Absolutely Hertfordshire September 2021

HERTFORDSHIRE

Hertfordshire SEPTEMBER 2021 / £3.95

TIME MACHINE Take a whistlestop

SPECIAL News and views from all the best schools

tour of the museums of Hertfordshire

SEPTEMBER 2021

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Visiting Baldock's restaurant of the moment, Chez Burton

Put a smile on your child's face with the latest fashion from Angel & Rocket

Asha

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BANKS

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Why the actress and singer from St Albans is one to watch ST YLISH / INTELLIGENT / ELEGANT

24/08/2021 22:29

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

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ABSOLUTELY

Contents SEPTEMBER 2021

62

50 14

C U LT U R E ASHA BANKS

The St Albans star in the making

18

MATILDA SWINNEY

The Hertfordshire author to know

20 MUSEUM OF HERTS

A tour of our county's cultural hubs

FOOD & DRINK 28 KITCHEN CONFIDENTIAL News from the industry

30 CHEZ BURTON

The must-visit Baldock restaurant

41

DRINKS

The best picks for your cabinet

INTERIORS 44 NEWS & VIEWS

The latest from the industry

46 JENNY JUNIOR

The Herts designer on her career to date

50 BEDROOMS

Top trends for your comfort zone

30

FA S H I O N & B E A U T Y 60 TRENDS Why we should all double up

62 LEMONPEEL LONDON Meeting the wonderful Mrs Peel

66 THE SHOOT

Hertfordshire's Emma Willis sports the new season look from Next

A B S O L U T E LYH E R T F O R D S H I R E .C O. U K The online guide to inspirational living that helps you stay one step ahead of the crowd and gives you the chance to win exclusive prizes.

FA M I LY 82 MERRYTHOUGHT

The cuddly bear company we all love

84 ANGEL & ROCKET The latest looks for children

O N T H E C OV E R Asha Banks, photographed by Syriol Jones (wewillshootyousisters.com)

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Are you full of ideas for transforming your home but not sure where to start?

EDITOR MARK KEBBLE DIGITAL EDITOR LAYLA TURNER EDITORIAL ASSISTANT ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND ART DIRECTOR PAWEL KUBA SENIOR DESIGNERS MIKE ROBERTS SAMANTHA SCOTT

The Essential Home Design Guide will help you enjoy the process of designing your own home step-by-step.

MID-WEIGHT DESIGNER REBECCA NOONAN MAGAZINE MANAGER HAYLEY LANT FINANCIAL DIRECTOR JERRIE KOLECI

Through a combination of printed guides and online resources, you’ll learn:

CREDIT CONTROL MANAGER ALEXANDRA HVID

• The essential preparation and thinking that goes into a design project.

• Expert tips for making the most of your space.

• Professional advice on choosing a colour scheme, adding textures and using patterns.

• There is also advice on making it happen: smarter budgeting, ordering and how to work with the trades.

DIRECTORS CRAIG DAVIES, LEAH DAY, JAMES FUSCHILLO NON-EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR ALEXANDRA HUNTER MANAGING DIRECTOR SHERIF SHALTOUT

You’ll also get a designer’s toolkit delivered to your door and benefit from 1-2-1 support from Samantha as your project progresses.

ONLY

£

95 For editorial enquiries please email: mark@zest-media.com For advertising enquiries please call 07861 994435 or email: hayley@zest-media.com

Studio G06, Wenlock Studios, 50-52 Wharf Road, London N1 7EU; 020 7704 0588 Zest Media Publications Ltd. cannot accept responsibility for unsolicited submissions, manuscripts and photographs. While every care is taken, prices and details are subject to change and Zest Media Publications Ltd. take no responsibility for omissions or errors.

We reserve the right to publish and edit any letters.

All rights reserved.

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For more information visit samanthajohnsondesign.com/ essential-home-design-guide

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a b s o l u t e l y - h e r t fo r d s h i r e . c o . u k

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SHELLEY HAYLES

Welcome

4

The award-winning social worker and Herts local, Shelley Hayles, on building connections and standing up for what is right

THE E D I TO R’ S September issue highlights

1

Asha Banks

Meet the St Albans superstar

O

ne positive that has come out of the pandemic is a rebirth of community spirit between people. It is apparent that people are craving human connection, and the normality that was life before the pandemic.

I’m no activist, but I believe that we all have a responsibility to stand up and speak up for those who are unable to, and to challenge unjust things as we see them.

Pre-Covid, I would go abroad during the school holidays, but the pandemic has given me the opportunity to use this time to look at things closer to home and at addressing the gaps in provision for teenagers in St Albans.

The St Albans Youth Project is forward-looking and based on community, but drawing on the skills and expertise of qualified and skilled professionals. In order to produce long-lasting impact we cannot rely on philanthropy alone.

I have had some strong role models over the years and they’ve encouraged me to stand up for what I believe in.

It doesn’t make me popular, but I sleep well at night.

It's a cliché, but if you look around you can see that we are already creating new normals. What that looks like is up to us. LeeAnna’s Wish was founded in memory of my sister.

She cared deeply for others and always wanted to make the world a better and more equitable place and it’s been my goal to help forge her a legacy which benefits my local communities in Hertfordshire. I have lived in St Albans for my whole life. I am proud to call this place my home.

Emma Willis

Sporting the new season collection from Next

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Museums of Herts

We go behind the scenes of Hatfield House and more

2

Maaree

The Herts business giving support to women

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Wish LIST 10 things we Absolutely love COMPILED BY

L I L AC TIME

Aspiga's mission is to work responsibly towards a more socially and environmentally conscious future, putting people and the planet first. That’s why they only partner with ethical suppliers, using the best sustainable materials to design beautiful, contemporary and stylish pieces that are intended to last, such as this Carella embroidered organic cotton midi dress. £135 aspiga.com

PURPLE HAZE

The Tadi Blouse by Christian Wijnants comes in a classic check pattern, printed on a summer-ready lightweight fabric cut to a loose fit. It’s finished with a stand-up collar and tie-up details at the cuffs. £410 couvertureandthegarbstore.com

EDITOR’S PICK

U LT R A V I O L E T

G O W I T H T H E F LOW 'Henley 1870' is a new design that incapsulates Henley, the River and Hobbs. All hoodies and t-shirts are made from recycled materials. hobbsofhenley.com

Urbanears' Luma wireless headphones not only sound great and connect seamlessly, but they come in a wide range of unusual hues. Our favourite is this ultra violet. £79.99 urbanears.com

PENDLE HARTE

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24/08/2021 22:32

ABSOLUTELY • LOVES

C O L O U R WAY British designer Jessica Russell Flint creates vibrant, entirely unique hand-illustrated prints, with luxury products ranging across accessories, clothing, sleepwear and homeware.

Inspired by life’s eccentricities and with a love for colour and texture, Russell Flint transforms the ordinary into designs like you've never seen before. jessicarussellflint.co.uk

S TA R Q U A L I T Y

French brand Louisa Bracq is new to the fold at Amelie's Follies with its range of stylish shapes in all cup sizes ameliesfollies.co.uk

D R ES S TO IMPRESS

This stunning dress ring is crafted in 18ct white gold and features a beautiful marquise cut amethyst with a partial diamond set rub-over surround. £595 bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

LOCK D OW N

T WO TO N E

The new shade in Mustard's colourful locker collection is lilac. Here's the Lowdown in lilac. £249 mustardmade.com

Bella Freud's new Baby Blue jumper in merino wool with two colour jacquard is high on our autumn wishlist. £295 bellafreud.com

WRITE ON

The new collection reinvents Caran d'Ache's iconic 849 ballpoint pen with an array of new shades including this stylish violet. £39.99 papersmiths.co.uk

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BRING THE LITTLE ONES The unique experiences. The memories made.

The sound of laughter. The moments you treasure.

The ultimate staycation.

The Dorchester.

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LONDON +44 (0)20 7629 8888 DORCHESTERCOLLECTION.COM

#DCmoments TheDorchester TheDorchester TheDorchester

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C U LT U R E

WE’LL EAT AGAIN PUB IN THE PARK • 10-12 SEPTEMBER

Pub in the Park is returning to St Albans this month, bringing the band back together with amazing chefs, musicians, and artisanal producers. You’ll be able to tuck into tasty dishes from The Hand & Flowers, The Hardwick, The Green Man and others, before partying with friends to live performances from All Saints, Basement Jaxx (DJ set), Gabrielle, Lightning Seeds and more. They’re also throwing a party for the amazing key workers who have done so much for us all over the last 18 months. pubintheparkuk.com/st-albans

Agenda 12 • Asha Banks 14 • Museums of Hertfordshire 20 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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The Agenda

S E PT E M B E R ' S H OT T E ST H A P P E N I N G S

EV E N T

Ladies Who Lunch 2 September AUBREY PARK HOTEL This popular hotel in St Albans hold a regular Ladies Who Lunch event, an ideal opportunity for friends and acquaintances in the community to come together for the finest food and a good old natter. There is always a guest speaker too at the event, who will have a story or two to tell.

It's great to such community events back up and running again. aubreypark.co.uk

EV E N T

Petrolheadonism K NE BWO RTH H O US E • 18- 19 SEPTEMBER

With over 1,000 cars on display from Supercars to Classics, Americana to the Highly Modified, Petrolheadonism Live will also host a £50m+ Hypercar Enclosure in the shadows of Knebworth House. Over 50 car clubs are set to attend the event, so enthusiasts will see an incredible array of classics and modern classics to rival any automotive event. knebworthhouse.com

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F I L M

Nightflix 13 September-3 October M I LT O N K E Y N E S Grab your pretzels, biersteins and Lederhosen! NightFlix Drive-in cinema is bringing a taste of Germany to its Milton Keynes site with its first Oktoberfest festival. As part of the weeklong festivities, the venue will be showing beloved 80s classic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, famous for its German parade scene set to Twist and Shout by the Beatles. nightflix.co.uk

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27/08/2021 10:33

CULTURE • TALKING TOPICS

EV E N T

|The Chroniclers Until 31 October ST ALBANS MUSEUM & GALLERY The monks of St Albans produced a wide range of works taking in science, literature, and religious texts, but the monastery of St Albans became famous for the quality of its chronicles and their presentation. The breadth of coverage and detail of knowledge meant that these chronicles formed the basis for the modern history of medieval England. This exhibition brings together some of the finest examples of medieval manuscripts. stalbansmuseums.org.uk

PAST LIVES The pick of Herts events during Heritage Open Days

ROTHAMSTED MANOR

Rothamsted Manor is a stunningly beautiful Grade I listed manor house. Known as Hertfordshire’s hidden gem, the Manor sits in the historically significant Rothamsted Estate, home to some of the world’s oldest and most important agricultural research work. rothamstedenterprises.com

TA L KS

SPORTING LUNCHES

This Month’s Must See

Ongoing CA ST L E H OT E L Castle Hotel Windsor has announced its brand new series of ‘Sporting Lunches’, in which the team will be offering a series of exciting ticketed events to honour some very special guests. Kicking off the series on 24 September will be Nigel Owens, the world-famous former Welsh referee. castlehotelwindsor.com

ROTHAMSTED MANOR

BERKHAMSTED CASTLE

C U RTA I N U P! 16- 25 SEPTEMBER • ABBEY THEATRE

F

ive women inherit a rundown theatre and decide to put on a fundraising concert to revive its failing fortunes.

But because they are the wife, ex-wife, mother, daughter and secretary of the same man, teamwork is the last thing on their mind. Can they endure each other’s company long enough to agree about anything? Against the odds it seems their plan is about to succeed – but then disaster strikes... abbeytheatre.org.uk

Berkhamsted Castle Trust is offering free guided tours of Berkhamsted Castle, a typical Norman motte and bailey castle, built originally as a timber structure by William the Conqueror's half-brother, Robert of Mortain. It is considered to be the best remaining example of a motte and bailey castle in the country. berkhamstedcastle.org.uk

ST ALBANS CLOCK TOWER

Get a real sense of history as you climb the steps of the only medieval town belfry in England - admire the Victorian clock, the 600-yearold great bell, Gabriel, and the magnificent views of the Cathedral and the historic city of St Albans. stalbanshistory.org

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SYRIOL JONES (WEWILLSHOOTYOUSISTERS.COM)

“Being away from home reminds me how lovely St Albans is” 14

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25/08/2021 15:50

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

f i e l d

o f

D R E A M S Actress, singer, songwriter… There isn’t much Asha Banks can’t turn her hand to, but the St Albans local says this is just the beginning

By MARK KEBBLE

SYRIOL JONES (WEWILLSHOOTYOUSISTERS.COM)

I

t’s rather apt that, at the time of speaking to St Albans local Asha Banks, GCSE results across the country have just been announced. When I was 17, the most I had achieved was a solid set of GCSE exam results. Asha Banks?

It’s difficult to know where to start.

At the time of writing, Banks is busy filming for a hush-hush Netflix project, but to call her an actress does not do her incredible list of talents justice. This is someone who was on the West End stage at just eight years of age, took up guitar soon after, and appeared at Glastonbury at 15. Despite all this, it feels like 2021 is even busier.

“I am so excited at the moment because I am working a lot, so I know how lucky that makes me,” she says modestly. “So many people in the industry have had such a hard time over the past 18 months because of the pandemic, especially in the theatre world, so I am counting my blessings.”

Some will say you make your own luck and Banks certainly deserves everything

that is coming her way, with a work ethic that’s relentless and a personality that shows no fear. That’s apparent when considering another shoot that wrapped earlier this year after filming in Germany, taking the female lead in The Magic Flute.

“It’s a live action film produced by Roland Emmerich and Flute Films and is a modern re-telling of the famous Mozart opera,” Banks explains. “It follows a 17-year-old boy Tim, played by the incredible Jack Wolfe, as he goes to study at a prestigious music school in Austria, where he stumbles across a secret passageway that takes him into the world of The Magic Flute.

“I play Princess Pamina, who is a feisty and brave princess. Jack and I get to sing opera together, which was amazing. The film also stars Iwan Rheon from Game of Thrones who, as well as being a brilliant actor, is also an amazing singer. There are also some world-famous opera stars in the movie, and the Oscar winning actor F.Murray Abraham, so I did have to pinch myself a lot on set. The music is beautiful

– the film will sound as good as it looks.”

What was it like filming in Germany in the middle of a pandemic? “It was a bit scary,” she admits, “but Jack, Iwan and I became very close friends because we spent so much time together. The whole cast and crew were lovely and it was an exhilarating time for me because it was my first experience of a film set. Every day was a huge learning curve. I thought I would feel tremendous pressure playing a lead part in a movie, especially because I actually had six months of learning to sing classically in London before the filming started too. But when I got there everyone made me feel very relaxed about it and so I didn’t feel the pressure at all – I just enjoyed every second.”

Being away from home “reminds me how lovely St Albans is” Banks says, an area that she has lived in all her life. Once her current filming stint for Netflix comes to an end, she will find herself closer to home when she heads to the prestigious stage at the Almeida Theatre in Islington, London.

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25/08/2021 15:50

Brand New near Potters Bar

Potters Grange

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21/05/2021 16:30

CULTURE • INTERVIEW

SHE LOVES ST ALBANS' ROMAN RUINS

SHE'S A BIG FAN OF SUSHI

“I cannot wait to get back on a London stage,” she exclaims. “I’ve been a stage performer for more than half my life now and there is really no other feeling like it in the world.”

The Almeida will see a refresh of Spring Awakening, which Banks describes as “my favourite music soundtrack of all time” and looks like yet another pinch me moment. “I am still in shock that I am going to be in this production, and at the Almeida, and directed

by Rupert Goold… Rupert has such a big reputation in the industry as a stage director, and the movie he directed, Judy, also won an Oscar for its star Renee Zellweger. I was in the play 1984 at the Almeida in 2014, when I was ten-years-old, and it was one of the happiest experiences of my life. The Almeida puts on work of an incredibly high standard and I honestly can’t believe I’m going back to work there on my favourite musical.”

How does singing fit into her career?

“I’m really passionate about singing as well as acting,” she says diplomatically, “and I love writing songs and playing the guitar. I’ve always sung from when I was tiny, but when I was about eight my mum arranged for me to have guitar lessons in our local pub, Ye Olde Fighting Cocks in St Albans, with the pub manager, Martin, who is also a brilliant guitarist. I am so busy with my acting at the moment, but I really do want to progress my music as well if I possibly can. The dream is to play

“Performing at Glastonbury was an incredible experience” BANKS PLAYED AT GLASTONBURY AGED 15

my own stuff at live gigs and festivals.”

Which may well mean a return to Glastonbury one day. “As you can imagine that was an incredible experience,” she says about her foray to the legendary Somerset festival. “I was in a band, Angels N’ Bandits, at the time, who are still together and a great band. We played the Field of Avalon café and the atmosphere was insane! I am going to be working with a producer soon [recording some of her own tracks], who recently had a number one hit, and is so experienced. I’ve written a lot of songs over the lockdowns, so the difficulty will be choosing which ones to lay down.”

If you think this sounds like a busy schedule, according Banks you haven’t seen nothing yet. “I’m actually still at college, so I think when I leave next year I’ll be able to fit even more in,” she laughs. “I’d love to be in more big TV shows – I’d love to do a costume drama – and I’d adore to be in a big musical movie. My dream parts on the stage would be Eponine in Les Miserables and also Jenna in the musical, Waitress. My ideal future career is to do more stage work as well as film and TV acting, and put some of my own music out there… That’s the plan!”

If anyone can do it, Asha Banks can.

Spring Awakening runs from 30 November-22 January, 2022, at the Almeida. Tickets go on sale in September, see more at almeida.co.uk

WITH HER MAGIC FLUTE CO-STARS

Asha Banks’ S T A L BA N S S E L E C T I ON S What do you love about St Albans?

I love how close it is to London.

I have been travelling to and from London several times a week since I was eight-yearsold and got the part of young Eponine in Les Miserables in the West End, and so the fact that it’s so easy to get into London has been really important to me and my family. I also attended the MX Masterclass academy in London every Sunday when I was younger – it’s run by Michael Xavier, the actor and singer – so I was even in London at weekends!

I also love the fact that we have so much beautiful countryside around here and green space.

I also love the feel of St Albans city centre with its Tudor buildings and roman ruins. It has its own personality and its history is fascinating.

If you had to pick your three favourite places in the area, where would they be?

That’s a tough one! I live very close to Verulamium Park, which is just stunning and has been a big part of my life. I adore sushi so I love Sushi Mania. And finally I love the Odyssey, it’s an amazing place and the decor is incredible!

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Q Was a writing career always on the cards?

A Yes! I’ve wanted to be an author since as long as I can remember. I used to put extra effort into writing stories in school and I even started writing a book when I was nine, but never finished it.

Q Is it true you made the jump to start a writing career as lockdown was imposed?

A That’s true. My first baby was a year and a half old at that point. I’d stopped breastfeeding so had more time for myself. That’s when my partner encouraged me to write the book I’d been talking about for so long.

Get to know…

MATILDA SWINNEY AU T H O R

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Q What inspired The Texts Before We Met? A It's a prequel to the book I’ve been writing, The Girl Who Jumped, which will be out in January. I wanted to release a prequel to drum up excitement and give people a preview into the world of The Girl Who Jumped. The book is a short novelette made up of text messages. They’re real-life text messages taken from the seven days before the moment that changed my life forever.

Q And how does this link into The Girl Who Jumped?

A The Texts Before We Met ends where The Girl Who Jumped starts. The Girl Who Jumped is a classic novel length and is not made up of text messages. I do feature some within the story though, but it’s written in first person and is a romantic comedy. I like to think of it as Fifty Shades of Grey meets Bridget Jones’s Diary.

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24/08/2021 22:56

CULTURE • PROFILE

KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR THE TRAMPOLINES

BAKED GOODS ARE HIGH ON SWINNEY'S LIST

“I couldn't have survived lockdown without our daily walk to the lake” Q How would you sum up your writing style?

A My writing style is refreshingly honest and funny (I hope). I like using short sentences to create tension and pace. I want people to escape into the world of the book and feel the same magic and excitement I felt as I went along the journey of The Girl Who Jumped.

Q How long have you lived in St Albans?

A We’ve lived here since February 2018.

It’s an amazing place – in my opinion, it’s the best place to live in the UK. It’s a picturesque haven 20 minutes away from the centre of London. I still can’t get over just how close it is to the busiest city ever. You would never know. It’s so peaceful and beautiful.

Q What is your favourite thing about the area?

A My favourite thing about the area is the bustle and happiness during the weekend.

I feel like everyone makes the best of the gorgeous shops and cafes. I also love what a wonderful place it is for children.

There’s so many great classes and parks.

Q Have there been any outdoor spots that have been a godsend during the various lockdowns?

A I couldn’t have survived lockdown without our daily walk around the cathedral and down to the lake. The greenery and peace of the water made it possible to forget everything. No matter what was happening we knew we always had our daily walk.

Q Can you pick out three local haunts you can’t get enough of?

A We should have a Baked Nation subscription. We practically live there.

The guy who runs it is wonderful, he has baby daughters of his own, and the almond flat white is the best in St Albans. Plus, the garden at the back is a sun trap. The new café near the cathedral, Crunch, is beautiful too. I love the décor in there, it’s definitely a must-visit. And finally, Fitness First.

It’s the best gym I’ve been to. The staff always smile, the equipment’s wonderful and the yoga classes are so relaxing.

Q Do you have a local secret or any

YOGA AT FITNESS FIRST IS A MUST DO

interesting stories about where you live you are willing to reveal?

A We love going to the park near the cricket club. There’s lots to do and it’s been recently improved. Before the improvements I used to love attempting the monkey bars when no-one was looking.

I’d only get to the second bar, but I’m determined to do them all at some point!

And my final secret is the trampolines in Verulamium Park. I go with my toddler, but really I’m going for myself. It’s the best feeling in the world jumping on a trampoline. Once you stop feeling selfconscious, you’ll feel like you’re flying.

THE GIRL WHO JUMPED Find out more at MatildaSwinney.medium.com and thegirlwhojumped.com

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24/08/2021 22:56

HATFIELD HOUSE'S WONDERFUL SETTING

Rich P I CKING S As life in Hertfordshire returns to some degree of normality, there’s no better time to explore our cultural hotspots

By FRANCESCA CHINNERY

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24/08/2021 23:23

CULTURE • FEATURE

“It highlights the rich history and museums that Hertfordshire has to offer”

VERULAMIUM_MUSEUM

L

ast year, Hertfordshire celebrated the Year of Culture 2020. It promoted existing and new cultural opportunities across our county and supported the local community to take part. While the year certainly didn’t go to plan, it still highlighted the rich history and museums that Hertfordshire has to offer.

The new rules thanks to a pandemic have meant that we have all had to look closer to home for our next adventure.

Luckily, with restrictions now easing across the UK, Hertfordshire museums have a great programme of events and activities for families and children to enjoy.

St Albans Museum & Gallery have an exciting number of exhibitions coming up and family activities to get involved in.

Pandemic Portraits is running until 30 CREATIVE FUN AT ST ALBANS MUSEUM & GALLERY

September and showcases local people throughout the pandemic. Museum Minis is also running throughout SeptemberNovember, where children aged twofour-years old can get involved in a story, craft activity and museum hunt.

Verulamium Museum is running Tots Tales throughout September, October and into November for children between two to four-years old. They will have the opportunity to listen to a story, take part in a craft activity and go on a museum hunt. They are also running Heritage Open Days; a day where you can visit the museum for free on both Saturday 11 September and Saturday 18 September.

You can find out about one of the largest Roman cities in Britain and explore their mosaic and coin collection using their discovery areas and free activity sheets.

St Albans Cathedral, completed in 1115, holds a fascinating history. William the Conqueror commissioned a new church after the 1066 Norman Invasion. Since then, it has housed monks and noblemen whose discussions led to the Magna Carta. Children can follow the Tree Trail purchased from the shop and discover the ancient trees in the area and the tales they tell. Also available for £2 are the family friendly Explorer Trails taking you around the Cathedral. On your phones, you can also access their free digital tour to learn about the untold stories.

Not many people know that the Natural History Museum has a smaller museum in Tring. You can explore the zebras, Emperor penguin and the giant tortoise and wander round their endangered species and the Ice Age galleries. They also have some fantastic resources for children including an alphabet and an animal trail. In their current exhibition, Animal Mummies: What’s Inside, you can explore Egyptian animal mummies. You will have

NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM, TRING

the chance to see a sealed 2,400-year-old wooden cat coffin, learn how Egyptians preserved the animals after their death and try out an X-ray scanning machine.

At the British Schools Museum in Hitchin, you can explore the world’s last remaining Victorian Monitorial classroom and take part in Storytime Crafts on the second Saturday of every month.

Children will have the chance to listen to a story and a make and take activity.

North Hertfordshire Museum is hosting an exciting exhibition for children at the moment until 4 September 2021; The Tiger Who Came to Tea. Children can explore a play version of Sophie’s kitchen with a five-foot tiger. There will be tigerthemed activities and storytelling sessions.

Stroll through the gardens and wander the historic rooms at Knebworth House and Gardens. Outside, you can explore the maze, rose garden and count the turrets, domes and gothic gargoyles.

You can also explore the Dinosaur Trail A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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EXPLORE ST ALBANS CATHEDRAL LOOKING OUT TO KNEBWORTH HOUSE'S GARDENS

“Visit the tree that Queen Elizabeth I learnt of her accession to the throne” and find the 72 life-sized dinosaurs.

Inside, you can walk through 500 years of British History. Before you leave, try climbing the Watchman’s Tower.

While Hatfield House is closed from the end of August, you are still able to run around their West Garden, Park & Woodland Walks. You can explore the woods, smell the herbs and roses, try spotting some red deer and visit the tree that Queen Elizabeth I learnt of NORTH HERTS MUSEUM IS LOCATED NEXT TO HITCHIN TOWN HALL

her accession to the throne. Visit on 4 September and you will catch Tudor Legacies; a living history Tudor group that will tell you intriguing stories from the reign of Henry VIII. The Welwyn Roman Baths date back to the 3rd century and were discovered preserved under the A1 in 1960. Shortly after this, the announcement was made to build the motorway over the excavation site. Fortunately, you can still visit the baths through an accessible tunnel for the public.

Open on weekends, bank holidays and school holidays, your children can follow an engaging trail around the excavation site.

It’s clear that Hertfordshire has a varied and rich history to tell that stretches back far into the past, and after 18 months of the arts and culture sector being closed, it’s a great time to learn more about our local area and get involved in the engaging activities that are being held.

HATFIELD HOUSE

F R A N C E S CA C H I N N E RY Follow more museum adventures and cultural reviews on Instagram @francescainmuseums

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PROTECTING

NATURE At a time when we have all revelled in the countryside around us, we explore the vital work of the Chiltern Society

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CULTURE • OUTDOORS

“The Society has been on a 60year mission to conserve the landscape”

O

ne shared experience of the past 18 months must be our intensified connection with nature. People have found strength and comfort in the stunning countryside that makes the Chilterns – the 650 square miles of iconic rolling hills stretching from Hitchin in Hertfordshire to Goringon-Thames in Oxfordshire – so special.

The consequences of this connection are far-reaching and not yet clear. More people are ‘hybrid working’, meaning we can live away from the urban sprawl,

driving the demand for new housing and infrastructure. And our desire to be outdoors has given nature reserves and landowners alike the chance to promote the Countryside Code to new visitors.

These opportunities – and contradictions – this presents are not lost on charities including the Chiltern Society, which has been on a 60-year mission to campaign for, promote and conserve this remarkable landscape.

The charity manages 12 conservation sites and has an army of volunteers who work with partners to maintain and improve green spaces, footpaths and heritage sites across the Chilterns.

“Covid-19 has changed the way we work, travel and spend our free time,” says Tom Beeston, chief officer at the Chiltern Society. “We believe there is a chance to put nature at the centre of our ‘new normal’.

It is possible to tackle the risks facing the Chilterns, while bringing growing urban and rural communities closer to nature.”

The Chiltern Society has recently responded to the Three Rivers Local Plan, appealing to the council to use it to make a bolder commitment to Biodiversity Net Gain, nature recovery and reducing the impacts of climate change. While applauding the plan’s proposal to make use of existing built-up areas, the charity’s Planning Group has raised concerns about the huge amount of Green Belt proposed for release to development, with specific objections to large developments on sites to be removed from the Green Belt at Maple Cross, Mill End, Kings

Langley, and Batchworth Golf Course.

Yet Beeston is positive. “Chiltern Society’s committed and informed force of members and volunteers are making the difference,” he says. “Whether it’s businesses seeking advice to reduce their carbon footprint or our volunteers improving nature reserves and reviewing planning applications, we are lucky people living here care so passionately and want to work together to connect with and protect our countryside.”

C H I LT E R N S O C I E T Y As a charity, the Chiltern Society relies on the generosity of its members and dedication of its volunteers. If you want to get involved with the Chiltern Society’s work or become a member to ensure it can continue tackling these evolving challenges, visit chilternsociety.org.uk

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JOHN LADBURY Beautiful Handcrafted Kitchens

DESIGN • BUILD • INSTALLATION 40 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

01707 262966 | WWW.JOHNLADBURY.CO.UK Showroom: UNIT 11 ALPHA BUSINESS PARK, TRAVELLERS CLOSE, WELHAM GREEN AL9 7NT

JL.indd 2

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FOOD & DRINK

ONE TO SAVOUR PUDDINGSTONE DISTILLERY

Balance and patience are key to crafting the adaptable, multi-awardwinning Campfire Cask Aged Gin from Hertfordshire distillery, Puddingstone Distillery. The dominant gin notes of juniper, citrus and coriander seed are infused with a hint of caramel, fruity bourbon and vanilla. Available direct from the distillery shop open on Fridays and Saturdays or online. puddingstonedistillery.com

Food Notes 28 • Chez Burton 30 • Recipes 34 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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24/08/2021 23:32

WHAT TO DRINK

IN THE spirit Gin recommendations for the month

TASTING NOTES

The latest food news and most exciting openings this month

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

By MR HOBBS

Mr Hobbs 150 Gin 70cl 40% ABV  £34 Mr Hobbs 150 is a classic London Dry Gin with quintessential English heritage, which marks the 150-year anniversary of the family owned, British boating institution; Hobbs of Henley. The award-winner is bursting with nine botanicals, making a serious gin that will leave you wanting more.

Rhubarb & Ginger Gin Liqueur 50cl 21.5% ABV  £25 Blended with the very best British rhubarb to produce a perfectly balanced gin liqueur.

Summer fruits and herbs on the nose with well-rounded ginger notes and plenty of rhubarb on the palate. The perfect addition to any drinks cabinet, this is an exceptional base for seasonal cocktails, sparkling or otherwise.

Raspberry & Elderflower Gin Liqueur 50cl 21.5% ABV  £25 Fresh British raspberries have been introduced into this intensely flavoured gin liqueur. The nose is full of ripe berries which continue onto the palate before a long and refreshing elderflower finish. An ideal accompaniment to Prosecco but just as delicious with soda or tonic water.

The Mr Hobbs Gin range of products is brought to you by the family pleasure boating business, Hobbs of Henley, who give you the most enjoyable way to “mess about on the river’’. Today they are very proud to share their cherished family tipples with you and raise a glass to their Henley heritage.

mrhobbsgin.co.uk

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Welcome return ST A L B A N S F O O D & F E ST I VA L

The St Albans Food & Drink festival, now in its 14th year, features an exciting programme of events across September including Tom Kerridge’s Pub in the Park, Stars at the Bars and the Oaklands Farm to Fork. St Albans has a remarkable history and reputation for food and drink, and the month-long event is hugely popular with locals and visitors looking for an incredible foodie experience that they won't forget any time soon. enjoystalbans.com

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FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

MEAT YOUR MATCH Enjoy the best burgers in town

PIE IN THE SKY T H E M E AT I N G R O O M

Tuck in

THE IVY ST ALBANS BRASSERIE

A gourmet burger experience in the heart of St Albans – what more could we ask for? The menu, though simple, is quality focused as they are passionate about good food. Their 100% traceable British beef burgers are hand pressed daily, never frozen. meating-room.co.uk

With autumn just around the corner, The Ivy St Albans Brasserie is delighted to be adding an array of new and exciting dishes to its already extensive menu. From grilled sea bass to braised pork cheeks, and a sticky toffee pudding added as a delectable choice to end proceedings, be sure to enjoy what The Ivy St Albans Brasserie has to offer this season. theivystalbans.com

TRING BREWERY

Tring Brewery are thrilled to showcase an exclusive matchday pie prepared by Willy’s Pies and served at Watford FC’s Vicarage Road stadium. ‘Beef Brisket & Tring Ale Pie’ will be sold throughout the home-end of the hornet’s stadium and has been made using premium brisket chunks, delicious flaky pastry and Tring Brewery’s ‘Death or Glory’ barleywine. tringbrewery.co.uk

RELISH REAL BURGERS Relish Real Burgers was born in the heart of St Albans in 2014 and to spread the Relish experience further, they opened the second Relish restaurant in Potters Bar in 2016. They have ten different varieties of burgers to choose from, so even the most picky will leave happy and satisfied. relishrealburgers.co.uk

H I T

BULLSEYE

Balance the budget SORTEDFOOD

SORTEDfood is a social media movement dedicated to cooking, and the perfect option for students in search of tasty, easy to cook meals on a budget. With Herts-based co-founders behind it, they have the mission to empower people with the passion, knowledge, skills and tools so that they can confidently cook with whatever they have available. sorted.club

T H E

THE BULL INN

ARNOLDS DINER Since changing ownership in August 2017, Arnolds American Diner has become the hottest diner in Hertfordshire and is ranked as the best venue for ribs in the county according to TripAdvisor. It has an authentic themed décor with an original working 50s jukebox – oh, and the burgers are pretty good too. arnoldsdiner.co.uk

Hertfordshire's fastestgrowing, award-winning brewery pub group has expanded the number of pubs in its portfolio to six with the full opening of The Bull Inn in Whitwell. Farr Brew now runs six pubs across Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire. farrbrew.com A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Little BIG IDEA Open for just over a month, Chez Burton is taking Baldock by storm. Co-founder Neill Burton explains why small plates have had a huge impact

By MARK KEBBLE

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FOOD & DRINK • PROFILE

W

e have all probably drunk more than we should during the various lockdowns, but for husband-andwife team, Neill and Jacqui Burton, one too many proved to be inspiration for a life-changing event. “The journey started on 15 February,” picks up the former. “We were on a beach drinking way too many pina coladas and thought, ‘what’s the worst that can happen?’ We have always been excited about the idea of having our own bar/restaurant that we could recreate all of the things that are good from the places we have visited. There was never a starting point to this idea, I guess it only became a reality when we saw the premises up for sale and thought, ‘why not?’”

The premises in question was on the high street in Baldock, and despite not having a background in the industry – “Unless you count the fact that we are proper foodies and love great cocktails and wine,” Neill points out – the duo knew the kind of restaurant they wanted to bring to the area.

“That fine dining, small plates experience,” he says. “Where every dish is ‘wow’, but in an environment that is informal, relaxed and fun. A place where everything presented to you is Instagrammable, but you feel comfortable to laugh out loud, have one too many wines and generally let yourself go – something you very rarely get in formal fine dining restaurants.”

It sounds like that friend who has a wonderful house and can cook too, and who hosts unforgettable dinner parties – which is perhaps why the name of the restaurant, Chez Burton, isn’t too surprising. They

DRINKS ARE A KEY OFFERING

JACQUI AND NEILL BURTON

picked up the keys to the site only in April and set to work straight away on devising a menu that would indeed be unforgettable.

“The principle of small plates is quite new, and we found that we had to describe it to people before they fully understood,” Neill says. “It’s a bit like tapas in that you order multiple plates of food for sharing, but it’s not Mediterranean food, was what we found ourselves saying. We like to try everything. Food to us is not fuel, it’s an experience. The small plates idea allows people to experiment with lots of different things in the same sitting. We want to give people the freedom to try things that they wouldn’t necessarily be brave enough to order in a traditional ‘starter, main, dessert’ style restaurant. And with that principle understood, the menu came thick and fast.”

Adrian Parker was brought in as head chef to come up with the dishes to dazzle.

“He has been a friend of ours ever since we found him at a local tapas restaurant,” Neill says. “He has a crazy imagination and his attention to detail is off the scale.

His remit was simple: create dishes that delight the eye as well as the tastebuds.

We tried dozens of options before settling on the opening menu. Certain things were easy to pick: the crab croquettes are a masterpiece, the miso cod cheeks with sake beurre blanc a no-brainer, so too were the duck fat chips. We dropped certain dishes because although the taste was exquisite, they wouldn’t light up your Instagram, so we are still developing new additions.”

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FOOD & DRINK • PROFILE

CHEZ BURTON IS ALL ABOUT SMALL PLATES

Drinks, too, are key to the Chez Burton offering. “Remember, pina coladas were the reason behind us jumping into this in the first place,” Neill laughs. “Food and drink to us are inseparable and we wanted to be known as a place that you can drop in for amazing cocktails and wine as much as great dishes. We are big cocktail fans and had a clear remit in this department: classic cocktails, but with a Chez Burton twist.

This is one area that Baldock really helped us in. Richard, our bar manager, came to us from running local cocktail bars, and the amazing mixology consultant, Harp Mann, a Baldock local, walked in one day to offer his services. Between them, they have created a cocktail menu that is unique in using an exclusive list of Cuban rums, Siberian vodkas, and all manner of special potions and essences. Everything associated with Chez Burton must have a story.”

It hasn’t taken them too long to get the word out. At the time of this interview, Chez Burton had been open for nine days and they “have been overwhelmed by the response from the local community”, with foodies flocking to the restaurant in their droves. “We appreciate that we are a new business in Baldock and the initial interest is one of curiosity,” Neill considers, “but we are now seeing the same faces coming back

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“We like to try everything. Food to us is not fuel, it’s an experience.

Everything associated with Chez Burton must have a story” in, so we take that as they have enjoyed what they experienced and that is so gratifying.”

It’s not often you hear about a business that zips through from initial concept to final result – and having to contend with a pandemic in the background no less – but Chez Burton has clearly touched a nerve.

“We are enjoying every moment,” Neill says. “We learn lessons every day and make small improvements to ensure our guests’ experience is nothing less than perfect.

We have no time to relax yet, but we do have half an eye on the future. We have a few projects that form ‘phase 2 and phase 3’ for Chez Burton Baldock, but we will keep them secret until the time is right.”

Best pour some more pina coladas.

C H E Z B U R TO N 48 The High Street, Baldock, SG7 6BJ 01462 896 180 • chezburton.com

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Judges Restaurant offers modern eclectic British & European dining and a Cocktail Bar

There’s nothing quite like lunch in the sunshine.

We offer alfresco dining serving the finest food and cocktails.

1 Judges Hill, Northaw, Potters Bar EN6 4NL 01707 802104 www.judgesrestaurant.com

JUDGES.indd 1

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FOOD & DRINK • PARTNERSHIP

O N T H E M E N U Here is a selection of the unique eateries to be found at Christopher Place in the heart of St Albans

THE PUDDING STOP

HONEST BURGERS

“The vegan sticky ribs have become a firm favourite for their plant-based guests and meat lovers alike” THE PUDDING STOP

The Pudding Stop specialise in handmade puddings that are baked fresh in-store, and delivered to your door.

Throughout the day their counter is stocked and replenished with freshly baked goods from the bakery.

Their bakers set to work early each morning proving dough, rolling, frying and filling doughnuts, baking brownies, blowtorching lemon meringue pies and sugaring cinnamon buns.

LEAFY Leafy are a Scandinavian-influenced salad bar, where you can create your own salad bowls that aren’t just healthy, but delicious too! Neither do they forget about your morning ‘must haves’ with build your own breakfast granola bowls and a variety of amazing coffees, juices and smoothies.

HONEST BURGERS Honest Burgers is a nationwide chain that makes incredible British burgers, with an emphasis on celebrating and collaborating with local businesses.

They have the locally brewed Sumo Pale Ale from Mad Squirrel on tap, and celebrate our local cuisine with their St

WAGAMAMA

LEAFY

Albans Burger, in collaboration with The Bishop's Cave. The mouth-watering burger is made up of Honest beef, pancetta, truffled taleggio, shoestring fries, honey-dijon mayo, watercress, and balsamic pickles, served with homemade rosemary salted chips.

WAGAMAMA This January, Wagamama launched their biggest vegan menu to date, including your new favourite plant-based partner, the vegan sticky ribs. Mushroom & soya protein ‘ribs’, coated in sweet & spicy sticky sauce, garnished with sesame seeds & fresh spring onion. Wagamama’s vegan sticky ribs have become a firm favourite for their plant-based guests and meat lovers alike.

Plus you can now enjoy the eagerly awaited, in-restaurant exclusive, vegan chilli squid. Do believe the hype!

Lightly battered pulled king oyster mushrooms, coated in shichimi and served with a sticky dipping sauce.

C H R I STO P H E R P L AC E To find out more about their restaurants, plus what else Christopher Place can offer you, visit christopher-place.co.uk

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Serving

ST Y LE Alex Head from The Social Pantry's recipes for Falcon Enamelware Wo r d s A L E X H E A D

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24/08/2021 23:50

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

Brussel Sprout Taco with Smokey Chipotle Serves 6

INGREDIENTS • 400g Brussel sprouts, prepped and cut in half • 2 tsp chipotle chilli paste • 3 tbsp soured cream • ½ red onion • 100ml white wine vinegar • 50ml water • 25g sugar • 1 lime, cut into wedges • 1 tsp honey • 1-2 green chilli, thinly sliced • 1 bunch coriander, chopped • 25g roasted peanuts, roughly chopped • 6 small tortilla wraps • Light olive oil • Sea salt

METHOD 1 To make the pickling liquor, combine the vinegar, water and sugar in a small pan. Heat gently to dissolve the sugar before turning the heat up. When the pickling liquor comes to a simmer, remove from the heat.

2 Slice the red onion thinly from root to tip, place in a heatproof bowl and pour over the still warm liquor. Allow to cool at room temp.

3 To make the chipotle soured cream, mix 1 tsp of the chipotle paste into the soured cream and set aside.

4 In a non-stick frying pan, heat 2 tbsp oil on a medium-high heat and fry the brussels sprouts until golden, after 3-5 minutes add in a splash of water, 1 tsp chipotle paste and the honey. Mix well on the heat for another minute, then season well with sea salt.

5 Warm the tacos in a dry pan and drain the pickled red onion.

6 Build the tacos by layering up chipotle soured cream, sprouts, green chilli, red onion, coriander and finish with a squeeze of lime and chopped peanuts.

7 Enjoy!

METHOD

Roasted Broccoli Steak

with Zero Waste Herb Stem Chimichurri Serves 8 – 10

INGREDIENTS • 2 heads of broccoli • 1 banana shallot, finely diced • 2 green chilli, finely diced • 1 bunch parsley, chopped • 1 tsp red wine vinegar • 3 tsp olive oil for the dressing, plus extra to cook the broccoli • Maldon salt • 25g toasted sunflower seeds, roughly chopped • 50g fresh spinach leaves

1 Cut each broccoli in half directly through the stalk. Then cut down the side to trim off excess florets so that the steak sits flat as a piece.

Keep the trimmings and set aside.

2 Mix together the shallot, green chilli, parsley and sunflower seeds, season with lemon zest, juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil and salt. Set aside.

3 Preheat the oven to 160C fan and heat up a griddle pan until it is really hot.

4 Cook the broccoli trimmings in a little veg stock until soft, drain (reserving the liquid) and blend with the spinach to keep it a bright green.

Season and place in a bowl over ice to cool down as quickly as possible.

5 Once the grill is hot, drizzle the broccoli with a little oil and salt and chargrill the broccoli steaks until they have deep black lines on either side.

Place on a baking tray on baking paper and cook in the oven for 8-10 minutes.

6 To serve the broccoli steaks, spoon on some broccoli puree, and chimichurri and garnish.

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CAMPFIRE GIN

From the Distillery of the Year 2021 The multi-award winning gin range to share with friends around the campfire.

Visit Puddingstone Distillery on Fridays & Saturdays for gin tastings FREE delivery on orders over £35 at puddingstonedistillery.com Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 4NT

• HALVES QUARTERS_USE.indd 2

CAMPFIRE GIN SHOP TAS TINGS TOUR EVENINGS EVENTS

26/08/2021 18:35

FOOD & DRINK • RECIPES

INGREDIENTS

Wild Rice with Sautéed Leeks, Green Beans, Summer Pea and Pesto (salad) Serves 8 – 10

• 2 cups wild rice • 6 cups of water • Maldon salt • 1 large leek • 250g green beans • 1 pack, frozen peas • 1 tub green pesto • 1 bag rocket

METHOD 1 Firstly, rinse the rice under cold running water until the water runs completely clear. Place the rice and cover with 3x as much water and 1 tsp salt; using cups is an easy way to measure.

2 Cover with a lid and place on a medium-high heat, bring to a

simmer and cook for 40-45 minutes.

3 Meanwhile, slice the leek and sauté slowly in a pan with olive oil and salt until soft 15-20 minutes. Set aside to cool.

4 Prepare a bowl of iced water.

5 Put a pan of salted water onto the boil, prep the green beans and asparagus tips, and blanch for 2 minutes. Add the frozen peas right at the end for 30 seconds and drain. Refresh in the iced water.

6 When ready to mix the salad, coat the wild rice in the pesto, mix in the cooked, cooled veg.

7 Add rocket and serve.

falconenamelware.com

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PLEASE COME AND VISIT OUR

BREWERY SHOP WEB SHOP AND NOW YOU CAN ALSO ORDER

ONLINE AT OUR

 DRAUGHT & BOTTLED BEER TO TAKEAWAY  LIMITED EDITION BREWS  EXPERIMENTAL BREWS  GIFT VOUCHERS  T-SHIRTS & GOODIES  GOLDEN TOAD MEMBERSHIP  PICKLES & PRESERVES  BREWERY TOURS In 2021 our Monthly Specials will be raising funds and awareness for Chilterns Dog Rescue Society.

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24/06/2021 18/06/2021 21:50 11:12

FOOD & DRINK • NOTES

DRINKS CABINET What to drink this month

By PENDLE HARTE

REVIEW

KEY NOTES N O. 3 G I N No.3 Gin’s refreshing balance of juniper, citrus and spice makes it the perfect addition to this season’s drinking occasions. As the only gin to have been awarded World’s Best Gin four times, No.3 promises a superior taste experience, every time. From garden parties to sundowners, these crisp cocktails are bursting with flavour, simple to make, and sure to impress.

£36; no3gin.com

FRENCH SPRITZ ST G E R M A I N Known as the 'barman's ketchup' for its versatility, St Germain is said to improve any cocktail. This elegant elderflower liqueur contains as many as 1,000 elderflowers per bottle and it makes a mean spritz.

Cocktail o’clock

The Mayfair Townhouse x Acqua dei Parma

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

T

he super stylish Dandy Bar in The Mayfair Townhouse is mixing cocktails inspired by a new partnership between Möet Hennessey and Acqua di Parma.

Named for the dandy characters of Mayfair’s past and present, the enigmatic yet intimately cosy atmosphere of the Dandy Bar is an exceptional space that is certainly worth the journey in from Hertfordshire. Effervescent Italian bar manager Pierpaolo Monaco has carefully created a selection of new cocktails inspired by the summer fragrances of Acqua di Parma's Blu Mediterraneo range and the liqueurs and champagnes of Möet Hennessy, including the Amalfi (paired with Fico di Amalfi), Calabria (paired with Bergamotto di Calabria), and Capri (paired with Arancia di Capri). You will also receive a complimentary sample of each fragrance and an invitation for a complimentary fragrance consultation at the Acqua di Parma Barbershop at Selfridges, complete with a special gift.

AMALFI COCKTAIL RECIPE

£25.99; stgermain.fr

CAUSE A STIR

LO C K D OW N L I Q U O R New to Lockdown Liquor's fold of smallbatch, premium blended cocktails is the delicious lychee Martini - silky, not too sweet nor too strong, it's a joy to sip. Add a whole lychee for the full effect.

£25 for 500ml; lockdown-liquor.com

Pour the below ingredients: - 30ml Sabatini Gin - 25ml Mancino Amaranto - 25ml Fig Liquor (Brand from Ischia Island) - 4 Drops of Coffee Bean • Top off with soda.

• Serve in a champagne coupe and enjoy.

THE MAYFAIR TOWNHOUSE 27-41 Half Moon Street, W1 themayfairtownhouse.com

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Poggenpohl St. Albans 100 London Road St. Albans | Hertfordshire | AL1 1NX phone 01727 738 111 stalbans@poggenpohl.com www.stalbans.poggenpohl.com

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INTERIORS

H OT DES K J O N AT H A N A D L E R

Working from home is no reason to give up on style, as Jonathan Adler's Channing Desk shows. The name says it all: a reference to Margo Channing, Bette Davis's character in All About Eve. The sleek silhouette is fabulous for a small space. £1,950. jonathanadler.com

Interior News 42 • Jenny Junior 44 • Bedrooms 48 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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INTERIORS NOT E S Ideas, designs and styles for your home

By PENDLE HARTE

SILK CUT BEAUVAMP

BeauVamp is an independent, British lighting brand specialising in traditional hand stitched, silk lampshades, combining traditional sewing techniques with vintage-inspired design and contemporary style.

Founder Alice offers a completely new take on the old fashioned lampshade, drawing and designing her own shapes into humble, hand-sewn lampshades of the early 1900s. beauvamp.com

MAN OF PARTS

The Man of Parts collection is intended to reflect a contemporary way of living, rather than a single aesthetic and features products by a selection of the world's leading designers including Yabu Pushelberg, whose Via del Corso chair is a mix of soft curves and lightness on floating feet. manofparts.com

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INTERIORS • NOTES

TA K E FIVE Cutlery sets CIELSHOP Gold cutlery place set, £25 cielshopinteriors.com

WA R M U P HERTFORDSHIRE FIREPLACE GALLERY

A N E W LE A F BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

These elegant bowls from Georg Jensen are inspired by the magnolia’s elegant petals expressing infinite movement. £149 bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

HOUSE DOCTOR Ox titanium cutlery, from £8 quinceandcook.co.uk

With the increasing number of new homes being built without fireplaces, and advances in electric fire designs, the media wall has become increasingly popular with homeowners. Shown here is the Flamerite Glazer 1800 built in 3-sided electric fire with a false chimney breast in white. hertsfireplacegallery.co.uk

CULT FURNITURE Four piece cutlery set in copper, £39 cultfurniture.com

COX & COX Cutlery set in gold, £65 coxandcox.co.uk

IN THE LEAD WATT WATT

REBECCA UDALL Four piece bamboo handle cutlery set, £68 rebeccaudall.com

Sick of ugly extension leads? We all are. The solution come from Wattwatt, who have designed a range of colourful, pretty ones in endless combinations.

Chunky cloth braided cables and premium plugs will look good even tangled. From £36. watt-watt.com

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R O O M

F O R

MORE For two decades Jenny Junior Interiors has been transforming homes across Hertfordshire. Here the founder offers an insight into her work and what's to come

By JENNY JUNIOR

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INTERIORS • PROFILE HOME OFFICE FOR A CONTEMPORARY HOUSE IN BENGEO

KITCHEN AT BAYFORD GRANGE, A GEORGIAN MANOR HOUSE

I

GARDEN ROOM FOR A LARGE, TRADITIONAL STYLE HOUSE IN ESSENDON

was always a creative child, art was my favourite subject at school. I also loved fashion. My first commercial role was in a buying department in the West End, where I began to understand how form and colour can combine to produce a great design, something which has influenced my interior design career to date.

When I got married, we moved from London to Hertfordshire, which was 20 years ago. I had been considering interior design as a career for some time and the relocation afforded me the opportunity to enrol with the Regent Academy of Fine Art and gain a Distinction in interior design.

Following the successful completion of my design qualifications, I knew that interior design was the way forward for me. I wanted to make it more accessible

to more people. I understood that many people found it intimidating to visit upmarket showrooms and design studios, so I offered a one-to-one consultation service to clients in their own homes.

This service is still our starting point today, where clients can discuss their style requirements and budgets in a relaxed, non-judgemental environment.

I believe that the ability to listen is key. Some designers seem to imprint their own style on other people’s homes, without taking into consideration what their client actually wants. I am also a proponent of creative thinking and positivity – there’s always a solution. It may take time but, with persistence, a positive outcome is always possible.

I have a real passion for interior design and think I am extremely lucky to enjoy my job so much. For many clients it is a

“I am a proponent of creative thinking – there is always a solution” learning experience that they enjoy too, so we get a high proportion of repeat business.

People today are much more open to the concept of using an interior designer. Work and family commitments can take up vast amounts of time. People do not want to spend what little leisure time they have wandering around department stores or Googling furniture websites. They value the knowledge and experience a professional designer can offer and appreciate the A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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Top Three

Jenny Junior Interiors Hertfordshire Projects

B AY F O R D G R A N G E

SAMANTHA JOHNSON

Bayford

 This project was the complete refurbishment of a Georgian mansion and took over two years to complete. It included additions such as a pool house, a large orangery and a basement cinema room, with all the blinds and curtains working on motorised systems. The end result is a beautiful country home with all the mod cons for our clients to enjoy.

“Hitchin, Tewin and Datchworth seem particularly popular villages” time and hassle it will save them.

We offer an in-depth consultation with clients where we assess their requirements and budgets. We then design to the agreed brief and install the scheme using our team of professional tradesmen. We also offer a full project management service if required.

Once clients understand that we work with them in a genuinely consultative manner, at a pace with which they are comfortable and that we remain constantly in touch with the project from start to finish, then they tend to come back to us next time.

We get a lot of business from referrals and JENNY JUNIOR

enjoy five-star reviews for our services posted on social media. Whether it’s a case of moving to a new house and wanting a complete refurb, needing an extension, or just a difficult room that would benefit simply from furniture layout, lighting and window treatment advice, we can help.

During the pandemic, with more clients working from home, home offices have been high on the agenda. We design and make furniture to measure. Custom-made desks and storage solutions for a home office that are both functional and attractive to look at are items that we are very proud of.

Since the start of the pandemic, we’ve seen an influx of families moving out of London into the county. Hitchin, Tewin and Datchworth seem particularly popular villages, and we are currently working on a number of projects to make these homes something special.

Many existing clients have used the time during lockdown to re-evaluate their homes and replace tired schemes.

Additionally, since so many of our clients ask for fashion advice and style tips with their wardrobes during design consultations, we have launched an online fashion shop (wornwunce.com) selling beautiful, vintage, designer garments, handbags, shoes and jewellery from labels such as Christian Lacroix, Manolo, Dior, Barbour and more. Our ethos is to make designer pieces available to a wider audience at affordable prices. Sustainability in all areas of design is a key factor for us: the most sustainable garment is one that already exists.

PETTITS Datchworth

 This was the renovation of another period home, again completed over a number of years, which included a new kitchen, a garden room extension and the updating of three bedrooms and two reception rooms. We designed and installed bespoke furniture to encase and hide a boiler system, and we also created a desk modelled on our client’s love of his Bentley motor cars – a real one off!

WA R R E N PA R K R OA D Hertford

 Our brief here was to inject some character into a house that was decorated throughout in plain white and was bland and soulless. With our client having a demanding job and being absent most of the time, we project managed the installation of his home office, living room, games room, playroom and five bedrooms.

Our client has told us he is thrilled with the transformation and wouldn’t have known where to start if he had attempted to execute the project himself; very rewarding news.

PICTURED ON THIS PAGE, WORK IN A GEORGIAN HOME ON THE VILLAGE GREEN IN DATCHWORTH

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S L E E P

T I G H T

Your bedroom should be your sanctuary and a place where you can unwind. Here’s how you can make it a welcome respite

By MARK KEBBLE

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Sleep easy CA R PE DIEM BEDS

 Carpe Diem Beds’ Sandö is the perfect combination of sleep innovation and beautiful design. Its three spring systems – including the patented Contour Pocket System developed together with the Spinal Unit at Sahlgrenska University Hospital – form perfectly to your body, providing you with completely weightless sleep, while their Swedish handcraftsmanship and multitude of design options give a truly customisable, unique design to your bed. carpediembeds.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

Natural wellbeing TEER & CO

 These beautiful 2D and 3D Wall Panels bring warmth and nature into any bedroom and interior. Shown here is the Pyramid model from the 3D Edge Series. Pyramid presents an equilateral triangle profile with no symmetry and the surface is refracted at three different angles. The natural character and specific form of these stunning wall panels brings the outdoors in whilst improving the microclimate and the acoustic properties of interiors. teerandco.com

Top drawer L OA F

 You can never have too much storage, particularly when you have children and/or pets causing havoc in your bedroom. This Dinkum under bed storage in washed oak from Loaf is perfect to hide away toys and other messy paraphernalia without impacting on your bedroom's design and look. Created on wheels, it's simple to use, so no frantic pulling and pushing to complete the clean living look. loaf.com

Add va va voom

T H E F R E N C H B E D R O O M C O M PA N Y

 With smart tapered legs and beautiful ornate carving, the Provencal pretty white bedside table from The French Bedroom Company has two handy drawers for storing all of your bedside articles. Hand-carved from mahogany, this French bedside cabinet is finished in antique white, co-ordinating with all of their Provencal furniture and mirrors. frenchbedroomcompany.co.uk

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INTERIORS • TREND

Best of British

T H E PA I N T E D F U R N I T U R E C O

 Conceived, designed, engineered, manufactured, painted and finished entirely in the UK, the Oxford Painted Bedroom Furniture collection is a modern interpretation of classic British design, beautiful to behold and exceptionally well made. The collection is available in a wide choice of standard pieces with bespoke sizes available on request, and may be finished in a beautiful selection of contemporary colours. paintedfurnitureco.co.uk

Fall in love READING BEDDING

 The Kiss Me is a stunning new addition to the Hestia® Upholstered Bedframe collection, available at Reading Bedding.

The Hestia Upholstered Bedframe collection offers stunning handmade bedframes, as well as stools, ottomans, chaise longues, bedroom chairs and bedside tables to act as the perfect complement to your luxurious Furmanac bed frame. reading-bedding.co.uk

Hex appeal AT K I N & T H Y M E

 Keep it simple with a black stained mango wood unit featuring a contrasting brass finish for a hint of utility chic. A fantastic option for master bedrooms as well as guest rooms or teen spaces, Atkin & Thyme's Hex Bedside Drawers are a classically understated design that will complement any interior style. atkinandthyme.co.uk

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Top brand appliances professionally delivered and installed

Unit 2 Soothouse Spring, St Albans, AL3 6PF www.glotech.com | 01727 896 700

The best EcoDesign woodburning stoves and gas fireplaces on display

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INTERIORS • TREND

Soft centred TEXTURED LIVES

 Inspired by nature and following Textured Lives' ethos of creating designer bedding for comfort and easy living in the home, this beautiful fern embroidery has a relaxed aesthetic whilst being on trend for today’s interiors. It is produced in a neutral colour palette that can suit most soft pastel bedrooms for that calming ambience we all need at home. texturedlives.co.uk

Grey days SHARPS

 This Shaker Slate Grey wardrobe from Sharps covers all the bases you need in a bedroom, all wrapped up in a wonderful to look at design. Featuring a clothes rail, drawers for fold up clothing, and plenty of shelves to use for whatever your heart desires, all bedrooms need something this eye-catching and compact. sharps.co.uk

Coast to coast DUNELM

 Dunelm's AW21 Coastal Global Bedroom will get you dreaming of the sea. The bedroom collection includes a Seagrass mirror, Giselle five drawer chest, a Wolston three light cluster fitting, Coastal ceramic vase lines, Jax Global duvet, Wicker headboard, Joseph dining bench oak effect, Jonah denim mix rug, Ecomix ball shaped table lamp, and Jax embroidered cushion. dunelm.com

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INTERIORS • TREND ERCOL Forli chaise, £3,185 ercol.com

HEAVENLY HOMES & GARDENS Orange cotton runner, £62 heavenlyhomesandgardens.co.uk

COSY COCO Khatim rug, £396 cosycoco.com

MADE BY HAND One-off Penguin Books jug, £45 madebyhandonline.com

MADE TO LAST Hipster pendant light, £190 made-to-last.co.uk

THE HAPPY BLOSSOMS Origami vase, £33 thehappyblossoms.com

EDITOR’S PICK

AUDENZA Lola curvaceous velvet armchair, £657 audenza.com

HK LIVING Ceramic 70s noodle bowl, £11 folkinteriors.co.uk

HUBSCH Orange and black glass bowl, £19 fiveanddime-interiors.com

EDITOR’S PICK

BURNT ORANGE

LIGNE ROSET Pukka lounge chair, £1,605 chaplins.co.uk

The shade of the moment

By P E N D L E H A R T E

THE RUG RETAILER Oh So Sisco Burnt Orange by Matthew Williamson, £645 therugretailer.co.uk

LIVING IT UP Arthur bed, £989 livingitup.co.uk

ROOM FOR ROOTS Bohemian hanging planter, £11 roomforroots.co.uk

BOMBAY DUCK Picado Embroidered Cushion £58 orangefrogboutique.com

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LEADING FIREPLACE SHOWROOM

• Natural stone • Marble & wood surrounds • Full installation service by HETAS & Gas Safe engineers

• Gas fires & electric fires from £175 • Stoves & fire baskets • Surrounds from £349 • Free surveys • Supply only

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FA S H I O N

ASK ALEXA

MULBERRY X ALEXA CHUNG

Mulberry has launched an exciting new design collaboration with a long-time friend of the house and the woman who inspired one of its most iconic bags: Alexa Chung. Mulberry x Alexa Chung is the latest chapter in Mulberry Editions, in which collaborators make their mark on the house’s design DNA. mulberry.com

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NICE AND KNIT How the new season is all about dreamy doubles and classic knits

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

OLIVER BONAS Pink ombre knit tank, £45 oliverbonas.com

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FASHION • TREND GANNI Stretch stripe trousers in phantom, £195 ganni.com

GANNI Stretch stripe jacket in phantom, £325 ganni.com

SHRIMPS Milton vest in hazelnut, £250 shrimps.com

S

PRIMARK

eptember is by far one of the best months for fashion. It’s a time of transition, and 2021 is looking into the fashion archives and bringing back all the nostalgic classics we’ve been craving. Plenty of designers have made a case to create a more emphasised look when it comes to pairing pieces together: this month prepare to be invested in some classic co-ord pieces, with Ganni’s take on tailored two pieces, and Baum Und Pferdgarten’s denim on denim aesthetic.

The vintage knit has also made a return this season, but not in the traditional classic ‘grandpa’ sense. Designers such as Stine Goya, Simone Rocha and Molly Goddard give us knitwear with a nostalgic twist, playing on colour, tone and size.

Fashion will always look back to the past to give us the present, but this September, we are encouraged to embrace the combination of the old and the new.

Blue wave crop-top, £12 primark.com

BAUM UND PFERGARTEN

EDITOR’S PICK

Clariette sweater, £159 baumundpferdgarten.com

BAUM UND PFERGARTEN Camia trousers, £179 baumundpferdgarten.com

RIXO Rebecca floral sleeveless crochet dress, £325 rixo.co.uk

SIMONE ROCHA Sculpted vest with back button detail, £495 simonerocha.com

MONSOON Anastasia floral midi dress blue, £99 monsoon.co.uk

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Q&A

Peeling back the

LAYERS Lemons, lockdown and longevity: welcome to the world of Mrs Peel

By MARK KEBBLE

Q You had a successful career in book publishing – but during that time, were you thinking about doing your own thing in fashion?

A Absolutely not! I could never have imagined I’d be working in fashion. But, I’ve always loved clothes and have always had a clear sense of my own style.

Q What inspired you to get Lemonpeel London off the ground?

A I started thinking about Lemonpeel last summer during lockdown. My three boys were largely self-sufficient and I wanted to try and achieve something positive out of the difficulties of the pandemic. I wanted to have something to show from all those hours that we all had to spend at home. Once the idea of t-shirts came into my mind, I simply couldn’t shake it. I was obsessed, making lists and drawings literally all the time.

It’s also important to me that my three boys see me not just as their mum, but as someone who can take an idea and create a business from it. I hope it gives them a different perspective on potential careers and the confidence to try things for themselves later in life; plus, it’s vital they understand what women are capable of!

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FASHION • INTERVIEW

MRS PEEL HERSELF, THE FOUNDER OF LEMONPEEL LONDON

Q Lemonpeel London is sustainable through and through. Why is that important to you?

A I cannot stand waste, especially wasted clothing. The idea of clothes made in sweatshops from cheap materials that will not break down, but simply sit in landfill, is abhorrent to me. As is deadstock. It’s just wrong.

Lemonpeel is a slow fashion brand – I print only in very small quantities using sustainably sourced materials and vegan ink. It’s one of the core values of the brand.

To me, it seems like a win win. It’s better for the planet and, if you have a Lemonpeel t-shirt, you know that you’re wearing a top-quality product, at an affordable price – plus, because my print runs are intentionally so small, there’s a degree of exclusivity too.

Q I love how fun the t-shirt designs are.

Where do your ideas come from?

A If you ever spent more than a few hours with me, you’d know that I’m constantly looking around for inspiration and taking pictures of colour combinations or things that I might be able to use in a design. I have lists of words and phrases on my phone that I constantly add to. One of my favourite designs, Evil Eyes, was inspired by a holiday in Greece, and one of the upcoming autumn designs is inspired by graffiti. One of the joys of coming up with ideas for my own designs is that I don’t have to stick to any rules. I don’t have to create ‘a collection’, I can do what I want and hopefully people will like it.

Q What’s the latest launch?

A Make Lemonade is the latest tee. It

directly to customers via Instagram and Facebook. I’ve tried to create a magazinetype feel on my social media and I/Mrs Peel do regular try-ons and styling suggestions.

Hopefully, it gives people a reason to come back to Lemonpeel instead of just showing boring old pictures of t-shirts all the time.

It all fits into my idea of creating a tribe of Lemonpeel fans who return to the brand looking for new, quirky designs.

MAKE LEMONADE IS THE LATEST LAUNCH

Q Why the name?

A I was looking for something clean, fresh

and vibrant. I love the name Lemonpeel London – it rolls off the tongue, plus it’s easy to remember. The name led to a great logo and, most importantly, it meant I could become Mrs Peel and fans of the brand could be Lemonpeelers. Mrs Peel is central to the brand and allows me to speak

Q And why did you want to focus on t-shirts?

A I chose t-shirts because they can be a staple of every woman’s wardrobe. T-shirts have an aura of cool about them, a touch of rock and roll and I think they’re super versatile. I try and create designs that can go from day to night and from casual to smart depending how you choose to style them. If you want to style your tee with jeans and trainers fine, but equally, I think some of the designs look amazing with a woman’s tux for example or a skirt and sequin jacket. I wanted to create a library of tees so that you can pull out a design that suits your mood that day.

was inspired by creating Lemonpeel itself – turning the negatives of lockdown into a massive positive for me personally.

Lemonpeel has given me incredible focus and shown me just how driven I can be. I’m a 56-year-old mum of three, but I still managed to pull off setting up a business during lockdown and that makes me very proud. Lemonpeel is my lemonade. I hope the message behind the tee resonates with others who’ve turned around the negatives in their own lives.

Q Finally, how long have you lived in Bishop’s Stortford and what do you love about the area?

A I moved to the area from London in 2005 and I’ve never looked back. I love being able to tramp around fields and Hatfield Forest, yet still be so close to London and Cambridge. I was brought up in the countryside and really missed horizons in London. Another big bonus is how friendly and welcoming everyone is – I’m well and truly settled with an army of friends. I’m a proper Hertfordshire fan!

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FASHION • JEWELLERY

Heavy Hardware

It's the season of chains, larger than life bangles and chunky rings

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

EDGE OF EMBER

TOHUM DESIGN

Marco Bicego 18ct yellow gold double lunaria drop earrings, £1,250, bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Veneto chunky chain bracelet, £175 edgeofember.com

Dunya Sumba ring, £188, tohumdesign.com

CHLOBO

SANDRA ALEXANDRA

PHINE

Sacred Earth oval bead fire bracelet - gold, £162 the-dressingroom.com

Chilli earrings, £150, sandraalexandra.com

Spike ear cuff, £99, phone.london

BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

TADA & TOY

ALIGHIERI

Marco Bicego 18ct yellow gold & diamond lunaria necklet - 0.67ct, £4,500 bakerbrothersdiamonds.com

Celestial hoops, £125, tadaandtoy.com

The Flashback ring, £195, alighieri.co.uk

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Autumn

TRAN SI T I ON Hertfordshire’s Emma Willis has teamed up with Next to create a highly wearable capsule wardrobe collection as we move on from the summer season

N E X T. C O . U K

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HEALTH & BEAUTY

LIP SERVICE BITE BEAUTY Sought after beauty brand Bite has launched in the UK to give skin minimalism a whole new aesthetic. It's a clean, highperforming beauty range fuelled by superfood ingredients to provide all the things our skin craves. bitebeauty.com

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PHILIP MARTIN - EXCLUSIVE TO C I E N T E H A I R H E A LT H S PA BERKHAMSTED

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • NOTES

BEAUTY NOTES

The latest in luxury makeup and skincare

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

FOCUS

EDITOR’S PICK

PERFECT

Blend

Tria Woman on offering much-needed support

p l s LO N D O N ™

B y M A R I A N N E GAU T I E R

September is the perfect time for a hair transformation, and it has never been easier with the help of plsLONDON™. The brand stocks Russian Remy cuticle hair – the finest hair extensions on the market, for a seamless and smooth finish that effortlessly blends in with your own hair.

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plshair.co.uk

Skin Renewal R O C S K I N CA R E

Every skin minimalist should have their go-to selection of products that always delivers, and no skincare routine is complete without RoC. With their re-entry to the UK market, they offer a wide range of treatments via their innovative products. We highly recommend the RoC routine. rocskincare.com

EYE C O N TAC T CHANEL

The art of self-expression is encouraged with Chanel’s 2021 edition of The Eye Collection, by way of ultra-resistant, longwearing products. Highlighting our eyes is a way of enhancing our natural beauty, keeping things simple with the skin and asserting your personality on the eye.

SHARE THE LOAD eptember again… another school year is upon us and for those of us with children, getting back into a routine can seem like such a relief after a long summer of finding ways to keep the kids entertained!

However, for some, the reality of the back to school routine can feel like a merry-go-round of school drop offs, after school clubs, birthday parties, play dates (and that list goes on), which all have to be navigated alongside the usual routines of housework, shopping, cooking and work. All this pressure can lead to feelings of being overwhelmed and not being good enough, especially when, at the end of the day, we are winding down with a glass or two of wine in front of the TV, only to start the next day with industrial strength coffee in order to get going once again.

A lot of this behaviour can contribute to feelings of anxiety, which is one of the most common problems that women will come to see me about.

Women will often state that they have too much on their plate and this is causing them to spread themselves too thinly – leading to feeling guilty that they “should” do better, or more or both.

But there are many ways that we can alleviate our anxiety and make our busy lives more manageable and less overwhelming - come and speak to us and we will support you with whatever life has thrown your way.

TRIA WOMAN

The Stables, Penn Street, Amersham, Bucks, HP7 0PP, 07792 972943 marianne@triawoman.com triawoman.com

chanel.com

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MAAREE FOUNDER MARI THOMAS

A n e w S U P P O R T A C T Hertfordshire local Mari Thomas discusses her plans to revolutionise the sports bra industry, and how she’s empowering women along the way

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • PROFILE

THE NEW SOLIDARITY BRA

THE MAAREE RANGE INCLUDES T-SHIRTS

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portswear enthusiast, women’s breast health advocate and now entrepreneur, Mari Thomas is on a mission to create the perfect sports bra, and raise breast health awareness while she’s at it. “I went to Loughborough University, and it’s one of the two places in the whole of the UK where you can do sports bra testing,” she explains. “Once I graduated, I got the job as a lab technician in their sportswear technology department – they were looking for female participants to test sports bras. It so happens I was a massive fan of jogging and on the hunt for the perfect sports bra after years of struggle.

“I got to test products from massive household names, and despite this being

my job, I still couldn’t find the perfect fit.

Every sports bra tested only focused on one area of improvement – downward motion.

I just couldn’t understand why. What comes up must come down,” she laughs.

After her contract ended with Loughborough, Thomas moved to London, continuing to work in wearables testing. “The idea of the perfect sports bra never left my mind. I decided one day to jot some ideas down. I bought a few belts from a charity shop, cut them so they curved to the shape of my body and sewed them onto existing bras to see how well something over the top would reduce downward motion. The first few steps out of the door I had a wave of amazement – this was actually doing something.”

After being made redundant in 2018, Thomas decided to go full speed ahead at creating ‘the perfect sports bra’ – and Maaree was founded in December 2018.

The purpose for creating a technologically advanced sports bra was always very evident to Thomas. “Throughout school, all of my friends dropped out of their sports because they couldn’t find the right sportswear that gave them the support they needed,” she says. “Bras traditionally have been designed and created by men.

To create a bra that supports you must have a woman’s perspective. So, I knew my niche – I was my own customer, I knew what women like me needed.

“I knew my niche, I knew what women like me needed”

“The over band is our unique selling point,” Thomas states. “It’s there to reduce upward motion of the breast. Bras are traditionally tighter, with an under band, stopping the breasts from moving downwards. We take an approach that looks at the sports bra from a 360-degree angle. This is super important. We have ligaments in our chest, and no muscle in our breasts. If they’re not supported enough during exercise, the weight will pull, causing your ligaments to stretch, overtime causing sagging, pain and irreversible damage. It’s all about protecting the health of your chest.”

Thomas is encouraging women to break the stigma attached to the discussion of all things breast related. “I want women to feel like my brand is a super safe space to ask any and every question,” she says.

Additionally, collaborating with charities is equally important to her. “I partnered with the breast cancer charity ‘Coppafeel’, and I am about to launch my second bra, where with every bra sold, a portion of the profits is donated to them.”

The Maaree mantra is ‘supporting women’, so whatever that entails, is exactly where Thomas wants to take the brand.

“The next step is to simply continue to revolutionise women’s sportswear further,” Thomas says on her ambitions, “whether that’s underwear that support women after having children, or bras that support after surgeries. As long as it supports women, I don’t see why we wouldn’t do it.” maaree.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 • FOCUS

FOOD FOR

THOUGHT The founder of Ciente Hair & Health Spa explores the science behind hair health and nutrition

By TRISHA BULLER

POACHED EGGS FOR BREAKFAST CAN HELP YOUR OVERALL WELLBEING

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t is becoming usual to see more patients present themselves to me at my clinic with what they believe is hair shedding – they feel their ponytails are getting thinner, they’re noticing more hair in the brush, plug and on the pillow. The effects of COVID-19 has impacted in more ways than one concerning our hair health. This has triggered anxiety in itself, and can exacerbate excessive hair shedding and hair loss.

Our hair needs protein to grow healthy and strong, we have a great choice of fantastic cosmetically pleasing hair shampoos and conditioners, however we need to address our issues from within. The hair structure is a complex chain of amino acids made from protein; hence protein is essential in our everyday nutritional intake.

The blood feeds our hair carrying oxygen, nutrients, vitamins and minerals to our essential organs, which keep us alive, and the hair only benefits from what is left after its strenuous journey.

So if you miss out on breakfast, the most essential meal of the day, or you think fruit is sufficient, then you’re quite mistaken.

Breakfast should include protein such as eggs, boiled, scrambled or poached, with wholemeal toast. Red meat (or an equivalent substitute) is essential in our diet as this contains the most essential vitamin for healthy hair growth, which is B12, also found in liver and kidneys. If you cannot stomach red meat, then choose other

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options that are high in protein – seeking advice from a nutritional therapist is a great way to understand the importance of a healthy nutritional intake, which assists in maintaining healthy hair health too.

Our bodies can only draw on a reserve if there is one; like a car needs water, oil and fuel, our bodies need vitamins, minerals and nutrients. Supplements can assist in the healthy hair growth cycle, especially if our diets are compromised with ‘yo yo’ diets, ill health and missing out on meals.

I have been using and recommending to my patients Viviscal professional for several years now, and have seen some fantastic results; however, remember if there are hormonal or medical underlying issues then it’s a different treatment plan and medical advice must be sought.

Telogen effluvium is the term associated with a premature shedding of hair in

its resting stage, this hair shedding will rectify itself eventually, once the offending factor has been established and rectified, generally taking a minimum of three to six months to see an improvement.

You can use cosmetically pleasing products to help with the visual look, and assist in maintaining the hair in its best condition externally, such as hair treatments that work on the inner structure of the hair shaft, and conditioners which protect the outer layer of the hair structure. However, until our inner health is homeostasis, our hair will reflect this.

CIENTE For more information on the science appertaining to hair and scalp disorders contact Trisha Buller MIT SRSH, nutritional therapist at trisha.buller@icloud.com and visit ciente.co.uk

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HEALTH & BEAUTY • FITNESS

TOP

PICKS YOUR NEXT WORKOUT FIX

FITNESS NOTES

By ELLIE-MAE HAMMOND

P I L AT E S Hollie Grant, award-winning Pilates instructor and founder of Pilates PT, has shared some of the theory behind the key aspects of Pilates that is extremely useful for beginners to understand. Absolutely recommends checking out all the do’s and don'ts on her website. pilatespt.co.uk

R E S I S TA N C E T R A I N I N G Tash Lankester, PT & Peach for the Beach trainer at FLEX Chelsea in London, explains that there are huge benefits to resistance training: “It builds strength, muscle and increases bone density. Strength leads to improvements in posture, reduces the risk of injuries and aids in pain management in older age." flexchelsea.com

CYCLE WIT H SO UL Five reasons why you should try a spin class LOW IMPACT, HIGH INTENSITY

BARRE Inspired by the elements of ballet, yoga and Pilates, barre focuses on low-impact, high-intensity movements designed to strengthen the body in ways that workouts neglect. Herts is blessed with choice of venues to enjoy this, but we recommend Herts Pilates. hertspilates.co.uk

Spinning is the ideal physical remedy if you are recovering from an injury/surgery, or just like to take things a little more gently. A dance class on a bike is the best description to attach to spinning, working both your upper body, arms and core, while forgetting you’re doing all the hard work that the latter brings.

STRESS RELIEF If you affected by stress, it can in some cases by relayed into our muscles. Exercise has been

scientifically proven to reduce stress, focusing both your mind and body, helping you to focus on just one thing – or in some cases, nothing – and to just let go of everything.

With some fun dance moves on the bike and some rhythmic tunes, spinning really does beat the stress out of the room.

PUSH YOURSELF With spinning, you set your own pace and are encouraged to push your limits at your own pace. There is no hierarchy of expertise in spin, it’s a ‘who wants to work out and

have fun’ expectation. No intimidation and no levels.

MUSCLE DEFINITION There are many advantages to spin, but one of the main ones is the increase in muscle definition in your legs and core. Every part of your body is on the move throughout a spin class; legs, arms, core all engaging with one another.

If you’re wanting to tone up your legs/core, but really do not want to go near the weight section, spin and a healthy diet is your alternative.

HAVE FUN The aim in spin is to simply put the fun back into exercising.

You know it’s great when you finish the ride wondering where the time went. You will feel that serotonin rush flooding through you while you cycle – and have a singalong to boot, too.

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F A M I L Y

ON THE RUN D O G F E ST

Events are back in full flow throughout Hertfordshire, and one that truly puts the smile on our faces here is DogFest at Knebworth House, running from 11-12 September. Expect everything and anything, with a few surprises thrown in, as our beloved furry friends get to have a whale of a time. Turn to page 89 to read more about family walks, hay bale racing and the involvement of the Dogs Trust.

Merrythought 82 • Angel & Rocket 84 • DogFest 89 A B S O L U T E LY m a g a z i n e s

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BEAR

NECESSITIES With Hertfordshire-based Watermill Bears one local stockist, we look at the story of Merrythought and how they are celebrating a very special anniversary

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FAMILY • FEATURE

“NOW 100 YEARS LATER, IT'S WONDERFUL TO SEE HOW EDWARD IS STILL ENJOYED BY ADULTS AND CHILDREN”

THE MERRYTHOUGHT FACTORY IN THE 1930S

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he story of Merrythought began in 1930. William Gordon Holmes, owner of a spinning mill in Yorkshire called ‘Holmes & Laxton’, recognised the opportunity to make premium soft toys from the luxurious natural fibres they sourced. He found a beautiful brick foundry building in Ironbridge, home of the industrial revolution, and with the help of a team of skilled local seamstresses, Merrythought was born.

The first collection was designed by Florence Atwood, a remarkable pattern maker who overcame many challenges associated with being deaf and unable to speak, to create some of their most iconic designs. This included the original Merrythought and Magnet teddy bears, which still have a strong influence upon the designs they create today.

Their heritage is something they are

immensely proud of, and the original factory in Ironbridge remains Merrythought’s home to this day; a magical place where each teddy bear is brought to life using the finest materials and traditional craftsmanship that has been handed down four generations.

The current team is lead by Sarah Holmes, great granddaughter of founder Gordon Holmes. As the years have gone on, Merrythought have become known for their commemorative bears that have proved to be hugely popular. For example, Merrythought created special commemorative teddy bears to mark the birth of Prince George of Cambridge, with a bear also created to celebrate the arrival of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex’s first child, Archie, a later addition to the series. Merrythought was also commissioned to produce exclusive Royal Baby teddy bears for the official Buckingham Palace Shop, with number one of each limited edition being gifted to the respective young Prince or Princess.

Now, the UK’s oldest remaining teddy bear manufacturer will celebrate the 100th birthday of Edward, Christopher Robin’s much-loved childhood bear who became the inspiration for Winnie the Pooh.

Purchased from Harrods, Edward Bear was given to Christopher Robin by his mother Daphne as a first birthday present on 21 August 1921. Daphne’s husband and Christopher’s father, AA Milne, was so enamoured by the partnership he witnessed between a boy and his bear, that he began to write stories about their journey through life together – and the stories of Winnie the Pooh were born.

Now a century later, an adorable quartet of Edward bears created by Merrythought is charming a new generation of children and adults across the world. To celebrate this special bear’s 100th birthday this year, Merrythought is also giving away a free commemorative gold-plated keyring with the purchase of every original 18in Edward bear, until the end of 2021.

Originally created by Farnell in 1921, Edward Bear was brought to life again for

SARAH HOLMES

the 2017 Goodbye Christopher Robin film after Merrythought, which owns the Farnell brand, was asked to recreate the bear that featured throughout the award-winning film.

Fourth-generation managing director Sarah Holmes says: “These very special bears have been handmade in our factory in Ironbridge using the same traditional skills and natural materials as Christopher Robin’s original Edward Bear, all those years ago.

“We are thrilled to celebrate the 100th birthday of the bear which inspired AA Milne’s Winnie the Pooh. At its heart is the beautiful story of how a teddy bear captured a little boy’s imagination and how much joy and companionship children can find from teddy bears and soft toys. Now 100 years later, it's wonderful to see how Edward is still enjoyed by so many adults and children alike, and we’re proud that he continues to be hand-made in Britain.” It’s storybook stuff – just like Merrythought itself. merrythought.co.uk

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Let the F U N B EG I N The new season means a refresh for your child’s look – and Angel & Rocket in St Albans will have plenty to excite A N G E L A N D R O C K E T. C O M

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FAMILY • PETS

“See if your dog has the confidence and skill to soar into the sky”

Let the

GAMES BEGIN

DogFest returns to Knebworth House this month, with plenty for you and our furry friends to enjoy THE BIG DOG WALK The Big Dog Walk, sponsored by Bought

By Many, gives you the chance to join thousands of others on a 2km or 4km walk and explore the beautiful grounds of Knebworth House with your pet. Why not get your paws on their limited edition 'Only my dog understands me' Big Dog Walk t-shirt for just £12? Even better, if you fancy heading to one of their Big Dog Walk events you can have another day of fun with your dog at a mini festival for just £10.50 each.

HAVE A GO If you want to put an enormous smile on your face, head to the have-a-go activities at DogFest Hertfordshire.

It’s great fun watching your dog learn something new and most dogs love the challenge too. Taking part in a sport

keeps your dog in tip-top shape, so once your pup has had a go, speak with the experts to see what you can get up to at home. You can get them to try out:

HAY BALE RACING Dogs are timed as they jump over a series of hay bales, cheered on by you as they race to the finish line. Prizes will be awarded for the fastest times of the day, plus some extra treats for the funniest runs too.

DOG DIVING A great game for dogs that love jumping into water, dog diving is one of the most popular activities at the show.

It’s hilarious watching the daring dogs splash into the pool, encouraged by the cheers of the audience. Places are first-come, first-served so be quick.

ULTIMATE FRISBEE After watching a spectacular display in the Main Arena at DogFest Hertfordshire, you will be invited in to have a go.

Meet the experts and see if your dog has the confidence and skill to soar into the sky to catch the Frisbee.

AGILITY The agility course is equipped with jumps, tunnels, pole weaves and A-frames for your dog to run through, jump over or run up and down.

THE REHOMING GARDEN Dogs Trust are partnering with DogFest to show the joys of having a rescue dog. Next to the Dogs Trust Village the event will have a dedicated rehoming garden, to showcase their lovely canine residents and also catch up with their dogs in their ‘furever’ homes.

If you have a former Dogs Trust dog, they invite you to come along and join their reunion parade as they do love to see how happy and well their dogs are now. They will ask you to walk around the ring and one of the team will come and chat to you about your dog and their stories and how they are getting on.

They will also have some of their lovely foster dogs making an appearance and be speaking to the carers looking after them to find out the joys and challenges of being one of their Home from Home volunteers.

DogFest will take place at Knebworth House over the weekend of 11-12 September. Find out more at dog-fest.co.uk/hertfordshire

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School fees insurance will help cover future costs should you or your spouse die or suffer a terminal illness

School fees insurance from less than £21 per month

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SPECI A L Inside this section O P E N D AY T O P T I P S p 9 2 D O F E AWA R D p 9 6 GROW2KNOW p98 COM M U N IT Y ACTION p1 05 ST EDMUNDS p107 EXAMS EXAMINED p109

START TO FINISH ST CO LU M BA’ S CO L L EG E

Previously an all-boys’ school, St Columba’s in St Albans announced its historic move to co-education in 2020, welcoming girls into the Lower Prep and Lower Sixth in 2021. From September 2022 it will also welcome girls in Year 7 (11+), then into Year 9 (13+) in September 2024. stcolumbascollege.org

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Judgement DAYS

With real life open days back on, here’s some valuable advice about the dos and don’ts when parents are invited in past the school gates B y S U E L A I D L AW

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EDUCATION • OPEN DAYS

“One well-known personality, dressed in a scarlet suit and full of rather loud questions, made us realise it wasn't the school for us”

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ou’ve done your homework: looked at websites, made a rather long shortlist and, where required, booked your places for the round of Autumn Term Open Day events. So how can you maximise the opportunities afforded by visiting school open days?

Although a few schools will grant an individual visit, most of them, particularly during the Autumn Term, will be large en masse events.

Be prepared for the fact that you may well be shown around in a relatively large group where there may be limited time to talk to the present pupils. Some schools will adopt a more flexible approach to the visit, where you are given a map and are free to wander at will amongst the well organised classrooms.

When you arrive you will be greeted by a member of staff and some pupils. If you are to have a guide for your visit, this will be a (well chosen) pupil who will, hopefully, be a good ambassador

for the school. Having said that, try not to be too influenced by that one specific pupil; try to speak to a few. Many a parent has left a school feeling enormously impressed or, alternatively, taken aback and rather demoralised by the child who has shown them round.

It goes without saying that every school will showcase the best of what they do – carefully chosen exercise books, wonderful choirs and gym displays, and cookery demonstrations all impress parents and show what can be achieved. Try to look beyond the obvious. If possible, poke your nose through the window of a classroom that is not on display, and look at the displays on the walls of the unadorned classrooms.

Another interesting and worthwhile observation is to look and listen to other fellow parent visitors.

Are they the sort of people that could become your friends? With three children and a long teaching career behind me, I have been involved in scores of open days. On one very telling moment, when visiting a prospective school for one of our daughters, I was instantly struck

by the group of parents in which we were amassed. One well-known personality, dressed in a scarlet suit and full of rather loud and confident questions, was amongst the group – wonderful school as it is, it wasn’t the school for our family and this particular situation seemed to be the embodiment of all our thoughts!

Invariably, if you are comfortable in the school environment, your children and family are likely to feel the same way. Trust your instinct and the small voice inside your head.

Open Days provide a wonderful opportunity to explore facilities, meet staff and pupils and get a sense of a school. What is most important is to be wise about finding the most appropriate environment for your child – one in which to thrive, grow and enjoy.

Sue Laidlaw is founder of Laidlaw Education LLP, who offer educational advice, lessons and courses for children of all ages through their centres and the Laidlaw Virtual Academy.

Find out more at laidlaweducation. co.uk or call 020 8487 9517

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Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate An Excellent rated (ISI) school welcoming children aged 3 months to 19 years.

Find out how we can help support your child to achieve their aspirations in our unique prep, middle and senior four-school model.

Call to arrange a private tour or join us at our next open day on 2 October 2021. www.qe.org

Shortlisted for Independent School of the Year for Performing Arts and Independent Prep School of the Year.

“To be the best that I can, with the gifts that I have.” www.qe.org | admissions@qe.org | 01423 333330 | York YO26 9SS

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Enterprising HURST COLLEGE A look at Hurst College’s recent successes

By EVE HERBERT

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urst College’s Young Enterprise team, Plants with Purpose (PwP), won the Sustainability Award at the regional Young Enterprise final. As event winners of the overall county title and the Digital Skills Award, PwP went forward to the regional competition against six schools from Kent, Surrey and Hampshire, three of whom won awards. As well as winning the Sustainability Award, PwP only just missed out on going through to the national finals. The Hurst team also made the final of the JA (Junior Achievement) competition, the European version of YE, as one of only five UK teams selected to take part.

Earlier in the year, PwP took part in a Dragons’ Den event and won the Business Plan Award and the Dragons’ Den Award. The

dragons praised PwP for having the best produced video, a standout logo, impressive website, good market research, cohesive brand identity/packaging/channel marketing as well as a professional business plan and presentation.

PwP’s product was a range of herb planting kits packaged in a reusable fabric bag, with a choice of Thyme, Lavender, Mint, Chamomile and Rosemary.

“This is a phenomenal achievement.

Covid made the whole process of building and running a viable business more difficult than usual. PwP have achieved financial success and been recognised by Young Enterprise, JA Europe and Dragons’ Den for the quality of their product and the exemplary way they have managed their company,” says Jan Leeper, head of careers, Hurst College.

In other news, Hurst College’s director of diversity and inclusion, Jami Edwards-Clarke, won the

“Hurst's team went forward to the regional competition against six other schools”

EDUCATION • FOCUS

Outstanding INDEX (Inclusion and Diversity Excellence) Leadership Award at the Boarding Schools’ Association Awards 2021.

Jami was appointed last year, alongside her responsibilities as a boarding housemistress and PE teacher. Under Jami’s leadership, the support from staff and pupils to drive the movement forward has been overwhelming. She created pupil and staff D&I platforms to share and develop initiatives under the mantra #Be#Yourself@Hurst; and led the team in organising support for the numerous D&I events including Black History Month, Disability Awareness Week and Pride History Month involving pupils, staff and their families.

The judges said: “Jami has shown exemplary leadership and management. These results are visible in the impact of her strategies and the clear emphasis placed on stakeholder voices.”

In response Jami said: “Pupils and staff have been the engine throughout. Despite a global pandemic what has been achieved is more than impressive. This award isn’t about me, it’s about the College, with everyone embracing the challenge. The journey isn’t over, but we can be really proud of what we have achieved.”

H U R ST C O L L E G E College Lane, Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex, BR6 hppc.co.uk

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Lasting

LEGACY Among the many touching tributes to HRH The Duke of Edinburgh was the outpouring of warmth about the DofE Award scheme, which began life in 1956 and continues to change lives

By LIBBY NORMAN

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EDUCATION • ROOTS LEFT DofE Award students, including at Gordon’s School, Surrey. Also shown, the Queen and Duke of Edinburgh visiting Gordon’s

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he Duke of Edinburgh's Award (or the DofE as it is almost universally known) is a life-changing journey for many young people.

The outpouring of warmth from its fans – many of whom had been on the DofE Award journey themselves – made it clear what a huge legacy Prince Philip leaves behind in this regard. The statistics bear this out, with over 6.7 million participants and 3.1 million awards achieved in the UK since its inception.

DofE has global reach now, with programmes run in more than 130 countries and territories worldwide. Internationally, there were around 1,800 young people embarking on their DofE journey every day in 2017, and with something like 1.3 million worldwide participants in that year. In some places, it is known by different names, but the general framework has stood the test of time and works for young people in all settings and circumstances.

It started small, although the ambition was big. The Duke of Edinburgh's Award began life in 1956, with the challenge to young people to: "attain standards of achievement and endeavour in a wide variety of active interests". A less formal description of the DofE's overarching aim, given somewhat later by HRH himself, puts it rather more succinctly and rather well: "It's what I like to describe as a do-it-yourself growing up kit".

The Duke of Edinburgh was influenced in the idea by Kurt Hahn, a German-Jewish emigre to the UK, pioneering educator and founder of Gordenstoun. (Hahn, incidentally, was also one of instigators of Outward Bound.) As a former pupil at Gordenstoun, and one who had thrived in an environment

where students were encouraged to test and challenge themselves, Prince Philip could see the benefits of encouraging physical activity, service and leadership training.

Lord John Hunt – the Army colonel who had led the first successful ascent of Everest in 1953 – was the first Director tasked with designing and bringing the programme to life.

The original design consisted of four sections: rescue & public service, expeditions, pursuits & projects and fitness. Initially, it was known as the 'DofE for boys', but within a year it was announced that girls would be invited to participate. Three years on, the scheme became a charitable trust and the International DofE Award was established in 1988.

Over the years, DofE has become a mainstay within independent schools across the land, with universal appreciation of both its testing nature and its ability to bring out the best in all young people and build their confidence for life. And here the focus is on 'all' because the elements that make up the scheme play to different strengths. The athletically minded may love the expeditions and physical challenges, but equal value is placed on volunteering and building skills. It is also incredibly adaptable to suit the individual.

Today DofE Awards schemes in state schools and academies outnumber those in the independent sector. Schemes are run by employers and endorsed by many more – including Google, Burberry and ITV – as a marker of a young person's transferable 'soft skills'. Schemes have been tailored to suit young people with disabilities – in 2014 ao.com employee Melissa Dempsey became the first person from a business running the scheme to complete the Expedition section using a wheelchair.

Over 725,000 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds did their DofE in 2019/20. Notably, the scheme has been made available to those in Young Offenders' Institutions, enabling young people who have lost their way to develop skills and self-confidence – and take back control over the direction of their life.

After the announcement of The Duke of Edinburgh's death, DofE participants and Award holders from across the UK helped launch a new fund in his memory. The Living Legacy Fund is designed to give a million more young people the opportunity to achieve a DofE Award. CEO of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Ruth Marvel explains it thus: “We are also focused on engaging those young people who face greater disadvantage as our impact research shows these young people have most to gain from a DofE experience.”

Find out more about The Duke of Edinburgh's Award's Living Legacy Fund at dofe.org

“IT'S WHAT I LIKE TO DESCRIBE AS A DO-IT-YOURSELF GROWING UP KIT” HRH THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH

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EDUCATION • COMMUNITY

GREEN Strength

Grow2Know emerged from a community gardening project after the Grenfell Tower fire. Its mission is to create a green legacy for the North Kensington community and for young people everywhere

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he impact of the Grenfell Tower fire will be felt for generations to come, but in all the grief and anger that surrounds the events of June 2017, there are stories of hope and community resilience. Grow2Know is one among them, and it grew from a simple need to do something positive in the aftermath of the fire.

Grow2Know co-founder Tayshan Hayden-Smith can still clearly describe what life felt like in the days and weeks after the fire. “I had been living beneath Grenfell Tower all my life – I have many memories around it growing up.

After the fire the community went into shock. We didn’t know what to do with ourselves,” he says.

Inevitably, with the national and international press descending in the immediate aftermath, there was

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confusion. “You have the community and then you have the whole world,” says Hayden-Smith. He says many in the community turned to art as a means of processing raw emotions, with projects offered locally – including at the Maxilla (Maxilla Hall Social Club). He tried it himself with his son and nephew, but it wasn’t the right fit.

Then something unexpected happened. “We saw this barren, neglected patch of land and we just decided that was something we were drawn towards.” Tending it and improving it began as the smallest of actions. Hayden-Smith says: “I wouldn’t even call it a decision.

It wasn’t as if we sat down and decided: ‘let’s do up this space’. We just went in there and thought ‘oh, this feels good’ – it was our art.”

From there, in an organic process, this small patch of common ground morphed into an informal community project. Local plant

shops and nurseries donated plants and the local community started to join in. It was, says Hayden-Smith, a lovely moment during an adverse time to realise what was happening.

“Residents and community members would either come past and share a smile or share a conversation and it just brought light to a lot of people’s day. Then you would get some people that would offer their time. They would jump in for five minutes and that would turn into ten, and then all of a sudden they were spending the day with you in this space.”

What was also life-affirming was the wide range of people who started to join in. “There were completely different backgrounds and demographics,” says HaydenSmith. He describes the garden as being without barriers, with the majority of helpers being quite young – late teens and twenties initially.

Then some community elders got involved, also younger children when

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ALL IMAGES The Grow2Know team have attracted support from across the community – with all age groups joining in

“You can link anything in life to horticulture so why is it not at the forefront of our education?”

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ALL IMAGES Grow2Know's Morley Heart Gardens is both a memorial garden and a place to socialise and relax

the project spread to an area behind the Maxilla. “Every week there would be a different group of people.”

There was no formal structure or overarching master plan to these activities – and Hayden-Smith says this made for a conflict-free zone, with a shared activity that pulled down potential barriers between strangers and age groups.

“One thing about gardens is that it’s hard to have conflict in that space – when you plant a plant, what can you argue about!”

If the project to beautify the spaces close to Grenfell Tower brought positivity to people’s lives in the aftermath of the fire, it also sparked something stronger – the desire to build on what they had already created. Grow2Know was established in 2020 as a means of building a more permanent legacy in order to honour those lost at Grenfell. “It’s important that people remember what Grow2Know grew from – the 72 people we lost that night in June 2017,” says Hayden-Smith. Launched as a non-profit, its board of directors comprises Hayden-Smith, with

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“One thing about gardens is that it's hard to have conflict in that space – what can you argue about”

horticultural might from garden designer and TV presenter Danny Clarke (AKA The Black Gardener) and agriculturist and chef Ali Yellop.

Advisors include the renowned and nine times Chelsea Gold winning garden designer Cleve West. The plan is to green up areas of the city, but the brief is far wider.

Grow2Know believe that they can use gardening as a platform to enable communities and their young people to thrive. The team also want to promote horticulture – showing its possibilities to the community and encouraging them to have a relationship with plant and produce growing and the land itself. HaydenSmith says that lockdown has profoundly changed our relationship to green spaces, but it taps into a host of existing issues – from food security and green infrastructure to a better environment to foster mental and physical health. “You can link anything in life to horticulture, so why is it not at the forefront of our education? Why is it not at the forefront of our conversation when we talk about our environment?”

Projects so far include a small garden at Morley College, a local further education provider. It was built with “the smallest budget” and incorporated a tree planted earlier in honour of Grenfell Tower victims.

The brief was to create a space that felt more like a memorial garden, but also a place to relax and socialise or contemplate in the sunshine.

Despite the small budget Morley Heart Gardens is now transformed into a welcoming retreat with a permanent reminder of its purpose via artist Carrie Reichardt’s stunning mosaic-dressed wall.

The next and much bigger plan is to create a garden for Chelsea Flower Show – sponsorship permitting. It will be called the Mangrove Garden, in honour of the Mangrove Nine – local heroes who mounted a landmark court challenge against the police in 1970 that highlighted racial injustice. Through the garden the team at Grow2Know hope to bring resources back to the local community and also educate young people about an important black history and civil rights milestone for London and the UK. More than that, they would like to open up the possibilities of gardening to young people from all backgrounds and all environments. “If children see people who look like them doing something amazing, then hopefully they will take some inspiration from that,” says Hayden-Smith. “We need to educate our young people so that they can come up with solutions to the problems we’re facing, and also come at things from a more creative standpoint. Greening up London is very much part of that – if we can do it here, where it’s so built up, we can do it anywhere.”

Visit grow2know.org.uk

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EDUCATION • CREATIVE

“Start your journey towards a career in the creative industries”

Musical YOUTH

The Academy of Contemporary Music offers courses for creatives of all types

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re you musical? Or maybe creative in another way? There’s a college that can teach you how to earn a living from doing something that you love. Start your journey towards a career in the creative industries at the place where all creativity matters.

The last 18 months have demonstrated the importance of the arts. While the pandemic restricted the lives of millions, we found solace in our favourite music, performances and video games. The live music industry is the fifth biggest economy in the UK and the gaming industry is projected to be worth some £7 billion by 2024, so all creativity matters.

ACM is a place where creativity is nurtured and celebrated. Building on a 26year history, ACM provides a place where

musicians, technicians, engineers and game developers can be taught by industry professionals. With courses in performance, artistry, songwriting, business, technical services, music production, game development and more, they have study options at both Diploma and Degree level, making it a great alternative to attending a traditional College or University.

With campuses in Guildford, London and Birmingham, ACM is also home to Europe’s largest recording facility, Metropolis Studios. With artists such as Queen, Amy Winehouse and Michael Jackson having made Metropolis their workplace over the years gone by, and a current client list that includes Stormzy, Drake, Clean Bandit, Elton John, Adele, Madonna, Kylie Minogue and Beyonce, ACM’s students can work in the very studio environments in which their favourite tracks have been recorded, and learn from the same Grammy award-winning team that have helped produce them.

It’s not just all about the music, though.

This September, they launched the ACM Games Academy, working with pioneers like Supermassive Games, Alienware, UKIE, TIGA and more. The ACM Games Academy is the perfect place to start your career as a game designer, programmer or project manager.

AC M acm.ac.uk/open-days

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EDUCATION • COMMUNITY TOM ALBONE OF BAKER BROTHERS DIAMONDS

Food for THOUGHT The inside track on how local business, Baker Brothers Diamonds, made the end of one school’s academic year one to remember

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ost readers will have happy memories of the last day of school term. Perhaps it ended with a sports day, or with classes dedicated to playing games – or in the case for one local lucky school, the academic year came to a close with a veritable feast.

Plans were conjured up for an end-of-year picnic courtesy of big-hearted business, Baker Brothers Diamonds. The family-run jeweller recently ran a successful social media competition giving local schools the chance to win a fantastic feast for up to 100 pupils to celebrate the end of the school year as part of its newly launched community fund. Delighted pupils from winning school, Carlton C of E Primary School, tucked into their perfect picnic prize enjoying sandwiches and treats.

Baker Brothers director, Lizzie McAuley, says: “We wanted to give local schools the chance to win a fun, end-of-year picnic to recognise all the hard work by pupils and their teachers. This is the first of many ways we plan to provide support, sponsorship and exciting experiences for local schools, clubs and charities. It is important to give something back to our local community.”

Gail Highton, head of Carlton C of E Primary School, adds: “We were thrilled and delighted when we heard we had won this wonderful treat for the children.

What a huge boost to morale at the end of an incredibly difficult year.”

To further support the local community, Baker Brothers Diamonds enlisted caterer Sarah Hibbert from Sarah’s Eats and

PUPILS FROM THE WINNING SCHOOL

Treats, based in Bedford, to supply the picnic treats. Ahead of the picnic event a number of classes had to isolate. To ensure those children didn’t miss out on the tasty treats, the Baker Brothers' team worked with Hibbert and the school to provide personal picnics in individual bags, which were then delivered to pupils’ homes by parent helpers, ensuring it was indeed a day to remember for all.

For more information about the community fund contact Baker Brothers Diamonds at email@bakerbrothersdiamonds.com, call 01234 352 343 or visit bakerbrothersdiamonds. com/community-fund/

GAIL HIGHTON AND LIZZIE MCAULEY ORGANISE PICNIC TREATS

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EDUCATION • PROFILE

“Students are gently stretched beyond the limits of what they perceive to be their ability”

Broadening HORIZONS How St Edmund’s College & Prep School create well-rounded students, fully equipped for what may lie ahead in the future

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et in 400 acres in a beautiful, rural location north of London, St Edmund’s College and Prep is the oldest Catholic school in England – and a school of universal values, where everybody is warmly welcomed.

At St Edmund’s, the spiritual, academic, pastoral, and co-curricular are of equal value, and these four elements come together to offer a formation that is second to none. They believe that the true measure of their success should always be the qualities of the young men and women they send out into the world: excellent but never arrogant; ambitious but never selfish; robust but never uncaring; faith-filled but never intolerant.

St Edmund’s treats everyone as an individual, providing a broad, balanced

curriculum. Through their High Performance Learning framework and a campus-wide focus on higher-order thinking and advanced learning skills, students are gently stretched beyond the limits of what they perceive to be their ability while cultivating a love of learning. They offer an excellent choice of subjects, taught in small class sizes, and whilst they do not focus solely on grades and pass rates, they are very proud of the College’s academic standing and the destinations of their leavers.

From Nursery to Sixth Form, they have a renowned pastoral system overseeing the students’ personal development.

They ensure that academic excellence is complemented by cultural, sporting, and social development, aided by their extensive, modern facilities. Students choose from a wide range of activities, from fencing and golf to debating and cooking.

They have a thriving music department offering specialist one to one teaching, school productions, choirs, and orchestras.

Additionally, they offer over 15 sports, from football for girls and boys to rugby, cricket, hockey, netball. Alongside the exciting activities and regular overseas trips, College students can participate in their Combined Cadet Force, St Edmund’s Award and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award.

They welcome students aged 3-18, offering a boarding provision for students age 11+. They run their own private bus service with pick up points throughout Hertfordshire. Additionally, they offer an extended day option for family flexibility in the Prep and College. They welcome applications for all years should they have space available; however, their main entry points are 3+, 4+, 7+, 11+, 13+ and 16+. Scholarships are available at 7+, 11+, and 16+ and bursaries are available at the 11+ (Year 7) entry point.

ST E D M U N D ’ S C O L L E G E & PREP SCHOOL Old Hall Green, Ware, SG11 1DS 01920 821504 stedmundscollege.org

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X X / X X X POINT XXX • TALKING EDUCATIONX X

Are exams fit for

PURPOSE? Like the first cuckoo of spring, debate about public exams signals summer. But the past year has raised even more questions. We get perspectives from experts on the education front line

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EDUCATION • TALKING POINT

“The change that does need to happen is that GCSE, A level and BTEC should become separate from Government interference” JESSE ELZINGA

HEADMASTER, SEVENOAKS SCHOOL

Sevenoaks School adopted the IB Diploma over 40 years ago, going exclusively IB post-16 some 15 years ago

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ummer means that perennial topic raises its head again – public examinations. Parents and teachers everywhere are forced to consider, sometimes wearily, the debate over how we’re testing, why we’re testing and whether the results current tests produce are worth the paper they’re written on.

The past year has thrown up even more issues – and a much broader debate – since Covid stopped normal assessment processes at 16 and 18. What is certain is that this debate has some way to run, but in the meantime we asked three school insiders to give their perspectives on the current public examinations landscape.

“My view is that qualifications are fit for purpose in the UK. The chaos of the public exam debacle of 2020 brought into sharp relief the difficulty of trying to find a fair way of awarding grades in the absence of externally marked assessment, be that examination or coursework. The arrangements for 2021 remain very complicated and difficult, putting even more pressure on schools.

My overarching view is that external awarding bodies serve a valid purpose; they offer high-quality qualifications that are marked anonymously and objectively, and are not subject to parental pressure or teacher assessment. It is true that there are, from time to time, inconsistencies in the marking of public exams in this country. However, exam boards do have the hierarchy of markers, with senior examiners checking work and overseeing appeals, and I think mechanisms for reviewing marking are effective overall. In the vast majority of cases, I know that most schools think a fair grade was awarded.

One of the biggest challenges for GCSE, A level, BTEC and other qualifications overseen by the UK Government is that these qualifications are too often tampered, particularly when there is a change of Government or a new Secretary of State for Education who wants to make their own mark. Michael Gove’s reforms, in his time as Secretary of State for Education, were

far too radical and ambitious, and left the sector reeling for several years with further amendments since. Ideally, the Department of Education would be a separate branch of Government that is apolitical, where the people in charge are specialists in education rather than Government ministers who, by definition, have a limited tenure. Changes are too often motivated by politics or pressure from the press, rather than what is good for education.

The significant advantage of the IB Diploma Programme is that it is run by a non-profit external body, the IBO, and is not subject to the whims of Government. On the contrary, it is taught in more than 150 countries and has changed very little since it was first established more than 50 years ago. Of course, during the pandemic and in the absence of exams, the IBO has also had to think quickly about how to award qualifications and have had their own challenges.

The qualifications of GSCE, A level and IB that are offered across the UK are all very well respected by universities and employers. They offer a fair benchmark at these age points and are passports for the next stage of education. We have learned in the pandemic of the difficulty of awarding fair grades in a transparent process without public exams, and for many people in education a return to normality in the next academic year will be a great relief. I do not think it is the time to throw out any qualifications. The change that does need to happen is that GCSE, A level and BTEC should become separate from Government interference in the same way the IB Diploma is.”

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EDUCATION • TALKING POINT

“The advantage of the UK system is that it provides for both breadth and specialism, and also for students to change their pathway”

KEVIN STANNARD

DIRECTOR OF INNOVATION & LEARNING, GDST

Dr Kevin Stannard of the Girls’ Day School Trust previously worked with Cambridge University’s international exams board “The debate about A levels and its alternatives is fundamentally different from that about GCSEs. It makes sense to have some sort of school-leaving qualification, externally verified, that signals a young person’s readiness to progress to the next stage. The problem with A level is that it is being made to serve two very different – even conflicting – functions: as a general schoolleaving certificate for some young people; and as a sorting mechanism for entry to selective universities. Maybe these should be separated, with the sorting (and the attendant need for slicing and dicing in terms of grades) left to the universities themselves.

One anomaly of A level is its timing – with results coming after university application and hence the need to issue conditional offers. The move to post-qualification application should be a priority, for the sake of fairness and fitness for purpose. Another anomaly (compared with other countries) is A level’s reductiveness – forcing most students to narrow down to three subjects at an unusually early age. This connects it with the problem with GCSE: without the need to jettison subjects at sixteen, there would be no need for high-stakes exams in those subjects at that point. GCSE exists because many students once left school at sixteen. The school-leaving age is now higher, and this battery of high-stakes tests remains as a relic of past times. Not only does it not serve a useful purpose, it actually forces education out of shape.

Time that could be spent teaching is taken up with testing; teaching itself is

LEFT A pupil at Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate RIGHT Jesse Elzinga, Headmaster at Sevenoaks School

focused on test-prep rather than expansive exploration; and the vast amount spent on administering the exam system diverts funds from resourcing schools properly.

The cancellation of exams last year, revealed the GCSE system as resembling the emperor’s new clothes: GCSEs were awarded on the basis of teachers’ judgements, and it arguably made next to no difference to students’ trajectories.”

DAN MACHIN

ACTING PRINCIPAL, QUEEN ETHELBURGA’S COLLEGIATE

QE offers its students both A levels and BTEC exam options “A levels remain one of the world’s leading qualifications for pre-university study.

Nationally and internationally, they are recognised by universities and employers as a high-quality, reliable opportunity for students to show what they are capable of achieving. As they are administered and assessed independently by examination boards, the results continue to retain a high level of integrity. In my view, BTECs also provide outstanding preparation

for university, as well as for future employment. Key to their success is their ability to offer an academically rigorous alternative at the same time as developing practical, real-world skills.

Not all students are able to demonstrate their abilities and strengths through end-of-course examinations alone.

GCSEs provide structure and focus for students who would otherwise be very inexperienced in the demands of public examinations. They allow students to demonstrate ability across a wide range of subjects and at different levels, and the recent move to introduce Grades 7-9 allows for greater differentiation of ability. Where GCSEs would benefit from future review is in the range of options available in English, mathematics, and the sciences to broaden choice.

The UK system provides for both breadth and specialism, and also for students to change their pathway. For some, the ability to specialise early is of great advantage in today’s competitive university and jobs markets. For others, the flexibility of the UK education system allows for experimentation, choice and wide-ranging skills development.”

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©2021 All rights reserved Young Soles. Photography by Gemma Booth.

AU T U M N 2021 WITH

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SPECI A L ISSUE

absolutely-mama.co.uk

In this section:

Sleep truths

Advice from an expert •

Buggy news

The lowdown on Leclerc Baby

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m a m a SLEEP

S L E E P T I G H T A sleep consultant explains why parents don’t need to accept sleep deprivation…

By KAREN MILLER

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ou can forget about sleep now!’ is a very common phrase that new and expecting parents are sure to hear over and over again from friends and family.

It’s commonly accepted that once you have a child, sleep deprivation is the norm and something you just have to learn to live with.

We seem to have made little progress over the years when it comes to advice around babies’ sleep.

Phrases such as ‘Sleep when the baby sleeps’ and ‘It’s just a phase’ as well as ‘Get used to being exhausted’ are simply not helpful.

The truth is, sleep is a biological need, not a luxury. The consequences of getting less than seven hours sleep a night on someone’s physical and mental health are much more serious than people realise.

More than 1 in 10 women in the UK suffer with postnatal depression, according to the NHS, and up to 1 in 10 new fathers are also suffering. More needs to be done to educate new parents on the links between sleep deprivation and mental health issues.

In his book ‘Why We Sleep’, Matthew Walker talks about how sleeping less than six to seven hours a night demolishes your immune system, more than doubling

your risk of cancer. He explains that insufficient sleep is a key lifestyle factor as to whether or not you will develop Alzheimer’s disease. It also contributes to all major psychiatric conditions, including depression, anxiety and suicidality. Most shockingly, Walker discusses how drowsy driving, which are accidents caused by sleep deprived drivers, exceed those caused by alcohol and drugs combined.

As a sleep consultant, I know that many parents feel guilty for reaching out for support and wanting their child to sleep. Many are even suffering with severe anxiety as a result.

The loss of control and exhaustion some mothers feel spending all day trying and failing to get their baby to sleep, only to be up all night as well, is frankly miserable.

Added to that is the pressure of having to potentially go back to work on little to no sleep, with many expressing that they don’t know how they will cope, but they feel like they have little choice.

Not only does it affect the mother’s ability to function as a parent but it can

“Sleep is a biological need, not a luxury”

also impact your relationship. Many couples end up sleeping in separate rooms and miss having their evenings to spend with their partner. Weekends are mostly spent with dads trying to carry some of the burden, so mum can catch up on some sleep, but where does that leave you as a couple?

It’s becoming more acceptable to reach out and ask for help for things like breastfeeding, for example, with lots of support available, but when it comes to sleep there seems to be this unwritten rule that you just have to accept it. Mums feel judged for expressing their concern over their child’s sleep and many do not admit to using a sleep consultant, for fear of others thinking they are being selfish for wanting a good night’s sleep.

But what can you do to help your child sleep more soundly?

Sleep Environment Creating the right environment can help promote the sleepy hormone, melatonin, which helps baby to settle and stay asleep.

Use black out blinds to keep the room as dark as possible and keep the temperature between 18-20c. Night lights are great for toddlers when they become scared of the dark around age three, and avoid white/ blue light which can block melatonin.

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Awake Windows Avoiding the dreaded overtiredness makes all the difference in how well your child sleeps. To do this, don’t rely on tired signs as some babies don’t have any. Instead find out what their ideal awake windows are for their age and stick to those. Put them to sleep within that window of time, not after, and this will help to ensure they settle quickly.

Sleep Props

all, especially if baby is over four months they may settle themselves back to sleep.

The most important thing to remember is there is no right or wrong way for getting your child to sleep – but it is possible for them to sleep well. Sleep isn’t something for the select lucky few who have ‘good’ babies, it’s important for everyone to be able to function properly.

It’s time to make sleep a priority because there is a reason why everything is better after a good night’s sleep.

Consider which sleep associations you’re comfortable with. Dummies are great for newborns but can become an issue after four months. Use positive sleep props like comfy toys, swaddles and white noise.

Don’t Rush In Overnight – stop, listen and then react.

This will help you to learn what type of cry it is. Are they genuinely hungry? Do they need help to calm down or are they just tired? Sometimes we don’t need to go in at

Karen Miller is a Baby and Toddler Sleep Consultant and founder of Asleep At Last

asleepatlast.co.uk @karenmiller_asleepatlast

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ma m a BRAND

FOUR WHEELS GOOD Mama quizzes the brains behind buggy brand Leclerc Baby

Q Tell us about Leclerc Baby. What

makes your buggies special?

A Being a parent doesn’t mean that you

“We want parents

to live their most beautiful life and enjoy every moment of it”

have to radically change your lifestyle.

At Leclerc Baby we want parents to live their most beautiful life and enjoy every single moment of it. With the Leclerc Baby pushchairs, we make parenting much easier and safer. With the one-touch folding systems, Leclerc Baby offers a smart solution that allows you and your child to travel ultra-light, compact, and above all very safe. The one-touch folding mechanism allows you to fold and unfold using just one hand. If you travel by car this means that you can hold your child in one hand and fold or unfold with the other hand without leaving your child unattended on the street for a moment.

Q Who is the Leclerc Baby

buggy designed for?

A Leclerc Baby strollers are designed for parents with a sense of quality and design.

Those who want to do no concession to comfort and quality and are looking for an all-in-one stroller solution that they can use in any possible location.

Q What’s new from your brand?

A Next to the MF Plus collection (£359)

and the award-winning Influencer collection (£399), Leclerc Baby is about to launch their Hexagon collection (£539).

These exclusive pushchairs are designed by famous Dutch fashion designer

Christian Lagerwaard and are a real eye-catcher. These pushchairs are based on the same auto-fold mechanism but are customised using the highest quality of velvet and leatherette. The pushchairs can even be ordered with personalized embroidery of your child’s name.

Q How does the buggy suit urban life?

A The Leclerc Baby pushchairs are great

for people who love to travel or for people with a city lifestyle. If you travel by air, the pushchair can easily be placed in most overhead lockers. The ultra-compact size also allows you to travel comfortably by public transportation. With a broad range of accessories, the Leclerc Baby pushchairs can be seen as all in one – 0 to 5 years solutions. The pushchair can be used in combination with an easy-to-store carrycot or changed into a twin/duo combination using the Leclerc Baby twin/duo adaptors.

Q What should we be

looking for in a buggy?

A A pushchair should make parenting a

bit easier. It should fold and unfold easily and it needs to be light and compact for travelling. At the same time, it should have all characteristics of a traditional buggy or pram such as comfort and safety. With integrated mesh in the seat, reflective shoulder pads and a five-point magnetic buckle belt Leclerc Baby proves to take safety very seriously. Of course, design plays an important role when choosing a pushchair as well, but at Leclerc Baby, we believe that the current popularity of our brand is mainly caused by the quality and safety standards of our products.

leclercbaby.com A B S O L U T E LY. L O N D O N

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£499,950

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£429,995

£545,000

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PROPERTY

CHERRY TREE COTTAGE WD3

£1,295,000

his gem is such a pretty cottage in a prestigious cul de sac with four double bedrooms plus an attached selfcontained one bedroom annexe. Once owned by the Cambridge College, Gonville & Caius, there’s history, character and potential to make it your own masterpiece. Trend & Thomas are currently hunting for the Cherry Tree – if there isn’t one, that’s their gift to the new owners.

T

TREND & THOMAS 01923 773 616 trendandthomas.co.uk

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NEW RELEASE A development of luxury 4 & 5 bedroom family homes set within an exclusive private, gated development in Hertfordshire.

PRICES FROM £975,000 CALL US TODAY AND BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT TO VIEW OUR NEWLY LAUNCHED ASCOT SHOWHOME

104 Cuffley Hill | Goff’s Oak | EN7 5EY

020 8441 955 5

NEWHOMES@STATONS.COM www.chasenewhomes.co.uk

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PROPERTY • FOCUS

DOWN TO A TEE Behind the scenes at a stunning Hadley Wood home that features everything from a lake to its own pitch and putt golf course

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“Parkside House is a hidden gem that offers versatile accommodation”

A

n extremely rare opportunity has come up to acquire an imposing family residence in the delightful setting of Ferny Hill. Parkside House features two detached annexes above garages and stables in approximately six acres of formal and informal grounds, with a well stocked lake, tennis court and pitch and putt golf course.

Parkside House is a hidden gem that offers versatile accommodation and is accessed via a long sweeping private driveway. A buyer will have the opportunity to enhance the current home and grounds to make it their own country estate. This home consists of seven reception rooms in the main house with many of the spaces benefiting from dual aspects that overlook the picturesque gardens. One of the reception rooms, which is currently used as a family/living/dining room, also has the capacity to be turned back into an indoor leisure suite as there is still a

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swimming pool underneath the false floor.

Heading to the first floor and there are five bedrooms including the principle suite, which includes a spacious dressing room and en-suite shower room. Two other bedrooms also have en-suites and there are built in wardrobes to all the bedrooms. To complete this floor there is also a family bathroom. On the second floor there is further room that would make the perfect study.

This home also benefits from two guest or staff annexes (above two separate garages) which are separated from the main house and both consist of an open plan kitchen/living room, bedroom and shower room. Externally there are various other outbuildings including three stables, a tack room which adjoins a barn being approximately 1,935 sq ft, and there is also garaging for at least four cars. The grounds are beautifully landscaped and have a wide array of plants, shrubs and trees with various formal and informal lawns and avenues. The pitch and putt golf course takes you on an adventure through

the grounds and encounters various obstacles that make it quite the challenge.

The location could not be better. Hadley Wood mainline station offers a 30 minute journey time to Moorgate and Kings Cross, and Cockfosters underground station (Piccadilly line) is a short drive away, as is junction 24 of the M25, providing an excellent link to the M1 and all major airports including Heathrow, Luton and Stanstead. The area is well served by educational facilities which include Stormont, Lochinver, Haberdashers' Aske's for Boys, Haberdashers' Aske's for Girls, Mill Hill School, Aldenham, Belmont, Dame Alice Owen, Haileybury, Queenswood, Queen Elizabeth's Boys School and Queen Elizabeth’s Girls’ School. Recreational facilities in the area include Hadley Wood Golf Club – but with your own mini course, perhaps there will be no place like home.

STATO N S For more information about Parkside House, contact Statons by calling 020 8440 9797 or emailing hadley@statons.com

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Scan here to see the full details of all our properties

Shepherd’s Way, Rickmansworth £1,050,000 Freehold

Sherfield Avenue, Rickmansworth Guide Price £865,000 Freehold

A very attractive 1920’s three bedroom detached home on a generous plot ideal for further extension STPP. The property occupies a sought after location within the Cedars Estate.

This three / four bedroom semi detached family home is beautifully presented, has a large rear garden and is conveniently situated near the Rickmansworth Aquadrome & Town Centre.

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Sherfield Avenue, Rickmansworth £799,950 Freehold

The Grove, Croxley Green £785,000 Leasehold

A two - three bedroom detached bungalow in an elevated position with idyllic mature gardens in a sought after location.

The word for this first floor apartment is elegant!

Beautifully refurbished and overlooking The Green, the property offers two en-suite bedrooms plus a further bedroom/office and a family bathroom.

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01923 773 616 www.trendandthomas.co.uk | sales@trendandthomas.co.uk TT.indd 1

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A natural BEAUTY Inside a wonderful period country house with approx 37 acres and an extensive range of barns and outbuildings

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H

astoe Cross Cottage is a delightful Grade II listed period house situated on the Hertfordshire/ Buckinghamshire border and within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Located towards the northern tip of the renowned Chiltern Hills, the house offers a wonderful combination of countryside living with excellent communication links to London and the North.

Hastoe Cross Cottage is a lovely family home with elegant traditional features including exposed timbers, brick tiles floors and feature fireplaces. There are some lovely architectural elements including Georgian windows, beams and a stunning stained glass panel.

The property is presented in a stylish and traditional fashion and has a number of lovely rooms, in particular the bright and

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PROPERTY • FOCUS

“It is a lovely family home with elegant traditional features including exposed timbers and feature fireplaces” spacious garden room with vaulted ceiling and the fabulous oak panelled home office/ study, which is accessed from a wrought iron staircase from the garden room.

The bright and spacious double aspect kitchen/breakfast room boasts an Aga and enjoys views over the rear gardens.

A door leads through to a useful utility/ boot room and cloakroom. On the first floor, five bedrooms and two bathrooms can be found, and one of those bedrooms features an en-suite shower room.

The property is approached through electronically operated gates and over a long gravel driveway, which takes you down to the house to a lovely turning circle.

Attractive lawned front gardens flank the driveway and feature numerous shrubs and trees. There are two useful garden stores set beneath the first floor home office/study.

Back towards the head of the driveway is a large snooker/party barn, which offers a multitude of uses. Adjoining this barn is a dog kennel, bull pen and an open bay store. A secondary driveway leads to the range of barns and outbuildings, again all offering numerous uses. There is a block of stables including five loose boxes, tack room and garden store, and all barn and outbuildings have light and power connected. It should be noted that plans have been commissioned for some

of the barns/outbuildings to be converted into separate residential dwellings, although no formal application has been submitted to date to the local authority.

The land at Hastoe Cross Cottage lies predominately to the north and west of the house and is currently grazed under a farm tenancy agreement. There are four principal fields that are all enclosed with a combination of mature hedgerows and fencing. For those with an equestrian interest, the fields provide excellent grazing and on reaching the most northern field, some of the very finest views in the county can be admired that extend over to the most northern tip of the Chiltern Hills known as Ivinghoe Beacon.

SAV I L L S Hastoe Cross Cottage is on the market for £3,000,000 with Savills Harpenden. Find out more by calling 01582 465 000 or visiting savills.co.uk

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A STUNNING COLLECTION OF 4 & 5 BEDROOM CONTEMPOR ARY EXECUTIVE FAMILY HOMES A PRIVATE DEVELOPMENT ADJACENT TO THE BROXBOURNE SCHOOL (OFSTED RATED GOOD)

SHOW HOME NOW OPEN

– Designer kitchens with Siemens appliances and quartz work surfaces – Underfloor heating to the ground floor, Amtico flooring and fitted carpets – Less than 30 minutes to London Liverpool Street* PR ICES FROM £715,0 0 0 Scholars | High Road | Broxbourne | EN10 7HE

SALES & MARKETING SUITE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

By appointment only. 10am–5pm.

CALL 01992 663 890 salesherts@hamptons.co.uk *By train travelling from Broxbourne station. Travel times taken from National Rail.

www.hamptons.co.uk

An exclusive collection of nine 2 & 3 bedroom apartments Short distance from Enfield Town and Enfield Chase stations Private parking

Contemporary Shaker kitchens

32 minutes to London King’s Cross by train

Prices from £599,950 – £925,000

For sales enquiries 020 8370 3999 saleslondon@hamptons.co.uk

Internal images are of a previous showhome and used for guidance only.

Computer generated image is indicative only.

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