Absolute Sussex Easter 2018 Edition 139 by Absolute Magazine Group

ABSOLUTE SUSSEX EDITION 139 EASTER 2018

FASHION | STYLE | CULTURE | LIVING | TRAVEL

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RANGE ROVER EVOQUE

OVER 170 INTERNATIONAL AWARDS AND COUNTING.

£3,500 HARWOODS DEPOSIT CONTRIBUTION The Range Rover Evoque is the perfect car for exploring the city and is available in six unique models – SE, SE Tech, HSE Dynamic, HSE Dynamic Lux, Autobiography and Landmark Edition. The prominent lines create a bold shape, which is certain to leave a lasting impression and make its road presence known. Each of the Evoque models offers fun and practicality, featuring the latest technology alongside stylish and contemporary interiors. Contact us to find out more. Harwoods Lewes Brooks Road, Lewes, East Sussex BN7 2DN 01273 610586 harwoods.uk.com

Land Rover Freedom Personal Contract Purchase Finance Example – Range Rover Evoque 2.0 TD4 HSE Dynamic 5 Door Automatic 36 Monthly Payments £399.00 Harwoods Deposit Contribution £3,500.00 On the Road Cash Price £44,390.00 Customer Deposit £8,960.00 Total Amount of Credit £31,930.00 Purchase Fee (incl. in optional final payment) £10.00 Optional Final Payment £22,404.00 Total Amount Payable £49,228.00 Duration of Agreement (months) 37 Annual Mileage (Excess mileage charges apply) 10,000 Rate of Interest (Fixed) 5.75% APR 5.9% Excess mileage charge rates: 4,999 or less 14 pence per mile 5,000 or more 28 pence per mile

Official Fuel Consumption Figures for the Range Rover Evoque (Five-door and Coupé) range in mpg (I/100km): Urban 27.4-57.7 (10.3-4.9); Extra Urban 44.1-76.4 (6.4-3.7); Combined 36.2-67.3 (7.8-4.2). CO2 Emissions 181-109g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparative purposes only. With Land Rover Freedom Personal Contract Purchase you have the option at the end of the agreement to: (1) return the vehicle and not pay the Final Payment. If the vehicle has exceeded the allowed mileage a charge per excess mile will apply. In this example, 14p per excess mile up to 4,999, or for excess mileage of 5,000 or more, a charge of 28p will apply to each excess mile above the allowed mileage. If the vehicle is in good condition and has not exceeded the allowed mileage you will have nothing further to pay; (2) pay the Final Payment to own the vehicle or (3) part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing credit agreement; new credit agreements are subject to status. Representative example is based upon an annual mileage of 10,000 miles. Credit is subject to status and only available to applicants aged 18 and over resident in Mainland UK and N. Ireland. This credit offer is only available through Black Horse Limited trading as Land Rover Financial Services, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. We can introduce you to Land Rover Financial Services and a limited number of other lenders to provide funding for your vehicle. We may receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to such lenders. Portions of this page are reproduced from work created and shared by Google and used according to terms described in the Creative Commons 3.0 Attribution License. Harwoods Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number: 714708, as a Credit Broker not a Lender. Harwoods Limited is an Appointed Representative of AutoProtect (MBI) Limited for the purpose of insurance mediation. AutoProtect (MBI) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 312143). Representative APR available on new models registered between 1st January and 31st March 2018 at participating Retailers. 21846.

E-PACE: BORN TO EXCITE THE SENSES AT HARWOODS JAGUAR

E-PACE 2.0D 150 2WD The all-new E-PACE is Jaguar’s first ever compact SUV, with space for everyting you need. As the newest member of the Jaguar family, the E-PACE stays true to the distinct class-leading Jaguar design and delivers a smooth and energetic drive. Call or visit to book your test drive today. Harwoods Jaguar Brighton 270 Old Shoreham Road, Hove, Shoreham-by-Sea BN3 7EG 01273 272727 harwoods.uk.com

JAGUAR PRIVILEGE PCPF REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE FOR JAGUAR E-PACE 2.0D 150 2WD 48 monthly payments £298.00 On the road price £28,500.00 Customer deposit £4,245.00 Total amount of credit £24,255.00 Purchase fee (included in final payment) £10.00 Optional final payment £14,537.00 Total amount payable £33,086.00 Duration of agreement 49 months Annual mileage* 10,000 Interest rate (fixed) 5.76% Representative APR 5.9% * Excess mileage charges apply Excess mileage charges: Up to 4,999 14p per mile Over 5,000 28p per mile

Official fuel consumption for the Jaguar E-PACE range in mpg (l/100km): Urban 29.1-50.4 (9.7-5.6); Extra Urban 40.4-67.3 (7.0-4.2); Combined 35.3-60.1 (8.0-4.7). CO2 Emissions 181-124 g/km. Official EU Test Figures. For comparison purposes only. Real world figures may differ. Important Information. Representative example relates to a Jaguar E-PACE 2.0D 150PS 2WD. 5.9% APR Representative available on new Jaguar E-PACE models registered between 1st January 2018 to 31st March 2018 at participating Retailers only. FWith Jaguar Personal Contract Purchase (PCP) you have the option at the end of the agreement to: (1) return the vehicle and not pay the Optional Final Payment. If the vehicle has exceeded the maximum agreed mileage a charge per excess mile will apply. In this example, 14p plus VAT per excess mile up to 4,999, or for excess mileage of 5,000 or more, a charge of 28p plus VAT will apply to each excess mile above the maximum agreed mileage. If the vehicle is in good condition (fair wear and tear) and has not exceeded the maximum agreed mileage you will have nothing further to pay; (2) pay the Optional Final Payment to own the vehicle or (3) part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing credit agreement; new credit agreements are subject to status. Representative Example is based upon an annual mileage of 10,000 miles. Credit is subject to status and is only available to UK residents aged 18 and over. This credit offer is only available through Black Horse Limited trading as Jaguar Financial Services, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff CF10 5BH. Harwoods Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number: 714708, as a Credit Broker not a Lender. Harwoods Limited is an Appointed Representative of AutoProtect (MBI) Limited for the purpose of insurance mediation. AutoProtect (MBI) Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA number 312143). Harwoods works with a number of creditors, including Jaguar UK, and we may receive an incentive from them.

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Index 10 16 14 28 34 40 46 50 56 60 62 66 70 76 78 82 86 98 104 110 122 128 134 144

CITY NEWS FASHION FASHION EMBRACE GATWICK AIRPORT EASTWING GRESHAM BLAKE JEREMY HOYE BRIGHTON RACES FIZZ & FOOD BARS & BEATS COFFEE & CAKE THIRD AVENUE KOOKS CIN CIN WORTHING MIND & BODY BRIGHTON GIRL PROBLEMS LONDON LIFE SEYCHELLES AMBERLY CASTLE FASHION STREET STYLE DAVID FREEMAN PHOTOGRAPHY EAGLE LABS

Contributing Editors - Charlie McBrien | Matt Parr | Shelley Louise Welti | Victoria Marie Emerson | Lindsay Katherine Hills Pete Hayward | Kasia (The Styling Agency) Tony Shattell (food reviewer) Brighton Girl Problems Blogger Fashion, Beauty & Interior Styling Editor - Kasia (The Styling Agency) Features Editor - Victoria Marie Emerson - info@absolutemagazine.co.uk Commercial Sales - James Dennis - james@absolutemagazine.co.uk Designer - Pete Hayward - petehayward.design Owners - Publishers Simon Darcy Abbott - simon@absolutemagazine.co.uk David Camici - dcamici@absolutemagazine.co.uk

Cover Shot Photography – Daren Black Photography Model – Layla Harris Clothes – Raffles Boutique & Kankan Seychelles Location – Raffles Praslin Island Seychelles

ABSOLUTE is owned and produced by Make a Difference Media Ltd Absolute offices 1 Preston Road, Brighton, BN1 4QU

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The Editor

elcome to a new year and a new look Absolute. We are now fully Sussex wide in our distribution, and every new issue is even more significant than ever!

For this important launch edition, we have selected some of Brighton’s best names to showcase them to our new readers, and we’ve teamed up with a few of the most prominent brands in Sussex. We have interviews from Embrace on their new album release, Jeremy

Hoye, the iconic Brighton based jewellery designer, Gresham Blake on his new collections

for 2018 and Eastwing Grooming Co’s creator on this exciting new business that’s set to be the next big thing to come out of the city. From a business point of view, we take an in-depth look at the plans for the 2nd runway at Gatwick and its tremendous benefits to businesses large and small across the county.

For all the foodies out there, we look at two newbies on the Brighton scene; 3rd Avenue and the latest CIN CIN, plus KOOKS, a fab independent making its mark on the city.

Our cover and fashion links this issue with our travel escapes feature - Seychelles. We

offer an overview to these stunning islands, now British Airways has started a direct route there from Heathrow in March and look at each end of the Seychelles scale; Raffles the ultimate in island luxury and pampering and Bird Island, The pinnacle of untouched natural beauty- a real hidden gem.

Lastly, we get all zen and take a look at the mind, body and soul in our yearly wellbeing

round up of businesses that aim to help in the pursuit of perfect health and fitness. Add to that all your regular faves like London Life, images from the month, street style, Coffee &

Cake and our 32 page Homes magazine, and it’s a genuine bumper issue to kick us off into Sussex in style, with our aim to be the number one title in the region. Enjoy

Absolute

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News

Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra Coming to the Brighton Dome on Sunday 4th March 2018 is Brighton Philharmonic Orchestra as popular guest conductor Stephen Bell joins them to explore the music of Russia, and notably one of Tchaikovsky’s most famous symphonies – Symphony No.4. Written between 1877 and 1878 it was to prove a towering success for the composer and has remained one of the public’s most favourite symphonies.

Armenian composer Alexander Arutunian wrote his virtuosic Trumpet Concerto between 1949 and 1950. Principal Trumpet of the Hallé, Gareth Small, is the guest soloist in this fabulous showpiece concerto with it’s soulful, beautiful melodies, technical difficulties and exciting gypsy-like sound.

The concert opens with two works celebrating the Russia of the Tsars – Glinka’s characteristically Russian sounding overture from A Life for the Tsar (the story of a young Russian peasant who saves the Tsar from a group of Polish kidnappers) and Mussorgsky’s demonic tone poem Night on a Bare Mountain (depicting a witches’ Sabbath and used in the penultimate scene of Walt Disney’s Fantasia).

Paloma Faith

X Factor Live

Paloma Faith returns to The Brighton Centre on Monday 12th March as a part of her The Architect 2018 tour! Paloma Faith – one of only two British female artists this decade to have their last three albums go double platinum in the UK – will release her long-awaited fourth album, ‘The Architect’, on November 17 via RCA Records.

The X Factor Live Tour is returning to The Brighton Centre on Sunday 4th March 2018 and for the first time ever the audience will choose their own winner…each and every night! The X Factor digital host, Becca Dudley, will be on the road with the contestants and presenting the tour competition each night. Plus, at the end of each show, the audience will then become the judges and choose the winner! The X Factor Live Tour has thrilled more than three million people since it began 13 years ago, making it one of the UK’s most successful annual arena tours. There are a limited number of Family Tickets (4 tickets maximum 2 adults) available from the venue box office or Ticketmaster online.

The new album – her first in more than three years and since giving birth to her first child – features an array of acclaimed co-writers, producers and collaborators including: Sia, John Legend, Jesse Shatkin, TMS, Starsmith, Tobias Jesso Jr., Eg White, Rag'n'Bone Man, actor Samuel L. Jackson and journalist and activist Owen Jones.

Paloma, who won the BRIT Award for British Female Solo Artist in 2015 following the phenomenal success of her last record, 2014’s ‘A Perfect Contradiction’, explores both personal and political themes on the album.

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Charity Abseil: iDrop Special Events On March 17th 2018, for the first time, the British Airways i360 will be opening the pod doors while you’re at the top of the tower and allowing thrill-seeking members of the public to abseil back down again. iDrop will be operated by Belay Ropes Access and is open to the first 30 people to sign up who can raise a minimum £1,000* each in sponsorship for Rockinghorse Children's Charity. Two levels of challenge will be available – manual and mechanical descent (the former being considered more difficult). “The sheer exposure of British Airways i360 is what makes it special because unlike other abseil venues you are descending in open space rather than against a wall. And the position on the seafront makes it unique. I would challenge anyone not to feel a few nerves when faced with a 450ft drop, so even for experienced people this will present a fearsome challenge.” Belay Ropes Access Director Iain Tindall. or by contacting the box office on 0844 847 1538.

Peaky Blinders Easter Sunday Cabaret Mansion Party After the sell out success of the New Year's Eve mansion party, Proud Country House invites you once again on Sunday 1st April to don your best flat-caps, furs and pearls for a show-stopping Peaky Blinders party this Easter. Sharp attire very much required. The dress code is strictly Peaky Blinders style or 1920’s Cabaret. The elegant gangster underworld will commence with 60 minutes of bottomless prosecco to get revellers in to the party spirit, all served alongside a delicious buffet. The party will then unfold from the marquee and inside the house, with each area playing host to its own individual delights with 1920s cabaret and 3 DJ’s playing commercial house, dance and crowd-pleasers 'til the early hours. The evening will be hosted by the bombastic cabaret icon Veronica Blacklace who will ensure all inhibitions are left at the door. Complimentary transport in dedicated coaches depart from the House every hour from 1 - 3am to take revellers back to the City Centre.

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Jaws In Concert Watch the film in full accompanied by the Czech National Orchestra at The Dome on Thursday 12th April 2018. Steven Spielberg’s original summer movie blockbuster Jaws will be screened across the country in April 2018 accompanied by the Czech National Symphony Orchestra who will perform John Williams’ Academy Award®-winning score live and in sync to the picture. The regional tour follows four hugely successful performances at the Royal Albert Hall at the weekend, as well as numerous engagements across the US. Based on the best-selling novel by Peter Benchley, this masterpiece of suspense tells the tale of a small New England seaside community terrorised by a predatory great white shark. Upon its release, Jaws became the most successful movie of all time, and Spielberg has often credited Williams’ iconic score with much of the film’s success. Now audiences will have the chance to experience the power of a live symphony orchestra performing the entire score in sync with one of the greatest motion pictures of all time – the ultimate film-with-live-orchestra experience!

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Brighton Marathon Weekend 2018 Based at Madeira Drive on 15th April 2018, the Brighton Marathon is one of the UK's favourite 26.2-milers. With a stunning backdrop of the sea in one of the country's most vibrant cities, the race gets bigger and better every year. Renowned for its buzzing atmosphere and roaring crowd support, the course winds through the city streets, finishing up on the spectacular Brighton seafront.

The Brighton Marathon Weekend is an exciting three-day running event in one of Britain’s most cosmopolitan cities, comprising The Cancer Research UK Kids & Teens Mini Mile Races on the Saturday, the BM10k and Brighton Marathon races on the Sunday and the Event Village on Brighton beach, which is open FridaySunday. This is an event for the whole family with something for everyone of all ages and abilities. The participant fields for all three races grow every year while over 150,000 spectators take to the city streets to show their support and cheer the marathon and 10k runners on, on Race Day.

Gary Numan Gary Numan embarks on a run of UK dates in 2018, kick-starting the tour at Portsmouth Pyramids on Monday 12th March 2018. Numan's most recent album Savage: Songs From A Broken World was released earlier this year. It entered the UK charts at number 2 and earnt Gary Numan the best reviews of his career yet – a fantastic achievement for this highly influential and iconic artist.

Numan grew closer to fans with his PledgeMusic campaign and offered insight as to how an album is put together, from the first note to the finish shrink wrapped package. He communicated the blood, sweat and tears that goes into making a record. Support on the night comes from Nightmare Air.

Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds

The notorious Gallagher brother will be making his mark on The Brighton Centre, Sunday 22nd April 2018 as part of a twelve-date UK & Ireland Arena Tour.

The keenly anticipated follow-up to the platinum-selling, Chasing Yesterday (2015), Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds’ third album Who Built The Moon? receives a prompt live treatment following its release on Friday 24 November 2017 on Sour Mash. While flowing from the same, molten core of melody, songwriting craft and towering self-belief, the album is poised between experimental and a jukebox of ageless influence following a bracing, two-year creative collaboration with renowned producer, DJ and composer, David Holmes.

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The Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse Plan your perfect day at Berkshire's most prestigious two-day bridal exhibition, Bride: The Wedding Show at Ascot Racecourse on 10-11 March 2018, which will bring together more than 90 of the region's finest wedding suppliers under one roof from venues to bridal designers, cake-makers to stationers and photographers to florists. There will be sensational choreographed catwalk shows taking place three times daily, showcasing a selection of the latest bridal fashions, live music on the café stage, a champagne bar to lend even more sparkle to the occasion plus free copies of Berkshire, Buckinghamshire & Oxfordshire Bride magazine to pick up. The first 100 brides through the doors each day will get a goody bag packed full of treats and favours to take home.

Tickets are £5 each or £15 for a group of four in advance (booking fee applies) available from www.bridetheweddingshow.co.uk/ show/ascot . Tickets are £7.50 on the day.

Racing at Ascot 2018: Spring Family Raceday Sunday 25th March 2018 sees the first family raceday of 2018 at Ascot. Entry is free for under 18s and offers a thrilling combination of top class racing and activities for racegoers of all ages. With spring in full swing, and Easter closing in, there are few better ways to spend a Sunday together.

Ascot’s final fixture of the 2017-18 Jumps season takes centre stage, with a mix of hurdles and chases for novices right through to veterans, attended by most of the UK’s leading jockeys and trainers.

Sections of the racecourse are split into zones, with each one providing children with fun attractions and hands-on activities. You can try your hand at some traditional crafts including basket making or wood turning, get up close to some furry friends in our petting zoo or enjoy a free pony ride - all included in the price of your ticket.member Gilson Lavis on drums.

London Visions London Visions is at The Museum of London , Smithfield until Sunday April 15 2018. Anyone who's seen 'Blade Runner' will know that predictions about the future are either wildly off or eerily prescient. Using video, installations and architectural narratives, this exhibition fantastical visions from the past of a future London. Contemporary artists, architects and designers have been enlisted to explore ideas about tomorrow’s possible worlds, taking the challenges we face today into account.

St Patrick's Day in London Rowdy singalongs, fast-paced dancing, a parade and a pint or five - the Irish have always known how to party and celebrating St Patrick’s Day in London is no exception. St Patrick’s Day in London is a chance for Irish London (and, of course, anyone and everyone who's Irishat-heart) to hit the streets and show the city the true meaning of the word ‘craic’. The official holiday lands annually on March 17 (a Saturday in 2018), but this year the main London celebrations take place in Trafalgar Square March 16-18. At this year’s three-day shindig, more than 125,000 revellers are expected to descend on Trafalgar Square for a lively parade of music and ceilidh dancing, plus plenty of things to do with the kids, from an Irish art exhibition and film festival to Irish walking tours.

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The Jungle Book at the Theatre Royal Winchester Immersion Theatre bring their trademark energy to the Theatre Royal Winchester on Saturday 7th April 2018, with their wildest show yet. A brand new musical adaptation of family favourite, The Jungle Book. You are invited to join Mowgli, Baloo the bear and Bagheera the panther on a madcap jungle adventure. Follow Mowgli and his friends as they meet and attempt to outwit a slithering snake, some cheeky monkeys and the fierce tiger, Shere Khan! Filled with catchy music, audience interaction and the chance to meet the characters after the show. Funny, exciting and wildly entertaining, this larger-than-life musical will have you howling with laughter. The perfect treat for the whole family! Recommended Age: 4+.

Kaleidoscope Festival at Ally Pally Kaleidoscope Festival is a new music and arts one-dayer which will be taking over Alexandra Palace, London on Saturday July 21. Across the Ally Pally complex, the festival will host spoken word and comedy from the likes of Dr. John Cooper Clarke and Katherine Ryan, DJs including The 2 Bears and Norman Jay, performance and theatre, plus some designated family fun to keep the small ones entertained.

Musically, it’s set to boast a credible set of seasoned festival faves. The Flaming Lips will be zorbing their way to the top of the bill, while a solid supporting cast, including Ghostpoet, Mystery Jets and The Go! Team will be propping them up.But away from the gloriously mad sounds of Wayne Coyne and co, Kaleidoscope will also be presenting a whole host of audio-visual treats to separate it from the masses.

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Fashion Shoot PHOTOGRAPHY Daren Black Photography MODEL Layla Harris First Model Management, London CLOTHES: Raffles Boutique & Kankan Seychelles LOCATION Raffles Praslin Island Seychelles

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A studio instead of a seat. That’s flying reimagined.

Discover the difference of a Business Studio on our A380. Eat when you want with menu guidance from our Food & Beverage Manager. Sleep on a large flat bed, relax with noise-cancelling headsets or work using in-seat connection ports and mobile or Wi-Fi connectivity. The ideal space for work, rest and play.

#Reimagined | etihad.com | The Etihad A380 flies daily from London Heathrow to Abu Dhabi and onwards to Sydney, Melbourne and Mumbai.

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Flying Reimagined

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Embrace Music Embrace, the alternative rock sensations from Bailiff Bridge, West Yorkshire to date have released a mega six studio albums, one singles album and one B-sides compilation. The band is made up of brothers singer Danny McNamara and guitarist Richard McNamara, together with bassist Steve Firth, keyboardist Mickey Dale and drummer Mike Heaton. The band's seventh studio album, Love Is a Basic Need, is due to be released on 2 March 2018. Danny McNamara and Mickey Dale chat to Absolute Magazine about the past present and future

irstly, the new album Love Is a Basic Need: the title is self-explanatory but would you say that sentiment is an underlying theme of the album? Most people remember to eat, breathe and drink, but too many of us forget about love until it’s too late. Until your whole world implodes or you turn into a monster. The album is about the realisation that without food or water or shelter you die, yeah, but the same is also true of love. Realising that life is incredibly short makes everything you do more vital, more important somehow. It's infused the album with a real spark, born out of a need to genuinely connect with each other above all other things. Do you have a favourite track from the album and, if so, why? All That Remains is my personal favourite. Sometimes when the band gets together to work on a song, you can just feel that a certain magic and energy is there in the room. All That Remains had all five of us totally micro-tuned in. With a song that starts from such a small place and then ramps up into a big euphoric and heartfelt outro, it allows the band to get into adding some orchestration. And that’s something we always love to do. Strings and horns are a fantastic way to heighten the emotional resonance of a song. If someone were to say to me, “Play me a song from the new album that is the most ‘classic Embrace’,” without a doubt it would be this one. I’m hugely proud of how it turned out.

It’s been mentioned that the new album is a return to classic Embrace; to the days of All You Good, Good People, My Weakness

Is None of Your Business, Ashes, Gravity and the like. Would you agree with that and, if so, was that a conscious decision? I would agree that our new album has a classic Embrace feel to it. And no, it wasn’t a conscious decision at all. It was the most natural thing for us to do, and because of that, the album recording process was probably the easiest and happiest for us all. I think we finally got comfortable being who we are! There’s a tendency for bands to overthink things, and also a tendency to think that if the art was created without loads of stress, anguish and self-doubt, then it must be no good. This time around, we trusted our instincts, trusted each other, and let the songs themselves guide us through the recording process. The song is boss. Never let the music get in the way of the song!

Your previous six studio albums have all reached the UK Top Ten, including three number ones. How important is it to you that Love Is a Basic Need achieves a similar status? To me, the new album is already a big success, simply because it’s the record we all wanted to make and it has ten really great Embrace songs on it. Don’t get me wrong, high chart positions are very nice things, but often the charts are not filled with good records and so it’s possible to measure success in other ways too. I hope we’ve made a record that our fans will fall in love with and keep returning to. That’s more of a motivation to make music than being number one. The new album features a track called Never with Kerri Watt alongside Danny on vocals; how did that come about?

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Richard, our guitar player and the person who produced this new album had also produced some tracks for Kerri at his Magnetic North Studios in Halifax. In the recording studio, it was soon obvious that Never really needed to be a duet and Kerri came in one day and really nailed it. Is there anyone else you would like to collaborate with in the future, either as a band or you personally? There are so many people I’d love to work with such as Neil Young, Nick Cave, Hans Zimmer. The list could be endless.

The album features a lot of strings and orchestration; what are the challenges you face in reproducing these sounds on tour? We’ve always found it quite easy to recreate the dynamics and scale of our more orchestrated songs. And these days the technology is so powerful that it’s never been easier. You can’t beat the sensation of an orchestra at your fingertips, especially when it’s blasting through a 20,000-watt PA system. It’s truly exhilarating! What should we expect from your shows on the March / April tour? We’ll be playing songs that span our 20year career, hopefully including all the fan favourites, and we’ll be playing songs from our new album too. I’m most looking forward to seeing how those songs go down with our fans – they’ll have had a chance to live with the album for a couple of weeks before the tour starts. We do have the greatest fans – they fly in from some far and remote places in order to support us and they look after each other too.

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Sometimes when the band gets together to work on a song, you can just feel that a certain magic and energy is there in the room."

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We’ve been together for over 20 years and so we’re very natural around each other. We enjoy each other’s company and I think that sense of brotherhood extends to our road crew and our fans – we’re one big family!" Where are your favourite places to play live? And where do you get the best reaction? We’re lucky to have devoted fans all over the UK and so the reaction is consistently amazing. We’re looking forward to London – Shepherd’s Bush Empire is a glorious venue – but, like having children, there are no favourites. We adore travelling together, especially abroad. Exploring new cities is always fun, especially with such good mates. We’ve been together for over 20 years and so we’re very natural around each other. We enjoy each other’s company and I think that sense of brotherhood extends to our road crew and our fans – we’re one big family!

Are there any plans for festivals or further touring in the UK this year? We’re adding festivals all the time. The summer is looking quite busy. Currently there are no plans for another UK tour this year, so anyone thinking of seeing us should get along to the March / April dates. You organise and curate your own Secret Festival where the audience don’t know the line-up until the acts actually walk out on stage on the day. It seems like your fans obviously trust your good taste and your ability to come up with a strong line-up each time? They’ve trusted us so far and we’ve not let them down. We’ve had Starsailor, Zutons, Badly Drawn Boy, Magic Numbers and Feeder among many others. The Secret Festival is brilliant / flawed / brilliantly flawed from the ground up. Essentially, we’re asking people to buy tickets to an event that they have no idea about, with regard to location or whom might be performing. Add to that the unpredictable British weather at the end of August and it’s a small miracle we pulled it off three years running! Will there be further Secret Festivals in the future? The planning stages of it are far beyond what I expected, as a keyboard player. Standing in a field talking about how many portaloos we need, and if there’s such a thing as fireretardant hay bales (there is!) seems rather surreal. It takes many months of planning

and there’s a lot of red tape. I’m sure we’ll return to it down the line but not this year. We’re playing another festival on that same weekend (one that doesn’t require us to perform half a dozen site visits to discuss Health & Safety!). Those of you fortunate enough to secure tickets for “Larks in Transit” have a terrific night out in prospect. Bill’s shows remain so entertaining because, after more than three decades in comedy, Bill is still as passionate about it as ever.

Going back to the early days, how did you all become friends and form Embrace? And do you remember who first came up with the name? Danny and Richard are brothers; Mike our drummer joined them early on; Steve our bass player replaced another bass guitarist; and I was the last to join in 1996. I’m not sure where the name came from, but there was a Washington DC hardcore punk band called Embrace in the late 1980s. Ian MacKaye from the DC Embrace went on to form the amazing and very influential band Fugazi. Danny wrote to Ian and asked if it was OK to use the name and he gave us his blessing. In those early days, could you ever imagine that you would be releasing number one albums and touring throughout the world? We always set our sights high. We were in our early to mid 20s, full of big dreams and a hunger to do everything as big and as well as possible. We all came from working class backgrounds where everything was strived for. We were never scared of hard work, long hours or chasing our dreams so, yes, I think we always thought it possible to have number ones and travel to exciting places like Japan and America. I think now we’re older and still together, we’re able to look back on those days with a beautiful fondness, and a wide eyed “Wow, did we really do all that???” sense of amazement. We’ll never run out of stories to tell, and great things seem to keep on happening. We’re very lucky and we never take anything for granted. How do you feel your influences have changed over the years? And what would you say are your biggest influences at the moment? As a band, we always used to talk about our influences in terms of other musicians and artists that we admire. I think as we’ve grown as a band and as people, we find our

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influences coming from other places. Life is way more complicated now because of technology and social media. Just getting out of the house and away from computer screens to enjoy a walk in the park, or a drive in the countryside, or to enjoy listening to some music without a constant distraction is very calming and inspiring, and having a clear head and calm in your life allows creative ideas to get through smoothly and intact. Inspiration can come from anywhere so long as you’re able to see it and take it in. But I doubt it can happen while spending hours each day on a social media platform. There has been a lot of media coverage about artists banning phones from their gigs recently. What are your views on this? I don’t like banning things like that, and I don’t like telling people what to do. However, phones and chatting in concerts is hugely annoying for those who want to listen. And it’s rude to the performers too, particularly if the band are trying to play quietly and create an intimate moment in their show. So rather than banning phones, I’d like to see more signs in venues, reminding people that they are there to enjoy the music and that they have a responsibility to be nice and considerate.

Are there any bands – new or old – that you’re particularly enjoying at the moment? There is so much good stuff around at the moment! We’re spoilt for choice. I recently discovered a band called Ought, who reside in Canada. They remind me a lot of The Fall. The debut Orielles album is sounding fresh, and I recently fell in love with Bon Iver’s 22 A Million album. It’s a work of staggering, beautiful genius and it’s on repeat daily!

And, finally, next year will see the 21st anniversary of your debut album, The Good Will Out, one of your three number one albums; do you have any plans to celebrate that in style? We’re throwing around our ideas of how to commemorate the album. We’re looking into a deluxe box set version with orchestral scores, unseen photos, bonus audio material etc. Plus, a run of gigs too. I’m certain that we and our fans will be celebrating this together in style.

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As a band, we always used to talk about our influences in terms of other musicians and artists that we admire. I think as we’ve grown as a band and as people, we find our influences coming from other places."

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info@thegintub.co.uk | www.thegintub.co.uk The Gin Tub | 16 Church Road | Hove | BN3 2FL

Gatwick Airport FLYING HIGH - THE FIVE YEAR PLAN

Gatwick Airport, the UK’s second largest airport and the most efficient singlerunway airport in the world, will invest £1.15 billion over the next five years.

atwick Airport, the UK’s second largest airport and the most efficient single-runway airport in the world, will invest £1.15 billion over the next five years.

The fast-paced and ever-evolving Gatwick Airport serves in excess of 228 destinations in 74 countries for 46 million passengers a year on short and long-haul point-topoint services. It is also a major economic driver for the UK contributing £5.3 billion to national GDP and generating 85,000 jobs nationally, with around 24,000 on the wider airport campus alone. Over the past 12 months alone, 22 new long-haul routes have been added, taking the total to 60 long haul destinations and making Gatwick the 5th largest long-haul network of any airport across Europe.

Chief Executive Stewart Wingate said: “Our passengers are increasingly flying to long-haul destinations as airlines of all types open up new routes beyond Europe. Over the course of 2017, we announced 22 new long haul routes to the likes of Cape Town, Kigali, Singapore, Taipei, Xi’an,

Hong Kong, Buenos Aires, Chicago, Austin, Los Angeles, Denver, Seattle, Vancouver and Toronto. In fact, we now fly to North America over 300 times a week and as a result our freight volumes have grown by 20% in the past year. And all the while, we’ve not lost sight of our passengers, investing to improve their experience, reducing queuing times, adding

Over the past 12 months alone, 22 new long-haul routes have been added, taking the total to 60 long haul destinations and making Gatwick the 5th largest long-haul network of any airport across Europe. more choice in retail, improving our on-time performance and achieving record-levels of passenger satisfaction. Passengers are voting with their feet to choose Gatwick - all we need now is a way to satisfy their growing demand.” The airport is sat just south of Central London with excellent public transport links for us Sussex types, including the

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Gatwick Express. This multi-billion investment will allow plans for more growth and improved efficiency, whilst also maintaining its record levels of passenger satisfaction. The Capital Investment Programme sets out Gatwick’s investment strategy which continues to improve facilities and transform the already world-class service. Since the airport changed ownership in December 2009 Gatwick has invested £1.5 billion. Projects include: reconfiguring stands to facilitate a changing aircraft mix, building a new hangar in partnership with Boeing, extending Pier 6 to increase pier service levels well beyond its 95% target, adding a new domestic arrivals facility in South Terminal and continuing to roll out its popular self-service bag drop product. The commitment in this current Capital Investment Programme will bring Gatwick’s total investment plans, since change of ownership through to 2022, to £2.7 billion. The CIP has been developed to ensure that Gatwick’s ambitious growth plans keep pace with rising demand, while also providing the best experience for passengers.

Gatwick expansion

A DeHaviland dh at the official opening of Gatwick Airport

Beehive and train station

The multi-billion investment will allow plans for more growth and improved efficiency, whilst also maintaining its record levels of passenger satisfaction.

Norwegian Dreamliner

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Gatwick Airport

Gatwick has delivered record growth in passenger numbers and long haul services while also taking passenger satisfaction levels to an alltime high.

Significant projects identified to help the airport to continue to grow efficiently and sustainably include enhancing passenger service as well as supporting airlines to operate on time with an extension to Pier 6 as well as stand re-configurations to provide more aircraft parking.

An expansion of the North Terminal border facilities will allow staff to handle more long-haul arrivals, plus a new domestic arrivals facility, including a new baggage reclaim will be appearing in the South Terminal .

Holiday-makers and business travellers will be delighted to learn of the future expansions planned for the departures lounge in both terminals and the airport will be extending the roll-out of self-service bag drop, automating the boarding process at the gate to make embarkation more efficient and, most importantly(!) allow for more shopping time! An impressive new hangar will be built in partnership with Boeing to better service and maintain aircraft on-site and major plans are in place to help airport goers with the often-stressful business of arriving, parking and departing the airport.

Additional car parking capacity for both long and short-stay customers will be created and promises have been made for improved access to South Terminal for passengers and staff using local buses to travel to and from the airport. Aiming to improve the airport’s green credentials, projects are in place to support greater use of electric vehicles. This allows

Both terminals and the airport will be extending the roll-out of self-service bag drop, automating the boarding process at the gate to make embarkation more efficient and, most importantly(!) allow for more shopping time! Gatwick to continue to reduce the airport’s environmental impact and realise their ambition to be the UK’s most sustainable airport. Gatwick’s Construction Director Raymond Melee is proud of the progress made and what the future holds for the airport….

“Since coming into independent ownership,

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Gatwick has delivered record growth in passenger numbers and long haul services while also taking passenger satisfaction levels to an all-time high. As we plan to grow towards 50 million passengers per annum, we will focus on efficiency and service so that our passengers continue to receive the airport experience they expect, in the most sustainable manner possible. We will continue to develop the airport to meet the needs of our airlines and passengers with improvements to the way we operate on the airfield and the service we offer in our terminals. These projects will be delivered in a way that will help us realise our ambition to become the UK’s most sustainable airport.” Gatwick is also committed to maintaining its existing facilities and continuing its programme of improving resilience to ensure passengers consistently receive the best experience possible during their journey through the airport. All of these measures and projects will help take Gatwick from 45 million passengers a year towards 50 million, with growth expected to come from larger aircraft, more long-haul routes, and growth in the winter months.

Check in 1958

Cathay Pacific

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FOR BEARDS THAT WORK HARD & PLAY HARD shop online at

www.eastwinggroomingco.co.uk ABSOLUTE @Eastwingroomingco

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EastWing G R O O M I N G

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EastWing Grooming Co has quickly become a popular choice for bearded gentlemen who care about their appearance and their beard care products. Established September 2017, they have grown rapidly in popularity, gaining a reputation of being favored by professional footballers and athletes. Due to the high-quality health benefits for beards wrapped in a luxury style brand that they offer, it's easy to see why.

he team includes a qualified Herbalist and Aromatherapist with over 35 years' experience, designing and blending their oils & balms. They also incorporate Barbers & Bloggers to advise and shape the company image so that they stand out as a luxurious beard healthcare range designed with only professional input.

Giving us an insight is Company Directors James Wingate & Gary Easton. 1. How did you get started and why? As old friends and colleagues, we’d often thought about going into business together. Men’s grooming was an industry that interested both of us - as two guys unashamedly taking pride in their appearance and style - and we could see a real opportunity in the market with the increasing global growth in beard care products. At that point we were at very different stages with our own facial hair achievements; James sporting an impressive set of whiskers since his Movember 2016 stint and Gary only just starting out on his bearded journey! Our aim was to create a premium range of beard care products that accommodates all aspects of the professional man’s lifestyle, whether suited up for work, relaxing at home or sweating it out in the gym (or the Airsoft field, in James’ case!). It had to look good on the bathroom shelf too! Luckily James’ fiancée Shelley is a qualified herbalist so we were able to draw on her

knowledge and experience, as well as that of her close friend and colleague Socha, a qualified aromatherapist, to experiment with blends and aromas using pure, natural ingredients. After many hours together, our signature aromas were created - Fresh Peppermint, Mellow Orange and Rich Citrus. Socha was also able to help us fine-tune the blend to ensure it had maximum benefit, keeping beards nourished and moisturised to avoid dryness and itchiness so often suffered by bearded men without proper beard care. We often get guy’s partners getting in touch to say how much more kissable their guys are with such great smelling softer beards. It’s nice to think we’re helping bring people closer together with their awesome beards.

And so EastWing Grooming Co was born! We’ve poured our hearts and souls into creating the professional look and professional feel to men’s grooming products and love what EastWing has become. 2. Men's grooming products are ever more in demand and popular. What makes you stand out from the rest? We’re also very fortunate to be surrounded by an experienced team of industry experts, and it’s the team around us that gives us our edge. We are able draw to on the knowledge and expertise of those we know and trust.

With the help of Shelley and Socha we have been able to produce a range that is truly unique. In addition, we trialled our products with experienced barbers in Brighton,

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London and Sweden, giving our customers the confidence that our range has the seal of approval from the experts who know. With the support of our close friends Dave Smith and Katie Merrien (our industry and lifestyle advisers and bloggers), we feel this makes our team complete and the business the very best it can be. 3. Tell us how you came up with your brand name/image Both coming from professional, officebased backgrounds, we wanted to avoid the stereotypical Viking/lumberjack look and the woody/musky aromas so often associated with beard care products. We have created a range that not only provides great hold and outstanding moisturisation, but also incorporates the scents and style that modern men can enjoy. It also looks great on your bathroom shelf. We spent hours trying to come up with the perfect business name to fit our premium, professional style, then had a light-bulb moment of a brand name that was unique and personal to us - half of each of our surnames! It was simple, really.

4. What kind of feedback have you had about your products? We’ve been overwhelmed by the response we’ve had in the short time since the business launched in September 2017. It’s a huge compliment to see our products have been well-received by our customers - including several professional sportsmen. We’ve had feedback on our unique aromas,

We’re finding that customers like our premium, professional style, so it’s really encouraging to know that we’re doing it right.

with many of our customers having their own personal favourites from our range, as well as comments on how soft the products make their beards feel, and the lasting hold of our beard balms. We’re finding that customers like our premium, professional style, so it’s really encouraging to know that we’re doing it right. Social media has enabled us to have a global platform and engage with audiences around the world. In fact, we were the first British company to be reviewed by www. keepgrowingthatbeard.com - an independent beard product testing site in Canada - who complimented the quality of the aromas as well as the professional look and feel of the products. The love we’ve had on social media has been unreal and we very much encourage our followers to join us on our journey.

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EastWing

As local Brighton boys, we’ve been fortunate enough to meet and get to know Bruno and some of the other Brighton & Hove Albion football players (especially as Gary has been a supporter of the Club since he was 4 years old!). We can’t thank Bruno enough for his support, and to know he uses our products by choice is a real privilege.

5. You have also been featured in GQ. How did that come about? It had been a dream of ours to be featured in GQ ever since our first conversation about creating our own beard care range. To us, GQ represents everything we have been trying to achieve in terms of premium men’s style. We’d only been up and running for 10 days when GQ called and asked to feature our range in the ‘Dapper Gent’ Christmas gift guide in their December edition. It was a bit surreal, to be honest! The feedback from GQ was great. They told us they loved our image, and couldn’t believe that we’d only launched the business a week and a half earlier. It’s been an absolute pleasure to work with the team at GQ and we’re incredibly proud of the recognition from such a prestigious institution so early on in the business. We’d also like to thank the team at Absolute for their support and the opportunity to do this feature; thank you very much!

6. It looks like you’ve made some very good friends (i.e.: Bruno etc..) very quickly. What does the future hold? We’re truly humbled and grateful for the love and support we’ve had from our friends, family and contacts, locally and around the globe. As local Brighton boys, we’ve been fortunate enough to meet and get to know Bruno and some of the other Brighton & Hove Albion football players (especially as Gary has been a supporter of the Club since he was 4 years old!). We can’t thank Bruno enough for his support, and to know he uses our products by choice is a real privilege. He must have the most recognised beard in Brighton! Having the likes of Bruno support us has given us greater exposure, especially on social media, and has enabled us to be seen as a credible and serious player in the market. We feel like we’ve achieved so much in the short time since we launched in September. We’re very proud of what we have achieved

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and we’re really excited about what our future holds. Our short-term plan is to continue building the business on the back of the successes we’ve had so far. We’re also planning to expand the product range in the near future, so watch this space! In the longer term, we’d love to secure a wholesale deal with a high-end retailer. It’d be a dream come true to see our products in shops across the world.

7. It looks like you both are involved with the local community. What else do get involved with? We’ve been involved with various charity events this year. As we’ll as donating part of our profits we also helped raise £7500 for the local Dogs Trust rehoming centre. As well donating prizes and raising funds for the Rocking Horse appeal we also attended a charity dinner and auction with Bruno and friends from Brighton & Hove Albion for Chestnut Tree House. Anyone looking to support them should check out their charity football team

@ChestnutTreeFC which Bruno is an ambassador for.

We’ve also sponsored a team of students from Brighton University as part of their PR & Marketing degrees under the Bright Young Things project. We’ve allowed them to use EastWing for the next 6 months as part of their coursework and gives us further diverse insight with our social media and advertising campaigns.

8. The best thing about Brighton to you? They don’t call it London-by-the-Sea for nothing Brighton offers the very best in terms of fashion and style outside of London, and we wanted to reflect this in our brand. Brighton is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that we love to call home. It’s such a mix of style and tastes where you can often find a connection with a complete stranger over the most random of coincidences. 9. Favourite place for a working lunch? Café Melbec, Church Road in the heart of

Brighton & Hove is our go-to place. You can’t beat sitting in there with a good cup of coffee watching the bustling streets of Brighton go by. They do a mean selection of tapas too! In the evening we’re rather fond of Libation in Second Avenue, Hove. It’s a bustling Prosecco bar where we also had our Christmas party to thank the team for all their efforts in getting the company up and running. And of course, we invited Absolute Magazine as they’re like one of the family now. 10. Where can people find out more? You can find out more about the whole team and our full product range via our website www.eastwinggroomingco.co.uk. You can also join us on our EastWing journey on Facebook (@Eastwingroomingco), Instagram (@eastwing_grooming_co) and Twitter (@EastWingGroomCo).

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Gresham Blake Gresham Blake are a design led tailoring business with over 20 years’ experience, combining traditional skills with modern techniques. By listening closely to their client’s needs and requirements they are able to design and create something truly personal to them.

Gresham and his wife, Fal, launched the Gresham Blake brand in Brighton at the height of ‘cool Britannia’ in 1999. They started off as bespoke tailors – offering a personal tailoring service at a very competitive price. Soon after that they introduced limited edition ready to wear suits, shirts, ties and accessories for both men and women. Their style is very British with an eccentric twist – and they are not afraid to use use bright colour and bold designs. With this in mind, their off-the peg collection is always incredibly successful. The fact that they do not mass produce anything makes their ready to wear collections still very personal. Indeed, some of the designs become quite famous in their own right – remember the ‘Pink Shark Tie’ that David Dimbelby wore on Question Time? Look out on TV night after night – and you will always be able to spot a Gresham Blake design! Their most popular tailoring service, Gresham Blake Contemporary Bespoke suits can be made from a wide range of cloths. They work with and represent the top British fabric mills, making suits for all kinds of events and uses, from everyday work-wear to one-off occasions where run-of-the-mill robes just won't cut it. Over the years they have built up a great team of staff that support them and take equal pride in everything that is made and delivered at Gresham Blake. The Spring Summer 18 suit collection features a mix of linen and wool suits in bold over checks and more subtle city stripes, all in a soft summery colour palette.

Their style is very British with an eccentric twist – and they are not afraid to use use bright colour and bold designs.

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You can team these with one of the 20 different shirts in this collection. The designs this season range from kaleidoscope views of cactuses, to your greasy spoon fry up, along with the must have florals Gresham is known for. The goldfish shirt, which always sells out within two weeks of it arriving in the store, will be returning this season along with similar designs of dragonflies and panthers. These will be ones to watch! Printed linen shirts are also a key piece this season, featuring a granddad collar and a one button cuff for that relaxed summer look. The ties follow suit with elaborate designs of vibrant rose, summer ice-lollies and graphic ‘POW’ ties which really make an outfit. The Gresham favourite look from the new collection is the ‘Plane white shirt’, because the shirt design is of the vintage 1950s bowing planes. The ladies wear range this Spring Summer features some must-have silk shirts in a choice of 3 designs: elegant purple dragonflies, bold pink panthers and striking sunflowers. The sunflower design was created in collaboration with Laura Whitmore for the MTV charity, Staying Alive. Gresham produced 50 ties in this design, which are currently available in store and online, with £20 per tie sale going to the charity. Gresham made up a one-off silk shirt in the sunflower print for Laura to wear but has had so many people writing in wanting it, that it has made it into the collection. These silk shirts are the perfect day to night outfit and are Fal’s must-have item of the season. With the success of the sell out Pills jumpsuit last season, the team have decided to run the design again, building the collection with an stunning yellow butterfly design. This is the absolute perfect festival look!

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Over the years they have built up a great team of staff that support them and take equal pride in everything that is made and delivered at Gresham Blake.

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Gresham Blake Inspired by the upcoming Royal Wedding a statement ladies striped jacket with red accent will feature this season. Polo shirts and dresses will be making a return in 4 different all over prints, including a patch design inspired by Gresham’s love of collecting vintage badges. Tracksuits will also be arriving this season in a cool range loud of all over prints, including English breakfast and Pink Panthers. These are a real statement piece. Gresham describes his design process as erratic, taking influences from everywhere. Each season’s design process begins with an initial start point but the journey the collection takes before being finalised means the final garments will often only show hints of the initial influence. This fluid approach to designing means that Gresham is always open to suggestions and likes to produce a varied collection offering something for everyone. The AW18 collection that Gresham and his two designers Molly and Steph, are currently sampling, sought inspiration from a visit to a Wild Western Village. So keep an eye out for some howdys and some yeehas! So what else have the GB Team been up to? Well, this season Gresham Blake has created 9 short films, which will be slowly released over the next 6 months. These stand-alone films which feature Ray Winstone, Steve Coogan, Laurie Vincent (of the Slaves), Laura Whitmore, Norman Cook (Fat Boy Slim) and the Orbital.

Gresham started designing golf wear after being approached by the owners of ‘Swingers’, an indoor mini golf and bar establishment to make their uniforms.

This season Gresham Blake has created 9 short films, which will be slowly released over the next 6 months. The first installment, a teaser to the series was filmed in Brighton’s iconic Grand Hotel and can be seen online now at www.greshamblake.com Golf attire is something Gresham is particularly interested in putting into production at the moment, coining the collection “Golf War”. Gresham has been playing around with some fun prints incorporating things you’d find on a golf course onto printed polo pique. Pair the polos with the classic tartan trousers that Gresham Blake already offer creates the perfect golf look. Gresham started designing golf wear after being approached by the owners of ‘Swingers’, an indoor mini golf and bar establishment to make their uniforms. Corporate wear is a very much a growing business for Gresham Blake, boasting an ever-expanding list of clients including: The Grand Hotel, Pennyhill Park Hotel, Shoreditch House, The Ginger Pig and Riddle and Finns to name a few. There is also a super exciting announcement to follow this year, which Gresham is trying to keep a closed lid on. All he will say is that after years of being asked to make childrenswear, you will finally be seeing some clothes for little ones gracing the stores and online this summer. In collaboration with Nickelodeon and another amazing business who we are yet to be revealed, the range will feature iconic characters we all know and love from The Rug Rats, Sponge Bob Square pants, and Ren and Stimpy. www.greshamblake.com 01273 622531

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Gresham describes his design process as erratic, taking influences from everywhere.

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#BRIGHTONRACES

SPRUNG! 24 APRIL-18 october

PICK A DATE FOR YOUR DIARY

THE SEASON IS ABOUT TO COMMENCE... ABSOLUTE

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Jeremy Hoye Absolute talks to Jeremy I had always wanted to start my own jewellery brand and the plan was to open in Brighton. The city has a welcoming feel to it. I moved here 25 years go after running my own workshop in Wimbledon, where I had been making and designing for other jewelley shops. I had been working on my own style in individual pieces. I had a very simple plan which was to introduce my own jewellery as well as other new young designers. When we took the shop in Ship Street, which we chose for its look. Being Victorian it had very tall ceilings and large ornate window. I had seen many shops in London, and Los Angeles that had inspired me. When we opened, it was completely different to other jewellers in the town with their jewellery displayed in the windows on pads. It took as 2-3 years before it really took off. What really did it for me was new progressive designs and national advertising in Marie Claire and Vogue. The store had many different looks over the years. Ever evolving. We also started to sell my designs to other store as well as Virgin Airlines. I was also lucky enough to be approached and work with other brands such as Diesel, Porsche, Jaeger and BMG Records.

“A lot of my early work have become design classics and I get requests from customers who had seen certain pieces years ago and can now afford them”

After the success of the Brighton store we went on open a store in Soho, London. This really put my name on the map. The main part of my business has always been progression on the jewellery design for men and women. I like to jump from one style to another and through these we progressed to just selling all my own designs. Working in Platinum , Gold and Silver makes my jewellery very accessible. My business has changed a lot over the years, from being a big company employing 25 staff to bringing in an investor to grow the brand. That was the biggest mistake of my life and the reason why I decided to relaunch as House of Hoye. The idea was to go back to the ethos I started with which is about designing bespoke pieces for like minded customers. I now have a studio in the North Lanes open Monday to Friday, where you can book an appointment. This gives much more time for me to sit down with customers and sketch out designs to suit their needs. I also have more time to design and make new pieces which we show on social media daily. Through the House of Hoye website we now sell all over the world. This is updated regularly with new products. A lot of my early work have become design classics and I get requests from customers who had seen certain pieces years ago and can now afford them, so want to get them. For example, the customer might have the Carved Diamond solitaire and want the matching Diamond Eternity to go with it. I will then make it to fit and match and then refinish the original ring.

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Jeremy Hoye Another service I offer is the remaking and redesigning of old jewellery, whether it is an inherited ring or a piece of jewellery you have had for years and it just doesn’t suit you. This can take many forms from old rings to a broken chain - everything can be recycled. You can also use the old stones. The art is to design a piece of jewellery that suits the customer and does not look like it has been made from something else. One of the latest things I have been working on is Signet rings. I have a particular interest in signet ring history and what they can stand for. Originally they would have a family crest on them and a reverse engraving to wax seal letters. Over the years they have become a gift that you would give on a special birthday, such as an 18th, 21st or any milestone. These are for men and women in gold, silver or platinum. Very much a bonding special piece alongside wedding and engagement rings. I have created some new designs to complement original collections, such as Luna, Chequered and slash. I was honoured recently to design and make a platinum signet to hold a lock of hair from a deceased loved one. The top was sealed and only the wearer knew it was there. Wedding and engagement rings are still a large part of my work. Customers come to me because they like my style.

“A lot of customers over spend on the wedding and don’t leave much for the rings. You must remember you will have the rings for the rest of your life so they’re not to be scrimped on and take careful thought.”

If you are looking for something unique and personal to suit you or your future partner, that is what I do best. I try to design to suit the person’s lifestyle and personality. My wedding and engagement rings start from £500, but I can work to suit your budget. A lot of customers over spend on the wedding and don’t leave much for the rings. You must remember you will have the rings for the rest of your life so they’re not to be scrimped on and take careful thought. You also need to leave plenty of time to order and get them made. Some of my designs take 8-10 weeks. I have also been working on and building my mens only brand of Hoyedivision www. Hoyedivision.com. This has been a project of mine crossing over into my hobbies of car and motorbike culture. I have taken ideas from some of the main stay traditional men spices of jewellery such as the snake and skull rings as well as signet rings. My most resent designs have been coin rings. I use old British coins as well as American coins. I have also been using American Hobo coins in these rings. These are coins that have been re-engraved to personalise them, changing for example Jefferson’s face to a skull. Each one is unique. I feel that we made the right decision to move with the times and go from having a retail store, to going online and by appointment. The face of shopping has changed as well as the high street. I see the future of independents and crafts people on the web where we can service the needs of customers that want something original and not mass produced. It’s about going back to making jewellery that becomes something special in your life that can be handed down. You can email for an enquiry or book an appointment at info@houseofhoye.com House of Hoye of is open 10-6 Monday to Friday. 4 St Georges Place, Brighton, BN1 4GA www.HouseofHoye.com www.Hoyedivision.com

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“My most resent designs have been coin rings. I use old British coins as well as American coins. I have also been using American Hobo coins in these rings. These are coins that have been re-engraved to personalise them.”

in Performing Arts

www.brictt.co.uk 54

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NOW!

DEGREES AND DIPLOMAS

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B R I G H T O N

Racecourse Excitement, anticipation and glamour ripple through the crowds of stylish ladies in beautiful hats and dashing gentleman in smart suits. Beautifully groomed horses parade in the paddock, while spectators enjoy the glorious taste of crisp champagne, and feel exhilarated at the prospect of a flutter on their favourite horse. There’s a wonderful sound of thundering hooves echoing in the distance and Jockeys encased in their jewel-coloured silks, atop of their trusty steeds all jostle for position waiting expectantly for the next race to commence. Set beautifully against the breath-taking back-drop of rolling green countryside and captivating views of the blue coastline glimmering in the distance, there is simply nothing quite as decedent and enjoyable as a day at the Brighton races.

place to follow the races. When dining at the Silks Restaurant you will be treated to a sumptuous three course meal, complementary race card, enclosure badge and a personal bar so there’s no queueing for drinks. This is quite simply the most stylish way to enjoy a day at the races.

stablished in 1783, the unique Brighton Racecourse track is situated on Whitehawk Hill, on the edge of the picturesque South Downs, in 20 acres of stunning landscape with glorious views of Brighton and Hove. This iconic venue boasts fantastic food and drink on offer at each race, free parking and a complimentary bus shuttle service to and from Brighton train station on race days.

A delightful new event to Brighton Racecourse for 2018 is the Great British Afternoon Tea package. A special afternoon spent sipping prosecco and tucking into dainty sandwiches and mouth-watering desserts with your friends, what could be better?

“It is important to us that each person visiting the Racecourse receives premium service, enjoys great food and leaves with great memories,” said Paul Ellison, Executive Director. “We are committed to making every visitor feel welcome and looked after. We’ll even help you place a bet if you’ve never done it before – it’s really easy and adds an extra shot of excitement to the day.” There are 21 fixtures lined up for 2018 with a range of affordable entry tickets for each race, from entry to the stands, access to the Premier Enclosure or dining in the restaurant. The first Brighton race this season is off to a flying start on Tuesday 24th April. Tickets are available now for the Season Opening Race Evening with races starting at 4.30pm and finishing at 7.50pm. Venue etiquette on race days at Brighton Racecourse is a relaxed affair, with a smart casual dress code. However,, it’s always a wonderful excuse to dress up and make

an occasion out of it. Make sure to avoid ripped jeans, trainers, flip flops, casual shorts and sports shirts all of which are not permitted. While at the races treat yourself to lunch in the Silks Restaurant, with a wonderful seasonal menu, amazing service and unprecedented views from the bar over the parade ring and surrounding scenic countryside. You will also have access to the Silks Terrace which is the perfect

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Alternatively, try the Behind The Scenes Tour to learn what is involved in the run up to race days, with access for the day to view the stables, weigh room, and the other areas normally only accessed by horse trainers, owners and riders. The £40 ticket includes a glass of bubbles and tips for race day, so you can pick a winner.

This wonderfully iconic venue offers so much more than just a racecourse. Whether you visit to watch the racehorses in action, for a corporate event, festival or a private celebration, Brighton Racecourse has tickets, events, and hire options to suit everyone and all budgets. With six track side boxes for hire, all with great views, private bars, and a balcony ideal

This wonderfully iconic venue offers so much more than just a racecourse. Brighton Racecourse has tickets, events, and hire options to suit everyone and all budgets. for smaller groups of up to 15 guests, it’s the perfect venue for any party.

Have you decided to tie the knot this summer? Then why not host your wedding reception at the racecourse in one of the executive suites or boxes, with inspiring dining options to suit all tastes. Brighton Racecourse has a team of event planners onsite ready to help you arrange your big day, from décor, food, drink, entertainment and table plans. Visit the Brighton Racecourse website: www.brighton-racecourse.co.uk and view their event brochure for more details on all their venue hire and catering options, and get 25% of all room hire at Brighton Racecourse before April 1st, when quoting: BrightonSouthEast. “We have a number of versatile suites and boxes to choose from along with picnic lawns and ample outside space, all of which provide stunning views across the Sussex countryside and English Coastline - a wonderful backdrop

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to use for any event” said Lisa Duncan, Commercial Manager “The energy and atmosphere that comes from the venues sporting roots, injects life into any event and leaves guests with an enjoyable and memorable experience long after they leave.” This year when planning a sophisticated race day with friends, booking a suite for an elaborate glamourous celebration or organising a smart corporate event that your team will always remember, choose Brighton Racecourse, one of the most iconic and inspiring venues in Brighton and Sussex. Brighton Racecourse Freshfield Road, Brighton, BN2 9XZ 01273 603 580 www.brighton-racecourse.co.uk Charlie McBrien

OLIVER CUNNINGHAM CUCKFIELD

“His colouring is flawless” Leona Lewis

“My favourite hairdressers, I can’t recommend then highly enough’” Lottie Moss

MEET THE TEAM

Oliver Cunningham

Richard Humphreys

Morgan Rhodes

Jon Moore

Louise Brown

Poppy Payne

FIZZ F& FOOD East Beach Café

The Bali Brasserie

Limetree Kitchen

1| Littlehampton: Sea Road, BN17 5GB East Beach Cafe was completed in June 2007 and has since won more than twenty national and international awards for design, architecture, steelwork, craftsmanship and engineering. Not dissimilar to the hull of a ship, it is a self-supporting structure and an extremely complicated piece of engineering. The whole process from commissioning the architect, Thomas Heatherwick, to completion took 18 months. Thomas heads one of the world’s leading design practices and was described recently by The Times as “the most creative mind in Britain”, the East Beach Cafe was his first UK building. The emphasis is on fresh fish and locally sourced produce, cooked in a style that lets the quality shine through. The Ritz trained kitchen team produce a standard of food that is fit for such an amazing setting.

5| The Bali Brasserie is proud to present vegan, vegetarian and dairy free dining as well as gluten free. The restaurant inside, ‘Rijsttafe’, (the rice table) is Indonesian themed food on a set menu, but they are able to adapt a meal to almost any dietary requirements. Meaning there is no reason to not go and enjoy yourself. There is something for everyone at The Bali Brasserie.

2| Douglas McMaster, owner and head chef has spent many years working in some of the UK’s and Europe’s top restaurants. You can expect to see a fair sized menu created with seasonal foraged ingredients that come together to give you a unique dinning experience. Some of the dishes so far have been Sea Buckthorn and Elderberry fool for dessert and potato steak, elephant garlic, alliums and herbs.

Memories of India

10| Lewes: 14 Station Road, BN7 2DA The Limetree Kitchen isn’t all about food, they have a unique “Gin Kitchen” which makes them stand out from the crowd. You can choose from their fantastic range of gins on offer and let them mix up a perfect blend of gin & tonic. If you fancy staying the night in Lewes, you can book a night in their elegant accommodation – “The Room”. If you are visiting Lewes for site seeing, or a special occasion getaway, The Room would be the perfect place to stay for a luxurious night after a delicious meal in the Limetree Kitchen restaurant. The menu consists of tapas style small plates which give diners the opportunity to try more on the menu. This is an informal way of eating out and you can either share a few dishes with friends or enjoy them on your own. Their simple menu is split into sections which include Vegetarian, Fish, Meat, Nibbles and Desserts.

Silo

Curry Leaf Cafe

3| The original Curry Leaf Cafe is located in the heart of Brighton's bustling Lanes, just a couple of minutes' walk from the beach. This colourful, laid-back 75-seat dining space – decked out with exposed brick walls, wooden tables and vintage Indian design touches – operates as a cafe-cum-lunch spot during the day, offering a range of coffees, teas, snacks and traditional South Indian street food, as well as more substantial meals such as thali platters, dosas and Masala-battered fish 'n chips. In the evenings diners can experience the cafe’s small but diverse dinner menu of tandoor-grilled meats, street food dishes and expertly spiced curries, accompanied by Brighton's best range of craft beers and spiced cocktails.

Eatalio

4| Eatalio is a recently new addition to Brighton’s food scene, and is located on Queens Road, abouta 5 min walk from the station near Brighton’s clock tower. Inspired by the simple, yet healthy food served from the street carts in Italy, Eatalio provides affordable, grab and go food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. A great venue to pop into and dogs are most welcome. No servicesfor dogs, they just allow them in the venue.

Riddle & Finns

6| Another favourite in the restaurant scene, Riddle & Finns offer wonderful seafood platter as well as shellfish too, they do also cater for gluten free. Reservations are not Necessary unexpectedly, however it is recommended on the weekends as it can be very busy. Riddle & Finns also own a second venue on the seafront, both perfect for a special occasion. 7| Offering traditional Indian food in a variety of flavours from all over the continent. If you’re gluten intolerant then you will be pleased to know that gluten is very rare in all Indian food due to the lack of wheat flour. On Tuesdays, you can enjoy a five-course buffet menu for £12.95

Wolfies of Hove

8| Family run business that pride themselves in serving the finest, sustainable fish alongside locally sourced potatoes. Having served the Brighton & Hove area for over 25 years we know that quality is of the utmost importance, with carefully selected suppliers so that they can provide you good quality, fresh ingredients. Boosting The best fish in Brighton & Hove. The fish is the freshest sustainable fish available in Brighton & Hove, and our handmade pies using all local ingredients. They challenge anyone to serve up tastier, fresher & more wholesome fish.

The Urchin Pub in Hove

11| One of Brighton’s newest offerings, the Urchin craft beer and shellfish pub is a wholly unique concept. Entirely dedicated to shellfish, matched with a range of over 100 craft beers The Urchin is something Brighton and Hove has never seen before. Seats 30 covers in the restaurant, the menu predominantly features prawns, lobster, crab and scallops.

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Terre a terre

9| Terre a Terre is an iconic, award winning restaurant where being vegetarian is about more than just not eating meat. You can expect a variety of flavours and foods to try when you arrive. Much more interesting than the standard stuffed mushroom.

Pelham House

12| Lewes: St Andrews Lane, BN7 1UW Pelham House Lewes is a beautiful 16th century town house hotel in the heart of Lewes and one of East Sussex’s hidden gems, just 10 minutes from Brighton. Right off the High Street you will find the historic building, set in an extensive secret garden, Pelham House is perfect for dining alfresco or an afternoon tea. The house & garden has been exquisitely restored to create a stylish venue, combining elegance and history. The head chef has developed a varied set of menus for their gallery, panelled room, garden room and dining outside on the terrace. The restaurant at Pelham House focuses on simple and delicious food, using good quality seasonal and locally sourced produce from Lewes and the county of Sussex. They regularly offer private dining to guests for special occasions and events.

Senor Buddha

13| Senor Buddha is a contemporary restaurant located in the up and coming area of London Road in the quirky coastal town of Brighton. Since its opening in 2015 it quickly became a popular destination for food-loving locals as well as tourists. The restaurant has won several awards and was featured in the dining out section of the Financial Times.

Chambers Bistro 14| Shoreham-by-Sea: Old Town Hall, High Street, BN43 5DD Chambers Bistro Shoreham is an independent family-run British bistro, serving all the popular classics with an emphasis on locally sourced produce in an elegant and centrally positioned venue. Located just 15 minutes West of Brighton & Hove along the seafront, or 5 minutes off the A27, this well-known restaurant boasts the splendour of a Grade II listed neo classical building with super stylish interiors. Features include stripped wooden floors and cream leather chairs, set among two softly lit dining areas. Think boutique and chic, romantic and intimate. Chambers Bistro is as sophisticated with its appearance as the food they serve.

Sylvan Oak

15| Findon: BN14 0TE The Sussex restaurant is situated 10 minutes north of the town of Worthing in the sleepy village of Findon. The Sylvan Oak prides itself on an evolving food culture, where their head chef and proprietor Sinan Kalan presents flavoured food with amazing visual presentation. The Sylvan Oak could be perfect for that intimate occasion on the sun terrace, or can be privately hire for a party or celebration. Open most days apart from Mondays, and open for lunch and dinners. The Cuisine described by the owner as “British Fusion” which I suppose is close to dine dining and modern European. Essentially the food is professionally prepared and influences stem far and wide giving you quite a varied menu.

The Fountain Inn, Ashurst

16| Beautiful olde worlde inn in the sleepy village of Ashurst. A free house and ‘Cask Marque’ accredited, the Fountain has plenty of local ales on offer as well as the more recognised international beers and lagers. Complete with wonky floorboards, inglenook fireplaces and the heart warming smell of homemade cooking wafting in from the kitchen, you will not want to go home.

Block.

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17| Block. is a bar with a great wine list, bringing you lots of new young wineries / vineyards, the people who, in wine that are pushing the envelope a bit. The wine is supported with great craft on draft and Brighton's first and currently only charcoal and wood burning oven, working with only the best produce from local farms, fisherman and suppliers they offer you a local meat and fish menu with a basque influence coming through, the garden at block has also recently been improved even after being voted Brighton's best garden for the last two years. So if you want gourmet restaurant quality food, but enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of a bar. BLOCK is the place for you.

BARS & B BEATS The Crown and Anchor

Legends

Fortune of War

1|Shoreham-by-Sea: 33 High Street, West Sussex BN43 5DD Named after the town’s past with its port famed for smuggling, and centrally located on Shoreham’s high street, the Crown and Anchor is a must visit and very popular with locals and visitors alike. From the high street it looks like a regular run of the mill pub, but it hides a gorgeous restaurant with big glass windows and a patio area with outside seating which backs onto the river Adur. Perfect for alfresco dining and drinking on warm evenings, with spectacular views of the South Downs and the river itself.

5| Legends is a gay bar and hotel located on Marine Parade just a minute away from Palace Pier. It has a fantastic selection of rooms with stunning sea views. The venue itself is very spacious and has a large bar upstairs with outside terrace and huge dance floor downstairs. There is always plenty going on with drag acts during the week and great music played by a diverse r ange of DJs at the weekends.

9| This lovely pub has been open since 1882, making it the oldest pub on the seafront. It is a good meeting place if you are going clubbing on the seafront. There are DJs playing at the weekends and it always has a friendly atmosphere and is never too crowded. The décor has a maritime theme and the pub provides beautiful views over the seafront. It has an outside seating area and a buzzy atmosphere during the summer months.

6| If you are looking for a good, old fashioned, comfy pub with a great atmosphere then this is the place for you. The Lion and Lobster is very popular with the locals and has become a bit of a Brighton institution. It is a good venue to start your night before going out on the town. The pub is spread over three floors with a main bar downstairs complete with cosy real fires in winter. The second floor has a small bar within a beautiful dining room and the third floor is the outside smoker’s area complete with mini bar and outside heaters. The Sunday roasts are very popular but make sure you get there early.

10| Hastings: 71 George Street, Old Town, East Sussex TN34 3EE Owned by the same people as the famous Dragon Bar in Shoreditch and centrally located in the Old Town in Hastings, just a stone’s throw away from the beach. This is a fantastic bar and eatery where during the day you can sample a diverse and delicious sounding menu made up of fresh local produce, and relax and watch the hustle and bustle of the old town. Beautifully decorated with local artwork with a lively and welcoming ambience. A vast selection of drinks with premium spirits, and live DJ’s at the weekend. Attracts an eclectic crowd of varying ages.

Idlewild

2| Haywards Heath: 65 The Broadway, West Sussex, West Sussex, RH16 3AS Centrally located in Haywards heath, this little Gem of a bar boasts cool funky décor, friendly expert mixologists with a great selection of cocktails and a wonderfully diverse and well thought food menu which caters for everyone. Pictures of sexy celebs adorn the walls of this cool atmospheric venue, which also boasts a great outdoor seated terrace area. Playing an excellent selection of music all day everyday with regular and guest DJ’s Friday and Saturday nights. A lot of thought has gone into this place and it shows.

32 Duke Street

3| Those with a party penchant wont be hard pushed to get your late night fix at this naughty, Brighton number. While a cracking destination for eating out in the day, get stuck into the confines of the quirky Brighton bar as the lights go down and the sound-system goes up for a fun loving, seaside crowd.

My Hotel

4| If you’re after a Sex and the City venue then look no further. My Hotel is a beautifully crafted bar with curved walls, gilding pewter surfaces and low lighting, reflecting a warm and spacious cocoon. As part of the My Hotel franchise, the bar is open to non-guests to enjoy some beautifully made cocktails, a sophisticated atmosphere and an altogether glamorous night out. The bar staff are knowledgeable and helpful. This is a good place for special occasions. Everyone gets super dressed up so if you are looking to get your glad rags on and feel special this could be the place for you.

To celebrate the inaugural edition of Absolute Sussex, we decided to go on a tour of some of the best bars in the county! Here’s what we found..

Lion & Lobster

The Dead Parrot

7| Horsham: 21 Piries Place, RH12 1EH, West Sussex A cocktail bar with a difference! Opened by a group of bartenders in 2014 who are obviously passionate about their craft. The Dead Parrot boasts a fantastic menu of unique and eccentric cocktail as well as some classics, well as a fine selection of beers and delicious wines. Split over two floors with cool and quirky décor featuring some interesting taxidermy and a giant chessboard on the ceiling! An unashamedly hipster joint serving cocktails in all manner of vessels from beer cans with sombrero hats, to metal tankards and even the odd dainty glass. Lots of fun!

Hotel Du Vin

8| A lovely start to your evening in a classy venue. The bar is part of the Hotel Du Vin chain and is open to non-guests to come in and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere. It is a little on the pricey side but if it is sophistication you are after then look no further. The bar has an extensive list of wines and a wide selection of whiskies, rums and countless spirits. As well as relaxing in the main bar you can also enjoy a game of billiards located on the balcony above.

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The Dragon Bar

The Tempest Inn

11| With scenic views from the beer garden at this washed up bar along the beach front, enjoy the fresh sea air and the beautiful rolling waves from your dainty picnic bench. If you can drag yourself away from this alfresco seating, you’ll be just as impressed by the coastal coves set into the walls. Enjoy a frothy pint and a tempting tipple in your very own seafront cave at this quirky little cavern.

MEAT liquor

12| Hailing from the success of their London counterpart, Brighton’s MEATLiquour is a wonderment of carnivore feasts and locally inspired artwork. Based around the carnival days of Brighton gone by, doused in neons and brimming with urban regalia, MEATLiquour is a unique restaurant bar in Brighton where the burgers come hearty and the cocktails come laced in awesome.

La Havana 13| Chichester: 3 Little London, PO19 1PH A deep subterranean live music venue which is famed for its Jazz nights, though Whatever your particular taste in music, you will always find there to be a night to suit you here at La Havana. A fun and lively venue which is well thought out in design, you can easily find a spot to sit and chat away from the music whilst still enjoying it, or be right in the action. All in a vaulted basement for real atmosphere. Reasonably priced drinks to boot with beer at £3.00 a bottle.

The Loft Lounge and Bar

14| Eastbourne: 14 Station Street, East Sussex, BN21 4RG An elegant chic and sophisticated late night lounge and bar, spread over two floors, and carefully designed to create a unique and sumptuous atmosphere. The downstairs bar boasts an impressive circular bar backed onto a dazzling glass wall, and a skylight which floods the venue with natural light. Upstairs is a bit cosier and intimate, with various sized booths and a premium drinks bar. A fine selection of food and drinks on offer here, with delicious sounding cocktails and expert mixologists more than happy to make off-menu drinks. With live music every Friday and drinks offers throughout the week it’s easy to see why this is one of Eastbourne’s top rated nightspots.

Gin Tub

15| The exciting tastes of international gins in a superb interior of our newly opened Gin Tub Cocktail bar. Finally somewhere to drink after all the great Hove restaurants. With well over 80 gins – bespoke cocktails – craft beers and ales. We have also created flight boards to try new spirits. Bespoke Cocktails, craft beers, IPA’s and all the normal beers and spirits too. Under The Tub Welcome to the Rum Cage, where the spirits and specifically the rum never dry out. With a bar selection of some of the best rums, oh and of course some of our favourite gins.

Cocktail Shack 7

16| A unique and innovative bar hidden within the tall walls of Regency Square. They pride themselves on drinks as creative and bespoke as the Artist Residence itself, offering playful service and a passion for the product. We would urge everyone to check them out at The Shack for a taste of something new.

The Rocking Horse 8

17| Worthing: 3 The Broadway, Brighton Road, BN11 3EG Quirky pub serving cocktails and a limited beer and wine selection. Comfortable place for a chat with a rocking horse theme to the décor and a relaxed vibe. The best place in Worthing where you can go and experience trained mixologists who understand cocktails and flavours make your drinks! Reasonable prices for the quality of drinks too! A clean, light and airy venue with friendly staff to boot. They also offer a cocktail masterclass (daily) where for just £19.50 you can learn to make (and drink) three classic cocktails with a glass of prosecco included.

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Somewhere down a country lane in the middle of nowhere near Arundel

COFFEE

CAKE

Edgcumbes

COFFEE ROASTERS & TEA BLENDERS

Obsessed with offering only the world’s best coffees and finest teas, backed by exceptional customer service. Welcome to Edgcumbes. Absolute talked to Alice Rendle...

"We source coffee from all over the world in all coffee growing countries. In fact, I'm writing this on my phone on a local bus which is taking me to some of the top coffee growers in the Terrazu area of Costa Rica!" Q. Could you share a little about your coffee business and history. Edgcumbes has been in business for over 35 years. We started as a trade wholesaler and have recently opened our roastery with a small cafe on site to expand the awareness of speciality coffee, and hand blended teas to the local general public. We see a huge interest in this area, and our mission is to share our knowledge where possible.

Q. Can you enlighten us about the roastery and the location? We are situated just outside Arundel on a small country lane really in the middle of nowhere! It has been interesting to see how people will find a place if they like what you are offering! Our roastery has an open window into the warehouse so that the public can see us roasting coffee and blending tea. This means that they can learn more about the processes and how we do it! I passionately believe that provenance is

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something that has grasped the imagination of the public and the more they learn, the more they realise that buying local freshly roasted coffee is a far better way to drink their favourite brew.

Q. Ok, to the coffee. What kind of beans do you source? Do you vary this across the year? Any particular favourites? We source coffee from all over the world from all coffee growing countries. In fact, I'm writing this on my phone on a local bus which is taking me to some of the top coffee growers in the Terrazu area of Costa Rica! Coffee is grown throughout the world near the equator, so there are so many different types of speciality coffee to be enjoyed. They are all speciality grade - that means the coffee has been hand-picked and is of a premium quality. This results in the taste of the coffee you drink being so much better, and with the application an expert roaster the beans ultimately have a chance to show their true quality. We have been roasting for several decades, so this has allowed us to develop our expertise and deep understanding of the coffees that we offer! We roast either single origin (meaning that they come from a single estate or area in a country) or our very own particular blends many of which have been awarded ‘Great Taste Awards, indicating that they are of sufficient quality for the public to be able to trust them.

Everyone has their own personal favourite, but I love Kenyan coffees for their bright and lively flavours. They are grown in the Highlands where the cool evenings and warm days allow the bean to grow slowly and develop their classic taste profile. To me, they are a bit like drinking the best cabernet sauvignon in wine terms!

Q. Do you sell coffee making kit for home brewers? We do. We also offer a range of short courses to help bring out the inner-coffee lover in you! All sorts of people come to the roastery, and that is another of our fundamental beliefs - that we are open to everyone! We believe that everyone deserves the best freshly roasted coffee and loose leaf teas. And the best way to enjoy the coffee is to have an understanding of how to brew it at home. We like to share our knowledge and spend time with any customer who comes in wanting to find out more. Our café /shop is open seven days a week, and there is always someone on hand to chat. Q. We always love to ask - what's your secret to the balance of a perfect flat white? Well, there's an irony here. It should be simple enough to make a delicious flat white, but so often it isn't. Why is this? There are three essential elements to making great

coffee - the right equipment, a good barista and FRESHLY roasted coffee. This third element is often overlooked. The best barista is not going to be able to make a great drink out of stale beans. I always say that we wouldn't eat stale bread so why drink stale coffee? Q. Tell me a little about your various loose tea selection The business originally started as a specialist tea company, so our knowledge and range of loose leaf teas are extensive you can come to the café and drink up to 40 different types of loose leaf tea. These are served in a range of innovative and practical teaware that can be purchased to take home too. We hand blend our teas, so you are guaranteed to have a fresh supply! Q. Are there any homemade cakes on offer? Of course. We work with a lovely local lady called Tamsin who hand bakes all our cakes. They are all unique to us including our famous Mocha Stout cake! Local bakers Coburn and Baker supply us with a range of sourdough bread, croissants and vegan sausage rolls.

Q. It's unique for customers to view the roastery at work, do you offer training to budding baristas?

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Absolutely. We work with many different cafes and restaurants to help develop their barista skills as well as with the general public. We enjoy sharing our knowledge and expertise. Furthermore, we have recently built a specialist course room where we hold a range of other foodie related workshops - chocolate making, baking and cheese courses! Check out our website for details.

Q. Do you have any plans you would like to share with us? Well, we have recently expanded into a more extensive café which gives people the chance to sit down and enjoy our coffee, cakes and savoury range. So for the time being, we are going to consolidate this! However, there are plans for other areas in which to grow such as starting a bakery and maybe offering evenings with music etc..!

Edgcumbes Coffee Roasters & Tea Merchants The Old Barn, Ford Ln, Ford, Arundel BN18 0DF

www.edgcumbes.co.uk

Ethical, 12 hour brined, buttermilked, home spiced fried chicken and gourmet sides Join us for an alternative Christmas including Christmas dinner in a bun and a whole fried bird! Parties of all sizes catered for. The Bok Shop Restaurant, 3-4 East Street BN1 1HP

@thebokshop

ABSOLUTE01273 777 312

bookings@thebokshop.com

/thebokshop 69

the

grill

room

Review

Third

AVENUE Anyone who has lived or worked in Hove for the last few years will have walked past the old Havana Spoons building at the end of Third Avenue and wonder why the once beautiful, but now sad shell of a building has been empty for so long. I myself used to enjoy a cocktail or two there when it was open and have since wondered if anyone was going to realise the potential the place had to offer.

he guys behind 23 Duke Street have done just that, and then some! I was excited to see renovations begin early in December and in what seems like a blink of an eye, they have transformed the site from a derelict husk, to a gorgeous stylish and sleek multi space venue which oozes class and sophistication, and once visited, will certainly have you going back for more. We were lucky enough to be invited to the grand opening night way back in December along with Hove’s movers and shakers, where we were given a tour. Entering through the main entrance to the bar area, I was immediately impressed by the thought and effort that had gone into the design and layout of the place. Consisting of three areas, the bar (Bar 72), the restaurant (the Grill room), and a separate basement lounge bar for late night dancing and shenanigans and private hire. When entering Bar 72 you are immediately greeted by a grandiose bar area displaying a huge selection of wines, beers, and spirits. The mixologists behind the bar expertly crafting cocktails and chatting to the clientele. The extensive drinks menu lists an impressive range of wines, beers, Gin’s, Rum’s, Tequila, and spirits, each one simply described to aid you in your decision and tempt you in to trying something new. I was sorely tempted to try one of the “uniquely 72” premium whiskeys from the whiskey flight menu, but as it was relatively early in the evening and there was a bit of a party vibe going on, I opted to try a Brockmans Gin (intensely smooth, soft sweeter flavours) and tonic. Which perfectly described and went down a treat.

The bar leads on to a sizeable area where you can sit and chat, with enough space to have a dance, which a fair few were by this point. The DJ was excellent, playing to the crowd with delectable funky house grooves. The area surrounded by fabulous art which had obviously been especially selected to go with the tone of the décor. Faces of modern day pop icons such as Madonna, Rhianna, and Pink, Painted as busts on plinths onto large canvasses in Neutral tones of grey and white and displayed in a contemporary fashion (unframed), along with other work from the same artist featuring animal skulls, crows, and portraits, all using the same colour palette. The seductive lighting and plush leather seating added to the atmosphere, and the stylish, well dressed crowd with people of all ages having a good time was contagious. Bar 72 also has a huge outdoor west-facing wooden terrace with a separated area for smokers. Atmospherically lit of an evening with comfortable tables and chairs, I can imagine it being well used in the spring and summer months. A trip downstairs leads to the immaculate bathrooms and basement club, which was opulently decorated with an exclusive, yet welcoming feel to the area. The champagne was flowing, the music was pumping, and the chefs had the chance to give us a taster of their culinary skills with samples from the exceptionally well thought-out and innovative sushi, bites, and platters menu that the bar area boasts, The sushi was some of the best I have tasted (and I have lived in Japan). Particular highlights where the Tuna and Avocado Uramaki with Mango and Chilli

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Salsa which proved extremely popular, and the exceptional Chicken Karaage with Yozo Mayo, dried chilli and fried garlic, which I couldn’t recommend more. The guys went all out to impress, and they did just that leaving us gagging for more… … So we came back. A couple of weeks later when the venue had fully opened. This time to check out the Grill Room, which we only glanced around on our initial visit as we were having too much fun in the bar. Warmly greeted by the charming Assistant Manager Raphael (who I vaguely remembered meeting on the opening night though I might have over indulged on the Champagne by that point), who took our coats and showed us to our seats. As we took in our surroundings we were struck by how cosy and inviting the place was. Glass and steel lighting hanging from the ceiling paired with classic floor lamps gave out a warm glow, as well as spotlights proudly displaying the contemporary and interesting artwork or huge pristine mirrors above each table. With Dark wooden floors with soft grey panelled wood walls and gigantic skylights gave the room a homely feel and the transitional mixture of modern and traditional décor with plush red velvet cushioned seating meant we felt instantly comfortable and at home. No expense has been spared with the tableware, with beautiful tall wine-glasses and immaculate silverware adorning each solid oak table. We couldn’t help but notice how busy the place was for mid-January. It was positively buzzing. Word had obviously gotten around.

When entering Bar 72 you are immediately greeted by a grandiose bar area displaying a huge selection of wines, beers, and spirits. The mixologists behind the bar expertly crafting cocktails.

Once we had gotten comfortable Raphael brought us the wine list, and was happy to make recommendations. This was not necessary however, as just like the drinks list in Bar 72, the extensive menu simply describes each wine with no more than three words. Making it easy to make a choice. My partner adores Sauvignon Blanc so we plumped for a Chilean “La Garuma”, Vina Leyda which was described simply as “intense, mineral, and herbal”. It was exactly as described and did not disappoint. The evening menu consists of a lovely selection of delicious sounding starters. Meat, indulgent seafood and Sashimi platters. The mains consist of fish and vegetarian options, and as you would expect from a restaurant called “the grill room” your attention is drawn to the steak options, with a full range of cuts, including Chateaubriand, and Wagyu, supplied by the internationally renowned Aubrey Allen, which serves the very best restaurants in the country as well as being the queens choice of butcher. Cooked in a Josper charcoal Grill which is known to be the best grill in the world for cooking steaks, with the high temperature and the charcoal creating a fantastic taste and structure to the meat. The menu also displays a broad choice of sides, sauces, and add-ons (for the steaks such as lobster and prawns). We called on Raphael to help, as we were stuck at even ordering the starter, and he suggested the Pickled Dorset Crab for my dining companion who had already proclaimed to be a seafood lover. He also suggest we try some Tuna Sashimi which he had given to some friends of his the previous night and had gone down a storm. I however was in the mood for Steak Tartare, so we ordered all three to share between us. Raphael was right about the Sashimi, it tasted like it had been caught that day, and was served with crisp garlic shavings and a creamy wasabi mouse which brought out the freshness and full flavour of the fish. An original take on a dish I often take for granted in the Japanese restaurants. The Steak Tartare was incredible. Served on a long thin clay plate, with beef fat Crostini,

shaved horseradish and droplets of egg-yolk jam scattered amongst the tender meat. The saltiness of the Crostini and the twang of the horseradish really enhanced the flavour of steak. A real treat. Surprisingly though my personal favourite of the three was the crab which my companion had selected. The crab delicately wrapped in pickled cucumber served on a bed of rice, scattered with juicy sun-dried tomatoes, crunchy squid ink bread and avocado. Each mouthful was a delight, with juicy zingy flavour bursting out with each bite, and the squid ink bread giving a satisfying crunch. A refreshing dish with a lovely twang to invigorate the taste buds ready for the main. As we sat and reflected on the first course I glanced around the room to take in the surroundings. Around us we could see couples enjoying romantic dates, birthday celebrations, family gatherings, and friends laughing and chatting. The background beats added to the chilled atmosphere, and I remember thinking that this place is something special. Not only is it unlike any other place I have been to in Brighton and Hove, it is cool! Although sorely tempted by the steaks, for main I decided to go for the lamb cutlets, as I had only recently enjoyed a visit to a local steakhouse and wanted to try something different. My partner predictably plumped for the Seabass, and we shared a side of confit garlic butter creamed potato. The tender medallions of lamb were delightful, the delicate sweetness of the toasted sesame highlighted the richness of the meat, and the subtle bite provided by the Wasabi yoghurt further set the dish off. Served on a bed of tender stem broccoli and mashed Aubergine. The dish was both filling and satisfying. The seabass was served whole. The gentle garlicy white wine sauce meant that the fantastic natural flavour of this fish was able to do the talking. The flesh light and flaky as you would expect and topped with fresh clams, mussels, tiger prawns lemon and cherry tomatoes. A seafood lover’s dream. As well as being delicious, a nice touch with

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the side of creamed potatoes was that it was served in a cute cast-iron pot to keep it warm. The desert menu consists of six choices, and at first glance looks quite simplistic. However when you read the descriptions you can tell allot of thought has gone into them, we usually share a desert after a feast such as what we had just experienced, though this time we couldn’t help but to pig out and choose one each. We opted for 3 chocolate cakes, which included chocolate nemesis, chocolate truffle, chocolate and hazelnut clotted cream ice cream and honeycomb. To contrast this we also ordered the Mango and lemongrass mousse, which encompassed coconut ice cream, mango puree, BBQ mango, toasted marshmallow and shaved coconut. Both deserts appeared similar in presentation, with the various elements scattered on the plate, and both were exciting and fun to eat! With each mouthful and adventure, taking elements from each ingredient and piling them on the spoon before devouring them. Being a lover of all things chocolate my companion couldn’t stop smiling as she wolfed it down. Me, I was in my element dipping the toasted marshmallows in the mousse and ice cream. Heaven! We finished the night by heading back to Bar 72 next door to sample a cheeky cocktail or two, after that my mind is a bit of a blur but I know we ended up dancing till the early hours. Third Avenue has everything you could possible wish for in night out. You can tell a lot of love, passion and consideration has gone into this new venture, and I wish the owners the best of luck. I truly believe they have nailed it, because what they have achieved is seriously impressive. With two fantastic visits under our belt, we are thoroughly looking forward to heading back for more. Tony Shattell ThirdAve.co.uk 70-72 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2FP

Third Avenue has everything you could possible wish for in night out. You can tell a lot of love, passion and consideration has gone into this new venture.

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THE STONEHAM

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Kooks L E T

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The greatest delights in life are those that are unexpected and being asked to review Kooks was one of them; a delightful find - a true serendipity!

ooks restaurant opened its doors in the heart of Brighton's 'kooky' laines in 2015. This gem was founded by Australian Rebecca Monk and was launched to coincide with the Great Escape festival. Since then, Kooks has played host to numerous music industry events, offering a unique spin to this coffee to cocktail cafebistro. In Australia, locals are obsessed with 'brekkie' and with the nation’s notoriously laid back and authentic attitude, it seems fitting that brunch is so popular. The concept of brunch in Australia has evolved far beyond a simple boozy late breakfast. Brunch is now a social phenomenon that has been dominating the cafe culture by offering an alternative place to not only to socialise with friends and family, but also work. As workers are now freed from the constraints of their desks, these venues provide a more relaxed and inspired environment for day time meetings or brainstorming over a latte. In Melbourne it was not long after the initial introduction of espresso from the Italian immigrants that the brews by day and cocktails by night concept started to grow and evolve to what it is today. The cafe culture here in the UK has, until recently, been more of a day time affair with pubs dominating the evening social scene. However, the more health conscious xennial/ millennial generations are more inclined to source a venue with not only photo worthy cocktails, but also creative, tasty food and that is where Australians have nailed this concept. Reflecting the spirit of 'Aus' with sunny, easy-going days and vibrant buzzing

nights in a relaxed neighbourhood hangout. Kooks is the first place in Brighton to perfectly recreate the brunch vibe from across the ocean. This upbeat neighbourhood favourite has been building its loyal fan base by providing consistent day to night libations and a simple yet progressive menu. On offer are glorious brunch offerings as well as small and large plates, wine, cocktails, coffees and the South coasts very own Metro Deco tea selection. I decided to visit Kooks on a chilly Friday afternoon. The large Canary yellow Kooks signage is impossible to miss as you stroll down the vibrant pedestrianised Gardner Street. Outside there are several tables perfect for people watching, but given the weather I decided to brunch inside. The atmosphere was buzzy, yet calm and the decor chic and cheerful which was a welcome break from the grey skies outside. Bright stools line the contemporary bar with ultra modern light fittings cascading a gentle glow over the guests. . A table was waiting for me in the main restaurant area towards the back. It was a bright and airy space that I was not expecting with wooden tables, colourful chairs and paintings from local artists covering the crisp white walls. As I arrived early afternoon, I noticed how diverse the diners were; a family with two infants, an older middle class couple visiting Brighton for the day, a table of chic women sipping cocktails and a young man tapping away on his laptop whilst devouring a chocolate brownie and flat white. These independent sanctuaries are the total opposite to corporate chains that pump

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out over priced coffee with no heart or soul. In Kooks you can feel the energy that has been put into creating this labour of love. It's personal, local and incredibly welcoming and I found everything in Kooks to be sleek and executed with ease. Lucy introduced herself, warm and genuine with a kilowatt smile that instantly made me feel at home. Having been to a wedding the day before, I was slightly fragile and Lucy immediately put me at ease and pointed out the cracking cocktail list. Indeed hair of the dog is sometimes the only cure, so I started my brunch with a French 77, one of my favourite refreshing cocktails consisting of Elderflower liquor, pignoletto and lemon juice. A perfect pick me up. I invited a friend to join me and it was at this point he walked in and ordered his favourite Brighton bier larger, the original craft brewery and 100% brewed in this city! The team like to use local suppliers as much as possible from Brighton Gin to the Sausage company and I was told that the homemade Pumpkin and caramel cake by 'Lady of Cake' is sensational and another nod to Australia as pumpkin is a popular ingredient down under. I had planned to order brunch as my aim had been to immerse myself in the Aussie ways, but as soon as I looked at the menu I couldn't help but order salt and pepper squid with chilli and spring onions and whitebait with salad and garlic mayo. Both were delicious and if I was going for an early evening cocktail, these would be a perfect accompaniment. As we both had a free afternoon we decided to soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the freedom of a long and lazy brunch. Usually on

a Saturday afternoon we would hit the pub, but there was something quite refreshing about being in a cafe-bistro. The music was fantastic with old school rock favourites and the service friendly without being overbearing. It is easy to see why people come back time and time again as Rebecca has created a down to earth, professional, but incredibly friendly ambience. This was proving to be a unique emotional experience and certainly opening my eyes as to why traditional pubs are in danger of closing. I encouraged my friend to order the biggest brunch on the menu, complete with local butchers sausage, poached eggs, white pudding, tomatoes, crispy bacon, mushrooms and sourdough bread. A gastronomic delight and presented so beautifully. The portions are ideal for a mid day feast and given the silence and lack of sharing, an obvious winner from my breakfast connoisseur. Now, for the purpose of this review and not to be fooled by my brunch focus, I decided to order the beloved icon of America. Not because I was overly hungry, but because I am in search of the ultimate burger and this one sounded delicious. There are plenty of other choices on the big plates menu which starts at midday, The Tofu superfood salad is very popular and when I saw the Haddock and twice cook chips arrive on another table I had slight food envy. However, as my gourmet burger arrived, a classic portrait with fresh crisp lettuce and a juicy patty dark on the outside & lighter in the middle I realised I had made the right choice. A beef burger with Cheddar, red onion marmalade, crispy bacon, lettuce, tomato, Mayo and twice cooked chips. It was superb and I

promise you the twice cooked chips are the best in town! I asked Rebecca to tell me about her favourite dishes which included the Gobi cauliflower Manchurians with crispy onion, chilli and suracha vegan Mayo and of course the very Aussie avocado smash, feta, mint, chilli topped with a poached egg. The espresso martini or mascot to Melbourne is also a Kooks firm favourite and not to be missed. Time seemed to fly as we sat, chatted and continued to work our way through the cocktail list. There was no pressure to leave and it would have been very easy to stay and continue my Friday long into the evening, but all good things must come to an end. We both decided Kooks was a definite double thumbs up and immediately made plans to go again this week. I suppose if good food and outstanding coffee is the life blood of an authentic Aussie establishment, then the heart is definitely the atmosphere. Creating the right vibe that caters for all and can flow smoothly from day to night is no mean feat, but Kooks seem to have found the perfect recipe. It’s a symphony of everything that's good about independent restaurants from food to tunes. It's 100% Bonza! Lindsay Katherine Hills

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Kooks seem to have found the perfect recipe. It’s a symphony of everything that's good about independent restaurants from food to tunes. It's 100% Bonza!"

www.kooksrestaurant.com/

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T H E

Cin Cin R E V I E W

Everybody’s talking about Cin Cin, Brighton’s unique counter dining experience in the heart of the North Laine, and rightly so!

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The food simple, yet incredibly well executed and of a dazzling high quality, at a reasonable and accessible price. The ambiance unmatched in Brighton, with the friendliest, most knowledgeable staff to boot.

he founder David Toscano and head chef Jamie Halsall have made quite a splash on the vibrant Brighton foodie scene since they opened their inaugural restaurant on Vine Street back in 2016. Winning all sorts of awards and accolades in their first year of opening. Such as “Best Welcome” at Brighton’s best restaurants awards, and being voted “6th best restaurant” within their first three months of opening. With their new site opening on Western road imminently, we thought it was about time we visited to find out what all the fuss is about. Being used to me getting us lost, “It can’t be down here” Sally, my fiancé and dining companion for the evening muttered as we walked down the mainly residential Vine Street. I was beginning to doubt myself before we came across it. These doubts disappeared when we saw the inviting glow emanating from the restaurant windows, and, once inside, we were warmly welcomed by the manager Fabrizio into the cosy authentic Italian eatery. Introducing us to Donal the chef, and waitress Lisa, straight away felt like we were being welcomed into someone’s home. Being the first customers of the evening we were able to take in our surroundings as we took our seats at the bar which circles service, preparation area, with the kitchen

in full view to the rear. Cheeses, cured meats and fresh loaves of bread were proudly on display and the smells emanating from these offerings as well as the delicious aromas coming from the kitchen awoke a hunger in me that needed to be immediately satisfied! Sensing this Fabrizio handed us the menus and suggested some nibbles and an aperitif to start the proceedings. We selected some beautiful plump green Nocellara del Belice Olives, and Bresaola – cured venison fillet with shaved parmesan Cula, and sipped our “Cin Cin Belini as we watched Lisa thinly slice the meat. This process let off even more of an aroma and I couldn’t wait to tuck in! The Bresaola, lean and rich in flavour anyway, was further enhanced by the parmesan scrapings, and the olives were some of the juiciest I’ve tasted. Left in peace to peruse the rest of the menu, which is small and simple, consisting of a selection of nibbles, Antipasti sharing boards, small plates, pasta, and deserts. Each section with three select dishes, all well thought out and based on seasonal ingredients sourced from all over Italy. Fabrizio, with his passion for Italian food showing, was keen to explain that being winter, the current menu focusses more on Northern Italy, and the dishes will be hearty and meaty, and as spring comes along the focus will be more geared

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towards fresh vegetables from the south. We opted to try a couple of dishes from each section and share them, as Fabrizio explained in big family homes in Italy, this is how food is served, with plates in the middle and everyone helping themselves. Skipping the antipasti as we were still nibbling on the Bresaola and Olives, we began by sampling the small plates, and as we couldn’t possibly choose between them, we opted to share all three from the menu. The first to arrive was red wine soused squid, capers and castelfranco, which was proudly presented by Donal. The squid was succulent, meaty, and flavoursome, and cooked to perfection. I’ve never tasted squid like it. Even Sally (who usually refuses to eat anything with tentacles and suckers) couldn’t get enough of it. Next we were presented with Burrata and heritage beetroots. A wonderfully creamy dollop of cheese, akin to Mozzarella, but way creamier, on a bed of tangy beetroot, which gave the dish an extra dimension and a wonderful sharp contrast to the cheese. The third and final small plate, Nduja and Polenta crochette. A cylindrical crispy croquette filled with a creamy sauce and packed with spicy sausage with a dollop of vibrant green parsley mayonnaise. Satisfyingly crunchy, wonderfully melty, with subtle

piquant meaty essence. Absolute bliss. All washed down with a lovely rich and complex Italian Chardonnay recommended by Fabrizio, which was citrusy, fresh and elegant and went down a treat! While we ate Donal made regular appearances from the kitchen area to check on his customers and make sure they were enjoying the food. He was genuinely interested in what people thought. Fabrizio, with his passion for Italian cooking apparent, talked at length about dishes from Palermo, Sardinia, and all over Italy, and explained the concepts behind each dish we sampled. The first plate of pasta arrived as A fabulously berry-licious Via Nova Merlot was being poured for us. Ravioli bigusto of Jerusalem artichokes, winter truffle, ricotta and leaks. The pasta, wonderfully soft, as is freshly made on site each day, encased an eruption of rich earthy flavours which wowed the taste buds. The second plate, Gargonelli, with Sussex pork ragu and parmesan cheese was equally as delicious, with much more rounded meaty flavour, and was as equally filling, as it was delicious. We continued with the sharing theme with our deserts, although I have no idea how we found room left to fit them in. On offer were two wildly different and contrasting plates. A blood Orange pannacotta, Tanginess

layered with velvety pistachio cream and topped with crunchy Pistachio nuts. A dreamy desert with which Sally could not hide her delight. My favourite however was the Chocolate Neapolitan – white mousse, dark ganache and milk crumb. The lightness of the mousse soothing the sharpness of the dark chocolate, which Donel informed me he made with water, rather than milk, so as to not dilute the flavour. To summarise, this was an experience we will not forget. The food simple, yet incredibly well executed and of a dazzling high quality, at a reasonable and accessible price. The ambiance unmatched in Brighton, with the friendliest, most knowledgeable staff to boot. 2018 is going to be even bigger for them. Making it into the Waitrose good food guide, and introducing their new addition to Western Road offering a similar intimate experience, with the additions of a private room for hire and adding Charcoal robata style grill, giving Jamie even greater scope to put his Italian spin on Local meat, fish, and vegetable dishes. Tony Shattell

13-16 Vine Street Brighton BN1 4AG www.cincin.co.uk

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9b the Boardwalk Brighton Marina

01273600088 www.memoriesoﬁndiabrighton.com @moibrighton

SAVE 40% OFFABSOLUTE YOUR FOOD BILL Sun-Fri cannot be used with any other oﬀers - table booking required

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P U B P E R F E C T I O N A R R I V E S I N

Worthing There is little doubt that beautiful Sussex is a foodie heaven, boasting an incredible array of restaurants to suit every taste and every budget.

So where do you start when choosing which direction to turn when heading out and about for dinner and drinks? I urge you to start meandering off the beaten track every now and then and explore the wonderful pockets of hidden gastronomic delight that are dotted about throughout the county. This month we start with a hop, skip and a jump over to the coastal town of Worthing to reveal a couple of hidden gems.

Worthing, over the past four years, has seen a vast overhaul in its nightlife offering. With many young families, creatives and professionals buying up properties in this more affordable area on the coast, the demand for upmarket bars, restaurants and pubs has soared and Worthing has certainly come up trumps delivering on that front! It is remarkable the amount of independent restaurants Worthing has to offer, with very few chain restaurants being based in the town. What is even more remarkable is the fact that some of the very greatest cuisine is coming from the humble pub kitchens! Two such pubs taking pub grub to another level are The Egremont and The Corner House. The Egremont is the brainchild of local visionary Greg Grundy who rescued a near derelict landmark public house at the heart of Worthing's conservation area from almost certain closure. He transformed it from a no-go venue to the No1 rated pub in Worthing on Trip Advisor, one of only 8 Worthing pubs to be included The Good Pub Guide and is now receiving national-acclaim from press such as Imbibe and awards such as ‘Drinks List Of The Year’ for the category: Gin List Of The Year. To demonstrate the magnitude of this achievement, the other finalists in various categories included: The American Bar at The Savoy Hotel, Sexy Fish, The OXO Tower, MASH,

The Boisdale, and Prince Harry's favourite bar Mahiki. What an outstanding achievement for a small Worthing pub to measure up to these internationally recognised and celebrated brands.

“With pub closures running at 16 per week nationally, it cannot be understated how the re-opening of this pub and turning it into a profitable employer has been our major achievement. Where most landlords would have surveyed local pub-goers to discover what gimmicks would appeal, we took the opposite approach. To establish our business’ starting point we asked our locals who never went to this pub what put them off from going in and made sure our pub did those things right. The initial result was a fairly traditional pub that never served mean pints, never closed its kitchen at 2pm and never had dirty toilets. From this base we then set about making the pub a preferable place to be rather than your living room and judging by how busy we are we appear to have made Egremont irresistible.” Irresistible is certainly the right word to choose. I visited The Egremont on a sunny but frosty winter afternoon, with the hopes of a hearty lunch to warm the cockles. My cockles were warmed instantaneously when I stepped foot in this inviting and visually captivating pub. Greg has managed to successfully fuse traditional pub accents with imaginative modern twists, quirky memorabilia and homely comforts. It’s very clear that this pub takes presentation very carefully, from the beautifully printed menus on the tables, to the back of the bar displays, the spotless toilets and the eclectic yet perfectly harmonious features such as lighting made from a medley of instruments and stained glass windows. The Egremont menu sets out to offer traditional pub fare plus chef specialities,

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all cooked freshly and to the very highest of standards. The portions are hefty but the prices are certainly not. I opted for the King Prawn Penang Curry and the hubby partner went for the ‘Pie N Mash,’ a traditional beef & onion pie with parsley liquor, served with mashed potatoes, gravy and (optional!) jellied eels. As a staple pub offering, a lot rests on a pie and mash and this one does not disappoint. Declared by my hubby as the best pie he has ever eaten, this was made to the precise London East End recipe; the pie had a suet pastry crust, with the top designed to dip in the rich meaty goodness that filled the inside. My dish was equally as impeccable. I often order by the rule of going for what an establishment specialises in, such as ordering steak from a steakhouse or, like my husband did, a pie from a pub. However, in this case I decided the real proof was in the more obscure dishes. Proof indeed! This Penang Curry was singing with flavour, bursting with freshness and as authentic as you would receive at any top notch Thai restaurant. Greg prides himself on using local suppliers as much as possible, ploughing money back in to the local economy, with fruit and veg from the grocer a few doors down and meat from a local Worthing-based butcher. He is also adamant to ensure that, in the spirit of consistency for his guests, food is served 7 days a week and to keep them on their toes, a specials board is available daily, plus ‘Fish Fridays’ boasting local catches and an infamous ‘French Night’ every Wednesday. It’s not just the food that keeps the punters flowing. Celebrated as a Gin and Beer lover’s haven, The Egremont team are not only fastidious about keeping the extensive beer offering in supreme condition but they also offer a unique experience for ale fans as they are the only pub in the area that brews and retails its own beer under the Kemptown Brewery name. The Egremont also hosted

Worthing’s first Oktoberfest, a now annual celebration of German food, drink and entertainment.

The wine list is equally unique, notably featuring 7 highly-rated clarets that you can purchase by the glass - this is almost unheard of outside London! Add to that live music Thursday to Saturday and private hire areas designed to host 20-100 people and yes, the Egremont is irresistible. Travel a few more streets inland and you will come across The Corner House, owned and managed by a close group of friends and family, brothers Matt and Tim Taylor along with lifelong friend Darren Gearing, affectionately known as ‘Sid’. The three friends have all developed their careers in hospitality across the years culminating with the purchase first of The Beach House on Worthing seafront, and more recently The Corner House.

“After 13 years of running pubs in Brighton (6 years of which involved commuting from Worthing) we decided, with our shareholders that the time was right to open a pub/bar in Worthing - it seemed to us that there was not much of an offering and that there were people who commuted to London and Brighton for work who would appreciate not having to leave Worthing for a decent night out. It seems we were right. Having young children was also a great motivation for finding a way to work closer to home.” Matt Taylor Taking that risk has certainly paid off, with The Corner House now attracting hoards of refined revellers (I’d say the age is generally 25+) every weekend, determined quizzers every Monday, discerning diners every lunch and dinner time throughout the weekend and (my

personal favourite time) serving full houses their legendary Sunday Roasts.

To my delight, our review took place on a frosty Sunday afternoon when my whole family were invited to lunch. I have a willing hubby, a cheeky toddler and a newborn, all of whom were made to feel as welcome as each other. It is clear that The Corner House has family in mind during the daytime. Our rather hefty double buggy was given a parking space next to our table, my little girl was given a high chair without having to ask and my husband…well he just took a seat. The décor is eclectic and comfortable, airy yet cosy and unpretentious. However it is the atmosphere that makes this pub exceptional. It seems that The Corner House team are totally tuned in to their surroundings. The lighting was soft and the playlist started as mellow background tunes. As the afternoon progressed, the place buzzed up as the volume increased suitably and classic all-time favourite tunes descended on the diners. So much so that at one point I thought the whole pub was going to join in one big sing-along. This a place for friends to meet, families to feel comfortable and people to enjoy the fine and dandy things in life. The Corner House roasts totally live up to their reputation. I went for the rare roast beef, hubby had the roast chicken with thyme, garlic and stuffing and the little foodie opted for the specially sized children’s roast chicken. The dishes were mouthwatering works of art, piled high with all the trimmings and piping hot. Each and every aspect of my roast beef was clearly created to perfection and pretty much exactly what I aim for but never achieve when I cook a roast. The veg was super fresh, cooked through with a slight crunch, the potatoes were a perfect blend of crunchy on the

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outside and fluffy within, the Yorkshire pudding was humongous and the beef was plentiful, beautifully pink in the middle and melt in the mouth tender. I’m a bit of a fussy meat eater, leaving (often inexplicable to my husband) large sections that I deem too gristly. Suffice is to say I mopped the lot – this is high quality meat cooked with flair. The Corner House has successfully managed to identify every ingredient that, when combined, creates the perfect pub. We asked Matt Taylor what he believes those ingredients are…

“In no particular order it would have to be the following: The fact that we are a freehouse and offer a wide range of quality lagers, ales, craft beers and wines. Our food is all freshly prepared on the premises by our classically trained head chef John - this includes his wonderful homemade desserts! We have lovely staff and they always give a warm welcome. The general ambience which is helped by our log fire, good music and lighting and the garden with it's heated booths and the living wall.”

Worthing is a coastal town on the up and up and I truly believe this is just the very start of things to come. With exciting indie pubs and restaurants popping up left right and centre, I urge you to hop in the car or catch the Coastliner (so you can have a tipple or two) and make your way over to Sunny Worthing – a very warm welcome awaits. The Egremont 32 Brighton Rd, Worthing BN11 3ED The Corner House 80 High St, Worthing BN11 1DJ

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New Year's Mind, Body and Soul Say goodbye to your 2017 self and kick start 2018 with a full body spring clean. Your attempt at Dry January is water under the bridge and Blue Monday’s comfort eating is a distant memory. It's time to seek help from the professionals at one of Brighton and Hove’s many health and beauty retreats and get that fit and healthy body you resolved to resurrect. Ranging from the luxurious and exclusive to the affordable and no-frills approach, our healthconscious city is teaming with health and beauty opportunities and options to help you on your way. Presenting the Absolute Guide to Mind, Body and Soul…

Body Fuel Café Body Fuel Café is all about healthy, clean food that nourishes the body, is packed with flavour and doesn’t leave you hungry. In their Hove-based venue, everything is made fresh daily on the premises using seasonal, locally-sourced ingredients, from breakfasts and design-your-own salads to their made-to-order superfood smoothies and protein shakes. There are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, dairy- and gluten-free dishes available, plus a wide range of protein-rich options for that ultimate nutrition boost.

Kick-start your day with breakfast of wholemeal banana and blueberry pancakes with low-fat yoghurt, or smoked salmon with spinach and poached eggs. Come lunch, visit their colourful and vibrant salad bar where you can design your own from a wide range of bases (such as roasted sweet potato or spiced couscous) and protein toppings, from grilled steak to vegan gluten-free falafel. 123 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 2AF

Body Fuel Café is all about healthy, clean food that nourishes the body, is packed with flavour and doesn’t leave you hungry.

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Float Spa Brighton Floatation, also known as floating, is a practice where you float effortlessly in a special pod of Epsom Salt water. Without the constant noise of analysing the world around you, your body lowers its levels of cortisol (which is the main chemical component of stress). Your brain releases elevated levels of dopamine and endorphins. Your muscles, joints, and bones take a well-deserved break. Your mind becomes still and your body suddenly has loads of extra resources, which allows it to focus on things like healing and resting – the stress simply floats away. The spine lengthens an inch, chronic pain is relieved, and your muscles are allowed to fully recover. Unlike lying on a mattress, lying in water allows blood to flow freely all throughout your body. About 40 minutes into your float at The Float Spa in Hove, your brain stops producing its normal Alpha waves and starts churning out Theta waves. The Theta state is typically associated with advanced meditative techniques and provides

A New You A New You is an independent and CQC registered clinic based in the centre of Brighton near the station, offering a wide range of cosmetic surgery and cosmetic treatments to both men and women.

an immense clarity of thought and an experience of the pure essence of being. Floatation is a tool that makes this state easily accessible to anyone. Even the magnesium-based Epsom Salts, we use at The Float Spa in Hove are good for you. They soften and replenish your skin, and help counteract the magnesium deficiency that most of us have due to depleted magnesium levels in our soil and food. www.thefloatspa.co.uk

This no contract, no frills gym provides its visitors with top of the range equipment,

They provide a tailor-made, personal service, supporting clients through their procedures from start to finish. The clinic is run by Jackie Knight, a Registered Nurse with over 20 year’s experience in the cosmetic surgery industry, so you know you are in good hands. As well as being extremely knowledgeable, Jackie is adept at putting people at ease, ‘hand-holding’ her clients through their procedures from start to finish. They pride themselves on offering truly impartial expert advice and also exceptional aftercare. 78 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 4EB

Underground Gym This no contract, no frills gym provides its visitors with top of the range equipment, plus all the practical extras. They have good sized male and female changing rooms with showers and lockers and a drinks bar that is open all day serving you all the workout shakes you need. Perhaps most convenient of all, they also have fingerprint recognition sign in which means you will never need to remember that gym card! 8 Camden St, Portslade, BN41 1AW, United Kingdom

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Located on Brighton seafront, this new hotel on the scene provides a relaxing retreat in the heart of our lively city.

Brighton Harbour Hotel Spa Located on Brighton seafront, this new hotel on the scene provides a relaxing retreat in the heart of our lively city. They offer an extensive range of luxurious spa treatments along with everyday beauty needs, including facials, manicures, pedicures and massages. Their experienced spa therapists will carefully tailor each treatment to your individual preferences and skin requirements, offering advice to those who are sure of the best treatments for them. Whether you’re visiting Brighton Harbour Spa for a one-off treatment, or an indulgent spa day or spa break, you’re sure to leave relaxed, revitalised and feeling pampered from head to toe.

4 Kings Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1NA

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Their tanning experts are trained to advise on the best UV or nonUV tanning solution.

Bring the fun back to your fitness at this great-value 24-hour gym in Brighton which welcomes everyone and every body, contract free.

Pure Gym Bring the fun back to your fitness at this great-value 24-hour gym in Brighton which welcomes everyone and every body, contract free.

Tanning Shop This nationwide tanning salon offers state of the art UV and spray tanning solutions in a friendly, clean, bright, and, above all, immaculate salon. Their tanning experts are trained to advise on the best UV or non-UV tanning solution for your needs, identifying skin type and tanning history.

Leave the crowds behind and step into Tanning Shop to be transported miles away from the outside world. With plenty of beds and extended opening hours, you can tan at your convenience with or without an appointment. Whether you prefer UV, Sunless Tanning or both, they will help you build, maintain and care for your tan. They also have tanning and skin care products that range from base tan builders to bronzing lotions all chosen for their effectiveness in delivering a deeper, darker, longer-lasting tan.

130 Queens Rd, Brighton, East Sussex BN1 3WB

The experienced Pure Gym team are ready to help you lose weight, tone up, strengthen muscle, recover from injury or whatever you need to help you feel fitter and healthier. Despite being a ‘cheap gym’ they have more than 220 top-quality pieces of kit throughout the club. Don’t worry if you are new to exercise because you can go at your own speed, but they also have state-of-the-art equipment for those more experienced - whether you’re a regular or a downright gym fanatic.

Pure Gym is not just stacked with gear, they are packed with free classes too! If you love to work out in the company of friends or colleagues at your own speed then look no further.Whether you fancy the high intensity of fat burn, working out with the aerobics crowd or prefer the slower-paced pilates or yoga classes to improve your flexibility and core muscles, they have something for you. Take advantage of more than 50 free classes to help your health kick. 14 Tower Point, North Road, Brighton, BN1 1YR

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Little Jasmine is a popular choice for men, women and couples in Brighton, Hove and further afield thanks to their amazing spa packages and home pamper parties.

Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa This established beauty salon and day spa is situated in the vibrant North Laine area of Brightonan oasis of calm amongst the bohemian buzz. With modern massage facilities, relaxing atmosphere and some of the best therapists in the city, Little Jasmine is a popular choice for men, women and couples in Brighton, Hove and further afield thanks to their amazing spa packages and home pamper parties.

14 New Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1UF

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The surgeries are state of the art with the best in equipment and stringent sterilisation procedures.

42 Juice Dental Health Spa Conceived in September 2007 by Clinical Director and 2011’s Dental Hygienist of the Year finalist, Christina Chatfield, DentalHealth Spa strives to offer you the very best in contemporary dental care. Their highly qualified professional dental practitioners provide care and treatment regardless of your current or previous dental history. This is not a dental surgery as you know it. They work in an open environment, protecting your privacy without conducting treatments behind intimidating closed doors. The surgeries are state of the art with the best in equipment and stringent sterilisation procedures. They also offer you the opportunity to brighten your smile with a range of affordable toothwhitening treatments in full confidence, knowing that you are receiving professional treatment from reliable practitioners that specialise in working with teeth. 14 - 15 Queens Road, Brighton, BN1 3WA

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Cold pressed juice producers 42 JUICE claim that their focus is to give their customer delicious, nutritious products that make you smile. "Keeping our customers happy is fundamental to us and we want to be there for you every step of the way". The juices and nut milks are made on site daily ensuring we give you the freshest, most vibrant juices possible. Organic cold-pressed juices and real healthy products should be more available and accessible to everyone. "We want the process to be easy, achievable, delicious and convenient so that a healthy lifestyle can be enjoyable and maintained".

The main benefits of having cold-pressed juice is that you are getting the purest you can get in terms of nutritional value from the fruit and veggies that make up your juice. No other juicer will give you this many vitamins and minerals that your body can absorb as easily in such a short space of time. Fact. www.42juice.com 19 Market Street, Brighton, BN1 1HH

No+Vello UK

Treatment Rooms

Described as ‘the undisputed world leader in IPL hair removal & skin rejuvenation’ this Hove based salon offers the latest IPL hair removal system with a revolutionary flat rate of £39 per area-per session.

Escape into a serene world and experience all aspects of Beauty Therapy and massage treatments for well-being in this popular Brighton Beauty salon. On site you will find 10 treatment rooms, changing rooms, a relaxation room and a large welcoming reception with a retail shop.

Other strings to their bow include cosmetic treatments such as LED Teeth Whitening, Cellulite Reduction, Body firming and a whole host of top-of-therange skin and body care products.

Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 2FN

Described as ‘the undisputed world leader in IPL hair removal & skin rejuvenation’

Treatments are available for both men and women, 7 days of the week and include facials, body wraps and massages, as well as a wide range of anti-aging treatments. Jessica manicures and pedicures are very popular, as well as various hair removal treatments and semi-permanent make up application The variety of massages on offer include couples massage in their double room, plus LaStone, Ayurvedic, Lava Shell, Hot Stone and Pregnancy and mens massage.

Escape into a serene world and experience all aspects of Beauty Therapy and massage treatments for well-being in this popular Brighton Beauty salon.

David Lloyd Brighton has something for everyone.

21 New Road, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1UF

David Lloyd Brighton Located in Brighton Marina is this unique gym and club, easily accessible by car and public transport. They offer everyone a warm and friendly welcome, with a real sense of community amongst staff and members. Whether you’re looking for a gym in Brighton, an expansive swimming pool, a varied timetable of classes or somewhere to spend time with your family, David Lloyd Brighton has something for everyone. The DLicious cafebar is particularly popular with members as it has amazing views out to sea towards Brighton Pier. The big windows let in loads of light, creating a wonderful airy space to enjoy a coffee or meal. Brighton Marina Village, Brighton, BN2 5UF

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A comprehensive range of massages from traditional Thai massage, therapeutic treatments, advance deep tissue and reflexology, along with rejuvenating facials.

Concordia Dental Healthcare Concordia meaning 'Harmony' in Latin provides a five star bespoke service, treating patients comprehensively and tailoring specific packages to suit their individual needs and wants. They look at all dental aspects including a range of general, cosmetic and aesthetic dental treatments that generations of their patients have come to rely on.

Concordia Dental Healthcare offers every client a relationship based on openness, trust and understanding with complete freedom of choice in their treatment options. During every stage of your visit, you will experience professionalism and personal care and as a valued patient, you will receive only the best possible professional treatment available using leading edge technology.

39a Salisbury Road, Hove,East Sussex,BN3 3AA

Concordia Dental Healthcare offers every client a relationship based on openness, trust and understanding with complete freedom of choice in their treatment options.

Chutima Therapy Chutima Therapy is an ambient Thai massage and spa treatment room oasis dressed with contemporary Thai design, situated in the heart of the beautiful and historic Brighton Lanes.

They are proud to offer a truly relaxing and revitalising experience with a holistic approach, complete with a comprehensive range of massages from traditional Thai massage, therapeutic treatments, advance deep tissue and reflexology, along with rejuvenating facials and beauty therapies for both women and men. Chutima Therapy also provide specialised treatments including pregnancy and postnatal massage, couples massage along with a range of unique pampering day spa packages. 106 Trafalgar Street, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 4ER

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Uniquely Organic EcoSpa

Only organic products are used, not only to offer the kindest, purest treatment, but also to ensure minimal impact on the environment.

Uniquely Organic EcoSpa aims to offer clients individually-tailored treatments that address the body holistically in order to create improved health and well-being. Only organic products are used, not only to offer the kindest, purest treatment, but also to ensure minimal impact on the environment. All treatments available are chosen for their holistic qualities and are carried out by highly-skilled therapists who are passionate in their commitment to chemical-free treatments; environmental toxins are challenge enough to keep at bay without actively massaging them into our faces and bodies.

40 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 2FN

Wickwoods Health Wickwoods Country Club, Hotel & Spa is one of the most progressive lifestyle venues in West Sussex, offering Health, Fitness and Lifestyle Memberships, Your Spa Treatments and Accommodation. Located in 22 acres of landscaped gardens and woodland in the South Downs National Park, Wickwoods is just 15 minutes north of Brighton.

Maintaining or improving your health, fitness and well-being at Wickwoods couldn’t be easier. They have one of the best presented and most well-equipped facilities in the region and their entire team is committed to helping you make the most of your membership, guiding you every step of the way. Shaves Wood Lane, Albourne, West Sussex, BN6 9DY

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HOTELS & SPAS

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The Best Places To Refresh This February and March By Brighton Girl Problems January is over; the slog that was January, shall we say. A month that seemed to last 87 weeks rather than the typical 4 and a half, it was filled with a constant feeling of sluggishness; walking around the house in slightly too-tight jeans and seeing leftover Christmas chocolate still piled into an overflowing tin of Celebrations sitting on the living room coffee table, staring menacingly at you as you undo yet another button.

or those of us that weren’t embarking on Dry January (myself included), the month seemed to involve hangover aplenty, trying to fill the endless void that was January with gin and tonics and a cheese board, polished off with the endless supply of crackers that you seem to have accumulated in your kitchen cupboards. We have now, finally, drifted into February, and things are looking up. Christmas is over (at least until August anyway, when Christmas crackers and tartan wrapping paper start creeping onto the shelves), and our resolutions are beginning to actually mean something to us. I feel like January is sometimes too soon to really begin that ‘fresh start, clean slate’ we all have in mind, because the pressure is too immense. We feel bad for that New Years bloat we still have, and the fact we aren’t quite ready to step back into the gym, or get cracking on that big pile of books we’d promised ourselves we’d have made a huge dent in by the time January 31st rolled around. Now is the time to make something of the year, and make a positive change in your life. Wellbeing seems to be at the forefront of everyone’s agenda in 2018, and so it should be; mental and physical health needs to be prioritised. Not just in the traditional sense of vegetables and 3 litres of water a day, which of course it should…but extra mature cheddar and a bottle of wine aren’t to be feared either. Brighton is rife with places that can completely transform the way you feel, look, and think, and this is the year to explore them and see what they have to offer. Wellbeing is often thought of as taking a class, or doing some yoga; to me, it’s about putting myself first and putting myself first, always means a good old fashioned pamper. The Harbour Hotel & Spa, one of Brighton’s newest spa and hotel establishments, is the ideal place to get away and relax. Situated right in the centre of

the busy and bustling city, the second you step inside you’re transported away. The spa which is in the basement, with hot tubs and Jacuzzis in the darkened wine cellar, will relax you and make your troubles melt away. Of course, a nice chilled glass of prosecco wouldn’t go a miss either. You really do need to quench your thirst after a strenuous relaxation session, anyway! You can head upstairs to The Jetty after for something to eat, with the menu packed full of delicious choices; there’s a huge choice of both fish, meat and vegetarian choices, and a dessert menu to make your mouth water; did someone say chocolate fondant? Perhaps a more indulgent and luxurious route to go down in terms of wellbeing, but it’s well deserved if you’re under stress. A massage may seem trivial, but it can do even the biggest non-believer the world of good. One of my resolutions this year is to really focus on my physical health, and as someone who isn’t particularly athletic, my thoughts turned to yoga. Yoga Haven in Brighton offers every different type of yoga you could imagine, from restorative yoga (this mainly focuses on your breathing), to something a bit more strenuous and physical like hot yoga. It really is worth a visit. Not even to just improve your physical health in terms of weight loss and toning up and flexibility, but yoga has so many health benefits mentally, especially when you’re in a relaxing setting such as somewhere like Yoga Haven. Yoga Haven do beginners yoga, one to one yoga and also pregnancy yoga, so there really is something for everyone, no matter what you’re looking to get out of it, or what your personal needs might be. One of the biggest resolutions people have in the new year is getting fit, and that, of course, has a big impact on your wellbeing. Joining a gym is a scary prospect; will everyone there be neon lycra clad, with rippling muscles and toned abdomens and know exactly what they’re doing?

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Nuffield Health in Brighton also offers a multitude of options to get your fitness back up to scratch; classes from Pilates to Zumba, swimming lessons and classes, personal training and nutritional therapy, meaning you can get help with depression and anxiety, weight management, skin conditions, digestive disorders and so much more, by learning about what foods will set off particular issues, and learning how to control them. They also offer Health MOTs there which are a free one hour health check for members of the gym, where you get time with a highly trained personal trainer who will look at your fitness and perform blood glucose and blood pressure tests too, and help you set some achievable goals. Wickwoods Country Club also offers a gym, swimming pool, tennis, and spa; meaning you can kick back and relax after any strenuous activity! They have 1-2-1 Nutrition consultations, and I love the sound of them because they focus on sustainable nutrition rather than fad, unhealthy diets. I’m a big believer in not starving yourself, or going on ridiculous diets that involve cutting whole food groups out, and rather eating good, healthy food, and being able to eat things like sugar and fat and carbohydrates without feeling guilty because we are constantly told they are the enemy; at Wickwoods Country Club you’ll actually

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Brighton is fortunately also bursting at the seams with parks that are absolutely free, to run, walk and jog around.

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learn about how your body uses all those different food groups and how they’re vital, essential parts of your daily diet to keep it working like a well oiled machine. Of course, everything previously mentioned costs money, and I don’t want you to think that your wellbeing has to have a correlation to your finances; as they say, the best things in life are free. Living by the sea, we are so lucky that we can go for a run, or even just a walk, along the beach. I’m a firm believer there’s nothing better than fresh sea air. Brighton is fortunately also bursting at the seams with parks that are absolutely free, to run, walk and jog around. You don’t need to have a direct debit coming out of your bank account each month to get fit and feel good about yourself; sometimes the best things are right on your doorstep, and they don’t cost a penny either. Whatever you’re doing this year to improve your health and wellbeing, make sure that you’re putting yourself first, and feeling good about what you’re doing. Whether it’s a luxurious massage, or a 15 minute stroll along the seafront, if it’s making you feel positive, then carry on. 2018 is the year for feeling happy and healthy, starting today.

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Samsung Sound Bar

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Absolute

London Lifestyle East London Style. Feast your eyes on the Absolute guide to what’s happening in East London right now and launch yourself head first into a sparkling treasure trove of stylish delights.

ast London is a melting pot of old and new, modern and vintage, bustling and relaxed. This month Absolute London Lifestyle opens its little book to reveal some of East London’s most wonderful gems that are always worth a visit. Browse for vintage finds, rave all night until the sun the comes up or educate yourself with all the wonderful cultural spots dotted around the East of London just waiting to be explored. Food and drink, music, culture and shopping; East London has something for everyone. Travel to East London is easy via the main line stations of King Cross St Pancras and London Bridge, and the main

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underground lines of Central, District and Circle, Northern and the Overground.

All the plants and flowers are extremely fresh and reasonably priced. If you visit on a Sunday afternoon as the market stall holders are getting ready to pack away, then you may Culture - Be a culture vulture and take a journey through the streets of East London, pick up some bargains. All the stall traders and it won’t take long before you find national are a friendly bunch, with expert knowledge treasures, ornate historical buildings, breath- and are always more than happy to help you taking views, beautiful green spaces, fantastic pick your favourite cut flowers and advise on plant care. Tucked away behind Columbia flowers and authentic markets. Road you will find antique shops and other stalls selling vintage furniture, clothes and Columbia Road Flower Market near Tower ornaments. The market opens from 8am at Hamlets is an Absolute London Lifestyle the weekends and traders start packing up favourite. I visit this magnificent place a around 3pm. Stop for a bite to eat during your couple of times a year to choose wonderful seasonal blooms and stock up on bedding and trip at the popular Stingray pizzeria at 109 Colombia Road, open every day from 11am to patio plants for the garden.

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11pm serving amazing pizza, fresh salads, homemade bread and a huge selection of wines. The Stingray is the perfect place to relax after an afternoon surrounded by beautiful plants and fragrant flowers. Sunday is free parking around the back streets surrounding Columbia Road, and the nearest tubes are Bethnal Green on the Central line and White Chapel on the District line, and Hammersmith and City line, while the nearest over ground stations are Hoxton and Shoreditch High Street.

After flower shopping take a short stroll down to Spitalfields City Farm. They always have popular events lined up throughout the year including goat racing, a sheep and wool fair, summer fair, harvest festival and a Christmas fair. It’s full of farm yard animals, a wildlife garden, herb and vegetable garden and a lovely café serving ethically sourced food and produce. Victoria Park in Bow is one of the largest parks in Tower Hamlets and home of the Love Box music festival in the summer months. It’s also a great place to relax when festival free. You will find charming antiquated pubs dotted around the edge of this leafy oasis in the middle of East London, perfect for a pint and Sunday stroll. The nearest underground station is Mile End. London Fields in Hackney, is another lovely green space worth a visit with a cricket pitch, outdoor gym, wild meadow, BBQ area, Lido, children’s play areas, and both tennis and table tennis courts. Stratford is home to the infamous Olympic Park, a wonderful relic from the 2012 Olympic Games. It’s the perfect open green space and worth a visit when you need some time away from the crowded streets and hustle and bustle of the city and packed shops.

The Tower of London is a beautiful place to visit. Take a snoop around the infamous palace, prison and fortress and keep an eye out for the iconic Yeoman Warders aka the Beefeaters, who are the ceremonial guardians of the beautiful crown jewels. Join one of their guided tours which is included in the price of the ticket, or perhaps try one of the Tower Twilight Tours and be treated to out of hours access. Entrance fee for adults is £21.50 and children (5-15 years) £9.70. Entrance is free if you have a membership to the Historic Royal Palaces. The nearest tube is Tower Bridge on the District and Circle line.

Just a stone throw (or a few stops on the District and Circle line) from the Tower of London is the magnificent Monument structure which was designed by Sir Christopher Wren in commemoration of the Great Fire of London in 1666. It’s open daily until 5pm to members of the public who wish to tackle the 60-meter Monument Climb which is 311 steps to the top. Adults pay £4.50 for the privilege, while children (5-15 years) are £2.30 and concessions are £3, and the entrance fee is payable by cash only. The best way to get to Monument is via London Bridge then walk over the bridge or hop on a bus – 17, 521, 21, 43, 133, 48 and 149 which are all routes through London Bridge. Bethnal Green is where you will discover The Museum of Childhood at the Victoria & Albert Museum. This enchanting place is the largest museum of this kind in the world and everyone who visits will experience intrigue and nostalgia as they stroll around this inspiring building. Arrive from 2pm onwards for quieter visiting times. Admission is free, and the nearest tube is Bethnal Green on the Central line.

Still looking for something to do? then jump on the Emirates Air Line cable car across East London which is a glorious way to see all the splendid slights and the magnificent views of the Docklands and City. The cable car journey runs from the Greenwich Peninsula to the Royal Docks and back again for just £7.

Shopping - Pick up vintage finds, restored furniture or discover new designers and fashion talent in the quirkiest areas of East London.

Box Park in Shoreditch is an Absolute favourite and has a wonderful selection of pop up shops, perfect for gifts and for treating yourself. My favourite shop here is The Camden Watch company. This part of

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Shoreditch also has great pop up bars and restaurants which are all worth a visit.

Old Spitalfields Market is great for vintage clothes and art work. After shopping, head to The Diner for champagne cocktails or to feast on their amazing selection of brunch delights where the eggs come anyway you like. Brick Lane at the weekend has plenty of market stalls to browse around where you are sure to pick up some bargains. There are also lots of vintage and secondhand shops such as Rokit London which is one of the best vintage stores around.

Music - Music makes the world go around and East London has amazing music venues with great line-ups all year, so go get those dancing shoes on.

The amazing urban venue that is Village Underground is a hidden treasure of Shoreditch. The entrance is tucked away down Holywell Lane, and this vast unique space is home to some of the best club nights in London for Trance, Tech, Hip Hop, House and Drum and Base, and infamous for hosting amazing Sunday daytime raves.

XOYO in Shoreditch, Cowper Street, hosts DJs and live music across 3 floors on Friday and Saturday nights with free entry before 10pm. Fabric is where you land when you want to rave in the City. The 25,000 square feet of Fabric opened back in 1999 and is a renovated space in the Metropolitan Cold Stores in Farringdon. Fabric is quite simply a clubbers club. There are three rooms, with a vibrating dance floor in room one, where international DJs play alongside underground and emerging talent and live acts from all over the world, playing house, techno, electro, disco, dub-step, drum and bass, and grime just to name a few.

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London Lifestyle Drinks - Fancy imaginative cocktails, shots till you drop, eclectic secret gin bars, antiquated pubs serving flagons of sought after craft beers, superior wines by the crate and champagne by the jeroboam? East London has great venues serving every tipple imaginable.

Shoreditch hosts a plethora of trendy bars and pubs, one of my favourites being McQueen’s, which has a fantastic outdoor space in the heart of Shoreditch, perfect for spring evening drinks. The last time I was here it was packed out so make sure you prebook your seating area, and they do a great selection of substantial bar snacks so there is no excuse to demolish the entire cocktail list on a completely empty stomach. Alternatively line your stomach at the Hoxton Grill, a fun American style bar and restaurant serving delicious salads and mouth-watering ribs and steaks. The Book Club in Shoreditch is quite simply too cool for school. Everyone in here is extraordinarily trendy and you find lots of fashion and arty types swaying around to cool music in urban shabby chic bar surroundings. By day the converted two floor Victorian warehouse is perfect for brunch or lunch, by night the arty space is home to great DJs. Shoreditch is also where you will find Flight Club, the place that has made darts at the forefront of trendy. Flight Club landed in Shoreditch after being founded in Chicago and subsequently darts is now no longer just for masses of men swigging beer in grotty pubs, eating pork scratchings. Darts has now been made edgy, fast paced, with multiplayer games that are fun and sophisticated. Flight Club is a perfect place for drinks if you want something rather more exciting than just sitting in a booth getting boozy. Grab your mates and get competitive along with heaving sharing platters, shots and mouthwatering cocktails.

Jump on the over ground to Old Street and visit Bounce. It’s urban and cool, where table tennis is relaxed, fun and a totally immersive experience, which was founded by the creator of Flight Club.

Singer Street in Old Street is where you will discover a small bespoke gem of bar called The Golden Bee. It feels small initially upon arriving, but then opens out revealing a stylish bar and dance floor. The unique outside space is reached by a spiral staircase where roaring fire pits and an abundance of cosy blankets await you, where you are welcome to devour cocktails during gorgeous evenings admiring the spectacular London skyline.

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If you are setting your sights for drinks in the city, then look no further than One New Change. Situated right next to the beautiful St Pauls, One New Change is home to the Madison bar. It’s normally packed to rafters each evening with city office workers and has the most amazing views of the City of London. There are queues for the glass elevators on most evenings so arrive early if you have set your heart on watching the sunset, especially when the sun has made an appearance on a gloriously warm evening in the city. London Bridge must be one of the most well connected and busiest places in London. When you find yourself in this part of London you simply must visit the Shard, it’s quite large so I promise you won’t miss it. This great glass fortress is home to two wonderful bars. Oblix at The Shard, on floor 32 is where one can sip decadent cocktails while absorbing the sights of the city. Its sophisticated pal, Aqua Shard is just below on floor 31, so you literally hop in the lift and descend to the floor below when the desire and martinis have taken over. The drinks in these bars are fancy and more expensive than your regular pub but worth every penny to see the sights and it is quite simply the most divinely perfect place for a first date!

Food - East London is renowned for amazing places to discover every type of cuisine. Authentic bagels, traditional Italian pizza, infamous sushi and amazing curry. East London is where you can find anything to fix the biggest food cravings and desires. Go out for tasty appetisers, indulgent main courses and exquisite desserts all in different places, or head out for a breakfast feast, grab a speedy lunch or pick up a street food dinner, and be prepared to amaze your taste buds. Pizza East is a fantastic Shoreditch pizza restaurant which is open late until midnight or 2am on Friday and Saturday nights, so you can pop in on your way home after a big night out. It serves amazing pizza in generous portions and well worth the money. It’s the most perfect way to end any evening and far more sophisticated than standing around in a dingy kebab shop with severe, unflattering lighting waiting for chips and a dreadful greasy kebab. Brick Lane is the destination for more culinary delights. The bagels in Brick Lane are always a must when you are out in East London at the weekend. Pick up a traditional salt beef and pastrami bagel with mustard at the infamous Beigel Bake at 159 Brick Lane. At weekends there is always a queue out of the door and down the street so get in line fast. If Bagels are not your thing then there are masses of curry houses serving mouth-watering decadent classic dishes all day and night. The most popular bars and restaurants in London unsurprisingly seem to have the

best views and Sushi Samba in Bishopsgate is no exception. Be prepared to board a great glass elevator up to the 38th floor of the Heron Tower. If there’s space you can just head straight to the bar for drinks without a reservation and hang around ready to catch an empty table, although this is unlikely on a busy Saturday night. It’s advisable to book a table to sample the incredible sushi, taste the most delicious cocktails and take your time to admire the astonishing view of the City of London. The City is also home to the strikingly beautiful Sky Garden which towers over Fenchurch Street. The famous glass dome encases a three-storey space of public landscaped gardens, an observation deck and open-air terrace. Access to the public gardens are free but you must book entry tickets in advance and they have a limited number of tickets available per day. Dine in the glamourous Fenchurch Restaurant or Darwin Brasserie, and try cocktails in Sky Pod, Fenchurch Terrace and City Garden Bar, all with great views, superb décor, fantastic service and inspiring seasonal menus with something for any occasion and to satisfy whatever your mood. Charlie McBrien

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Seychelles TravelGuide Smartphone App Free download + Available 100% Offline

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Seychelles Summer 2018 is starting to shine its light at the end of this drizzly tunnel and as per usual, the sunshine season comes with expectations of rest and relaxation, adventure and exploration and sun-drenched drinking and dining. But how do you go about meeting these expectations, ensuring that this summer is the brightest yet? How about taking up BA’s new offer to discover paradise with direct flights to the mecca of Indian Ocean chic; The Seychelles.

rom March 24th 2018 customers will be able to fly direct from Heathrow Terminal 5 to the Seychelles, making British Airways the only airline offering a non-stop service from the UK. Scattered across the Indian Ocean and famed as some of the most idyllic islands on the planet, flights will take to the skies twice-a-week from March to October and will be operated by the airline’s newest fleet of aircraft, the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. The Seychelles offers honeymooners, families and sun worshippers world famous beaches, crystal clear waters, easy island hopping and colourful coral reefs. With flights taking off on Wednesdays and Saturdays, the route timetable is perfectly positioned for honeymooners and holidaymakers keen to immerse themselves in island-life for longer and book 10 night trips and extend their break.

Sean Doyle, British Airways’ director of network and alliances, said: “The Seychelles is one of the most beautiful places on earth and we’re delighted to be adding this collection of islands to our extensive route network. Customers can now get into ‘holiday mode’ even earlier with British Airways’ direct flights from London taking 10 hours, instead of over 13 hours with a connection in the Middle East. As one of the leading luxury holiday destinations, the Seychelles offers customers a wide range of accommodation and activities in stunning natural surroundings.” Heavenly beaches, tropical greenery, guaranteed sunshine on tap and luscious peaked backdrops are the key ingredients that all 115 paradise islands that collectively form The Seychelles have in common. Scattered like summer blossom across the Indian Ocean, The Seychelles is a destination well-renowned for being the ultimate in luxury, celebrity escapes and the honeymoon location that dreams are made of. With this VIP clientele, it is easy to understand why The Seychelles has a reputation for being

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reserved only for the likes of the incredibly rich and famous. Luckily for the rest of us, this is a reputation misplaced as thanks to a collection of luxurious yet affordable boutique hotels and BA’s new offering, holidaying utopia is indeed more accessible than you think. Firstly, flight prices are now much more reasonable than you would think. With BA, return fares start from £699 in World Traveller, £999 in World Traveller Plus, £2499 in Club World and from £3499 for First, and are available to book now on ba. com. With these offers, you will soon be enjoying everything the islands offer, from beach dwelling to incredible jungle trails, mind-blowing nature watching, fine-dining and all at an andante tempo.

The Seychelles offers a unique opportunity to hop across these charming islands, taking in the diverse culture that each provides, enriched by the islands’ colourful history. As a country, the Seychelles was settled as recently as the mid-18th century, by French colonists and their retainers. The first people to settle temporarily on islands were the ancestors of the people who eventually populated the nearby island of Madagascar. They rode the oceans on primitive but rugged outrigger canoes from their home in the SundaIslands of the Malay Archipelago sometime between 200 and 500 AD and it is likely some of their craft, blown off course during their spectacular migration, used the islands as a base before venturing on into the azure vastness to what would eventually become their new home. From this early fleeting visit followed Arab explorers in the 9th century as they made their first forays into what they called ‘bahr al zanj’, (the sea of the blacks) and Portuguese navigator Juan de Nova made the first recorded landfall in the Seychelles in 1501. This was followed by a sighting of her Amirantes group by the celebrated Vasco de Gama in the following year.

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The Seychelles is a destination wellrenowned for being the ultimate in luxury, celebrity escapes and the honeymoon location that dreams are made of.

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Seychelles The next group of people to visit Seychelles and use it as a lair were the pirates. A little known historical fact places a large pirate community on the island of Ile Ste. Marie off north-western Madagascar in the early 1700’s as they fled, first the Caribbean and then the Cape Verde Islands to find a haven in the unknown waters of the western Indian Ocean. In Ile Ste Marie they founded their own pirate republic - Libertalia, complete with its own laws and language and they managed a commercial operation so large that it even tempted the Americans to travel for the first time into the Indian Ocean. The pirates came and went but, after several exploratory expeditions, the French finally claimed the islands’ beauty as their own, first occupying Ste Anne island before moving on to Mahé.

The year 1789 saw the start of the French Revolution. The colony in Seychelles at this time consisted of 69 French, including three soldiers, 32 free 'coloureds' and 487 slaves. In 1790 the French community, fired by the new spirit of revolution, set up their own Assembly and Committee, announcing independence from the Isle de France. But the newly independent colony did not last long. One by one the great declarations of independence were dropped, particularly the abolition of slavery, which was not at all popular with the colonists. Eventually it was agreed that the powers of the committee should be given to a new commandant who would be able to govern more effectively; Captain Queau de Quinssy (later spelt Quincy).

During the Napoleonic wars the islands changed hands between the French and the English several times, and it was soon agreed that Seychelles should be a neutral port to the English and the French. The British fought for Seychelles because it was a strategic point on the route between India and the Cape and in 1810, Seychelles

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becoming British property was now guaranteed, and duly occurred in 1814. Quincy remained in office under British rule and died on Mahé in 1827 at the age of 79. He was buried with full honours near Government House, where his impressive grave still stands today. Under the British rule, Seychelles gained roads, schools, churches and a hospital. By 1900 the population had grown to 7,000 and in 1903 Seychelles became a crown colony in its own right, separate at last from Mauritius. The British Governor commemorated the event by erecting a clock tower in the centre of Victoria, a replica of the clock tower at London’s Vauxhall Bridge.

Although a British colony, the culture of Seychelles remained steadfastly French. British Governors did attempt to anglicise the islands, but with little success: customs and language did not alter much during the British colonial era.

It was during the Second World War that the winds of political change began to stir in Seychelles and independence from Britain was gained in 1976, and today Seychelles is a Republic with a population of 93,000 within the British Commonwealth, under the leadership of President Danny Rollen Faure. From those early settlement days, and right through to today, The Seychelles have remained sanctuaries for some of the rarest species of flora and fauna on earth. So rare, that the Vallée de Mai which nurtures the legendary coco-de-me, was once thought to be the original site of the biblical Garden of Eden. The islands remain one of the purest, most environmentally intact destinations on earth offering great a diversity of experiences and accepting around only 300,000 visitors a year.

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The 115 islands are hailed for their exquisite natural beauty, the peaceful harmony enjoyed by the multi-ethnic society and a near perfect climate where the temperature is always somewhere between 24 and 33 degrees Celsius, earning the islands a reputation as ‘land of perpetual summer'. Out of all of the Seychelles islands, currently only 16 have hotels, several of which offer the most luxurious amenities and all of which possess their own natural charm. They offer everything from the opulence of world-famous 5-star resorts to the picturesque charms of affordable smaller hotels, Creole guest houses and self caterings.

Foodies travel from far and wide to dine upon the delectable Seychellois Creole cuisine. The origins of the racially mixed Seychellois are also revealed in their cooking. From India comes many varieties of curry; from China come popular rice dishes and stir-fried vegetables and noodles with steamed fish, and from France the aromatic blends of garlic and herbs. All these influences, mixed with a huge selection of seafood plucked out of the Indian Ocean and a variety of tropical fruits and vegetables make eating out in Seychelles a culinary delight.blown off course during their spectacular migration, used the islands as a base before venturing on into the azure vastness to what would eventually become their new home. From this early fleeting visit followed Arab explorers in the 9th century as they made their first forays into what they called ‘bahr al zanj’, (the sea of the blacks) and Portuguese navigator Juan de Nova made the first recorded landfall in the Seychelles in 1501. This was followed by a sighting of her Amirantes group by the celebrated Vasco de Gama in the following year.

The 115 islands are hailed for their exquisite natural beauty, the peaceful harmony enjoyed by the multi-ethnic society and a near perfect climate

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Seychelles With 115 diverse islands spread across an area of 1,400,000 sq. km. of sparkling waters, one can well understand seafarers who believe that God created Seychelles with the sailor in mind. Chartering a yacht provides perhaps the most rewarding way of discovering the hidden treasures of the archipelago at one's own pace and whim, cruising in cyclone-free waters and enjoying a dazzling array of inner islands with golden beaches fringed by warm, turquoise waters. The Seychelles has some of the most bountiful fishing grounds in the world and you do not have to venture far from the shoreline to break fishing records. Seychelles boasts one of the most varied catches on the planet which varies from sailfish, whaooand tuna to barracuda, trevally, streaker and even the mighty marlin. The blue utopian waters and their inhabitants also provide visitors with breathtaking diving opportunities, satisfying all from the experienced to the novice. Each dive site promises a marine extravaganza as diverse and vibrant as it is unique. This living aquarium enjoys comfortable year-round temperatures of between 24º and 30º Celsius and lies outside the cyclone belt. Colourful reef fish, octopus, lobster and turtle flash in the shallows surrounding the inner islands, while more adventurous dives offshore include the ‘Ennerdale' wreck and rocks that are the playground for larger groupers and stingrays. By jetting off with British Airways, direct to these paradise islands, you can't get much

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further away from the madding crowd. For today's weary traveller, fatigued from the stresses and strains of an unrelenting modern lifestyle, the Seychelles spa & wellness experience represents a powerful antidote offering soothing treatments designed to melt away the stresses and strains of modern living, energise the weary body and nurture the soul. Whether nestling in dreamy, mountainside pavilions overlooking the ocean or occupying stylish niches within the luxurious cocoons of 5-star resorts, Seychelles' spas offer natural elegance and refinement in pristine surroundings promising the ultimate voyage of personal transformation. There is also great golf available on the islands with a 9-hole course on Mahé and an 18-hole championship course on Praslin offering a sublime golfing experience combined with stunning panoramas of virgin forest and azure ocean. Seychelles has all this to offer and more but perhaps its most enduring attraction is the security it offers and its enviable pace of life amid the tranquillity and multi-racial harmony of the islands. Here, cocooned within the reassuring atmosphere of a large family, there is still ‘time to enjoy' the finer things of life and to appreciate the elements of a truly refreshing Creole culture and enviable island lifestyle.

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For today's weary traveller, fatigued from the stresses and strains of an unrelenting modern lifestyle, the Seychelles spa & wellness experience represents a powerful antidote.

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Seychelles Raffles Seychelles Praslin

The Raffles name is synonymous with luxury, glamour and extraordinary adventure. For over a century, Raffles hotels have been proud to offer their guests the warmest welcome, the richest experiences and the fondest of memories and today the legend continues all over the world. Each hotel is an oasis of calm and charm at the crossroads of a civilisation. Each is a carefully chosen destination in its own right. Each is uniquely, indefinable, sublimely Raffles.

Continuously growing and reaching further corners of the globe, Raffles ensure guests can rest assured that wherever in the world Raffles travel, they will remain distinctly Raffles – infused with the same spirit of adventure, luxury and sublime service. Exciting and enchanting, refreshing and invigorating, Raffles is loved by those with an adventurous spirit and a taste for the very best. The island of Praslin in The Seychelles hosts Raffles’ first ever resort in the Indian Ocean, opened in 2011. Beautifully designed upon a lush hill facing the Indian Ocean, Raffles Seychelles features 86 private villas, some of the most spacious in the archipelago. Each villa offers a private pool and outdoor pavilion to soak up the breathtaking views of the opal-hued ocean, white sandy beach and rolling green hills. An oasis of laidback luxury, Raffles Seychelles instills a sense of wellbeing and creates an atmosphere of blissful relaxation, ideal for the paradise seeker. The resort sits right on the beautiful and renowned Anse Takamaka Beach, 500 meters of pristine white sand line the resort’s beachfront, with dramatic granite formation adding to the picturesque coastline. It only gets better as you can step a few meters from the beach and enjoy two, 45 meters long infinity pool, where paradise seekers can relax, sunbathe and enjoy fresh cocktails. Another amazing attraction to Raffles Seychelles is the signature Raffles Spa, a haven of peace, relaxation and rejuvenation. Steps away from the coastline of Anse Takamaka, amidst stunning surroundings, it’s carefully designed to calm the spirit and awaken the senses. This luxurious spa features 13 treatment pavilions, showcasing the spectacular view of the blue ocean, tropical gardens and dramatic granite boulders. Two spa suites, a first in the Seychelles, are fitted with steam showers, Japanese soaking tubs and observation decks where guests can enjoy stunning vistas in privacy.

A tranquil spa garden makes the ideal spot for pre- and post-spa relaxation. Set among natural rock formations and high above the water, even the journey to the treatment pavilions is an intrinsic part of the Raffles Spa experience. At 1,234 square meters this is the largest spa in the archipelago, and the closest spa to the Indian Ocean. Dining at Raffles Seychelles is an absolute pleasure as you are spoilt with the world of fresh seafood before you! Beach dinners under the stars, cocktails on a rooftop overlooking the ocean, finely crafted sushi and sashimi, contemporary Creole dishes: Raffles Seychelles presents a diverse collection of culinary experiences at its four restaurants; Losean Restaurant, Curieuse Restaurant, The Sushi Room, and Pool Restaurant & Bar.

Losean Restaurant - From breakfast dishes from around the world to an evening menu inspired by the Indian Ocean, Losean offers thoughtfully-prepared and contemporary food throughout the day. Come evening and Losean becomes an elegant dinner setting, with tables both inside and out in the gardens, candlelit and accompanied by the sounds of the sea. Incorporating local ingredients and

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freshly-caught fish, the à la carte menu is a tribute to the best of Creole and Indian Ocean-inspired food; simple and delicious, with a contemporary twist. Curieuse Restaurant - A gastronomic journey tracing through India, China and South East Asia, Curieuse, led by Chef de Cuisine Sunil Dutt, is the Seychelles’ only Asian restaurant. Infused with oriental spice and aromatic ingredients, the menu varies from Thai salads and spicy sour soup to Indian curries and traditional Chinese stirfries. With low-lit outdoor tables dotted amid the leafy Seychellois surroundings, Curieuse is an atmospheric, island-chic setting for an unforgettable dinner.

The Sushi Room - In a location famed for its fresh fish, The Sushi Room at Curieuse celebrates the island’s world-class catch with an exciting menu of sushi and sashimi. The intimate, eight-table room, just off the main Curieuse restaurant, allows guests to witness the chef in action, skillfully preparing each dish moments before it arrives at their table. The evening tasting menu presents an assortment of nigiri, tataki, maki and sashimi for a well-rounded experience of Japanese cuisine, complemented by a variety of sake. Sushi can also be enjoyed à la carte at Pool Restaurant & Bar for lunch. Pool Restaurant & Bar- showcasing fresh, local products and light cuisine, the Pool Restaurant & Bar offers a casual lunch setting, perfect for refueling during a busy day of soaking up the Seychellois sun. Serving salads, sandwiches and well-loved classics from around the world, as well as sushi and sashimi, the menu's diverse options cater to every appetite. Celebrations are also done in exquisite Raffles style in Praslin. When it comes to marking your special occasion, the possibilities are endless at Raffles Seychelles: enjoy a group trip of a lifetime, complete with beach barbecues, cookery classes, excursions to neighboring islands and fishing trips; celebrate birthdays and anniversaries with private dinners under the stars, rooftop cocktails and spa treatments.

Synonymous with romance thanks to its white sands, stunning scenery and beautiful sunsets, the Seychelles is a destination that’s ideal for couples. Allow the Raffles team to help you create the perfect proposal, picture-perfect wedding, unforgettable honeymoon or anniversary. Complete with romantic dinners, couples’ massages and aromatic baths at Raffles Spa, champagne cruises and sundowners on Anse Lazio, one of the world’s best beaches, we can guarantee an unforgettable celebration.

There’s never a dull moment in paradise as this resort comes equipped with an amazing recreation team who knows the island better than anyone! Indoor or out, relaxing or inspiring, for families or couples; Raffles Seychelles has activities which help you feel at one with the natural beauty of the archipelago. With a range of water activities, from snorkeling to boat excursions, to table tennis on the resort or hiking trails for the adventurous, there is something to suit every taste. Fear not the worry of having the kids on vacation as The Sugar Palm Kids Club is a dedicated club catering to toddlers, children, and even teenagers on the resort. Lively, educational and age appropriate activities are coordinated by the Recreation team to ensure that the young ones can enjoy the idyllic paradise of Praslin, as much as adults do.

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When it comes to marking your special occasion, the possibilities are endless at Raffles Seychelles

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Seychelles Bird Island Lodge Bird Island, Seychelles

The Seychelles’ each and every island has it’s own charm but one of the most compelling is Bird Island. The Seychelles is known as one of the most luxurious holiday destinations in the world, but it’s not all about the big expensive hotels. Whilst island hopping around this extraordinary archipelago, you’ll discover that the Seychelles is not only rich in history, in culture and is abundant in nature and the purest of beaches, it also offers an eclectic array of accommodation to visitors, catering for every budget. Bird island offers all the luxury of The Seychelles setting but at a purse-friendly price. Accessible only by plane that is booked directly with Bird island, this destination greets its inbound guests with incredible views- amazing hues of the blue ocean and the whitest sandy beaches, leaving one with a sensation of excitement and also a state of wonder. This northern-most island of the Seychelles archipelago is only 101 hectares; a small island but the experiences guests take from here are far from this. Discover this private island sanctuary fringed by untouched beaches and turquoise clear waters; an island where nature reigns and we are but visitors. Learn of the amazing history of the Giant Land Tortoises that roam the island, snorkel with the remarkable marine life in the surrounding waters, and discover the many species of birds that call Bird Island home. Experience authentic island living in this private nature reserve and bird sanctuary. For couples seeking a romantic relaxing holiday or families who wish to explore natural wonders, this special Seychelles island and small hotel offers the ultimate island getaway.

Simplicity is key on Bird Island. Its 24 bungalows are spacious, each with a sitting area, a large bathroom and a verandah overlooking the natural gardens. The wooden louvered windows allow the cool breeze to flow through the bungalows, ideal for those who prefer to relax inside. A stone’s throw away is the magnificent West Beach, perfect for sunbathing or for a refreshing swim. The main lodge houses the reception, the restaurant, the bar and the lounge areas, offering a pleasant and cool daytime retreat. All meals are served in the open-sided restaurant, overlooking the lawn towards the sea. In keeping with the island’s approach to offering an authentic island experience, the cuisine is fresh and wholesome and is served by the lodge’s 100% Seychellois team. Fish caught from the surrounding waters and organic home grown fruits and vegetables supplement the restaurant’s tasty meals.

A mere stone's throw from West Beach, the relaxed bar and lounge is the obvious place to enjoy an afternoon tea or a pre-dinner cocktail, within earshot of the waves lapping the shore. Let the barman whip you up an enticing cocktail, or why not experience one of the local brews. Let any tensions dissolve here, as you catch up with friends made on the island. For keen pool players or those who just want a bit of fun, a pool table can be found in lounge. At the central lodge, guests will also find the island’s quaint

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little boutique and library. The lodge’s look is typically island style, from its buildings to its furnishings, giving off a relaxed atmosphere encouraging you to feel at home. Bird Island is an eco-lodge and safeguarding the island’s natural heritage is priority. The owners have been working hard to ensure this since the lodge’s opening some 40 years ago. Formerly a coconut plantation, the proprietors turned it into the first eco-lodge in the Seychelles and is to this day the only one of its kind. With an awareness of man’s impact on the environment, the family-run lodge has been determinedly educating its visitors on its philosophy through its green practices; from the solar heated water, to its fresh locally sourced creole dishes and the fact that offshore sport fishing by boat is no longer offered. Exploring the island with the conservation officer, Roby Bresson, will open your eyes to all the natural wonders of the Island and all the conservation work undertaken by its custodians. As you kayak or snorkel in the surrounding waters you may come across the juvenile sea turtles feeding off the sea grass in the shallows or as you go for an afternoon walk, you may stumble upon the intriguing giant tortoises on their own exploits. The most phenomenal of all however, is the sooty tern colony when at its peak. Visitors come from the world over just to witness this spectacle.The northerly location of Bird Island also makes it an ideal ‘port of call’ for many passing birds, a sunny spot away from the winter weather of their homes, much like the human visitors. This allows Bird Island to become a sort of ‘summer home’ for a variety of interesting birds for a period of the year. Bird Island offers guests a place to get away from the busy, fast paced, modern world of today and without phone signals and T.V. connections, they can do just that. Visitors come to immerse themselves into the island, into nature and into the people who live and work here. The wildlife is astonishing, from the birds in their thousands to the sea turtles nesting around the island daily; a humble reminder of just how precious such places are. On Bird Island, guests live, eat and sleep like true islanders. For more information or to make a reservation for either hotel, please visit www.raffles.com www.birdislandseychelles.com

The wildlife is astonishing, from the birds in their thousands to the sea turtles nesting around the island daily; a humble reminder of just how precious such places are.

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Let yovr nexu island be Bird Island... A private nature reserve and bird sanctuary on the northern tip of the Seychelles archipelago. Home to thousands of tropical birds, giant land tortoises, and breathtaking marine life. Not only is Bird Island a heaven for nature lovers, but a true Robinson Crusoe getaway, boasting an eco-lodge with only 24 cottages. For the authentic Seychelles experience in a natural, comfortable and simple setting, and at an affordable rate, join us on Bird Island Seychelles.

Bird Island Lodge, Seychelles | P.O. Box 1419, Victoria, Mahé, Seychelles T:+248 4224925 | F:+248 4225074 | E: reservations@birdislandseychelles.com 120

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While at Raffles, why not visit Seychelles? A blissful oasis, boasting of magnificent views of the Indian Ocean, white sandy beaches and unique discoveries for the paradise seeker. (Use the code ABSOLUTE when booking directly with us or in the ‘Special Requests’ section when booking via our website to receive 5% off.) Please contact the resort for full terms and conditions.

raffles.com/seychelles Reservations: (US and Canada) +1 800 768 9009 (International) +800 1 RAFFLES or +1 248 429 6000

Amberley Castle A jewel in the heart of the Sussex countryside Amberley Castle is a unique and beautifully historic hotel retreat found deep in the heart of the idyllic Sussex countryside. It’s full of medieval heritage, character and charm, with over 900 years of history hidden within 12 acres of picturesque landscaped gardens and scenic lakes. 19 luxurious and classically styled guest rooms await you, boasting original features, filled with beautiful antiques, and designed with sumptuous décor, rich furnishings and decadent fabrics. This stunning hotel has state-of-the-art facilities and an award-winning restaurant, ensuring you will have the perfect break away. Absolute spoke to Piers Vowles, General Manager at Amberley Castle, about inspiration, success and what they are looking forward to in 2018.

What was the inspiration behind Amberley Castle? How has Amberley Castle’s success and popularity How did it all begin? made a positive impact on the surrounding area? Located in the picturesque village of Amberley, The success of the hotel definitely brings attention to Amberley Castle is a unique luxury hotel steeped in the area as a beautiful place to explore – our guests love over 900 years of history. Built in 1103, Amberley to get out on walks and also go to the nearest village, Castle was first used as a hunting lodge and later Amberley, so we believe that the castle being such a transformed into a fortified manor house lived in by a popular venue highlights the West Sussex region as a number of bishops. During the Civil War the property truly amazing place to holiday within the UK. became a royalist stronghold, but with the restoration of the Monarchy in 1660 King Charles II gave the castle How do you stay relevant and current and back to the Bishopric. Several hundred years later, continuously meet your guests needs? having been sold between a number Staying relevant in hospitality of private owners, the castle was simply requires upholding excellent Staying relevant in converted into a hotel in 1989 and levels of customer service, and we hospitality simply requires bought by Andrew Brownsword in this by catering to each guest upholding excellent levels do 2011. It is now part of the Andrew as an individual and finding their of customer service, and specific requirements - we tailor our Brownsword Hotels which was voted AA Hotel Group of the Year we do this by catering to service according to these needs so 2017/2018. guests have the most enjoyable each guest as an individual that stay. In terms of our cuisine offering, and finding their specific our European inspired menu What has contributed to your requirements business success? ensures that guests get a modern I think that the unique historical twist on their historical stay using element of the property is really what makes it a really locally sourced produce to guarantee the finest quality. attractive prospect for guests, who can step back in Guests dine in our stunning 12th century dining room time within the castle walls whilst getting the highest which makes an evening meal extra special! quality service, facilities and cuisine. Each of the rooms is luxuriously appointed with contemporary What's the unique selling point for Amberley bathrooms, blending medieval architecture with Castle? modern comforts, design and cuisine, cooked to the The property itself is certainly the selling point for highest standards. Amberley Castle, and many people love the opportunity to stay in a hotel so rich in heritage. Every element How has social media contributed to the success of from the fine fabrics to the roaring open fires and four Amberley Castle? poster beds compliments the unique character of the We use social media as a platform collectively with the property - two bedrooms even have private access to other Andrew Brownsword Hotels on our channel the castle’s portcullis and its machinery! Guests are not (@brownswordhotels) and this shows guests the range confined to the castle and are encouraged to explore of properties that are located in various beautiful the area, and our professional standard 18-hole putting destinations in the UK. Social media sites such as golf course and alfresco afternoon tea mean visitors can Instagram have certainly given us a new platform to enjoy the beautiful 12-acre gardens that surround the showcase the impressive appearance of the hotel and property. Local activities also include archery, falconry, offers a place for guests to share their experiences horse riding and hot air ballooning so there really is which is great. something for everybody to enjoy.

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Do you have any events coming up in 2018 that you are particularly excited about? From May to September we are running history tours at various dates with local historian, Keith McKenna, who will guide guests around the glorious landscaped gardens and discuss the history behind the castle walls and magnificent portcullis. Paired with the option of lunch or champagne afternoon tea at the hotel, this will give visitors the opportunity to really enhance their experience of the property and learn about the centuries of history that have made the castle what it is today. How would you describe Amberley Castle to someone who has never visited? The unique hotel is a wonderful step back in time, where the distinct historic charm of the castle is preserved and partnered with the luxury modern amenities that will make a staycation thoroughly appealing. Guests truly are able to experience a staying in a real castle!

celebrate with your guests in an elaborate marquee on the lawns, your wedding photos will certainly look outstanding in this romantic location with back-drops of original medieval stonework, beautiful décor and landscaped gardens. This wonderful setting even has its own resident peacock roaming through the grounds!

Amberley Castle is hosting a range of wedding events where you can meet the event team, sample champagne and canapes and take a tour of this historic building. Wedding open evenings are taking place throughout the year giving you the perfect chance explore Amberley Castle to decide if this is the wedding location for you.

The unique hotel is a wonderful step back in time, where the distinct historic charm of the castle is preserved and partnered with the luxury modern amenities.

Amberley Castle has a host of exciting seasonal offers for the coming months. Here are two of Absolutes favourites….. • The luxurious Spring Blooms package is great value from £268 and offers guests an overnight stay with champagne on arrival, a five-course dinner for two, and a full English breakfast. • The Taste of Amberley Castle offer treats you to a sumptuous afternoon tea on arrival, pre-dinner champagne, followed by a seven-course tasting menu and one-night accommodation with breakfast from £380. Getting married this year? Then Amberley Castle is a perfectly magical place for your special day. Whether you choose to dine in one of the stunning rooms or

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Dine in Amberley Castles awardwinning restaurant which has a range of menus including a sumptuous Sunday lunch menu and a five-course tasting menu, with seasonal dishes using fresh local ingredients.

Why not relax in the Great Room or on the beautiful terrace during warm summer months for Afternoon Tea from £30 per person or the Champagne Afternoon Tea from £45.50.

The private dining spaces are a superb idea for an intimate celebration and Amberley Castle has amazing menu options to suit the size of your party and budget. The Great Room can accommodate up to 40 guests, the King Charles Room seats up to 12, and the Green Room can host 14 guests. All the rooms are elegant spaces adorned with beautiful décor, tapestries, suits of armour and open fireplaces available to hire from £200. Amberley Castle Church Street, Amberley, West Sussex, BN18 9LT 01798 831 992 www.amberleycastle.co.uk Charlie McBrien

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Enjoy a 7&7

The No.7 bus to the Marina runs day and night Join your friends for a tipple or two and enjoy the bars & restaurants, casino, cinema and more. For more information, visit www.buses.co.uk

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Walk in Wardrobe Retro Daisy Worthing

Absolute's Kasia goes on a fashion exploration across Sussex and is nicely impressed by the creative retail minds.

Hove & Shoreham-by-Sea

“

From vintage to modern, boy have you got a choice! I love the eclectic and varied mix of products chosen by the amazing independent boutique owners. Think twice before you hit the high street and support your local Sussex trade."

Kasia X

All you need to dazzle up your elegant and evening wardrobe.

Mottoo

Brighton

A lovely shop of vintage glamour with a modern twist for the ultra pin-up girl.

Sussex fashion

A long established designer labels' shop for men and women.

Fanny Adams Boutique Arundel

An eclectic mix of international and local labels.

On Trend Boutique Eastbourne

A family run independent boutique with modern trends and UK labels.

Rock Lobster Boutique Shoreham-by-Sea 128

New in - Paul Smith Trainers 12 Duke Street Brighton

Darcey Sussex Boutique Lewis

Number 68 Steyning

An independent womenswear boutique selling gorgeous and carefully selected clothing and accessories, housed in a beamed 16th century building.

A flair of English, Italian and French style.

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A timeless mix of clothes and accessories that work in harmony for the modern woman.

Compiled by KASIA KASH

Winter-cabin couture with a street style spin.

N°21, FarFetch, £368

Inspired by the weather, here are some stellar ideas for your winter wardrobe collection. Wrap up and enjoy the snug...

Kasia X Toms oots, toms.co.uk, £67

This bag just has to be stroked. Your substitute handheld pet. Plush and chic.

BEAUTIFUL

Winter Dress for the 'beast from the east'

Nicopanda Handbag, £305

Head to toe No chill will get through this stylish, quilted puffa coat!

Hats off!

Compiled by Kasia Kash at stylingagency.co.uk / follow fb @kasiakashstyle

Fuzzy statement in a hyper-chic Crimson jumper. Luscious and snugly. Pair up with skinny jeans for that ultimate nonchalant look.

Thom Browne Jacket, 24serves.com, £3240

Barts Hat, Snow + Rock, £35

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ABSOLUTEHOMES ISSUE 13 - BRIGHTON SEAFRONT - IMAGE BY DAVID FREEMAN

HOMES | INTERIORS | PROPERTY | INVESTMENT | DEVELOPMENT

03-C EIDC_Silhou_DPS 5/17/17 11:33 AM Page 2

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INTRODUCTION SUSSEX PROPERTY MARKET OVERVIEW John Robinson

s a Sussex property developer, I often get asked, ‘So what is happening with the Sussex property market’ and the answer is not straight forward. It seems to be a game of bluff between vendors and buyers; with who will out ‘poker face’ the other regarding price. Much of central Sussex and Brighton were tipped, pre-Brexit as the next high growth areas outside of London. Indeed, Brighton has seen the second highest price gains for all areas in the UK of 11% in 2017, alongside Bournemouth, accordingly to the Halifax. The reality is that the market is still slow, but if a property is priced sensibly and marketed correctly it will sell. Estate agents are keen to get more instructions and are hungry for stock of certain types of property, particularly family homes. Every estate agent has a different story, but what seems to be consistent; after a very subdued final quarter of last year things seem to be moving again this year with more activity in the property market. The government have removed stamp duties for first time buyers up to £300,000, which has helped stimulate the lower sectors of the market, middle sectors are selling if the home owners price sensibly and upper sector are still slow. The continued ‘help to buy’ scheme has increased activity in the new housing sector and is an important part of the house builders’ armoury to sell new property into the market. But, whilst the government gives with one hand, they are sure to take with the other. Landlords will be seeing taxation hikes really bite this financial year after only being able to offset 50% of their mortgage interest against profit. To make things even worse for the buy to let investor, any mortgage interest deductions will

be phased to only 20% by 2020. This will mean many landlords will be moved from basic to higher rate tax bands, seeing those currently making a small profit being pushed into the red. This coupled with the additional 3% stamp duty surcharge on second properties, which came into force last year, has been a massive blow to landlords with very little new activity in the buy to let sector. Many landlords are looking to reduce their stock and properties are slowly being sold. The knock-on effect of this has inevitably lead to a lack of rental stock with tax hikes being passed on through rent increases to the end customer.

Many homeowners are choosing to renovate or extend their existing property, rather than selling and buying something bigger.

With market stagnation, you would imagine it to be boom times for property developers locating new opportunities. Well as always, the lack of general stock on the market means that life is also hard for the humble property developer. Potential new development opportunities are out there, but developers have to work extremely hard and think laterally to acquire new sites. As well as maintaining close relationships with your local hard-working estate agent, keeping a keen eye when you are out and about can also pay dividends. On larger scale developments in brown field and green field sites, activity is increasing with quite substantial housing schemes gaining planning permission and being built across Sussex, much to local

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resident’s frustration. Often the significant increase in housing is not coupled with investment in local infrastructure, such as improvements to the road network, schools and doctor’s surgeries, this is where local friction occurs. The push on new build property is being forced through at Governmental level, due to the chronic lack of housing stock in areas of high demand such as the south east. However, the reality of planning is still an absolute minefield at local level with planning requirements being both complex, hugely expensive and time consuming to achieve. Many people have approached me with the question, ‘What can I do with a potential plot of land or a building that may have development potential’. One possibility it to hire a local architect and planning advisor, but this process can get very expensive, very quickly. Another alternative is to partner with a local property developer that will understand the potential of the plot and what could be realistically achieved. At the Brunswick Chase Group, we are adept at working with land and home owners to maximise the potential of their site. The Brunswick Chase Group will take on the financial responsibility and time-consuming process to look at a plot and work with a team of local professionals to secure the optimum and viable planning permission for the site, whilst offering the seller the best price, by splitting planning gain when planning is achieved. So, interesting times lay ahead, but one thing is for sure, the love of home ownership in Sussex will continue. John Robinson Commercial Director Brunswick Chase Group john@brunswickchasegroup.co.uk

www.bo-sussex.co.uk

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C A S A MORA DA FO R S A L E 5 BED ROOM HOU S E WIT H S E PAR AT E F L AT C H A R LOTTE STREET - KEMP TOWN £1,500,000

This five storey Victorian house, moments from the sea, is available to buy. Expertly renovated by RIBA award winners Baobab Developments, this is a stylish, high tech yet comfortable family home with five double bedrooms, sea views from the west balcony, a private courtyard, spacious sun terrace and a self- contained one bedroom apartment, perfect for rental, AirBNB or granny annex. 3085 sqft . 5 double bedrooms . 2 receptions . sun terrace . self contained 1 bedroom apartment . sea facing balcony . mural by ART+BELIEVE . gaggenau appliances . control4 home control and audiovisual system . lutron lighting control . marble worktop . dinesen flooring . ultra high specification

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We are Brighton based boutique developers, passionate about building incredible houses that enhance the lives of the people fortunate enough to live in them. We won our first RIBA award in 2017. We intend on winning many more. It is our firm conviction that good houses improve lives and this guides all that we do. Design drives decisions. We use renowned architects, we commission designers, be they lighting, kitchen, bathroom, interior, landscape, home automation, and it is this use of experts that allows us to concentrate on delivering the key components of ever y Baobab house – design, detail, light, space.

We recognise that many people would not consider a newly built property: this stems from the soulless, profit driven finish associated with so many developers, as well as the complete absence of imagination and consideration in the design. We want to buck that trend. We want to create properties, at all levels of size and budget, that are appropriate to the way people live in the 21st centur y. Well designed properties, both in functionality as well as aesthetics, help us lead better and more fulfilling lives. We, as developers, want to build houses that do this.

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Videotree Videotree Create The World’s Leading Water-proof and Future-proof Televisions

atch your favourite programmes no matter where you are in or outside your house with Videotree’s world-first waterproof and weather proof Televisions. Television technology has never been so versatile, allowing you to be entertained in any environment on a screen so sleek that is as much a work of art as it is state-of-the-art. Whether you want to enjoy a blockbuster in the bath, ‘Game of Thrones’ in the garden or a soap in the spa, Videotree’s range of expertly designed televisions have the answer. Videotree are the leading pioneers in waterproof television technology and over the past 15 years have developed a breathtaking range of quality, luxurious waterproof, mirror and outdoor televisions that are guaranteed to give any crib the ultimate wow factor.

The World’s First Lifestyle Waterproof Televisions

Videotree’s leading range of waterproof televisions provides ultimate state-of-the-art entertainment in a multitude of environments. Add that VIP vibe to your bathroom, en-suite, pool area or even spa and unwind whilst enjoying your favourite television programmes on a high-end contemporary glass styled screen. Made with elegance in mind, each television is as beautiful to look at as it is ground breaking in design.

Videotree waterproof televisions are available in a variety of opulent colours and can easily be mounted either on your wall or installed within the wall itself for a fully flush ‘frameless’ finish anywhere within your home. Each comes complete with an IP66 rating to provide complete protection against moisture and dust and is manufactured with the latest 3D technology software. Industrial 1080p, Full HD and 4K Ultra HD display options are available.

Ensure you have no reason to leave the tub by switching channels mid soak using the sleek waterproof remote control. Ensure you have no reason to leave the tub by switching channels mid soak using the sleek waterproof remote control. The standard waterproof in and on wall 27” in and on wall television can be supplied with built-in integrated waterproof speakers, plus separate wall/ceiling mount speakers are available with Digital Audio Quality. Enjoy versatility and multi connectivity with HDMI, composite, component and VGA inputs and add that extra cinema-style quality by choosing additional in wall speakers that fit fully flush to most surfaces to amplify your television audio.

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Videotree Designed and built in the UK, all Videotree televisions are manufactured to an IP66 rating – fully protected against moisture and dust for installation in any environment. Designed using the latest 3D technology, each Videotree television is carefully built to exacting standards by a team of highly-skilled technicians to integrate the latest television technology into a sleek, slim line television module. All products come complete with quick and easy installation, a DVB-T2, IPTV and global signal compatibility and two year manufacturers guarantee.

Add a spark of glamour to your house by installing one of Videotree’s newest range of Mirror Televisions. These beautiful centrepieces pose as an elegant mirror whilst moonlighting as a hi-tech television when switched on. Boasting stunning visual imagery and a sleek and subtle contemporary design, this range offers the most sophisticated mirror televisions on the market.

Whether you are looking for an opulent dressing table mirror, a small vanity bathroom mirror, a focal point framed mirror in your dining room or a larger commercial LED panels the mirrored screens can be made to any size, without compromising on picture quality. Their high-brightness, high-contrast screens will display your favourite channels in all their technicolour glory. Unlike your average television, Videotree Mirror televisions are completely borderless, meaning you don’t have the give-away rim around the screen edge. This creates the ultimate mirror illusion, ensuring a crisp reflection when the screen is turned off and incomparable clarity when on. Meeting their customers high standards and expectations of interior design, Videotree offer a range of bespoke finishes, including behind-glass options for televisions hidden beneath glass walls and glass kitchen splashbacks.

Standard-sized televisions are supplied with a splashproof remote control for easy and versatile channel hopping and larger televisions are provided with a fully waterproof remote control. Ideal for commercial digital signage, Videotree’s use of high contrast industrial panels makes them a low-cost option for a wide range of environments including marine, hospitality, leisure and health resorts. With optional IP connectivity, each mirror television can link to new or existing services. All models are available with additional external speakers and hidden glass exciters can be used on bespoke Mirror TVs where the glass is larger than the display. With a range of finishes, framing, mounting, IPTV connectivity and speaker options, Videotree mirror televisions are as unique as their owners.

Videotree Company Profile

Award Winning Titan Outdoor Televisions Take entertainment outside with Videotree’s elegantly designed, slim line outdoor televisions. Perfect for creating a cuttingedge garden or al fresco seating area, the outdoor television range boasts a multitude of features including a toughened glass, double-coated, anti-reflective, high brightness screen for clear viewing in any condition and an IP66 rating to provide the ultimate protection against dust, moisture and insects. Designed to appear fully integrated into its surroundings, each television measures as little as 42mm in depth, ensuring a sleek and flush finish. Regardless of the setting, Videotree’s outdoor televisions can be custom designed, with bespoke framing and installation options as well as optional metal frames for free standing.

Come sunshine or rain, Videotree’s use of super high bright industrial panels means they will continue to impress, with a patented silent cooling system for those summer days and an optional internal heating system for when the frost sets in. Videotree Outdoor televisions are not only suitable for gardens and pool areas, they can also provide stylish digital signage for pubs, bars and restaurants whilst keeping guests entertained at a range of outdoor events including weddings, parties and concerts. Each television is supplied with a wide range of inputs including HDMI, PC, Component, RGB, RS232 and IR in and out - compatible with all leading home and professional integration systems.

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Designed and manufactured in England by an expert team of technical and design specialists, Videotree’s roots go back to 1990, when concept Designer and Founder Ian Rees set out aiming of meet a growing rise in demand for access to television and internet services outside of the living room. Previously Ian had been working in Africa for Tiny Rowlands installing large 6m satellite dishes for hotels. At the time he was asked to install a speaker in the bathroom and it always stuck in his mind how products should be made that are bespoke to the wet room environment. A few years on, Ian created the first fully waterproof HD LED television, suiting for all environments in the home, healthcare, leisure and hospitality industries and embarked on an incredible journey of innovation and technological mastery. It was in 2005 when the ‘Videotree’ name itself was born. At that time the main business was installing TV systems and data networks for the stock exchange and financial institutes in London – years before multiple TV’s were common place on the desktop. Ian and his team created a Tree of TV’s on a stand, giving birth to the name ‘Videotree’. Technology doesn’t stand still and through dedication to an unrelenting process of research, review and innovation, Videotree ensure the technological ingenuity behind the brand stands at the leading edge of their industry.

This thirst for innovation and staying ahead of the game led to the development of a range of revolutionary IP-enabled televisions for multi-room environments (the first of their kind), a range of robust yet elegant outdoor

televisions and a range of bespoke mirror televisions with innovative design features and luxurious finishes - all whilst putting perfected performance first.

Not only did Videotree revolutionise the impact of TVs on multi-room environments with IP-enabled televisions, they incorporated, and continue to integrate, inventive design features that put performance perfection first. The benchmarked standards they have set along the way continue to inspire those who strive to emulate their presence in this dynamic and fast-paced industry.

Videotree strive to provide the highest standards of customer service throughout each client’s journey - from the initial vision, right through to the design and installation - ensuring that each customer is completely satisfied with every part of the process. This superior level of service has attracted an array of international clients, installing waterproof, mirror and outdoor televisions into homes and businesses across France, Dubai, Russia, Germany, Spain and the USA to name a few.

Based in Surrey, Videotree are proud to be a member of the Made in Britain campaign and bear the marque on all of their products. /Videotree www.videotree.com

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Simon Dixon Artist

On May 11th, Hotel Pelirocco hosted a private view to launch an exhibition of work from Brighton artist Simon Dixon. The wet and humid weather didn’t deter a packed throng from celebrating the work of the much-loved artist who passed away in February this year.

Striking, vibrant and colourful, Dixon’s prints and paintings of 20th century music icons included Paul Weller, Elvis Presley, John Lydon, Debbie Harry, Iggy Pop, Joe Strummer, Lemmy and Poison Ivy from The Cramps – a fitting selection for ‘England’s most rock & roll hotel’.

Amongst the diverse selection of guests were Dada Art Projects supremo Stefania Dal Ferro, City Reads founder Sarah Hutchings, rockabilly band The Hillmans and fellow Brighton-based artists Jim Sanders, Seiko Kato, Paul Ostrer and Sarah Shaw. Also in attendance were members of Simon’s family including his brother Sam, who organised the event with fellow ‘Team Dixon’ members Jo Whitley and Séan Baldwin. “We feel that the Pelirocco, with its unique style and appreciation of great music, is the ideal venue to display Simon’s iconic work,” says Jo. “It was always hoped that a Dixon exhibition would occur here during Simon’s lifetime but sadly it never transpired. So it’s important at

this particular point in time for friends and family to be able to raise a glass and honour his work in this very special location.” Sam says, “Simon was a DJ back in the 90s, playing ska and R & B classics at the Catfish Club. Music and pop culture were huge influences on his output so it makes perfect sense to be here.”

“It’s great to see so many different types here too,” adds Séan. “Simon was a renowned connector of people from across a broad spectrum. He was very much at the hub of the local creative scene but he never liked to be the centre of attention. He was a humble man who took his work very seriously and never compromised his vision, even when taking on private commissions. If he wasn’t inspired by the subject then it was off the cards, simple as that.” Dixon’s work not only featured musicians but was also collected by some, including Shaun

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Ryder, Sharleen Spiteri and Dougie Payne from Travis. Before he was struck by illness in his 20s, Simon was a talented footballer and his portrait of Dick Knight features on the cover of the Brighton & Hove Albion life president’s autobiography, and is currently hanging In Dick’s Bar at the Amex stadium.

In accordance with Dixon’s wishes, his limited edition pictures will continue to reach their audience. The prints are lovingly produced to the highest possible standard by Fine Art Guild accredited Eye 4 Colour Printmakers, based in Brighton. In order for the work to be authenticated, the prints will feature a DIXON embossed stamp as well as being titled and numbered. They can be purchased via the website below. The exhibition runs until July 5th where visitors are welcome to come and view the art. www.simondixon.net

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Zemi Aria – Beautiful Sound, Artfully Designed

ZEMI Aria is the creation of Italian artisan Francesco Pellisari www.nacsound.com and renowned European artist and industrial designer Ron Arad www.ronarad.co.uk. Their collaborative effort has produced a music system that sounds as stunning as it looks. The sound is powerful and precise and ZEMI’s high gloss spherical shape is the perfect complement to a well-designed interior.

www.zemiaria.com

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Flat SCREEN Brianne Entertainment Unit, Orren Ellis, £2699

Felino TV Cabinet, Barker and Stonehouse, £2579

TVs have gone through a significant technological transformation. They are multi-functional and look the business too. They are not just dust collectors. It is often hard to find a home for them, and their cabling, hence investing in a nicely designed cabinet can add value to your interior style.

Industrial aesthetic is trending in lighting to my liking and taste. They can be surprisingly effective even in a small space.

Daiquiri Grande TV Stand, Castelton Home, £209

Brooklyn Table Lamp, £38

Tanner Black Table Lamp, Dunelm, £22

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John Lewis Keegan Task Lamp, Satin Brass,£55

Numbers Cushion Collection, Gironeshome.com Large 3D Wall Stickers Clock Numbers Letters, ebay.com

“ These monochrome artefacts make fabulous decorating motifs around the home, without being overwhelming" Number Lights, Up In Lights, £5.99

HOME COMFORT Compiled by Kasia | The Styling Agency

the numbers game What's your lucky number? Numerical graphic design is now popular in modern interiors. The power of numbers through typography makes a striking statement in your space. Be inspired. High five!

Kasia X

A picture says a thousand words ... This fantastic numerical wall art is by Rowdy Space, a design house that specializes in sophisticated modern graphic prints, canvas and wall art. visit fb @rowdy.space

Cuckfield Bathrooms

Bathrooms by Design Cuckfield Bathrooms is located in the heart of the village and has been for the past 7 years. Having initially opened a modest sized showroom in 2011, high demands from the Sussex and South East marketplace called for expansion, seeing the opening of the impressive premises we see today at the Clockhouse on the High Street.

his move was a clear indication of the owners Jobe and Jim’s success thus far and there are clear reasons for this well deserved

accreditation. Their forté lies in their breadth of experience, their range of products and the

bespoke services they offer their clients, such as

a free of charge 3D design service and pre-order site visits.

The bathroom design market in Sussex is

healthy and growing, but Cuckfield Bathrooms

also work with property developers, architects and interior designers in London; so they

are well placed to inform the local market on developing design and product innovations.

Cuckfield Bathrooms rely heavily on excellent customer service and pride themselves on

there always being someone at the end of the

phone or an email, ready to meet their client’s

demands. They are predominantly a design and supply company using installers who are top of

their game. The process often begins by creating a 3D CAD drawing from either a site visit or

architects plans so the client can envisage their

dream bathroom. All designers are trained in 3D

CAD (computer aided design) with Virtual Worlds software.

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The process often begins by creating a 3D CAD drawing from either a site visit or architects plans so the client can envisage their dream bathroom. All designers are trained in 3D CAD (computer aided design) with Virtual Worlds software. Working from either Architects plans or a site visit, they input the measurements into their software and create the walls, windows and doors for your room. From here, the designer can input scaled products from their many bathroom suppliers to draw up an idea of how the room will look. Various sizes and finishes can be determined as well as tiling patterns so you can envisage your future bathroom. Once this is complete, they email a document showing the design with some various angles or get you to go to the showrooms itself and go through the designs together. 3D designing is vital to make sure everything fits into the room to avoid mistakes and ensure a smoother process. It is also very handy for your installer to have a set of drawings whilst he gets to work! Cuckfield Bathrooms have a wide and impressive range of displays over two floors and have access to almost every supplier to give the customer the widest range to find exactly what they want. By building close relationships with suppliers, including lighting, tiling, general purpose radiators and underfloor heating, the team pride themselves on having extensive product knowledge, competitive rates and a seamless supply process.

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Cuckfield Bathrooms

Bathrooms by Design Cuckfield Bathrooms have area brand exclusivity to many top drawer brands such as Samuel Heath (British made high end traditional taps and showers), Dornbracht (high end German contemporary taps and showers), Porter Vanities and Artelinea (Italian designed and made glass front contemporary vanity units). For those who relish the charms of a more traditional bathroom, suppliers such as William Holland (beautiful hand finished traditional freestanding baths) and Thomas Crapper (the original classic water closet) come highly recommended.

Suppliers are chosen from all around the globe, all selected for their excellence in craftsmanship, functionality and design. From Spain come Inbani (modular bespoke furniture in almost any finish), from America comes Graff (high spec finish taps and showers) and from our friends across the Channel comes THG Paris (French made and designed very high end taps and showers, using various French crystal and a wide range of finishes).

Cuckfield Bathrooms cater for all budgets and take joy in achieving the look you want within that budget. Once an order has been confirmed, they will store it until you need it delivered to site. The company uses a local family run warehouse in Gatwick and often do a'first fix' and a 'second fix' delivery free of charge. They also work with some of the best installers in Sussex. These guys only install bathrooms meaning their attention to detail is second to none. They can also do everything themselves including electrics and tiling which results in a quicker turnaround. They are not employed by Cuckfield Bathrooms and therefore will do a site visit and give you their own price - that way there are no hidden charges on top and you get the best price! "Cuckfield bathrooms are my 'go to' bathroom supplier when looking for what's on trend in bathrooms. Their showroom is beautiful, easily accessible and well laid out. Jim & Jobe are friendly and efficient and on hand with great advice when required. It's good to be able to purchase all bathroom products from one supplier, from top end for a sensational ensuite to standard for a simple downstairs loo. Thanks Jim & Jobe." Helen Mullany of Helen Mullany Interiors

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Cuckfield Bathrooms cater for all budgets and take joy in achieving the look you want within that budget. Once an order has been confirmed, they will store it until you need it delivered to site.

Cuckfield Bathrooms, The Clockhouse, High Street, Cuckfield, West Sussex RH17 5JX Email jobe@cuckfieldbathrooms.co.uk Tel 01444 414888 www.cuckfieldbathrooms.co.uk

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We find you the very best buyers and tenants from across the globe…

Locally Nationally & Internationally With a network of 54 country branches, 33 within London and 7,000 international partner offices, call us today on 01273 796157 to understand how we can help you.

Hamptons Brighton & Hove 82 Church Road, Hove, East Sussex BN3 2EB Sales. 01273 796157 hove@hamptons-int.com Lettings. 01273 796159 brightonandhovelettings@hamptons-int.com hamptons.co.uk Please dial in full. If you have already appointed another agent, you may be subject to a restrictive contract.

CuckfieldBathrooms The Clockhouse, High Street RH17 5JX • Telephone: 01444 414 888

‘Strato’ in Wild Oak by InBani Strato an extensive modular program of minimalist shapes, the Strato Collection, allows for the adaptation of the furniture to fit each professional project. The collection is their most versatile and practical.

New display in shop

www.cuckfieldbathrooms.co.uk

Award Winning Waterproof And Mirror Televisions

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Brighton Visitor is Brighton & Sussex’s ONLY tourism-specific magazine. Packed with great ideas of things to see and do in Brighton & Hove and within Sussex, this free glossy magazine covers everything from shopping, food & drink, kids, attractions, What’s On & more. Brighton Visitor is picked up by both locals and visitors and is published quarterly throughout the year with a total annual print run of 150,000 copies.

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DAVID FREEMAN Photography feature SUSSEX & BEYOND davidfreemanphotographic.co.uk

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THE

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THE UK’S ONLY FULL MOTION F1 SIMULATION VENUE Lets Race is the UK’s ﬁrst and most advanced full motion Formula 1 simulator centre. Combining virtual racing with reality, our 10 networked sims offer speeds of up to 200mph creating an unforgettable driving experience that you can’t find anywhere else. It’s the closest you can get to racing an F1 car, so unleash the driver within, book today and follow in the footsteps of your racing heroes.

DID YOU KNOW... For every practise session booked and taken during March we will be donating £1 to Sport Relief. What’s more, everyone that books will also be entered into a prize draw to WIN a day’s hire of a Tesla car and £100 to spend at Lets Race and/or Lets Golf and Lets Explore.* *T&Cs apply.

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A Creative Co-Working Space Where Brighton Businesses Can Thrive Barclays Brighton Eagle Lab on Preston Road is far from just being a co-working space. As well as desk and office rental, there’s also a Maker Space (with laser cutter, 3D printing, a tool room and more!) and support from local mentors. But above all of that, it’s a hub for connecting likeminded people who want to make their business dreams a reality and is the perfect home for Absolute Magazine, as our writer Shelley Welti explains…

righton is officially the UK’s most entrepreneurial city, according to recent research carried out by Instant Offices. But of course, living and working in Brighton, this doesn’t surprise us at all. The city is full of talented creatives and savvy businessminded residents, all doing things their way. However, as we’re sure many business owners will tell you; starting, growing and keeping your business going can be hard work. There’s so much to consider and keep on top of – no matter how many business handbooks, inspiring events or coaching sessions you have, it’s a constant learning curve.

Over the last few years, though, co-working spaces have been popping up across the country to bring together businesses that otherwise would struggle to afford to rent premium city centre office space or sole traders that otherwise would be working (and perhaps feeling isolated) at home. These spaces aim to give local businesses a helpful community of other people who understand the highs (and sometimes, lows) of being your own boss and inspire them to develop their business. Once such space that does this – and more – in Brighton, is the Barclays Eagle Lab, just off London Road in the centre of the city. One of twelve Eagle Labs in the UK, it was created to “support businesses to embrace new and emerging technologies critical to the success of businesses in the UK,” as well as seeing

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Barclays invest into the future of the London Road area.

“Eagle Labs are a community resource available for everybody,” Barclays explain. “Whether you’re an inventor, an innovator or a mentor, our spaces are conducive to nurturing and growing your idea with support from Barclays and our network. From accelerating UK business to enabling collaborative innovation and digital empowerment for all, our Labs are a space to create, innovate and grow.”

The Brighton Eagle Lab offers a variety of coworking desks and office options, depending on your needs, along with high speed Wi-Fi, refreshments, access to digital fabrication equipment, a fully kitted Maker Space and events space and mentor advice, from as little as £51.00 per month (for 30 hours). With many creative businesses (including illustrators, designers and makers) calling the Eagle Lab home, the Maker Space and equipment – such as a 3D printer, laser cutter, vinyl cutter, t-shirt and mug press and large format printing, plus a tool room – is unsurprisingly popular. The space, which can be pre-booked, is the perfect place to make your ideas come to life with prototyping and design experts, along with the newest technology at hand. And with a full set of woodworking and digital fabrication equipment, all your creative needs are covered.

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While there’s plenty of useful tools for craftbased businesses, one of the most vital things the space offers all businesses is the connections with others. This doesn’t just mean for collaborations on future projects and service-swaps, but also for meeting likeminded people who understand the trials and tribulations of running your own company. As well as the progressive community, the Lab also has mentors to offer advice and encourage you to progress your business in the right direction for you. There’s also regular networking events to attend too – after all, we’ve all heard the saying it’s not what you know, it’s who.

If you struggle getting to grips with technology, the Brighton Eagle Lab has technician support from an onsite team, so you’re in good hands and can get any queries sorted promptly. As one of their main aims when creating the Lab, the team are passionate about getting businesses clued up to technology that can help their companies to develop – so as ever-changing technology advances, there’s people on-hand to help. If you’re looking for a co-working space where you can create, be innovative and grow your business, look no further than the Barclays Eagle Lab. Find Barclays Brighton Eagle Lab at 1 Preston Road, Brighton, BN1 4QE. www.labs.uk.barclays/locations/brighton

As one of their main aims when creating the Lab, the team are passionate about getting businesses clued up to technology that can help their companies to develop.

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Registered Charity No. 1108777 Charitable Company No. 5300691

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS

OF SAVING LIVES AND SUPPORTING VULNERABLE INDIVIDUALS IN BRIGHTON & HOVE

WHAT AN INCREDIBLE JOURNEY What an incredible journey we have had these past 20 years! As a local charity our focus has always been on the City and helping those most in need living in Brighton & Hove; whether that be young people in schools, members of the homeless community living on the streets or women facing times of crisis. We have had an ever increasing passion to impact this City, to see all members of our community thriving and living life to the full. We would like to thank everyone that has partnered with us, supported and worked alongside us over the years. Together we can transform the City even further- let’s make our City the best it can be! Paul Young, Founder.

CAN YOU HELP US AS WE CONTINUE TO HELP HUNDREDS AROUND THE CITY? Make a donation www.offthefence.org.uk/get-involved/donate

Buy a vital item for one of our projects www.amazon.co.uk/gp/registry/wishlist/34WQ87NMEYW51

Visit our just giving page www.justgiving.com/OTFT

Raise £ for us Whether you want to run, jump, dance, host a sale or take part in a challenge to raise money for our ongoing work, we’d love to hear from you. a

Get in touch at fundraising@offthefence.org.uk.

RESISTING POVERTY. EMPOWERING PEOPLE. RESTORING HOPE To find out more visit:

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/OTFbrighton

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