grown up space with ambient lighting, an AV system and integrated ice trough to keep your Gavi di Gavi perfectly chilled, or a semi-professional mission control for the budding masterchef.

Each will require very different design approaches from the layout to lighting and product requirements.

Mastering The Art: 1. Function - have a clear idea of how the space will be used and gather together looks you like as a blueprint.

2. Expertise - a kitchen specialist will help you navigate the minefield of gadgets, styles and materials available, as well as getting the very best from the available space - in

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

particular, the right balance of storage and work surface is really important.

3. Mix - the harmonious use of different materials will create a textural medley that can also be used to define zones.

Here’s five projects that got the best creative outcomes using designer expertise: Victoria Hudson of C&C Kitchens has specialised in kitchen design for over a decade making her perfectly placed to share a few of her latest projects.

Kitchen 1: The design brief for this project above, was to create a practical open plan kitchen with lots of storage and worktop space. Being for an avid cook and teacher who holds cookery demonstrations for a variety of audiences in her own home, the kitchen had to be easy to maintain yet big enough to host family, friends and students, and be ready for a cooking demonstration at short notice!

The layout had to enable her to cook at

Polly Gibbs

Step inside Polly Gibbs, Creative Director at Coco Design, shares her down to earth approach to interiors, from design secrets to trends and everything in between. the hob without her back to students or family, however she didn’t initially like the idea of cooking on the island with an extractor hanging down from the ceiling and blocking the view. Victoria resolved this by locating an

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

induction hob with a domino gas burner away from the seated area and used an inset ceiling extractor.

“The addition of a Griddle Plate and Teppanyaki Grill meant the client could further develop her menu for three-course meals, along with a healthy Combi Steamer to enhance the appearance of food, which is ideal for a dazzling dinner party”.

Kitchen 2: Addressing the size and darkness of the space, which the client wanted in modern light, neutral tones, Victoria felt a single colour would look flat in such a spacious kitchen, opting for a mix of neutrals for subtle definition.

Nolte Papyrus Grey soft Lak base and tall wall units are blended with soft Lak white wall units, interspersed with contrasting open wall units.

Miele appliances and white quartz worktops ensure this kitchen is visibly breathtaking.

Open shelving is very popular at the moment, allowing clients to personalise the space, while lots of

No 2: Nolte Kitchen in Papyrus Grey & White by Victoria Hudson lighting in and below the wall units and on the island make for ambient evening entertaining.

Kitchen 3: A connection with the outdoor landscaping was

the main brief for this kitchen and, as successful restaurateurs, functionality was also a priority.

Appliances from Siemens, Dekton (man-made) work surfaces and Nolte cabinets combine effortlessly

for a chic space.

Kitchen 4: The brief for this spacious and striking extension with lots of glass and vaulted ceilings, Continued on page 42

Stylish kitchens for modern lifestyles

Book your free design appointment today The Italian sense of beauty is here…

Stoneworld Kitchens 43A Upper High St Thame OX9 2DW 01844 261768 www.stoneworldkitchens.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

41

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Step inside by Polly Gibbs

Dulux Comforting Palette

No 3: Nolte Kitchen by Victoria Hudson

No 4:1909 design by Victoria Hudson Continued from page 41 was a classic style with a modern edge, including a big island for social gatherings and good storage.

Victoria used a 1909 style kitchen (from Second Nature), in Partridge Grey and Charcoal with butt hinges and solid timber drawer boxes for longevity.

Key features include a Quooker hot tap on the island with prep sink, pull outs either side of the fridge freezer, storage either side of the range in dresser units for oils etc, 42

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

and the inside of the range is clad in Carrara marble.

Achieving a single slab of Carrara marble to top the island proved problematic; at 3 x 1.5 metres the main issue was transporting it to site in one piece, however, the client rejected the first piece due to natural markings. It’s worth noting here that natural stone will have characteristics, some more irregular than others. Generally speaking, stone cannot be rejected due to Continued on page 45

No 5: Roundhouse / Mad Cow Interiors Collaboration

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

43

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Step inside by Polly Gibbs Continued from page 42 naturally occurring patination. If in doubt, stick with one of the many beautiful man-made stones that eliminate this.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

The concrete worktop and reclaimed timber bar top were sourced separately. The idea here was to make it an island that people could gravitate around and eat off. I tend to use it a lot for buffet entertaining as well as a casual breakfast bar and workspace”.

For more inspiration see the Curious Coco dedicated ‘Killer Kitchen’ Pinterest board and follow me on social.

Here, Sue Miller from Mad Cow Interiors shares how she collaborated with Roundhouse to blend her unique creative flair with high-end design, for a kitchen less than ordinary.

Sue has a real knack for putting Source List •Expert Advice together an eclectic blend of colours, patterns, textures and finishes that candckitchens.co.uk •Professional Fitting shouldn’t work, but somehow just do. madcowinteriors.com (See No.5 page 42 and No.6 image (insta: @madcowinteriors) •Very Competitive roundhousedesign.com right) for Residential and “I went with a handleless kitchen sncollection.co.uk/kitchens/ Commercial work because I wanted to let the brickwork, fitzroy-painted •Carpets to suit all open shelving and artwork do all the pinterest.co.uk/curious_coco talking, not the cabinets.

Budgets “It was always going to be the hub l Polly is an•Free award-winning designer, Quotes of the ground floor, so I positioned Decorex100 interiors influencer & it so that you could see into the living Amara Interiors •NoBlog Obligation Award Finalist. room and dining room from both If you’ve got •Free a rockin’Parking interior or angles, making it a more family and design dilemma, message her and entertainment friendly space - I get to it could feature in the next issue: view the kids watching TV and shout CARPETS • VINYLS polly@curious-coco.com • SISAL • STAIR RODS Website: curious-coco.com at them when they’re not doing their SAFETY FLOORING • WOOD • BINDING TAPES Insta, Twitter, FB: @TheCuriousCoco homework while I’m cooking!”

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comforts Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Free parking

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Column: Safe as houses with Nigel Grace

Making plans B

uilding plots are usually sold with either outline planning or detailed planning permission. It is important that you understand the differences between the two.

Outline planning is where permission has been granted, the outline size and shape of the building is known but the finer details have not yet been designed and approved. If you buy a plot with outline planning, you need to allow for designer’s fees and time to progress the design so that you can apply to the local authority planning department for detailed approval. If your site has outline planning, then you will not be able to start building immediately and it will probably be 12-16 weeks before you can.

With Detailed Planning, design has progressed further, and design aspects have been agreed. So, there is less design work to do and cost to incur and works can start a lot sooner.

If you have bought a plot with detailed planning there is nothing

stopping you changing aspects of the design, but any changes will need to be submitted to the planning department for their approval - this can take time, but it is better to take time now getting the design right rather than regretting it later - it is a lot cheaper to change a drawing than change work on site.

Your house should be designed to reflect how you want to live in it - but you should consider that in the future you may want to sell your house (and build another one) so be careful those wacky design features that you find attractive don’t put off potential buyers and wipe value from your home.

Speak to your designer and see if the design that your plot comes with can be improved - you are not fixed to it. For example, would it be possible to increase the footprint of the house which may give you an extra bedroom and downstairs reception room, would it be possible to go from two storeys to three and build living space in the loft area.

It is also important to think about the future. Try and build flexibility into your home - imagine how your life may change whilst you are living there.

Think about expansion. Most developer-built houses use what are known as fink trusses. These are cheap, lightweight and simple - but they do restrict how you can use your loft. I don’t want to get too technical, but you could consider using what are known as attic trusses which although more expensive, give you the benefit of clear open spaces in your loft.

So, when the time comes to add an extra floor by converting your roof space it is a lot simpler and cheaper.

Consider the frustrations you have with your current home. A lot of simple things are very simple to implement. For example, electrical sockets – you can never have too many and it is amazing how many electrical devices we have, so plan for the future. If you think your room needs 6 double sockets allow for 10 - you won’t regret it!

We hate to admit it, but we are getting older so consider things like making the downstairs toilet slightly larger, so it can be a shower room / toilet or can one

Nigel Grace

Safe as houses

of the downstairs rooms be easily converted into a bedroom.

There is a lot to think about, but you can start making this a personal project and start imagining how you will live in your new home.

And, on a cautionary note always think about your budget and how much things will cost and consider employing a quantity surveyor (like me!) to work alongside your designer - this will allow you to receive advice as to how much your build should cost and enable you to align your budget with your design which is always advisable! l Nigel Grace MRICS is an experienced chartered quantity surveyor who has built and redeveloped many houses himself.

If you are thinking about starting a building project or need help or advice on your project contact him on: nigel@nigelgracelimited.co.uk

High quality bespoke kitchens and furniture, handmade by skilled craftsmen in Buckinghamshire Complete Kitchens | Bedrooms | Wardrobes | Cupboards | Shelving | Storage Solutions | Furniture | Desks | Offices

‘Mark’s attention to details, such as the plate rack and bespoke drawer dividers, make everything a pleasure to look at and use.’

Unit 23, Kemps Farm, Chapel Road, Ford, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8XG Tel: 01296 706030 Email: mark@markwilliamsonfurniture.com Website: www.markwilliamsonfurniture.com Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

47

Do you live, work or have close family living in the Aylesbury Vale District?

Do you live, work or have close family living in the Aylesbury Vale District?

You could be eligible to move in to a brand new home, in the District, this Summer.

You could be eligible to move in to a brand new home, in the District, this Summer.

Over the next two years, Hightown Homes are building affordable one, two Over the next two years, Hightown Homes are building affordable one, two and three bedroom homes in the District, including Tingewick Road, Buckingham, and three bedroom homes in the District, including Tingewick Road, Buckingham, available for Shared Ownership sale. available for Shared Ownership sale.

Tingewick Road offers 2 & 3 bedroom, semi-detached houses with contemporary Tingewick Road offers 2 & 3 bedroom, semi-detached houses with contemporary kitchens, private gardens and parking. kitchens, private gardens and parking.

To discuss your eligibility please contact To discuss your eligibility please contact sales@hightownha.org.uk sales@hightownha.org.uk 48

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

www.hightownhomes.com www.hightownhomes.com

bespoke doors & windows in timber, aluminium & composite

We manufacture, supply and install:

folding sliding doors sliding doors french doors single doors

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01844 279274 www.stoneworld.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

49

Pink&Green for Spring 2018 Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Real Living

by Charlotte Bolton

Real Living

Why not go a little colour crazy this Easter...

Charlotte Bolton

Pink and Green is fast becoming a classic colour combo and these vibrant shades will certainly give any room a lift!

F

orget monochrome bland, black, white and fifty shades of grey, the hottest new colour pairing is pink and green, and here at Vale Life, we love its tropical, jungle vibe! Summer here we come…

While it might feel like a brave choice for your home, these two shades complement each other perfectly, so go for lush green cactus and leaf motifs, mixed with pops of flamingo pinks to achieve this bright and botanical look.

Think pink and green!

Image 1 (below): Julien MacDonald Honolulu Glitter Metallic Palm Print Green Wallpaper, (£23 per roll). www.iwantoneofthose.com Image 2 (right): Biscayne Retro Vintage Style Lamp, (£54). www.notonthehighstreet.com Image 3 (right): Tropical palm mug, (£5.95). www.dotcomgiftshop.com

Biscayne retro vintage style lamp Tropical palm mug Image 5 (right): Orla Kiely hanging ceramic pot, (£30). Wild & Wolf

Image 6 (opposite Image 4 (bottom right): Cotton pink flamingo page): Sea Green Wool cushion with tassels, (£17.99) Throw

by MARQUIS www.maisondumonde.com & DAWE, (£59). www. notonthehighstreet.com

Julien MacDonald Honolulu Glitter Metallic Palm Print Green Wallpaper

Orla Kiely hanging ceramic pot

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Cotton pink flamingo tassel cushion

Real Living Sea Green Wool Throw by Marquis & Dawe

by Charlotte Bolton

Cactus wall art

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Flamingo porcelain snack holder

Colour chart

Handstit

Image 10 (top right): Flamingo porcelain snack holder, £(20). www.redcandy.co.uk

ched not

Pineapple Mason Jars

ebook

Image 7 (left) Pineapple Mason Jar, (£4 for two). George Home Image 8 (above right): Cactus Wall Art, (from £18). www.iamfy.co Image 9 (above): Cactus handstitched notebook, (£8).

Paperchase

Image 11 (right) Pink paint chart Image 12 (right) Green paint chart

Colour chart

l To find out how your home could be featured in a UK homes magazine visit Charlotte’s website: www.reallivingspaces.co.uk.

Share your home interior ideas in a magazine! It’s fun, and free!

Looking to warm your home and bring your family together?

Call to discuss your ideas and then visit our showroom:

North Mill, North Mill Road, Bledlow, Bucks HP27 9QP (By appointment)

( 01844 342400

www.northmillstoves.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018 51

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Hartwell Nurseries have been quietly developing their garden centre at Stone over the past few years. It now boasts a smart new café and a recent partnership with AVS Fencing, has introduced an impressive range of landscaping, fencing and decking products for trade and domestic customers...

A

VS Fencing Supplies is the leading supplier of fencing, landscaping and decking materials in the South East. The company has been supplying corporate, trade and retail customers for more than 20 years and takes a pride in treating each customer as an individual. They have now opened a new branch at Hartwell Nurseries, having taken over the Hartwell Landscaping Supplies business that was on the site previously.

“When buying fencing and landscaping materials, the customer has a huge choice,” says Adrian Harwood of AVS. “Perhaps too much! At AVS we strive for clarity and openness in our products and services. At the end of the day the customer wants material that stands the test of time, while being excellent value for money. Our new branch at Hartwell is our 9th and we are looking forward, not only to introducing our extensive range to new customers in the Aylesbury area but also to becoming involved with the community there via our Local Community Fund.”

AVS has an extensive product range, from timber and security fencing to garden paving slabs, sands and aggregates, railway sleepers, sawn timber, summerhouses, log cabins,

52

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

The con

Jason Tyler in the yard at AVS Fencing, Hartwell shelters and arches, artificial grass; decking boards, kits and accessories; gates, posts and ironmongery - no matter what sector you are in, AVS have a fencing or landscaping solution and are happy to supply both large and small orders.

“We are specialists,” says Adrian. “The range and quality of our fencing and landscaping products will be superior to the products you’ll find in DIY stores as will the knowledge of our staff. You can get an idea from our website, or pop in for a browse or to

see specific items.”

“I’ve been here for 8 years,” says Jason Tyler, one of AVS Fencing’s Aylesbury managers. “I used to run the Hartwell Landscaping business but I’m really enjoying working with AVS now. At AVS we hold a huge amount of stock, so we can supply our customers instantly in many cases and if I haven’t got what you want here, I can usually get it from one of our other 8 branches.

AVS has a good website where you can get a feel for what is available and customers are

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018 Local Community Fund

AVS Fencing announce £10,000 Local Community Fund AVS Fencing is new to our area and is keen to be more than just a supplier of fencing, landscaping and outdoor living products. The company likes to lend its support to local communities and is putting its money where its mouth is by setting up a community fund to help out local community groups and events.

We all enjoy a sense of community when we join a group with similar interests or get together to organise and participate in local events, but organising a group or event, be it rambling, conservation, a school play, pub darts team, point to point meeting, swimming gala, summer fayre or similar, is not easy and inevitably has a ‘costs’ hurdle to overcome.

A common cry heard from those trying to arrange a local event is: ‘Where can we find some money, quickly?’ A lack of funds can put the dampers on the best of ideas.

AVS Fencing has helped many small events and charities with sponsorship money.

Last year they helped two cricket teams, two Summer shows, the ‘Men in Sheds’ charity welcome to come in and browse our display gardens and products and get advice from our experienced team.

“A selection of local landscapers have set up show gardens for us, using our AVS materials, which allows you to see what can be achieved and how the different materials work together.

They’ve done a great job, I think you’ll agree!

We also have a variety of paving options on display, including a fabulous selection of

Porcelain and Sandstone slabs. AVS has been established a long time and has developed an excellent product range teaming quality and service, with very competitive prices.”

“Come on down and have a look around,” says Adrian. “There’s the new café to try out, some lovely garden displays to see and we will be putting on some special activities for Easter – including a children’s ‘flower planter’ colouring competition to win a custom built

Building benches and a throne for the story circle

(they built a reading circle and throne), a Pony Club and several schools, among others. This year they have a pot of £10,000 in their Local Community Fund and are ready to hear from deserving local causes.

If you are involved in a local group, event or activity that needs a small cash injection (£100-£200), don’t delay - see if AVS Fencing can help. Start the ball rolling by emailing: localcommunityfund@avsfencing.co.uk saying who you are, what you are doing and what you want to achieve. It is simple and they really want to help. planter with seeds and plugs, and a charity ‘Win an Easter Egg’ with a ‘Hole in One’ putting course!” l AVS Fencing Supplies Ltd, Hartwell Nurseries, Ford Road, Stone, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP17 8RZ Tel: 01296 747961 Web: www.avsfencing.co.uk/aylesbury Open: 7.30am-5.30pm Mon to Fri; 8am-5pm Sat and 10am-4pm Sun. Closed Easter Sunday.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Looking forward to Spring The late snow as the Beast from the East came in should not affect gardeners too much and hopefully we can look forward to the growing season ahead, says Naomi MacKay...

March Offers

Uncovered

U

sually at this time of year, I feel like I start to perk up along with all Special on new & used machinery, tyres and showroom items as well as the latest Farol events the plantsoffers in the garden.

The days get longer and the chance of sun (despite it still being chilly) Boxwood covered to protect from is a cheery prospect after what snow is fine, whereas uncovered seems a very long and very soggy one has been split apart Covered winter. and prone to being whipped into However, there have been some But as I write this, the Beast decidedly low temperatures (-7 snowdrifts that are blocking roads. from the East has launched an So will all that late snow affect attack – and while we have seen insulator, and unlike frosty weather, according to my car as we drove to school on the Beds/Bucks border) the garden? Well the good news far worse in the way of snowfall can help to protect plants, not burn is that snow actually acts as an – so it may be that some plants in this area, the snow has been dry and kill them.

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Pruning back frost damage on a fig tree

The daffodils will soon be blooming have borne the brunt of the latest weather.

Plants that have been damaged by frost can recover if you look after them. Here’s a few tricks to

try…

Make sure they are not blasted by morning sun, as it can damage any new growth - for plants that can’t be moved, you can cover

them up with black plastic - just remember to take it off again!

Cut off any growth that has been damaged, pruning back to a healthy bud or shoot.

Damaged plants can benefit from a feed of a fertiliser to encourage growth.

Small tender plants may fare Continued on page 56

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55 53

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Continued from page 55 best from being dug up and taken to the greenhouse where they can be nurtured.

Anyway, hopefully by the time you read this spring will well and truly have arrived and the daffodils will be blooming and we may even be looking ahead a few weeks for the bluebells to appear – and what a welcome sight they will be after this grim winter.

It’s the ideal time to look ahead to the rest of the season, too and choose some new plants to grace the garden when the sun really comes out. This may seem a tad premature, but plant specialist Ball Colegrave has just announced some new plant varieties that will bring colour to the autumn garden and take you through to Spring of next year.

Highlights include new novelties for the booming patio plant market such as the fabulous Trailing Pansy F1 Cool Wav Strawberry Swirl, the giant blooms of novelty Primrose F1 Sweet 16 , the refined extralarge flowered Double Primula

Trailing Pansy Cool Way Strawberry Swirl Prima Belarina, and the rich coloured Polyanthus F1 Stella Scarlet Pimpernel.

All of these new plant introductions have been identified thorough rigorous trialling in collaboration with leading plant breeders. They are tested and

Primrose Sweet 16

evaluated in the growers’ Trial Grounds in West Adderbury, Banbury.

The Ball Colegrave Summer Showcase is definitely worth a visit, as you can see some of the new varieties that are set to come to

market, be inspired by the latest colour schemes and just enjoy a day out among thousands and thousands of beautiful blooms.

Gardeners have a chance to visit on Wednesday 18th July, from 4-8pm. Proceeds of this evening go to two charities; The Katherine

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Call 01296 706403 or pop into shop to book your grooming appointment 56

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

07980 828798 / 07795 383086

l Column ‘In the Garden’ with House Hospice and The David Colegrave Foundation. So pop ththe date in your diary now. More details at: www.ballcolegrave.com/ Gardeners Days out If you’re looking for some other ideas for days out – and after a few days of being snowed in plenty of us will probably have cabin fever!

– there is a new garden show at Ascot from April 13th-15th. Ascot

Racecourse has teamed up with The Savill Garden and The Valley Gardens at Windsor Great Park, to launch a brand-new garden show.

Ascot Racecourse and The Savill and Valley Gardens all form a part of the historic Windsor Estate, The all-new Ascot Spring Garden Show has been planned and designed by Stephen Bennett, former Shows Director at the Royal Horticultural Society where he was responsible for the RHS Chelsea Flower Show and the launch of all other major RHS shows during his tenure.

National Gardening week takes place from April 30th to May 6th.

Expect events, guided tours and other garden-related fun at gardens up and down the country. See www. nationalgardeningweek.org.uk for a full list of events. l Naomi Mackay is a freelance

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journalist who helps small businesses with anything to do with words – writing or proofing brochures and websites, running social media campaigns or producing blogs. Contact her at: naomimackay@gmail.com

Southern Trees & Landscapes

Naomi MacKay

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

George Davies

As the weather brightens our thoughts turn to gardening and landscaping projects. Most schemes require good quality grass or decking and happily George Davies Turf Ltd, one of the UK’s largest independent turf suppliers has just opened a new local depot...

B

ack in 2001, farmer George Davies was looking to diversify from growing the arable crops his family business had traditionally produced, on their 360 acre Buckinghamshire farm, near Olney.

George studied Agriculture at Newcastle University and then worked for an agricultural consultancy but after a couple of years was keen to get back to the farm and a more hands-on role.

He could see there was a demand for turf locally and that it was not always easy to get good quality turf delivered where and when you wanted it and in the quantities required.

“The best turf is grown on free draining sandy soil,” says George, “which we don’t have locally. So we source ours from further afield, mainly Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Suffolk, Kent and Cambridgeshire.”

“Supplying turf is a tricky business as it starts to de-generate as soon as it has been harvested, so transplanting it from the field to your garden whilst keeping it in perfect condition, is key.

“During the winter months this is less challenging as the turf will easily last three or

One of George’s Scania lorries with portable Manitou fork lift

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

four days. However, during late spring and summer the shelf life can be as little as 36 hours! During this period we endeavour to have the turf cut first thing in the morning and delivered to our yard around midday.

This enables us to deliver your turf in the afternoon, meaning it is less than 8 hours old and arrives in prime condition. The weather is always too hot or too cold, too wet or too dry, so turf needs to be carefully looked after and supplied fresh, otherwise the customer won’t get the best results.”

From humble beginnings as a one man business with a small flat back lorry for making deliveries George has gradually grown his operation and now has a small fleet of lorries and forklift trucks, some 16 members of staff and a huge chiller for cooling turf in the summer months to keep it at its best.

“I used to unload the turf by hand,” says George, “but now our Scania lorries actually carry their own Manitou fork lifts with them, so loading and then unloading at the customer’s specified location is quick and efficient and saves a lot of hard manual work.

“For me everything is about service.

Whether you are a domestic customer, a landscaper or a green keeper, you need fresh, strong, top quality turf all year round, backed up with a friendly, efficient delivery service we place the pallets of turf exactly where you want them, whether that’s across a fairway, next to a tee or green, through a building site and next to a plot number, or on your driveway.

“I’ve invested in more larger lorries, which means I can offer a quicker, more efficient service for my customers and be able to deliver what they want, when they want it, with same day delivery available in many cases. We can get up to 1,000 rolls of turf on a single lorry now and are supplying more than a million rolls a year.

“It’s my name over the door and on our fleet of vehicles, so I personally oversee the quality of our service and make sure the quality of our turf and other products is exceptional.

We have five different growers producing the same grass mix for us, in various parts of the country, where the soil is ideal, so I can provide my customers with a continuous supply of quality turf all year round.

“We supply to landscapers, local authorities

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

and developers as well as private homes and cater for all sizes of order, from small garden lawns to sports fields, bowling greens and golf courses, parks, new builds, educational and commercial premises.

“Trident is our most popular all-round turf.

It can have a variety of uses and is suitable for golf tees, general lawns and amenity landscaping. The turf has a medium texture and is very easy to maintain - it will take root and begin to flourish very soon after it has been laid. As a tough and hard-wearing turf, Trident has become popular due to its versatility and resilience. And it’s able to grow in a cold, wet and wintery climate, so it will keep its vibrant colour all year round.

“Our Wildflower Turf offers customers, the opportunity to turn lawns into miniature meadows and create an ideal habitat for bees, butterflies, birds and small mammals. It looks beautiful too, incorporating a mix of 34 carefully selected flowers and grasses, grown and developed on a specialist matting system.

“We also supply Rhizomatous Tall Fescue (RTF) - a new turf designed to grow in the harshest of conditions. It offers tolerance to drought and waterlogging through its

deep rooting capability, which will extend over a metre into the sub soil if the ground conditions allow (i.e no hard core or concrete).

It provides excellent wear, so is suitable for walkways or goal mouths on a football pitch.

It is stronger, deeper rooting, more durable and has a coarser complexion but is also more expensive!

“If your garden is lacking light then Shade Tolerant Turf may provide the solution. This medium texture, low-maintenance turf is grown using grass cultivars which flourish in a shaded environment. It is grown for a minimum of 18 months before harvesting and is suitable for use in municipal gardens, shaded landscapes and lawns, all recreational areas and on golf tees and racecourses.

“Our Greens Turf is suitable only for golf and bowling greens and luxury lawns, as it requires regular skilled maintenance. It is a fine-textured turf grown on natural sands with a dense, close-mown sward that makes a perfect putting surface.

“Although we supply large golf courses and estates, we know that gardens are getting smaller and we’ll happily supply a few rolls or even one roll at a time for patching and

mending, or covering a flower bed. Small quantities of turf will have to be collected though, not delivered, from our Kingswood, Olney or St. Albans depot.

“Whichever turf you choose we would advise preparing your ground as the grass roots will want to grow down into the soil beneath. The grass will also need enough water and light and reasonable drainage to flourish.

Some locations may not suit grass and so we have sourced a high quality artificial turf product for customers who need an alternative solution.”

George Davies Turf Ltd also supply a range of garden related products including: Millboard Composite Decking - a practical, long-lasting alternative to real wood, which looks as good as solid wood but lasts longer as it shouldn’t fade, rot or warp. It’s made from sustainable composite topped with Lastane, a strong and slip-free layer, which resists algae and requires virtually no maintenance. A variety of wood effect finishes are available, each beautifully natural in appearance.

Topsoil - from a family firm in Lincolnshire dedicated to producing the highest quality Top Soil, Top Dressing, Raised Bed Mix, Soil Improver, Ericaceous Soil, Tee Dressing and more...

Bark Mulch - Ornamental bark, produced from pine and typically sized between 8-35mm, is visually appealing and helps to suppress weeds while aiding moisture retention. Play Bark is aesthetically appealing while satisfying British safety regulations and has been sprayed with anti-fungal formula to prevent harmful spores. It provides a soft landing, so is ideal for a play area/pit for children.

Grass Seed - a multi-purpose grass seed, The All Rounder, is ideal for creating brand new luscious green lawns, as well as patching or over-seeding existing lawns and is designed to produce an attractive hard-wearing lawn that’s ideal for family use.

Fertiliser - advanced formula, slow-release high quality lawn fetiliser which will help to ensure longevity and lock in a healthy, rich colour throughout the seasons.

“We aim to provide a professional, customer focused service to both trade and domestic clients,” says George, “and I am delighted to now be able to extend this to the Aylesbury, Bicester, Thame, Wendover and surrounding area from our new depot at Kingswood, just off the A41 between Aylesbury and Bicester.

“Please visit our website for further information or get in touch as below for advise, quotes, further details or to place an order. You’ll find us excellent value.” l George Davies Turf Ltd, Kingswood Lane, Kingswood, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0RH Tel: 01869 254250 Email: info@georgedaviesturf.co.uk Web: www.georgedaviesturf.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

l

Column: Lucy Ellis ‘Animal Magic’

Holistic health for pets

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holistic approach to health is becoming as popular for pets as it is for owners, but what do we actually mean when we talk about holistic medicine?

Rather than a one-size-fits-all prescription of drugs, a holistic approach to pet health considers a number of environmental factors such as nutrition, living conditions, family relationships, and any stressful changes to current conditions, as well as the medical history and illness pattern.

A disease can present itself in many different ways and instead of treating each symptom in isolation, a holistic vet will take time to consider all symptoms and changes to the pet to treat the condition as a whole. It is natural and humane, minimally invasive and looks after patient well-being with reduced stress.

Nutrition: Raw feeding is the most natural way to feed

our carnivorous pets and so is the starting block for a holistic approach to health. By giving your pet a balanced nutritious raw diet, you are giving them the optimum chance at having a strong immune system. Over time you will learn which protein your pet prefers, but there are superfoods that you can add, such as tripe, which can really boost their overall health. If raw feeding doesn’t suit your lifestyle, then you should opt for a high quality whole prey diet.

Natural Supplements: In addition to feeding a balanced diet, you can add a variety of natural supplements to assist your pet in maintaining a healthy body. Apple cider vinegar has many benefits including good skin and a shiny coat, as well as keeping fleas at bay, diatomaceous earth aids intestinal health and can help prevent worms, golden paste can reduce inflammation, while glucosamine eases the joints of active, elderly or

large breed dogs.

Homeopathic Remedies: Homeopathy in both humans and animals alike is based on the principle of “like cures like” and has been around as natural relief for a number of ailments for centuries. A holistic veterinarian can prescribe a variety of herbs that work individually, or in conjunction with each other, to treat not only your pet’s symptoms, but the underlying root issue. An initial homeopathic consultation can differ from a conventional veterinary visit as they will consider your pet’s character, emotional well-being and environmental conditions, alongside the physical health of the animal.

Physical Therapies: As well as food and herbal supplements, a holistic approach to health will also include physical therapies, where required, to restore a pet’s well-being. This can range from acupuncture and canine Bowen,

Lucy Ellis

Animal Magic McTimoney Chiropractic and canine massage, to hydrotherapy.

Many of these treatments can be used to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as restoring the joints and ligaments back to health. They may be prescribed as a one-off course or an on-going treatment depending on your pet’s condition.

To find about holistic medicine and the benefits of raw feeding, you can attend a seminar by holistic vet, Dr Nick Thompson, at Unique Pets in Aylesbury on May 19th. See our website www.uniquepets.co.uk or ask in store for more information. l Lucy Ellis is a writer and

blogger who with Jenna Tomlins runs Unique Pets (Aylesbury & Winslow), independent pet shops, www.uniquepets.co.uk

See our Easter Spring babies

l The Green Dragon Eco Farm, Play Centre & Eaterie, Claydon Road, Hogshaw, Bucks, MK18 3LA W: www.greendragonecofarm.co.uk Open daily 10am-5.30pm

Feed the lambs!

Green Dragon Roadshow

W

ith their new Roadshow, Green Dragon can bring all the fun and fascination of the farm to your door, whether you’re a school, group or birthday party, and there’s a variety of animals to choose from – from the cold-blooded to the feathery and furry!

And for those who prefer the farm environment, Green Dragon is now offering VIP Animal Encounters for individuals or small groups on the farm. For all ages, these special encounters are tailorBook The made, led by one of the livestock team and are ideal for Green Dragon that special gift!

Roadshow

Wildlife Reserve for 2018 on your doorstep!

T

he family-friendly Green Dragon ‘Spring Babies’ event will host a variety of themed, educational and fun experiences and activities.

During the school holidays, there will be a full programme of animal encounters with lots of new babies to get close to, such as Oxford Sandy and Black piglets, goat kids, ducklings and chicks!

And the rare breed ewes are getting ready for lambing season here at Green Dragon too, so there’ll be plenty of new 60

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

born lambs to bottle feed by the Easter holidays. They’ll come in all shapes and sizes as there are seven different rare breeds of sheep on the farm!

Special Guests, the local Wildlife Trust (BBOWT) and the RSPB will be providing activities and information about native species. Visitors can also try out the Spring Babies’ Quiz Trail be entered in the Easter Prize Draw and enjoy self-led crafts.

G

reen Dragon’s 45 acres are already home to rare breed farm animals and pets, so the next step is to celebrate native wildlife and the conservation of our natural world with a British & European wildlife reserve for 2018. This will include extra-large enclosures where responsibly-sourced animals will be housed for captive breeding and potential release into the wild.

An extensive daily encounters programme will provide visitors

with amazing hands-on experiences, displays and demonstrations.

Funding for the building of the reserve will come from the business, a rural development grant and a fundraising campaign seeking support from nature lovers to corporates. To get involved with this exciting new local resource go to: www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/ greendragon-wildlife-reserve l For more details about the roadshow, VIP encounters, birthday parties or events ring: 01296 670444 or email: events@ greendragonecofarm.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 : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Aylesbury Waterside Theatre says: “Step Inside Luv” for there’s a melodic mix of bands and musicals to feast your ears on this Spring, whether your bag is Country Rock, British Pop, 70s Disco or a medley of dramatic Bond themes, ‘Go your own Way’ and enjoy a night of music to make you feel good…

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nyone who had a heart (or passion for good music!) will not want to miss April’s mega music line up at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre.

It all kicks off with Cilla the Musical (Tuesday 10th - Saturday 14th April) written

by BAFTA® award-winning Jeff Pope, this heart-warming musical adaptation of the critically-acclaimed hit ITV television series, tells the story of the ordinary girl from Liverpool whose teenage dreams of stardom lead to her becoming one of Britain’s bestloved entertainers of all time.

Kara Lily Hayworth who stars as the leading lady herself, has a local connection: “I was brought up in Buckinghamshire,” says Kara. “So when I saw the show would be touring to my home county I was chuffed.

It will be a lovely feeling playing in a local theatre, and a pretty spectacular one at that.

The Waterside is beautiful and I look forward to bringing Cilla back into the building, it’s quite poignant really as she starred in the

Cilla the Musical - Tuesday 10th to Saturday 14th April

venue’s first ever pantomime back in 2010.”

One of the most-loved bands of all time are played tribute to on Tuesday 17th April with Rumours of Fleetwood Mac channelling the spirit of the band and endorsed by none other than founding member, Mick Fleetwood himself.

The world’s official No.1 Eagles tribute band, The Illegal Eagles returns on Saturday 21st April promising acute attention to detail

Rumours of Fleetwood Mac - Tuesday 17th April

Kara Lily Hayworth plays Cilla

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

and classic Eagles tracks including: Hotel California, Desperado, Take It Easy, Life in the Fast Lane, New Kid In Town, Lyin’ Eyes and many more. Vale Life editor Charlie has seen them and says they are amazing - “brilliant musicianship, superb harmony vocals and impossible to tell from the real thing” - don’t miss!

Another rip-roaring sound fest comes courtesy of Money For Nothing (Thursday 19th

The James Bond Band perform in The James Bond Concert Spectacular on Sunday, April 8th Shalamar - Saturday 28th April

April) recreating the distinct sound of Dire Straits in an unforgettable sonic spectacular, and for fans of the swinging 60s, look no further than The Sensational 60s Experience (Friday 20th April) featuring Mike Pender (The Searchers), Herman’s Hermits, The Fortunes and New Amen Corner.

Ending the month in epic style is charttopping trio Shalamar (Saturday 28th April).

With four top 20 singles under their belt including A Night to Remember, Friends, There It Is and I Can Make You Feel Good audiences are set to go crazy with a dynamic blend of funky feel-good music.

A slightly different musical offering for 007 fans comes in an evening of the best songs from the iconic movies. The James Bond Concert Spectacular (Sunday 8th April) features songs from movies including Goldfinger, Diamonds Are Forever, Skyfall, Thunderball, Live And Let Die,

Goldeneye and Licence To Kill amongst others.

With top musicians and an amusing compere, enjoy the Bond theme songs like never before.

Book now! Call 0844 871 7607 (Bkg fee.

Calls 7p per min plus your phone company’s access charge) or visit www.atgtickets.com/ aylesbury (bkg fee). l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

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

Money For Nothing - Thursday 19th April Abba Mania James Bond Concert Spectacular Cilla the Musical Rumours of Fleetwood Mac Money for Nothing The Sensational 60s Experience Viva Neil Diamond (Second Space) Shalamar

Fri 6th April Sun 8th April Tue 10th to Sat 14th April Tue 17th April Thur 19th April Fri 20th April Fri 27th April Sat 28th April

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

63

l

Our new music columnist is Skanky Chaz: musician, songwriter, band manager, agent, sunworshipper and connoisseur of fine lager. Would you trust this man? Well it’ll do no harm to send him details of your local music activities - contact charlie@valelife.co.uk and add your gigs to our website what’s on diary for free at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Live Music MARCH 24th Tring Chamber Music (Classical) Waddesdon Manor, Aylesbury

Dizzie Tring & District Conservative Club, Tring

Alan Warner & friends Tetsworth Sports & Social Club 25th Marillion + Howard Jones +

John Otway + Dung Beatles Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

Jackson Duo Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 29th Jamnation Aylesbury Shootpool

Craig Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 31st nbs Aristocrat, Aylesbury

Three Bar Fire The Hop Pole, Aylesbury April 1st Nightjar Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 5th Jamnation Shootpool, Aylesbury

Nick Breakspear Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough

First Thursday Music Club The James Figg, Thame 6th Free State Revolution The Black Horse, Tring 7th Taylor’d Country Shootpool

RockBone The Bell Inn, Tring 12th Leech Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 13th Mick Pini Limelight Theatre, Aylesbury 14th The Reformers Shootpool

Blue Streak The Nightingale,

Bicester 15th The Rock Buds Dukes Winebar, Princes Risborough 20th The Measures The Unicorn, Cublington 22nd Smooth Operator Anglers Retreat, Marsworth 26th Sandy Lenny Jack & Alice, Thame 27th Skamungas The Legion Club, Wendover

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Turn it up! with Skanky Chaz Billy’s finger pickin’ good

Music Column:

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ocal Thame guitar star Billy Watman will be back to entertain the crowds at Music in the Park at Elm Park, Thame on Sunday, May 6th. He’ll thrill the audience with a genredefying fresh new approach, featuring a repertoire spanning Classical, Flamenco and Pop, through to Electronic Trance and Classic Rock – all on one guitar.

Billy will get you singing along to classic songs by artists such as Queen, Led Zeppelin, Iron Maiden, Tommy Emmanuel and The Eagles.

Billy is an award-winning 16-year-old Anglo-Brazilian classical / flamenco / fingerstyle guitarist, inspired by the likes of Rodrigo y Gabriela, Tommy Emmanuel, Mike Oldfield and Paco De Lucia. In early 2016, at the age of just 14, Billy successfully auditioned for ‘Guitar Star’ - a guitar-based talent show open to all ages and genres on Sky Arts TV in the UK and stunned audiences with some

Subwoofers

extraordinary performances - for judges and mentors including Jazz legend George Benson, Classical Virtuoso Miloš Karadagli, Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi, and David Bowie’s long-time producer Tony Visconti - who described him as ‘a little boy genius’. You can find out more about Billy at: www. billywatman.com.

Advance tickets for Music in the Park are available online

Hearing Dogs The Dung Beatles music festival

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new partnership between Bucks New University and Hearing Dogs for Deaf People will see live music performed at the charity’s home in Saunderton this summer. A fun day out has been planned for all the family with live music, entertainment and attractions that’ll leave everyone smiling.

The event, called SubWoofers, will take place during the bank holiday weekend on Sunday 6th May at Hearing Dogs, The Grange, Saunderton, Bucks HP27 9NS, from 1pm until 7pm.

The line up of acts and attractions will soon be announced, and everyone is busy ensuring everything is covered to make this a highly inclusive event, with live signing on stage for BSL users, disabled access, family-friendly fairground rides and of course, dogs welcome!

Tickets are on sale priced: £15 std, £10 (children/concs) and £30 for a family ticket (2 adults & 2 children). See: www.buckslive.co.uk or www.hearingdogs.org.uk

at: www.wegottickets.com/ event/427258.

Tickets cost: Family (two adults and three children) £25; Adult £10; Concessions £7 (Plus 10% booking fee).

To keep up-to-date with news of next year’s Music in the Park event, visit the Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ MusicInTheParkThame or website: www.musicinthepark. org.uk

l

Column: Showtime! with Shaun Nolan

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Audition for me!

W

hen I sat down to write my column for this issue, it hadn’t actually occurred to me that this would in fact be my second anniversary of writing for Vale Life Magazine - many happy returns to myself! It was, in fact, two years ago to the day I’m writing this now that I wrote my first column, so I’ve really hit the nail on the head here (incidentally, it’s my birthday this week too, so it’s all going on right now!) I just want to take a quick moment to say a massive thank you to all of you who regularly tuck in to read my column. Somehow, it’s become a bit of a “thing”, so much so that I’ve met several people around Aylesbury who have identified me as being “the boy who writes the theatre column in Vale Life” when I first met them – it’s crazy! I’m so grateful to Charlie the Editor for letting me share these nuggets of theatre magic each issue and I look forward to continuing to do it for

yet another year.

While I’m on the topic of myself and the Vale, I’d like to take the opportunity to invite all you budding actors out there to the auditions for a show I’m directing at the Queen’s Park Arts Centre in September.

Unbound Theatre have very kindly taken me under their wing and let me direct one of my favourite plays of all-time, John Guare’s multi-award-winning smash Six Degrees of Separation… but I need actors! If you’re interested, no matter who you are, there is definitely a role for you in this one.

Auditions take place April 29th & May 6th. For more info, be sure to drop my producer Dario a line at dario@qpc.org and I look forward to seeing you there!

Right then, on to my normal stuff now. This month at the Court Theatre in Tring, Karen Banfield returns with another smash Murder on Camera event (15th March to 17th March). This interactive

Shaun Nolan Showtime!

Strangers on a Train dinner-theatre piece has been running for almost a decade now, so make sure you’re a part of the movement. Or if murder mystery isn’t your style, why not catch Phill Jupitus at the Court when his latest solo show takes the stage on March 29th?

As for the Aylesbury Waterside, there’s something for everyone to get their teeth into this month. A fan of a good play? Strangers on a Train pulls into the station, March 19th to 24th. Or are you a fan of one-night romp? La Voix brings her latest show to the Waterside on March 30th. Or if musicals are more your taste then try the Cilla Black musical, Cilla, which plays at the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre

from April 10th to 14th.

Meanwhile in Thame at The Players Theatre, King Donald the 1/5th is the latest production from The Rattle ‘n’ Roll Players on Sunday, April 1st. Writer Gabriel Channan has taken the story of Donald Trump and reset it in a fictional land long ago - a lighthearted but horrifying tale!

Something for everyone indeed so now all you have to do is decide what to see next! l Shaun Nolan is a freelance writer who, when he isn’t writing columns for different publications, is typically found writing his own fictional stories and scripts. You can find him at @shaunycat on Twitter and if you want your show mentioned in this column, tweet him and let him know!

Win tickets to Beaconfest!

I

f you’re reading this right now, it means you’re curious, curious about Beaconfest.

Then let us take you by the hand and lead you on a short journey through the festival, it will only take a minute.

Imagine a sunset! You’re thinking the Bahamas, Mauritius maybe?

Well what if we told you that the most beautiful sunset is much closer than you think, in fact right under your nose, here in Oxfordshire, and occurs near the longest day of the year.

Believe us, or not, allow us to set the scene... Music is playing from the main stage, you have a huge smile on your face because you’re really enjoying this band and you’ve never heard of them before! You have discovered some new, up and coming bands this weekend but this is your favourite.

Your child is sat on your shoulders blowing bubbles and the soap keeps dripping on your forehead but you don’t mind, it’s making you laugh. Your partner is by your side

Rusty Shackle

having a little jig. Then a friend walks over with a beer for you and a Mojito from the cocktail bar for your partner. You’ll probably get an ice cream for the littlen in a bit when they’ve finished dripping soap on your forehead. Your stomach is full from sampling some fantastic food at the stalls, there’s probably still room for a bit of cheese later though?

Your thoughts wander for a moment and you laugh to yourself at the thought of trying to put that tent up yesterday (why can you never remember how it goes up?). Then after relaxing in the camping chairs for a moment and congratulating yourselves for finally

succeeding, you take the children to go and play in the ‘kids zone’, all laughter and giggles.

Then you wander round the stalls and buy yourself a bowler hat, it suits you, (or so you think?). Your friends arrive, so you pull up a hay bale, sit and chat and listen to the many varied acts whilst washing it down with a local cider from the bar.

And then, there’s that sunset that we were talking about! It’s beautiful from this vantage point, just setting over the main stage and you can see for miles, you didn’t realise how far. Then they light the Beacon! And that smile’s back again!!!

Still curious? Then why not follow us to Beaconfest (June 15th-16th 2018), one of the best family music festivals in the Chilterns? You won’t be disappointed, we promise!

Weekend tickets are available now for Beaconfest 2018 and selling fast, see: www.beaconfestival.net Adult, (16 and Over) is £ 39.50 per person for the weekend.

Under 16s are free but must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Camping is an additional £10 per adult and free for U16s.

Friday night headliners on The Sunset Stage are fabulous and frantic folksters Rusty Shackle and on Saturday it’s tribute band The Killeaz. There’s a Beacon Stage, A Hilltop Stage, a Youth Stage, a Late Night Comedy Tent, a Feel Good area, food, drink and much more... day tickets available from May 1st. l Beaconfest, Watlington Hill Farm, Watlington Hill, Christmas Common, OX49 5HS www.beaconfestival.net Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Column: Nicola Lisle ‘Classical Lass’

So Russell, what’s on?!

H

ello and welcome to my new column, where I’ll be highlighting some of the best classical music, opera and ballet across the region. There are several fabulous events coming up, so shake off those winter blues and enjoy some musical treats!

The month starts with the ultimate crowd-pleaser, the bestselling classical crossover artist Russell Watson. Catch him at Milton Keynes Theatre on 1st April with his brand new show, Canzoni d’Amore.

Also at Milton Keynes is the Welsh National Opera with three opera classics: Tosca, Don Giovanni and La forza del destino (April 4th-7th), all sung in Italian with English and Welsh surtitles.

Northern Ballet follows on 17th-21st April with new ballet The Little Mermaid, based on the classic tale by Hans Christian Anderson.

There’s more opera in May

l Column: Peter

Elena Dee as Cio Clo San in Madame Butterfly

when Ellen Kent brings her lavish, no-expense-spared productions of La Traviata and Madama Butterfly to Aylesbury’s Waterside Theatre (4th-5th May), with La Traviata also appearing at Wycombe Swan on 16th May. Both productions are sung in Italian with English surtitles, and feature the spectacular costumes and sets for which Ellen Kent is famous.

If you like classical music concerts in beautiful and unusual settings, head over to Stowe House on 8th April to hear baroque

ensemble Fiori Musicali play pieces by Mozart, Haydn and Boccherini against the backdrop of Stowe’s elegant State Music Room.

There is an optional pre-concert reception in the equally stunning Marble Saloon.

Another unusual and very special setting is Waddesdon Manor’s Archive and Reading Room at Windmill Hill, which every so often gets transformed into a 120seat concert venue for the Music at Windmill Hill series. Coming up on 19th May is acclaimed harpsichordist and Bach specialist Steven Devine in Bach and the Dance – An Evening of Harpsichord Masterpieces. This is one of my favourite venues – I highly recommend it!

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is at Wycombe Swan on 29th April with a programme of Rossini, Mozart and Dvorak, then on 10th May heads to Aylesbury Waterside Theatre with an allBeethoven programme.

Nicola Lisle

Classical Lass Other concerts worth catching during April include Buckingham Choral Society performing Mozart Classics at the Church of St Peter and St Paul, Buckingham (7th April), Thame Choral Society singing Mendelssohn’s Elijah at St Mary’s Church, Thame (21st April) and Aylesbury Symphony Orchestra playing Malcolm Arnold’s Trumpet Concerto (with soloist Matilda Lloyd), Elgar’s Enigma Variations and other works at Aylesbury Vale Academy (29th April). l Nicola Lisle is a freelance writer and author specialising in classical music, genealogy and social history.

Follow her on Twitter @NicolaLisle1 and send her a tweet if you would like your concert or show mentioned in this column.

Purvis ‘Not that Peter Purvis’

Just dying for a laugh

I

’ve died many times - in the comedic rather than Buddhist sense. It’s part and parcel of being a stand-up, but it’s downright painful. However, if you have sufficiently funny bones and a willingness to schlepp all over the country to notch up the gigs, hone your material and performance skills, then slowly the number of on-stage annihilations declines. But dying on stage never entirely ends.

It happens to even the greatest comics. You can be soaring high, having a run of terrific gigs, and then you crash and burn like Icarus.

My most painful death was probably a seedy seaside gig four years ago, when, to a large extent, I was the architect of my own demise. I had come to the gig from a funeral in North London – and that should have been some sort of omen. I’d invited one of my oldest friends – he was my best man - along to see me for the first 66

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time. It was a well-paid gig and in a fit of hubris I’d said that I was able to open the gig with a twenty minute set. The reality was that I struggled back then to sustain ‘Fred’ much beyond 15 minutes and, being a rather unusual turn, I was not a natural opening act.

It was summer and the venue was in the basement of a grotty pub. It was rammed with drunk and raucous middle-aged punters, mainly men of a bald and tattooed persuasion. There were, coincidentally, two fiftieth birthday celebrations that looked like they had been underway since dawn, and the parties seemed to be in some sort of rivalry, certainly as far as drinking large amounts of booze was concerned. The mood in the airless, fetid room was toxic and at one point I saw two old geezers square up to each other.

The compere was sweating badly as she started the show, contending

from the outset with a heckler, who appeared to be a pig farmer.

He joined her, uninvited, on stage to inform her how unfunny she was (which to be fair, was true).

Eventually, he was persuaded to leave, and almost immediately, the moist, trembling compere introduced me.

My set started extremely badly and went downhill from there. The bemused, tetchy audience had no understanding of the irony that underpins my act. My anti-comedic deconstruction of comedic tropes was as foreign to their alcohol, heat-befuddled brains as SerboCroat is to my deaf cat.

I left the stage after eight mortifying minutes. Later, the promoter refused to pay me. And my friend Lee was so embarrassed for me that he avoided mentioning the gig afterwards. I later had a bad panic attack and at three in the morning rang The Samaritans.

Peter Purvis The highs are very high in stand-up comedy but the lows are very low indeed! I survived ‘dying’, though, it’s a kind of stand-up reincarnation, and it’s true – you learn much more from the bad gigs than the ones that you ‘smash’. I learned to choose my gigs with greater care in future and not be a ‘chancer’. l Peter is from Aylesbury and performs stand-up as Fred Ferenczi. He has just been awarded Leicester Comedy Festival Silver Comedian of the Year and is currently previewing his show ‘Fred Ferenczi’s Attic of Desolate Fulfillment’ in local venues.

l

Column: Sandra Smith ‘Our Creative Vale’

Portrait of an artist A

sking award winning portrait artist, Peter Keegan, to share the most satisfying aspects of his career brings a response as immediate as it is confident.

And why not? Peter, who has been exhibiting work since his teens, is uncannily self assured. There’s no reason he shouldn’t be, of course, given his skill and success. Still, such an assertive aura and business like attitude are uncommon qualities amongst artists.

“Professional development,” Peter begins in response to my question. “It’s good to set the bar slightly higher and aim to produce milestone paintings, better than anything you’ve ever done before.”

He continues with acknowledgement of the public and their appreciation of the portraits he creates. “There’s a wonderful buzz when you get a painting right, it resonates with people at an emotional level.”

Based at the Claydon Estate, a

Peter Keegan (self portrait) venue which is rapidly morphing into a hub for the arts, Peter stresses his need to get to the heart of a sitter. Reproducing an image is only successfully achieved by first familiarising himself with, then understanding, the subject. Hence the importance of time spent crafting visual notes

including personal details, in essence, “their soul.” Then the painting process begins.

“I start by priming the canvas and kill the white by putting on a generic base colour. I draw with a brush using thinned down turpsy oil. This may take around half an hour. Then with big brushes I bring out flesh tones, working dark to light. It’s like making a cake; I do the bulky work first followed by the icing.”

A consistent theme throughout his profession has been a desire – craving – to share and inspire others. His genuine, outgoing personality makes him a natural with people, a quality which has contributed to the popularity of his courses. As well as regular sessions and workshops (all materials provided) his studio is available (for a small fee) on Wednesdays to any artist who wants to come along and paint. Advice from Peter is included though not obligatory.

“Anyone can do art if they

Creative Vale

Sandra Smith follow the rules of colour, tone and perspective. I have an obligation as a professional to pass on good common practice.”

What more could you ask for?

Whether you want to commission a portrait, start a hobby or improve your artistic skills, Peter Keegan overflows with knowledge and enthusiasm. And he’s waiting to hear from you. www.peterkeegan.co.uk l Find out more about Sandra

Smith’s work as a freelance writer by following her on Twitter: @TheCurrentMrsS or visiting her website: www.TheCurrentMrsSmith.co.uk

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l

Column: Nick Coffer ‘In the kitchen’

Guvec - Turkish chicken cooked in a clay pot

S

ometimes someone walks into the Weekend Kitchen studio and one of their dishes just brings with it all the aroma and flavour of its country of origin. This Chicken Guvec (pronounced ‘Goo-Vetch’) has all of the evocative elements of classic Turkish cooking. The meltingly tender meat and the

unmistakable flavour of sweet peppers. The recipe was created

by Yuksel Couling, who set up her catering company (http:// www.pomegranatesumac.com) in Wilstead near Bedford when friends and family made it clear to her that her talents were being wasted just cooking for them! She uses the exact same principles her

Turkish upbringing gave her - cook generously, simply and deliciously with fresh ingredients.

Don’t worry if you don’t have a clay pot to use. Any form of oven proof dish will be fine. If you can get to a Turkish shop, buy their proper Turkish pepper paste for this. If not, supermarkets have plenty of acceptable variants.

everything well.

500g boneless chicken thighs, cut into slightly smaller pieces 1 large onion, thickly sliced 2 large green peppers thickly sliced. You can use any peppers you like here but the long green Turkish peppers are the most authentic 1 tbsp hot pepper paste 1 tbsp tomato purée 2 tomatoes, sliced 1 tsp dried thyme or oregano 1 tsp salt 50 ml sunflower oil 100 ml water

Pour the oil into your pot (it doesn’t have to be a clay pot). Add the chicken mixture and sauté for 5 minutes. Add the water and stir.

Place the sliced tomatoes on top of the chicken mixture in the pot, and cover. Cook in the oven at 180C/ Gas Mark 4 for 30 minutes. To cook on the hob, simmer it for 30 minutes.

Serve with plain rice and salad. l Hear wonderful recipes on Nick Coffer’s Weekend Kitchen every Sunday morning on BBC Three Counties radio at 11am.

You can also join Nick weekday afternoons at midday for music plus local guests with great stories.

Harvest Moon

Tastefully decorated, authentic Chinese restaurant, serving traditional dishes to suit every taste. Eat-in and takeaway service.

Perfect for parties - we can cater for groups of up to 50 people.

Harvest Moon, 1 Pump Lane, Thame, Oxon, OX9 3BT Tel: 01844 215272 / 214834 Email: harvestmoonthame@gmail.com Website: www.harvestmoonthame.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Nick Coffer

To serve 4, you’ll need

Method: Place the chicken and the rest of ingredients (except for the oil and sliced tomatoes) into a mixing bowl. Mix

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In the kitchen

Win a meal at The Black Horse

T

rot into the Cornmarket at the heart of historic Thame and you’ll find The Black Horse. Once a rowdy drinking house it has been taken over by the White Brasserie Company and lovingly restored to enhance the building’s historic features. The building is believed to date back to the 16th Century and its charmingly restored, period features can now be appreciated - original wood panelling and oak beams set beautifully alongside vintage furniture, whilst dark oak floors are offset by sage green walls, tartan fabrics and ‘Toile de Jouy’ wallpaper.

With a snug and bar space, the pub is full of cosy nooks that are perfect for lazy days grazing and sipping. A bright and airy ‘Garden Room’ leads out onto a paved courtyard space - ideal for lunchtime pints, star-lit evenings and al fresco dinners.

The original coach house has been given a new lease of life and transformed into an impressive dining room, decked with striking metal chandeliers strung between the sturdy original beams - the

PRESS INFORMATION Lotte Kendall / Annette Neto lotte@rochecom.com / Annette@rochecom.com 020 7436 1111

perfect spot for weekend family lunches, parties and celebrations.

It is a most comfortable and welcoming Oxfordshire pub serving delicious seasonal food, craft ales and fantastic wines, if you haven’t tried it yet, pull up a chair, it could become your favourite new local.

The menu features dishes influenced by British pub classics and French brasserie favourites, no doubt inspired by a certain Msr Blanc. The all-day menu offers seasonal food freshly prepared with carefully-sourced quality

PRESS INFORMATION Lotte Kendall / Annette Neto lotte@rochecom.com / Annette@rochecom.com 020 7436 1111

ingredients. Diners can expect mains such as a deluxe sharing dish of Coq au Vin; Corn-fed Guinea Fowl with a Medley of Root Vegetables, Lardons and Rich Wine Sauce; handmade weekly pie specials, as well as a selection of Cornish free-range Steaks.

A fragrant Malabar Fish Curry comes topped with Grilled King Prawns and Shallot Crisps, whilst creative vegetarian dishes include Black Truffle and Wild Mushroom Risotto, and earthy Pumpkin and Toasted Pine Nut Ravioli.

PRESS INFORMATION Lotte Kendall / Annette Neto lotte@rochecom.com / Annette@rochecom.com 020 7436 1111

A selection of British cheese is available to follow, as well as indulgent desserts from pillowy Pistachio Soufflé to Three Fruit Marmalade Crème Brûlée and Normandy Apple Tart. The children’s Henri le Worm menu is guaranteed to tickle tiny taste buds, whilst older children can order half price half portions from the main menu.

If you’d like to be in with the chance of winning a three course lunch for two with a bottle of house wine at The Black Horse, Thame, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question, to: editor@vale-life.co.uk Who is the famous French chef behind the White Brasserie Company?

Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by email by 20th April, 2018.

l The Black Horse, 11 Cornmarket, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 2BL Tel: 01844 219050 blackhorsethame@whitebrasserie.com www.www.blackhorsethame.com FB: BHThame Twitter: @BHThame

PRESS INFORMATION Lotte Kendall / Annette Neto lotte@rochecom.com / Annette@rochecom.com 020 7436 1111 PRESS INFORMATION PRESS INFORMATION Lotte Kendall / Annette Neto Lotte Kendall / Annette Neto lotte@rochecom.com / Annette@rochecom.com lotte@rochecom.com / Annette@rochecom.com 020 7436 1111 020 7436 1111

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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l

Column: ‘Kiss & tell’ with Tracy Kiss

Paradise found in Marlow

Tracy Kiss

Kiss & tell

B

eing a huge fan of flavour, taste and texture, I’m naturally drawn to Indian cuisine, yet finding vegan friendly restaurants locally can be rather tricky. As time passes more brands, chefs and establishments are turning towards a meat and dairy free diet and 2018 has seen the biggest rise in veganism ever, which is very promising.

Having thoroughly enjoyed the vegan tasting menu at Hawkyn’s Restaurant in Amersham, by chef Atul Kochhar, I was pretty excited to go to Marlow and see what his Sindhu restaurant had to offer.

Atul Kochhar is a British based critically acclaimed chef, restaurateur and television personality and the second Indian

l

chef to receive a Michelin star.

He combines his passion for the very best of traditional Indian cuisine with his love of using only the finest British ingredients and an uplifting contemporary twist, at the Sindhu Restaurant.

Situated on the River Thames within the very elegant Macdonald Compleat Angler Hotel’s opulently wood panelled restaurant, it is the most stunning setting for a long lunch with friends or a romantic evening for two.

The immediate view of the river, fine tableware and meticulous attention to detail was breathtaking and the staff all attentive, welcoming and passionate about the service; it was an absolute pleasure to discuss the menu, chef’s

recommendations and dietary requirements - I decided on the seven course vegan tasting menu!

Within minutes of arriving for lunch the restaurant filled with enthusiastic diners, couples, families and work colleagues alike and there wasn’t a single spare seat - testament to the restaurant’s high popularity and flawless reputation.

Dining from a tasting menu is the best way to capture the essence of a chef, allowing you to try small amounts of a variety of dishes, some of which you might never have chosen yourself from the menu.

I like to experiment with food where possible yet sometimes fall short when I see my favourites on a menu, as it’s all too easy to

stick to what we know and love best. So the tasting menu is a perfect introduction and ideal for a long weekend lunch on an empty stomach.

The quality of the food, preparation and presentation was superb and Atul Kochhar’s passion for fine Indian cuisine is backed up with an exquisite flair that very few possess yet is evident throughout his vibrant menus for all dietary requirements. His restaurants are an absolute ‘must-visit’ for foodies of all persuasions. www.sindhurestaurant.co.uk l Read Tracy’s blog at: www.tracykiss.com or follow her on: Twitter: @misstracykiss or Facebook: /TheTracyKiss

Column: Heather Jan Brunt ‘This farming life’

History in the making!

H

istory was created earlier this year when the National Farmers Union appointed their first female president.

Wiltshire beef farmer Minette Batters was voted in at the AGM held in Birmingham in February, taking over from Meurig Raymond who had decided to step down after four years.

Ms Batters was previously the NFU deputy president and has held many roles in the organisation from grassroots upwards. Now, she will lead the organisation as the country moves towards Brexit.

Upon her appointment she said: “I am delighted to have been elected as president of the NFU and I am grateful to all the members who have given me the opportunity to lead our industry through Brexit and beyond.

“At the heart of the NFU is its members and I would like the organisation to aim even higher on their behalf. British farming is in the spotlight like never before

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Minette Batters and this is a great opportunity to reposition the sector in the eyes of the nation.”

I met Ms Batters in November last year when she gave an address at the AGM of the Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire NFU at Milton Common near Thame. She spoke then of her background and her love of farming and came across as an impressive, confident and successful businesswoman.

She grew up living and working on a farm with no succession tenancy available. It wasn’t until

1998 that she was able to secure a long term Farm Business Tenancy.

She built the business from nothing to over 300 head of stock with a herd of pedigree Hereford cattle running alongside a herd of 100 Simmental cross suckler cows.

In addition to her traditional mixed farming business (she also has sheep and some arable land), she also runs a horse livery, a wedding and corporate events venue and a catering business specialising in home grown produce.

She now employs two full time and up to 20 part time staff.

But despite hosting a wedding almost every week of the year, she told the BBO NFU members: “My heart is in farming, I never set out to have a wedding venue, but its been a great contribution to the business.”

An example of where her heart lies is in two campaigning initiatives she co-founded – Ladies in Beef and Great British Beef Week.

Her commitment to the NFU

This farming life Heather Jan Brunt

has been thorough. She was deputy president for four years prior to her appointment as the first female president. Before that she was a member from the grassroots through to county chairman. She also served as Wiltshire’s council delegate and also as a regional board chairman for the South West.

Ms Batters was a member of the NFU Governance Board and the agricultural representative on the SW Environment Agency Flood and Coastal Committee.

In her role as president she will work alongside deputy president Guy Smith and vice president Stuart Roberts. l Heather Jan Brunt is a journalist

and a farmer’s wife. You can follow her on Twitter @HJBjournalist

l

Column: Deli delights with Joe and Hannah

A glass of sunshine A lthough we have had lots of snow recently and there is more forecast! Here at The Deli at No.5 we are thinking of Spring and sunshine and to us Spring and sunshine mean Beer, Cider and Wine!

We have quite a range of British drinks on our shelves at No.5 but here are three particular favourites at the moment.

First we are going to talk beer! Brewed in an 18th Century farmhouse on the stunning North Cornwall coast The Atlantic Brewery make some fantastic Organic Ales.

The one we recommend for an early spring tipple is their Azores beer - a naturally brewed pale ale.

American Cascade hops combined with English First Gold to produce a balanced mid-Atlantic blend of grapefruit and orange with a gentle bitter backdrop.

At 4.2% ABV it is not too strong

or heavy so knocking back a couple in the Spring sunshine shouldn’t leave you on the floor!

Next on the agenda is a tiny unique cider by Bumble Bee Cider in Goring-on-Thames.

Bumble Bee uses the best British cider apples from across the country and this particular cider called Regatta is blended

beautifully with strawberry and mint to create an amazing drink which will go hand in hand with the Spring sunshine.

At 4% ABV it is not overly strong and with lots of ice and fresh fruit you can’t go wrong.

Now I don’t know how many of you have heard of Scottish wine but set in amongst the rich fields

Joe & Hannah Deli delights

and hedge-fringed country roads of the Carse of Gowrie, Perthshire sits an amazing Scottish winery.

Since 1987 Cairn O’Morh have been making a variety of fruit and hedgerow award-winning wines.

Their Raspberry wine is our recommendation for a Spring drink, packed full of beautiful Scottish raspberries this wine is balanced very well with a fanfare of fruit and just the right bite.

All of Cairn O’Mohr’s fruit wines are completely vegan. l Joe and Hannah run delicatessen and homeware store The Deli at No5 at 5a Buttermarket, Thame, OX9 3EW, pop in or contact them via: hello@thedeliatno5.co.uk Tel. 01844 214229 www.thedeliatno5.co.uk

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l Column: Alan Candy’s Road to the Future

Volvo scoops awards Traditional marque setting new standards

V

olvo continue to set the pace in global motoring, with accolades showering the revitalised company.

The new Volvo XC40 small SUV (pictured) has been named the 2018 European Car of the Year ahead of the Geneva Motor Show in Switzerland. It is the first win of this prestigious award for Volvo Cars, the premium car maker.

Meanwhile Volvo Cars President and CEO Håkan Samuelsson has been named the 2018 World Car Person of the Year by the World Car of the Year jury.

Alan Candy’s

AltomobilES The XC40 win means that the complete line-up of new global Volvo SUVs have each been named Car of the Year in either Europe or North America. Both the large XC90 and mid-size XC60 were awarded the North American Truck/Utility of the Year title in the past two years.

The 2018 European Car of the Year award follows other

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l Column: Alan Candy’s Road to the Future this is an appealing combination Remember the iconic, almost 10-minute long, sequence in the for customers. The XC40 roll-out film Bullitt which follows Steve will soon extend to China – the McQueen at the wheel of a 1968 world’s biggest car market.

Mustang GT fastback as he chases The XC40 is the first model on two hitmen through the streets of Volvo Cars’ new compact modular San Francisco? vehicle architecture (CMA), which will underpin all upcoming cars in the 40 series, including fully electrified vehicles. The XC40 is also the first Volvo to come with a car-sharing feature, enabled via Volvo’s digital key technology and its connected services platform, Volvo On Call.

XC40 owners can simply share their car with family and friends without having to hand over a physical key.

In another first, the XC40 Ford Mustang Bullitt Special Edition launched Volvo Cars’ new Safety, Run-off Road Protection subscription service, Care by and Mitigation, Cross Traffic Volvo, which offers car access Alert with brake support, via a monthly flat-fee and the 360° camera subscription rather than Have your ownership. new Volvo on a that helps drivers manoeuvre their car Safety and drivermonthly into tight parking assistance features on subscription spaces. the XC40 include Volvo In 2017, the company Cars’ Pilot Assist system, City

Well the new special edition Ford Mustang Bullitt – celebrating the film’s 50th anniversary - made its European debut at the Geneva Motor Show and will go into production for European customers in June.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Mustang Bullitt is powered by Ford’s 5.0-litre V8 engine enhanced with an Open Air Induction System, and intake manifold, 87mm throttle bodies and powertrain control module calibration from the Shelby Mustang GT350, to deliver an anticipated 464 PS and 529 Nm of torque.

It comes in Shadow Black or classic Dark Highland Green and each Mustang Bullitt will feature an individually numbered plaque.

announced its commitment to The Volvo XC60 has been electrify all Volvo Cars launched crowned overall Car of the Year from 2019. In line with at the UK Car of the this leadership position Every new Volvo Year Awards 2018. car launched from This comes only a in electrification, a 2019 will have an month after it was hybridised as well electric motor crowned Best Medium as a pure electric powertrain option for the Crossover by the same XC40 will be added later. judges.

DISCOVER THE MAZDA RANGE AT LODGE GARAGE NEW CAR SALES . MAZDA APPROVED USED . MAZDA SERVICE CENTRE

• Service department with factory-trained technicians • MOTs, tyres, 4 wheel alignment, air con re-gas • Bodyshop facilities inc. Smart repairs and insurance approved work For more information, call us on 01296 770245

LODGE GARAGE MAZDA A41 Bicester Road, Kingswood, Aylesbury, Bucks HP18 0QJ Tel: 01296 770245 www.lodgegarage-mazda.co.uk

The official fuel consumption figures in mpg (l/100km) for the Mazda Range: Urban 28.0 (10.1) - 65.7 (4.3).

Extra Urban 51.4 (5.5) - 80.7 (3.5). Combined 39.2 (7.2) - 74.3 (3.8). CO 2 emissions (g/km) 167 - 99.

The mpg fi gures quoted are sourced from official EU-regulated test results obtained through laboratory testing. These are provided for comparability purposes only and may not refl ect your actual driving results.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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l Column: Alan Candy’s Road to the Future

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

The UK Car of the Year Awards recognise the best new cars on sale in the UK. The awards are judged by 27 leading UK motoring journalists, who all write for influential titles such as The Sunday Times, The Independent, The Telegraph, Top Gear, Auto Express, CAR, Honest John.co.uk, Auto Trader and Motoring.co.uk.

Volvo Cars achieved record profits and sales in 2017, with

a 27.7 per cent increase in operating profit and global sales of 571,577 cars. The results mark the company’s fourth consecutive year of record growth, underlining the transformation of Volvo’s finances and operations under Mr Samuelsson’s stewardship.

Under Mr Samuelsson’s direction, Volvo Cars now has a completely revitalised range that has rolled out seven new models in the past three years.

As part of the new-look range, Volvo for the first time offers three globally available SUVs ¬in the fastest-growing segment in the industry.

During Mr Samuelsson’s tenure, Volvo Cars made an industry-first announcement in 2017 that every new Volvo car launched from 2019 will have an electric motor. Volvo’s commitment to electrification was further underlined by the

Morgan Aero GT

launch of Polestar as a new stand-alone electrified car brand.

THE Morgan Motor Company has revealed its most extreme roadgoing model to date, the Aero GT (pictured left).

The longest established independent automotive manufacturer, Malvern-based Morgan Motor Company will produce just eight of the special Aero GT variants. All vehicles will be individually built bespoke to each customer. The Aero GT represents the end of Aero 8 production, guaranteeing that every Aero 8 owner will be the custodian of a significant piece of Morgan history.

All 8 Aero GTs will be built with a manual transmission.

Powered by the same 367bhp BMW N62 V8 engine used in the Aero 8, the Aero GT will travel from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds, reaching a top speed of 170mph.

AVERAGE CO2 emissions generated by new cars in Europe increased during 2017 – the

Independent Truck, Van & Car Repairer

Servicing l Inspections l MOT preparation l all makes & models l mercedes specialists l Breakdowns l Recovery service l Class 4/7 MOTs l courtesy vehicles l Mobile on-site servicing l

KM Commercials, Unit D8, Brunel Gate, Telford Close, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP19 8AR Tel: 01296 488898 / 07720 706918 Open Monday to Friday 8am-6pm and Saturdays 8am to 1pm

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

first rise in 10 years. The analysis, carried out by JATO Dynamics, covered 23 European markets and found that average CO2 emissions increased by 0.3g/km in 2017 – finishing at 118.1g/km.

This rise in average CO2 emissions correlates with a decrease in demand for diesel cars across Europe – which produce lower CO2 emissions than petrol cars – and the rising popularity of SUVs, which emit higher average CO2 emissions.

THE UK new car market dipped in February, according to figures released by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT).

A total of 80,805 new cars were registered, a -2.8% drop compared with February 2017.

Continuing recent trends, demand for petrol and alternatively fuelled vehicles (AFVs) rose in February, up 14.4% and 7.2% respectively, with the former driven by some new, smaller models coming to market. Registrations of new diesel cars declined -23.5%.

0-60mph in 3.5 secs!? See this Noble beast at London Motor Show A 2018 British Racing Green Noble M600 CarbonSport (pictured right) will be at The Confused.com London Motor Show this May (17th-20th), taking pride of place on the allnew Built In Britain feature.

Designed, engineered and manufactured at Noble’s Leicestershire base, the twin-turbo 4.4-litre V8 M600 CarbonSport is set to be one of the stars of the show at London’s ExCeL. The car boasts a power output of 662bhp, resulting in a top speed of an estimated 225mph and a 0-60mph time of 3.5 seconds.

The CarbonSport is primarily designed for speed and handling, however this is not at the expense of either comfort or

practicality - the cabin features a traditional, bespoke British hand-built finish.

Carbon centre console, door cards and gear knob, hand turned knobs and fine quality wool carpets bound to the edge with leather are also fitted.

Seats are of lightweight carbon

fibre composite construction which can be bespoke.

Tickets for the London Motor Show start at just £18.50 and one child (under 17) goes free with a paying adult. They’re on general sale now and available to purchase at: www.thelondonmotorshow.co.uk

DIESEL INJECTION P E R F O R M A N C E

P LU S

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Diesel Fuel Injection Specialists

Vehicleas Diagnostics, Services and Repairs used by main agents l l l

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Diesel Injector And Pump Testing l

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40 Oakley Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX394ES (to rear of Claremont Automatics) Email: johnnixey@btconnect.com

Telephone: 01844 353388 l Bosch Car Service Centre l MOTs including Class VII (3.5 tonnes) l Servicing, repairs, tyres, exhausts and air

conditioning for cars and light commercials l Diagnostics: we have the most up to date work

shops and equipment in the area

l High ceilings and long ramps enable us to service

long wheelbase vans, campers and trucks

Open Monday to Friday : 8am-5pm Contact: 01296 487400 Email: info@dieselinjectionpp.co.uk www.dieselinjectionpp.co.uk Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

l Column: On

The Road with Rob Auchterlonie

Sales success NISSAN QASHQAI

Q

ashqai is a credit to Nissan’s Britishness. It was designed in London, developed down the road at Cranfield and is built in Sunderland. A British Japanese car that’s been an undoubted success.

The only thing distinctly unBritish is the name, which comes from a desert dwelling nomadic tribe from South West Iran.

And it has been synonymous with racking up the kind of sales success that Nissan had probably hitherto only dreamed off.

Qashqai has sold in significant numbers for them since its launch in 2007. From the start it hit the spot for motorists looking for the best of all worlds in one four wheeled package - the fun-to-drive dynamic abilities more usually associated with conventional passenger cars as well as the tough stance, excellent interior packaging and ‘command’ seating position of an SUV. To many, it’s the car that sparked our current seeming obsession with compact SUVs, a market where Qashqai’s appeal has been shining through and become one of the

Rob Auchterlonie

ON The Road Nissan Qashqai Tekna + 2WD manufacturers realise there’s money to be had by sticking a decent compact crossover in their sales brochure.

Things are getting very Nissan Qashqai Tekna + 2WD crowded out there and the car that has been the fastest selling models in Nissan’s benchmark for a number long history. of years has seen its ultimate ‘best Its arrival spelt the end of cars of the bunch’ crown prised away like the Primera and Almera, and

by SEAT’s excellent Ateca. Other it immediately became one of serious contenders are Renault’s Britain’s best sellers. Just look at Kadjar, the Toyota C-HR, Peugeot the road around you...

3008 and the new VW T-Roc. The latest version freshens But to stay as one of the praised up the package for the sales and favoured by so many motorists race ahead as more and more is testimony to the work put in by

Nissan Qashqai Tekna + 2WD 76

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

Nissan’s engineers to hone and improve an already good car.

Handling is as good as you get in this sector of the market, and the Qashqai in two wheel drive form here and with a 130ps 1.6 litre diesel, developing a healthy 320Nm of torque, can nip along at a fair lick. A touch of over zealousness on your part might see the early onset of some understeer – that speed scrubbing health and safety warning that there might be an ambulance heading your way if you don’t take a bit more care – but there’s nothing anyone should be unduly worried about behind the wheel.

They’ve managed to reduce the noise levels you hear inside so it’s a more refined ride, but smoothness between the lower gears takes a bit of getting used to, such is the willingness of the 130 dCi to get moving. Which it can do quite quickly, so first gear is just to get you moving before you grab second.

The driving seat is very soft and comfortable, and the driving position is good – certainly one that wouldn’t tire you much on a long trip.

There are five trim levels to tempt buyers – Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, Tekna and Tekna +, backed up by a choice of two petrol and two diesel (from sister company Renault) engines.

Standard kit on all variants includes a huge panoramic roof, rear privacy glass, roof bars and ESP, and the latest incarnation has slightly revised styling, and improved cabin and extra equipment.

Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

What it gives you in essence is the SUV experience for the cost of a hatchback.

FOR: economical and well built AGAINST: some rivals do it better now FASTFACTS: Nissan Qashqai Tekna + 2WD; £31,575;

Four cylinder 1598cc diesel, 130ps, 320Nm; Six speed manual; Top speed 118mph, 0-62mph 9.9secs; Fuel – urban 55.4, extra urban 68.9, combined 64.2; CO2 116g/km; Will it fit the garage?

4394/1806/1590 (l/w/h).

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77 Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018 09:32 03/11/2012

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Vale Life : Mar/Apr 2018

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Your complete kitchen service ENGLISH & GERMAN BESPOKE KITCHENS Getting a new kitchen can be a daunting prospect. So we do all we can to make it as painfree as possible. With Ridgeway Kitchens and Interiors you get consistent management of your project throughout and a dependable, in-house team to carry out all work.

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