Absolutely West Essex January 2024

WEST ESSEX

West Essex JANUARY 2024 / £3.95

JANUARY 2024

HEALTH & BEAUTY

Suit's

SPECIAL 20 pages of fitness tips and wellbeing advice

ABSOLUTELYMAGAZINES.COM

YOU

HOW ESSEX'S VIKKI STONE BECAME THEATRE'S HOTTEST WRITER

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PLUS JON RICHARDSON Why the comedian is supporting Haven House 10 FOR 2024 The best events to look forward to in Essex MAKE A WISH Joining The Dream Factory's latest fundraiser

ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGA NT 13/12/2023 12:21

S TAY I N B E D The ultimate luxury is taking time to unwind in a bed so comfortable that you never want to leave

Bed: Sandö I Headboard: Low Tornö I Fabric: Designers Guild Rothesay Pumice I Bed legs: Reling I Bed Linen: Vindstilla I Bedside table: Holme M A D E B ES P OK E W I T H FABRICS F ROM

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WINTER SALE NOW ON

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Our Winter Design Sale has begun, and you can save 15% off on a wide range of furniture and accessories to order, as well as up to 50% off on our premium ex-display items. We can help you make the most of your space with our free interior design service. You’ll receive a consultation in-store or at home, as well as 3D renderings of your space. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call or visit us in-store.

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EDITOR MARK KEBBLE ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SUZETTE SCOBLE MIDWEIGHT DESIGNER CARMEN GRAHAM JUNIOR DESIGNER JOE MUNSEY PRODUCTION MANAGER DANICA BRODIE GROUP SALES MANAGER - SOUTH ABIGAIL GARDNER MEDIA CONSULTANTS CELIA GREGORY, CLAIRE YATES FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries: please call 07862 004024 or email: celia@zest-media.com or please call 07861 994764 or email: claire@zest-media.com

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents JANUARY 2024

42

87 16

C U LT U R E AGENDA

Top comedians arrive in Essex for 2024 cheer

18

VIKKI STONE

The award-winning Saffron Walden writer

22

JON RICHARDSON

Why he supports Haven House Children's Hospice

57 HEALTH SPECIAL

Everything you need to start the new year feeling positive

INTERIORS 78 ST OSYTH PRIORY

The iconic Essex venue has been renovated – we take a closer look

FOOD & DRINK 34 KINTSU

83 ORIGIN

39 TALBOOTH RESTAURANT

87 REAL HOME

FA S H I O N & B E AU T Y 42 THE SHOOT

E D U C AT I O N 90 TALKING HEAD

47 JEWELLERY

95 PLAY INCLUDED

Visiting Colchester's hottest restaurant

Reviewing a very special menu

A bright start to 2024 in Chelmsford

Nine of the best engagement rings

34

Why building an indoor pool at home is win, win

A B S O L U T E LY M AG A Z I N E S .C O M The online guides to inspirational living and what's on in Essex

A unique project in Roxwell

At Woodford Green Prep School

The educational joy in Lego

O N T H E C OV E R Vikki Stone

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YEARS 4

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Editor’s

LETTER ABSOLUTELY’S January issue highlights

I

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am a huge fan Meet the Richardsons, the 'mockumentary' on Dave that follows the lives of comedians, Jon Richardson and Lucy Beaumont (husband and wife in case you are not up to speed with them).

I love Jon, probably because he's the mirror image of me. He doesn't particularly like going out, is very pessimistic of the world, and isn't overly keen on strangers touching him.

My own wife doesn't think it's a good thing to boast about the similarities, but I counter that with the 'real' Jon that we cover this month.

Haven House Children's Hospice has been regularly featured within these pages, and this month Jon tells us why he's such a big supporter of their work and what's in store when he holds a special gig to fundraise for them on 1 February.

We have also featured The Dream Factory, another fantastic Essex charity, this month, which is my way of showing no matter how tough things seem, how bleak the world may be, there are some truly inspirational people out there who will put a new spin on life.

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Health Special

How to start a new year happy (p66)

4

Trend

The products to brighten up any home this January (p85)

MARK KEBBLE EDITOR

Weddings

Why Braxted Park is a special place to tie the knot (p50)

Jon Richardson

The comedian on supporting Haven House (p22)

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2024 Preview

The people and places not to miss this year (p24)

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Wish LIST

EDITOR’S PICK

10 things we Absolutely love

M AT E R I A L GIRL Ahluwalia's Rosie ruffle top showcases the brand ’s innovative approach to reusing surplus material, £470. ahluwalia.world

SHINE ON Mach & Mach’s new collection is an ode to the undersea world, inhabited by mermaids and tritons, a romantic fairytale against the backdrop of breathtaking panoramas, filled with pearl-making oysters, striking corals and iridescent sunlight. brownsfashion.com

GRAPE NEWS These pink wine glasses from Maison Balzac are adorned with bunches of grapes, just as a reminder, £150. koibird.com

ALL THE TRIMMINGS With their detachable ostrich feather trim, these handcrafted party pyjamas are super versatile, £245. libertylondon.com

COMPILED BY

PENDLE HARTE

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ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

ON THE NAIL Palette has launched four brand new vegan, strengthening nail paints in dusky hues that strengthen your nails as you wear, supercharged with botanical ingredients, and are also free from 21 common, harmful nail polish ingredients. palettelondon.com

D AT E N I G H T What's more stylish than a Smythson desk diary? A Smythson desk diary in peony pink, of course.

We're choosing the large format Portobello version, £240. smythson.com

ROSE TINT Bold and square, Monc’s limited edition Chiltern specs will have you seeing clearly in 2024, £280. monclondon.com

PINK PA R T Y

P I N K L A DY The Prima Donna twist balcony bra has allover lace in a floral pattern and comes in the brightest pink you could dream of. ameliesfollies.co.uk

Grind has teamed up with Our Place to launch the ultimate breakfast combo: a signature pink tin of coffee and a pink mini Always Pan, £115. grind.co.uk

IN THE SHADE The Adidas Originals eyewear collection marks an intersection of sport and street style seen through the lens of culture. £129 specsavers.co.uk

B E A R COSY Love pink? Love polar bears?

You need Aspiga's stylish jumper made from sustainable merino wool, £155. aspiga.com

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Rosy cheeks and great big smiles.

Just some of the amazing things we grow here in winter.

THE G R E AT E ST S H OW IN EARTH L I V E AT H Y D E H A L L

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C U LT U R E

WO N K A 2-7 JANUARY ELECTRIC PALACE CINEMA

This Harwich cinema is over 100-years-old and an atmospheric setting for all the latest films. Given how bleak January can be, the first week of 2024 will see the colourful world of Wonka coming to the cinema. Willy Wonka – choc-full of ideas and determined to change the world one delectable bite at a time – is proof that the best things in life begin with a dream. And if you’re lucky enough to meet Willy Wonka, anything is possible. electricpalace.com

Agenda 16 • Vikki Stone 18 • Jon Richardson 22 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

JA N UA RY ' S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S EV E N T

Miles Jupp

29 January C I V I C T H E AT R E , C H E L M S F O R D Since Miles Jupp’s last tour finished at The London Palladium in 2017, he’s been in The Full Monty on Disney Plus, The Durrells and Why Didn’t They Ask Evans? on ITV. Yet one sunny day, in the middle of all this, he suddenly suffered a brain seizure. This led to the discovery of a tumour the size of a cherry tomato, and a rather pressing need to undergo major neurosurgery. The experience has left him with a story to tell and a few things that he’d like to share. milesjupp.co.uk

ART

So for Southend

ICE BED BY NIMA SARIKHANI, UK

P H OTO G R A P H Y

24 January-9 March FOCAL POINT GALLERY Focal Point Gallery’s community exhibition S for Southend is back, showcasing artworks made by local residents and artists of all ages during 2023. They are delighted to share works made by participants across their learning programme and in collaboration with local organisations and charities to champion the abundant creativity in Southend. fpg.org.uk

Wildlife Photographer U NTI L 3 0 JU NE . NATU RA L H I STORY MUSEUM

More than 50,000 images are entered into the Wildlife Photographer of the Year competition every year, but their panel of judges can only select 100 finalists. A further 25 memorable images from this year’s entries have been shortlisted by the judges and the Natural History Museum and now the public are invited to vote for their favourite. Voting closes on 31 January 2024. nhm.ac.uk

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CULTURE • DIARY

MU S I C

Celine

27 January CHARTER HALL Colchester Events is delighted to announce that Charter Hall will launch the 2024 UK tour of ‘Celine – My Heart Will Go On’ after a sold-out tour across the UK and Europe in 2023. The hit stage show comes to Charter Hall, playing the busy Colchester venue 30 years to the day since The Power of Love was certified Gold on the UK singles chart. The production stars Alexandra Darby – as seen on ITV’s This Morning – backed by a talented live band. colchester-events.co.uk

Head to the capital for the finest in art from our doorstep to around the world

London Art Fair 2023 Photo by Mark Cocksedge

The London Art Fair returns from 17-21 January 2024, highlighting a selection of the best galleries from the UK and beyond. The fair will offer both seasoned and aspiring collectors a diverse presentation of modern and contemporary art, alongside curated displays, and an inspiring programme of talks, tours and performances.

In addition, London Art Fair continues to champion and support regional museums through its annual Museum Partnership, which this year invites Charleston, once home to the 20th century’s most pioneering artists, writers and thinkers, to showcase their unique collection of art, textiles and ceramics at the fair.

This year will see the participation of over 120 galleries from around the

CO M E DY

SIMON BRODKIN 19 JANUARY PA L A C E T H E AT R E Join the world-famous prankster, Lee Nelson creator and now the most viewed British stand-up comedian on TikTok, Simon Brodkin. In ‘Screwed Up’, Simon rips into celebrity culture, social media, the police, Putin and Prince Andrew. Nothing is off limits in this hilarious show, including his own mental health, his family, his five arrests and how he once found himself at an underground sex party. trafalgartickets.com

This Month’s Must See

Best in SHOW

CLAIRE CANSICK

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U N TIL 14 APRIL , FIRSTSITE

hat effect do we have on the landscapes around us? Claire Cansick’s You and I Are Earth charts the devastating effects of climate change and the human impact on the environment across the world. Featuring over 40 paintings, the exhibition depicts a spectrum of climate-related catastrophes, including wildfires, floods, droughts, historic storms, snowfall, war, deforestation, erosion, the proliferation of tornadoes, and the alarming warming of the Arctic. firstsite.uk

Pauline Marcelle, Take My Picture, 2023.

Courtesy of Common Sense Gallery

world, including Japan, Portugal and Turkey, with new exhibitors Bluerider Art, Stowe Arthouse Gallery, and Liss Llewellyn; alongside returning names such as Gilden’s Art Gallery, Jill George Gallery and Jonathan Clarke. The fair will feature work by some of the world’s most renowned artists working across a variety of media, including sculpture, prints, paintings, photography and ceramics, from artists including Francis Bacon, Andy Warhol, and David Hockney. londonartfair.co.uk

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“There are so many jokes not directed at the threeyear-olds watching it”

That's

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CULTURE • INTERVIEW

Former stand-up comedian Vikki Stone talks life in Saffron Walden, the secrets to keeping toddlers happy and why panto shouldn’t be looked down upon

By REBECCA PITCAIRN

I

f you ask most parents of toddlers what television shows their kids enjoy the most, HEY DUGGEE is bound to come high up on the list. I know from experience that not a day goes by without the word ‘Duggee’ leaving my 20-month-old’s lips multiple times.

So, when the popular CBeebies series was transformed into a stage show, it was somewhat guaranteed it would go down well with family audiences. What wasn’t perhaps so predictable, however, was that the production, which toured theatres in England last year following a run at London’s Festival Hall, would impress industry critics so much that it would be awarded an Olivier.

“Let’s be honest, this is the category that will probably be cut from the television highlights, but children’s theatre is really important,” said Saffron Walden’s Vikki Stone in her 2023 Olivier Awards night acceptance speech.

Vikki, 38, co-wrote, adapted and provided musical supervision for the theatre production, which sees Duggee and his friends come to life through extraordinary puppetry and storytelling. But, prior to being approached by renowned theatre producer Kenny Wax to work on the show, she had no idea who the loveable character, Duggee, was.

“I don't have children and I’d never heard of the show. So, the very first thing I did was watch all of the episodes in the space of a week

– and there are 240 of them,” Vikki tells me.

While many parents may recoil in horror at the prospect of watching back-to-back kids TV for seven days running, the genre of family co-viewing is a growing trend. Just last year a global study by Kids Industries identified a significant rise in parents co-viewing media with children, with 47% prioritising content that can be watched together.

“It’s the genre I’m really into – shows that entertain the whole family – and HEY DUGGEE fits that so well. There are so many jokes and references in there that are not directed at the one- to three-year-olds watching it, and that makes it all the more entertaining and delightful,” explains Vikki, adding that the show was particularly sophisticated musically, with nods to many different genres.

“There’s one song called The Stick Song, which is everybody’s favourite and has an old school rave vibe. It turns the auditorium into a bit of a toddler mosh pit and we do a light show that goes along with it that is probably one of the best pieces of theatrical lighting in a show for that age group. That was one of the things that I think made the show stand out at the Oliviers.

It’s a kids’ show yet it had all the spectacle and technical stuff that you get in a normal West End show, which I think makes it really special.”

While Vikki is currently carving out a niche in family theatre (she also wrote three shows for the 2023/2024 panto season, but more

A INMENT

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Saffron Walden according to Mrs Stone

on that later), she’s also been a stand-up comedian and started her career in classical music having played flute as a child and attended the National Children’s Orchestra, followed by the Royal Academy of Music.

“I call myself a lapsed comedian. I did stand up for just over 10 years and I really enjoyed it, but it’s quite a lonely life,” she admits. “Especially when you’re touring like I did, you’d be in a car on your own, travelling from venue to venue and you’re always on your own. There’s no camaraderie.”

As a composer, Vikki’s classical works have included The Thing That Matters, a massed choral piece commissioned by the National Youth Choir of Great Britain, and The Concerto for Comedian and Orchestra, which premiered at Glastonbury Festival in 2017.

In 2022, Vikki made history when she became the first on-screen female musical director of a primetime entertainment show in the UK when working as musical director, pianist and band leader of the Saturday night ITV show, Romeo and Duet.

But Vikki has become renowned for her work in – and passion for – pantomime. Her script for Aladdin at the Lyric Hammersmith 2021/2022 won a British Panto Award, and for the 2023/2024 season, she has written scripts for two London pantomimes: Cinderella at the Lyric Hammersmith and Dick Whittington at the New Wolsey Ipswich, as well as creating the music and lyrics for a new version of the play, Peter Pan, at Rose Theatre Kingston.

“Pantomime is such an important part of British culture, they’re on in every village, every town, every city,” says Vikki, who is regularly referred to as the ‘Panto Queen’.

“But I get a bit frustrated because it’s an art

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form that the industry, the theatre industry particularly, are quite snobby about. But the reality is pantomimes are the biggest earners for most theatres and are crucial for the financial health of the industry as a whole.

So, there’s a lot of pressure as a writer – the panto has to do well to essentially fund the theatre being open for the rest of the year.”

Having moved to Essex from London three years ago, Vikki has been enjoying watching productions at the county’s theatres, such as The Mercury in Colchester, and has quickly settled into local life in Saffron Walden with her husband, the drummer, Ric Elsworth, and Cocker Spaniel, Bert.

“I love the community aspect of Saffron Walden, there are lots of independent shops and there’s a real sense of community,” she says. “While it’s sleepier than London, it’s constantly changing and there’s some really cool stuff popping up.

“It would be great to do some work here in Essex. I have been chatting to The Mercury, so you’ll have to watch this space.”

There is a cool restaurant, called Chater’s, which has got that warehouse vibe, which you wouldn’t expect in Saffron Walden. It got a really good Guardian review by Grace Dent, so now you can’t get in because everyone is travelling from further afield to go there.

• I’m not much of a craft beer fan, but my husband is, so we end up spending a fair bit of time in a little craft beer shop called Dead Time. We take our Cocker Spaniel, Bert, and tend to sit there on a Sunday afternoon.

• One of the things I love about where I live is there is a huge number of walks literally just out the door, so we don’t have to drive anywhere.

When we bought the house, the previous owners left a book all about walks in and around our village so at weekends we’ll do one of those and usually end up in a pub.

VIKKI MOVED TO SAFFRON WALDEN THREE YEARS AGO

SAFFRON WALDEN OFFERS PLENTY OF QUIET ESCAPES

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JON WITH THE INSPIRATIONAL ANNABELLE

Q When did you first come across

the work of Haven House?

A It was back in 2019 when I saw a Tweet that

one of the hospice’s retail stores had been broken into. I reached out to Haven House to offer my support and to see if I could help get the store back on its feet. Since then, I’ve gone on to support the hospice with comedy nights and been a hospice ambassador.

Q Why were you keen to support them?

A I am always keen to support any hospice. I

GET TO KNOW…

Jon Richardson STA R O F M E E T T H E R I C H A R D S O N S A LO N G S I D E H I S W I F E , LU CY, A N D O F C O U N T L E S S S H OW S O N H I S S U P P O R T F O R H AV E N H O U S E C H I L D R E N ’ S H O S P I C E

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think there is a misconception that they are sad places that only deal with end-oflife care, but they are life giving essentials for many children, young people and adults with life limiting conditions. I met a young lady called Annabelle at an event who was being supported by the Haven House team and loved her immediately. She made me want to redouble my efforts to help raise some money so that the staff there can do their incredible work.

Q What can we expect at your gig

on 1 February, which will raise money for Haven House?

A Jokes! A night that will make you feel better in a world that sometimes seems difficult to bear. I’ll leave it to the big tele events to mix the funny bits with sad videos and appeals for more money – we’ll just be doing loads and loads of funny stuff. I believe these nights always work best when they are

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CULTURE • PROFILE • XXXXX XXXXXXXX

JO BRAND WILL BE APPEARING AT THE SPECIAL GIG

JON WITH RUDY AND FAMILY

“Hospices are life giving essentials for so many” straightforward. Once the audience are in the room then they have done the hard work, the money is in the pot, so they will be rewarded with as many laughs as we can give them.

the event. It’s a phenomenal line-up with Josh Widdecombe, Jo Brand, Fatiha El-Ghorri, Joel Dommett and Lindsay Santoro. I might pull out another surprise on the night – who knows?

Q Who are your ‘friends’ due

Q Does the gig feel different when you

A Good use of inverted commas! I’ve been

A It’s different because the atmosphere in the

to appear on the night?

asked by their lawyers to make clear that they are not all my friends, and they are not obliged to socialise with me before or after

are raising money for charity?

room is always better when, as well as having fun, you are doing it for a good cause. There will be staff and families from the hospice there on the night, which makes it even more special.

Q I saw you on stage in 2023 and you

were brilliant. Can you sum up the feeling you get when you are on stage?

A Thank you for coming! I’m aware that I’m supposed to say I only really feel at home on stage and once I’m performing I relax and try to have a good time, but the truth is I get incredibly stressed, hyper focused on stage and spend the whole time worrying that I’ll forget something or let people down. If it has gone well I enjoy it afterwards with a whisky in the hotel, but only once the audience are happy and home safely!

Q Is every gig different?

A Absolutely! It’s what makes the job so

addictive. Every gig is a unique result of the make-up of the audience, the room the gig is in, the time of year, the news stories happening at that time, the weather and so many other things not to mention your

JOSH WIDDICOMBE IS ALSO ON THE LINE UP

own mood and energy levels. It could send you mad if you thought about it too much.

Q We like to think we know you now

thanks to Meet the Richardsons – how much of that is scripted?

A Even the scripted elements have their base in real events so it’s impossible to say really. I don’t expect audiences to work out what’s real and what isn’t given that sometimes Lucy will swear blind she has discussed something with me when in reality all she’s done is sit in her office and write a scene in which we have a conversation about it. It’s best to let it all wash over you, but just understand the constant stress I live under!

Q What’s the best thing about

making TV shows with Lucy?

A The money! Failing that the number of

couples who come up to us when we’re out and proudly tell us which of them is me and which is Lucy. We made a decision when we started making the show never to show a saccharine version of our marriage where everything is happy and we always get on. Maybe we’ve gone too far the other way, but the tension is always where the humour lies and I’m glad Lucy and I agree on that if nothing else!

Book your tickets for the Comedy Night on February 1 2024 in aid of Haven House at havenhouse.org.uk/ Event/lol-with-jon-richardson A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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YEAR TO

remember Ten 2024 Essex events to mark in your calendar right now

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• AREA• FOCUS CULTURE XXXXXXXX XXXXX CLACTON AIRSHOW

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mbrace historical traditions, thrive in the outdoors, unleash your competitive side or simply experience your favourite Essex pastimes with family and friends: here is Absolutely’s big 2024 preview, with a little help from the county’s tourist board, Visit Essex.

HIT FOR SIX This new year marks the 250th anniversary of Harlow Cricket Club. Harlow Museum & Walled Gardens will be celebrating the past 25 decades in an exhibition that will showcase the history of the oldest organisation in the Essex town. Expect photographs, artefacts, and archives from throughout the years. The exhibition will be run alongside events at the Harlow Cricket Club (27 April-31 August).

YOUR GARDEN MADE PERFECT Returning to the stunning grounds of Hyland’s House & Estate in Chelmsford is the National Flower Show. Ideal for gardening enthusiasts and homeowners alike, this three-day gardening extravaganza celebrates the very best of homes and gardens. Featuring thousands of plants, as well as gardening accessories, floral inspiration, gifts, food, drink and more, the

MALDON MUD RACE

“Since 1974, competitors have been negotiating the 200 metres of mud across the River Blackwater” National Flower Show 2024 is the perfect day out for all the family, including your well behaved four-legged friends (17-19 May).

Chelmsford, Uttlesford and Braintree.

Events will be popping up along the route for spectators to enjoy (24-26 May).

EXPERIENCE THE WORLD’S GREATEST CYCLING FESTIVAL

THE MUD-SEE EVENT OF 2024

Held over three days on the last bank holiday weekend of May, Ford RideLondon-Essex features a series of rides and events that give everyone, regardless of age, ability or background, the chance to take part.

The cycling takes place on routes both in the capital and passes through a number of Essex’s districts including Epping,

RIDE ESSEX

Taking place on 2 June, fundraising competitors from across the county and afar will face Maldon’s unique Mud Race – many in fancy dress to add to the fun! Since 1974, competitors have been negotiating the 200 metres of mud across the famous muddy bed of the River Blackwater to the other side of the river at Heybridge, before heading back to Maldon’s Promenade Park – today it has become a popular local tradition. Soak up the atmosphere and enjoy entertainment, DJs and artisan food and drink stalls (2 June, free to spectate).

A TIMELESS MUSICAL EXPERIENCE Celebrations will take place throughout July to honour the 150th anniversary of the birth of Gustav Holst. Holst founded the Thaxted Festival in 1916 and today it remains a popular event with visitors from across the world. Taking place in the historic Thaxted Parish Church, located in one of the most beautiful small towns in East Anglia, Thaxted Festival offers the highest standards of performance from renowned professional artists. Enjoy chamber, orchestral music, soloists, choral works, piano, jazz, organ and more. Whether you are attending a single performance or making a weekend of it, the superb natural acoustics of Thaxted Church and beautiful A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • AREA FOCUS

THAXTED VILLAGE, COURTESY OF UTTLESFORD DISTRICT COUNCIL

HARWICH MARITIME MUSEUM

historic surroundings make this a timeless musical experience (21 June-14 July).

COME AND CLAIM THE BACON Every four years a Judge and Jury of six beautiful maidens and six bachelors from the rural parish of Dunmow award a flitch of bacon to married couples who prove that in “twelvemonth and a day” they have “not wish’t themselves unmarried again”. This local tradition dates back to at least the 14th century, but today visitors can watch proceedings by purchasing timed tickets for this entertaining cross-examination of couples in the “dock”. Winning couples are paraded through the streets atop a ceremonial oak chair with their flitch of bacon before kneeling in the marketplace and swearing the Flitch Oath. Make a day of it and enjoy the adjoining fete (applications close 14 February, Flitch Trials 13 July).

EYES ON THE SKIES The Clacton Airshow is back for 2024.

Flying into its 31st year, this free two-day

event will feature thrilling aerobatics, historic aircraft and spectacular twilight displays. Taking place over the August bank holiday, on the seafront at Clactonon-Sea in Essex, the airshow’s jam-packed programme is not to be missed. Aside from the must-see flying displays, you can also enjoy a host of ground exhibits, food vendors and entertainment. So, if you have been looking for the perfect excuse to visit Essex’s sunshine coast, then now’s your chance. The Clacton Airshow promises to be a great day out (22-23 August, free entry).

THE MEMORABLE SOUND OF SHANTIES The small maritime town of Harwich will once again come alive with colour, music and song as the renowned International Shanty Festival returns for 2024. Grab a real ale from one of the many cosy pubs and join in with singing songs of the sea, listen to musicians along the Quay or take a barge trip along the river with on board entertainment by some of the best shanty singers from all over the world. Not to mention shanty trains, pirates, street theatre and historical reenactments. Most of the entertainment is free, but there are also ticketed concerts, workshops, and barge trips you can pre-book. Accommodation in the town gets full very quickly so be sure to book as soon as possible (11-13 October).

DISCOVER ESSEX DAY

HYLANDS HOUSE PHOTO MATT CHUNG

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St Cedd, Essex’s very own Patron Saint, is remembered by the Church of England with his own commemoration each year on 26 October, the anniversary of his passing – and St Cedd’s Day is also known as Essex Day. From beautiful countryside to peaceful seaside towns and Roman

cities, Essex has an abundance of activities and attractions for people of all ages. Essex Day is widely celebrated across the county so be sure to look out for the many events celebrating all things Essex (26 October).

CELEBRATE THE GREAT BRITISH BANGER Witness the medieval spectacle of sausage throwing, as grown men and women hurl seasoned pork as far as they can in this crazy competition. Following the fabulous frivolity, three fantastic inns in historic Harwich throw open their doors for the gathered masses to test the wares of the finest butchers of the Tendring Hundred and determine the public’s favourite sausage. Visitors to the festival will be asked to taste all nine bangers in a blind tasting – all washed down with real ales and ciders. The Harwich Sausage Festival is free of charge to join in and coincides with #UKSausageWeek (2 November).

To discover more, head to visitessex.com

A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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CULTURE • SOCIALS

ABSOLUTELY

ATTENDS THE DREAM FACTORY’S LADIES’ LUNCH

T

he Dream Factory children’s charity held their pre Christmas Ladies’ Lunch at Lokkum Bar & Grill in South Woodford on Thursday 23 November. A wonderful total of £17,500 was raised from the event. This included very generous sponsorship donations to grant a specific dream for three-year-old Connie and her family to go to Disneyland Paris.

“It was a fabulous, glamorous afternoon,” says the charity’s founder, Avril Mills BEM. “It was filled with fun and entertainment with roulette & blackjack tables – thank you to Martin Bell, Scarlotte Diamonte, Caroline Jory, Carl Jacey and Sky magician for donating your time and amazing talent.

“We had a fabulous raffle and a silent auction,” she continues. “Our Patron, Sir Iain Duncan Smith MP, auctioned two bottles of House of Commons champagne, signed by Rishi Sunak, Theresa May and Boris Johnson, which sold for £480 each. Another Patron, Christine Ohuruogu MBE (a gold medal Olympian) auctioned a training session with herself which sold for an amazing £550. Also attending were some other Patrons, Paralympian Anne Wafula Strike MBE, Michael Watson MBE, Colin McMillan MBE and Doreen Golding BEM. “I must thank Terry Tew Sound and Lighting for their professionalism and ongoing support for over 15 years. A massive thank you to everybody who donated all the prizes for the afternoon and a big thank you to Roberts & Sale who sponsored our event including the Funky Casino.

“We have granted 650 dreams to date, with 60 more on our Dream Factory waiting list, needing funds to carry on granting the good work that we do. Thank you for such magnificent support.”

Find out how you can help at yourdreamfactory.org (Photos Emma Mills)

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

“The message was that the government wants to support those in work”

development was underlined by the decision to extend investment zones and expand the tax reliefs available to “freeports”. By creating environments conducive to investment, the government aims to spur economic growth, attract foreign capital, and foster job creation.

SUPPORTING THOSE IN WORK

WINS & LOSSES Yedidya Zaiden, Partner at Raffingers, on the impact of the Chancellor’s statement on businesses and individuals

B

y the time you read this, the Autumn Statement delivered by the Chancellor in November 2023 will likely be a distant memory with the focus turning towards the Spring Budget in March 2024.

However, with speculation of a general election in May 2024, the Autumn Statement was seen by many to be laying the foundations for the tax landscape ahead of the election. A look at some of the key announcements may well hold the key to predictions of future tax policy.

OPEN FOR BUSINESS The underlying theme of the Statement was that Britain is open for business with Jeremy Hunt boasting that his Statement contained 110 measures which would stimulate growth. The focus of the government to encourage innovation and

Alongside this, the message was that the government wants to support those in work.

The national living wage will increase in the spring by almost 10% to £11.40 an hour and eligibility will be extended by reducing the age threshold from 23 to 21, benefitting around 3 million low paid workers.

A headline feature of the Autumn Statement was the reduction in National Insurance Contributions (NIC) to 10% for employees and 8% for self-employed individuals, and the removal of Class 2 NIC for the selfemployed. This bold move not only eases the financial burden on the working class, but also seeks to incentivise entrepreneurship.

IMPACT OF THE MEASURES As noted by several commentators, the freeze on income tax and NIC thresholds, which have been kept unchanged since 2021 and will remain so until 2028, could have a more significant impact on our taxes. This could lead to a larger group of people paying taxes or being pushed into the higher tax brackets, effectively cancelling any benefit they may have had from the Autumn Statement’s giveaways.

Additionally, the surge in inflationary increases in food and other bills and the soaring energy and fuel prices will further increase costs on businesses. While the announcement of making full expensing permanent is a welcome move towards boosting growth, it may not be beneficial for smaller businesses that do not have significant IT, machinery, or equipment costs.

The Chancellor aims to encourage people to return to work through changes in benefits and tax cuts for employees. However, many employers as well as councils and care providers, may find it challenging to pay the increased National Living Wage.

Furthermore, the cut in NIC does not extend to employers NI contributions, which could be a disappointment for struggling businesses. raffingers.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK

WINTER WARMERS THE WHITE HART INN

The White Hart Inn on Mersea Island has welcomed a new head chef, Ed Campbell, to their Michelin Guide listed pub, restaurant and rooms. The winter menu is in full flow and Ed says diners must try the Seafood Ravioli with Oyster & English Sparkling Wine Sauce, which is bursting with flavour and is all Mersea. He also recommends Monkfish, Smoked Mussel Sauce, Swiss Chard, and Roast Onion because it uses beautiful British fish - it’s simple but refined. whitehartinnmersea.co.uk

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Good taste Award-winning chef, Paul Wendholt, tells Absolutely about a varied career that led to him opening Kintsu in Colchester

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

INSIDE KINTSU

Q When did you first develop a taste for cooking?

A It’s hard to pinpoint an exact time for me. Growing up my dad used to have a business building burger vans and he also had one of his own that he ran on weekends and at events that I would help out on. I’m not sure if that’s what gave me the taste for it or not, but it exposed me to cooking, albeit burgers and bacon rolls, at a young age. From there it made sense for my first part time job to be in a kitchen of a local cafe and it just snowballed from there.

Q What was your first professional job?

A Aside from my part time jobs I had during

school and college, my first full time job was in the kitchen of a small hotel in Maldon. I’d been there part time during college, but felt I wasn’t getting what I wanted from my third year in college so I dropped out and took over running the kitchen. Looking back it was

fairly ridiculous – I could cook reasonably well even at that age, but I didn’t know a thing about running a kitchen. I was on my own most of the time, but occasionally I’d have a young lad helping out or one of the housekeepers covering the breakfast shift and washing up. We had an Italian waiter that would cook on my days off – so all in all it was a bit of a shambles, but I learnt a lot and I look back on all my work experiences good and bad fondly because they’ve all given me something that has got me where I am today.

Q How many places did you work at before launching Kintsu?

A Honestly I worked at a lot, it was a running joke among my mates that each time we met up I’d have a new job. I’d like to hope I was a good employee everywhere I went, but I would get itchy feet and move on too soon a lot of the time. So I’ve seen it all from burger van, café, pub, small restaurant, big restaurant, wedding

PAUL IS A REGULAR AT FOOD EVENTS

venue, hotel, even a nightclub restaurant hybrid. That’s one that stands out, it was the first head chef job I took when I was actually experienced enough to know exactly what I was doing – honestly it wasn’t the best food I’ve ever cooked or even the best environment, but I had a good bunch of chefs and we really bonded over being in such an unusual kitchen environment together. It was a surreal time, but we keep in touch now and look back and laugh about what we went through there.

Q When did you decide to open Kintsu and why was it the right time?

A Kintsu came about after my first restaurant Grain closed in 2020. I opened Grain with a chef I’d known and worked with for a number of years in 2016 after we both became frustrated with the restaurants we were working in being run so poorly. It started out as an innocent enough conversation, but realising we shared a similar vision we found a place that was on the market that we could just about afford so we took the plunge.

Q Why Colchester?

A Speaking of Grain we opened in Colchester

because it was where we both lived and where we knew the shape of the dining scene the best. Then when we closed in 2020 after deciding we wanted to move in different directions I never considered leaving Colchester. Our landlord from Grain was keen to keep me as a tenant and with it being right in the middle of the Covid complications it made sense for me A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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FOOD & DRINK • INTERVIEW

THE COSY OUTSIDE SPACE AT KINTSU

“I have no doubt that we’re currently cooking the best food we ever have at Kintsu” to stay where we were and capitalise on the reputation we had built at this location, but this time on my own as a different restaurant.

Q From day one, what did you want to offer?

A My goal was to build on and refine what we did at Grain. At Grain we were the first place locally to do small plates and after initial hesitation from some diners it really took off for us, so I opened Kintsu to begin with, with the same format. The goal though was always to move towards tasting menus because I knew this would mean we could then start to move the food forward as we had basically hit the ceiling of what we were able to do from such a small team and kitchen with a la carte menus.

Q How do you approach the menus?

A Fundamentally we cook what we like to eat

barbecue to impart some of the smoky flavour.

We also mince down all the duck legs for a really tasty duck ragu and serve it with black garlic, broccoli and a slice of duck ham that we cure and smoke ourselves at the restaurant.

Our desserts are always great too – currently we are using Pump Street in Suffolk, two different chocolates (milk and dark) that get served with a smoked date caramel and an ice cream made with a local apple brandy.

Q Where do you source your ingredients from?

A We have our main suppliers that I’ve built relationships with over the last decade or so in Colchester, but at Kintsu we’re keen to use smaller suppliers and even buy direct from the producers if we can. Our fish comes from a small company called A&J Seafood in Suffolk and they buy direct from local boats when they can, meaning we get unbelievable fresh local fish from them, and there are even smaller producers I will visit on my way to the restaurant in the mornings to pick up local milk, cream, fruit and vegetables.

Q What do you offer with the Chef’s Table?

A The Chef’s Table is an extension of the

and just try to make sure it’s the tastiest it can be. There are just two of us in the kitchen and we have an almost symbiotic working relationship, so we tend to think similarly about the dishes and food in general because we’re working so closely for 12 hours a day.

I have no doubt we’re currently cooking the best food we ever have at Kintsu.

Q Are there a couple of dishes you have on the menu right now that you particularly love?

A It’s difficult because I’m notoriously hard to please and always think we can do more.

However, currently we have a duck dish as our tasting menu main course – we get incredible salt aged ducks from one of our butchers and after cooking them we rest them over the

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restaurant in the sense that the menu is the same, but you get to sit up on a higher bench directly in front of the kitchen so you can watch us cook and see how the kitchen operates.

Then me and Ruby (my pastry chef) bring the dishes to the table to explain not just what they are, but the stories behind them, how they got on the menu, where the ingredients come from etc.

Q As we enter 2024, what are your hopes for the future?

A We’ve been lucky enough to receive a few accolades since we opened and of course we’d love to build on them, but they are a secondary to happy customers. If we can continue to hit that mark and have people leaving with smiles on their faces telling their friends about the great meal they had then that’s enough for us.

kintsu.co.uk

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Traditional pub with rooms in the heart of the Norfolk Broads, with a local food and drink focus, and awards of 4 * AA rooms & 2 AA Rosette dining

www.theloddonswan.co.uk

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E XC L U S I V E LY YO U R S BOOK YOUR P ER FE C T P R I VAT E S TAYCAT ION

TALBOOTH HOUSE & SPA EXCLUSIVE HIRE

THE PIER HOUSE PARTIES

Talbooth House & Spa is a fabulous Essex property available to hire exclusively for one or two nights with family, friends or colleagues.

Enjoy private use of the 12-bedroom hotel and gardens, with the option to add exclusive use of the spa and pool area.

Head to the Essex coast and enjoy exclusive use of The Pier’s standalone building, The Angel, complete with seven bedrooms and large sitting room. This Harwich sea-front property is ideal for an all-inclusive house party for up to 14 guests.

IDLE WATERS

THE GATEHOUSE

Relax beside the River Stour in Dedham, Essex, in this selfcatered luxury cottage designed for up to four people. With a spa and restaurants on your doorstep, Idle Waters offers the perfect location to escape the busy world and recharge your batteries.

Unwind in the Suffolk countryside with exclusive use of this luxury house in the grounds of milsoms Kesgrave Hall. Sleeping up to 8 guests, The Gatehouse is the perfect spot for a golf break, spa retreat or wedding party.

www.milsomhotels.com/exclusive-use

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FOOD & DRINK • EVENT

ABSOLUTELY

ATTENDS

TALBOOTH RESTAURANT’S CHRISTMAS GOURMET FEAST

A

bsolutely, alongside representatives from a host of publications across the county and our good friends at Visit Essex, were invited to The Talbooth Restaurant’s annual Christmas Gourmet menu at Talbooth Restaurant along with an overnight stay at Talbooth House & Spa. The five course Gourmet menu was especially created by their Head Chef Jamie Jackson at Talbooth Restaurant along with an optional wine flight to accompany the menu to enhance each dish.

The menu was available every evening from Friday 1–Saturday 23 December.

After exchanging pleasantries with our guests for the evening, we got down to business choosing our food (after a Champagne Reception, of course). For the starter, we opted for the Garam Masala Roast Wood Pigeon Salsify, charred sprout leaves, blackberry and red wine. It was truly wonderful, with a taste of spice and rich berries that really gave the whole dish a feeling of Christmas. Opting to enjoy the wine flight too – which was in consultation with Mr Wheeler Wine Company – we were served a glass of 2020 Cepas Single Vineyard Cabernet Franc, Penedo Borges, Mendoza, which proved to be the perfect complement to the pigeon.

Next up, we plumped for the Pan Roast Orkney Scallop, Oyster mushroom, Parma ham crumb and pickled mustard seeds – the perfect appetiser before the main course.

For the main, we went for thr Roasted Fillet of Beef, Pomme purée, celeriac, cavolo nero and ‘Steak Diane’ sauce, cooked medium rare.

It was a mouth watering dish, with the purée and sauce in particular adding a real zest to it.

It was an exquisitely crafted menu, full of little touches that elevated each dish, making for an unforgettable experience.

milsomhotels.com/talbooth-restaurant

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FA S H I O N

BURNING DESIRE BERRY’S JEWELLERS

From the Latin word ‘ruber’, which means red, the ruby’s colour suggests an inextinguishable burning flame, and it has long been said to inspire passion, devotion and faithfulness. It is also believed that the ruby can promote self-care in the wearer and inspire confidence to tackle all aspects of life.

Discover a stunning range of ruby jewellery at your nearest Berry’s boutique or berrysjewellers.co.uk

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BRIGHT HORIZONS

To boldly go… Start 2024 with a burst of colour thanks to the latest collection from Oliver Bonas in Chelmsford OLIVERBONAS.COM

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

For Keeps

Start dropping hints about these standout engagement rings B y C A R LY G L E N D I N N I N G

TOMFOOLERY LONDON

JEMMA WYNNE

MICHELLE OH

18K yellow gold and diamond ring, £14,795 tomfoolerylondon.co.uk

Prive luxe Isadora ring made with platinum and diamonds, £POA jemmawynne.com

18K yellow gold, yellow sapphire and diamond ring, £POA michelle-oh.com

GRAFF

SHAHLA KARIMI

BRIONY RAYMOND

3.78ct fancy yellow radiant cut diamond ring with yellow pavé diamond surround and band (5.45cts), £POA graff.com

14K yellow gold and diamond ring, £6,100 shahlakarimi.com

Sloan solitaire ring made with 18K yellow gold and a yellow diamond, £POA brionyraymond.com

GROWN BRILLIANCE

AKAILA REID

ARTËMER

18K white gold Milan ring with 8.19 carats of lab grown diamonds, £13,160 grownbrilliance.com

Triple gypset ring 18K yellow gold with 1.34 carats of diamonds, £7,157 akailareid.com

18K yellow gold, morganite and diamond ring, £4,000 tomfoolerylondon.co.uk

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weddings@worsteadestate.com

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WIVENHOE HOUSE HOTEL

The Essex Wedding Awards were held at Chelmsford Racecourse recently and Wivenhoe House Hotel were nominated in five categories - and were thrilled to win Hotel Wedding Venue of the Year. Wivenhoe House Hotel, an 18th century country house hotel on the Essex/ Suffolk border just outside of Colchester boasts 40 bedrooms, the Park Brasserie restaurant and event spaces. wivenhoehouse.co.uk

PHOTO: MARTIN BEALE

WEDDINGS

BEST OF THE BEST

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W E L C O M E

T O

BRAXTED PARK Why the venue just outside of Colchester has everything to make your big day truly memorable

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P

icture an exclusive-use wedding venue surrounded by enchanting Essex countryside as far as the eye can see. The beautiful 500-acre estate of Braxted Park is steeped in a rich history that’s complemented by modern luxury.

A carefully curated venue

Braxted Park is the epitome of elegance and grandeur, offering complete exclusivity that will make you feel as though you’re miles away from the rest of the world in your own private paradise. However, this peaceful and private setting is only a few miles from nearby towns and just one hour away from London. This makes it an ideal escape to the countryside in a central location that’s easy to reach.

Make your preparations

The beautiful bridal changing room is a self-contained courtyard retreat providing the ideal space to prepare before your ceremony. Best of all, it’s just a few steps through the Lantern Room to the Orangery from this calm and relaxing setting. And there is also an equally private space in the Garden Cottage for your partner to get ready and relax in before the main event.

PHOTO: MATT WING

WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

Your breathtaking ceremony

Indoors, outdoors, or church ceremonies, there’s something for everyone at Braxted Park. For an indoor civil ceremony, the Orangery is a luxury space large enough to surround yourself with friends and family. If you’d prefer an outdoor ceremony, the characterful summer house in the beautiful walled gardens is full of delightful surprises and secluded nooks to explore.

If a traditional religious ceremony is what you dream of, there’s no need to compromise. Braxted Park even has a church within its grounds. This hidden gem is steeped in history and romance dating back to 1042 and is just a short stroll past the tranquil lake to the house itself.

A versatile reception space

There are so many options for your reception at Braxted Park. Why not start by soaking up the picturesque surroundings with a drinks reception in the Walled Gardens? You can follow this with your wedding breakfast and evening reception in The Pavilion, a versatile space that can accommodate wedding parties of all sizes.

Incredible food and drink

Braxted Park offers food and drink menus that are completely versatile and flexible, tailored to suit your day perfectly. Whatever food selections you make, you can rest assured that they’ll be created by a truly passionate team about bringing the best food to you and your guests. Their team will collaborate directly with you to create a memorable experience that your guests will be talking about for years to come.

If you are planning a cultural wedding, Braxted Park offers you the opportunity to hire the venue on a dry-hire basis. This allows you to arrange your own catering and bar requirements, using the Pavilion’s large capacity to plan the wedding you’ve

always wanted in a stunning location.

Dry hire of Braxted Park is perfect for Asian, Jewish, Afro-Caribbean, Turkish and other cultural weddings, allowing you to make the day completely your own in line with your traditions and beliefs.

Stay the night

If you don’t want your night to end, it doesn’t have to. Their idyllic honeymoon cottage is a perfect place for spending your wedding night. Its private garden, valley views, and hidden terrace make it the perfect honeymoon hideaway.

There are also 12 more bedrooms in the smart and contemporary stable block that have been recently renovated. There’s space for families and one completely accessible room, so all your guests are catered to.

Although Braxted Park is a secluded retreat, it’s also one of Essex’s best-placed wedding venues. In Colchester, just a short drive away, there is a variety of excellent hotels and B&Bs to suit all budgets.

What are you waiting for?

Braxted Park is an experienced wedding venue that draws on the rich family history of the estate. The team prides itself on welcoming all couples into the extended family. That same personal approach is present throughout the whole experience at Braxted Park.

From the moment you step foot on the grounds at Braxted Park for your first visit, the friendly team is there to support you every step of the way and make sure that your dream wedding becomes a reality.

B R A X T E D PA R K To find out more about Braxted Park, visit braxtedparkweddings.co.uk or contact a member of the Braxted Park team on 01621 770855 to book a visit

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More Than Just A Venue EXCLUSIVE USE MANOR HOUSE 15 STYLISH GUEST ROOMS PRE-WEDDING ACCOMMODATION

Hubbards Hall Drive, Off Churchgate Street, Old Harlow, Essex, CM17 0NH For more information please contact 01279 354455 enquiries@thatamazingplace.co.uk www.thatamazingplace.co.uk

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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

Love story How Worstead Estate offers an exclusive 3-day celebration that will live long in the memory

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tidden in the heart of the enchanting North Norfolk countryside, Worstead Estate emerges as the epitome of timeless elegance, offering engaged couples an exclusive 3-day wedding experience like no other.

Immerse yourselves in the serenity of the private 300-acre parkland, where nature’s beauty becomes the backdrop to your love story. Journey down the meandering avenue, leading you through a picturesque landscape, the allure of the tranquil lake island, surrounded by the whispering trees and the soft rustle of nature.

The charm extends beyond the natural beauty to their meticulously renovated Woodyard buildings that seamlessly blends historic elegance with modern amenities. With comfort and class, they will ensure your dream wedding unfolds exactly as you planned. The tedious details are built into the fabric of the building and the logistics are seamlessly dealt with by a dedicated team with every hire.

Enjoy the freedom to bring your styling, your music, your caterers and now even your own drinks, without any corkage restrictions, allowing you to savour your celebration exactly the way you wished-for. Their little black

book of recommended suppliers will ensure you’re surrounded by safe, helping hands.

Extend your celebration beyond the ceremony with their optional estate accommodation, offering a luxury stay for up to 31 guests. Choose from four modern Georgian period properties, each meticulously designed to blend contemporary comfort with the timeless charm of the estate. Your guests will be treated to a retreat that reflects the exclusivity of your wedding experience.

The next day is a seamless extension of the magic you experienced on your wedding.

With a 3-day hire, you can share laughter and recount the magical moments from your special day at the accommodation. Whichever you choose, brunch or barbecue, let them tailor the experience to your preferences, ensuring that the day after is as amazing as your big day.

Embark on a journey with Worstead Estate, where luxury meets romance, and every detail is tailored to tell your unique love story.

Worstead Estate invites you to weave the next chapter of your life amid the beauty of North Norfolk – a pattern that begins with an unforgettable 3-day wedding celebration.

Your dream wedding awaits at Worstead Estate, where your love is the centrepiece. worsteadestate.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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WEDDINGS • PARTNERSHIP

“The long driveway is sure to make a lasting impression

P R E P A R E T O B E

AMAZED Exploring the unique wedding venue in Old Harlow that’s the stuff of fairytales

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hat Amazing Place is a 5-star rated exclusive use wedding venue located in Old Harlow, Essex.

With their beautiful Grade II listed country house, stunning grounds and exceptional customer service, it is the perfect location for your special day.

Licensed for civil ceremonies, their choice of ceremony rooms can accommodate up to 150 guests for your wedding celebration.

Inside the house, you can say “I Do” in the Hall or Lounge, or for larger weddings, the marquee offers views of the gardens. In the summer months, you can also choose to get married in the gazebo next to the lake, located in the heart of the grounds, surrounded by the beauty of nature.

If you are looking for a picturesque wedding venue that’s fit for a fairytale, then this really is the venue for you. Nestled in breathtaking grounds, this venue boasts all the features you could want for a truly

unforgettable day, including a secret garden walkway – the perfect spot for a romantic stroll, or for capturing some intimate moments away from the hustle and bustle of the main event. And of course, no fairytale wedding would be complete without a grand entrance. The venue’s long driveway is sure to make a lasting impression on your guests!

But it’s not just the stunning setting that makes this venue so special. That Amazing Place’s exceptional customer service ensures that your big day runs like clockwork, leaving you free to relax and enjoy every moment of your special day.

The venue also offers overnight accommodation for the wedding couple and up to 29 of their guests, making it convenient for your guests to stay and celebrate with you. Additionally, they offer pre-wedding accommodation for up to 8 guests in The Wedding Lodge, where you and your bridal party can relax and get ready for your big day in the spacious bridal preparation rooms.

The team at That Amazing Place is dedicated to providing you with exceptional customer service, ensuring that every detail is taken care of on your wedding day. From the moment you book, they will work closely with you to create a bespoke wedding package that meets your specific needs and preferences.

That Amazing Place understands that your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and they are committed to making it unforgettable.

Contact the team today to schedule a tour of the venue and learn more about how they can make your wedding dreams a reality. thatamazingplace.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Spa Days and Stays

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HEALTH & BEAUTY S

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FEEL GOOD FACTORS Welcome to a new year and Absolutely's health and beauty special. Inside, we visit ten of the best places in Essex to get fit and have fun, look at the ways you can beat SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder), find out some top tips on how to get a good night's sleep, plus we visit one of the finest spas the county has to offer. There is our regular fitness notes round up, and a couple of different angles to wellbeing: first we go behind the scenes of the latest in care home luxury, and head off to Saint Lucia for the perfect overseas break. It's everything you need to start 2024 off well.

In this sect ion H E A L T H Y E S S E X 60 B E A T S A D 66 F I T N E S S N O T E S 69 E D E N S P A 71 A B B O T T S T R AV E L 74

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ZIPLINE AT GO APE

HEALTHY HOT SPOTS

Whether it’s taking up a new hobby, getting active or simply a spa break to ease yourself into 2024, Essex has plenty for mind and body 60

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HEALTHEALTH & BEAUTY • ESSEX

HOT TUB AT STOKE-BYNAYLAND RESORT

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anuary is the perfect time to set some health goals.

Luckily, Essex is blessed with top spas, leading golf courses, beautiful natural surrounds for walks, plus adrenalinefuelled action for all ages.

Visit Essex suggest five top tips on how to get fit and look after your mind, body and spirit in 2024.

TEE OFF AND TAKE UP A NEW HOBBY Stoke-by-Nayland resort on the Essex/Suffolk borders is the perfect spot to brush up on your golf skills. Its 18-hole golf course is the perfect place to unwind and refine your golf skills.

The venue also boasts an 80-bed hotel, so why not treat yourself to a golfing weekend?

Golfers will also love Braxted Park Golf Club, located in an Area of Outstanding Beauty within the walled grounds of one of the county’s finest private estates. The nine-hole course is beautifully landscaped and offers undulating tree-lined vistas, where golfers

may also glimpse the estate’s resident deer.

For a more static experience and to practice your technique, head to the driving range at Golf World near Stansted, where golfers of all abilities can tee off and play for fun. There’s also a three-hole beginner course and a picturesque ninehole golf course for the more ambitious.

BECOME AN OUTDOOR WARRIOR Billed as the ‘hottest new adventure in Essex’, adrenaline junkies will love to take to the treetops at Go Ape in Chelmsford. Set in the beautiful grounds of Hylands Estate, visitors can traverse across the Tarzan swings, soar through the air on high-speed ziplines and tackle intricate crossings. Children can also join the treetop adventures and take a slightly less demanding course.

Also, why not challenge yourself to get muddy. Test your fitness and skill in the great outdoors at Nuclear Races in Brentwood. With a 20-foot free-fall deathslide, 120 metre permanent steel gorilla bars and a four-storey deep underground

“The 20-foot freefall deathslide and 120 metre gorilla bars will certainly put your fitness to the test” Secret Nuclear Bunker, there’s plenty to do to put your fitness to the test, if you dare!

FIND YOUR INNER NINJA For those who prefer to stay warm and get fit indoors, the county has much to offer.

Head to Essex’s largest indoor climbing centre, the Lock Climbing Wall in Harlow.

Whether you are a seasoned climber or a newbie who’d like to give it a go, there are great climbing experiences for everyone.

Or head out for some family fun at a trampoline park. Flip Out Lakeside offers a jump-tastic experience for fun-loving athletes of all ages. The attraction boasts the UK’s longest traverse wall, plus a ninja wipeout podium, ninja tag games and a stunt zone where experienced jumpers can leap from raised boxes.

For an even mightier challenge, fitness fanatics can test their physical strength and agility at the new Ninja Warrior UK in Chelmsford. Inspired by the muchloved TV show, visitors can conquer the famous warped wall, balance on beams or bounce across inflatables.

CUDMORE GROVE

FLIP XXXXXXXXXXXX OUT LAKESIDE

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • ESSEX

STOKE-BY-NAYLAND GOLF COURSE

SLIDE, NUCLEAR RACES, PHOTO BY WILD FOREST

A FAMILY AT THE GRUFFALO TRAIL IN THORNDON COUNTRY PARK

POWER WALK THROUGH STUNNING COUNTRYSIDE Explore Epping Forest with its 8,000 acres of woodland with over 284km of paths.

The forest has ten waymarked circular trails, most of which start and end near car parks or train stations. With 55,000 ancient trees, including oaks, beech and hornbeam, it’s a beautiful place to get out and walk off some calories this new year.

Essex is also home to a wide range of country parks, such as Cudmore Grove on Mersea Island, which offers wideopen landscapes to the sea. There’s also the wooded country parks of Thorndon Country Park, which is home to the Gruffalo Trail, and Weald Country Park where you can follow the adventures of the Stick Man, both near Brentwood.

If you love walking by the riverside, make a date to power walk the Wivenhoe trail. The

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path starts at Wivenhoe train station and is a 2.5-mile meander through the Colne estuary to the historic city of Colchester.

Wivenhoe itself is a quaint, bohemian estuary town that is well worth looking round for its independent shops before heading off along the Colne. The estuary is part of a nature reserve and is a great place to spot wildfowl on its salty marshes.

You can end your walk at Colchester Hythe station or follow the route a little further into Colchester’s Castle Park.

INDULGE IN A SPA EXPERIENCE De-stress mind and body with a relaxing visit to one of the county’s leading spas to look after your wellbeing. The spa at Potters Resorts Five Lakes, near Maldon, offers 12 treatment rooms, heated pool, whirlpool, sauna, steam room and relaxation room.

It’s the perfect place to unwind within

“De-stress mind and body at one of the county's leading spas” 320-acres of glorious Essex countryside.

Or immerse yourself in a variety of treatments at the stunning Down Hall on the Essex/Herts border. The hotel is equipped with a wonderful wet spa, which includes hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and sauna. Their Eden Spa is a wonderful place to relax the body and soothe the soul.

Stoke-by-Nayland resort near Colchester also offers a range of cleansing, nourishing and relaxing treatments to help you look and feel your best. The spa boasts an 18-metre swimming pool, sanarium, steam room, jacuzzi and a concept shower. All guests are treated to complimentary towels, robes and flip flops. The spa also offers a Rasul mud therapy experience.

Rasul is the traditional Arabian cleansing ritual for two to four people. Cover yourself and your partner with mud and enjoy some clean fun!

See more at visitessex.com

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Historic Country Splendour Award-winning Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate is the idyllic place to escape the daily grind Boasting beautiful bedrooms, elegant event spaces and a luxury Spa, the four silver-star hotel is truly unique

Meets Contemporary Chic Matching Road | Hatfield Heath | Essex | CM22 7AS tel: 01279 731 441 | email: info@downhall.co.uk visit: www.downhall.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

Sleep secrets How to achieve the perfect night’s sleep?

Start with the perfect mattress

By EVE HERBERT

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he perfect night’s sleep is the holy grail of life. The quality of our sleep defines our day – and a good night will lead to happier, more productive and successful waking hours. But how to achieve it? Most important is, of course, the bed itself. Swedish company Carpe Diem Beds was founded 25 years ago by chiropractor Börje Thuleskär, a firm believer in the importance of sleep for body and mind. He sought out the best mattress on the market, but wasn’t impressed by it. One day he fell asleep on a bed of heather by the sea and discovered that it was more comfortable than any bed. This led him to embark on a quest to build the perfect bed, one that would mimic the feeling of weightlessness he had had on the heather. The quest took thousands of hours and a partnership with the Spinal Unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden. The final result is Carpe Diem Beds' patented Contour Pocket System, which has a

unique cushioning ability. It gently yields and supports at the same time, instantly moulding to your body’s contours and changing with your every movement. The sensation is unique: almost weightless and quite unlike most standard mattresses. Just like lying on a bed of heather on the cliffs by the Swedish sea, in fact. Carpe Diem Beds has a showroom on Wigmore Street where visitors can experience the company’s ethos first hand, and there are displays at Harrods and Heal’s too.

The store is dedicated to optimising the bedroom environment to create an oasis of calm, and visitors can experience the company’s ethos first hand under the guidance of manger Rui Franca. And while choosing the perfect mattress for you is at the heart of the experience, there’s a strong focus on bedroom design and streamlining, so that the bed you choose can be enclosed in an environment that’s conducive to optimum sleep health. It’s a very calming place and people are encouraged to take their time. The consultation involves trying every bed until you find the one you like best. “We like people to come and spend an hour or two trying the beds. There’s a widespread misconception that a firm mattress is better for you, says Rui. “But we believe that you should sleep in the bed, not on the bed, and our contour pocket system is meant to contour your body so that you feel you’re sleeping on a cloud.”

Top of the range is Vindö, the most innovative adjustable bed that offers automatic lumbar and neck support, with head and foot rests that can be lowered or raised to suit your needs. It has a variety of massage functions that can be controlled via an app, as well as built in under-bed lighting. Skaftö is Carpe Diem Beds’ most exclusive continental bed and its moveable mid-section can be adjusted, with built-in back support customised by remote control. There’s no better single route to wellbeing for body and soul than rest and sleep, and that’s why a Carpe Diem bed is a long term investment in your overall health.

15 Wigmore Street, W1 020 3982 3252; carpediembeds.co.uk

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Dont be

BLUE The Natural Way in Braintree offer up some pointers to tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder

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f January has you feeling low, you should know that you’re not alone. Feelings of sadness, low mood, low energy and problems sleeping are incredibly common at this time of the year. Finding ways to manage low mood during times of challenge is hugely important. Try to focus on the positives – sometimes just something small is all it takes…

SMILE!

Something as simple as a smile can trick the brain into thinking you’re happy and calm, as you use the same facial muscles you use when you’re genuinely happy.

Better still, share that smile with someone else and brighten their day too!

BE PRESENT

EXERCISE OUTDOORS WHERE YOU CAN

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When we focus on the past, we tend to feel depressed about the things we cannot change and when we focus on the future, we can feel anxious about events we cannot control.

Try to ground yourself in the present by being aware of what you’re smelling, hearing, touching, tasting and seeing. Let your senses anchor you to what’s happening right now.

Simple activities such as gardening, cooking, arts and crafts or stroking a pet, are great for bringing you back to the present moment.

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FOCUS

PETS WILL TAKE YOUR MIND OFF THE BAD STUFF

SMILING HELPS BOOST THE MOOD

EXERCISE - AND ENJOY THE OUTDOORS

Exercise is really good for us. Not only does it help to release the feel good endorphins that make us happy, but exercising outdoors can help to increase levels of vitamin D, low levels of which can lead to low mood.

Do all of that in a green leafy park and you give yourself a triple boost as green space exposure is believed to activate a primitive

PORRIDGE IS RICH IN B VITAMINS

part of the brain involved with stress regulatory responses. Just ten minutes a day will help you to feel better and more in control.

ABOUT THAT VITAMIN D

Often referred to as the ‘sunshine vitamin’, vitamin D is naturally produced in the body when exposed to sunlight. Deficiency during the darker months is extremely common in the UK and many scientists point to a connection between vitamin D deficiency and low mood. This is partly due to where in the brain our vitamin D receptors are located – the area of the brain we know to be associated with depression. It is also thought that vitamin D may influence how serotonin works, which again could influence how we’re feeling.

Food sources of vitamin D include oily fish and eggs. Equally a vitamin D supplement or spray can help to combat vit D deficiency.

B VITAMINS AND LOW MOOD

If energy levels are low, foods rich in B vitamins are recommended because they help to convert food into energy. B vitamin deficiency has also been linked directly to low mood, so it’s well worth topping up.

Oat-based cereals (porridge especially) are

“Something as simple as a smile can trick the brain” a great way to start the day. Alternatively a B-Complex supplement can help.

CAN ST. JOHN’S WORT HELP WITH DEPRESSION?

For feelings of sluggishness, low mood or mild anxiety, the herbal remedy St. John’s Wort or Hypericum is worth a try. Scientists believe it works by prolonging the action of serotonin and by increasing levels of melatonin. We often recommend A.Vogel’s Hyperiforce tablets, but do bear in mind that Hypericum can take up to six weeks for best results, and it can interact with other medications and affect the way they work, so it isn’t suitable for everyone. Check with your GP first if on prescribed medicines.

STAYING POSITIVE WITH FLOWER ESSENCES

If Hypericum is not for you, you could try Jan de Vries Mood Essence, a combination of Flower Essences that may give support when it is difficult to stay positive. Taken regularly it aims to uplift and bring back an optimistic and enthusiastic outlook.

For further advice, ask Richard Sambridge and his team at The Natural Way, 82 High Street, Braintree, Essex. thenaturalway.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

FITNESS

TOP

PICKS

NOTES

THREE HIKING STAPLES

By CARLY GLENDINNING

WARM UP This half-zip top is designed to keep the chills out, making the perfect layer for hiking. Soft and warm, the fabric is treated with a plant seed-based finish to help wick sweat as you climb to your destination, £88. lululemon.co.uk

SUPER

TR AINER

ALL DAY EXPLORING This waterproof hiking boot is designed for all trails, and to withstand all weather conditions.

With excellent heel stability and Missiongrip™ technology, you'll feel secure on the most uneven terrain, £190. on-running.com

STAY WARM Filled with responsibly-sourced down for unbeatable warmth, this jacket is ideal for cold, wet days on the trail. It also has clever FlashDry™ technology, which wicks away moisture to keep you dry and comfortable if you start to sweat, £315. thenorthface.co.uk

Carly Glendinning meets celebrity personal trainer and founder of LDM Louisa Drake

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’s Friday and I’m sitting in the waiting area at UNTIL, home to some of the UK’s top health and wellness professionals. I’m here to meet Louisa Drake, founder of the Louisa Drake Method, and known for training celebrities from Gwynth Paltrow to Rooney Mara. Louisa bounds around the corner, with a huge smile and I warm to her immediately. She puts me through my paces on the reformer Pilates machine and takes me through exercises with free weights, Pilates resistance bands, and a ball.

As I perform each movement, Louisa assesses my strengths and weaknesses, checking which side feels more comfortable.

We discuss my fitness goals and areas I want to improve (I

have a toddler, so it’s my core and pelvic floor). “I’m already making a mental note of which LDM videos will be great for you,” she says as I get ready to leave. The following week, an incredibly detailed fitness plan with nutritional guidelines, as well as notes about my weaker areas and how to improve them, lands in my inbox. Armed with my LDM Total Workout Kit, I’m all set to log onto the LDM platform and start training. With a background as a professional dancer, choreographer, and movement coach, Louisa’s programme is fusion of Pilates, yoga, barre, and HIIT. She’s recommended I aim for three full-body strength and resistance based sessions and two-three HIIT/

cardio sessions per week.

Before meeting Louisa, I think I might have found this a bit daunting, but I’m so fired up after our session that I stick to it and find myself really enjoying it. The videos are led by different LDM instructors and I try a combination of 'Barre', 'Sculpt', 'Refine, Core' and Louisa’s signature 'Shape Changer' classes. I’ve noticed a huge difference in a few short weeks and I'd highly recommend a one-to-one with Louisa to supercharge your routine.

Access to the LDM Virtual Studio starts from £20 a month. One-to-one session pricing on request; louisadrake.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

DISCOVERING

EDEN Celebrate the new year at Down Hall Hotel, Spa & Estate

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anuary is all about sticking to those resolutions and giving yourself me-time.

Prioritise your wellness in Eden Spa, set within 110-acres of calming woodlands and landscaped gardens, at the awardwinning Down Hall Hotel Spa & Estate in the heart of the Essex countryside.

From mothers-to-be-massages through to menopause packages, fabulous facials to specialised cancer-friendly treatments, there’s something for everyone.

The striking spa boasts ultra-modern facilities, including a hydrotherapy pool, a mood-lit sauna, a state-of-the-art steam room with starry-night feature lighting, a wellness power shower, relaxation beds and spacious changing rooms. There are four treatment rooms, including a double suite, filled with ESPA natural skin and spa products, plus world leading nail care

from Jessica for manicures and pedicures.

Guests can choose from a range of bespoke treatments, which leave your skin feeling nourished and balanced.

Specifically tailored, facials will include cleansing and exfoliation followed by a massage, mask and intensive serum. Choose from the ESPA skin solutions facial (£90 for 65 minutes), the tri-active age-defyer (£102 for 65 minutes) or the personalised express facial (£30 for 25 minutes).

Pick from eight different types of massage, including the lava shells massage (£72.50 for 35 minutes) to aid tense muscles. As the heat forms, the lava shells will gently relax and smooth away knots, whilst also boosting circulation of blood and lymph to help with aches and pains.

Mothers-to-be can indulge in a deeply nourishing body massage designed to target areas prone to stress and tension during pregnancy (£99 for 65 minutes).

The team have also been specially trained

to offer cancer-friendly treatments, allowing those living with or recovering from cancer to experience a bespoke ESPA Be Nurtured treatment, from a full body massage (£100 for 65 minutes) to a facial (£95 for 65 minutes) or back, face and scalp (£130 for 90 minutes).

Prices start from £70pp (Monday– Thursday) for the New Year, New You package, including a scalp, neck and shoulder massage with two-hour access to the wet spa to relax and rest. Towels, robes and slippers will be provided. Alternatively, make it a spa mini break and book an overnight stay in one of the hotel’s luxury rooms or treat someone special to a gift of wellness with an Eden Spa voucher.

EDEN SPA AT DOWN HALL HOTEL & SPA Matching Road, Hatfield Heath Essex, CM22 7AS, 01279 731441 downhall.co.uk

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Moat House Care Home

Our family, caring for yours

Led by kindness, compassion and dignity our highly trained care teams deliver the kind of care we would want all our loved ones to receive. Moat House Care Home provides residential care, short-term respite care and specialist dementia care.

Residential / Respite / Dementia Care

If you would like to learn more about life at our home or to book a tour, please call our Customer Relations Manager George Byford on 07399 062 647 or email george.byford@countrycourtcare.com.

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01279 743 184 Great Easton, Great Dunmow, Essex, CM6 2DL

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13/12/2023 12:29

HEALTH & BEAUTY • PARTNERSHIP

“They promote a lifestyle for residents that offers a luxurious environment”

HOME

from home Absolutely visits Moat House Care Home, which was opened in Great Easton in October 2023

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oat House Care Home is located in the scenic village of Great Easton, near Great Dunmow, Essex. The care home was officially opened by Deputy Mayor Peter Childs in October 2023. Moat House is the latest care home to be opened by Country Court, an award-winning Peterborough-based care home operator that provides residential and dementia care in a luxurious and homely setting.

At Moat House, you’ll receive a warm welcome as soon as you walk through the door. Their devoted staff get to know each resident and their family individually to offer personcentred care and support. Their ethos of ‘our family caring for yours’ is truly

at the heart of everything they do.

Their residents enjoy regular activities of their choice, from daily exercise to therapeutic sessions and lively social gatherings, there is always something going on to enjoy. Their community coffee morning proved popular recently, with plans to make it a regular fixture on the events calendar. Residents enjoyed meeting many local people who joined them for a chat over a cup of coffee or tea with freshly made cakes provided by their Chef Manager.

Moat House Care Home promotes a lifestyle for residents that offers a luxurious environment with exceptional personalised care. Residents can enjoy catching up with friends over a cup of coffee in the Coffee Club or socialising in the varied day spaces, indulge in pampering sessions at the hair salon, and enjoy homemade food in the wonderful lounge and dining areas.

If you are considering the move to a care home, they are here to support you and your family. If you have any questions about what life in a care home is like or paying for care, they are happy to answer any query.

M OAT H O U S E CA R E H O M E Please contact Customer Relations Manager George Byford on 07399 062 647 or via email at george.byford@countrycourtcare.com

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LOVE ISLAND Abbotts Travel throws the spotlight on Saint Lucia, the perfect place to get away from it all

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mpossibly picturesque, her jagged, jungle-clad peaks rising from the sea like dragon’s teeth. Stunning Saint Lucia is rightly feted as the Caribbean’s most romantic island. Accommodation ranges from rustic rainforest retreats and boutique beach hotels, to some of the most staggeringly luxurious resorts in the entire region. It’s no surprise that Saint Lucia is a favourite for couples on their honeymoon, but a lot of high-octane pursuits and watersports also make it a great destination for the more adventurous traveller, as well as for the active families looking for more than just a beach holiday.

THE PITONS Start your exploration of Saint Lucia’s famous landmarks with the Pitons, two volcanic plugs on the south-western coast of the island. Each Piton has its own name: Gros Piton (2,530 ft high) and Petit Piton

“Stunning Saint Lucia is rightly feted as the Caribbean's most romantic island” (2,438 ft high). These landmarks inspired the creation of a local beer, Piton, popular with locals and residents alike.

days, it hosts the fantastic Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival each April-May.

PIGEON ISLAND

Of all Saint Lucia’s most famous landmarks, Soufrière is one of the most recognisable. The town’s name comes from the sulphurous aromas created by the volcanoes. Explore the town square and get to know the culture of Saint Lucia, while shopping for a few souvenirs along the way, or head out to some of the natural wonders of the island.

If you want to combine history and nature in your visit, we recommend a visit to Pigeon Island. Sitting just off the northern tip of Saint Lucia, Pigeon Island was a separate isle until 1972, when a causeway linked it to the mainland for easy access. Once home to the infamous pirate Jambe de Bois, who used it as a base from which to ambush Spanish trade ships. These

SOUFRIÈRE

STOLENTIME BY RENDEZVOUS This is Saint Lucia’s most relaxing adultsonly beach-front resort. Set in beautiful gardens and along a lovely two-mile stretch of beach, StolenTime has a superb allinclusive offering; the focus on mind and body is a big draw here. The resort’s many repeat guests will tell you it’s the people who really make this place special, with some of the friendliest staff in Saint Lucia.

A B B OT T S T R AV E L 7 nights from £2,799 per person sharing a premium garden view room on all-inclusive.

Offer: Save up to 35%, stay 1 May-31 Oct 2024.

To book your holiday, contact Abbotts Travel, 134 George Lane, South Woodford, E18 1BA, on 020 8989 9445, or email info@abbottstravel.com

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INTERIORS

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OCCASIONS PHOTO: THE BEARDED PHOTOGRAPHERS

St Osyth Priory is one of Essex’s most historic estates - and thanks to a restoration project, many more can enjoy its beauty. Absolutely takes a closer look

THE INTERIORS HAVE BEEN PAINSTAKINGLY RESTORED

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ack in November 2022, Absolutely was invited along to the St Osyth Priory Estate Open Day. The Open Day gave guests the chance to take in views of the estate and explore the very latest progress in the revitalisation of this iconic landmark within the village of St Osyth.

At the centre of the estate is the 16th century Darcy House. Taking its name from the 1st Lord Darcy, Lord Chamberlain of the household under Edward VI, Darcy House has been the focal point of painstaking renovation and now features two beautifully restored function suites, each with the capacity for 110 seated guests.

During the Open Day, we had the chance to tour the estate as well as step inside Darcy House to experience the beautifully restored interior.

It certainly piqued our interest for what lay ahead for this historic site, so just over a year later, we revisited to chat to

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INTERIORS • FEATURE

managing director, William Grinsted, about the regeneration project, what it means for the site and what’s still to come.

Q What can you tell us about the origins of St Osyth Priory?

A The St Osyth Priory estate can trace its history back almost 1,400 years, to the legend that gives the estate its name Osgyth (or Osyth), who was an English saint who died in c700AD. Forced by her father into a dynastic marriage with the King of Essex, she produced a son. But her heart had always been set on a service to God. So, whilst her husband ran off to hunt down a beautiful white stag, Osyth persuaded two local bishops to accept her vows as a nun. After her husband’s death, she established a convent in the hamlet of Chich, which later took her name.

Q What have been the key

dates in its history?

A Through more than 14 centuries, St Osyth Priory has been a part of many key dates in

history. From the martyrdom of St Osyth which gave the priory its name, through to the granting of the estate to the 1st Lord Darcy, following the Dissolution of the Monasteries.

After the Dissolution of the Monasteries in the 16th century, St Osyth Priory continued to flourish as a country estate and was visited twice by Queen Elizabeth I during her Royal Progresse.

but rewarding work! The estate includes many Grade I and II listed buildings, therefore any building work, repairs etc can only be carried out with the knowledge and approval of the relevant authorities.

Matching period accurate techniques, identifying and sourcing authentic materials, along with any unforeseen discoveries, can present unique challenges.

Q When were restoration plans first discussed and how big an undertaking was it?

A The restoration plans have been many years in the making. The owners of St Osyth Priory were given permission in 2014 to build homes on the site. This development enabled funds to be generated, which lead towards the careful restoration of the many historical buildings throughout the estate.

Q When did you start?

A The development started in 2014, with

Q What were the biggest challenges you faced?

A Restoring historical buildings is challenging,

the West Field Lane houses, and continued through to Darcy House, Bailiffs Cottage and further buildings in the main precinct.

We are now working on the Gatehouse.

Q Internally, what were you looking to do?

A Our goal is to restore the estate to

its original beauty. Restoring these heritage buildings preserves history and ensures it’s never forgotten. The restored buildings can then be enjoyed and put to use by our guests and visitors.

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PHOTO: LIAM GILLAN

“We have used tradesmen who use specialist techniques”

IT IS NOW PERFECT FOR WEDDINGS

Q What are some of the key elements of design in the restoration?

A Throughout the entire restoration process thus far, we have used tradesmen who use specialist craftsmanship techniques. For example, the coat of arms on the gatehouse, which was first erected by Frederic Nassau de Zuylestein, 3rd Earl of Rochford in 1721.

Throughout the years, time and climate took its toll on the coat of arms and a painstaking restoration was required to bring the landmark back to life. Royal Master Carver, Paul Wilson, dedicated more than 1,000 hours of his highlyskilled craftsmanship to the transformation.

Q What has been completed?

A Darcy House was one of the first buildings

location for a wedding breakfast, with stunning views across the sprawling parkland.

Our expert wedding team are incredibly talented and they are passionate about creating magical days for our couples.

Q What wildlife could visitors encounter?

A A Registered Park and Garden County

Wildlife Site, the estate features historic lakes, woodland avenues and ancient reed beds. Country Retreats guests can explore the network of footpaths to discover rare breed livestock and native wildlife and birdlife. Guests may also be able to catch a glimpse of our iconic white deer!

Q Is the location perfect?

A St Osyth offers an idyllic rural escape

to the heart of the countryside – yet just minutes away from the ancient city of Colchester. Alongside the acres of treasured countryside, the estate is just five miles away from the Essex coast.

Q What's to come for St Osyth Priory?

A This is set to be a big year for us. It

will be our first full year, including many weddings and events, alongside further renovations throughout the estate. stosythpriory.co.uk

on the estate to be restored to its former glory, and is now home to two beautiful events spaces, each able to host 110 seated guests. Alongside this we have several elegant country retreats. In the future the estate will also be home to a hotel, a country pub, farm shop, spa and further country retreats, Q What does St Osyth Priory offer as a wedding venue?

A St Osyth Priory offers modern luxury, in historic surroundings. Within the magnificent grounds of our estate, couples are spoilt for choice when it comes to locations in which to stage their ceremony. From various outdoor locations, such as the North Lawn or Rose Garden, to the romantic, 900-year-old Abbotts Tower and the stunning Darcy House.

The Gallery in Darcy House is a beautiful

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INTERIORS • PARTNERSHIP

RECHARGE WITH

ORIGIN

A

How you can swim into serenity

s we step into 2024, the pursuit of holistic wellbeing takes centre stage.

This year, it’s about not just surviving but thriving in every facet of life. This priority comes in various forms; it could mean creating a family haven for enjoyment or crafting a personal sanctuary for relaxation. Fortunately, Origin stands ready to make your well-being dreams a reality.

Swimming isn’t just an activity; it’s a comprehensive approach to both physical and mental well-being.

Numerous studies have illuminated its profound impact on our health.

Regular swimmers have a reduced risk of heart disease, strokes, lower blood pressure, and diminished joint pain.

Remarkably, a SwimEngland study revealed that those who swim regularly felt an average of 12 years younger than their non-swimming counterparts. Swimming transcends mere exercise; it can also be a source of family joy or relaxation. Whatever your perspective, Origin can transform it into your reality.

Imagine having a sauna and steam room alongside your swimming pool, these spaces offer even more exceptional health benefits, including enhanced circulation, improved heart function, lowered disease risk, and effective muscle recovery. The serene and soothing ambience of saunas and steam rooms provides exceptional stress relief, promoting better sleep, overall wellness, and a mood boost through increased blood flow to the brain and the release of endorphins.

Origin’s legacy of excellence in bespoke indoor pool construction extends to over four decades. Their commitment to delivering award-winning pools has earned them industry accolades year after year.

With a wide variety of bespoke projects, Origin possesses the expertise to tailor your indoor pool to your unique needs, providing you with the confidence and freedom to relish the joy of swimming in the comfort of your home.

If you seek to begin your year on a positive note, place your trust in Origin to create an indoor pool aligned with your vision of well-being. Whether that results in a home gym, sauna, juice bar, fitness space or family lounging area, Origin’s team of experts manages every aspect of the process from concept to completion giving you a head start on the relaxation and mindfulness that will fill your home for many years to come.

Limited building slots are available, so contact Origin today and let them make 2024 the year of you.

originpools.co.uk info@originpools.co.uk 01895 453996 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS • TREND MINIFORMS Illo Coffee Table, £520 gomodern.co.uk

BOBBI BECK GINGER RAY Merry and Bright Dinner Candles, £7.95 gingerray.co.uk

Brown Geometric Zen Garden Pattern Wallpaper Mural, £32 bobbibeck.com

ROSE & GREY Braided Tulip Basket, £35 roseandgrey.co.uk

EDITOR’S PICK

EBB & FLOW Horizon Surface Wall Lamp, £279 limelace.co.uk

SAZY Rosta Stackable Aluminium Chair, £99 sazy.com

MERRY & BRIGHT Bold colours for a bit of new year cheer

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PALAVA Napkin Set Red Cave, £14.50 palava.co

BODE LIVING Duo Red Photo Frame, £22.50 bode-living.com

VARIER LIGNE ROSET HAY Neon Tube LED Light, £65 skandium.com

Coupole Table Lamp, £184 ariashop.co.uk

Ekstrem Chair in Knitted Velvet, £2,699 backinaction.co.uk

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INTERIORS • FOCUS

Heart home O F

T H E

Absolutely uncovers the design thinking behind this sparkling kitchen in Roxwell

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industrial features have been introduced via the metal pendant lights above the island and the black framing on the doors and windows.

The timeless cabinetry has been finished in Little Greene’s ‘Slaked Lime Mid’ and ‘Tea with Florence’ paints, which naturally provides different zones within the kitchen.

Complementing the white and blue palette is brushed chrome hardware and natural materials such as the dining table and Weathered Oak Farmhouse Stools.

With the sloped glass roof on one side, the homeowners opted for open shelving to provide a homely touch paired with a floor to ceiling pantry on the opposite side to maximise the available space. Featuring glass fronted cupboards, the homeowners chose this option to keep the feeling of light in the space.

The large kitchen island provides a focal point in the room and maximises the space further providing a convenient setup for breakfast, homework and relaxed catch-ups with friends – whilst quirky artwork and durable wood flooring finish the space, resulting in a seamless flow from end to end.

PHOTOS: CHRIS SNOOK

PHOTOS: CHRIS SNOOK PHOTOGRAPHY

“Part of the inspiration for the kitchen was the original exposed brick wall”

ocated in Roxwell in Essex, this unique extension is the perfect space for busy family living, boasting plenty of natural light, storage and areas for both cooking and entertaining.

Carefully designed to the highest standards by The Main Company’s expert team, the kitchen incorporates contemporary design while complementing the original features of the home.

Originally a small and narrow space, the homeowners chose to extend to the back of the property to ensure plenty of natural light would be provided. Featuring a sloped roof and large floor to ceiling sliding doors that lead into the garden, light certainly takes centre-stage.

Part of the inspiration for the kitchen was the original exposed brick wall. Characterful and textured, the wall brings a vintage and industrial element into the home, which contrasts beautifully with the modern colour palette and traditional shaker cabinetry. Further

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E D U C AT I O N

UNEARTHING POTENTIAL SAINT NICHOLAS SCHOOL

Children are at the heart of everything they do at Saint Nicholas. As a school, they pride themselves on recognising the uniqueness of each child, and it is their privilege to guide them on the road to discovering their talents. They fully utilise their outdoor grounds to provide an inspiring, educational experience and environment that is built for discovery and encourages a genuine passion for learning. saintnicholasschool.net

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LISA MCDONALD

Multiple

CHOICE Lisa McDonald, head of Woodford Green Prep School, on why a good prep education should be an option for all children

Q Tell us what makes Woodford

Green Prep School such a special place to work and learn?

A WGPS is simply a wonderful place to be!

There are happy and motivated children who enjoy a variety of learning experiences in a happy, warm and nurturing environment.

We have high aspirations for all of our pupils and there is a steady sense of academic ambition and scholarship with compromise on pupil wellbeing and development, breadth of opportunity and fun.

and respect lead the learning agenda.

The breadth of experiences that we offer pupils allows them all to excel and ignites a passion in a wealth of subject areas, taught by a highly experienced and committed team of specialist teachers. In the science lab, art studio, music room and sports field, pupils become intellectually curious, courageous and independently motivated learners. It’s about making sure that all children are supported and challenged to be successful.

Q Can you explain how the 7+

entrance process works?

A The school enjoys an excellent reputation

and we are fortunate enough to have a high volume of applications for Year 3 for a limited number of places. This enables us to begin to build relationships with prospective families early on as they look to make an important decision about their child’s education. Families can come to the school for a personal tour before the more formal

Q What would you say is the

first thing a visitor would notice when arriving at WGPS? A They would notice really happy children, with ready smiles, whose love for learning and their community is truly palpable.

Q Tell us about the key features of a

prep school education at WGPS?

A At Woodford Green, we are committed

ROSIE MCCOLL

to providing an innovative and broad ranging curriculum that enables our pupils to acquire knowledge and develop skills, alongside rich and stimulating real life experiences.

Wellbeing and personal development are at the core of all we do and pupils and staff work and learn in a happy and nurturing environment, where kindness

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“All parents should have the choice as to which type of school to select for their child” assessment process. Whilst this does involve assessments for maths and English, it’s also an opportunity for prospective pupils to experience life at the school by spending time in class. If a child has strengths in specific areas of the curriculum such as music, the Head of Department will also meet with the family to signpost the pathway to scholarship. We welcome enquiries from prospective 7+ applicants as early as possible in the year prior to transition.

environment in which their child will thrive.

We offer assisted places at 7+ to support parents with school fees. This is a means tested, external assessment following which various levels of financial assistance may be offered. We have supported a large number of families in recent years, with all children who leave WGPS in Year 6 gaining places at their senior school of choice.

Q You offer assisted places

pupils are kind, well rounded, and curious individuals with unique personalities. The school’s values-driven focus on personal development ensures that the pupils, alongside a knowledge rich curriculum, learn important skills and attributes like being resilient, reflective and principled that

too – how does that work?

A Prep school education is not exclusive.

I believe that all parents should have a choice as to which type of school to select for their child. Having that freedom of choice allows parents to select a school

Q What makes you swell with pride?

A The simple answer is the children! Our

enable them to approach life with confidence and care and an ability to understand perspectives other than their own.

Q Typically, where do your pupils head

off to once they leave the school?

A Our pupils move on to a wide range of senior

school settings, from grammar schools, to state schools and independent senior schools. We continue to be a main feeder school locally to Bancroft’s, Forest School and Chigwell School, as well as some of the top senior schools in London, such as City of London Boys, City of London Girls and Westminster. Senior school transition is much the same as choosing a primary setting; it’s about supporting parents to select the school that is the best fit for their child. wgprep.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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L E A D I N G T H E

WAY

Treehouse Nursery School’s branch Grove Montessori wins the NMT Teamwork Award after ‘Outstanding’ year of achievements

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reehouse Nursery Schools of Wanstead Village have three fantastic nursery settings and have been providing childcare for over 30 years since they opened as the only provider at the time in the area, in 1991. This year, their most recently opened branch, the Grove Montessori, has had an outstanding year of achievements that have culminated in their proud win of the Prestigious National Nursery NMT Teamwork award.

The Grove Montessori has gone from strength to strength since it was opened in 2020 amidst the pandemic. Since then the Grove Montessori has carved a legacy of excellence in childcare, nurturing young minds while embracing an ethos of community and teamwork. In 2023, their achievements have shone brighter than ever.

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

THE DESERVING WINNERS

“The nursery has created an environment where staff and their children can thrive” Compassionate Childcare and Charity Work

Ofsted 'Outstanding' Rating and Enriched Learning

April 18th marked a defining moment as The Grove received an Ofsted 'Outstanding' rating.

It is not surprising as within the walls of their beautifully converted church, the children are cared for in a sanctuary of fantastic facilities, a large feature fish tank offers tranquil moments, while an impressive garden and BBQ hut invite exploration and play and a family feel. Beyond the Montessori curriculum, the children are exposed to a rich tapestry of experiences; yoga, forest school escapades, Spanish lessons, cooking classes, music sessions, and daily community outings. Partnering with ‘London Healthy Early Years’ funded by the London Mayor’s initiative, the nursery serves healthy and delicious meals which are tailored to the seasons and religious celebrations.

The nursery setting celebrates cultural diversity and includes all religious festivals and awareness days while championing inclusivity and community engagement.

Treehouse Nursery Schools’ hearts beat with compassion, extending their hands in partnership with various charitable causes.

Their fundraising endeavours have supported local hospices and hospitals, and their recent collaboration with the RNIB during National Braille Week not only raised funds for the charity, but also educated the children about sight loss through sensory crafts, employing all senses but sight. The nurseries have also formed a partnership with their local care home where their children can enjoy various activities, and recently, the children from the Grove have been enjoying a monthly cinema club with the residents, while bridging the generational gap and promoting enriching bonds. Fuelling their own initiative, 'Raise Our Voice', the nurseries’ charity, champions the voices of children with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds, echoing the motto, 'Every Voice is Heard'.

Championing Sustainability and Gaining Eco-School Status

On July 14th, the Grove Montessori achieved Eco-School status, providing Treehouse with a full house of sustainable settings, and allowing them to exclusively fly the green flag as the only awarded providers in the borough.

Wooden, sustainable toys, and activities

complement the nursery’s commitment to instil environmental consciousness in their children. From rainwater collection to growing their own fruits and vegetables, the children learn the importance of horticulture and sustainability while appreciating home-grown treats in their cooking. Daily forest school trips with dedicated teachers reinforce their bond with nature as an enriching activity beyond the setting.

Triumph in Teamwork National NMT Teamwork Award The pinnacle of their achievements came together on November 25th as Treehouse Nursery School’s Grove Montessori branch was awarded the winners of the National NMT Teamwork Award. Attended by key staff, including the nursery manager Marie Ford, CEO Nazia Shabbir, and the founder and Managing Director, Maria Sanchez, they accredited their achievement to their ethos of providing mutual support for each other, and a listening ear for every staff member.

Praised by parents for their nurturing approach and their 'home from home' feel, the nursery’s emphasis on mental well-being, compassionate communication and an open working culture has created an environment where staff and their children can thrive. treehousenurseries.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • SEN

WHAT A

BRICK! Lego brick building clubs can be a game changer for neurodiverse children – helping them develop social skills, make friends and have a whole lot of fun

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any parents can testify to Lego’s incredible power to engage children in creative play for hours, even days, at a time. But now the tiny brick’s superpower is being put to educational use in a brilliantly constructive way for neurodiverse young people at Brick Club – a place to build, play and learn among like-minded friends.

Brick Club is the brainchild of Play Included, a Cambridgeshire-based community interest company and a LEGO Foundation partner. The idea began almost two decades back, when Play Included founder and director Dr Gina Gómez de la Cuesta was starting out her Clinical Psychology PhD at the Autism Research Centre in Cambridge. She heard about a pioneering Lego therapy methodology being devised in the US by Dr Dan LeGoff to support neurodiverse children and young adults – he’d been A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCA TION • SEN

DR GINA GOMEZ DE LA CUESTA

“You’ve got a joint focus on a task, so you don’t have to have forced conversation or small talk” in touch with the Autism Research Centre to tell them what he was up to.

This tied in with Gina’s own interests and research specialism and the use of Lego to support play and learning for neurodiverse children became the theme of her doctorate at UEA. Later, she went on to co-author the professional manual LEGO-Based Therapy with, among others, Dr Dan LeGoff. Fast forward to 2018 and she founded Bricks for Autism, now called Play Included.

Gina and her colleagues at Play Included run an innovative programme for health and education professionals. Called Brickby-Brick, it teaches them how to facilitate

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Brick Clubs. Everything they learn is evidence based, grounded in the thinking and approaches found in Lego-Based Therapy. “Since the company began, we’ve trained 3,886 professionals – teachers, health professionals, play therapists, psychologists, occupational therapists and other similar professions – and in 58 countries around the world,” says Gina.

Brick Club has proved to be versatile, scalable and transferable, working across different age groups, needs and settings (it’s typically recommended for age five up to adulthood). Recently, the team even undertook small-scale pilots in deprived areas of Mexico and Kenya and were

pleasantly surprised by the outcomes.

“There are some cultural adaptations and differences you’ve got to think about in different settings, but we’ve had really positive outcomes from those small pilots in Mexico and Kenya.”

What this programme teaches is a method of play facilitation that removes many of the key issues for neurodiverse children in group settings. Sessions at Brick Club are designed so they are flexible, meeting the needs and interests of the members. Sometimes children can play different roles (known as Engineer, Builder and Supplier). Or they can opt for ‘freestyle’ building in pairs or small groups. More advanced builders can have a go at stop-motion animation, coding and programming. Whatever the activity (and there are lots), they have the opportunity to take charge and start making decisions together.

What underpins Brick Club is, of course, the simple idea of play. This comes easily and naturally to most children, and it’s important for social and emotional development, but we know play is not easy for everyone.

But one of the many clever things about Brick Club is that neurodiverse children often come into their own with Lego bricks. “A lot of the kids already know Lego and they feel like it’s something they are good at,” says Gina.

“Often these kids are used to being

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NURSERY PREP SENIOR SIXTH FORM A CO-EDUCATIONAL INDEPENDENT THROUGH SCHOOL

Open Morning Saturday 16th March 2024

01787 474040 admissions@gosfieldschool.org.uk www.gosfieldschool.org.uk AD GOSFIELD SCHOOL.indd 97

Register here 13/12/2023 12:35

Saint Nicholas School • A co-educational day school for children from 3 months to 16 years • Strong academic ethos and excellent pastoral care

SAINT NICHOLAS

• Small class sizes Hillingdon House, Hobbs Cross Road, Old Harlow, Essex CM17 0NJ www.saintnicholasschool.net, 01279 429910 AD ST NICHOLAS.indd 98 St Nicholas School - Absolutely West Essex A4 Ad_Final.indd 1

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X X X X / X X X• XSEN XX EDUCATION

SESSIONS ARE LOW STRESS AND FLEXIBLE, REMOVING MANY OF THE BARRIERS NEURODIVERSE AND ANXIOUS CHILDREN CAN FACE IN SOCIAL AND PLAY SITUATIONS

“For facilitators to be able to say ‘wow, you’re really amazing at this’ is so positive”

told that they’re not very good at this or that and have to have extra help – but here is something that they are good at.”

So children who turn up for Brick Club are not faced with what Gina describes as that same old round of “negative stories”. Rather than being that child in need of extra help, Brick Club is highlighting what they can do. “This comes at it from a positive – it’s building on their strengths and what they like.”

While building things together is the fun bit, there’s a broader goal behind

it. Brick Club helps children socialise without those challenging moments inherent in so many other organised and spontaneous activities – the things that raise their anxiety levels. “You don’t have to have that face-to-face communication.

You’ve got a joint focus on a task – a physical thing – and you’re all looking at the instructions, so you don’t have to have forced conversation or small talk.”

For many children, this is a game changer – and so Brick Club is described as a low social anxiety situation for very good reason. It’s turn up, agree a task and get going. Gina remains impressed by the sheer skill demonstrated when they do get going. “The visual strengths of these kids are brilliant,” she says. “And for facilitators to be able to say ‘wow, you’re really amazing at this’ is so positive.”

Of course, along the way, children are building all sorts of useful life skills – teamwork, sharing, meeting new people, accepting different opinions, not getting upset when things go wrong. Building with bricks also builds strong friendships.

“They feel like they belong to the Club, that they’ve got friends who share similar interests. It’s just a natural way to play and work through developing these skills, using a skill they already have,” says Gina.

“Sometimes, Brick Club is the only positive thing that has happened in their week.”

For free play resources designed for neurodiverse children you can try at home, visit playincluded.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EDUCATION • NEWS

EDU CATION NEWS The latest news from schools across the county

Crack the code

GAME CHANGER Felsted School alumnus Max Malins made his Rugby World Cup debut in England’s clash with Chile as part of the starting XV, and in a match that earned England a 71-0 victory. Pictured while playing rugby for the school, he is one of eight former pupils – boys and girls – currently playing professional rugby.

Felsted offers children aged four to eighteen a first class all round education, based on a safe, rural 80 acre village campus in stunning North Essex. They welcome students from all over the world to appreciate a leading British boarding school education.

A variety of boarding options and day places are available to suit modern family life, with bus routes from across the region.

Founded in 1564, Felsted celebrated 50 years of coeducation in 2020 and they were also named Boarding School of the Year in 2023. felsted.org

“He is one of eight former pupils currently playing pro rugby”

Families, young people and adults were encouraged to download the Essex Year of Numbers app for a chance to win a daily festive prize through its advent competition.

The ‘Essex Year of…’ app was the latest free resource to be made available across the county as part of the £1.5M initiative launched to help people of all ages to thrive in numeracy.

Featuring free maths games, activities, resources and information on events coming up throughout the year, the app is available on both android and iOS devices. From Friday 1 December to Sunday 24 December, the app posed daily maths questions for children aged 7 to 15-years-old through a festive advent calendar.

By opening a new door each day, users had to crack the maths puzzle and submit the correct answer to

be in with a chance of winning the daily maths related prize.

The Essex Year of Numbers was launched in response to evidence produced by the charity National Numeracy that shows

a link between low numeracy skills and debt, unemployment, and even poor health. It also aims to close the grade gap for disadvantaged children in Essex. essexeducationtaskforce.org.uk

WA R M W E LC O M E In a touching Remembrance Day tribute, pupils from Foundation 1 to Year 6 at Woodford Green Prep School joined forces to create a poignant poppy field and wreaths, inspired by artists Paul Cummins and Tom Piper. From Foundation 1s inventive egg carton poppies to the intricate 3D creations

by Years 2-6, this collaborative art project paid homage to the historical significance of the Tower of London installation in 2014.

During a dedicated morning assembly, the entire school observed a moment of silence at 11am, and their Head Boy and Head Girl laid a wreath in the symbolic poppy field.

Known locally as the Red School because of the scarlet uniforms, Woodford Green Preparatory School was founded in 1932 to provide a non-denominational Christian education for boys and girls. wgprep.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Register now for 7+ Assessments Assisted Places from 7+ www.wgprep.co.uk

EXCELLENT IN ALL AREAS 0208 504 5045

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Independent Day School for 3-11 Years

admissions@wgprep.co.uk

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EDUCATION • PARTNERSHIP

STAR

STRUCK Local young performers from Stagecoach recently had their moment in the West End spotlight

O

n Sunday 26 November, 19 students between the ages of 15 and 18 from Stagecoach Performing Arts Chingford & Walthamstow took part in a performance at the prestigious Shaftesbury Theatre in the heart of London’s West End. The students had spent three months of weekly rehearsals perfecting their piece for the show, which was a specially devised mash-up with an American high school theme including material from musicals ‘Bring it On’ and ‘The Prom’ and having a message of inclusivity.

Principal Matthew Wing, an ex-musical theatre performer himself, says: “I know exactly what first night nerves feel like, and the thrill of looking out on a big stage, but the students were the consummate professionals,

taking the big occasion on a West End stage well in their stride. Their performance on the night was amazing, full of confidence and the rapturous response from the capacity audience was well deserved, an amazing experience and memories to treasure.”

Over the years, Stagecoach have seen more than one million students unlock their potential, which is something they will value for their whole life.

At Stagecoach they teach their students so much more than how to sing, dance and act. They help them blossom into well-rounded individuals, ready to embrace life and all its opportunities.

With 30 years’ experience in teaching the performing arts, they understand how to get the best out of their young performers. They delight in seeing their students have fun, make friends, learn new skills and discover hidden talents.

They encourage them to take ‘safe risks’ through rehearsals and performance, which brings out a willingness to take on new challenges. None of us know what the future holds, which is why it’s so important for today’s children to be resilient, brave and self-assured.

STAG E C OAC H For more information on Stagecoach Chingford & Walthamstow contact Principal Matthew Wing on 01234 709600 or email chingford@stagecoach.co.uk

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Almonds Avenue, Buckhurst Hill

Guide Price £995,000 Ideally situated in a quiet residential turning, perfectly located for well-respected state and independent schools, is this spacious four double bedroom detached property. The house offers enormous scope to both re-model and improve.

Features include a spacious lounge / dining room, kitchen / breakfast room, integral garage and a mature rear garden.

Thaxted Road, Buckhurst Hill

Offers in the Region of £630,000

A beautifully presented four bedroom, two bathroom family home which has been vastly improved by the present owners.

The accommodation is now arranged over three floors and the living space has been extended to create a stunning open plan kitchen / living space opening to the rear garden. The area is well served by both state and independent schools, and there are plenty of green spaces close by with Roding Valley Nature Reserve and Linders Field a short walk away.

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PROPERTY

KELVEDON HATCH CM15 ASKING PRICE

£2,750,000

urden & Hunt welcome to the market this five bedroom home. Standing in an idyllic setting of approx two acres of wooded landscaped grounds, the property provides spacious family accommodation including multiple reception rooms, a games room and a bespoke kitchen. The property also features two outbuildings, one with kitchen and bathroom, and a secure driveway.

D

DURDEN & HUNT

01277 402068 durdenandhunt.co.uk

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PROPERTY • FOCUS

MONEY CAN BUY… A listed village house, steeped in history, overlooking Writtle Green WHERE The Green, Writtle, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 3DT WHAT Greenbourne is available for the first time in nearly 40 years and is steeped in local history. Now it's a beautifully restored family home with many period features, exemplified by fireplaces, exposed timbers and a walled garden.

Greenbourne is listed Grade II. INSIDE The house flows very well with a beautiful sitting room taking centre stage with the remaining reception rooms and the kitchen surrounding. A fine hall and staircase separates two cosy reception rooms at the front and rear of the house, the latter with double doors and side lights onto the rear garden. The kitchen/breakfast room is a light-filled space overlooking the gardens. At the centre of the house and overlooking the village green is a beautiful sitting room, finished in period tones to complement the exposed timbers and a magnificent inglenook fireplace.

On the first floor, the bedrooms surround a spacious landing which includes stairs to the second floor. The principal bedroom is dual aspect, featuring a red-brick fireplace and a spacious en-suite split-level bathroom. There are four further spacious bedrooms, a further en-suite and a family bathroom.

OUTSIDE Behind the house, with access from the kitchen, is a large terrace, a lovely area for al fresco dining in the warmer months. There is a large area of lawn, edged with stocked beds and mature conifer columns which provide privacy.

On the opposite side is a raised BBQ area and at the rear an elevated section with access into the garage. A drive alongside the house leads to a parking area in front of the garage.

GUIDE PRICE £1,500,000 SELLING AGENT Savills Chelmsford 01245 269311 savills.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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PROPERTY • INSIGHT

NEW YO U

James Hunt, co-founder of Durden & Hunt, on why 2024 could be the perfect time to move home

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or many a new year sparks thoughts of fresh starts and the beginning of a new chapter, so could 2024 be the year to prioritise finding yourself a new home?

Typically, January is a busy time for the property market, Christmas priorities have calmed and perhaps the visiting of festive guests have shown the need for more, or indeed less, space. It has been widely reported that house prices are down, however the annual average asking price in November came in at only -1.3%.* Now, when you consider the rapid growth in prices over the last few years, this isn’t particularly negative and, in fact, October 2023 saw the monthly change in the national average asking price increase by 0.5%.* When it comes to mortgages, in November interest rates were, after months of increases, once again held at 5.25%** by the Bank of England and this helps to create both more product options and stability within the market. Why not chat to a mortgage broker to explore your options; we work with a fantastic team who we can put you in touch with.

If selling isn’t quite what you had in mind, but you’re keen to move, 2024 is set to be a good year for landlords with demand remaining strong and rents

remaining high. It seems due to the high prices in London, surrounding places in the South-East are very much in high demand. As a result, the average price of a month's rent has increased to more than £1,000 in cities and towns such as Southend-on-Sea, Luton, and Colchester.*** Perhaps renting your current property, generating a regular income, and purchasing your forever home could present the best of both worlds, if budgets allow.

As always, if you’re unsure what the new year might bring you and you’d like to discuss your options do get in touch.

On the market A very special conversion in the heart of Loughton High Road, Loughton, IG10

durdenandhunt.co.uk

Durden and Hunt welcome this exceptional five bedroom home to the rental market. Converted from a church warden's home, internally the property benefits from a large open plan kitchen and dining space, separate reception room, home office, utility, family bathroom and two en-suites. Externally the property offers a secure gated driveway and a well maintained garden.

(Sources * Rightmove, ** Bank Of England, ***Zoopla)

Asking price of £4,000pcm durdenandhunt.co.uk JAMES HUNT

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The Legal 500 results are in…

1

Top Tier Firm in

7

Recommended in

Practice Area

Practice Areas

4

Next Generation Partners 2024

6

Leading Individuals 2024

When it comes to your legal needs, one benefit of working with FJG is that we offer a full range of legal services for you, your family and your business, providing joined up thinking that keeps all of your legal affairs with one trusted firm.

Billericay

01277 623132

Clacton-on-Sea

01255 323103

Holland-on-Sea

01255 818900

Braintree

01376 552828

Colchester

01206 835300

London

0845 543 5700

Frinton-on-Sea

01255 514100

Sudbury

01787 373387

Chelmsford 01245 890110

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Contact one of our branches

01206 217552

Offices across Essex, Suffolk and London

info@fjg.co.uk www.fjg.co.uk

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

Wedded H A R M O N Y

Christmas proposal? Preserve the magic (and your wealth) with a pre-nuptial agreement, writes Attwaters Jameson Hill’s Belinda Strange

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et’s set the scene – the fire is roaring, the Christmas tree lights are twinkling and you’ve just got engaged at one of the most romantic times of the year. Then, someone suggests you get a pre-nup. What, you might think, a way to spoil the romance.

Well, at Attwaters Jameson Hill we don’t quite agree with this assessment. In fact, we believe that getting a pre-nuptial agreement is one of the best ways to establish intimacy, honesty and trust in your relationship.

WHAT IS A PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENT? BELINDA STRANGE

A pre-nuptial agreement is essentially a formal agreement between you and your spouse-tobe, in which you set out how you would like your finances to be divided upon divorce or separation. It is important to note that prenups (as they are informally known) aren’t legally binding in England and Wales, but a Court will usually abide by the agreement as long as it is perceived to be fair to both parties.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PRE-NUPTIAL AGREEMENTS? We find that clients who draw up a pre-nuptial agreement with us feel like they are going into their marriage with everything out in the open and the full peace of mind that their assets are protected should they ever get divorced.

A pre-nup can also reduce the stress, hostility and expense of divorce proceedings as all the decisions have already been made – and are much more likely to have been made based on rational thinking rather than anger or emotion.

A pre-nuptial agreement can be particularly useful where: • One of the parties is significantly wealthier than the other; • One or both of the parties has children from a previous marriage; • Debts have been accrued by one or both of the parties before marriage; • One or both of the parties has property that they want to retain in their sole name.

At the end of the day, we don’t take out life insurance or buildings insurance because we expect to die or think our house will burn down. We do it because, when faced with the minute possibility of those things happening, we’d rather have the peace of mind that we’re financially protected. Likewise, a pre-nuptial agreement should be seen not as a romance killer, but as an insurance policy – just in case.

If you got engaged over Christmas, firstly – congratulations! Secondly, should you be interested in exploring the benefits of a pre-nuptial agreement for your relationship, please do contact our Family Law team.

0330 221 8855 / familylaw@attwaters.co.uk A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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ABSOLUTELY • PARTNERSHIP

PHOTOS: EVERYTHING LOCAL NEWS / @ELNEWS_

HASLERS CHAIRMAN, JON O’SHEA, AND DAME ELEANOR LAING WITH PUPILS POPPY (LEFT) AND HOLLY (RIGHT)

HASLERS TOOK PART IN THE FRANK CHARLES GIVE A GIFT APPEAL

H

aslers Chartered Accountants were thrilled to announce its active participation in spreading joy and goodwill over the holiday season through various community initiatives. As part of its longstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility, Haslers is proud to support the Frank Charles Give a Gift Appeal, the annual Eleanor Laing Christmas Card Competition and donate festive chocolate selection boxes to Oak View School.

FRANK CHARLES GIVE A GIFT APPEAL In its ninth year of collaboration, Haslers once again joined forces with the Frank Charles Give a Gift Appeal, an initiative dedicated to bringing holiday joy to children spending Christmas as patients in Acorn Ward at Whipps Cross Hospital.

The team at Haslers generously donated to contribute to this heart-warming cause

Merry Christmas How Haslers spread festive cheer through community initiatives that support local causes

and once again joined Frank Charles in distributing the gifts to Acorn Ward.

ELEANOR LAING CHRISTMAS CARD COMPETITION Fostering creativity and community spirit, Haslers was once again honoured to participate in the Eleanor Laing Christmas Card Competition, an annual event that encourages artistic expression among local school children. The competition, endorsed by Dame Eleanor Laing, Member of Parliament, invites students to showcase their creative talents by designing Christmas cards. Haslers is proud to support the competition by sponsoring, fostering a sense of community spirit and celebrating the artistic achievements of the young participants. This year’s winner was Year 6 pupil Holly from Buckhurst Hill Community Primary School. Poppy, also in Year 6, earned a runners up prize.

OAK VIEW SCHOOL RECEIVES SWEET SURPRISES Recognising the importance of spreading joy

within the local school community, Haslers was pleased once again to donate chocolate selection boxes to the pupils of Oak View School – a school for children with special educational needs in Epping Forest.

This initiative aims to bring smiles to the faces of pupils, adding a touch of sweetness to their holiday celebrations.

A SEASON OF GIVING Haslers remains committed to making a positive impact in the community, especially during the holiday season, by participating in initiatives such as the Give a Gift Appeal, the Eleanor Laing Christmas Card Competition, and supporting Oak View School.

Haslers Chairman, Jon O’Shea, says: “These donations reinforces Haslers dedication to corporate social responsibility and underscores the true spirit of Christmas – giving, sharing, and bringing joy to those around us!”

haslers.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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LAST WORD • CULTURE

why everyone is talking about…

Mathew Baynton The Southend-born Ghosts co-creator, writer and performer is to appear in A Midsummer Night’s Dream

MATHEW BAYNTON

T

he Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) announced back in November that Mathew Baynton will play Bottom in a new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Directed by Eleanor Rhode, the show will run in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre between Tuesday 30 January and Saturday 30 March.

Mathew, known for co-creating, writing and starring as Thomas Thorne in Ghosts on BBC, and now seen as Fickelgruber in the film Wonka, will be making his RSC debut next year as one of Shakespeare’s most well-known comic characters. Mathew is also known for his many roles in Horrible Histories and for co-creating, writing and starring in the BBC’s The Wrong Mans.

On the role, Southend-born Mathew says: “I really couldn’t be more excited to be joining the cast of A Midsummer Night’s Dream at the RSC. I’ve always wanted to be part of a Shakespeare production and I’ve been hoping to return to the stage for quite some time too, so to be able to combine those two ambitions in one of the great ensemble comedies is a dream come true. Eleanor’s vision for the production sounds magical and Bottom is, of course, an absolute treat of a role, so I can’t wait to get started.”

The director said about the casting: “I’m thrilled to be returning to the RSC to direct A Midsummer Night’s Dream. It’s a play that made a big impact on me from a young age, and I’m excited to share it with a new generation of theatre-goers. Mathew Baynton is going to be an incredible Bottom – I’ve loved his work for years, and so it’s a real joy to be able to collaborate with him on bringing this magical play to life.”

On Midsummer’s Night, the real and fairy

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THE CAST OF GHOSTS

worlds collide. Four young lovers, faced with the prospect of unhappy marriage or worse, flee the court of Athens and stumble into an enchanted forest. Nearby, a group of amateur actors rehearse a play to celebrate an upcoming royal wedding.

As these mere mortals cross paths with a warring fairy King and Queen, chaos reigns in the natural world. The lines between reality and illusion start to blur and no-one but mischievous Puck knows what is true and what is magic.

This is just part of a hot streak for Mathew. In addition to the immense success of Ghosts, which returned in 2023 for its fifth series, Mathew is now starring in the hugely anticipated Wonka, a prequel of Roald Dahl’s famous chocolate creator starring Timothée Chalamet. rsc.org.uk

MATHEW HAS A ROLE IN THE TIMOTHÉE CHALAMET-STARRING WONKA

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