W Lifestyle | Living | Business - Issue 2 by W Lifestyle | Living

W W MAGAZINE

LIFESTYLE | LIVING | BUSINESS

Soul sensation

BEVERLEY KNIGHT

on why the North East feels like home. Fairytale fashion:

ENCHANTING

winter woodland knits. Savile Row’s

WILLIAM HUNT talks essential workWear.

Wynyard Park chairman

TREVOR CARTNER and his personal development.

SHOPS & THE CITY:

the season’s hottest shopping hotspots.

Welcome... Issue 2 | Winter 2011-12

inter is here. And with it, the snow, Christmas and New Year, the infinite parties and social occasions and more lists than you know what to do with. But fear not, as we have the festive season all wrapped up. This season’s Wishlist (p8) will literally leave you spoilt for

choice as you look for the perfect gift for your loved ones, we’ve chosen the best chairs to make a style statement in your Workspace (p72) and dished up the perfect winter supper (p40), as well as winter’s hottest fashion trends (p16 & 24) and handpicked the 10 most Wanted wreaths. We’ve also enjoyed a Working lunch (p76) with Trevor Cartner, Chairman at Wynyard Park and Chief Executive at Helios Properties, met soul sensation Beverly Knight ahead of her sell-out show in Gateshead (p12) and found out how award winning hair duo Gary Hooker & Michael Young are making it Work (p60) . And, if that wasn’t enough, we’re busy planning our new website. Visit wmagazinene.co.uk in late December to get your daily fix of W Lifestyle | Living | Business. We’d love to hear what you think so please get in touch and let us know what else you’d like to see and hear from the team. In the meantime, all that’s left for me to say is I wish you a very merry Christmas and hope you’ll raise a glass to a prosperous 2012.

p72

Elizabeth Eddy Editor Why not follow the team on Twitter @WMagazineNE?

p37 p60

p40

p76

p12

W W MAGAZINE

LIFESTYLE | LIVING | BUSINESS

BROUGHT TO YOU BY WYNYARD PARK --------------------------------------Issue 2 | Winter 2011-12 EDITOR Elizabeth Eddy ART & DESIGN Design Director: Alan Sawyers Designer: Nic Sawyers Designer: Lisa McFarlane Designer: Peter Barlow Illustrator: Simon Howard Photographer: Saša Savić Photographer: Graham Taylor FEATURES Features Editor: Elizabeth Eddy Features Writer: Jennifer Tate LIVING & LIFESTYLE Lifestyle Editor: Jennifer Tate Homes & Interiors: Madeleine Griffith BUSINESS Business Editor: Leanne English ADVERTISING Sales Manager: Jennifer Tate PRODUCTION Publishing Manager: Nicola Wilson Published by Velvet Communications Ltd. W Lifestyle | Living | Business Magazine Wynyard Park House Wynyard Avenue Wynyard Park Wynyard Stockton on Tees TS22 5TB 0844 854 8621 twitter.com/WMagazineNE wmagazinene.co.uk

Issue 2 | Winter 2011-12

CONTENTS

inside W.

LIFESTYLE | LIVING 69 Wired

12 Word

Beverly Knight bares her soul

16 catWalk

Hey Boy. Hey Girl. One Season. One Party. Two Moods

Enchanting

WINTER WOODLAND fairytale fashion. p24

24 catWalk

Fairytale Fashion – enchanting woodland knitwear

30 Work it

The latest winter skincare, fragrances for him and party hair made simple

The latest high tech gadgets for business and pleasure

70 W life

Solicitor Martin Levinson talks about his working life at Wynyard Park

72 Workspace

Are you sitting comfortably? Office chairs that make a style statement

74 highWay

The love affair with the iconic BMW X5 intensifies

76 Working lunch

34 Wallpaper etc.

Designer Graeme Fuller shares his secrets & the latest interiors trends

40 Wine & dine

The perfect winter supper & this season’s best food and drink

Wynyard Park Chairman, Trevor Cartner, talks about his impressive career over lunch

86 sWing etc.

The wonder of winter golf

44 home & aWay

Pre and post Christmas shopping breaks & the region’s ultimate winter oasis

48 workout & Wellbeing

Health and fitness made simple this winter

49 the last Word

TV presenter Sarah Cawood shares her ‘last’ moments

IN EVERY ISSUE 8 the Wish list

This quarter’s must-have, lust-have items for him, for her & for them

20 What’s hot

The best art, books, film, music & theatre

37 10 most Wanted

The ultimate wreaths to adorn your door

BUSINESS

81 netWorking

Exclusive events and networking opportunities

52 neWs

Breaking business news from across the region

56 marketWise

An optimistic outlook? The region’s export & commercial property markets are investigated

58 wiseWords

Our panel of experts answer your business questions

60 making it Work

Award-winning hair duo, Hooker & Young reveal their business style

64 workWear

William Hunt, tailor to the stars, talks sharp suits and tailoring

ON THE COVER Beverley Knight

Photographed ahead of her sell-out UK tour.

82 the vieW

Society snapshots from across the region

W LIFESTYLE | LIVING

Bring the outdoors in with this beautiful and unusual

clothes stand from luxury design house, Driade. The stunning and unusual sculptural piece has a matt brass finish, which can take pride of place in the living room or act as the ultimate in stylish storage in the hallway. A perfect example of modern design meeting art. Acate Clothes Stand, Driade, ÂŁ893, leighharmer.co.uk

the Wish list. For her

WHAT EVERY WOMAN WANTS THIS CHRISTMAS. W’S PICK OF THE MOST LUXURIOUS AND GLAMOROUS GIFTS TO SPOIL YOUR LOVED ONE.

Faux Fur Phonic

Animal print is set to continue to be a big trend for 2012, so these faux fur earmuffs with built-in headphones are sure to be a huge hit, keeping you warm, stylish and tuned in. Therapy Animal Fur Earmuffs with Earphones, £22, houseoffraser.co.uk

Tickled

PINK

Drape yourself in the ultimate feminine scarf from Missoni. Missoni Pink & Grey Long Lurex Fringed Scarf, £98, my-wardrobe.com

KEEP IT CLASSIC

Let your accessories make a statement, with a classically stylish wallet from Marc Jacobs. Marc by Marc Jacobs Classic Q Metal Long Trifold Wallet, £195, selfridges.com

Fashion Meets Function Famous fashion house Pierre Cardin has designed the UK’s first designer tablet PC for women on the go. Pierre Cardin Tablet PC, £275, pierrecardintabletpc.co.uk

Me time

With the parties, family tribulations and last minute panics, we all require a little pampering after this busy season, so make sure this gift set is firmly on your list. Temple Spa Romance Ritual, £38, templespa.com

Dancing Shoes If ever there was a pair of shoes made for the dance floor then this show-stopping, ultra glamorous pair from Cruise certainly meets the mark. Nicholas Kirkwood Dazzle Shoes, £595, cruisefashion.co.uk

A Life of Luxury Diamonds may be a girl’s best friend, but champagne comes a close second! Laurent Perrier Rose Champagne Gift Box from £45, available throughout the UK

For him

FROM GADGET ADDICTS TO FASHION JUNKIES, WE’VE COMPILED AN EXCLUSIVE LIST OF GIFTS THAT EVERY MODERN MAN COULD WISH TO FIND UNDER THE TREE THIS YEAR.

TIMELESS

Never be late again with this attractive wrist accessory from cult brand Toywatch. Black Mesh Mesh Toywatch, £164.99, julesb.co.uk

Wardrobe Wonder We all need a versatile coat for any occasion, and Peter Hahn has provided the perfect winter wardrobe solution with this herringbone tweed coat that’s as suitable for winter walks as it is for the office. Peter Hahn Sports Coat, £275, peterhahn.co.uk

The Midas Touch The perfect hot beverage is yours with Delonghi’s state of the art touch display coffee maker. Delonghi Perfecta ESAM5600, £999.99, delonghi.co.uk

The Perfect Hangover Cure Once again the hapless foursome try to piece together the night’s events, leading them into ever outrageous and hilarious situations The Hangover Part II, £9.97, amazon.co.uk

PURE JOY

This elegant, retro DAB and FM portable radio supports iPods and mp3 player input, and the striking two-tone leather effect completes the look perfectly. Pure Evoke Mio DAB and FM Portable Radio, £130, qvcuk.com

For us

Culture Creature Get the travel bug with this chic guide to the capital of Italy, and plan your next trip to the city of sublime food, rich history and the Vatican. Louis Vuitton City Guide 2012 Rome, £22, louisvuitton.com

Fearless Fashion Join the fashion crowd with this more conservative option from TOMS, in a versatile chocolate colour. TOMS Brown Waxed Twill Cordones, £50, tomsshoes.co.uk

W Winter 2011-12

Wish list. MINI FEET

For them

Dressing up can be fun for both children and adults alike, and every girl will feel like a little princess in these Vivienne Westwood shoes. Mini Melissa by Vivienne Westwood Shoes, £24, spoiledbrat.co.uk

WHETHER YOUR CHILDREN HAVE BEEN NAUGHTY OR NICE THIS YEAR, THESE GIFTS ARE SURE TO BE AT THE TOP OF EVERY LITTLE ONE’S CHRISTMAS LIST.

Young Scientist PUT A SPELL ON YOU

Children can have endless hours of fun learning how to turn this solar powered toy into a windmill, airboat or even a puppy. 6-in-1 Solar Toy, £14.95, ethicalsuperstore.com

The film franchise may be over, but it is not the last we will see of Harry, as he once again takes on death eaters and the most formidable opponent of all; Lord Voldermort. Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 (available on Xbox 360, PS3, Wii, DS and PC/Mac), £29.99, available throughout the UK

LOVES

Baby’s

Fir st C

Top of the List

Sure to be found under many Christmas trees this year, the Mini Micro Scooter is one of this year’s most wanted toys. Mini Micro T-Bar Scooter, £54.95, johnlewis.com

s tm a s i r

Give the gift of a good night’s sleep as you lull your baby into a silent slumber with this premium mobile. Made With Love Mobile Premium, £28, mamasandpapas.com The traditional gifts are always the most cherished, and this beautiful rocking horse is sure to be no different. Chester Rocking Horse, £175, mamasandpapas.com

Whizz Kid

VTech’s developmental camera means kids as young as three can now caputre and film their fun and mischief wherever they go. VTech Kidizoom Twist Kids Camera, £35, available throughout the UK

BEVERLEY

KNIGHT her bares

SOUL

AS THE UK’S ORIGINAL SOUL SISTER GETS READY FOR ANOTHER NATIONAL TOUR AND NEW CHALLENGES, IS SHE READY FOR WHAT THE FUTURE MAY BRING? BEVERLEY KNIGHT TALKS TO JENNIFER TATE ABOUT HER ILLUSTRIOUS CAREER, PERFORMING WITH HER IDOL AND HER PLANS TO BREAK AMERICA.

Music is my passion. My obsession. My love.

S I WAIT TO SPEAK TO OUR COVER STAR, THE rain lashing against the windows at Jesmond Dene House, my coffee sitting warm on my lap, I take time to read over my notes charting the astoundingly successful career of this hard-working artist that spans almost two decades. At 38, Beverley Knight has just released her seventh studio album, ‘Soul UK’ under her own label Hurricane Records, collaborating with Grammy Award winning producers, Martin Terefe and Future Cut, who have worked with acts including Beyoncé, Lily Allen and Jason Morales. THE WOLVERHAMPTON BORN SOUL SINGER, HAS A COLLECTION of top 20 hits with some of her best known singles including ‘Greatest Day’, ‘Get Up!’, ‘Shoulda Woulda Coulda’ and ‘Come As You Are’. She has four gold selling albums - with over one million albums sold to date - and has been the UK’s most consistently successful soul artist since she first burst onto the music scene in 1995. And her success was cemented in 2007 when she collected an MBE for services to music and charity. Now, as she gets ready to hit the road again for her solo tour across the country, including a stop at The Sage in Gateshead, I’m intrigued to learn more about her past and how that led her down the road to the dizzying heights she has reached. Born into a musical and deeply religious family, Beverley was exposed to music through her local congregation and was hooked immediately. “Music was in my blood and surroundings, and I’ve been clamouring to sing since I don’t know when. Becoming a singer was an inevitability.”

At the age of 19 while performing on stage at a local nightclub she was spotted by a record company executive and offered what she had always dreamt of; a recording contract. But despite this, she decided her education should come first and so she put her dreams of singing on hold in order to study Religious Theology and Philosophy at Cheltenham & Gloucester College of Higher Education. Yet it seems that music and Beverley are intertwined by fate, as in 1994, somewhat inevitably it seems, she signed a record deal with Dome Records and released her debut album, ‘The B Funk’ The album came out to critical acclaim, heralded as ‘the best British soul album ever’. Further accolades followed closely behind with ‘Voice’ her greatest hits compilation going platinum in 2006. So, it was only a matter of time until she was compared to other all-time greats and bestowed with the prestigious, if not daunting title, ‘Queen of UK Soul’. “To be given this title makes me feel very uncomfortable, because, at the end of the day I’m just doing what I love. But I do take it in the spirit it was given and if nothing else it tells me that people like what I’m doing and want to hear more, so I’ll keep giving them more.” HER ‘QUEEN OF UK SOUL’ TITLE WAS REAFFIRMED IN 2007 WHEN she was invited to join her idol and music icon, Prince, during his O2 summer shows, as well as performing with him at his after-show jams. Beverley’s performance even features on a live CD recording of the tour released by Prince and it’s clear that this is a defining moment for the soul diva. The following year she was flown to LA to perform with him again at his post-Oscars party where Stevie Wonder joined them on stage. “Prince is one of my all time favourite artists and I can’t really find the right words to describe how it felt. It was without doubt the greatest moment of my life.”

Word.

Audiences in the North East are always the loudest and really don’t hold back. It genuinely is one of the best parts of my tour... Speaking to Beverley you get a sense that although music is in her soul, it’s also directly linked to her wellbeing. Her enthusiasm is both infectious and uplifting and it’s easy to see why she continues to inspire through her music, writing and appearances on TV shows such as ‘It Takes Two’. And though her passion has obviously been the driving force behind her achievements, it’s not something she takes for granted, as she speaks candidly of realising that simply wanting something isn’t always enough. “At the very least you must have a love of what you do. But the real secret to success is hard work, as well as an element of luck. It‘s not just about being musical, you also need a business brain with business acumen, backed up by confidence in your own abilities so that you can make the right decisions for you.” It was this ‘business brain’ that led Beverley to start her own record label, Hurricane Records in 2009. Through Hurricane Records she released her sixth studio album and she says “Being independent has given me complete freedom over my music. However, with great power comes great responsibility and I am always conscious that I don’t believe my own hype – you can’t let the creativity completely overshadow the commercial. I always have to be mindful of what I’m producing and what the public expects from me.” And it’s her unwavering respect for her fans that led Beverley to create her seventh album, ‘Soul UK’, which enabled the public to hear her put her own spin on the tracks that inspired her, including those by Jamiroquai and Soul II Soul. HAVING FOUND GLOBAL FAME, PERFORMING AROUND THE WORLD how does the North East measure up? “If you’re looking for one word: rowdy. Audiences in the North East are always the loudest and really don’t hold back. You can feel their appreciation immediately and they sing along throughout my shows. It genuinely is one of the best parts of my tour and I love it” says Beverley. “I’ve watched the area change and evolve over the years and I like what I see. I know Newcastle in particular like the back of my hand.” While music may be her true passion, she also dedicates a large amount of her time to charity endeavours in her role as ambassador for Christian Aid, Stop AIDS and the Terrence Higgins Trust. “Charity work is very important to me. I have just returned from four weeks in Malawi, where the country has been torn apart by AIDS and HIV. It’s a wonderful place full of wonderful people who are fighting their way through it, thanks to music and theatre. The money is going where it’s most needed and that’s what truly matters.” With almost twenty years in this notoriously demanding industry under her belt, Beverley shows no signs of slowing down as she discusses her planned forthcoming album and what lies beyond. “The future is exciting and will of course include more music, as I plan on making another album once my tour is wrapped up. More duets would be great, but maybe with a fresh act like Emeli Sandé, as she has so much going for her. New albums aside, I’d be interested in lending my vocals to a dubstep track, so it would be amazing to get a call from an artist like Nero. It’s such an interesting sound and would surprise everyone. Beyond that I would love to break into America,

Beverley has just completed her sell-out 11 date ‘Soul UK’ tour which included a performance at the Sage in Gateshead. In the New Year she plans to get back into the recording studio to work on new material as well as continuing her role as ambassador for charities including Christian Aid, Stop AIDS and the Terrence Higgins Trust.

and perform to a new audience. America is the founding father of soul, the leading light, and to share my sound there would be an honour.” Having spent time with Beverley, I have a feeling she’ll be across the pond in no time at all. BEVERLEY PUTS HER SUCCESS AND LONGEVITY DOWN TO HER deep passion for what she does, “I could sit and bore you about music all day, and I’ve got to where I am today thanks to my love of music and the motivation to succeed. Music is my passion. My obsession. My love. No matter what happens in my life, I will always have this.” With three MOBOs, two Black Music Awards and an Urban Music Lifetime Achievement Award, Beverley has certainly achieved what she set out to do thanks to her drive, overwhelming enthusiasm for the industry and bucket loads of talent. She has no intention of stopping now either and I for one am looking forward to hearing what’s around the corner. W Winter 2011-12

One season. One party. Two distinct moods. Play up both sides of your personality in a tailored tux and slick suit or shimmering hourglass silhouettes and LBDs. Models: Charlotte Lockwood and Stephanie Robinson Jones. Hair: Michael Young, Hooker & Young. Make-up: nd Make-up artists. Photographed at Jesmond Dene House Hotel.

W Winter 2011-12

BELOW: ELLE SILVER SEQUIN MAXI DRESS, £532, Project D, Supplier: Van Mildert

ABOVE: WHITE CLASSIC LACE DETAIL BREAST LOGO SHIRT, £115.99, Armani, Supplier: Psyche; BLACK TAILORED SAGAS JACKET, £221, By Malene Birger, Supplier: Have to Love; BLACK PANELLED CHRYSLENE LEGGINGS, £91, By Malene Birger, Supplier: Have to Love; BLACK SUEDE LORISSA STUD SHOES, £184.99, Sam Edelman, Supplier: Jules B

catWalk.

ABOVE: SATIN PANEL FITTED BLACK JACKET, £485, Just Cavalli, Supplier: Cruise; LEATHER JERSEY PANEL BLACK LEGGINGS, £395, Joseph, Supplier: Cruise; LEATHER RENZO STUDDED SHOE BOOTS, £214, Sam Edelman, Supplier: Jules B ABOVE & LEFT: SEQUIN BOW DETAIL BLACK DRESS, £505, Valentino Red, Supplier: Cruise; STUDDED PEEP TOE SHOES, £179.95, Sam Edelman, Supplier: Jules B; BELOW: BLACK NUNIGA EVENING MAXI DRESS, £275, By Malene Birger, Supplier: Have to Love

W Winter 2011-12

We’ve reviewed the latest literary offerings and handpicked the best of the bunch to line your bookshelves... BOOKS The Rivered Earth by Vikram Seth (Penguin £14.99)

The latest offering from the best writer of his generation, draws on a range of personal experience and literary influences, and mixes translation with original creation. The Rivered Earth consists of four libretti written to accompany music by British composer Alec Roth. The libretti take us all over the world - from Chinese and Indian poetry to the beauty and quietness of the Salisbury house where English poet George Herbert lived and died.

Out of It by Selma Debbagh (Bloomsbury £12.99)

Gaza is being bombed. Out of It follows the lives of Rashid and Iman as they forge places for themselves in the midst of occupation, the growing divide between Palestinian factions and the rise of fundamentalism. Written with extraordinary humanity and humour and moving between Gaza, London and the Gulf, this books help to redefine Palestine and its people.

Chanel: An Intimate Life by Lisa Chaney (Fig Tree £25)

Unearthing one of the most astonishing lives of the last century, this remarkable biography shows how, more than any previous designer, Chanel became synonymous with a rebellious and progressive style. Drawing on newly discovered love-letters and other sources, Lisa Chaney’s explosive book reveals Chanel’s drug habit and lesbian affairs. While painting a deeper and darker picture of Coco Chanel than any so far it also movingly explores the origins, creative power and the secret suffering of this exceptional and misunderstood woman.

Milligan’s Meaning of Life by Spike Milligan and edited by Norma Farnes (Penguin £20)

Few people can claim to have changed the course of history. Spike Milligan simply rewrote it. With his lightning-quick wit, unbridled creativity and his ear for the absurd, Milligan revolutionised British comedy by turning everything he encountered on its head. From his childhood in India, ‘where every day was like a Kipling story’, through his early career as a jazz musician and sketch-show entertainer, his spells in North Africa and Italy with the Royal Artillery, to that fateful first broadcast of The Goon Show and beyond into the annals of comedy history, this is the autobiography Milligan never wrote. 20

The Doll Princess by Tom Benn (Vintage £12.99)

It’s Manchester, July 1996, the month after the IRA bomb, and the Evening News is carrying reports of two murders. For Bane – fixer, loanshark and legman for one of Manchester’s established ganglords – it’s the second piece of news that hits hardest. Determined to find out what happened to his childhood sweetheart, he searches through the tribes and estates of his bombed city for answers. It soon becomes clear that the two newspaper stories belong on the same page, and that Bane’s world belongs to others – those willing to profit from gun arsenals, human trafficking and a Manchester in decay. The Doll Princess introduces the mesmeric narrator, Henry Bane, a convicted man caught up in a mire of evil, and his creator, Tom Benn, an assured and exhilarating new voice in literary crime fiction.

Why be Happy When You Could Be Normal? by Jeannette Winterson (Jonathan Cape £12.99)

When Jeanette left her home, at sixteen, because she was in love with a woman, Mrs Winterson asked her “Why be happy when you could be normal?” This book is the story of a life’s work to find happiness. It’s a book full of stories: about a girl locked out of her home, sitting on the doorstep all night; about a tyrant in place of a mother, who has two sets of false teeth and a revolver in the duster drawer, waiting for Armageddon; about growing up in a northern industrial town now changed beyond recognition, part of a community now vanished; about the Universe as a Cosmic Dustbin. It’s the story of how the painful past Jeanette Winterson thought she had written over and repainted returned to haunt her later life, and sent her on a journey into madness and out again, in search of her real mother.

If you read only one thing... THE KITE RUNNER by Khaled Hosseini (Bloomsbury £12.99) 1970s Afghanistan. 12 year old Amir is desperate to win the local kite fighting tournament and his loyal friend Hassan promises to help him. But neither of the boys can foresee what will happen to Hassan that afternoon. An event that will shatter their lives. Since its publication in 2003, The Kite Runner has sold over eight million copies worldwide and through Hosseini’s brilliant writing, a previously unknown part of the world was brought to life. Now this beautifully illustrated adaptation is sure to captivate a new generation of readers.

What’s hot. TV The X Factor Final

On screens December, ITV It’s the reality TV event of the year and the 2011 final is shaping up to be the most exciting yet. The new generation panel comprising Gary Barlow, Kelly Rowland, Tulisa Contostavlos and Louis Walsh have whittled their acts down to the final few and it’s now up to us to crown the winner. And, if you’ve been hooked by the talent on the other side of the pond then the X Factor USA final looks set to raise the bar.

Absolutely Fabulous

On screens Christmas, BBC One Robert Downey Jnr and Jude Law return in Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows.

Both the small and silver screens have plenty to keep you entertained through the wild winter months...

To celebrate its 20th Anniversary, Ab Fab is returning to our screens once again for three specials, the first for Christmas. Jennifer Saunders and Joanna Lumley are reprising their roles as champagne swilling best friends Patsy and Eddy. This classic series doesn’t disappoint as the women move on to the next stage of their lives, while of course remaining just as Absolutely Fabulous.

FILM NEW YEAR’S EVE In Cinemas 9 December A cast doesn’t get any better than this: Ashton Kutcher, Robert De Niro, Sarah Jessica Parker and Lea Michele to name but a few. As New Year celebrations get underway, the lives of several couples and singles entwine and overlap.

SHERLOCK HOLMES: A GAME OF SHADOWS In Cinemas 16 December Sherlock Holmes (Robert Downey Jr.) and his sidekick Dr. Watson (Jude Law) take on their biggest challenge yet as they bring down Professor Moriarty (Jared Harris) in the sequel to Guy Ritchie’s blockbuster (pictured top).

GIRL WITH A DRAGON TATTOO In Cinemas 26 December The novel that took the world by storm is adapted for the silver screen. Renowned journalist Mikael Blomkvist (Daniel Craig) enlists the help of rebel outsider Lisbeth Salander (Rooney Mara) to find a woman missing for 40 years.

Great Expectations

On screens Christmas, BBC One

LOVES

It simply wouldn’t be Christmas without an adaptation of a classic novel, and this year no expense has been spared on Sarah Phelps’ Great Expectations. Starring Ray Winstone, we follow a young boy’s story of obsession, dark deeds, forgiveness and what one is willing to do for love.

Treasure Island

On screens December, Sky One

If you watch only one thing... THE IRON LADY In Cinemas 6 January Meryl Streep takes on the challenging role of former Prime Minister, Margaret Thatcher, showing the price she paid to secure the power she craved. Narrated through a series of flashbacks, the biopic is a veritable who’s who of the British acting elite, with Jim Broadbent, Anthony Head and Richard E Grant among those who take starring roles alongside Streep. The Iron Lady is British director Phyllida Lloyd’s first major feature film following 2008’s worldwide smash hit, Mamma Mia! The Movie.

Emmy® Award winner and homegrown talent, Eddie Izzard, takes on Long John Silver in this modern take on the well-known swashbuckling, treasure-hunting tale. An all-star cast including Elijah Wood, Philip Glenister and Donald Sutherland also join the twopart drama.

British Comedy Awards

On screens December, Channel 4 Comedy’s elite have only one wish this Christmas, to take home a British Comedy Award. Presented live by Jonathan Ross, the show is always a crowd-pleaser. 2010 winners included Harry Hill, Michael McIntyre and the new, official Queen of Comedy, Miranda Hart. W Winter 2011-12

Make it your resolution to tune in to this season’s hottest sounds and catch the coolest gigs in town.

GREAT GIGS KASABIAN Thursday 8 December Metro Radio Arena

If you listen to only one thing... GORILLAZ The Singles Collection, 2001-2011 The award-winning virtual band created by Damon Albarn and Jamie Hewlitt in 1997 releases its much anticipated greatest hits collection, featuring 15 of its most well-know tracks from the past decade. From Clint Eastwood and DARE to Feel Good Inc. and Dirty Harry, the album takes us on a refreshing, upbeat trip down memory lane, reminding us just how good the band is. Released 28 November.

ALOE BLACC Thursday 8 December 02 Academy, Newcastle THE SATURDAYS Saturday 10 December Metro Radio Arena DURAN DURAN Saturday 17 December Metro Radio Arena

REBECCA FERGUSON: Heaven The X Factor 2010 runner-up releases her first studio album Heaven almost a year after she wowed audiences nationwide, narrowly losing out to winner Matt Cardle. The album, which Ferguson has been co-writing during 2011, launches with her debut single, Nothing’s Real But Love and features 10 new tracks. Released 5 December.

WESTLIFE: Greatest Hits After confirming they are to split after 14 years, 14 number ones and over 44 million album sales worldwide, Shane, Nicky, Mark and Kian release their Greatest Hits collection and will bow out next year after a massive arena tour. The 17 tracks include Swear It Again, Flying Without Wings and You Raise Me Up. Out now.

R.E.M: Part Lies, Part Heart, Part Truth, Part Garbage 1982-2011 The legendary American rockers have been entertaining audiences for the past 30 years but, after announcing its split earlier this year, the band signs off with a collection of 40 greatest hits. The two-disc retrospective includes memorable tracks including The One I Love, Losing My Religion and Everybody Hurts. Out now.

KATHERINE JENKINS Monday 16 January Newcastle City Hall

SNOW PATROL: Fallen Empires

STING BACK TO BASS Sunday 5 February The Sage Gateshead

The sixth studio album from the indie five-piece comes on the back of the top 20 single Called Out In The Dark. The album marks a change of direction for the Mercury Music Prize winning band, showcasing techno music and strong melodies across 14 tracks, which the band say will surprise some fans. Out now.

MICHAEL BUBLÉ: Christmas Everyone’s favourite Canadian, Michael Bublé, releases his festive offering, a collection of covers from Santa Claus Is Coming To Town to Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas. Light the fire, pour a glass of mulled wine, sit back and let Mr. Bublé transport you to an idyllic winter wonderland. Heaven! Out now.

CHRISTMAS WITH THE RAT PACK 2011 Wednesday 21 December The Sage Gateshead

What’s hot.

Come rain, sleet or snow, the show must go on! We’ve rounded up the best exhibitions, plays and events across the region for you to

enjoy.

LEGALLY BLONDE: THE MUSICAL (Framed above)

THEATRE & ART

6 – 31 December, Sunderland Empire

CINDERELLA 3 December 2011 – 15 January 2012, Darlington Civic Theatre He’s behind you! It wouldn’t be Christmas without a trip to the Pantomime and this year the whole family can enjoy Cinderella at the local theatre. Former X Factor runner-up and Dancing On Ice winner Ray Quinn, Emmerdale’s Deena Payne and comic Jimmy Cricket recreate this timeless fairy tale. Tickets prices start at £13.50. For more information or to book tickets visit darlington.gov.uk

Singing, dancing and lots of pink! Originally a popular film, the award winning musical adaptation follows ditzy Elle Woods as she tries to master her way through Harvard Law School and win back her boyfriend. Will she discover that brains always beat beauty? Starring Matthew Kelly and Liz McClarnon. Ticket prices start at £21.50. For more information or to book tickets visit sunderlandempire.org.uk

LORD OF THE DANCE 13 January, The Sage Gateshead

If you go to only one thing...

Created by Michael Flatley, Lord of the Dance, has been performed to over 7 million people and now returns to the North East for the New Year. With more than 150,000 taps per performance, the Irish dance extravaganza leaves the audience amazed with its intricate and breathtaking footwork. Ticket prices start at £30.50. For more information or to book tickets visit thesagegateshead.org

AN EVENING WITH COLIN FRY IN AID OF JOSIE’S DRAGONFLY TRUST 3 December, Newcastle City Hall The ‘People’s Medium’, Colin Fry, is one of the most respected psychics in the business. For his 2011 tour he displays his unique and compassionate gift of communicating with spirits in one intriguing evening. Ticket prices start at £20.35 LOVES

CHRISTMAS WITH THE PUPPINI SISTERS

BETWEEN DIMENSIONS: THE REPRESENTATION OF THE OBJECT

8 December, The Sage Gateshead

25 November 2011 – 24 February 2012, mima, Middlesbrough

Lose yourself in the 1940s with the wonderful Puppini Sisters. The mesmerising trio captures the true spirit of Christmas, with updated swing versions of classic hits and swing classics, as well as festive favourites and original songs. Sing along, tap your feet and watch in wonder at the spectacular stage production. Ticket prices start at £14.50. For more information or to book tickets visit thesagegateshead.org

Questioning the traditional perception of still life, the exhibition looks at space between the second and third dimensions, combining wall works from both the Tate and mima collection. The exhibition includes work by Pablo Picasso, Ben Nicholson and Roy Lichtenstein. Admission is free. For more information visit visitmima.com W Winter 2011-12

FASHION

Woodland fairies enchant in winterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most magical knitwear. Model: Stephanie Robinson Jones. Hair: Michael Young, Hooker & Young. Make-up: nd Make-up artists.

catWalk.

GREY BLANKET WRAP JACKET £487, MW by Matthew Williamson Supplier: Van Mildert PATRICE BLACK FLAT RIDING BOOT £268, Sam Edelman Supplier: Van Mildert

W Winter 2011-12

BLACK CHUNKY CABLE HOODED KNIT £298.99, Barbour Gold Label by Temperley Supplier: Psyche PATRICE BLACK FLAT RIDING BOOT £268, Sam Edelman Supplier: Van Mildert

catWalk.

CREAM LAMBSWOOL JUMPER DRESS £208.99, Paul by Paul Smith Supplier: Psyche BLACK LEATHER DYANIA BOOTS £395, By Malene Birger Supplier: Have to Love

W Winter 2011-12

BEIGE CHUNKY OVERSIZED KNIT CARDIGAN £158.99, Hugo Boss Orange Supplier: Psyche

sponsored shoWcase.

KIDS 1ST NURSERIES: Helping your children to lead a healthy lifestyle... Kids 1st is proudly committed to promoting a healthy lifestyle in a bid to help all of the children who attend its nurseries on their way to a long and healthy life. All of the food served in the nurseries is freshly prepared each day by a team of chefs using quality, locally sourced ingredients and there is a policy of no added salt and minimal sugar. In each edition of W Lifestyle | Living |Business, Kids 1st will share with you one of its healthy recipes and provide tips on cooking with children or helping them to live a healthy lifestyle.

HELPFUL TIPS: COOKING FOR YOUR CHILDREN • BE CREATIVE with your fruit and vegetables to help toward your child’s five a day intake. You can hide grated vegetables in sauces or incorporate fruit into cookies. • PRAISE YOUR CHILD for eating new foods and remember, it can take children up to 20 times of trying something new before they get used to it. Kids 1st Nurseries are located at Wynyard Park, Darlington, Durham, Gosforth, Quorum, Hexham, Rake Lane and Wansbeck. For more information call 0191 461 887 or visit kidsfirst.net.

Recipe: Chicken Risotto 250g chicken strips Half an onion finely chopped t corn 200g frozen peas and swee 300g risotto rice Small knob of butter 4tblsp olive oil 1 bay leaf ) 1.2ltr chicken stock (1 cube 1 garlic clove finely chopped RIGHT! LET’S COOK... Heat the oil in large heavy based pan, add the finely chopped onions and fry on a low heat. Turn up the heat a little then add the chicken until sealed without colouring. Add the garlic and fry for approximately 2 minutes. Add the butter before adding the rice and cook for approximately 3-5 minutes until it is absorbed but still has a runny consistency. Add the stock in 4 intervals, with enough to cover the rice each time, and continue to stir until liquid has reduced. Add the peas and sweet corn after the third addition of stock and continue to stir. Add the final stock and stir until absorbed but still runny in consistency. Serves: family of four Cooking time: 60 minutes

Looking for somewhere new to meet up with friends or colleagues? Then why not come and enjoy a freshly-brewed coffee in Java? Java is the luxury café and bistro situated in the light and airy atrium of Wynyard Park House. It’s the perfect place to catch up with friends once you’ve dropped the children at school and indulge in some down-time with a coffee and something delicious from the patisserie. Or, maybe you want to meet for lunch? Well, with a menu of hot and cold meals that changes daily to reflect local market produce, you’ll be spoilt for choice. There’s also free Wi-Fi so you can email or log onto your Facebook or Twitter accounts while you relax. Java is open Monday to Friday from 8am – 4pm in Wynyard Park House at Wynyard Park. For more information visit wynyardrooms.com.

*Terms & conditions: Only one hot beverage can be redeemed per voucher. Offer cannot be exchanged for any other item. Offer valid from 1 December to 14 February 2012.

GIVEAW

Present this voucher when ordering to receive a complimentary hot beverage of your choice*

THE PERFECT

Winter Supper THIS THREE COURSE MENU FOR FOUR IS IDEAL FOR DINNER PARTIES, AS IT’S IMPRESSIVE WHILE MANAGEABLE AND USES SOME OF THE SEASON’S BEST PRODUCE.

Local High Farm Faceby Lamb Loin, Pressed Gratin of Lamb Shoulder and King Edward Potatoes with Scottish Girolles, Butternut Squash Purée and Baby Leeks. Ingredients Half a pumpkin cut into 4 750g approx. lamb shoulder joint 300ml good red wine 1 litre chicken stock 1 bulb of garlic 1 leek 3 sticks of celery 1 carrot Sprig of thyme & rosemary 15 King Edward potatoes 1 whole rack of lamb (cut into 4 pieces) 1 butternut squash (halved lengthways) 50g butter 100g Scottish girolles (or wild mushrooms) 8 baby leeks 12 king scallops 4 slices of Parma ham (grilled) 40

Method For the Potato Gratin: Brown the lamb shoulder in a frying pan and then add to a casserole pot. Deglaze the pan with the red wine before also adding to the pot. Add the chicken stock, garlic and roughly chopped vegetables along with a sprig of thyme and rosemary. Cook at 170°C for 3-4 hours until the meat falls apart. Carefully take out the lamb and set aside. Drain the liquor from the vegetables and add to a saucepan. Boil the liquor until it has reduced to around 300ml. Meanwhile, shred the lamb by picking it apart, separating any bits of fat. Peel the potatoes and slice as thinly as possible. Layer the potatoes in a deep baking tray, lined with parchment paper, and then add a layer of lamb. Repeat this twice more, seasoning each layer as you go, finishing

with a potato layer. Pour over the reduced liquor, cover with foil and bake for 50 minutes at 180°C. For the Butternut Squash Purée: Bake the Squash at 180°C for 30 minutes or until soft. Scoop out the flesh, discarding the seeds. Blitz in a blender adding 50g of butter and salt to taste. To Serve: Season the lamb loin and sear all sides before placing in the oven for 10 minutes at 200°C, then take out and rest for 5 minutes. Gently sauté the mushrooms and leeks in a pan with a little butter, olive oil and seasoning. Assemble the dish and serve with the red wine reduction from the pot.

Wine & dine.

Pan-Seared Shetland King Scallops, Pumpkin & Pistachio Risotto with Crispy Parma Ham and Candied Pistachios. Ingredients Half a pumpkin cut into 4 2 shallots (finely chopped) 4 cloves of garlic (finely chopped) 200g Arborio or Carnaroli risotto rice 800ml vegetable/chicken stock 80g parmesan 80g butter Handful of crushed pistachios 1tsp sage (finely chopped) 1tsp parsley (finely chopped) 12 king scallops 4 slices of Parma ham (grilled)

Method Roast the pumpkin in the oven at 180°C for 40 minutes or until soft. Remove the seeds and scoop out the flesh. Heat the oil in a saucepan, adding the shallots and garlic, stir and cook over a moderate heat for 1 minute. Add rice and stir for 1 minute. Add the stock and continue to cook over moderate heat for a further 15 minutes stirring constantly. Then add the pumpkin, butter, parmesan, herbs and crushed pistachios. Season generously to taste. Let the risotto sit for 5 minutes before serving. Meanwhile, season your scallops before adding one by one clockwise to a hot frying pan with oil. The scallops should sizzle when they hit the pan. After 1 minute turn the scallops over (in the clockwise order) and fry for another further minute. Turn the heat down, baste the scallops with a little butter and take out of the pan. Serve immediately.

Yorkshire Granny Smith & Almond Frangipane Tart, Pressed Braeburn Apple Terrine with Peanut Butter Ice Cream. Pastry Case

100g/4oz sugar 200g/7oz unsalted butter (at room temperature) 1 egg 1 egg yolk 1 tsp vanilla extract 1 tsp fresh lemon juice (and grated zest) 300g/10½oz plain flour

Recipes:

Matthew R oath Chef, Chadw , Head ic Inn Maltby k’s chadw icksinnmalt

01642 5903

by.co.uk

Method - Cream the butter and sugar in a mixing bowl with a wooden spoon until pale and

creamy. Add the egg, egg yolk, vanilla extract, lemon juice and grated zest one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Add the flour and salt and mix until the dough comes together and is consistent, but still soft. Set aside in the fridge to chill for at least 2 hours. Roll the pastry case out and line a 23cm-25cm tart case. Blind bake for 15-20 minutes at 160°C.

Frangipane

200g butter (chopped) 200g caster sugar 200g ground almonds 4 eggs 100g plain flour 5 Granny Smith apples (cut into slices) Butter & sugar (to caramelise apples)

Method - Mix the butter, sugar and almonds in a food processor until pale and creamy. Add

one egg at a time along with 25g of flour. Repeat this process until all the eggs and flour have been incorporated. In a pan caramelise the apple slices with butter and sugar before arranging in the pastry case. Cover with the frangipane mixture and bake at 170°C for 40 minutes.

Apple Terrine

10 Braeburn apples (cut into quarters) Butter & sugar (to caramelise apples) 300ml apple juice 3 gelatine leaves (softened)

Method - Caramelise the apples before adding the apple juice and then reduce the liquid for

5 minutes. Strain and add 3 softened gelatine leaves to the liquid. Assemble the apples in a lined terrine mould with clingfilm and add the apple liquor. Set in the fridge overnight. W Winter 2011-12

Wine dine. A taste of Christmas... EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY! CHRISTMAS WOULDN’T BE THE SAME WITHOUT AN EMPTY PLATE AND FULL GLASS, SO WE’VE PICKED THE SEASON’S BEST FOOD AND DRINK TO HELP YOU CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS IN STYLE THIS YEAR.

After Dinner Delights. This luxury

chocolate selection from local patisserie, Robineau, includes luscious ganache made with fruit purees, organic teas, fresh mint and Arabica coffee, crispy pralines and much more. Luxury Chocolate Selection, Robineau, £29.95 from the store or robineau.co.uk

Christmas in a Cup. One of a number of limited edition festive flavours, Cherizena Coffee offers a superb blend of rum, hazelnut, cinnamon, vanilla, orange and pecan nut aromas. Cherizena Christmas Coffee, £3 for 125g, cherizena.co.uk

It’s a Wonderful Wine. With its

spiced fruity aroma, mulled wine is as much of a festive staple as the roast turkey. Mulled Wine, £5.99, available at Waitrose

A Fairy Tale Ending. This fun-filled

gingerbread house kit has walls and decorations good enough to eat and there’s not a hungry witch in sight. Traditional Gingerbread House Kit, £11.99, lakeland.co.uk

Fancy a Bit on the Side? Mixing up

the traditional Christmas dinner, Jamie Oliver has pepped up our condiment options with his Red Onion Pickle, Fig Jam and Hot Pepper Jelly. A Little Bit on the Side, £10, available at most UK supermarkets and jamieoliver.com

Got the Blues?

Taste of Yorkshire.

With culinary delicacies from across the Yorkshire Dales, local retailer Hunters of Helmsley can deliver a delectable offering of cheeses, nibbles, biscuits and much more. Deliciously Yorkshire Hamper, £75, huntersofhelmsley.com 42

The Blagdon Blue is a subtle soft and creamy cheese - the perfect accompaniment to a fruity bottle of red, a roaring fire and a good book. Blagdon Blue, Northumberland Cheese, £5.95 for a 225g whole cheese, northumberlandcheese.co.uk

Easy Does It.

Delicious, wholesome and now Fair Trade, one-pot meals from Easy Bean make the New Year diet fun and simple. Easy Bean One Pot Meals, prices start at £2.95, for stockist details visit easybean.co.uk

NEW YEAR

new me...

AFTER INDULGING OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON, GETTING FIT AND HEALTHY IS AT THE TOP OF EVERYONE’S NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTION LIST. AND, WITH THESE DETOXING, HEALTH INDUCING PRODUCTS, YOU’RE ALREADY HALFWAY THERE!

Vice Free Vanilla.

Ditch the coffee in 2012 and instead opt for a caffeine-free alternative that includes warming herbs and sweet vanilla flavours. Pukka Vanilla Chai, £2.25, pukkaherbs.com

Comfort Food.

Cold nights and bowls full of hearty soup are what winter is made of. Using simple ingredients to ensure maximum flavour and that nutrients are retained, these ready-made soups are a no-brainer. Rod and Ben’s Winter Season Soups, £2.99, rodandbens.com

Looking for inspiration?

Go Grazing. Handpick your own snack box, with over 100 healthy and nutritious choices delivered straight to your office each week to keep cravings at bay. Graze boxes, £3.49 per box, graze.com

Savoury Saviours. These

wheat and dairy free organic oatcakes make for the perfect snack. Light yet satisfying, they are great on their own or with your favourite topping. Village Bakery Organic Oatcakes, £1.99, ethicalsuperstore.com

Frozen Fancy. As

GUILT-FREE COOKING Being good doesn’t have to be boring, as this no.1 bestselling recipe book by the creator of the ‘world’s healthiest meals’ shows. Who knew curry could be so guilt-free? Indian Superfood, £9.09, available at amazon.co.uk

seen on the BBC’s Dragons’ Den, this luxury dessert containing natural fruit sugars is free from dairy, gluten, soya, sugar, eggs, nuts, and artificial colours and flavourings. What’s more, at only 80 calories per serving, it’s a real treat. Strawberry Frozen Dessert, Freedom, £3, available at Tesco and other leading supermarkets and health food stores

W Winter 2011-12

shops the city...

WHETHER YOU’RE LOOKING TO FINISH YOUR CHRISTMAS SHOPPING OR BAG A BARGAIN IN THE SALES, THESE RETAIL HOTSPOTS SHOULD BE TOP OF YOUR LIST.

BRUSSELS Magical Markets

Something for nothing: As the sun goes down, the real entertainment begins with the breathtaking Sound and Light show at the Grand Place UNESCO World Heritage Site.

RUSSELS REWARDS THE WANDERER. THERE’S SOMETHING INTERESTING down every winding alley or cul-de-sac, and the magnificent medieval Grand Place is as impressive as any town square in Prague, Warsaw or Siena. But, come December, the de facto capital of Europe is transformed from a mild mannered, cultural hub, into a two-mile wide Christmas fairyland, complete with a market, illuminated Big Wheel, street activities and of course, a skating rink. From the 25th November until the 1st January, the streets of this magnificent city are lined with over 240 Christmas stalls. Reminiscent of gingerbread houses, you can stock up on Christmas presents, decorations and trinkets galore, just make sure you leave enough room in your suitcase to fit it all in. Aside from the Christmas market, the city has an abundance of antique stores and flea markets in the Sablon area; Rue des Fripiers and Rue du Marché aux Herbes are both home to a number of beautiful boutiques, and, of course, there are plenty of outlets selling a multitude of Belgian beers – try Beer Mania on Chausse de Wavre for a mind-boggling and brain-fogging selection. And, no visit would be complete without visiting one or more of the city’s legendary chocolatiers. Pierre Marcolini’s on Rue des Minimes offers seasonal ‘collections’ and has free tastings upstairs. If chocolate’s not your thing then sample speculoos, spicy shortbread biscuits, at Dandoy on Rue au Beurre. With your shopping in the bag, spend an afternoon atop the Kameleon Sky Bar within the Viaje entertainment complex to get an unrivalled panoramic view of Brussels from the bar on the open terrace. Then, check into the conveniently located Le Meridien Brussels hotel, a tribute to Belgium’s rich and gloried history. Or, for a boutique hotel with a difference check into Odette en Ville. The art deco townhouse has lashings of 50s black lacquered walls and an elegant library that will leave you hankering for a highball.

Eurostar from £189 return from London St. Pancras. A three night stay in a double room at Le Meridien Brussels in December starts from £274. For more information visit starwoodhotels.com/lemeridien. 44

home & aWay.

Marvellous

MARRAKECH

ARRAKECH IS A CITY UNLIKE ANY OTHER: NOWHERE IS cosmopolitan exoticism captured more perfectly than in this colourful North African city. While not necessarily the most obvious choice for a Christmas or New Year shopping trip, Marrakech’s old town is bustling with shoppers all year long. Barter for treasures in the labyrinthine and kaleidoscopic souks, soak up the sights, sounds and smells of the medina, and spy the craftsmen at work. But beware, it’s not a shopping terrain for the faint-hearted: prepare to haggle your heart out. Then for a change of pace, visit artisan boutiques such as Beldi on Rue Mouassine, for exquisite kaftans and scarves. Akbar Delights on Place Bab Fteuh is a boutique bursting with fabrics, slippers, belts and jewellery and Moustafa Blaoui on Rue Dar el Bacha is an Aladdin’s Cave of home accessories including mirrors, poufs and throws. Fans of soft leather ‘Tod’s-style’ shoes should visit Attika on Rue de la Liberté in Guéliz. As you shop, take time to indulge in the traditional delicacy of pastilles – sweet and savoury pigeon pies. Then for a little art and culture, visit the Jardin Majorelle, which was designed in the Twenties and then restored by the legendary Yves Saint Laurent. Also, the Ben Youssef Medersa, in the medina, a 14th-century Koranic school is a beautiful building well worth a visit. To escape the medina and souks, check into one of the city’s chic Riads – Morocco’s luxury boutique hotels – such as Riad Due on Derb Chentouf or if you’re looking for something more classically opulent, La Mammounia is an established celebrity haunt. Of an evening, feast on tajine and couscous in a restaurant in the Kasbah, or sip champagne on the terrace of a hip hang-out such as Dar Yacout, a favourite with ‘A listers’ and fashionistas the world over. And if you’re shopped out, why not head to the Palmeaire, just 10 minutes outside the Medina walls, and lounge by the pool at Nikki Beach?

Something for nothing: The main square, Place Jemaa el-Fna, comes to life at night, with snake-charmers, musicians, storytellers, magicians and acrobats galore.

Flights from £217 return with BMI from Manchester. A three night stay in a double room at Riad Due in December starts from £403. For more information visit mrandmrssmith.com. W Winter 2011-12

New Year,

NEW YORK

Something for nothing: Coincide your visit with ‘restaurant week’ in January, when you will also be able enjoy the best dining New York has to offer with discounts of up to 50 per cent.

EW YORK IS EVER EVOLVING. WITH SOMETHING NEW TO SHOW OFF AT every turn, it has long been a haven for shoppers around the world. For many, New York pre-Christmas is the highlight of the festive and shopping season combined. However, once Christmas has passed, when the tourists have left and the streets are quiet - well relatively speaking - hotel and flight costs plummet and the ‘post holiday sales’ start, with bargains to be bagged at even the most exclusive stores. January is typically the coldest month in NYC, but this shouldn’t put you off. Just ensure you go prepared and well layered – the streets may be cold but the shopping is hot. At the height of the sales frenzy there is one department store that is unmissable; Saks Fifth Avenue. Lust-have designer dresses, bags, boots and much more are heavily discounted sometimes up to 60 per cent. Once you’ve had your fill of ‘Fifth’, make your way to Madison Avenue and peruse Bergdorf Goodman and the legendary Barneys where items by designers such as Balenciaga, Yves Saint Laurent and Marc Jacobs, are going for considerably less than the retail price. Or for a more alternative experience browse the boutiques of NoLiTa and stock up on limitededition trainers and vinyl in the East Village. For an afternoon away from the shops head to Central Park for some time spent on the iconic ice rink, soak up some art and culture in SoHo, or see a show on Broadway before a cocktail back in your boudoir. And dinner? Head for some comfort food at The Spotted Pig in the West Village. This ‘ye olde’ pub is littered with charming bric-a-brac, though it’s less mixed grill and more gastro delight. Or, if you’re in the mood for the finer things in life, the $150 nine-course tasting menu at Thomas ‘French Laundry’ Keller’s legendary restaurant, Per Se, in the Time Warner Centre is a must. And so to bed. Rest your head at the Library Hotel on Madison Avenue, where the warm reception will be a welcome reprieve from the madness of the sales.

Flights from £375 return with Delta Airlines from Heathrow. A three night stay in a double room at The Library Hotel in December starts from £787. For more information visit libraryhotel.com. 46

home & aWay.

Main image: the view from the Kariega Suite; above: one of the luxury bedrooms; below: the exquisite sea bass.

a winter oasis

JENNIFER TATE SPENDS A COLD WINTER EVENING WRAPPED UP AT YOREBRIDGE HOUSE IN NORTH YORKSHIRE.

ITUATED BY THE RIVER ON THE EDGE of the unspoilt village of Bainbridge, Wensleydale, in the North Yorkshire Dales, in a scene reminiscent of a Brontë novel sits the boutique hotel, Yorebridge House. To reach it you must tackle twists and turns, go up hills and venture down valleys into the deepest depths of the Yorkshire Dales but once there, you won’t want to leave. Opened in 2009, the hotel - a former grammar school - has been carefully crafted according to the owners’ taste, with each room styled to reflect a country visited on their travels. My suite, the Kariega, pays homage to Africa and definitely has a touch of the wild about it, although the décor is subtle and tasteful. The only room with its own terrace, I was eager to see what lay beyond, and once outside I was entranced by this stunning part of the world. To my left, the countryside

spanned as far as the eye could see, whilst in front, a riverbed was feeling the full force of the babbling brook after a night of heavy rain. However, the biggest draw was the hot tub situated at the foot of the terrace, which commands an incomparable view of Wensleydale. With a champagne glass in my hand I whiled away hours in the warm water with the cold wind blowing through my hair, relaxing and listening to the roar of the river mixed with birdsong. Undoubtedly one of the highlights during my stay. The sun setting over the rolling hills served as my sign to get ready and head for dinner, savouring the eclectic and locally sourced seven course menu in the candlelit decadent dining room. By the end, I was feeling gluttonous, but wholly satisfied after devouring the expertly cooked feast fit for a king. The next day, I packed my suitcase with a heavy heart and realised that I had quickly

and quietly been seduced by the charm and elegance of Yorebridge House. And, though I am sure this luxury boutique hotel remains an astounding venue in the height of summer, I don’t imagine you can capture the beauty that characterises it during the colder months. So, come the first forecast of snow I know that I’ll once again be tackling the winding roads of the Dales before decamping in the Kariega suite and returning to my winter oasis. An overnight stay at Yorebridge House starts at £180 and a three-course meal at the restaurant is £44.50 per head. For more information or to make a booking visit yorebridgehouse.co.uk. 10% discount on room rates, January to March 2012, for all W readers. Quote ‘W Magazine’ when making a booking.

GIVEA

WAY

Discount applies to advertised rate and can not be used in conjunction with any other offers.

BEST OF THE REST... Life of Luxury – Boath House, Nairn

Beautiful Boutique – Hotel Du Vin, Harrogate

Located on the stunning Scottish coast, this Grade A listed Georgian Mansion is opulence at its finest.

Set in pretty Harrogate and with chic cafes and shops aplenty, Hotel Du Vin is the perfect location for a pampering winter retreat.

To book visit boath-house.com

To book visit visit hotelduvin.com W Winter 2011-12

workout & Wellbeing.

5 1 2 3 4

y top tips to help youthistas sea son healthy and happy

risk of A high dose of zinc reduces the catching a cold by half such as Switch to a natural moisturiser supple cocoa butter to keep your face k to bolster wal k bris a Stay active and take lth mental and physical hea

beat the WINTER BLUES

Winter vegetables make the the ultimate comfort soup and vitamins will help fend off unwanted illnesses

h up with Don’t hibernate indoors, catc ing herbal tea friends over coffee or detoxify

‘25% of New Year Resolutions are broken within the first week’ New Year resolutions usually fall flat at the first hurdle - especially those that are health related - with many of us setting too many unrealistic goals. To find out the areas requiring improvement and get advice on the best way forward to help you succeed take the Boots Health Assessment (boots.com)

JOIN THE PARTY THAT EVERYONE’S (STILL) TALKING ABOUT. It’s a place where women and men of all ages can get together, shed their inhibitions and shake, shimmy and wiggle like it’s going out of fashion. And, though it’s only been around for a couple of years, Zumba has taken the world by storm, with more than 12 million advocates across 125 countries. Combining some of the more complicated Latin dances, including samba, merengue and mambo with hip-hop and aspects of belly dancing, Zumba seemingly does the impossible by making an exercise class fun and relatively simple. Doesn’t sound like much of a workout? Well that’s the real beauty of Zumba; it’s exercise in disguise. As well as being sociable, Zumba also gives a great overall workout and can help support weight loss, as due to the everchanging pace of songs it mimics interval training; one of the best ways to burn calories, while toning the whole body. With easy to follow steps that can be adapted according to ability, you become engrossed in the music, forgetting that you can’t belly dance and that your ‘hips don’t lie’. By the end you’ll be left exhausted but exhilarated and excited at the changes to your body. Find your local class at zumba.com

WONDER WOMAN Achieve superhero status the easy way in 2012, with this fabulous book by Joanne Gosling. Helping the modern woman save time, get organised and become empowered in every aspect of her life. SIMPLY WONDERWOMAN: A Survival Guide for Women with Too Much to Do, £11.39

re-energise

Shorter days and the damp, dark weather can leave us feeling sluggish and a little disheartened. Treat yourself to an hour-long energising massage, to improve circulation while the detoxifying oils leave you feeling cleansed and revitalised. Energising Massage (60mins), £40, cocoonhealthandbeauty.com

SARAH CAWOOD

the last Word.

I’m much more attuned to life than I used to be...

THE LAST BOOK YOU READ: The Psychopath Test by Jon Ronson. It only took three days lying on a sun lounger in Kos, but I loved it. Really interesting stuff! THE LAST ALBUM YOU LISTENED TO: A Different Kind Of Fix by Bombay Bicycle Club. I love them and they’re local heroes too (I live in Crouch End). THE LAST DISH YOU COOKED: I made a pumpkin pie for some friends we had over for dinner last week and it was a roaring success. I didn’t make the pastry though: does that mean it doesn’t count?! Who can be bothered making pastry when the ready-made stuff is so good and so cheap! THE LAST PLACE YOU WENT ON HOLIDAY: Kos in the Dodecanese Islands in Greece, for a week in August. It was bliss. We did nothing except eat, swim and sunbathe for seven days! THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED: Watching Mrs Doubtfire last Sunday. I’m 14 weeks pregnant at the moment so my hormones are all over the place. I cry a lot these days. THE LAST TIME YOU LAUGHED OUT LOUD: About half an hour ago, reading my boyfriend’s blog entry on our shared baby blog (helpwheresthemanual.blogspot.com) it was a particularly funny post. THE LAST TIME YOU INDULGED: I indulge myself all the time at the moment. I just had a glass of milk and two shortbread biscuits as I’m pretty much eating whatever I want to, sleeping when I want to and having lots of long, hot baths. If you can’t do it when you’re pregnant, when can you? THE LAST PERSON YOU SPOKE TO: My fiancé, to tell him his blog entry was really funny. THE LAST FILM YOU WATCHED: Attack The Block, written and directed by Joe Cornish. I think he and Adam Buxton are two of the most underrated comic talents in the country and I love them. I just wish they’d come back to BBC 6 Music Saturday mornings and stay. THE LAST ADVICE YOU LISTENED TO: Someone on twitter suggested I just remove the underwires on my bras, as opposed to spending a small fortune on maternity non-underwired bras.

‘INTERESTING STUFF’: Jon Ronson’s book, The Psychopath Test: “It only took three days lying on a sun lounger in Kos.”

Kos, Greece.

‘CRYING WITH LAUGHTER’: Comedy Classic, Mrs Doubtfire: I’m 14 weeks pregnant at the moment so my hormones are all over the place.

Sarah Cawood, has been a firm fixture on British television for over 15 years, and has recently become engaged. Currently expecting her first child, she shares her ‘last’ moments with Jennifer Tate. That was great advice that I’ll definitely be taking! THE LAST TIME YOU TOOK TIME FOR YOURSELF: Probably when I made a batch of blackberry and vanilla jam last Thursday evening. I find jam and chutney making very therapeutic. THE LAST TIME YOU WERE INSPIRED: Because I do so much blogging these days I find that I’m constantly inspired by everything that’s going on around me and I’m much more attuned to life than I used to be. THE LAST THREE PURCHASES YOU MADE: A 1930s vintage style record player for my fiancé’s birthday next week, some make up in the MAC store in Westfield and a freshly squeezed juice from Crush that I bought after I finished a voice over at the BBC. THE LAST TIME YOU WERE BACK IN THE NORTH: Probably the last time I visited my sister in Stirling back in February.

Sarah’s World. ‘GET THE LOOK’: Sarah’s make-up of choice and one of her last three purchases: “... some make up in the MAC store in Westfield.”

‘TIME OUT’: Sarah on her me-time: “I find jam and chutney making very therapeutic.”

W Winter 2011-12

LUXURY WORKSPACES. MORE AFFORDABLE THAN YOU THINK.

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W BUSINESS

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neWs...

W BRINGS YOU THE NEWS FROM THE NORTH’S LEADING BUSINESS VILLAGE, WYNYARD PARK BUSINESS SUCCESS CELEBRATED To recognise the exceptional efforts and achievements of the nominees, winners and sponsors of the Hartlepool Business Awards, Tilly Bailey & Irvine Solicitors has organised a celebration lunch at the Wynyard Rooms, Wynyard Business Park. Tony Aikenhead of Sir Robert McAlpine will speak at the event. Originally from Hartlepool, Tony is project director for the building of the London 2012 Olympic Stadium. Martin Levinson, partner with Tilly Bailey & Irvine Solicitors, commented: “We hear many negatives about business in the current economic climate, so it is vital to celebrate the amazing successes of businesses right here on our doorstep.”

HARTLEPOOL

STOCKTON REDCAR & CLEVELAND

DARLINGTON

MIDDLESBOROUGH

ALMOST £40M REGIONAL GROWTH FUND SUPPORT FOR TEES VALLEY Fifteen Tees Valley Applications Are Approved

Businesses in Tees Valley are being supported with almost £40m funding from round two of the Regional Growth Fund. The boost comes in the wake of the sub-region securing £26m in round one of bidding, which saw 15 companies awarded funding. Among the successful bids in round two was a £2.25m award towards a project for new drydock gates at Able Seaton Dock. It will increase the flexibility of what is one of the world’s biggest drydock facilities and Able UK group development director Neil Etherington said up to 230 new jobs could be created. The North East Process Industry Cluster (NEPIC) was also successful in a bid for £1.5m, which will be used to help small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In addition, Pearson-Harper, the leading provider of engineering information management services and solutions, was awarded a proportion of the Government’s £950m fund. Stephen Catchpole, managing director of Tees Valley Unlimited, said: “This is incredibly positive news for the Tees Valley and yet another clear indication from Government that we are on track and moving in the right direction. Almost £40 million of RGF support will attract significant private sector investment, generate growth and export opportunities and create and safeguard more than 2,700 jobs across the area.” 52

The successful 15 applications will have a significant economic impact on the area and will attract just under £200m in private sector investment. Tees Valley Unlimited, the Local Enterprise Partnership for the area, worked with businesses and its public sector partners to prepare the bids for round two of RGF. Mr Catchpole added: “Round two of bids forms one piece of Tees Valley’s regeneration jigsaw. “The high standard of bids has been recognised and the ambitions of TVU and our local companies acknowledged.

Today’s announcement, which supports projects throughout the Tees Valley sub-region further puts in place the foundations that will underpin the growth of the area’s economy. “It dovetails in with round one bids, the advent of Enterprise Zones, and other regeneration plans that are being put in place by TVU and our partners. The awards will have an impact on investment, private sector growth and job creation and on maximising the area’s business potential.”

IN BRIEF

The Regional Growth Fund brings with it:

•

£40M FOR THE REGION IN ROUND ONE

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£26M FOR 15 TEES VALLEY APPLICATIONS IN ROUND TWO

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THE SUCCESSFUL APPLICATIONS WILL HELP ATTRACT AROUND £200M PRIVATE SECTOR INVESTMENT

WYNYARD PARK ANNOUNCES NEW SUPPORT MANAGER As a result of increased tenant demand and its continued evolution, Wynyard Park has announced the promotion of Kimberley Anderson to executive support manager. Kimberley has worked at the park since 2007 managing the front of house and is now responsible for all tenant liaison, ensuring each business based at the park receives the highest possible standards of service and care. The newly created tenant benefit scheme, reWards, and all networking events on site will be managed by Kimberley too, along with general facilities management support. She says: “I am passionate about my new role at Wynyard Park, as I believe the knowledge and experience gained over the last four years will enable me to engage with tenants and provide services that truly deliver tangible benefits. With over 60 businesses currently on site and others relocating regularly, I am committed to ensuring the park is synonymous with quality on all levels.” Paul Barber, managing director, Wynyard Park, adds: “Kimberley is a much valued member of the team and her promotion is testament to the commitment she has shown in delivering the long term vision for the park. As we continue to grow she will play a vital role in our continued success.”

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ONE NORTH EAST HOLDS FINAL REVIEW Regional Development Agency Applauds Progress to Date

Regional development agency One North East has held its final annual review meeting ahead of its closure in March. Chairman, Paul Callaghan, told an audience of business leaders: “The North East, like the rest of the UK economy, is facing tough times but the region is better placed to meet these as a result of more than a decade of strategic economic planning and delivery by One North East and its partners. There is genuinely much to be confident about - but this positivity has to be set within a context of realism as the region faces up to its biggest economic challenges in a generation.” He added: “I am heartened at the progress made so far by the early work of Local Enterprise Partnerships and the potential of the Regional Growth Fund. The challenge for the LEPs and their partners is how to drive sustainable new growth with significantly less money and limited powers.” Since it was created in 1999, One North East invested £2.7bn into the North East economy; achieved a £4.50 return from every £1 invested and helped create, attract or protect 160,000 jobs and 19,000 businesses.

The Office for National Statistics data also shows that the economic growth gap between the North East and the UK average stabilised from 1999 up to the beginning of the recession in 2008. Chief executive Alan Clarke said:

One North East’s investment strategy to maximise the impact of our annual budget spend was to invest in a small number of key projects that had the capacity to transform regional economic growth. “The £125m Finance for Business North East Fund, the transformation of North East tourism into a £4bn a year industry through the ‘Passionate people, Passionate places’ campaign and the investment of £42m into the Teesside economy after the partial mothballing of the Redcar steelworks, are prime examples of this approach.”

TATA STEEL GEARS UP FOR GROWING WIND TURBINE JACKET DEMAND Hartlepool Site Set to Support Renewable Energy Sector

Tata Steel is investing £2m in its Hartlepool tube works and has forged a supply deal with German steel tube producer Eisenbau Kramer (EBK) to increase its product and service offering to the offshore renewable energy sector. The Hartlepool development will establish a central supply base for steel tubular sections to be used in the fabrication of wind turbine steel foundation structures, known as jacket foundations. Work on the site is expected to be completed by the spring. Components will be manufactured from tubes at the new facility and prepared for welding into the finished structures, shortening throughput times and improving cost efficiency for customers.

Ramsay Ross, director for tubes at Tata Steel, said: “This investment reinforces Tata Steel’s commitment to establishing a significant presence as supplier to the renewables sector as the drive to transform the energy supply scene in the EU gathers pace. “The wind tower hub in Scunthorpe, which was launched last year to process and distribute steel plate for fabricators, was a key step in this strategy. This separate development, in which we will be modifying buildings and investing in new assets in Hartlepool, is the next stage.” The complementary size capabilities of the two organisations will together provide what is believed to be the most comprehensive and cost-competitive package in this market.

neWs in brief. STOCKTON BUSINESS WINNERS ANNOUNCED The winners of this year’s Stockton Town Centre Business Awards have been announced. Sound It Out Records received nearly 400 votes to be named Business of the Year. Other awards included Eatery of the Year, which went to Kaminaki Greek Taverna on Church Road; Independent Retailer of the Year which was awarded to Who-Ray, a gift and memorabilia shop; and Newcomer of the Year, which was won by Chocs Away, a traditional chocolate and sweet shop in the town, among others. Judge, councillor Bob Cook, said: “The standard of entries was outstanding and a positive reflection of the fantastic retail offer that is developing across all of the borough’s town centres.”

NORTH EAST ENGLAND TOURISM AWARDS WINNERS UNVEILED The region’s best tourism businesses have been unveiled with Rockliffe Hall Hotel picking up the top award. The luxury golf spa resort, located in Darlington, which is also home to Great British Menu and Michelin starred chef, Kenny Atkinson’s ‘Kenny at the Orangery’ restaurant, was named Large Hotel of the Year at the North East England Tourism Awards 2011, which were held at Sunderland’s Stadium of Light. Rockliffe Hall Hotel picked up the gold award and will go on to represent the region in the national Visit England Awards for Excellence in the spring. In the same category, Gisborough Hall in North Yorkshire won the silver award. The Tall Ships Races 2010, which came to Hartlepool, was the overall winner in the Tourism Event of the Year category.

WORLDSKILLS UK ENGINEERING OFFERS UNIQUE SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES Wynyard Park-based Semta is offering companies the opportunity to get involved in preparing for WorldSkills Leipzig 2013 through sponsorship of WorldSkills UK Engineering Competitions in 2012. Semta is offering new sponsors the chance to underline their commitment to improving workforce skills through attracting new trainees and employees via a raised regional and national profile. Sponsorship support will also help build connections with education and business networks across the country, leading to new business opportunities. W Winter 2011-12

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HUNTSMAN WINS TOP PRIZE AT ICHEME AWARDS Wynyard Based Chemical Giant Acknowledged

Huntsman’s Pigments division, whose global business centre is located at Wynyard Park, won the top prize at the Institute of Chemical Engineers (IChemE) 2011 annual awards ceremony. Huntsman received the ‘Outstanding Achievement in Chemical and Process Engineering Award’ for its longterm sustainability project that has transformed the future of its titanium dioxide manufacturing plant at Calais, France, bringing environmental benefits such as an important reduction in the

site’s energy consumption intensity, and in its carbon footprint. “This award is a significant achievement and recognises dedication and teamwork across the business,” said Simon Turner, president of Huntsman’s Pigments division. “As a leading global chemical producer, we embrace our responsibility to develop and manufacture products that contribute to a sustainable world. By driving innovation and growth, we aim to create value for all our stakeholders today, constantly mindful of impact on tomorrow.”

HRH THE PRINCE OF WALES VISITS STEEL PLANT Royal Seal of Approval at Redcar Plant

The Prince of Wales recently visited the SSI steel plant in Redcar to see the work being undertaken to bring the facility back into use. The Prince, who last visited the plant in May, was given a tour of the blast furnace, which is being brought back to life bringing with it 1,000 new jobs and safeguarding 700 roles. He was met by a delegation including SSI president Win Viriyaprapaikit, SSI UK chief executive Phil Dryden and SSI project director Derek Thomas, who is overseeing the refurbishment of the site. The Prince was then taken inside the blast furnace to see the renovation work being undertaken and met the team preparing the facility including furnace project manager Peter Whitfield, who

had helped build the furnace while an apprentice in 1976. He also met teenagers taking part in the Industrial Cadet programme, launched four weeks ago by Tata Steel. The idea for the project, giving 24 youngsters the chance to take part in an eightweek programme aimed at stimulating their interest in manufacturing and engineering was suggested by the Prince during his initial visit. Jon Bolton, director of Tata Steel Long Products and former managing director of the Redcar plant, said: “He mentioned it when he was here over a year ago and we picked that up and ran with it. In many ways, The Prince of Wales was responsible for this and it’s fantastic he has come back to see it in action.”

CAR MANUFACTURER GIVES APPRENTICES GREEN LIGHT Nifco Pledges to Support Evolution of Skilled Workers

Award winning Stockton based car manufacturer, Nifco UK Ltd, has appointed three apprentices as it gears up for growth. The apprentices – the first to be appointed by the firm in a decade – have joined the team as part of a major recruitment drive that will see Nifco increase its headcount from 250 to 300 over the coming months. Nifco UK’s managing director, Mike Matthews, said: “So often, young people are not given the opportunity to train and develop skills that will get their careers off the ground. Apprenticeships not only provide businesses with driven and 54

enthusiastic employees, but they give people – particularly young people - the chance to pursue the career they want, gaining theoretical and practical skills they will need throughout their working life. We’re delighted to welcome our new recruits to the team as they take their first step on the career ladder.” Mr Matthews also believes that a shortage of skilled workers in manufacturing will need to be plugged if the sector is to realise its potential. With predictions of 2.8 per cent growth in UK manufacturing this year, he believes that apprenticeships will be increasingly important.

IN BRIEF

Redcar’s steel plant brought back to life:

• •

1,000 NEW JOBS 700 ROLES ‘SAFEGUARDED’

•

INDUSTRIAL CADET PROGRAMME LAUNCHED FOLLOWING SUGGESTION FROM PRINCE CHARLES

COMMS GROUP CHOOSES WYNYARD One of the UK’s fastest growing telecommunications and data companies, Comms Group, has moved into new offices at Wynyard Park. The company has moved to the site’s Business Village and is now targeting expansion, with plans to increase its workforce to around 20 technical and support staff within its first year. This is the first regional office for Comms Group, which has been launched by four former Powerdial Systems colleagues. Tony Snaith, regional director, said: “We have already proved that offering tenants a reliable, fast and flexible package of communications is exactly what is required in a rapidly changing work environment. With up to 100mbs of dedicated internet connections available over a fibre optic and wireless backbone already installed across the business park we are able to connect existing and prospective tenants within a matter of days.” Alan Sherwin, group IT director, added: “Now that we are onsite we are starting to see more clients on a day to day basis and are getting feedback on exactly what they need to operate their business.” Comms Group, whose dedicated onsite engineers have over 80 years combined industry experience, provides disaster recovery and backup services, IT security, virtualisation and server monitoring solutions and will soon be offering cloudbased IT services and video conferencing from desktops and iPads.

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neWs in brief. AXA TO CREATE 450 JOBS IN MOVE TO MIDDLESBROUGH Insurance giant Axa is creating 450 jobs after moving to offices in Middlesbrough. The company has signed a 10-year lease on the recently revamped Zetland Buildings and is currently recruiting for the new positions, strengthening its 300-strong workforce at Teesdale. North East property company, Jomast, began the £5m renovation of Zetland Buildings last year, providing more than 40,000 sq ft of office accommodation.

FASHIONISTA LAUNCHES BESPOKE RANGE

SUPPORT FOR TWO HUNDRED NEW EXECUTIVE HOMES IN WYNYARD Sustainable Mixed Use Community Edges Ever Closer

Wynyard Park’s plans to build 200 executive homes on land to the West of the business park have been granted outline planning approval from Hartlepool Borough Council’s planning committee. As part of the plans, the developer has agreed to provide £1.2m towards off site affordable housing provision in Hartlepool, plus a further £600,000 commitment towards highways improvements. A more detailed application needed for full planning permission is due to be submitted next spring. Paul Barber, Wynyard Park’s managing director, said: “We are very pleased to have received outline planning permission as there is a real need for more high quality housing in the borough. We want to create a community where people can work and live.”

Labour councillor, Jonathan Brash, said: “The £1.2m contribution is fantastic and I would congratulate the developers and the officers who have worked extremely hard.” Conservative group leader, Ray Wells, added: “We do need more executive housing in the borough, and this is a perfect site.” Independent councillor, Hilary Thompson, agreed: “We have identified this site for housing as part of the Core Strategy, which is a 15-year council planning blueprint for the development of Hartlepool.” Speaking about the contribution towards affordable housing, Mr. Barber concluded: “We are very keen to support the regeneration of Hartlepool and we are more than happy to make this £1.2m contribution as the council is the best placed body to decide how that money is spent.”

RELAUNCH OF CORNER EMPORIUM Businesses bolstered by benefits and support packages

Budding entrepreneurs are being offered another golden opportunity to get their businesses off the ground. New retailers are invited to apply for rentfree space in a prime site in Middlesbrough town centre. The Council is working in partnership with West Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Trust and a group of businesses led by Greggs in collaboration with Business in the Community to relaunch the

popular Corner Emporium in The Mall. The project offers incubator opportunities to a maximum of 10 businesses, providing them with free retail space for up to six months; access to individual professional or business development support; a branding and PR package aimed at raising awareness and attracting customers as well as dedicated support to help find suitable premises once the incubation period is over.

A fashion designer who played a lead role in the recent success of one of the North East’s most popular clothing exports has launched her own label. Andrea Freeman, from Darlington, has launched Redana Studio, a bespoke clothing and accessories brand. Flagship products include hand-finished scarves known as ‘the hug’.

BROTHERS RAISE A GLASS TO FINE WINE Two brothers are bringing a taste of the world’s finest vineyards to the North East with the launch of a new wine merchants and bar in Darlington. The business will also run wine tasting and corporate events for people passionate about wines from across the globe. Darren said: “If we can prove the concept is popular in Darlington, which we believe we will, we are expecting to open further venues in the North East.”

PETERLEE-BASED CATERPILLAR FORECASTING RECORD YEAR Manufacturing giant Caterpillar, which employs more than 1,200 staff in the North East, is celebrating a 44 per cent rise in quarterly profits. Peterlee based Caterpillar expects to see revenue in 2012 increasing 10-20 per cent above the $35bn turnover it expects this year. The company recently recruited 200 staff to meet client demand.

NORTECH ACHIEVES ISO 9001 QUALITY ACCREDITATION Wynyard Park based Nortech Solutions Ltd has been awarded the ISO 9001 Quality Assurance Certification, the internationally recognised standard for quality management of business. The certification covers the company’s full range of Engineering Design and Project Management Services. W Winter 2011-12

marketWise. THE EVOLVING BUSINESS LANDSCAPE

usiness Editor, Leanne English, looks at the region’s evolving business landscape exploring its strengths within the export market and asks two experts in the field why companies should exploit the multitude of overseas opportunities. Recently released figures show the North East’s export market is growing much faster than the average national rate, meaning regional businesses are making a vital contribution to the ongoing efforts to rebalance the UK economy after the global economic downturn. Government figures for the second quarter of 2011 show that our export market is worth around £3.1 billion, bringing the annual total to a record £12.9 billion, 21 per cent higher than the previous 12 months. So what’s the North East’s secret to its success? James Ramsbotham, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, believes it’s simple – “the region makes things people want”. Whether it be paint, packing foam, cars, polymers, cables, chemicals, valves or pipes, the region makes and sells it – usually overseas. “Our businesses are at the forefront of the UK’s drive in terms of opening up foreign markets, exploiting opportunities in new and developing economies and as such, leading the fight back from the economic downturn. In terms of exports, the North East has the healthiest balance of trade of all UK regions and our companies are exploiting new overseas opportunities on a daily basis. “Whilst I am certain the service sector will come back stronger following this period of sluggish economic growth, it is currently our exporters and manufacturers that continue to drive regional growth according to

trends demonstrated by the NECC’s Business Barometer, the largest business survey in the region. Our strength in supplying the overseas market was demonstrated by the record £12.9 billion exported last year and these figures are all the more impressive considering they were achieved during the harshest recession in generations.” However, to support the continued growth of the export market, the Chamber recently launched NECC Global, a product that consists of two packages, NECC Global Membership for small and medium members, and NECC Global Leader for large, corporate and partner members. The new service is an upgrade for members engaged in export activities, providing them with access to an additional range of specialist services and further discounts on many current services such as International Trade Training. The Link to China project has also been set up as a matchmaker service aimed at creating links in the Far East for regional firms. “While the bulk of our export success can be attributed to the manufacturing and engineering sector, there is also evidence demonstrating a positive link between innovation, research and development and exporting. The North East has a proud history of producing and nurturing great innovators and pioneers and it’s good to see that those companies which invest in research and development are more likely to benefit from exporting” James adds. COMPANIES KEEN TO EXPORT CAN also receive help and assistance from UK Trade and Investment, which the Government has confirmed is being retained in the North East. David Coppock, UK Trade and Investment regional director for the North East, welcomed the latest HM Revenue and Customs’ statistics, which show regional exports are at a

STATISTICALLY

speaking •

The North East’s export market is currently worth £12.9 billion.

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Our regional exports currently account for almost one quarter of the national market.

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The USA remains the largest export market for goods across the region. The Netherlands, Spain, Russia, Turkey and Germany are also growing rapidly.

record high, despite a slight dip in the first quarter of 2011. “There has been a drop in the latest statistics but this follows our two best ever quarterly performances and at £3.1 billion, it still represents our third highest quarterly export total. Overall our 12-month figure remains at a record high, which is excellent news. “It reinforces the fact that there continues to be a strong demand around the world for North East products. And as we celebrate 25 years of Nissan in the North East, it’s gratifying to see that the automotive sector continues to be the strongest sector for exports from the region and enjoyed 40 per cent growth. But, we need to continue to build on this strong growth and UKTI will continue to offer practical help for North East companies to ensure they win business overseas.” For information regarding the help available visit necc.co.uk or ukti.gov.uk/northeast

marketWise.

COMMERCIAL PROPERTY

BUILDING TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE

he region, like most of the country, is working its way through one of the most challenging commercial markets of the last two decades. However, there are reasons to be optimistic. THE NORTH EAST IS RENOWNED for its resilience and positivity, and it’s these traits, says commercial property expert Tim Evans, which will see the region bounce back from the global economic downturn. Tim is a partner of Knight Frank, the world’s leading independent residential and commercial property consultancy, which has played a key role in some of the North East’s most successful developments including Wynyard Park, Quorum, Doxford International Business Park in Sunderland and Newcastle’s Quayside among others. He believes recent investment in the region by leading global firms such as Hitachi and SSI, along with the continued growth of Nissan, is sending out positive signals to the private sector that the region remains an attractive proposition for development and trade. Tim, who has worked in the North East since the early 1970s, believes “There are definitely reasons for this region to be optimistic about the future, such as securing big players who have chosen to invest here because they see the real potential on offer. “Our commercial property market continues to operate against a challenging backdrop, but no more so than other regions around England. Development has been the lifeblood of the region, bringing with it new skills and careers, which have compensated in part to the loss of mining, ship building and other heavy industries.” To this end, Tim is keen to point out that this year has seen a number of significant lettings within Tees Valley, including Huntsman taking over

85,000 sq ft of space at the prestigious Wynyard Park development and Fabrick Housing acquiring a 40,000 sq ft building at Middlehaven in Middlesbrough. And what about the support available to new or expanding businesses, which are keen to relocate into new premises as they grow? “Landlords of commercial office space are being so much more flexible now, offering companies ‘easy in, easy out’ packages and shorter lease terms to enable them to establish their business in premises which befit their plans,” says Tim. “This is really important, because to have a thriving large business base, we need our SMEs to be doing well and vice versa. Also initiatives like the new-look Enterprise Zones, which include business rate discounts worth up to £275,000 over a five-year period, are just some of the incentives needed to get the commercial property sector in the North East going again. “Commercial property has always been a little more challenging in this area than in others and as such we are proud to have a resilient, positive attitude to development. Moreover, the region is very lucky to have a number of high profile, home grown private developers that we believe will start dusting off plans for the new development as confidence increases.”

STATISTICALLY

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Commercial property investment levels reached an all year high at £109.7m in the last year.

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The market performance between July and September was dominated by the £108.1m purchase of the Cleveland Shopping Centre in Middlesbrough by F&C Reit Asset Management.

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As a result of the deal the total amount invested in the North East increased by 238% from the second quarter which saw just £32.5m.

directors could combine their pension funds to purchase new trading premises for their business. ARLINGTON FINANCIAL LTD IS a Hartlepool-based firm, which specialises in this type of investment. Jon Sturrock, managing director, believes “Businesses are finding it increasingly difficult to get finance from the banks, who still remain reluctant to lend, so using money the owners have sitting in their pension funds makes sound commercial sense. They can put the money to good use, enabling them to acquire commercial property, while also benefiting from tax relief on any contributions made at the highest rates of income or corporation tax. “In the current climate this method is becoming increasingly popular and we are currently involved in several deals with businesses that are using pension funds as a way to purchase commercial property. This allows business owners to purchase new trading premises to allow their businesses to expand and create jobs without having to take on high levels of debt, if indeed they could raise the finance in the first place.” For more information visit knightfrank.co.uk and arlington-financial.com

BUSINESSES ARE ALSO BEING encouraged to explore the benefits of using pension funds to acquire commercial property – an increasingly attractive proposition because of the tax saving advantages. A Self Invested Personal Pension (SIPP) or Small Self Administered Scheme (SSAS) enables investors to purchase commercial property via their pension scheme. It is also possible for several pension schemes to work together to purchase property. For example, a group of company W Winter 2011-12

wiseWords. ARE YOU IN NEED OF SOME BUSINESS ADVICE? ARE YOU LOOKING FOR THE BEST SERVICES AND PRODUCTS FOR YOUR BUSINESS? OUR TEAM OF INDUSTRY EXPERTS ARE HERE TO HELP.

“As the export market continues to grow and prove a sound platform for bolstering economic recovery, what support can businesses expect from insurers?” J Baker, Manufacturer

OUR PANEL

DAVID WILSON Branch Manager, Bluefin

DAVID WILSON: MOST INSURERS CAN PROVIDE liability cover for products exported, in the event that they cause damage or injury, although some territories can attract a higher rate due to their litigious nature. If it is labour or services, rather than a product that is being exported, there is a possibility of local legislation requiring the insurance to be written within that country so you will need to get professional advice before proceeding. One of the major issues is the credit risk in the event that your customer is unable to pay after the goods have been supplied. This risk is heightened when exporting because you may be dealing in markets that you are not used to and dealing with customers where you may not accurately know their trading history. Most credit insurers can provide cover in respect of exports and may also have access to information regarding the trading history of your prospective customer, which can enable you to make an informed decision. As with your normal business insurance, the advice of an independent broker will help you get the best cover at the best price for your particular circumstances. Aside from the insurance implications of exporting it is also imperative that you ensure that there are no trading embargoes on the country you are looking to trade in. Business Link www.businesslink.gov.uk is a good source for current trading restrictions. For advice: bluefingroup.co.uk

KATIE ADAMS Solicitor, Employment, Ward Hadaway

“Could a move to employment law based on guidance be a solution to the overregulated UK workplace?” C Ward, small business owner

ALAN SHERWEN IT Director, Comms Group

KATIE ADAMS: THE CBI HAS CALLED ON THE government to rethink its approach to employment law. Instead of automatically opting for complex legislation, the CBI says the government should specify what it is trying to achieve and set out suggested processes in more flexible guidance or codes of practice, allowing employers to manage their workforce with more flexibility. Employers will undoubtedly welcome this view but it is difficult to see it becoming a reality. Without any statutory force, it seems inevitable that codes of

W brings you the sharpest advice for all the latest burning business issues. Investment, legal, corporate, financial and commercial... we’ve got it covered...

practice and guidance would be overlooked and ignored by many employers, rendering them a waste of time. As part of its employment law review, the government has pledged to reduce the burden of legislation by reducing the stock of regulations that are already in place. Together with the proposal that new start ups and businesses with fewer than 10 employees should be exempt from new domestic regulation and the reform relating to employment tribunals (introduction of fees and the proposed increase of the unfair dismissal qualifying period from 1 year to 2 years), these measures are a more practical response to enable employers to focus on running their businesses, helping the economy to grow. For advice: wardhadaway.com

“As a rapidly expanding business with multiple sites I am considering cloud computing as an alternative communications system – what are the benefits and how practical is it for a business with 30 employees but potentially rising to 100 employees in the course of the next 24 months?” F Harrison, pharmaceutical contract manufacturer ALAN SHERWEN: CLOUD COMPUTING IS CERTAINLY a viable option for a business with 30-100 employees. Using the cloud, organisations can replace or supplement on site solutions for desktop computing, shared file storage, email, back-up and disaster recovery. The main benefits include; financial savings, as the overall annual cost of ownership is 30 - 50 per cent less than on premises; zero investment in new equipment, as the system makes use of existing hardware; simplified operations, as there is no need for internal IT resources to manage systems and business continuity, as disaster recovery comes as standard. It is also easy to set up and future proofed as the vendor makes the investment in technology not the end user. However, the choice of vendor should be carefully considered and you must evaluate the scale of your business now and in the future checking that their solution can handle your data and requirements. It is vital to ensure the data is being stored securely - it could be in another country. Also beware of vendor lock in and ensure pricing is all-inclusive or any extras are clearly documented, paying particular attention to the Service Level Agreement. For advice: commsgroup.com

If you have a question that you’d like our panel of experts to answer then email it to wmagazine@velvetcommunications.co.uk

shoWcase.

Let the

SUN

SHINE

BUSINESSES ACROSS THE NORTH EAST ARE BEING ENCOURAGED TO EXPLORE THE BENEFITS OF SOLAR PANELS AS PART OF A DRIVE TO PROMOTE RENEWABLE ENERGY.

olar photovoltaic panels are becoming ubiquitous across the UK. Cast your eyes skywards and you’ll see the deep blue-and-silver-veined panels winking back at you assuming the sun’s shining - from the rooftops of an ever-increasing number of commercial and residential buildings taking advantage of generous government incentives which pay you for generating electricity. LEADING NATIONAL COMPANY, YourSolarPanels.co.uk, which is headquartered in the North East, was founded by entrepreneur John Scott Davies through a joint venture with Brogen Macy International, to provide businesses and individuals across the country with the energy and cost saving technology, as well as access to information to determine if solar paneling would be a viable option. Solar panels can deliver significant reductions in energy bills for many businesses and homeowners, as well as benefiting the environment. And, as the Government steps up its efforts to promote all forms of renewable energy, there’s also an opportunity to earn money from one of the national incentive schemes. John, who divides his time between his home in Teesside and offices in Dubai, believes photovoltaic (PV) solar panels can bring considerable benefits to businesses and homeowners across the Tees Valley. “There’s no doubt solar panels can offer tangible benefits to the bill payer while having a positive impact upon our environment, which is why our Government, and others around the world, are promoting the use of the

technology.” In fact, the Government is so keen to raise awareness of the benefits of solar paneling that it launched the Feed in Tariff scheme (FIT), which enables people to earn money for the energy they produce, which is then fed back into the National Grid. Businesses can opt to purchase panels outright or lease them over 7 years, generating income which is index linked, tax free, guaranteed for 25 years and payments are usually made quarterly. “Leading experts predict that fuel prices could double over the next five years, and double again by 2020. So there’s never been a better time to explore the benefits of solar paneling as a viable alternative to traditional energy solutions. The savings for both businesses and homeowners can be extensive. For instance, a business could reduce its annual energy bills by up to 50 per cent as well as earning tax free income through the Feed In Tariff scheme providing an annual income of up to £1,500. The fact that you can also lease the panels makes solar technology an even more accessible and realistic option, offsetting the costs of the panels against the savings made through the tax-free leasing scheme.” SOLAR ENERGY REPRESENTS A cleaner, greener alternative to fossil fuels such as coal and oil, which currently account for 75 per cent of the world’s electricity generation. The panels emit no carbon dioxide as they operate, helping the planet to minimise its carbon footprint and reducing the reliance upon the rapidly depleting global resource of fossil fuels.

STATISTICALLY

speaking

It’s not just the business sector that can benefit:

•

Householders could expect to be paid £40,000 over 25 years.

•

A 4kW system could save users an estimated £200 every year on their energy bills.

•

A recent MORI poll showed that the value of properties could increase by over £10,000 if solar panels are installed.

YourSolarPanels.co.uk recently received access to £10 million of funding to assist regional businesses explore the benefits of installing solar panels and to provide guidance and advice regarding the leasing process. One such regional business is Wynyard Park, the North East’s most prestigious business park, which is currently exploring the potential of installing panels at Wynyard Park House, the central hub at the park. However, there are countless other forward thinking organisations that are in the process of adding solar power to their energy mix or seriously contemplating it. In fact, a number of North East businesses have already committed to the scheme and are reaping the rewards. Nonetheless, businesses and homeowners alike are being warned of new changes to the Feed In Tariff rates, which are set to be cut from 43.3p to 21p from December 11th 2011. And, while the cut has been met with frustration, those installing panels could still potentially earn up to £40,000 over 25 years “This really is a win-win scheme for businesses, as not only will it save them considerable sums of money but it will also help them contribute to global efforts to protect the environment. It’s quite rightly become one of the most popular forms of renewable energy and I would urge regional businesses and homeowners to contact one of our trade advisors to see how solar paneling could benefit them now and in the future.” For more information visit YourSolarPanels.co.uk or call 0845 456 1050 W Winter 2011-12

destination

HAIR IMAGE IS EVERYTHING. THE WAY WE LOOK HAS AN IMPACT UPON THE WAY WE FEEL AND THE WAY WE ACT. SO IT’S HARDLY SURPRISING THAT IN SPITE OF THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN, THE HAIR AND BEAUTY INDUSTRY CONTINUES TO FLOURISH. BUT, IS THIS TRULY REPRESENTATIVE OF THE NORTH EAST? AWARD WINNING HAIR DUO GARY HOOKER AND MICHAEL YOUNG TELL ELIZABETH EDDY WHY THEY BELIEVE IT IS.

EOPLE WILL ALWAYS INVEST IN THEIR APPEARANCE, they are simply making more informed decisions as the purse strings tighten, according to Michael. “It’s no longer just about the haircut or colour, it’s the whole experience. People want to feel good about themselves and as soon as they step into our salons, they expect to feel indulged and valued.” Creating the perfect salon environment has been crucial to the success of the Hooker & Young brand. Since launching the business back in 1996, both Gary and Michael had a clear vision to set their brand apart from their counterparts, ensuring longevity and creating a platform from which they could gain international recognition. “We deliberately shied away from city centre locations, preferring to establish a portfolio of destination salons” says Gary. A bold and brave move given that the ‘destination salon’ concept is a rare proposition in the North. Yet, it has worked. With five stunning salons across the North East in Gosforth, Jesmond, Seaham Hall, Darlington and Wynyard, the partners have a dedicated 60 strong team and have cultivated a reputation as one of the most successful luxury hair chains in the country. Aside from their personal achievements - they have been 60

making it Work. crowned North Eastern hairdresser of the Year no less than seven times; British Colour Technician of the Year; Most Wanted Creative Director; nominated for British Hairdresser of the Year and shot over thirty magazine front covers in addition to their roles as international ambassadors for global haircare brand, Matrix - they have carved out an incredibly successful business and more importantly established a brand that is now synonymous with luxury, creativity and talent. “Since we opened our first salon in Gosforth, we have been determined to build a brand that would put the North East on the map and create opportunities for those individuals in the region that are as passionate as we are about hair and ultimately making people feel and look the best they possibly can” Gary says. “While the perception still remains that you have to be in London to make it on the national and international stage, or to be at the forefront of the latest trends and have a successful career, that’s just not the case. We are proof of that and constantly strive to showcase the immense talent there is in the region.” Michael agrees “We’re both born and bred in the North East and have only ever worked here. Anything is achievable if you are prepared to work hard, learn your craft and have an innate passion for hair and the industry. I believe great workmanship will always be recognised. That said, you do have to work that little bit harder up here to ensure you’re seen and heard. But once you’ve made your mark you can take your career in whichever direction you choose, whether that is as a session stylist, celebrity hairdresser or take the entrepreneurial route and create your own brand. Or why not combine all aspects as we have done? Anything is possible if you want it badly enough and are prepared to work for it.” IT WAS ORIGINALLY THEIR CELEBRITY hairdresser status and personal high profiles that influenced their clientele, now both are proud that it is their over-arching brand and style of hairdressing that shapes their ever growing and diverse client base. While both continue to work across all of their salons, their highly skilled stylists are as sought after as they are. “We’ve worked hard to develop a signature style and

They’ve established a brand that is now synonymous with luxury, creativity and talent... approach that’s embedded into each of our salons and our stylists” says Michael. “Like other successful chains, we have a clearly defined approach and business model so our customers feel confident and comfortable that no matter who cuts, colours or styles their hair, they will inevitably have enjoyed the Hooker & Young experience.” Gary adds “Our staff are like our family and, while that may seem a cliché, it’s true. It’s probably also the ‘Northern’ aspect of our characters to want to nurture and support our staff W Winter 2011-12

making it Work. so that they can achieve their dreams too. We pride ourselves on our commitment to personal development, being accessible to every member of the team and as a result, all our staff are incredibly loyal, which is vital when building a brand.” BUT TO BE AS SUCCESSFUL AS GARY AND MICHAEL, style cannot take precedence over substance. “Hairdressing is often viewed as a ‘soft’ industry” says Gary “but if the business is managed well, it can prove extremely rewarding and lucrative.” While accolades and magazine shoots are glamorous and exciting, the day-to-day operations of running a successful business in the luxury industry have to be precise and effective. To this end Gary and Michael have worked tirelessly implementing measures to make their chain profitable. When they opened their fifth site in Darlington, they dedicated the entire ground floor to retail, a unique move and potentially a risk. However it was a calculated risk and the salon achieves a minimum of 26 per cent retail turnover each week in comparison to the 15 per cent at each of the other salons and the ten per cent national average. It is innovation of this nature that has ensured Gary and Michael are two of the region’s most inspiring entrepreneurs. Their successful business partnership can also be attributed to the natural chemistry they have had since they first met some twenty years ago. At the time both were working for the same hairdressing chain in Newcastle before meeting outside of work, and the rest as they say, is history. Hooker & Young was founded with the opening of its first salon in Gosforth and the Jesmond branch quickly followed. Then, lured to Wynyard by family friends in 2001 they set up home in the affluent village before opening their third salon. Fifteen years on and the partners freely admit that it is the “synergy of their different strengths” that underpins their success. “We have been together for so long now that we know exactly what the other is thinking, we finish each other’s sentences and know when the other needs support.” says Michael. But do they always agree? “No not all the time” admits Gary “as we’re so involved in every aspect of the business we inevitably step into each other’s world and that can sometimes cause a little tension, but we have an understanding and simply agree to disagree. On the whole, working and living together has never posed a problem for us and more than anything we feel lucky to have realised our dream and achieved what we have together.” AND, WHILE THEY HAVE ACHIEVED MORE THAN MOST hairdressers could hope to, the partners have big plans for 2012. “We’ve been developing our own hair care range and it’s set for launch next year” says Michael. “We can’t wait, as it will help elevate our brand to the next level and we’ve had so much fun creating the line.” But, loyal clients needn’t worry as both Gary and Michael will continue to front the business, as while the continued expansion and evolution of the brand is high on their agenda, their love of hairdressing will always come first.

For more information about Hooker & Young visit hookerandyoung.co.uk or call 01740 644690

The award-winning duo, Gary Hooker (left) and Michael Young (right): “While the perception still remains that you have to be in London to make it on the national and international stage...that’s just not the case.”

how Gary & Michael

make it Work... How do you relax? Gary: We have nine dogs and I breed Great Danes, showing them around the world, as well as judging competitions. Michael: We both love to entertain and we’ll have friends over for dinner and drinks most weekends. Since we moved to Wynyard we’ve built such a lovely community of friends and as we live and work together it’s important that we can switch off with people outside the industry, otherwise we’d talk hair all day, everyday!

How do you divide the business responsibilities? Michael: We’re both involved in all aspects of the business, but I tend to oversee HR, training and marketing. Gary: I work closely with our professional services associates, managing the financial side of the company, but we’re both so hands on that we always know what the other is doing.

How would you describe your style and work ethic? Gary: We’re passionate, tenacious and ultimately creative. But most importantly we truly care about the industry, our clients and our team. Michael: Diverse – we can create everything from the avant-garde to the most wearable practical style for the everyday woman.

suit the

MAKETH the man

JENNIFER TATE TALKS TO ‘MR. SAVILE ROW’, WILLIAM HUNT, AND DISCOVERS WHAT INFLUENCES HIS SIGNATURE AND NOW ICONIC STYLE.

“A

SUIT MAKES ORDINARY GUYS feel better about themselves and that’s what my brand is all about,” explains William Hunt. “A well made suit says ‘I care about my appearance’ and as a result boosts a man’s self esteem and confidence.” So what is it that inspires him? Well, it seems that love and old-fashioned romance are themes that punctuate William’s philosophy. Describing himself as a ‘true romantic at heart’, he genuinely hopes his brand will help others find love. “When designing I always think of the romantic notion of a man courting a woman on a date, and the confidence the suit they are 64

wearing will give them.” It’s not surprising then that his suits appear to have been designed with a woman’s eye in mind, focusing on creating lean, strong lines. A professional footballer at the age of 18, William didn’t have the archetypal beginning in the world of fashion. Born in Swinton and raised in Whitefield, he was lured from the football pitch to the drawing board by Manchester’s vibrant music scene and 70s and early 80s Northern Soul. An interest in engineering and skills in architectural design meant William was a natural when it came to fashion design, paving the way for his overwhelming future success.

After opening a store on the Kings Road in Chelsea and then a second on Neal Street in Covent Garden, he opened his eponymous boutique in the heart of the world-famous Savile Row, with clients rushing to the store to purchase his overtly masculine designs, featuring bold flashes of colour. Today, work wardrobes across the country pay homage to his iconic tailored creations. Screen icon, Gene Kelly, and other heroes from the glamorous Hollywood era of old have strongly influenced his now signature style and collections over the years. Today, his sharp, edgy cuts and distinctive designs have led to a significant following from

workWear.

The classic suit should take inches off your waist and add them to your height. actors, rock stars, sportsmen and wellheeled businessmen the world over. For William, designing and making suits is a passion and not one to be taken lightly. “An awful lot goes in to designing a suit, much like it does for a handcrafted couture gown. A couple of millimetres here and there can make all the difference.” William now hopes to encourage the ‘everyday man’ to embrace the classic, well-made suit both in and out of the office. “Suits are all about cut and colour and always will be. The classic suit should take inches off your waist and add them to your height. You simply can’t go wrong with a well made suit.” High expectation indeed, but

as devotees of William’s suits will testify, his tailoring can literally make you feel two inches taller and seven pounds lighter. As a result of his devotion to designing the ideal, masculine suit, he believes any man can find ‘his suit’ within the collection. And, as the power of a suit and the profile of tailoring has been given a boost by celebrity icons such as David Beckham - recall the heritage vibe the footballer channelled throughout 2010 and his sharp morning suit at this year’s Royal Wedding William’s clientele continues to expand and is diverse. “All men want to look good in a suit so our appeal is broad and we have everyone from teenagers to grandfathers

visiting our store. It’s a label for ordinary guys at the end of the day and as such there is no typical customer.” Though fashion trends may come and go, there’s always one look that William believes remains timeless. From the young Marlon Brando and the Rat Pack to modern day celebrity stars such as George Clooney W Winter 2011-12

workWear.

and Daniel Craig, they all fall back on one failsafe look. “If you own only one suit, make sure it’s the classic black. You just cannot better a beautifully cut black suit” says William. Celebrities aside, the suit is often the most important weapon a businessman has at his disposal, but to get the look just right there are a number of essentials, which should always be on hand. “A must-have for any man’s work wardrobe includes; to two pairs of black shoes, two pairs of brown shoes, a navy suit, a cashmere wool mix coat, a selection of simple, tonal ties to match the suit, three white and two blue shirts and then three more adventurous shirts. And, of course a black tailored suit is the linchpin of any wardrobe and should be viewed as an investment so be prepared to spend around £500 to ensure it’s made of exquisite fabric and cut perfectly.” So, whether it’s off-the-peg or bespoke, for an interview or everyday, make sure your suit is working for you.

For more information, to order online or to find local stockist details visit williamhunt.co.uk

Wired.

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W Winter 2011-12

olicitor Martin Levinson talks about why the law of probability has shaped his career LEANNE ENGLISH TALKS TO RESPECTED TEESSIDE SOLICITOR MARTIN LEVINSON ABOUT GROWING UP IN ONE OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST WELL KNOWN LEGAL FAMILIES, HIS LOVE OF THE PROFESSION AND THE VERY DIFFERENT CAREER PATH HE NEARLY TOOK.

W life.

While the last three years have proved testing, we have weathered the storm...

ARTIN LEVINSON was destined to be a successful solicitor. With his father and uncles all working in the legal profession, it seemed only natural that he would follow in their footsteps. And having practiced law for nearly 40 years, it’s hard to imagine the 61-year-old doing anything else.

had one and half hours for lunch, which then became one hour and now I’m lucky if I get a lunch break at all due to the fast pace of the industry. In those days business was much more personal because we didn’t have the technology we do today. That said, communication is now more effective and instant.”

SO HOW DOES A MAN WHO IS SO IT WAS CERTAINLY A SURPRISE so clearly devoted to, and respected when, during our chat about Martin’s for, his successful career – industry role as managing partner of the Tilly bible The Legal 500 described him as Bailey and Irvine offices at Wynyard ‘particularly wise and calculated in Park, he revealed he actually wanted to decision making’ - unwind? study history. Well, going to watch his beloved “I was initially determined not to Hartlepool United certainly helps. follow in my father’s footsteps so I’d “I’ve been supporting the club for decided to study history at university. over 50 years and enjoy going to the W met Martin for coffee in the drawing room at Crathorne Hall to uncover his W life. But in the end I didn’t get the grades I matches, through good times and needed to do that so I had to go back bad. Football has a way of bringing to the drawing board. people together and I love that.” “It was then that I decided I really did want a career in law, so And, Martin openly credits his occasional hobby as an amateur that’s what I did. And to be honest I’ve never looked back. My actor with enabling him to maintain a sense of fun and take his expertise lies in commercial and residential property and I really hectic schedule in his stride. do enjoy every aspect of what I do, from meeting new clients to “I started acting when I was at university and joined an amateur the unpredictability of each working day, and to me every case is dramatics group, which was great fun. I still indulge in a bit of approached in the same way – no matter how big or small it is. I acting every now and again but not as much as I used to. I think have such a diverse portfolio that one day I can be working with a performing must have also been in my blood because I was start-up, the next a major developer. We’re such a broad ranging in a choir too and appeared at the Sunderland Empire and the firm that there is no longer a ‘typical’ client so to speak. Millennium Dome. Even now I’m quite happy to stand up and make “While the last three years have proved testing, we have a fool of myself!” weathered the storm which has affected many of our competitors and it’s testament to our continued growth that we’ve recently ALTHOUGH MARTIN LEADS THE FIRM’S WYNYARD PRACTICE, HE committed to our Wynyard office until 2019.” now lives in Gosforth. The move was heavily influenced by his faith – Martin is an active member of the local Jewish community. MARTIN, WHO IS MARRIED AND HAS ONE DAUGHTER, ONE “Wanting my family to be fully immersed in a Jewish community son - who is also a solicitor - and four granddaughters, started out was the reason I left Hartlepool because the town didn’t really working for his father’s firm, initially as a solicitor then as a partner, have one. For years, we lived in Sunderland and my children went a job he did until he had a falling out with one of the senior to a Jewish school, but when that closed we moved to Gosforth partners, and was invited to join Tilly Bailey and Irvine. and have been here ever since” he said. The Hartlepool United season-ticket holder laughs as he recalls With a love of the outdoors, including gardening and the reason for the falling out. “It was because I used my initiative adventurous walks across the North East, it’s clear Martin has a and bought a fax machine. Can you believe that? The partner in fantastic balance and love of life in general. question was so shocked that I’d done it. He thought there was no In fact, as our chat comes to an end, he tells me that the three need for us to have one. I knew after that I couldn’t work there so I things most important to him are “...family, religion, and my waited until my father retired before joining Tilly Bailey and Irvine. profession.” And with two children and four grandchildren keeping And I’ve been here ever since. him busy, an active role within Newcastle’s Jewish community and “I love the job as much as when I first started out though there a legal career spanning four decades, it seems Martin has things are things I miss about the ‘good old days’. Back then you always pretty much as he wants them. W Winter 2011-12

Workspace.

are you

sitting

comfortably? OFTEN AN AFTERTHOUGHT, YOUR OFFICE CHAIR CAN SPEAK VOLUMES ABOUT YOUR WORKPLACE. WHETHER YOUR STYLE IS MINIMALIST OR TRADITIONAL, BOLD OR RESERVED, ICONIC OR INNOVATIVE, OUR TOP PICKS ARE SURE TO HIT THE MARK.

Above: Mademoiselle Missoni Chair, Kartell, £549, johnlewis.com

There are few everyday objects that tell the history of design as simply as the chair. Aesthetic trends, the emergence of new technologies, geometry, ergonomics and social and cultural developments are all reflected in the evolution of chair design. From Bertoia to Eames, Gray to Le Corbusier, Jacobsen to Knoll, modern chair design has evolved through the decades creating a legacy of cult, iconic designs and classic pieces of furniture that continue to be reproduced today. And in the office, while performing a practical function, the chair can make a real style statement, setting the tone and character of the workspace.

Left: Theselius,

Right: Fritz

Kallemo, £5,059, skandium.com Hansen Swan Chair, Utility, £1,912, utilitydesign.co.uk

LOVES

luxe for less...

Left: About Right:

a Chair, Hay, £330, madeindesign.co.uk Chair One, Magis, £498, utilitydesign.co.uk

£97 Dr. Yes Armchair, Kartell, madeindesign.co.uk

£229 Left: Supporto

Chair, Frederick Scott, from £815, supporto.co.uk Right: Flow Armchair, MDF Italia, £986, leighharmer.co.uk

Curved Padded Office Chair, Dwell, dwell.co.uk

£149

Orbit Chair in Anthracite, John Lewis, johnlewis.com

Left:

Neoz Armchair, Driade, £1,200, madeindesign.co.uk Carbon Chair, Moooi, £556, leighharmer.co.uk

Right:

W Winter 2011-12

ENDURING love

AS THE NATION’S LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE BMW X5 INTENSIFIES, ELIZABETH EDDY WONDERS HOW THIS 4X4 CONTINUES TO SET THE BENCHMARK FOR ITS COMPETITORS? 74

highWay.

WELVE YEARS AGO, THE FIRST GENERATION X5 powered onto the scene and since its arrival it has been a dominant force in the luxury 4x4 market, successfully competing against its Audi, Land Rover and Range Rover counterparts. So how has it retained its place at the top of the off-road SUV tree? WHILE ITS APPEARANCE HASN’T CHANGED dramatically – why fix something that isn’t broken – the M Sport model I drove is somewhat longer, accounting for the two additional seats located in the boot that enable it to compete on a practical level with the Land Rover Discovery and the Volvo XC90. However, the technology at the core of the X5 has evolved significantly. It has always been able to manoeuvre with ease between the worlds of motorways and winding lanes across rugged landscapes. Now the M Sport has helped the X5 to bulk up with a more muscular front end and broader rear, which

and low emissions are not necessarily mutually exclusive. THE M SPORT ALSO BRINGS THE OUTSIDE world into the car through Connected Drive, which BMW labels ‘intelligent networking of driver, car and the environment’ but which when translated simply means that you can connect and stay in touch with your world while driving. As the IT revolution has changed the way we live, it’s only natural to expect to be able to access information on the road. So, through Connected Drive I can access real time traffic information, sync my iPhone applications to the control display, giving me access to my Twitter and Facebook accounts and there’s surround, side, top and rear view cameras for enhanced visibility. Plus, the innovative Head-Up display projects key information such as vehicle speed and the navigation system directions onto the windscreen, which once you’re used to it helps you concentrate

It’s clever from a technical standpoint and now marries the practical with the fun... exude an air of readiness more fully on the to tackle any terrain. road ahead. And, although it’s bigger, The more I drove there is a real sense of the car, the more elegance and refinement I felt that there is behind the wheel. The simply no other sport suspension ensures big SUV that goes, poise and the lightweight steers, stops or turns engineering and even half as well aerodynamic body styling as this. It corners reduce drag, allowing beautifully but for a more responsive you’re safe in the drive which makes you knowledge that the The interior features the M leather feel fully involved in the traction control is steering wheel – tactile, light and sporty. driving experience. While primed and ready to the accelerator response is excellent the ride step in to stop you having too much fun. After a is smooth and you don’t get the feeling you’re while I began to genuinely believe the hype: this driving a seven seater vehicle. Adding to the is a vehicle where ‘athleticism meets aesthetics’. sense of sport, each outer component – bumpers, wheel arch trims, sills and rubbing strips - are SO WILL THIS NEW GENERATION MODEL matched to the body colour and offset against ensure the loyal love affair with the X5 lasts 20” strident wheels and Xenon headlights with another 12 years and engage a new generation daytime running lights. Inside, the electric sports of 4x4 drivers? Well, like the original, it’s clever seats upholstered in soft Nevada leather are from a technical standpoint and now marries complemented by the M leather steering wheel the practical with the fun. It unites the style and and anthracite roof lining. comfort of a luxury saloon with the dynamic drive Yet, the real driving force at the heart of the of an SUV. And, it still commands attention thanks new generation X5 is the BMW EfficientDynamics to its sleek, stunning and imposing nature. But I technology, which combines a new diesel can’t help feeling that following the launch of the engine with standard eight-speed automatic new Range Rover Evoque, the continued appeal of transmission to give the best possible drive while the Q5 and Q7 and the growing popularity of the minimising its environmental impact. And, due X6, the X5 is going to have to bring a little more to to the latest high precision direct injection this the table when its next model is unveiled. model has extraordinarily low fuel consumption for a 4x4, clearly demonstrating that a powerful For more information contact Cooper Teesside on and responsive drive, reduced fuel consumption 0845 128 6409 or visit cooperteessidebmw.co.uk

HOW DOES THE BMW X5 COMPARE TO THE COMPETITION? BMW X5 XDRIVE30 SUV M SPORT

On the road price from: £53,255 Engine: 3 litre diesel producing 242bhp Transmission: Eight-speed automatic Performance: 0 – 62mph in 7.6 seconds, top speed 130mph Economy: Combined 38.2mpg CO2 rating: 195g/km Road tax band: J - £245 Insurance group: 43

AUDI Q7 SUV QUATTRO S LINE

On the road price from: £45,620 Engine: 3 litre diesel producing 237bhp Transmission: Automatic Performance: 0 – 62mph in 7.9 seconds, top speed 135mph Economy: Combined 38.2mpg CO2 rating: 195g/km Road tax band: J - £245 Insurance group: 43 RANGE ROVER SPORT SUV HSE

On the road price from: £55,185 Engine: 3 litre diesel producing 242bhp Transmission: Automatic Performance: 0 – 62mph in 9.3 seconds, top speed 124mph Economy: Combined 30.7mpg CO2 rating: 243g/km Road tax band: L - £245 Insurance group: 43

W Winter 2011-12

TREVOR CARTNER IS UNASSUMING AND MODEST, YET HE IS ONE OF THE NORTH EAST’S MOST SUCCESSFUL COMMERCIAL PROPERTY DEVELOPERS, WITH SITES IN ABU DHABI, ZAGREB AND RIGHT HERE IN WYNYARD.

Jensen Interceptor S. The rare British car – it’s one of only 12 produced this year – is Trevor’s favourite and was manufactured to his exact specification. “I’ve always loved cars and while the Italian models I have are great, I wanted to find something more distinguished and distinctive, a quintessentially British car and the Jensen ticked every box. It’s iconic and classic, yet it’s still an exciting drive too, which is the most important thing for me.” Classic cars aside, we settle into the snug and begin to unpick Trevor’s illustrious career. A chartered surveyor, Trevor qualified at University College Salford in 1984 while working at John Laing Construction. He then worked for loss adjusting company, Graham Miller Sibilia in Newcastle before joining BT Newton and Company where he oversaw the delivery of a number of commercial development schemes worth an impressive £150 million. In 1991, Trevor was keen to venture into the development market under his own steam and launched Fifth Avenue Properties. Located in Newcastle and with Trevor at the helm, the company delivered many large and high profile developments in the region, before merging with Helios in 1997. Trevor is now chairman of the Helios Group, which was established in 1999 and is responsible for the company’s strategic vision.

SINCE TREVOR BECAME CHAIRMAN, HELIOS HAS SIMPLIFIED ITS market proposition, reducing its portfolio of developments from twelve to just four. However, the four that remain are of a significant calibre and scale. “Rather than continuing to manage a broad and diverse range of projects, we made a strategic decision around four years ago to consolidate our portfolio and focus purely on large, high ELIZABETH EDDY CAUGHT UP WITH THE BUSINESSMAN profile developments, as this is where our expertise truly lies. The OVER LUNCH TO TALK ABOUT A VERY PERSONAL change in tack has enabled us to focus more closely on delivering DEVELOPMENT AND HIS BIG PLANS FOR THE REGION. the highest possible quality of development and introduce more innovative concepts and initiatives.” Currently, Helios developments REVOR AND I ARRANGED include the International Tower in to meet at the legendary Capital Centre, Abu Dhabi, which Cleveland Tontine. With comprises 444,000 sq ft of luxury its fabulous grade I listed office accommodation; Zagreb ceiling, eclectic mix Logistics Park in the Balkans region of antiques, vintage objets d’art and comprising 1,044,000 sq ft of candle-lit tables, the bistro has a unique warehouse and office facilities; atmosphere even during the day. I’m Waterfront Quarter, a six acre mixed hoping that the venue will prove a hit use development in Huddersfield and with Trevor as he travels so frequently the 850 acre Wynyard Park in the with work that I want him to him North East. And it is the development relax and unwind while he shares his on his home ground that he speaks entrepreneurial story. most fervently about. As the minutes pass and there’s “Wynyard Park represents a unique still no sign, I start to wonder if he is opportunity in terms of development. struggling to find the bistro or that Faced with 850 acres, it has at times perhaps we’ve confused the date and been a daunting proposition but time of our lunch. But just as I am once the business park began to take about to call, he arrives, apologising shape it was easy to see just how for running late but noting that he was phenomenal the overall development waiting on a call that came through would be once it became a mixed just as he was leaving, but which has use site.” The prestigious business made his week. A new business deal park now comprises 750,000 sq ft I enquire? Well not quite. “I’ve just of luxury office accommodation and bought a vintage Porsche to add to my warehouse facilities and is home to collection” he enthuses. Classic cars companies including Huntsman, AMEC, are a passion for Trevor and along with NFU Mutual, Glamal Engineering and He speaks fervently about Wynyard Park: “...it was easy seven Porches, most notably 911s, he to see just how phenomenal the overall development SEMTA as well as countless other would be once it became a mixed used site.” also has an Alfa Romeo Duetto and a smaller, niche businesses.

Working lunch.

I love coming home. There are some great opportunities to be unearthed in the region and I hope that Wynyard Park will act as a catalyst for further regeneration across Hartlepool and Stockton...

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Working lunch. Over the next decade, Wynyard Park will become the North’s leading mixed use community and I am proud that a development of this scale and quality is taking shape in the North East, where I grew up and live to this day. That it is entirely supported by private investment is testament to our vision and belief that the region is one of the best places to live and work... Trevor is chairman of Wynyard Park while Chris Musgrave, his joint venture partner, is Chief Executive. Together they plan to transform the rest of the site into a luxury sustainable community featuring executive homes, a hospital, a medical village, retail outlets and leisure facilities, while adding to the business park with further office accommodation and a purpose built conference and training centre. With outline planning approval for the development of over 200 homes granted not long after we had met for lunch and news that Redhouse Independent School is relocating to Wynyard Park, Trevor and his team will be busy finalising plans for what’s sure to be an outstanding residential development if the business park is used as a benchmark. “Over the next decade, Wynyard Park will become the North’s leading mixed use community and I am proud that a development of this scale and quality is taking shape in the North East, where I grew up and live to this day. That it is entirely supported by private investment is testament to our vision and belief that the region is one of the best places to live and work.” BORN AND BRED IN DURHAM – TREVOR STILL LIVES THERE NOW with his wife and two daughters – the 51 year old clearly loves the North East and his cherished Sunderland AFC. Although he grimaces somewhat at the mention of the team’s recent form especially as Newcastle United are enjoying an exceptional and unprecedented run, which sees them sitting comfortably and a little smugly in the top four of the table when we meet. “The North East will always be home to me and although I travel extensively for work, to and from our offices in Leeds and London and then out to each of our developments, I love coming home. There are some great opportunities to be unearthed in

We met Trevor for lunch at the Cleveland Tontine where he shared his entrepreneurial journey and talked of his passion for the region and his classic car collection. the region and I hope that Wynyard Park will act as a catalyst for further regeneration across Hartlepool and Stockton while also acting as a model of best practice for future developments of this scale. We have a chance to put the region firmly back on the map and for something other than our heritage industries of steel and manufacturing, so inevitably there is a sense of immense pressure and responsibility, but I intend to work with my team to ensure the vision is fully realised.”

Trevor Cartner was interviewed at The Cleveland Tontine... The Cleveland Tontine, Staddlebridge, Northallerton, DL6 3JB. 01609 882671 theclevelandtontine.co.uk

Starter - £9.50

Starter - £8.50

Main Course - £15.00

Main Course - £13.75

French black pudding in 3 styles.

Crispy spiced baby squid, herb mayonnaise and petite salad.

Roast Chicken with polenta, truffled cream and Enoki salad.

Fish pie with pommery mash and spinach.

netWorking. To make sure you don’t miss out, we’ve compiled a calendar of the most exclusive events for both business and pleasure... 1 December

6 January

21 February

ENTREPRENEURS’ FORUM MASTERING CHALLENGES Location: Copthorne Hotel, Newcastle Cost: £15+VAT for members and £50+VAT for non-members entrepreneursforum.net

NLP MASTER PRACTITIONER TRAINING & CERTIFICATION Location: South Gosforth Cost: £1,800 the-me-group.com

ENTREPRENEURS’ FORUM: AN EVENING WITH MALCOLM WILSON OBE Location: Brewin Dolphin Offices, Newcastle Cost: Free for members and £50+VAT for non-members entrepreneursforum.net

HOOKER & YOUNG INVITE YOU TO INDULGE IN THE SEVEN DEADLY SINS Location: The Wynyard Rooms Cost: £15 per ticket thewynyardrooms.com

18 January – 25 May LEADING THE WAY WITH IT – A LEADERSHIP PROGRAMME FOR IT’S TOP TALENT Location: Evolve, Houghton-le-Spring Cost: £2,000 leadandtransformit.com

6 December

27 January

NETWORKING LUNCH WITH FOSTER WHEELER Location: Hardwick Hall Hotel, Sedgefield Cost: £45+VAT for members and £85+VAT for non-members nofenergy.co.uk/events

BOLLYWOOD EXTRAVAGANZA

1 December

7 December TEESSIDE UNIVERSITY’S’ MURDER ON THE TRANS-MEDIA EXPRESS Location: Teesside University, Darlington Campus Cost: Free tees.ac.uk

Location: The Wynyard Rooms Cost: £35 per ticket fatema.ahmed@thewynyardrooms.com

3 February MAYOR OF STOCKTON BALL Location: The Wynyard Rooms linda.lawty@stockton.gov.uk

17 February SPORTSMAN’S DINNER Location: The Wynyard Rooms Cost: £45 per ticket jeff.hind@thewynyardrooms.com

WIN TICKETS Tiger Tiger in Newcastle is offering one W Lifestyle | Living | Business Magazine reader the chance to win a Lucky Voice VIP night with nine of their friends. The VIP night includes a champagne reception, Lucky Voice karaoke pod for two hours plus a £500 bar tab.

GIVEAWAY

BOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR BE INSPIRED by the extravagant culture of Mumbai and get a real taste of India and its infamously glamorous movie industry. Enjoy a drinks reception, three- course dinner, live entertainment and Bhangra music for £35 on 27 January. For tickets and information, please contact Fatema Ahmed 01740 661000 or e-mail fatema.ahmed@thewynyardrooms.com

To be in with a chance to WIN, simply answer this question: Who won the X Factor in 2010? Send your answer, along with your name, address and telephone number to jennifer@wmagazinene.co.uk. For more information about Lucky Voice at Tiger Tiger visit tigertiger-newcastle.co.uk/luckyvoice. *TERMS AND CONDITIONS: 1. Not valid in conjunction with any other offer. 2. Available to over 18s only who are living in the UK. 3. Only available for parties of between 6 and 10 people. 4. Prize is subject to availability. 5. Prize can only be redeemed outside of Happy Hour and post 9pm. 6. Prize cannot be exchanged for cash. 7. Prize must be claimed by 31 January 2012. 8. Additional terms and conditions apply.

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Who. What. Where. When. Why. W Lifestyle | Living | Business Magazine Launch, Wynyard Park House. To celebrate the launch of the North Eastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new luxury, aspirational magazine W Lifestyle | Living | Business at Wynyard Park House, MPs, special guests and the elite of the regional business community literally stepped into the magazine. Guests were welcomed by Wynyard Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s managing director Paul Barber and editor, Elizabeth Eddy before being entertained throughout the champagne reception by living models, live music and renowned magician Matthew Dowden.

the vieW.

The Thomas Russell Cancer Trust Fund Masquerade Charity Ball, Rainton Meadows Arena. Guests from across the region came together to raise funds for the Thomas Russell Cancer Trust Fund, the charitable association created in the name of local six-year-old, Thomas Russell, to raise funds for the hospital that successfully treated his exceptionally rare form of cancer. The masked ball was also designed to celebrate the charityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s achievement in raising over ÂŁ60,000 in the last five years.

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the vieW.

NHS Shining Stars Awards, Wynyard Rooms. At an event sponsored by a number of generous organisations, the NHS held its first award ceremony at Wynyard Rooms, to recognise and acknowledge the work of its staff who go above and beyond the call of duty to help patients and volunteers.

the vieW.

Entrepreneurs’ Forum Spilling the Beans, Wynyard Park. Entrepreneur’s from across the region attended an interactive Q&A session with founder of the award-winning Cooper’s Coffee, David Cooper. During the event, David gave a no holds barred presentation on the trade, diversification and his tips to stay ahead of the game.

Calvert Ball, The Hilton NewcastleGateshead. This glittering black tie event raised over £36,000 for local disability charity, Calvert Trust Kielder. The annual event was held at the Hilton NewcastleGateshead, with over 230 people attending to enjoy an evening of top class entertainment.

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sWing etc.

don’t let the weather

BE YOUR HANDICAP

he mornings may be dark and the days short, but that doesn’t mean you have to retire your golf bag for the next five months until the first shoots of spring appear. As the air gets colder and the green increasingly firm and frosty, you may find yourself considering a golf break in warmer climes. But while often only the most dedicated attempt the green come December, there are many reasons why a game at this time of year can be just as enjoyable and rewarding. And more importantly if you just hit the odd ball every now and again, then by spring the timing and finesse of your swing will have all but disappeared. So, your golfing isn’t going to be at its best thanks to swing restrictions imposed by the many layers of clothing you’ve had to embrace and a general stiffness due to the wintry conditions. Yes, you’re likely to achieve less drive length because of cold golf balls and a lack of firm footing, but winter golf is less about the coveted ‘perfect game’ and more about keeping your hand in, taking some moderate exercise and simply making the most of your downtime no matter how short it may be. Plus, while you may have to wear an extra layer or two, the colder months mean extra savings on some of the best courses around. And, with many players steering clear of the greens, a round during winter

THREE OF THE BEST can be the most private game of all, giving you more time to practice your swing. And, if you happen to play a particularly bad round you can always put it down to the weather.

WHAT THE EXPERT SAYS: Before you attempt to beat the cold war on the green, make sure you are prepared to face the elements:

1 2 3 4 5

YOU LOSE the most body heat through your hands and head, so ensure they are well covered CHECK WEATHER conditions before you play to ensure you have the correct equipment IN COLDER atmosphere the ball flies less distance so ‘club up’ WINTER GOLF is harder due to challenging conditions, so enjoy yourself and forget about your summer game TO IMPROVE your summer game, practice in the winter or book some lessons

Kevin Jackson, head teaching professional, Ramside Hall ‘Winter Warmer’ green fees are £25 per person Monday to Thursday, and £30 Friday to Sunday. Enjoy tea, coffee and a bacon roll on arrival. All day golfers also have full use of the steam room/sauna, chipping green and putting green (1st November 2011 to 31 March 2012). To book call 0191 3869 514 or email jonny.mould@ramsidehallhotel.co.uk.

SWING GEAR 1. Hackett London Half Zip Wool Jumper: ‘Keep your temperature up and your movements fluid’ (£100, hackett.com) 2. Ronhill Pro Beanie: ‘The lightweight and breathable thermalite fabric will keep you warm’ (£14, ronhill.com) 3. Twilight Tracer: ‘You’ll never lose these golf balls in the snow’ (£9.99, firebox.com)

1. Praia Del Rey, Portugal: One of the most picturesque layouts in Europe; a stunning course in a top golfing country. 2. Golf De Sperone, France: Golf at its very best, this course is often named the ‘Pebble Beach of Europe’. 3. Fontana Golf Club, Vienna: Soak up the sun on this fun course, which is acknowledged as an international golfing venue.

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DO YOU WANT TO

GET MORE OUT OF YOUR WORK ENVIRONMENT?

WOULD YOU LIKE TO BE A PART OF

SOMETHING BIG, BELONG TO SOMETHING

SPECIAL? THEN THIS IS THE PLACE FOR YOU

WORK HERE? IT’S A WAY OF LIFE. For more information visit www.wynyardpark.com or call 01740 661000