Absolute Brighton March 2012 by Maureen Shine

ABSOLUTE BRIGHTON . ISSUE 86 . MARCH 2012

ISSUE 86 . MARCH 2012

MUMMY YOU’RE THE BEST MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS

LET THE SUNSHINE IN www.absolutebrighton.tv

STYLISH CONSERVATORIES

EGG-STATIC

EASTER PICKINGS FOR THE HOME

THE CITY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

FASHION . PROPERTY . TRAVEL . BEAUTY . EDUCATION . ART . FACES & PLACES B0312_001 COVER MAR.indd 1

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CONTENTS

brighton

March 2012 . Issue 86

www.absolutebrighton.tv Download the Absolute Brighton app free from itunes Cover shot by Paul Williams Model: Shumi from Nevs

ABSOLUTE FEATURES 10 Yellow Fever Exciting style in mustard and saffron 34 Just For You, Mum Special gifts for the most important lady in your life 36 Winning Stresk Neil Pardo, the Director of Rendezvous on the future of the casino ABSOLUTE REGULARS 9 Editor’s Letter 16 Absolute Fashionista Natalie Wileman dresses for the races... 18 Lace be a Lady The Kate Middleton effect on fashion 19 That Special Day Katie Tamswell of Walk in Wardrobe loves helping girls to find the perfect prom dress 20 Hell for Leather The timeless appeal of leather for men 24 Absolute Socialite Diary Peter Jarrette shares a page from his diary 24 What’s going on... Observations by Mo Hunter-Shine 25 Celebrity Spotlight 26 March Madness Five things to cheer you this month 46 Absolute News 50 Absolute Faces and Places 58 Absolute Local History The blossoming of Brighton Marina 61 Absolute Whats On 64 Absolute Motoring 66 Absolute Business 74 Absolute Distribution

34 54 58

ABSOLUTE INTERIORS 28 Let the Sunshine In Five steps to the perfect conservatory 30 Blind Faith Fitting out that new conservatory with Sussex Blinds 32 Egg-static Fun accessories for the home, for spring and Easter ABSOLUTE HEALTH AND BEAUTY 36 Be Immune Sheryl Waters discusses how nature can build up your immune system 38 Absolute Life Coaching 39 Absolute Dental Column 40 Absolute Make-up Column Celebrity make-up artist Jeni Dodson on how to get those baby doll eyes 42 Skin Deep Luxurious products to pamper your skin 44 Absolute Hair with Mark Woolley

ABSOLUTE FOOD AND DRINK 49 Absolute Restaurant Listings 52 Bohemia An exciting new café and late lounge in The Lanes 54 All Saints Special recipes for St Davids Day and St Patricks Day ABSOLUTE

B0312_007 Contents MAR12.indd 1

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RW_A4_1_11_11_v4:Layout 1 15/11/2011 12:53 Page 1

OAK & WALNUT FLOORING

OAK FRAMED BUILDINGS

JOINERY

www.roundwood.com Tel: 01435 867 072 Round Wood | Newick Lane | Mayfield | East Sussex | TN20 6RG

HARDWOOD DECKING

EDITOR’S LETTER Switchboard: 0845 389 0662 Fax: 0845 389 0663 www.absolutebrighton.tv Download the Absolute Brighton iphone and ipad app FREE

Director / Editor: Verity Craig

Tim Parker looks at the history of Brighton Marina Page 58

Features / Design: Maureen Hunter-Shine

Advertising Manager: Richard Daley

Senior Account Executive: Rishma Patel

Accounts: Chris Pugh

Head of Accounts/finance: Adam Style

Managing Director: Paul Craig

Advertising enquiries:

0845 389 0662

sales@absolutebrighton.com Editorial e-mail: editorial@absolutebrighton.com All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without prior written consent of Absolute brighton. The views and opinions expressed by contributors to this magazine may not necessarily represent the views of Absolute brighton. Absolute brighton takes no responsibility for claims made in advertisements featured in this magazine. Absolute brighton can take no responsibility for unsolicited material.

Surprisingly, March is actually a month of gift buying. Just as the festive shopping seems to be a well and truly distant memory, Easter and Mothers Day come right up and hit us! But oh, how we all love any excuse to celebrate and go shopping. Don’t we? Yes we do, I’m afraid it’s a fact. According to a survey that Which? recently conducted, the results showed that rather than do no shopping at all, us Brits have adapted to the economic downturn by switching which shops we now shop at to save us money; so we still have our cake and eat it. In the same poll of 2,000 adults, it was found that bagging a bargain gives so much satisfaction that four in five love boasting about it, even trying to make other people jealous. Aren’t we a horrible lot! Meanwhile, with Easter on the horizon, it has also been noted that our buying patterns for this fun time of the year have also changed; rather than investing in chocolate goodies and treats for our loved ones, we are now buying them ‘gifts’, and also decorating our homes with Easter offerings from hanging ornamental eggs to little yellow chicks in our fruit bowls and such. We’re not that bad then after all are we? So, bearing that in mind, this month we have put together a page that’s full of Easter and Spring-full delights, for those of you planning on decorating your ‘nest’ with some Easter ornaments. (Page 32) Meanwhile, don’t forget that very special lady in your life this month (or partners, make sure the children haven’t forgotten that homemade something for their mum!) Mothers Day is that special day when we can show our mums just how much we care. From a special meal out to afternoon tea or simply a special gift, there’s lots of ways of showing her that you’ve thought of her. This month we found some beautiful gift ideas for mums from a variety of outlets. Now you just have to make sure you have the date in your diary - Sunday 18th March. (Page 34) We wish all you mum’s a very happy Mothers Day!

See you next month!

Printed in the UK by THE MAGAZINE PRINTING COMPANY www.magprint.co.uk

ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE FASHION

ABSOLUTE

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Shumi wears: Aquascutum dandelion sleeveless mesh knit top, Mimco Wildcat Platform jonquil wedges, Darling Tasmin mustard shoulder bag with strap, Next yellow denim shorts, 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s enamel pendant stylists own. Craig wears: Pal Zileri white cotton trousers

Yellow Fever

Add a splash of summer in to your wardrobe with shades of lemon, saffron and mustard

Photography Paul Williams Styling Gregg Stone

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Shumi wears: Traffic People yellow chiffon layered beaded short dress, L.K.Bennett yellow embassy leather wedges, Radley hot yellow leather shopper bag, vintage 1970â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pendant stylist own

ABSOLUTE FASHION

ABSOLUTE

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Craig wears: Pal Zileri white cotton trousers, yellow silk linen shirt, yellow seersucker blazer, Clarks Originals wallabee maple suede lace ups, Adidas yellow cotton socks, vintage 1950s thin tie from ebay.co.uk

ABSOLUTE FASHION

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Craig wears: Mustard yellow Jaeger London straight leg cotton trousers, and cowl neck thick knit jumper

ABSOLUTE FASHION

ABSOLUTE

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Shumi wears: Jaeger London white linen dress with tie belt and cutout neck and hem detail, L.K.Bennett yellow balina patent clutch bag and yellow petal patent high heeled shoes

ABSOLUTE FASHION

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ABSOLUTE FASHION

Photographer: Paul Williams www.paulwilliams.org Stylist: Gregg Stone www.greggstone.com Hair AND MAKE-UP: www.neilgogoi.com ModelS Shumi and Craig from Nevs models www.nevsmodels.co.uk

Stockists: Traffic People L.K.Bennett Pal Zileri Aquascutum Jaeger Smiley Radley Darling Mimco Clarks Originals Adidas Ebay

www.trafficpeople.co.uk www.l.k.bennett.co.uk www.palzileri.com www.aquascutum.co.uk www.jaeger.co.uk www. smileycompany.com www.radley.co.uk www.darlingclothes.com www.mimco.co.uk www.clarks.co.uk www.sportsdirect.com www.ebay.co.uk

Craig wears: Jaeger London trousers, Smiley off-white t-shirt with classic smiley face

ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE FASHIONISTA

A DAY AT THE RACES... AND MORE Stylist and designer Natalie Wileman has her eye on the big events - the races, weddings and christenings... y now, the January blues have all vanished

also means dressing for the girls and not the boys,

and, following February pay-packets,

which I always feel brings out the more creative side

everything starts to look remarkably more rosy

to a woman’s wardrobe. I am a total print lover and

for the year ahead.

so for me my inspiration will be coming from the

It doesn’t matter if your promises of giving

catwalks of Mary Katrantzou and Peter Pillotto. Both

up drinking/smoking etc haven’t come to fruition,

designers have worked in fabulous Technicolor with

March is a month for looking forward to all the

awe inspiring print work that will ensure a stand out

year has to offer, be it a summer holiday, summer

outfit for this more elaborate day of dressing.

weddings to attend, or simply a few good days (and

Onto summer weddings, which again provide

nights) out at the races.

another fantasy dress up day in our more subdued

“the preparations in the months that lead up to them are equally as exciting as the events themselves...”

daily wardrobes. There was so much inspiration, but for me, weddings should be about opulence and indulgence, as well as love and sweetness, and so the sugary sweet pastels that covered the catwalks left me thinking of Sofia Coppola’s Marie- Antoinette (starring Kirsten Dunst) and will be providing

I myself this month have plenty of things to look

my inspiration for the summer weddings I shall

forward to; my own wedding at the end of the year,

be attending. For winter weddings, including my

the birth of my son in May, and my 30th Birthday

own, the palette must be much darker and more

in June (which will now have to officially be in July,

seductive and so here I shall be looking to the

following birth of son). Of course this is a fashion

Gatsby glamour that graced the shows of Gucci,

column, not a life coaching column so there is a very

Marchesa, and Ralph Lauren.

obvious twist to my tale, and that is that all of these

Finally there is no nicer an event to attend then that

fabulous events will need equally fabulous outfits,

of a christening, and as spring hits the church bells

and for me the preparations in the months that lead

will be in full swing blessing all the sweet little babas

up to them are equally as exciting as the events

heads. What more optimistic event is there in the

themselves; flicking through pages of Vogue and the

yearly calendar than that of the life before a child?! I

like, dreaming up the ‘perfect’ outfits.

think this is what Marc Jacobs must have been thinking

The Spring/Summer catwalks gave plenty of

with his collection for Louis Vuitton, the piece pictured

inspiration no matter what your style. For me a day

below is my dream dress of the season!

Mary Katrantzou at the races is the one day where you really can let loose and have some fun with your outfit. Ladies day

Twitter: @abfash Facebook: Absolute fashionista

Sofia Coppola’s Marie Antoinette (starring Kirsten Dunst)

Gucci

Louis Vuitton

ABSOLUTE

B0312_016 Fashion column MAR20121 1

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8:- +0-:1;0-, ?)<+0-; ?M PI^M I NIJ]TW][ ZIVOM WN XZM W_VML _I\KPM[ NQVM LQIUWVL IVL [\]VVQVO [QT^MZ RM_MTTMZa 8TMI[M ^Q[Q\ W]Z NZQMVLTa [PWX WZ KITT 2IUM[ :W[[ WV ! NWZ LM\IQT[ SHOP: 29 Station Road, Portslade, East Sussex BN41 1GB TEL: 01273 239763 WEB: jamesrossjewellers.co.uk

B0312_017 ADS.indd 1

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ABSOLUTE FASHION

Lace be a lady... 1

Pretty and feminine, it’s no wonder that when Kate Middleton stepped out gracefully in her lace wedding gown last year, designers across the globe frantically thought up beautiful designs using lace

1 Vaity lace block top This French Connection lace top is a pretty vintage-inspired style. Wear with a pencil skirt and heels for a retro look. Has a contrast Peter Pan collar, covered button fastenings at back, semi-sheer body. £62.00 FCUK, Eat Street, Brighton www.frenchconnection.com 2 Ivory lace halterneck circle dress This beautiful retro halterneck circle dress is fashioned from high-quality acetate satin, and is overlaid with delicate lace. £115 www.vivienofholloway.com Champagne satin black lace halterneck 1950s dress Same as the above dress, but with the added satin and black lace overlay. £115 www.vivienofholloway.com

3 Spot lace Gloves Delicate lace fabric gloves in an elegant style. £10 Accessorize, Churchill Square, Brighton. www.accessorize.com 4 Frilly knickers Why not follow the lace trend under your clothes too, with these pretty ruffle detail short-style knickers in neon. £7.00 Accessorize, Churchill Square, Brighton. www.accessorize.com

5 Valentine bag Beige tote bag from Valentino featuring a large black lace covered section and linen lining. £909.00 www.farfetch.com

5 6

6 Lace pencil dress This beautiful berry coloured dress is of mixed fabric with elaborate attached lace top and black fitted pencil skirt. £210 Karen Millen, Nile Street, Brighton. www.karenmillen.com 7 Lourdes gold wrap lace dress Gold lace Lourdes dress with delicate lace overlay. Also available in black. £159 Reiss, East Street, Brighton. www.reissonline.com

7 9 8

8 Black leather and lace court shoe These beautiful lace shoes will suit any special occasion, with on-trend lace detail and pointed toe. £110 Ted Baker, Dukes Lane, Brighton. www.tedbaker.com 9 Lace print blouse Sophisticated silk georgette blouse with short cap sleeves and printed lace design. £105 Karen Millen, Nile Street, Brighton.

ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE FASHION

A special night The School Prom is an event that will stay with you for the rest of your life says Katie Tamswell of Walk in Wardrobe

chool proms have become one of the most exciting and important events in the school calendar, and are becoming bigger and more glitzy and glamorous each year. They are a fantastic opportunity for the young to develop their social skills in a formal setting and are highly significant in celebrating the end of a young schooling life before entry into the adult world – whether it be further education or straight into the world of work. A girl’s prom is an event that they will remember for the rest of their lives, and Walk in Wardrobe is happy to be part of a prom girl’s special night. As she arrives at her prom every girl wants all eyes on her as she enters the room, and the dress is the most important part. In a specialist boutique, like Walk in Wardrobe, you will find an impressive selection of dresses along with specialist styling advice. What’s even more important is that you get peace of mind in knowing that your chosen dress is going to be individual and not one you would find in the high street chain stores but more likely to be seen on TV in soaps such as The Only Way is Essex!

With the vibrant celebrity culture we have in Britain we have seen a move away from the more traditional style of prom dress and many girls now opt for a more sophisticated glamorous style. WalK In Wardrobe strive to source only the most sought-after, new dress designs that are beautifully made in the UK as well as around the world, and will fit in with today’s ever changing fashion trends. There has been a rise in girls opting to hire dresses, which offer that red carpet glamour which will wow their classmates at a fraction of the cost! The consultants at Walk in Wardrobe will be able to give you hints and tips on how to look after your hire dress. Not only do they offer this specialised service, they also promise that they will not release two of the same dresses from the shop to the same function! Walk in Wardrobe offer a fun and relaxed service, where all girls can explore their options for prom dresses and the friendly consultants can offer advice and guidance on which style is flattering on which shape to ensure that every girl feels confident and looks stunning for her prom. Girls can even get in the mood and sashay down the catwalk in the boutique to show their friends and family whilst picking their perfect dress. To get an idea of the styles available within the boutique, please visit our online shop at: www.walk-in-wardrobe.co.uk, or visit Walk in Wardwobe, Western Road, Hove.

VINTAGE CLOTHING from the art deco 20s, Hollywood-inspired 50s, glam rock 70s and avant garde 80s

22 TRAFALGAR STREET, BRIGHTON BN1 4EQ Tel: 01273 687968 www.trampvintageclothing.com

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ABSOLUTE FASHION

Hell for Leather...

1. Stone Blue Leather Jacket This stone rough synthetic leather jacket makes the perfect everyday wear. Features pockets and zip through front. £79.99 Zara, Churchill Square Shopping Mall, Brighton. www.zara.com

Being masculine and sexy, it’s no surprise that leather is once again all the rage for men this season. Make sure you are kitted out this spring with this big leather trend

2. Brown Leather Jacket Waist length tan leather zip-up and button leather jacket. This jacket has large oversized pockets for style and brown cord lining around the collar. £169 Zara, Churchill Square Shopping Mall, Brighton. www.zara.com

2 1

3. Suede Leather Pocket Crew Tee Burgundy marl crew neck t-shirt with suede pocket and back neck tape detailing. £16 Topman, Western Road, Brighton. www.topman.com

4. Sheepskin Flying style Jacket If real leather isn’t your thing, then how about this fabulous faux-leather shearling style jacket. With its inner faux-sheepskin trim too, you’ll feel snug and stylish. £105 French Connection, East Street, Brighton. www.frenchconnection.com

5. Crocodile Effect Leather Wallet Beautiful dark brown leather folding wallet by Reiss. £59 Reiss, East Street, Brighton. www.reissonline.com

6. Natural Leather Handy Holdall A very handy sized soft Colombian leather tan holdall. Great for an overnight stay or even a visit to the gym. It is not big, but it is functional! There are fully lined zip pockets at each end and the main compartment is opened by a three-sided zip allowing maximum access. The shoulder strap with comfort pad is adjustable and the leather handles have a wraparound Velcro-secured ‘stay’. £109.99 www.blokesbags.co.uk

6 20

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Stepping out in style The Martlets fabulous fashion show Photograph by Paul Williams

Come and join us for a fabulous evening where well known fashion shops in Brighton will be exhibiting their summer seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s latest styles. The range of clothing will be eclectic from high end shops in the centre of Brighton to fashionable vintage. It all takes place at the new Boundary Room at Sussex County Cricket Club. Shops taking part include:

PROFILE FASHION

Profile - the high end clothing store for discerning men and woman, every designer you dream of

Tramp Vintage -wonderful quality vintage clothing for ladies.

Box 2 - beautifully stylish clothing for the larger lady.

The latest internet sensation Bugsy swimwear and beach dresses. A new concept in swimwear, mix and match design your own outfit for the beach.

Walk in Wardrobe the queen of prom gowns and Ascot outfits will parade dresses together with stunning hats perfect for Ladies Day at the races. The Martlets very own charity shops will also be showing just what is possible in the latest fashions at a fraction of the price.

The Martlets Fashion Show The Boundary Room Sussex County Cricket Club

March 20th 2012 at 7pm Sponsored by Absolute Brighton Magazine

Tickets are ÂŁ15, available from Antonia in the Martlets Fundraising Office 01273 747455 email Antonia@themartletshospice.co.uk B0312_021 Martlets ad MARCH.indd1 1

16/2/12 13:52:29

SHOREHAM AEROJUMBLE! THE BIGGEST AEROJUMBLE & AVIATION COLLECTORS EVENT!

Saturday 31st March 2012 SHOREHAM AIRPORT BUY, SELL, EXCHANGE OR BARTER AT OVER 150 STALLS ALL UNDERCOVER ALL DAY REFRESHMENTS AEROJUMBLE ✮ AVIATION ART ✮ PRINTS BOOKS ✮ MEDALS ✮ PROPELLERS MEMORABILIA ✮ OLD TOYS ✮ UNIFORMS EQUIPMENT ✮ BADGES ✮ MODEL KITS FLYING CLOTHING ✮ AIRCRAFT PARTS. AND MUCH MORE BESIDES ADMISSION: ADULTS £5 CHILDREN FREE Stallholders please call: 01424 753 356 Email: sndz388@aol.com

Cruising in style Scott Anderson talks about his time at the Luxury Cruise Company and what the VIP cruises have to offer

e first launched The Luxury Cruise Company back in 2007, with a small office in Manchester St, Brighton. We were the UK’s first

cruise specialist website to focus solely on the ultra-luxury cruises, those that offer all-inclusive cruises, spacious suites, (not cabins), and superb gourmet cuisine and service. I used to work on cruise ships many moons ago, when I was a young man of 19, and my first ship was sailing out of Puerto Rico – at that time in my life I didn’t even know where that was! I joined the ship as Cruise Ship Photographer, tasked with snapping the happy American passengers whilst they were on their “vacation”. The role also involved me dressing up as a pirate, a sultan, Tom Jones and a cowboy. All for the sake of a fun photo! After a number of years as a ship photographer I changed department and ended up as Duty Free shop manager; seven years, nine cruise ships and thousands of nautical miles later I gave up my sea legs and returned to land.

Calling all Fashion Boutiques ADVERTISE IN OUR FASHION SECTION

“You can drink champagne all day if you wish... in an elegant, stylish atmosphere” Now we are based in a larger office in Church Road, Hove and have two reservations staff helping clients arrange their cruise holidays, plus two homeworkers.

and feature your clothes in our exclusive fashion shoots

One of our preferred cruise partners is Silversea Cruises. They offer 6-

PLEASE CALL RISHMA for more information

fares, a butler for all suites, exceptional gourmet cuisine, superb service

0845 389 0662

Onboard you can drink champagne all day if you wish whilst you enjoy

star luxury cruises all over the world, and even have an ice-strengthened expedition ship sailing to the Polar Regions. Silversea have all-inclusive and some really great cruise itineraries. the company of like-minded sophisticated guests, in an elegant, stylish atmosphere. They have a fleet of six intimate, smaller cruise ships, accommodating from just 296 guests up to 540. Luxury cruising doesn’t get much better than this!

Wg^\]idc B0312_022 Luxury cruise edit MAR1 1

If you have any cruise questions or need help in choosing the right cruise for you (we believe there is a cruise for everyone, as long the right person goes on the right ship) then please call us on 01273 311879.

22/2/12 14:20:21

Join Silver Wind on this 10-day all inclusive

6-star luxury cruise from Venice to Istanbul…. Including

WITH OUR COMPLIMENTS

Free ﬂights $1,000 on board spending money

The Luxury Cruise Company will provide readers of Absolute Brighton Free Suite upgrades* Free ‘Le Champagne’ gourmet dinner experience on board VIP Airport Lounge access Bon Voyage gift

Visit 8 ports of call with plenty of time for sightseeing… with two days at sea to relax on board and enjoy the onboard enrichment, or just do nothing at all… Date 01-Jul-12 02-Jul-12 03-Jul-12 04-Jul-12 05-Jul-12 06-Jul-12 07-Jul-12 08-Jul-12 09-Jul-12 10-Jul-12 11-Jul-12

Port Arrival Venice, Italy Embark Venice, Italy Day At Sea Corfu, Greece 08:00 Day At Sea Santorini, Greece 08:00 Rhodes, Greece 08:00 Kusadasi, Turkey 08:00 Mytilene, Lesbos, Greece 12:00 Canakkale, Turkey 08:00 Istanbul, Turkey Debark

Departure Overnight 17:00

Silversea Distinctions • Intimate, elegant ships • All ocean-view suites, most with private verandas • Butler service for every suite

23:00

• Gourmet cuisine inspired by Relais & Châteaux and Slow Food • Enrichment programme and all-new entertainment

18:00 18:00 23:00 23:00 18:00

• Onboard gratuities included • Complimentary wines and spirits served throughout the ship • In-room bar stocked with your complimentary beverage preferences • Complimentary 24-hour room service • Complimentary transportation into town (most ports)

Fares from £3,899pp for a Vista Suite

For more information and guidance, please contact The Luxury Cruise Company on 01273 311 879 or email info@theluxurycruisecompany.com The Luxury Cruise Company, 71 Church Road, Hove. BN3 2BB www.theluxurycruisecompany.com

Terms and conditions * Suite upgrade – pay for a Veranda Suite and travel in a Mid-Ship Veranda Suite. VIP airport lounge available from LGW. Includes flights, transfers, all meals, beverages, entertainment, accommodation and port taxes. Prices are per person based on two sharing and are subject to availability and possible change.

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ABSOLUTE SOCIALITE DIARY

ABSOLUTE COMMENT

What’s going on....?

THESPIAN BRIGHTON PJ, aka Peter Jarrette, Brighton’s favourite socialite, with the latest in great new venues, events and happenings

Pictures by Melissa Buchanan

Lordy-dordy has it been cold! Colder than a witches tifter! Sensibly for us the events on offer have all been staged in cosy, comfortable and (in some instances) cavernous surrounds of Hove Town Hall, architects offices-cum-galleries and venues in the city’s centre. In recent weeks two friends have delivered warm bundles of joy in the form of mid-winter babies. Congratulations to Franke Darling, her little lad, Master Florian Cedar Darling and to Natasha Franklin and her little blossom, Miss Coco April Franklin Webb! How have we avoided the chill drill of this arctic winter? I rounded up my accompanying lady pap Melissa Buchanan at the invitation of Ghar Ping; wrapped up snugly and waddled off to the Hove Town Hall for The Brighton and Hove Chinese Association’s Chinese New Year celebration. There we sampled fire noodles, steaming fired rice and Chinese teas in the company of our hard working and always receptive Mayor Cllr. Anne Meadows. We were entertained with stage shows, martial arts presentations (in which Ping showed off his admirable defence skills) and children’s choruses. The artist, Uzi, whose 3-dimensional pieces are also functioning lamps, clocks, cabinets and ornate rock ‘n’ roll embellished mirrors, collected by all manner of celebrity, were unveiled at the Alan Phillips Gallery at 31 Montefiore Road, Hove. We were kept very hot with dark spiced rum on that evening. If you missed Uzi’s show and his lavish closing party visit www.uzi1960.com to learn more of the artist. I also donated framed original PJ artwork and a signed poster to a Walk-in-Wardrobe charity fashion event where I dug-out my old modelling moves to prowl the catwalk in evening suits by Dickie’s of Hove. I was made to look edgy by make-up artist Ange Watson and the styling of Absolute’s Fashionista columnist, Natalie Wileman. February was Hot Stuff! PJ Twitter.com/socialitepete facebook.com/peter.jarrette

ABSOLUTE

B0312_024 PJ Mo MARCH 2012.indd 1

You couldn’t make it up!

“Tis strange – but true; for truth is always strange; Stranger than fiction.” A

Dear diary

Mo Hunter-Shine says it like it is

famous quote by Lord Byron in his epic poem Don juan. Sometimes real life events are so strange, that, were they fiction, they would be deemed as too far fetched to be realistic. When accused of deserting ship before all the passengers had left, the cowardly captain of the ill-fated Costa Concordia cruise ship, which capsized in January, initially denied it, saying he was “on board until the end.” When it became obvious that was not the case, he then changed his story to say he had been “catapulted off the ship, landed in a lifeboat, and was unable to get back to the ship!” Last year, there was a stand-off between police in Rothbury, Northumberland and murderer Raoul Moat, who had been on a deadly rampage. During this tense time, troubled ex-footballer Paul Gascoigne turned up at the police line, claiming he was “a friend of Moaty” and wanted to talk to him. He had brought with him a can of lager, a fishing rod and some chicken, for his ‘friend’. “I just want to give him some therapy and say ‘come on Moaty, it’s Gazza’” he is alleged to have added. In both these bizarre events, reporting of the actions of these individuals brings with it a degree of misplaced humour. In the case of the cruise ship, many people lost their lives or suffered a terrible frightening experience, possibly because of the incompetence of the captain. While in the second, a man was killed and another blinded during Moat’s rampage. We also know of Gazza’s well-documented problem with alcohol, making this antic of his all the more pathetic. But still we can’t help almost laughing out loud – in utter disbelief. Next time you are watching a soap opera or drama on TV, and think ‘that would never happen’, think again. Fiction is supposed to reflect real life, and, if the two cases above are anything to go by, real life knows no boundaries where credibility is concerned.

ABSOLUTE

21/2/12 11:08:39

Celebrity

ABSOLUTE CELEBRITY

SPOTLIGHT

Our undercover celebrity spies unravel the world of showbiz news and gossip

be a role model to her younger fans.

A Sad Goodbye To Whitney

In an interview with the Today show, Taylor appeared

Another sad month masked the music industry this February

to cast aspersions against her showbiz counterparts

with the tragic news that beautiful and massively talented

who wear next to nothing on stage. We say good for you

singer Whitney Houston passed away. We say ‘another,’ since

Taylor!

sadly these tragic stories of wonderfully talented superstars is

Taylor Won’t Dance In Her Bra Taylor Swift will not be caught dead ‘dancing in her bra’. The 22-year-old country singer, star’s in upcoming family film The Lorax, and maintains that she wants to

happening all too often.

New Order To Headline Bestival New Order have been announced as the Saturday headliners for Bestival 2012! Fans will be glad to see the band playing together once again on such a great performance background. Also playing will be Friendly Fires, Death In Vegas, Django Django, Daughter, and Drums of Death. More live acts and DJs will be added to the line-up.

Carol Has Bad Make-Up Day She’s known for trying to look much younger than her 51 years, and actually usually does win the battle! However,

It starts off with us reading in the tabloids about how these stars, such as Amy Winehouse, Michael Jackson and now Whitney, are leading off-the-rail lives...next it seems, we are sadly reading that they have lost their lives and battles. If anything can come out of these tragic loses of lives, lets hope it is that it makes younger generations stop and think before entering in to a world of drugs, drink and even painkillers; all to

Celebometer

ease the pain of this so-called wonderful world of celebrity.

Who’s going UP and who’s going DOWN this month… Going Up

Adele continues to hit the high notes in 2012. Having received

a recent appearance on Loose Women by presenter

a staggering six Grammy awards last month, she’s once

Carol Vorderman left her fans tweeting a barrage of

again made her trillions of British fans proud. Don’t take that

shocked comments. With her usually coiffed brunette

rumoured five year break Adele, we beg of you!

locks appearing backcombed and messy, and her usual sleek make up replaced with gothic style heavy black eye shadow and thick liner, one fan even Tweeted how Ms Vorderman looked like she ‘had just returned from a heavy night out!’ As a remarkably intelligent woman that Carol Vorderman is, it is so sad that she feels this need to try to compete with the likes of much younger counterparts. We say, go back to what suits you best Carol; sleek, sophisticated and classy!

Going down Isn’t it amusing how celebrities fancy themselves as politicians these days. With yet again the awful potential of disturbances breaking out on The Falkland Islands, who decides to step in and give it his awe? David Cameron? No. Nick Clegg? No… it is the actor (formerly Mrs Madonna) Sean Penn. Sending a scathing verbal attack on Britain, we say, stick to your day job Sean… and probably best to stay away from Britain for a while now.

ABSOLUTE

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21/2/12 21:07:31

ABSOLUTE MARCH

FIVE THINGS YOU SIMPLY MU ST KNOW ABOUT THIS MONTH!

March madness! 1 Chocolate heaven!

Enjoy two days of chocolate-fuelled festivities when The Chocolate Festival returns to Brighton as part of the annual Brighton Food and Drink Festival. It’s the ideal place to stock up on delicious Easter gifts and indulge your passion for all things chocolate. Sample the delights of the world’s best chocolatiers, and chat to Britain’s best artisan chocolate producers.

Taste your way through sweet and savoury chocolate dishes and cocktails, and discover the health benefits of raw chocolate. The Chocolate Festival New Road (opposite Royal Pavilion) Brighton 17th and 18th March Free admission www.festivalchocolate.co.uk

2 Jennifer’s back! 3 East Sussex Open A new film with Jennifer Aniston arrives this month. Wanderlust is the story of an urban couple who purchases a place in New York. The husband loses his job, and with no other options, they leave for Georgia to live with family. Along the way, they stay at a bed and breakfast hotel that turns out to be a hippie commune. Directed by David Wain, this comedy stars Paul Rudd alongside Jennifer.

East Sussex Open is an open submission exhibition that showcases the work of artists from East Sussex. The exhibition, in its third year, is taking place in the ground floor exhibition halls of the famous Towner Gallery in Eastbourne, from 24th March – 29th April 2012. You will be able to see the selected work of artists and makers working in all media, who live or work in the East Sussex County Council area. www.townereastbourne.org.uk

4 CityCamp Brighton2 March is the time for CityCamp Brighton 2. Following on from the success of last year’s event, which saw almost 200 people come together for a weekend of learning, discussing, imagining and building, CityCamp is doing it all over again – but even better. CityCamp Brighton is about thinking differently about the way the city works, and about using the web, technology and participation to improve the future. You can come for the whole event, or for part of it – and you should, because:

* You can meet the council and public service staff who can help turn and ideas you have into reality * You can win money to make things happen * It’s free. It’s fun and inspiring * It is full of interesting people who all share a passion for Brighton & Hove City Camp Brighton 2 will be held from 2nd - 4th March 2012 at the Sallis Benney Theatre, at Brighton University. Find out more on www.citycampbtn.org.

A Bigger Picture

You can’t have helped but hear about the exciting exhibition currently running at The Royal Academy of Arts in Piccadilly, London. ‘A Bigger Picture’ is the first major exhibition of new landscape works by David Hockney RA, featuring vivid paintings inspired by the East Yorkshire

landscape, created especially for the galleries at the Royal Academy of Arts. Tickets are hard to get hold of, but worth it if you can! David Hockney RA: A Bigger Picture Now until 9 April 2012 www.royalacademy.org.uk

ABSOLUTE

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22/2/12 12:18:34

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ABSOLUTE INTERIORS

Let the sunshine in Bring the outside in, with a conservatory that’s light and airy and has a touch of style in keeping with the rest of your home

A Five Step Guide To The Perfect Conservatory or Garden Room 1. Planning and designing

(Victorian, Edwardian, modern etc) and how you would like the finish

With more and more people deciding to stay where they are instead of

(wood, white, metal). You also need to decide on heating and cooling

moving home, a conservatory makes the perfect extension. Before you

issues. Do you want underfloor heating? Do you want electric roof

plan that extravagant conservatory extension however, it’s crucial to talk

windows?

to a local estate agent to find out what renovations are popular in your

2. The fun stuff!

area. Every street has a ceiling value so don’t over develop if you want to

Once you have a plan, you can start on the fun stuff. What style and

see a good return on your investment.

colour do you want the interior design to have? Light or bright shades

Once you’ve decided to go ahead with your conservatory, the next step

are popular as they create an airy light feel. Shades of greens is also a nice

is setting your budget and designing it. If this isn’t your area of expertise,

choice, especially if you are also introducing some plants such as palms

then it really is worth appointing an expert; you can use the company

in to your conservatory. When selecting shades and colours however,

you may use to build your conservatory.

always look at samples in a light area similar to how the light in your

You need to decide for yourself however, what style you would like

conservatory will be.

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE INTERIORS “When

selecting shades and colours... always look at samples in a light area similar to how the light in your conservatory will be. “

3. Everything should match Perhaps purchase some crockery and glass wear in keeping with the style that you are opting for the interior of your new conservatory. Guests popping in for coffee will be impressed that you’ve thought of everything.

4. Storage It’s good to plan some storage, whether it be drawers, a trunk or shelves. There’s nothing worse than a beautiful conservatory full of clutter. Remember, this will probably become your most used room!

3. Furnishings Buy cane furniture. It is both practical (as it can be used inside and out) and stylish. There are many great designs on today’s market too. Also, invest in pretty and practical blinds. They will have a lot of wear and tear so you want good quality ones that will last. (See page 30 for further conservatory blind advice).

ABSOLUTE

ABSOLUTE INTERIORS

Blind faith Sussex Blinds can help you create a wonderful living space in your conservatory

linds are an essential requirement to create a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere, giving an air of sophistication and elegance to your conservatory. They help to keep your conservatory cool by reflecting heat and reducing glare in the summer, while maintaining warmth and comfort in winter, allowing you to have maximum temperature control and enhancing the insulation qualities of your conservatory space. Sussex Blindsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; collection of conservatory blinds contain a wide range of fabrics and colours to suit every window style and shape, all designed to help provide you with the very best in sun protection and privacy. Sussex Blinds 36-38 Warren Road Woodingdean, Brighton 01273 684848 www.sussexblindsandshutters.com

COOL CONSERVATORIES STYLISHLY HOT BLINDS To see these contemporary shades visit our showroom at 36-38 Warren Road Woodingdean Brighton BN2 6BA

or call

01273 684848 to arrange a home visit

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SUSSEX BLINDS

All shutters, blinds and awnings are made-to-measure & expertly fitted

Apr2011 Half.indd 1

ABSOLUTE

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11/04/2011 10:42

20/2/12 18:20:05

ABSOLUTE INTERIORS

“They help to keep your conservatory cool by reflecting heat and reducing glare in the summer, while maintaining warmth and comfort in winter...”

ABSOLUTE

B0312_030_031 Interiors Conserva3 3

20/2/12 18:20:10

EGG

Static

Celebrate that Spring has sprung this Easter, by bringing a touch of the festivities in to your home

1. Fresh Cream Rose and Faux Egg Heart Fresh cream spray roses, faux quails eggs, guinea fowl feathers and ivy in a vine weave heart. £65 www.figaandco.co.uk 2. Little Chick Watering Can Ultra cute silver coloured “Baby Chick” watering can. £10.85 www.ilikechickens.co.uk 3. Little Chick Cake Stand Pretty little cake stand with floral spring patterns. £9.99 www.thelastdetail.co.uk

4. Rustic Egg Wreath Welcome guests to your Easter day celebrations in style with this pretty egg wreath. £14.99 www.tch.net 5. Red Hand-painted Bird Decorations These exquisite decorations are handmade from paper mache and hand-painted. £5 www.fairwindonline.com

6. Handmade Felt Daffodil Wreath Add a little springtime cheer to your home with this daffodil wreath. £16.99 www.tch.net

4 9 32

7. Ceramic Hen Egg Holder Bring spring or Easter to your kitchen with this ornate hen wearing a sun hat!. £14.99 www.tch.net 8. Robins Egg Soaps These vegetable based, Frenchmilled soaps are imbued with soothing extracts of chamomile and meadowsweet. £19.95 www.ilikechickens.co.uk

9. Nyokki Chick Pet Plant This adorable Nyokki Chick is filled with a growing medium and rye grass seed. Simply water Nyokki and watch the grass grow! £7.25 www.ilikechickens.co.uk 10. Milkmaid Egg Cups These pretty hand painted egg cups will brighten up any breakfast table. £2.95 www.hunkydoryhome.co.uk 11. Pinkchikbag This funky chicken is made from papier mache on wood, decorated with foils and 3d paints before being coated with a moisture resistant varnish. £60 www.diannefox.co.uk

ABSOLUTE

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20/2/12 07:32:51

BRINGING YOUR KITCHEN TO LIFE

Hove Paints and Wallpapers Hove Paints and Wallpapers are excited to announce the launch of our newly refurbished Boundary Road shop

BDA

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Along with our friendly and knowledgeable staff, we have a vast stock of decorating equipment to meet all your needs. As well as a extensive range of Macphersons and Sandtex colours, we are also able to colour match most colours specially mixed to meet your requirements. We are also now proud stockists of Sanderson, Morris & Co, Little Greene Paint Company and Harlequin Wallpapers. Friendly and experienced staff Established 30 yrs ● Competivive prices 28 Boundary Rd, Hove, East Sussex BN3 4EF

Tel: 01273 415559

www.hovepaintsandwallpapers.co.uk

19/1/12 15:01:13

ABSOLUTE MOTHERS DAY

Just for you,mum... 1

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1. Keep Calm And Carry On Personalised CD Creative designs, professional CD printing and packaging, high quality recordings etc. Over 500 different CD packaging designs to personalise with text and photos, Over 8 million tracks to choose from. Orders dispatched within 48 hours. Prices start from £5.99 per CD www.mixpixie.com

3. Tea Time Tray This Tea Time Tray is perfect for using to chill out during meal times. The funky tray can be placed on her lap so she can kick back and eat her evening meal in comfort! Please note, this item does not include the cup pictured. Dimensions: Length: 45 cm Width: 28 cm £23.99 www.treather.com

2. Faux Rose Hydranger and Berry Vine Heart Beautiful silk flowers, including roses, hydrangers and ivy fill a vine weave hanging heart. Shiny red faux berries add a delicious touch to this romantic heart. Pretty spotted cotton hanging ribbon. £65 www.figaandco.co.uk

4. Glass Teapot Set This Glass Teapot features an inbuilt infuser to help you brew from fresh or dried herbs. Comes with a packet of mint seeds, metal plant marker and a booklet of herbal tea recipes. £19.95 www.handpickedcollection.com

5. Vintage Earrings Sterling silver marcasite and onyx vintage style earrings £75 James Ross 29 Station Road, Portslade 01273 239763 www.jamesrossjewellers.co.uk 6. Mummy Rules mug Fine China. Dishwasher and microwave safe. £7.99 www.mollieandfred.co.uk

ABSOLUTE

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21/2/12 12:19:29

ABSOLUTE MOTHERS DAY

Lovely gifts that tell your mum just what a special person she is; fun, beautiful and the best mum in the world!

10 11

13 7. Dedicate A Tree Gift Your mum will have a new tree planted for her by Tree Appeal: a charity endorsed by David Bellamy. The gift box contains lots of interesting information about the environmental benefits of their gift along with a booklet about the supporting charity Tree Appeal. £19.99 www.treather.com 8. Vintage Brooch Stunning sterling silver marcasite onyx and mother of pearl vintage style brooch. £149 James Ross 29 Station Road, Portslade 01273 239763 www.jamesrossjewellers.co.uk

9. Silver Pendant Sterling silver opal and marcasite pendant and chain. £140 James Ross 29 Station Road, Portslade 01273 239763 www.jamesrossjewellers.co.uk 10. Handmade Polaroid Happy Mothers Day Card Show your mum how much you care with this cute polaroid inspired print of SCRABBLE® letter tiles reading ‘Happy Mothers Day’ on a background of purple flowers. £3.50 www.ellieellie.co.uk

11. Chocolate Gift Hamper This mouth watering slice of chocolate gift box comes filled with luxury chocolate delights. Items include chocolate bar, fudge, truffles and chocolate champagne. £17.99 www.ayedo.co.uk 12. Retro Pink Rose washing up gloves Pink roses latex retro washing up gloves with pink roses on a white PVC cuff. £4.95 www.dotcomgiftshop.com 13. Magical Prints Beautiful vintage inspired Giclee Prints. Hand embellished, tissue wrapped and gift boxed £45.00 inc postage MissHavishamsAttic.com

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21/2/12 12:19:45

ABSOLUTE HEALTH

BE IMMUNE Our health expert Sheryl Waters discusses what nature can do to help boost your immune system

strong immune system is at the heart of our very wellbeing so we can fight off most diseases and conditions that come our way. But if our immune system is weakened for whatever reason, we become very vulnerable. Holistic medicine recognizes that illness is not caused by viruses and bacteria but by weakened immune systems. Fortunately, there are many natural immune system boosters and most of these are based on common sense and a balanced lifestyle. Lemon is an easy way to start. Add lemon juice to a glass of water or your cup of tea daily to help maintain your body’s internal “climate” at a pH that supports healthy bacteria instead of the viruses and harmful bacteria which thrive in more acidic environments. A herbal boost from the large selection of medicinal herbs, well known for their immune strengthening properties that are even safe for children too, will give your body additional support during the winter months. Echinacea, astragalus, cat’s claw and goldenseal are some examples.

“Add more raw fruits and vegetables rather than the cooked version whenever you can. Their nutritional content is unparalleled, with many antioxidants to protect those cells in your immune system from damage by toxins in the environment.” Essential oils can act as an effective natural immune system booster. When treating conditions such as acne, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, shingles, eczema, arthritis, Candida, athlete’s foot and nail fungus with products formulated from essential oils, part of the healing process is to ensure the formula is absorbed into the blood stream. This is achieved by massaging a drop of the treatment under each foot. This boosts the immune system and acts as a preventative. Add more raw fruits and vegetables rather than the cooked version whenever you can. Their nutritional content is unparalleled, with many antioxidants to protect those cells in your immune system from damage by toxins in the environment. Eat as many different colors of fruit and vegetables as possible. Dark colored produce

such as berries, kale and broccoli are especially good as well as nuts, seeds, garlic and kelp. The foods that boost immunity contain Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Carotenoids, Bioflavonoids, Zinc, Selenium and Omega-fatty acids. Spirulina is good as a naturally digestible food because it supplies so many of the nutrients you need. Remind yourself to drink lots of water.Your urine should be the very palest of yellow otherwise you are just not drinking enough. Make sure you are getting enough sleep.You know how much you need as an individual and it most likely means you have to go to bed earlier every night to achieve the hours of sleep you require. Whatever the weather, spend more time outdoors to soak up as much vitamin D as possible. A great deal of illness is caused through vitamin D deficiency. In winter months taking a vitamin D supplement can be a great idea. Take the opportunity to exercise while you are outside. Get your heart rate up, it’s vital for a healthy life. And have a good laugh! Laughter significantly increases the activity of T cells and other markers of healthy immune function. If we can laugh, we will automatically relieve our stress levels. Remember too that if you have taken antibiotics recently, you will need to restore the healthy flora balance in your body by taking a probiotic containing acidophilus. Unfortunately, antibiotics can harm the good bacteria in your system, and therefore your immune system, while they are fighting an infection in your body, so take them only when absolutely necessary. Try as many natural solutions as possible first, and always practice maintain a lifestyle that prevents illness. Now that you know what you should be doing to boost your immune system in a natural way, here are some of the things that you should be avoiding: coffee; sugar and artificial sweeteners; smoking; alcohol and drugs; processed food and saturated fat. If you can boost your immune system by following many of these suggestions, you are much less likely to become sick.You have a good chance of avoiding those other conditions that can rear their ugly heads when your immune system is compromised.

ABSOLUTE

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20/2/12 12:36:11

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21/2/12 18:33:34

ABSOLUTE LIFE COACHING

CUT YOUR LOSSES! This month, Absolute Life Coaching discusses how to use job loss as a way forward

ore and more, we are beginning

detailed - all 5 pages - dense, and an work

his new CV in hand, one that reflected his

to see people arrive at Absolute

of bureaucratic beauty! But as he began

authentic self and, what is more, the early

Coaching trying to face the challenge

to unravel his story he became visibly

shoots of a new varied and exciting career.

of a recent job loss. As redundancies,

relaxed, warmer, at ease. How did he feel

And he told us, while his income is now

downsizing and organisational

about this job loss, we asked. Without

considerably less, his life is richer, his

restructuring begin to shape the landscape

a moment’s hesitation he replied “So

work is enormous fun and his job loss had

of our working lives, so we are faced with a

relieved”. We remarked to John that his

been just the opportunity he had hoped for.

new set of uncertainties, unpredictabilities

CV barely reflected this now warm, friendly

and for some just plain fear.

personable man, and more reflected the

If you are interested in Life Coaching

Eleanor Roosevelt, former First Lady of

bureaucratic organisation he had just left.

please contact Georgina or Terrina at

the United States, remarked once that fear

Although a leader at work, John had been

079912206483. Terrina11@btinternet.com

may be the worst stumbling block any one

thrown off balance, he had lost sight

All our sessions are done with the utmost

of us has to face. She recalls a childhood

of his own centre. It was now that his

confidentiality. *Name changed

which was one long battle against fear, yet

real leadership skills would be needed

she went on to be a successful lady.

most. Eastern philosophy teaches that

*John, aged 43, came to Absolute

wise leaders remain centred and in crisis

Coaching a little while ago. With 25 years

prevail, maintaining inner balance, they

experience of work in social care, he

are able to remain true to their deepest

looked tired and frazzled. His aim, he said,

selves. In being centred we respond wisely

was to focus purely on improving his CV

to challenges, seeing new solutions and

to assist him in finding another similar

new possibilities.

job-in senior management. His CV was

We saw John again more recently, with

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16/2/12 18:08:59

ABSOLUTE DENTAL COLUMN

THE PRACTICE AT THE MARINA Sandy Furlong, Hygienist at Marina Dentalcare tells us how she grew to love Brighton Marina, and her life with Marina Dentalcare

“W

elcome to Brighton Marina”. That is what the sign said, and I must admit that I had heard of it, but only from the media. But that was a long time ago, and Brighton Marina has come a long way since then. When I first heard that they were planning to build a marina under the cliff at Black Rock, my first reaction was very negative. Firstly, there was my favourite swimming pool that would be demolished and secondly, there were no boats apart from fishing boats in Brighton, so what did we need a marina for? Ok, that says more about my ignorance of things marine, than it says about the wisdom of the plans, but then for many of us that was the reality. Now it has become one of the largest yachting harbours in the UK. When I first met owner Farrokh, I was amazed to learn that he had chosen to live in the Marina. “ Why would you want to do that?” I enquired. “It is in the middle of nowhere, and it must be windy and cold. “ He politely informed me that it was neither of those things, and we left it at that. That conversation, too, was also many years ago. I worked in his Hove practice, commuted from Lewes, and time ticked on. Then I moved and I felt that a commute from Piltdown was a few miles to far, and so we parted company for a while. When I had the phone call asking me if I would help at his brand new sparkly practice called Marina Dentalcare I was dubious, my feelings still being in the negative spectrum with regard to the marina, but now I am about to publicly eat my words. Let’s start with the weather. It is usually better here than in many other parts of Sussex. Getting snowed in is not a problem here. In fact the worst that ever seems to happen is a sea mist which does not last long. My short walk to work is usually a pleasure as the air is ozone filled and invigorating. So I was wrong about the weather. In the middle of nowhere? No that it is not, because in fact, it is somewhere in its own right. It is a village with everything except a village green, but then it does not need a green as it has a boulevard and squares that are used for

social and other gatherings. The longer I work here, the more I am aware that there is a real social cohesion about the marina, that many villages would give their eye teeth for. I will come back to these eye teeth later! In fact not to put to finer point on it I love working in the marina. The people here are quite literally the most diverse that you could wish for. This usually makes them not only different, but frequently fun. The powers that be have made the parking free which means that so many of the stresses that accompany any other trip into Brighton town are just not there. Once on the Marina, traffic is not a problem, as much of the area is pedestrian only. Like all villages it is necessary to have some amenities, and slowly the marina has developed in that direction. We now have not just shops, restaurants, estate agents, marine agents, bars and a casino, but now there are beauty therapists, a large fitness and pool centre and, of course, a dental practice. On arrival at the practice, the first thing that strikes you is that it is stylish without being aggressively so. The black and white interior and exterior are gentle on the eye as well as being professionally clinical. The reception is spacious iand with a wide open outlook onto the square. The surgery maintains this spacious and clinical feeling without making you feel that you have just stepped into a Tardis-type operating theatre! The next thing strikes you is Sonya’s smile in reception. It is a ready smile that genuinely welcomes all who comes into contact with it. I am sure that I am not the only person who views receptionists of all varieties with a little apprehension, buy when you enter the door her greeting will make you feel welcome as, of course, you will be. Dr Farrokh Sharifzad is our resident principle dentist. As I mentioned he lives on the marina. He always wanted to practice here but was thwarted by the powers that be for some considerable while. He is clinically assisted by Rachel his surgery assistant, and two hygienists. One is me and the other is the charming Nicole. Beautiful looking (but sorry, guys, she is spoken for)! We all have our own specialities; mine is working with my patients towards a greater personal empowerment. The more my patients feel in control of both their own oral health and their appointment time with me, the more we will both achieve. Being apprehensive at the dentist is not the way forward; it is my job to make sure that you leave our practice with more confidence than when you arrived. We are all a team working towards the same goal which is a healthy happy patient smiling for the sheer pleasure of it. So it has taken a few years but I am definitely singing the praises of the Brighton Marina. This village has the most welcoming feel, with a lot of truly supportive residents, and one thing for sure is that with our passion and commitment at Marina Dentalcare, all will definitely be keeping their eye teeth!

ABSOLUTE

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21/2/12 17:12:33

ABSOLUTE MAKE UP Celebrity make-up artist Jeni Dodson is our independent beauty advisor bringing to you the latest beauty buzz and hot tips straight from the red carpet!

www.jenidodson.com

Baby doll eyes The arrival of spring brings with it a fresh new feminine look which is both wearable and flattering as it is fashionable. This seasons make-up is all about looking as pretty as can be. Fabulously fluttery lashes were one of the key trends for the spring/summer shows, with feline eyes seen at the likes of Louis Vuitton, Christian Dior and Dolce & Gabbana. Make-up artists created doll-like make-up complete with hyper-real dewy complexions at Chanel and Versace, which perfectly complemented the pretty pastels and feminine silhouettes that made up this season’s trends. Whether you choose to keep it simple by opting for a romantic, luminous, soft skin and barely there make-up, or choose to express your femininity with the curliest of lashes, the pinkest of lips and a fairy-tale flush, spring is the perfect season for you to try all things girly - hooray for pretty make-up being cool again. Treat yourself to a makeover for spring with these easy beauty tips. Think baby doll porcelain complexion fluttery lashes and adorable lips!

1. Avoid the caked-on look by using a tinted

impact wing out just

lotion in order to even out your skin tone. For

the top eyeliner as

visible breakouts or other skin issues, apply a

this will make your

small amount of concealer and blend seamlessly.

eyes look larger than

Remember that using too much will only

life.Your eyebrows

emphasise the flaws you are trying to camouflage.

also play an essential

If you are facing a shiny complexion, fix the

part when it comes

problem with a special oil-absorbing powder.

to emphasising

2. For a big dose of cute, choose white and

your features.

baby pink palettes. Pale eye shadow makes your

Use a transparent

eyes look bigger and luminescent, while a soft

mascara and tease them upwards.

sweep of orange on the eyes will cancel out any

5. You will need lashings of mascara to create full

tired-looking purple-ish tones, and a watercolor

and voluminous lashes that don’t clump. Go that

effect ties the look together without coming off as

extra mile and try faux lashes to perfectly enhance

extreme. For a playful look, choose punchy, vibrant

and frame your eyes, as well reflecting your

eyeshadows and sweep across the top lid.

individuality.

3. Choose a cream, peachy or light pink blush or a

6. Glossy pearly peach and a soft pink lip stands

multi-purpose colour stick and apply it on apples

out without screaming too sexy, but if you have

of the cheeks to create a luminescent, youthful,

naturally pale lips opt for cerise, a lovely cherry

baby doll look, while remaining fresh and polished.

red-pink, an amazing colour on lips. It looks natural

4. Define your eyes by wrapping them with

but turned on, and it’s a real attention grabber

eye-liner applied very close to the lashes. For more

without being overly dramatic

Give me the eye!

Miss Piggy and Kermit

1. MAC Miss Piggy was kind enough to collaborate with MAC on the universe’s most perfectly pink eye shadow. Strong pigments that last. www.maccosmetics.co.uk £12.00 2. Bobbi Brown Long-Wear Gel Eyeliner. A long-wearing, water-resistant colour that glides on and allows you to get it just right before it dries, then stays without a smear or crease. www.bobbibrown.co.uk £16.50 3. Shiseido The makeup Accentuating Color Stick. Multi-purpose colour stick for highlighting eyes, cheeks, lips and body. Glides on smoothly and blends well on skin that leaves a crease-free finish. www.houseoffraser.co.uk £22.00 4. Lancome NEW Hypnôse Doll Eyes for that truly lifted and lengthened lash look. www.lancome.co.uk £20.50 5. Shu Uemura Fake Eyelashes For a huge dolly selection. www.houseoffraser.co.uk from £13.00 6. Giorgio Armani Gloss d’Armani A comfortable, stay-fast colour is like a second skin that remains true for up to eight hours. For a gloss that achieves a flawless result. www.giorgioarmanibeauty.co.uk £23.50

ABSOLUTE

B0312 040 Make-up.indd 1

20/2/12 18:24:07

....everyone’s reading it!

If you would like your business to be included within Absolute Brighton reaching an audience of over 25,000 then call us today on:

0845 3890662 www.absolutebrighton.co.uk THE CITY’S LONGEST ESTABLISHED LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

B0112_059 Filler Marilyn.indd 1

14/12/11 16:12:52

ABSOLUTE BEAUTY

Beauty is

1 Benefit Total Moisture Beauty Cream Concentrated immediate and long-term hydration. Contains natural plant-based squalene and mango butter emollients, to provide moisture. Available from April 2nd 2012 £26.50 benefitcosmetics.co.uk.

SKIN DEEP

Treat your face and body with these fantastic products to condition, revitalise and make your skin feel special

1 4

3 FAB 5 in 1 eye cream 5 in 1 eye cream is an elegant, soothing cream that addresses the common signs of ageing in the eye area. The cream smooths, firms, brightens and nourishes the skin while imparting a beautiful, subtle glow to the under eye area. £22 www.boots.com and www.feelunique.com, 4 NEW Pro-Radiance Hand & Nail Cream from Elemis spa@home Designed to stay on the skin’s surface and condition to a deeper level, without leaving an oily or tacky after-feel. £22 www.timetospa.co.uk 5 Ted Baker Body Scrub For that pampered, moisturised and polished feeling, massage in a circular motion and rinse to leave super smooth skin. £6.50 www.boots.com 6 The Goodness of Vegetables Ayesha fresh facemask from Lush Wonderfully nourishing to the skin, containing fresh asparagus, which provides essential nourishment, being high in Vitamin C. Also, with Fullers Earth to draw out excess dirt and oil, and honey and glycerine to lock in moisture. £5.75 for 75g www.lush.co.uk

5 7

2 BareMinerals NEW Active Cell Renewal Night Serum Helps maximise cellular renewal and boost moisture levels during the nigh. £38 Bare Escentuals Boutique, 7 Duke’s Lane, Brighton. Debenhams and www.bareminerals.co.uk

7 Caudalie Foot Beauty Cream With its unique expertise, Caudalie has selected three elements straight from the vine to repair and revive your feet. Designed to relieve dryness, the Caudalie Foot Beauty Cream also contains microbeads that mattify the skin for an oil-free finish with a touch of powder. Its scent of sweet orange pulp, spearmint, and bitter orange peel is balanced with a hint of gentle, comforting rose water. A treat for the feet! £12.50 Available in Space NK, Selfridges, John Lewis, and at www.caudalie.com

ABSOLUTE

B0312_042_043 Beauty Skincare DP2 2

20/2/12 20:30:52

ABSOLUTE BEAUTY 8 Gel Mineralize Charged Water Moisture Eye Cream Making its debut, Mineralize Skincare from MAC includes their ionized super-duo charged water technology. Gel £26.00, Eye Cream £24.50 www.maccosmetics.co.uk

9 Lulu’s Bombshell Body Show Off Body Lotion Lulu’s Time Bomb anti-ageing skincare products have been developed specifically for and used by Lulu, international recording artist. £18 www.lulusplace.co.uk

10 Azulene Oil Aftercare Azulene Oil Aftercare soothes and moisturises skin after any type of hair removal and can be used as a daily moisturiser in between waxes, adding a wonderful gloss to your legs. £7.99 www.boots.com

11 12

11 Ultra Repair Cream Tub from First Aid Beauty A head-to-toe moisturizer for anyone with severely dry, scaly skin. It has an incredibly rich, whipped texture that defies its healing power. £20 www.boots.com www.feelunique.com

12 NEW Vinoperfect Cell Renewal Night Cream from Caudalie Helps eliminate dark spots, even tone and and boost your skin’s brilliance. £38 Available from Selfridges and Space NK 13 NEW Repairwear Uplifting Firming Cream from Clinique With specially selected ingredients to help visibly firm, volumise and restore skin texture. £50 Available nationwide at Clinique counters from 16th March 2012 www.clinique.co.uk

14 NEW Age Defense BB Cream SPF30 from Clinique This multi-tasking BB Cream helps prevent the premature signs of ageing with UVA/UVB and environmental protection while immediately concealing imperfections. £25 www.clinique.co.uk

15 Naked Skin Coco de mer body butter to soothe your skin. Part of the Coco De Mer collection. £5.09 www.nakedbodycare.com www.boots.com 16 Capture Totale Eyes Essential The red bottle conceals not only a serum, but a universal cell regenerator! £49 www.dior.com

17 B0312_042_043 Beauty Skincare DP3 3

Lulu’s Glory Days Day Cream £25 Flashback Night Cream £30 The day cream moisturises and helps make skin appear firmer and plumper. The night cream is loaded with powerful ingredients that work while you sleep. Day £25, Night £30 www.lulusplace.co.uk ABSOLUTE

20/2/12 20:31:24

ABSOLUTE HAIR AND BEAUTY

The Red Carpet Updo This month Mark Woolley explains how preparation is the key for this elegant style

he beloved updo may take a little

smooth and ﬁzz-free foundation so treat

more time and effort to perfect but if

it whilst it is still damp with a lightweight

the plethora of ‘hair-up’ styles showcased

conditioning product like the Electric

on this season’s red carpet awards is

Smoothing Cream. Updos should have

anything to go by, it is deﬁnitely worth the

a lightness and polished look to them so

work.

be careful not to weigh them down by

Updo styles at the Golden Globes ranged

overloading with product.

from a minimalist and neatly tied back

To keep an updo sleek and precise,

bun like Angelina Jolie’s, to soft and

use a ﬁne-tooth comb to keep all hairs

naturally textured like Kate Winslet’s, ﬁnally

in place but if you have prepped your

to voluminous and intricately pinned in the

hair beforehand, this should make it

style of Kate Beckinsale.

much more manageable. For a more

There are many reasons why the updo

voluminous look, a gentle dose of

works so well: it doesn’t take undue

backcombing at the roots near hairline

attention away from your outﬁt or

will really lift the hair, creating the illusion

jewellery and it also allows you to show

of thickness and body. If a bit of texture is

off your face and make-up better, all of

what you’re after, put some heated rollers

which applies at these high proﬁle awards

in the hair before styling into an updo, or

ceremonies.

tong the lengths to create a gentle curl in

The key to perfecting an updo lies in its

the hair.

By Mark Woolley Mark Woolley is the owner and creative director of Electric Hairdressing.

preparation. The hair should have a clean,

Get the look This was one of my favourite looks from the awards season. Charlize Theron added a special touch to her look by accessorising her wavy, textured updo with a diamond encrusted headband; diamonds are optional, rhinestones. Pearls or patterned headbands work just as well. Step one: Whilst the hair is still damp, spray some L’Oreal Professionnel Tecni Art Pli through the lengths to aid styling and lock in shape and texture. Step two: Create a rough centre parting, then taking small sections of hair, wrap them around some Denman Self-Grip Hair Rollers and allow to cool naturally before removing. Step three: Rub some Electric Serum between your hands before running your ﬁngers through the hair to help break up the waves and add shine. Step four: Loosely gather the hair into a low side pony and twist into a bun. Secure with plenty of grips so it stays secure, then use your palms to help rufﬂe the bun to enhance the texture. Finally, slide in a headband of your choice and you’re red carpet ready! For further details on Mark Woolley, Electric Haircare or any of the salons in the Electric group view the website www.electric-hair.com

ABSOLUTE

B0312_044 Mark WoolleyMAR12.indd1 1

20/2/12 18:13:51

ABSOLUTE LIVING

It pays to be thrifty A survey shows that one in ten Brightonian men now think ‘women should pick up the bill on a first date’ and that over a third of couples choose to take it in turns to pay when dining out. MoneySupermarket Deals investigates ‘bill etiquette’ in our city

ith many of us feeling the pinch at the moment, there are still some luxuries it seems, the men and women of Brighton aren’t prepared to give up. Research from MoneySupermarket Deals (a new offering from the price comparison website), has revealed that over three quarters (76%) of people think the price of food and drink in the city has increased in the last two years. Yet thrifty residents of Brighton are still enjoying a busy social life despite this rising cost, with nearly a third (30%) of respondents admitting to still dining out at least once a week. Quite a good sign for the city’s economy! There is a way to make the most of your money without cutting corners. The trend for dining out on money saving vouchers has been on the up in recent months, but far from feeling embarrassed when presenting a money-off voucher in a restaurant, couples in Brighton are embracing this feel-good trend. The research has shown that Brightonian’s wouldn’t pass judgement on a first date if the person they were dining with used a money saving voucher to settle the bill; in fact, 65% said that they wouldn’t mind at all! This also extended to couples already in a relationship, who confessed that they would be pleased if their partner brought a voucher for dinner as it would show they’re looking after their finances. When looking at the etiquette for bill paying with a voucher, it appears the rules change depending upon the occasion and who you’re with. It appears it would have been acceptable to use a restaurant voucher for a special occasion, such as Valentine’s Day or a birthday, with 65% of people saying they wouldn’t have minded this happening, and nearly a fifth (16%)

of people would actually be impressed with such thriftiness. Nearly one in ten (9%) people would have even seen it as a way of being able to choose a more expensive option on the menu without feeling cheeky or guilty! The research has unveiled a shift in perceptions with over one in ten men in the area (14%) saying they would now expect their love interest to pick up the restaurant bill on a first date. Similarly, fewer women than may have been anticipated (14%) said that they would expect their date to pick up the tab. When eating out with friends, nearly half (49%) of Brightonians said they would split the bill evenly, no matter what they consumed personally. But for couples in Brighton the etiquette is to take it in turns to pay (46%), rather than splitting the bill evenly (26%). Mark Guymer, Head of MoneySupermarket

Deals says: “Our research has shown that Brightonians enjoy eating out and treating themselves and their loved ones, despite rising living costs! It’s interesting to see that a fifth of people in the city would be impressed if a potential partner showed such thriftiness on a special occasion by using a money saving voucher. ”

‘MoneySupermarket Local Deals’ is a new section of the price comparison website offering consumers huge discounts of up to 90% on a range of products and experiences in major cities across the UK. For more information and to sign up for MoneySupermarket Deals, visit MoneySupermarket Deals www.moneysupermarket.com/deals

ABSOLUTE

B0312_045 Brighton etiquette.ind1 1

21/2/12 17:40:16

NEWSXTRA THE HOTTEST HOSTESSES ARE CHOSEN! 20 glamorous hostesses chosen for Rendezvous Casino’s new Red Lounge

fter three rounds of tough challenges and interviews, Rendezvous Casino

can now announce that it has selected 20 glamorous girls to be the new Red Lounge hostesses (pictured). It’s one of the most sought after jobs in Brighton’s hospitality industry and at the auditions the competition was fierce! The Red Lounge at Brighton Marina’s Rendezvous Casino is having a fresh and exciting make over and will be home to the all new Red Casino Challenge where the hostesses will look after its customers, both in the bar and in the brand new challenge and interactive zone. The girls, who are now having five weeks of training in preparation for their new role, were at the Casino last month to be given a makeup tutorial by a top makeup artist and to take part in a stunning photo shoot. Ann- Marie Hackett, marketing manager at the Rendezvous, said: “We were overwhelmed by the number of fantastic girls and boys who turned up to our auditions over the last few weeks and choosing the best to represent us was no easy task. The hostesses we have chosen truly are some of the most enthusiastic and vibrant young people in Brighton. “It was great to see all of our new team together for a beautiful photo shoot; the hostesses look as fantastic in real life as they do in their pictures. These girls are The Bunny Girls coming to Brighton to launch Rendezvous Casino’s brand new gaming and entertainment experience on the 29th March 2012. This exciting and glamorous event will see the launch of the brand new Red Lounge. If you’re looking for amazing food, fabulous cocktails and the ultimate fun gaming experience then The Red Lounge is the venue for you. The question is, are you ready to roll with it? For guest list for this event please call 01273 258 233

set to be the most popular girls in the city and we can’t wait to open the all new Red Lounge.” The new Red Lounge & Red Casino Challenge will be revealed on 29th March.

ABSOLUTE

B0312_046 NEWS1 MAR2012.indd 1

21/2/12 17:44:24

NEWSXTRA SKERRITTS WINS TOP FINANCIAL PLANNING AWARD

News items brought to you by Mo Hunter-Shine mo@absolutemagazine.co.uk

RECORD NUMBER OF RUNNERS IN THE BRIGHTON HALF MARATHON 2012 Richard Skerritt

Female winner, Fiona Powell

Male winner, Matthew Dumigan

itywire, the top London-based source of financial news and fund performance for professionals

was once again named Sussex financial adviser Skerritts Chartered Financial Planning, as the top firm for financial planning and advice in the south. The award scheme is managed by Citywire’s magazine New Model Adviser which, as its name suggests, is a beacon for the new sort of financial planning and advice that is fit for the world we live in today. Big changes are afoot in 2013 when the Financial Services Authority’s Retail Distribution Review ( RDR) comes into force and bans commissions. Skerritts is ahead of the game and its team of experienced, qualified advisers has been offering transparent, feebased advice for years. As well as being the only firm in the south ever to win a New Model Adviser award two years in a row, Skerritts has become one of the elite few financial planning firms to win Chartered status from the Chartered Institute of Insurance. Chartered status is only given to firms that can prove their commitment to the CII code of ethics and conduct. Just 3% of nearly 12,000 financial planners have achieved it. “It’s important to understand your options and opportunities, no matter how large or small your investment pot is, ” said Richard Skerritt. “Call us anytime or drop in – the coffee is always brewing.” Find out more at www.skerrits.co.uk.

lue skies and sunshine welcomed 7,427 runners to the 22nd edition of the Brighton Half Marathon last month. Organised by and the main fundraiser for Brighton based charity The Sussex Beacon, the Brighton Half Marathon had been growing steadily over the last couple of years and the 2012 race sold out in record time with all 10,500 places snapped up by November 2011. With David Wardle not present to defend his title from the previous two years, Ian Leitch from Phoenix AC went into the race as a favourite to win, but it was Matthew Dumigan from Swansea Harriers who crossed the line first. Ian Leitch came second, followed by Josh Guilmant. Local runner Fiona Powell from Brighton & Hove City AC managed to pull off the hat trick and won her third

consecutive title in the race. Runner up and first in the F40 category was Julie Briggs from Arena 80 AC with Sarah Kingston from Fittleworth Flyers taking 3rd place. The Youth Races saw a record number of 353 young runners cover one mile on Madeira Drive, all wearing the official Youth Race t-shirts with the winning t-shirt competition design by Samuel Blackwell on the back of the Brooks Sports technical t-shirts. The Brighton Half Marathon organisers would like to say a big thank you to all the sponsors, partners, supporters, volunteers and everyone who took part and contributed to the success of the race. Please go to www,brightonhalfmarathon.com for the full results, photos and to register your interest for the 2013 Brighton Half Marathon.

ABSOLUTE

B0312_047 NEWS2 MAR2012.indd 1

21/2/12 17:54:18

50% OFF FOOD WE ALSO HAVE LIVE OPERA Wednesday to Saturday Evenings Starters – NOW ½ PRICE @ £1.98 Soup of the day Choux de Crab with Ginger, Chillies and Citrus Hollandaise Grilled Sardines - Tomato Coulis and Walnuts Moules Mariniere with Shallots, Garlic, White Wine and Fresh Parsley Baked Garlic Mushrooms Stuffed with Soft Cheese and Spinach (V) Warm Salad of Honey Glazed Goat Cheese – Cherry Tomato Jam (V) Parsons Pastry - Smoked Chicken, Mushrooms and Herbs in Filo Pastry Classic Prawn Cocktail with Avocado, New Potatoes and Marie-Rose Sauce

Main Courses – NOW ½ PRICE @ £4.48 Penne Arrabiata (V) Organic Lamb Meat Balls - Tomato Sauce and Cauliflower Mornay Confit Leg of Duck with Braised Puy Lentils and Pak Choi Grilled Beef Burger - 100% Aberdeen Angus Beef with Cheese and Goose Fat-fried Chips Grilled Lamb Steak - Celeriac Purée and Red Wine Jus Chicken Breast Stuffed with Minted Lamb – Green Beans and Port Wine Jus Roasted Fillet of Plaic Plaice with Chorizo – Broccoli, New Potatoes & Crème Fraiche Roasted Fillet of Salmon - Paprika Potatoes, Green Beans and Dill Sauce Vegetable Moussaka – Ripe Tomato Sauce & Macedonian Salad (V) Escalope of Pork stuffed with Soft Cheese - Paprika Potatoes & Mushroom Sauce

Desserts – NOW ½ PRICE @ £1.98 Apple Cake with Vanilla Ice Cream (V) Profiteroles with Banana Cream and Hot Chocolate sauce (V) Chocolate Log with Poached Pear and Vanilla Ice Cream (V) White Chocolate and Pistachio Parfait (V) Cheese Platter (V)

EVERY SUNDAY WE DO ROAST MEAT WITH ROAST POTATOES, VEGETABLES AND YORKSHIRE PUDDING

LITTLE BAY BRIGHTON

brighton@littlebay.co.uk

B0312_048 ADS.indd 1

60-64 Kings Road Brighton BN1 1NA

01273 731 330 www.littlebay.co.uk

21/2/12 12:32:08

ABSOLUTE best

restaurants and bars...

Reflections Restaurant and bar Rendezvous Casino Brighton Marina Tel: 01273 605602 www.rendezvouscasino.com/ brighton

Havana Restaurant and bar 32 Duke Street Brighton Marina Tel: 01273 773388

Terre a terre Vegetarian and vegan 71 East Street Brighton BN1 1HQ Tel: 01273 729051

English's Of Brighton Classic Seafood Restaurant 29-31 East Street Brighton Tel: 01273 327980

Reflections Alexander House Hotel Fine Dining Turners Hill East Grinstead Tel: 01342 714914

Chilli Pickle Indian cuisine 42 Meeting House Lane Brighton Tel: 01273 323824

Jamie's Italian Italian cuisine 11 Black Lion Street Brighton Tel: 01273 915480

Castle Inn Hotel British Cuisine The Street Bramber Tel: 01903 812102

Buddies 24-hour dining 46-48 Kings Road Brighton Tel: 01273 323600

Street Thai Thai cuisine 5 & 20 Brighton Square Brighton Tel: 01273 207444

The Gallery Bistro Fine Cuisine 115 Church Road Hove Tel: 01273 777488

Crown and Anchor Homemade British pub cuisine High Street Shoreham Tel: 01273 463500

Ginger Fox Gastro pub Henfield Rd, Albourne, Nr Brighton Tel: 01273 857888

Merkaba - Myhotel Hotel Bar 17 Jubilee Street Brighton Tel: 01273 900300

The Royal Oak Fine Cuisine Poynings West Sussex Tel: 01273 857389

C么te Brighton French Bistro 115 116 Church Street Brighton Tel: 01273 687541

Terraces Bar and grill Madeira Drive Brighton Tel: 01273 570526 Green Mango Thai cuisine 8 Church Road Hove Tel: 01273 327226

The Connaught Pub and Kitchen 48 Hove Street Hove Tel: 01273 206578

Buxted Park Fine dining hotel restaurant Buxted East Sussex Tel: 01825 733333 Days Restaurant Oriental cuisine 75-79 East Street Brighton Tel: 01273 748888

Coast to Coast American Dining 3, The Waterfront Brighton Marina Tel: 01273 626170

Bohemia Grand Caf茅 and Late Lounge Freshly home cooked modern cuisine 54-55 Meeting House Lane Brighton. 01273 777770

Havana Spoon Brasserie Bar 70-72 Church Road Hove 01273 651651

Hotel du Vin Hotel and Bistro Ship Street Brighton Tel: 01273 718588

Tipaza Tapas Restaurant 104 Western Road Hove Tel: 01273 777307

The Coach House Homemade fine dining 59 Middle Street Brighton Tel: 01273 719000

The Dyke Pub and Kitchen 218 Dyke Road Brighton Tel: 01273 555672

In Vino Veritas Tapas and bistro dining 103 North Road Brighton Tel: 01273 622522

The Townhouse Contemporary British cuisine 81-82 St Jamess St Brighton Tel: 01273 693216 The Chequers Inn British Cuisine Slaugham Haywards Heath Tel: 01444 400400

ABSOLUTE

B02312_049 Listings MAR 2012.ind1 1

21/2/12 12:44:58

FACES & PLACES

Fabulous

FELLINI Fellini Trattoria and Bar in Church Road,

Hove, held its official VIP launch recently. It was an evening of authentic Italian food and a celebration of Felliniâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s support for the

Cool music from Rich Lown

Chestnut Tree House Hospice. Ralph and Louise Gilbert

Federico is the co-owner and vision behind this exciting new venue in the heart of Hove.

Federico Ceccarelli with Chris Goodman and Ralph Gilbert

He welcomed guests and let them know more about the concept of Fellini and upcoming events planned. Pictures Graham Franks Elliott Maurice and Kristin Kreimes Actor Brian and Jacqueline Capron

Elaine and Chris Goodman

Sue Popper from Joogleberry Acts and Caraline Brown of Midnight Communications

Alan Busby and Ceriann Purssey Lisa and Ed Chapman

Katie Lincoln, Mike Punter and Abi Owen

Emma Jarmaine and Federico Ceccarelli

Heather Armstrong and Christine Trotman

Federico Ceccarelli and the Fellini team

ABSOLUTE

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16/2/12 14:29:41

FEELING BETTER International Life Coach comes to Brighton to help women cope with the stresses of life

woman who has advised government leaders worldwide on strategic thinking and personal development is heading to Brighton with a special workshop for women.

Claire Chidley, an internationally renowned author, teacher and trainer, is visiting the town with a one-day workshop on Sunday, March 4th, aimed at helping women make the changes they need to become happier and less weighed down by the stresses and strains of everyday life. In a career spanning 30 years, Claire has addressed and advised Government leadership programmes in Taiwan, private sector CEOs in Florida and academics in Bilbao, Spain and has also worked extensively with the UK’s public, private and charitable sectors. Now, she is hoping to share her skills and experience with women from all walks of life who may feel stuck in a rut or lacking confidence and belief in their own abilities. “Sometimes women lose sight of themselves and what makes them content and fulfilled simply because life takes over,” says Claire. “They get bogged down in jobs they don’t really like but can’t afford to leave, or they give up work to bring up their families and then find themselves floundering when the children leave home. “Life doesn’t have to be grey and joyless – and my workshops will set them back on track and help them rediscover what matters most to them.” Claire’s four-date Empowering Women Tour 2012 will consist of workshops in which she will help women look at how they manage their feelings and how they communicate with others. There will also be group and individual activities to help them identify what makes them happy and show them how they can re-structure their lives to make them more fulfilling. Claire, whose tour is based on her acclaimed self-help book 360° Wisdom: A Guide to Discovering You, and coincides with International Women’s Day on March 8, said: “The workshops aren’t about encouraging women to make drastic, Shirley Valentine-style changes necessarily.” Tickets for the 2012 workshops cost £50 or £40 for concessions. Visit the 360° Wisdom website at www.360wisdom.co.uk

B0312_051 ad_edit.indd 1

21/2/12 21:22:45

ABSOLUTE FOOD AND DRINK

Bringing Bohemia to Brighton! New Grand Café and Late Lounge opens its glamorous doors in The Lanes

eautifully arranged over three floors, Bohemia is an establishment like never seen before in Brighton. It will deliver a full breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea menu in the Grand Café whilst the Late Lounge will offer a luxurious night out. Aimed firmly at the discerning 25 plus set, Bohemia’s late lounge is certain to create quite a stir. Set in the historic Lanes, the venue has undergone a complete refurb taking much of the building back to its former beauty and restoring many of its original features from windows to brickwork. Elements of the West Pier have been discretely incorporated keeping ‘Brighton’ at the heart of its design. Owners, Verity & Paul have designed this project from beginning to end, with a hands-on approach. During the day the Grand Café will serve a full menu for breakfast, lunch and afternoon cream tea in a variety of settings including ‘the library’ on the balcony where guests can enjoy the leather arm chairs, read newspapers, use wifi and eat or drink, just as they can in the downstairs main bar where there is a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere with the centre island bar being the main focal point thus creating a socialble area where guests and bar people interact with no wall or bar-back separating them. Here is also where on Thursdays The Jazz Lounge will take place; a free weekly event where guests can enjoy locally sourced, smooth live jazz acts. At the front of the venue, guests can enjoy sitting in the heart of the Lanes where tables and chairs sit on the cobbled streets (heaters and blankets are provided for cooler months). Once again, guests can enjoy the creations of some of Brighton’s top chefs in this area of the venue. Adrian Geddes (formerly of Blanch House and Graze) heads the kitchen team at Bohemia. Upstairs, the roof terrace has been turned into a beautiful glass walled Veuve Clicquot champagne

B0312_052 Bohemia edit.indd 1

roof garden with astro turf flooring to give the impression of a society garden party. Here guests can also take lunch or breakfast. By night, this glazed area will be backlit with a green hue to increase the illusion of being in a garden. This has to be seen to be believed! Near to the Veuve Clicquot roof garden is the Champagne Late Lounge which features laid back booth-seating giving a real house party feel while listening to some funky bar grooves – on vinyl of course. This unique space will feature the ‘Barman’s Table’ where a highly skilled barman invites guests to enjoy a private gin, vodka, rum or champagne ‘experience’ and sample a range of leading brands whilst learning more about their history. This will be a great space to book for a private party or just as a VIP area, having a personal barman for the night. Set to serve the best cocktails in town, ‘molecular cocktails’ will also be served; artistic, beautiful with tastes that will tantalise and possibly confuse taste buds. So, from superb breakfasts to magnificent lunches followed by a traditional Sussex afternoon cream tea and then world class cocktails and live jazz in the evening, Bohemia invites you to come early and stay late in the most stylish surroundings Brighton has ever seen.

Bohemia Grand Café and Late Lounge 54-55 Meeting House Lane, Brighton. For reservations, call: 01273 777770 www.bohemiabrighton.co.uk @bohemiabrighton

21/2/12 13:05:40

Bohemia

Grand Cafe â?&#x2013; Late Lounge

NOW OPEN... we look forward to serving you! www.bohemiabrighton.co.uk 54-55 Meeting House Lane, Brighton Telephone: 01273 777770 Follow us on facebook and twitter B0312 053 Bohemia ad.indd 1

20/2/12 17:26:20

ABSOLUTE RECIPES

ALL SAINTS DAYS St David’s Day and St Patrick’s Day both occur in March, so indulge in the best of British!

Lamb casserole with shallots and Chantenay carrots

HAPPY ST DAVID’S DAY Thursday 1st March

For centuries the first of March has been a national festival in wales. St David was recognised as a national patron saint at the height of Welsh resistance to the Normans, so enjoy some beautiful welsh lamb to commemorate this day. HAPPY ST PATRICK’S DAY Saturday 17th March

Nobody knows how to party like the Irish, and St Patrick’s Day is one of the liveliest days of the year. In Britain, many local pubs, restaurants and food shops will have special menus and special offers showcasing the finest products Ireland has to offer. In Chicago breweries will be dying the beer green and there’ll be big city parades throughout the rest of America. Serves 4 Preparation time: 20 minutes Cooking time: ½ - 2 hours Ingredients: 800g lamb neck fillet, cut into 2.5cm cubes 750g potatoes, peeled and cut into large chunks 12 shallots, peeled and left whole 250g Chantenay carrots 2 tbsp flour 2 tbsp olive oil 500ml hot water 2 bay leaves 1 sprig of rosemary 1 clove garlic, crushed 2 tbsp Worcester sauce Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Method: 1. Preheat the oven to 170°C/Gas 3. 2. Put the flour on a plate and season with salt and pepper. Roll the cubes of lamb in the flour to cover them lightly all over. 3. In a large frying pan or oven proof casserole, add the olive oil and fry the lamb a few cubes at a time over a high heat to brown it on all sides – it is worth making sure you get a good bit of colour on the meat as this will really improve the flavour of the dish. As the lamb is browned, remove to a plate and continue until it is all done. 4. In the same pan, adding a little more oil if necessary, fry the whole peeled shallots until they are slightly brown. 5. Return the lamb to the casserole and add the potatoes, herbs, garlic, Worcester sauce and hot water, giving everything a good stir

and scraping the bottom to get off all the sticky caramelized bits that will add so much flavour. If you started browning the meat and shallots in a frying pan this is the time to transfer it to an oven proof casserole. Bring to the boil, put the lid on and cook in the oven for an hour. 6. Remove the casserole after an hour and add the carrots and taste to check the seasoning – adding a little more salt and pepper if necessary. Cover and return to the oven for 30 minutes to an hour, or until the lamb is really tender. 7. Serve immediately - this is a meal in itself but you may want some crusty bread to soak up the juices. For more recipes using shallotts visit www.UKShallot.com

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20/2/12 13:19:42

ABSOLUTE RECIPES

St. Patrick’s Pasties Serves 4 Prep: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Bacon wrapped Chicken stuffed with Blue Cheese Serves 4 Prep: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes Ingredients 4 chicken breasts 100g Crozier blue cheese 4 rashers of thinly sliced bacon 1 tbsp olive oil 15g flat leaf parsley finely chopped Gravy 2 shallots thinly sliced 1 tbsp olive oil 2 tbsp plain flour 250ml cider 250ml chicken stock 1 tbsp cider vinegar

Colcannon 2lbs large red potatoes 50g butter 2 tbsp milk 200g savoy cabbage 4 spring onions

Method 1. Preheat oven to 200°c. Peel and chop the potatoes into 2.5cm/1 inch chunks. Boil in a large pot of salted water. Cook for 15 minutes until tender and then drain. Return the potato pan,

add the butter and roughly mash until combined. 2. Season with salt and pepper, add the milk and mash again until fluffy and light. Add the spring onions and mix to combine. Blanch the savoy cabbage in boiling salted water for 2 minutes, drain, rinsed in cold water and then drain again. Add to the potatoes and cook until heated through. 3. Make a small incision into the side of each chicken breast. Slice the cheese into 4 pieces. Push the cheese inside, season with salt and pepper. Wrap the bacon around the outside and secure with a toothpick. Heat the oil in a frying pan. Sear the breasts until browned on both sides. Place in a baking tray and cook for 15 minutes. 4. Using the same frying pan as chicken breasts, add the oil, shallots and salt and pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes and then add the flour. Whisk for 1 minute and then add the vinegar, cider and stock. Keep whisking for 5 minutes until it becomes thick and glossy. Serve the chicken with the potatoes, gravy and parsley sprinkled over.

Ingredients: 400g Grass-fed rump steak from Ireland 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 medium onion chopped 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 1 tsp ground coriander, 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar 400ml beef stock 2 large red potatoes peeled 50g frozen peas 500g shortcrust pastry 1 egg beaten for brushing Method: 1. Preheat oven 200°c. In a large frying pan with a fitted lid, heat 1 tbsp of the oil. Season the beef and sear on all sides. Remove from the pan and add the onion, thyme and some seasoning. Sauté for 5 minutes and then add the beef, coriander, Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and stock. Cook for 15 minutes on medium heat with a lid on. Remove the lid and let it reduce another 15 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed. Pour into a bowl and refrigerate to cool down. 2. Cut the potatoes into 2cm cubes and blanch in boiling salted water for 1 minute. Drain and rinse in cold water. Add to the beef and pour the peas in. Gently mix together. 3. Slice the pastry into 8 pieces. Roll out each into a 5 inch circle on a floured surface. Divide the cold filling into the centre of each and brush the edges with egg. Bring the pastry around the filling and pinch it in the centre. Press the edges tightly together, sealing it completely. Use your fingers to create a ruffled seam. Brush them all with egg when done and place on a baking tray. 5. Bake for 30 minutes or until golden.

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21/2/12 13:18:58

ABSOLUTE FOOD AND DRINK

Nuts about Strawberries Celebrate the arrival of spring with Viva Strawberry and Macadamia Blondies These are a great alternative to the traditional

Method:

chocolate brownie. Bursting with strawberries,

1. Heat the oven to 180C. Line a baking tin

chocolate and nuts, these simple cake squares are

(approx 22cm square) with grease proof paper.

ideal with a coffee or as a dessert served with

In a pan, melt the butter and cook on a low heat

vanilla ice cream.

for 5 minutes until the white solids start to turn golden. Pour into a cold bowl then add half of

Makes 16 squares

the chocolate and stir until melted.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

2. In a separate bowl whisk together the eggs

Cooking time: 30 Minutes

and sugar until they are thick and golden. Tip in the flour, a pinch of salt and the chocolatey

Ingredients:

butter and fold in with a spatula until smooth.

125g unsalted butter

3. Tip in the strawberries, nuts and remaining

200g white chocolate, chopped

chocolate and stir briefly. Pour the mixture into

100g light muscovado sugar

the tin and bake for 30 minutes. The blondies are

2 eggs

done when they have a light golden crust but are

130g plain flour

still a little squidgy inside.

pinch of salt

4. Allow to cool in the tin then cut into squares.

120g Viva strawberries, chopped 100g macadamia nuts, roughly chopped

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22/2/12 14:23:45

ABSOLUTE LOCAL HISTORY Brighton Marina

HMS Sussex

Picture courtesy of www.visitbrighton.com

PRINNY’S INHERITANCE Tim Parker tells us of the great Magnus Volks, who gave Brighton the beautiful little seafront railway

he Prince Regent did not just leave Brighton his fantastical Palace, the Royal Pavilion, he also left us his inquiring and restless spirit. How else can the extraordinary development of our city since his death in 1830, the marvellous architecture of our seafront houses, our theatres, the Dome and much else, be explained? Before Prinny died, he had already given his support to the building of the Royal Suspension Chain Pier, completed in 1823. It was the first major pier built in Brighton, designed by a Naval Captain, one Samuel Brown RN. The pier was primarily intended as a landing stage for packet boats to France. Brighton, in those days, was one of the principal ports for cross channel traffic. And then came the Railway, a remarkable feat of engineering and organisation. The Brighton line, which included the Balcombe Tunnel and Macotta’s marvellous viaduct just north of Hayward’s Heath, was built in just two years at a cost of £2 million. The railway connected 58

Brighton to London and two magnificent hotels The Grand and The Metropole, with views of the sea, opened for business. By the late 19th Century Brighton was a busy bustling place, famous throughout the world for its architecture, its engineers, its race meetings, its hotels and entertainment - at one time Brighton had no less than four circuses. Sea bathing had become fashionable as a cure for all kinds of ailments. And while in those days overseas travel was for the very few, the grand Brighton seaside hotels offered their customers not only the sea, but an escape from reality; banquets, balls, sightseeing, gambling, and a day at the races followed by an evening at the theatre. These hotels offered an extraordinary standard of service and for a relatively modest fee the middle classes could live like lords and ladies. Among the many engineers living in Brighton was the pioneering British Electrical Engineer Magnus Volk notable for building the world’s

first and now oldest electric railway and what better place to put it than along the Brighton seafront? Had Prinny been alive there is simply no doubt that he would have loved the ride. I can picture him fat and beaming, waving to the crowds on the railway’s inaugural run. Magnus Volk, the son of a German clock maker, was born in Brighton on 19th October 1851. In 1879 he married one Anna Banfield from Burgess Hill. One of his sons was a noted pioneer builder of seaplanes, another wrote a biography of his father, and his great grandson is the musician Joe Volk. Following Magnus’s success with his seafront railway, he had another idea. What about extending his line to Rottingdean? However, running the line along the under-cliff would have been highly dangerous, due to the unstable nature of the chalk and running it the other way, along the top of the South Downs, would be extremely expensive. Furthermore, would his engines have sufficient

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ABSOLUTE LOCAL HISTORY “Extend the Volks

The Volks Railway

Picture courtesy of www.visitbrighton.com

Railway line to the centre on the Marina. It would bring in lots

more visitors...” power to breast the hills? But Magnus, never short of ideas, came up with a solution. He would create a railway tram that would run through the sea fitted with two trolley bus poles which would hold a wire to provide electricity. Somehow Volks managed to raise the necessary funds and soon his Electric Sea Railway, known as The Daddy Long Legs, was born. It must have been the strangest sight people had ever seen on our Sussex Coast! The line that Magnus constructed ran from Paston Place through the surf to Rottingdean, which was also the home of the Volks Seaplane Station run by his son George Herbert. It took two years to construct the track and build the single car that was to be used on the railway. The car weighed 45 tons, was 45ft long and 22ft wide. The tram, for that is what it was, had a sea captain in charge, lifeboats and other safety measures in place. Finally, after many difficulties, on 28th November 1896, Daddy Long Legs set sail for the first voyage, or should I say motored, from its station at Paston place to Rottingdean. The railway proved popular but in strong tides the car was slowed almost to a standstill. Then in 1901, following a combination of beach erosion and a council decision on beach protection, the line was sadly closed. A costly enterprise for Magnus, but what a marvellous short burst of fun for Brighton. The war years and the Great Depression did The ‘Daddy Longlegs’

little good for Brighton, but the 1950s and 60s saw a renaissance of the seaside town so beloved by the Prince Regent. The Council sold some of its land at Stanmer Park so that a new university could be built. American Express opened its doors and then, in 1962, one Henry Cohen, the owner of a motor business had a great idea. One day, sailing past Black Rock he thought how good it would be if he could moor his boat at Brighton. Within a year Henry, an energetic and engaging man, had submitted his proposals for a Marina to Brighton Council. Securing permission was a long haul - questions in Parliament, a town poll and much debate - but against all the odds Taylor Woodrow began building what was to become a marvellous harbour, although it sometimes seemed that the gales and high seas would sweep it all away. There is no doubt that the Marina has brought great pleasure and employment to many in our city and not just the yachtsmen. On a summer’s

evening the broad walk will be packed with people enjoying the view and the variety of entertainment on offer. There are a range of restaurants, a hotel, a casino, a leisure centre, a yacht club, shops and much more, together with some 1,500 boats moored in a wonderful and secure harbour. The Marina has finally become a community but the piecemeal nature of its development over many years means that it is still to realise its full potential. Andrew Goodall’s latest plans for the Marina are bold and include a forty storey tower a quarter of a mile out to sea. So what happens next? How many years will it be before the bankers will be prepared to lend? It could be ages. But here is an idea, and I wish Magnus were around to give us a hand; extend the Volks Railway line to the centre of the Marina; it would bring in lots more visitors and I am sure that with goodwill on all sides the project could be completed within a year. Let’s take Prinny’s example and see to it. ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE PROMOTIONAL FEATURE

Sail away to France or Spain For a get away with a difference, take a look at France or Spain with Brittany Ferries from your nearby port of Portsmouth. It’s so easy to get to, and because you can take your car with you, there’s no hassle, not to mention extra costs for parking. Better still, with their on board service and facilities, you’ll find it’s a great alternative to flying Fabulous France and Spain With spring just around the corner, now’s the perfect time to visit either of these superb destinations and enjoy their culinary, cultural and scenic delights. In France, explore Normandy’s medieval towns such as Caen, Bayeux and even the magnificent Mont St Michel, or simply relax in some of Brittany’s tranquil coastal resorts such as St Malo and Dinard. All are within an easy drive of Brittany Ferries’ arrival ports. Or for a taste of ‘real’ Spain, take an overnight cruise aboard one of their luxurious cruise ferries to Bilbao or Santander and discover the delights of northern Spain. With a mix of magnificent mountain peaks, lush green countryside and long sandy beaches; it’s a destination not to be missed! Getting there is easy Taking you direct to some of the best holiday regions of France and Spain, with Brittany Ferries you’ll arrive far closer to where you want to be, saving you miles of driving through northern France and money on fuel, tolls and overnight stops. Sail to France with Brittany Ferries by day, overnight, or with their seasonal high-speed services, which will whisk you over in as little as 3 hours from the end of March – ideal for a quick spring break, or even just a day out. To Spain, you can sail to Santander or Bilbao with a choice of 4 return sailings a week. And if that’s not enough, you can even mix and match any of their sailings and plan an itinerary that’s just right for you. Need somewhere to

B0312_060 BRITTANY FERRIES REPRO1 1

stay too? Then check out Brittany Ferries’ superb range of easy to organise breaks and holidays, with hand-picked accommodation and prices including your return sailings. Welcome aboard Probably the best thing about Brittany Ferries is that it doesn’t feel like a ferry at all. More like a cruise ship, you’ll find a choice of dining, with sumptuous a la carte and great value self-service menus, delightful cafes, and stylish bars often hosting live entertainment or sports. Or what about catching a film at the cinema, or even doing a spot of shopping in the chic onboard boutiques? And when you want to relax, you can retire to the comfort of your very own en-suite cabin.

Breaks to France and Spain this spring with Brittany Ferries: France Day trips to France from £23pp French hotel breaks – 2 nights from £99pp Family fun in France – 4 nights from £61pp Spain Spanish coast and mountain escapes 5 nights away from £193pp Santander cruise and stay 5 nights away from £229pp Luxurious Spanish Paradors 5 nights away from £267pp For full details visit brittanyferries.com/brighton or call 0871 244 0409 Calls cost 10p per minute plus network extras

21/2/12 17:58:53

ABSOLUTE WHATS ON

any dream will do... An evening with Lee Mead at Worthing Assembly Halll in March

inner of TV’s Any Dream Will Do, star of West End smash Joseph and fresh from London’s latest box office hit Wicked. . . Lee Mead is bringing his live show to town. Lee performs hits from his West End triumphs and songs from both his double-gold debut album and his brandnew album Love Songs, released last month. Coinciding with the release, Lee is taking to the road, embarking upon the nationwide Love Tour. He is joined by his talented band and West End star Louise Dearman. Love Songs features much-loved favourites such as Anthem, The Garden, She, Your Song, I Believe (When I Fall in Love) and Fix You.

THE JAZZ LOUNGE A free weekly sophisticated night held every Thursday at Bohemia, as arranged by Joogleberry Acts March 2012 programme 8th March Alison David Many in the music world are already aware of the distinctive voice of Alison David and certainly anyone who has seen her perform will find it hard to forget her. Alison commands attention with an enchanting, magical, stage presence, a beautiful voice and wide repertoire of gorgeous jazz songs. www.joogleberry.com/acts/alison-david 15th March Jo Rose Jo Rose’s evocative voice, and compelling stagecraft, has seen her dubbed one of the most exciting singers of her generation. From prestigious festival performers and headlining prestigious London clubs Jo and her top class band have also been supporting artists such as Average White Band. www.joogleberry.com/acts/johanna-harman 22nd March Shelley Marie From intimate jazz clubs, to international festivals, to London’s Royal Albert Hall,

An Evening with Lee Mead

Shelley has mesmerised audiences with her vocal performances. “A real star” said

Saturday 10th March 7.30pm Assembly Hall Stoke Abbott Road, Worthing Tickets: £20, £22.50, £25 Box office:01903 206206

29th March Just the Two of Us feat Jo Arrowsmith (duo)

www.worthingtheatres.co.uk www.easytheatres.com

Rendezvous Casino, Brighton, after her recent performance there. Gorgeous soulful voiced singer Joanne Arrowsmith joins forces with talented Chris Behan for a repertoire of soul, jazz, cocktail and pop classics. www.joogleberry.com/acts/joanne-arrowsmith Bohemia, 54-55 Meeting House Lane, Brighton. Follow Bohemia on Twitter and Facebook. For enquiries about the Jazz Lounge at Bohemia, please call: 01273 777770.

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ABSOLUTE WHATS ON

La Boheme in Brighton

A stunning portayal of the famous opera at the Theatre Royal, Brighton

llen Kent’s spring opera tour visits Brighton in March, with a brand new production of La Boheme.

Madame Butterfly and La Traviata delighted audiences back in October 2011 and the new tour adds the romantic and emotional La Boheme. The internationally acclaimed Ukrainian National Opera of Kharkiv, joined by a host of handpicked soloists from across the world, has been singing to rave reviews. After a two-year break to concentrate on other projects, Ellen’s comeback tour has proved a triumph – prompting packed theatres and sackfuls of good-will messages. The new production of La Boheme features a few surprises alongside the stunning sets and glorious music. For further information on the 75-date UK and Ireland tour of Madama Butterfly, La Traviata and La Boheme, go to www.ellenkent.com or Derek Block Classical Arts on Facebook, or follow Kent on Twitter @DBClassicalArts. La Boheme 26th March 2012 at 7.45pm Theatre Royal Brighton New Road, Brighton To book tickets call the box office on 08448 606650.

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20/2/12 13:30:41

ABSOLUTE WHATS ON

Make a wish... Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash perform live at Trading Boundaries

rading Boundaries in Sheffield Park, is to play host to a blast from the past when they welcome Martin Turner’s Wishbone Ash, who will be performing in The Elephant Café on Saturday 24th March With millions of album sales and concert attendances worldwide, Wishbone Ash’s heritage as one of the best loved British rock acts is assured. Forty years on, the enduring music of the classic marks of Wishbone Ash continues to delight audiences worldwide through both live performances and a rich legacy of recorded work that continues to be enjoyed by fans old and new. Classic album releases such as Argus, Pilgrimage, There’s the Rub, New England and Live Dates defined the Wishbone Ash sound and have touched the hearts of several generations of music fans.

Get the inside track for the Festival at the betfred Cheltenham Preview Evening at Plumpton Racecourse Plumpton Racecourse is repeating its very popular betfred Cheltenham Festival Preview Evening on Friday, 9th March, featuring a panel of distinguished racing celebrities including Richard Hoiles and Mick Fitzgerald, betting

Wishbone Ash Saturday 24th March 2012 Trading Boundaries, Sheffield Park Tickets: £48 including a two-course dinner Exclusive stage view seating: £58 (suitable for groups of 4/5) Limited standing tickets available: £24 Call box office to book- 01825 790200

My Favourite Toy exhibition The exhibition curated with E the help of children and

veryone has a favourite toy. They inspire our imaginations and our play, and in later

local young people

FESTIVAL FEVER

years hold cherished memories and make us nostalgic for times gone by. This new family friendly exhibition at Hove Museum & Art Gallery celebrates toys of all kinds from across the eras. On display will be toys from Hove Museum’s very own Wizard’s Attic gallery along with some popular favourites and others that have not been loved for some time!

pundit Mark ‘the Couch’ Winstanley, Sussex trainer Gary Moore and tote PR director George Primarolo. The evening starts with a drinks reception at 6.45pm, followed by dinner, and the opportunity to watch the key trial races and debate the chances of the leading contenders for the main races at the 2012 Cheltenham Festival. Chief Executive of Plumpton Racecourse Claire Sheppard says “We are delighted to again be holding this very popular evening, and with such a knowledgeable and entertaining panel. If you are planning to attend or have a bet at Cheltenham, you are sure to pick up some key information from those close to the leading contenders for the Festival.” Tickets are only £50 and can be purchased online at www.plumptonracecourse.co.uk or from the Plumpton Racecourse office by calling 01273 890383.

Children and young people from Brighton and Hove have helped to curate the exhibition with exciting displays of their own favourite toys. My Favourite Toy 10th March to 6th November 2012 Hove Museum & Art Gallery Church Road, Hove Open Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri and Sat 10am-5pm Sunday 2-5pm Free Admission www.brighton-hove-museums.org.uk

ABSOLUTE

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20/2/12 13:27:16

ABSOLUTE MOTORING

otorsport makes demands on a car that are quite different to those associated with everyday driving. Even a focused performance model like the iconic BMW M3 makes real compromises to keep comfort, refinement and practicality acceptable for road use. If motorway cruising, urban traffic jams, supermarket shopping trips and family outings were dropped much lower down the M3’s list of priorities, it could get a whole lot faster around any race circuit you care to mention. A faster M3 is quite a prospect and just so nobody has to strain the old grey matter trying to imagine it, BMW built the M3 GTS. The GTS is BMW’s M3 with a host of modifications designed to hone its performance 64

on track. With no rear seats, it’s never going to be an everyday car in the way that the standard M3 can be but revisions to engine, brakes, aerodynamics, suspension and gearbox raise the GTS up to the level of the track car elite. The GTS version of the M3 is road legal but it’s hard to see anyone buying one who didn’t intend to use it extensively on track. It’s only away from the public roads that this comprehensively modified version of the standard 420bhp V8-engined M3 could conceivably be pushed close to its full potential. This is no software-based performance boost for the M3. The key components and systems that make the standard M3 one of the fastest coupes on sale have been thoroughly revised

for the GTS, starting with the engine. Capacity of the mighty V8 is up from 4.0-litres to 4.4 litres with a longer cylinder stroke and an enlarged combustion chamber helping it achieve a 450bhp maximum power output. That’s 30bhp up on the M3. Peak torque is increased by 40Nm to 440Nm and this helps the car record a 0-62mph time of only 4.4s. Keep your foot planted and the top speed is 190mph. A specialist racing exhaust system has been developed for the GTS with titanium rear silencers designed to provide optimum exhaust flow and an engine note to get the juices of everyone in the vicinity flowing. Doing the shifting is a version of the M Dual Clutch sevenspeed automatic gearbox with modifications

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ABSOLUTE MOTORING “A specialist racing exhaust system has been developed for the GTS with titanium rear silencers designed to provide optimum exhaust flow and an engine note to get the juices of everyone in the vicinity flowing.”

made to its gearchange characteristics. The braking system uses six piston callipers acting on discs that are 18mm larger in diameter at the front and four pot callipers with discs expanded by 30mm at the rear. There’s little chance of any M3 GTS owner managing to keep a low profile but just to make absolutely sure, the car is only available in bright orange. More importantly to its primary goal of going very fast indeed, the GTS also weighs 70kg less than the standard M3 Coupe on which it is based. The weight reduction is achieved by dispensing completely with the rear seats and swapping the glass in the rear screen and side windows for polycarbonate. The roof is made of carbon-fibre reinforced plastic as on

The future’s bright... In GTS form, BMW’s M3 is elevated to new heights of performance. Steve Walker reports

the standard M3 but the GTS also uses that lightweight material for its centre console and door panels. Owners have the option of adjusting numerous aspects of the set-up on the M3 GTS from its aerodynamics to its suspension. The front apron and rear wing are designed to have their geometry varied in order to give the right amount of downforce. The rear wing is actually modelled on the one from BMW’s World Touring Car Championship racecar. The suspension can be lowered by up to 16mm at the front and 12mm at the rear. It includes adjustable dampers and owners who know what they’re doing can also alter the camber on the front and rear axels to their requirements. The motorsport focus of the M3 GTS is clear to see in its specification. A roll bar behind the B pillars, six-point safety harnesses for both seats and a fire extinguisher all come as standard. The cabin isn’t exactly the last word in luxury with racing bucket seats replacing the cosseting

leather sports seating in the standard M3 and Alcantara covering most of the available surfaces including the fat-rimmed steering wheel. M3 GTS owners are unlikely to rack-up significant mileages on the road, so fuel consumption will be less of an issue than with some less focused sports cars. The specialist components are designed for hard track use so it’s safe to expect high levels of reliability and residual values for this highly specialised M3 should hold firm. If you thought that the BMW M3 couldn’t get any more hardcore, think again. The German manufacturer’s fabled M Division has been working overtime to create the M3 GTS. Modifications to the engine, gearbox, brakes, suspension and aerodynamics edge this M3 closer than any before it to a pure race specification. With the rear seats on the skip and power up to an astonishing 450bhp, this is a road legal M3 created for track use and built to win.

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ABSOLUTE BUSINESS

WINNING STREAK Nick Pardo, Director of Rendezvous Casino at Brighton Marina, discusses his hopes for the future and the new Red Lounge challenge, launching this month Nick Pardo, please tell us about your new role as Director of

Of course our casino games are at the centre of what we do and we aim

Rendezvous Casino in Brighton Marina?

to offer a big choice in a comfortable and friendly environment.

It’s a great business waiting to happen. Rendezvous has an outstanding

The restaurant at Rendezvous has featured previously in

reputation in the casino industry, but somewhere maybe it lost its way a little. My job is to make it a vibrant, convivial, and exciting place to go. I’m not looking back, but we can mix in a little of the past with a lot of contemporary innovations.

Absolute Brighton as one of the city’s best restaurants. Please tell us about the current menu and offerings: Our Upper Deck is a distinctive restaurant in its own right. We have fresh produce from local suppliers, and we’ve steered well clear of the sort of

What was your previous business background?

formula food we see too much of these days. The menu has classics like

I’ve worked in gaming industry management for over 30 years, with

whole Dover sole prepared to the customer’s taste, a range of superb

Ladbrokes (twice), Stakis, and Gala. I was Operations Director for Gala

steaks and grilled seafood, and the head chef ’s speciality of wholesome

Casinos since the late 90s and also had input in to their Bingo business. I

British food cooked with a modern twist.

was a consultant before joining London Clubs last year.

We also have a really good ‘Players menu’ which is a wide selection of grills,

How has the leisure industry coped through the current

light meals, and salads and can be enjoyed right through from lunch until

economic downturn?

three in the morning. We’re somewhere you don’t take your life into your

The key for us is remaining positive; people have had enough gloom so

hands when eating late at night!

when they come for a night out we want to make sure they get a great

Does Rendezvous have any events planned in the calendar that

experience. Standards and offer content are key so we want to ensure

our readers may like to know about?

ours are up there with the best in the leisure sector.

Yes. The biggest upcoming night we have is on 29th March with the

Rendezvous Casino, Brighton is a very popular venue for many different

Playboy Night, when we’ll be linking up with the Playboy Club in London

reasons from parties to dining and obviously for the game playing.

who’ll provide guest dealers as we launch our new Red Casino Challenge

What do you think has made it such a stable and popular

at Ground Floor. There will be a special event on the last Friday of every

establishment in the city? We have some unique features; extensive and convenient free parking, great locally sourced foods available late into the night, live entertainment in

month. We’ll expand our music offers later in the year with a jazz and blues club in the Rivva suite. Every Saturday night we have live music in the Upper Deck restaurant and

great settings, and the south of England’s largest poker facility.

there’s tournament poker six nights a week.

Do you have any new visions that you are going to bring to

And finally, what do you think makes a successful casino?

Rendezvous Brighton? Yes! I want to make the Rendezvous exactly that – a unique venue where people want to meet up and there is lots to do and see. I see us as having three great sub brands which supplement the main casino offer:

People more than anything; great, friendly service and assured skills so that people feel welcomed and comfortable whether they are experienced players or newcomers. Add in twists of excitement and glamour and you have a great casino.

The Red Casino Challenge. A series of casino and fun games played for prizes with a set entry fee World Series of Poker. The World’s most famous casino brand comes to Brighton sponsored by WSOP.com The Upper Deck restaurant. Great food from Sussex farms and fisheries prepared by our dedicated and enthusiastic team.

Rendezvous Casino Brighton Marina 01273 605602 npardo@london-clubs.co.uk

ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE BUSINESS

“...people must feel welcomed and comfortable, whether they are

experienced players or newcomers. Add in twists of excitement and glamour and you have a great casino.”

ABSOLUTE

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21/2/12 18:11:07

ABSOLUTE BUSINESS

Creating the Ultimate Party experience New start-up plans to make party fantasies come true for children

veryone who is a parent knows their

was responsible for the worldwide operation of

managing all aspects of the company including

child is a VIP already but how does a VIP

family activity and entertainment programmes

finance, business development, marketing and

celebrate their birthday? By calling in VIP-KIDZ!

for tour operators Thomas Cook and First

strategy.

This new party production company aims to

Choice Holidays.

Commenting on their new enterprise, Ben and

create the ultimate party experience (regardless

Jane is an expert in creating exciting, dynamic

Jane say: “We are determined to bring our many

of budget) by placing the child at the heart of

and cutting edge children’s products for

years of experience in the hospitality industry to

the decision-making process.

internally recognised companies and brands

creating the ultimate party experience – parties

VIP-KIDZ is a new, innovative party production

such as Thomas Cook, First Choice Holidays,

with a twist.

company offering high quality, tailor-made

Carnival Cruise Lines and Haven holidays. As

“Everyone has their own party fantasy. And by

birthday parties for children between the ages

an entertainer Jane spent many years travelling

putting the child at the center of the planning

of 3-12 years old. Party content differs for each

around the world before taking up the position

process – making them our VIP – we can be

individually tailored event and is determined

of Head of Entertainment and Specialist

sure we hear what they are looking for and

by consultation between the fully trained VIP

Products for Thomas Cook Tour Operations,

deliver what they want.”

presenter and the booker – and your child gets

a role which she held for eight years and

the final say!

involved overseeing the creation, delivery

In 2010, Jane and Ben co-founded the

Already requests have been received for

and management of their entertainment

successful Brighton based creative

specialist parties such as a ‘Britain’s Got Talent’, a

and KidsWORLD product in 70 overseas

entertainment production company, The

‘Mad Hatters Tea Party’ and a ‘JLS’ party.

destinations.

Business (www.thebusiness.uk.com).

Older children are asking for cooler, more urban

In 2006, Jane became the Managing Director of

VIP Kidz is its latest project.

themes. In response VIP-KIDZ has created its

a UK based entertainment production company,

www.vip-kidz.co.uk

“Urban Collection” which includes beatboxing, street cheer, jump rope, graffiti and hula hooping. And it’s not just for the children. VIP-KIDZ designs perfect parties for grown-ups too. Fancy an X-Factor party anyone? The brains behind the new outfit are Ben O’Hara and Jane Maguire. Between them they offer 35 years of experience working within the entertainment and hospitality industry. Ben spent five years as Head of Entertainment at Alton Towers before taking the role of Head of Operations for Thomson Cruise Ships. He then became Operations Director for a Brighton based production company, where he 68

ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE BUSINESS

One year on! Maarten Hoffmann, one of the pioneers of The Platinum Club, gives an update of this exclusive networking club one year on from its conception t is almost the first anniversary of the

as it takes the form of a relaxed and enjoyable

formation of Brighton’s premier business

Champagne reception with a live jazz band

forum The Platinum Club that held its inaugural

hosted by Paula Seabourne-Pearson and myself.

meeting in May 2011.

As hosts, we have an in-depth knowledge

In partnership with The Grand Hotel Brighton,

of each members business and ensure that

the Platinum Club has gone from strength

relevant introductions are made between

to strength and now boasts amongst its

members throughout the evening. This is such

membership some of the most substantial

an effective and economical way for companies

companies in Sussex, such as Coutts Bank,

to foster new business contacts that we would

Bentley Motor Cars, HSBC, Mercedes Benz,

strongly suggest that any business not in the

Mishon Mackay, Grosvenor Casino, Audi Cars,

Platinum Club is missing out of a unique

American Express, Healy’s Solicitors and the

opportunity.

largest employer in Sussex, Hasting Direct

The monthly events are always held in the

Insurance. This is just a small selection of the 85

splendour of The Grand Hotel, Brighton,

current members; new members are joining on

where members enjoy the finest Champagne

a weekly basis.

and scrumptious canapés whilst networking,

Not all members are large companies as the

followed by some of the best jazz in the city.

club also welcomes smaller but influential

Networking can sometimes be seen as a chore,

businesses such as Yelo Architects, Skerritt

but the Platinum Club events are very enjoyable

Consultants, Harwood’s Racing Club and the

and highly effective.

club’s digital media partner Bite Studio.

For details of joining The Platinum Club,

Absolute Brighton Magazine is delighted to have

contact Maarten or Paula on 01273 621421

been appointed as the Clubs exclusive Media

or info@jeneratorcreative.com

Paula Seabourne-Pearson

Partner. The Platinum Club’s style of networking is

www.theplatinumclubbrighton.co.uk

quite different from the many others available

Maarten Hoffmann

Paula Seabourne-Pearson from Jenerator Creative, John Shewell from Brighton & Hove City Council, Darren Mostyn from Online Creative and Andrew Mosley, GM of The Grand Hotel at a recent Platinum Club networking forum

ABSOLUTE Brighton is proud to be the official media partner of The Platinum Club

ABSOLUTE

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FACES & PLACESPlatinum

Gar-Young Tang and Simon Stewart-Jones of G Casino, Clive Gordon (The Gordon Group)

David and Vivienne Stockman

still shining

Alastair Scragg (Acumen Business Law), Hilary Arundel (Swan Editing Services), Miles Ward (Jenerator Creative

The first Platinum Club event of the year took place at The Grand Hotel in January. Brighton’s premier business club is growing rapidly as news spreads of the relaxed and enjoyable format of the monthly event and the economic power of such a high level networking gathering. Although the club membership base comprises some of the largest companies in Sussex, many smaller influential companies are being accepted if the organisers feel they have something unique to offer. Each monthly event takes place with a background of chilled live jazz, superb Champagne and mouth-watering canapés. If you don’t like networking, The Platinum Club is the place for you as it is full of companies that don’t like the formality of networking but love the relaxed feel of these monthly club events. For more information about joining, contact Jenerator Creative on 01273 621421 or mail to info@jeneratorcreative.com

Paula Seabourne-Pearson (Jenerator), Robert Wakeford (Leumi Invoice Finance), Maarten Hoffmann (Jenerator), Chris Rigby (Chris Rigby Associates)

Pictures Richard Bidwell

Tony Rice (Coulsdon Audi)

David Stockman (Healy’s Solicitors), Andrew Mosley (G.M. of the Grand Hotel), Alastair Scragg of Acumen Business Law

Paul Smith and Absolute Brighton’s Rishma Patel Chris Rigby (Chris Rigby Associates) and Dean Orgill (Mayo Wynne Baxter Solicitors) Robert Wakeford (Leumi Invoice Finance)

Patrick Spencer (Allfield Finacial)

Simon Stewart-Jones (G Casino)

Sophie Jackson

Simon Elkin (Harwoods Bentley)

ABSOLUTE

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22/2/12 13:30:54

S.M.TIDY

BUSINESS VILLAGE

Dazzling Dogs

The Pine Warehouse

Dog Grooming Parlour

Tel: 01444 230009

07557 787051

www.pinewarehouse.org

dazzlingdogs@hotmail.co.uk Greenwholesale.co.uk Topiary and landscaping plants at wholesale prices

Sand – Gravel Muckaway – Topsoil Compost – Mulch Tel. Bob 07879 862918

Design - installation – supply www.greenwholesale.co.uk

07789 979867 gjhw@htomail.com

La casita Suppliers of Spanish food to the trade 07814 390085

Hogg House Cafe Hot and cold drinks Snacks

07802 625440

Premier Autocare Servicing and Repairs

Sheet metal work, welding and fabrication

01444 244353

Tel: 01444 230766

www.pentacraft.co.uk

SOUTHDOWN BODYSHOP

new and part worn tyres

Accident repairers/vehicle re-painters

01444 254910

01444 232220

SDBS@hotmail.co.uk

RMV Motors Ltd Servicing . Repairs Horseboxes . Motorhomes

01444 241455

www.townandcountry-removals.co.uk

Quality Electrician training at affordable prices, C & G approved

01444 871113 www.electricaltraining4u.co.uk

Sullivan’s Suppliers of ﬁne foods

Wholesale distributors of catering products www.sullivansfoods.co.uk

www.rubys-bakery.co.uk

01444 250690

07588 804703

SOUTHERN STEEL SERVICES (UK) Telephone: 01444 871435 Gumtree 4x4 LTD

SDBS

MOT Class 4 & 7

01444 257494

Bespoke Furniture

EMPORIUM

CAR, BOAT, CARAVAN AND BIKE STORAGE

Fax: 01444 248647 www.rmv-motors.co.uk

07824 430650

The Landrover Specialists Land Rover, Range Rover, Discovery and Freelander. Specialist service and repairs

01444 241457 admin@gumtree4x4.co.uk

PBM Technical Services BMW and Mercedes specialist service and repairs

01444 242600

INDUSTRIAL STORAGE UNITS | WAREHOUSES | WORKSHOPS | OFFICES Available to let - join our community Project2_Layout 1 24/01/2012 12:47 Page 1

SM Tidy Industrial Estate Ditchling Common West Sussex BN6 8SG B0312_071 SM TIDY.indd 1

Tel: 01444 250123 Mob 07824 430650 www.smtidy.com Email space@smtidy.com 21/2/12 14:09:58

ABSOLUTE BUSINESS

Cheer them on!

Get those legs moving!

Even if you don’t fancy running, please come along and give your support to those who are taking part in the 2012 Brighton Marathon

t may only be its third year but this year’s Brighton Marathon is set to be one of the biggest running events of 2012 – with an estimated 20,000 runners taking part, 550 of whom will run for the NSPCC to

raise money for the charity’s ChildLine service. The 26.2 mile route will see participants run past landmarks including the Brighton Pavillion and Brighton Marina before they finish the race at the iconic Palace Pier. Last year, thousands of people lined the route, cheering on family, friends and charity runners. And it’s these people who make all the difference to those taking part in the gruelling race, according to NSPCC fundraiser and volunteer cheerer, Ros Bird. “It’s so important for our runners to have people cheering them on,” Ros said. “As a fun runner myself, I know only too well that when you’re flagging, seeing people in colourful NSPCC t-shirts gives you an unbelievable lift. It really motivates you to carry on and get to the finish line. It’s also really important for the relatives of the runners to see and hear the support for their loved ones. It creates a fantastic community atmosphere and everyone is genuinely excited when those running for the NSPCC start to approach.” Not only is Ros a seasoned fun runner but she has also volunteered and cheered at numerous events including the London Marathon, last year’s Brighton Marathon and the Great Southern Run (which she has also run herself), and she is very keen to get more volunteers to join her at the sidelines. “We can never have too many volunteers cheering and as someone who has done it on many occasions, I can’t encourage people enough

to get involved. It’s immensely rewarding and gives you the chance to get together with like minded people at a worthwhile event. Last year’s Brighton Marathon was one of the hottest days of 2011 so we walked away not only with a huge amount of satisfaction but a pretty good sun tan too! “If anyone is thinking of coming along to watch the race anyway, then I would urge them to contact us and volunteer to be an official NSPCC cheerer. It’s simple - the more support we have, hopefully the more money we can raise so our charity can carry on supporting and protecting children across the UK.” This year, all the money raised by the NSPCC through the generosity of its runners in the Brighton Marathon will help to develop its ChildLine service, which is now it’s 25th year. ChildLine was launched by Esther Rantzen on 30 October 1986 in response to a plea from children. That first year, it received 23,000 calls from children who desperately needed someone to turn to. Since then, ChildLine has counselled over 2.6 million children, with ChildLine online offering live help and advice to hundreds of thousands more, through message boards, forums and one-to-one support from counsellors. It costs just £4 to answer a call to ChildLine and each call could change a child’s life. If you have your own place in the Brighton Marathon, join the NSPCC running team and help ChildLine be there for the next 25 years and beyond. Ros is also convinced that being a cheerer might actually convince some people to don their running shoes next year! “The atmosphere is so great that I am certain that the people who have been considering running the race itself, but have never been quite brave enough to take the plunge, will be convinced to do it next time around. The excitement is infectious and I just know volunteers from this year will be pulling on their running shoes next year – hopefully along with a shiny new NSPCC running vest!” For more information about running for the NSPCC, email gorunning@nspcc.org.uk or call 020 7825 2621. The Brighton Marathon takes place on Sunday April 15th 2012.

ABSOLUTE

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ABSOLUTE LAW Alan Larkin of family Law PartnersThis month, Lucy Parkinson of Family Law Partners discusses putting your business affairs in order before you tie the knot.

RECOGNISED SPECIALISTS IN FAMILY LAW

Time for a spring clean but wait, what about the old assets?

hankfully, with the worst of winter behind us, the evenings drawing out and the sun making an appearance we can begin to get excited

for the year that lies ahead; the joys, triumphs and surprises it will bring, one of which could be a new relationship or even perhaps nuptials between yourself and your loved one.

These are all questions that you need to ask yourself before taking the

Family Law Partners are committed to delivering a solution-focused approach for clients.Their dispute resolution services help minimise both the emotional and financial cost to families. Family Law Partners are the only Sussex based family law firm ranked in the prestigious Chambers and Partners UK Directory and can help with:

plunge; a pre-nuptial agreement is no longer just for the rich, famous and

Divorce and separation

A new relationship or marriage can bring happiness to all those involved but (without wishing to play devil’s advocate), it can also be the can opener to a whole can of worms that you may never have considered before. Do you have property, pensions and assets that you would like to protect? A family that you need to ensure are provided and cared for?

pessimists amongst us. Should you have already jumped off the high dive, and your family assets have changed over time, have you considered regulating your finances? If the worst should happen, and in order to save you, your partner and your family unnecessary stress, money and animosity at a time when emotions will be running high and often away with your common sense,

Mediation, which can include involving your children Collaborative law Financial issues, including inheritance claims and wealth protection

the less well publicised post-nuptial agreement may be something for

Post and pre nuptial agreements

you to consider. These are not only relevant when you’re in times of

Civil Partnership Dissolutions

emotional stress at home, but when you are working together as a

Children issues

couple to be pragmatic and practical for whatever the future may hold.

Cohabitation

“...a pre-nuptial agreement is no longer just for the rich, famous and pessimists amongst us.” Remember, looking after your hard earned assets does not mean that you love your partner any less or that you don’t think it has what it takes to stand the test of time. Instead it is something that you can discuss openly together giving each other complete piece of mind, with all your cards on the table - without a joker in sight. Lucy Parkinson Solicitor lucyp@familylawpartners.co.uk 01273 862369 Follow Lucy on Twitter: @LucyPLaw Family Law Partners 01273 862395 www.familylawpartners.co.uk

B0212_073 Family Law MAR2012.ind1 1

Contact us for a confidential no obligation telephone discussion with one of our specialist team. Out of office hours appointments are available.

01273 862395 info@familylawpartners.co.uk www.familylawpartners.co.uk

20/2/12 19:56:39

EACH MONTH, ABSOLUTE BRIGHTON WILL BE DELIVERED TO SELECTED HOMES IN PRESTIGIOUS AREAS IN AND AROUND THE CITY. THIS MONTH: WITHDEAN AREA, HOVE

These are SOME of the many places where you can pick up your copy of Absolute Brighton BRIGHTON Jury’s Inn Hotel Studio 27, Queens Road Peach Software, Queens Road Parsons, Son and Basley, Queens Road Starbucks, Churchill Square Hollister, Churchill Square Republic, Churchill Square Moksha Café, 4/5 York Place, Jimmy Chop Chop, Trafalgar Street The Laines Deli, Trafalgar Street Gaff, Trafalgar Street Easy News, Trafalgar Street The Point Hairdressers, Trafalgar Street Rosalins Hair and Beauty Salon, 78 Trafalgar St Fired Earth, Prince Albert Street Gars, Prince Albert Street Mesmerist bar, Prince Albert Street, Ambience Gallery, Meeting House Lane Kellerwood, 12d Meeting House Lane Brighton Beautique, 14 Ship St She Said, Ship Street Gardens Office Shoes, Cranbourne Street, Reiss Clothing, East Street Toni & Guy, 68 East Street Champneys, 24 East Street Madame Geisha, East Street Jack Wills, East Street Regent Arcade Art at Five, Bartholomews Karen Millen, Nile Street Velvet, Bond Street Art @ Tailor Made, 3 Brighton Square Solutions inc, Hannington Quarter, Donatellos, 1-3 Brighton Square Fratellis, 20 Brighton Square Starbucks, Market Square Elite dressmakers, The Lanes Browns, Duke Street Powder, 5a Duke St Look Fantastic, Duke Street Havana Restaurant, 32 Duke Street Hotel Du Vin, 2-6 Ship Street Electric, 18 Ship Street Leone Clare, Upper North Street Sabai Thai Restaurant. 165-169 Princes Place, North Street Juice FM, North Street All Bar One, Pavilion Buildings Dome Box Office, New Road Treatment Rooms, 21 New Road Okinami Restaurant, New Road Shine Hairdressers, Gloucester Road Midnight Communications, Foundry St Priory Partnership, Frederick Place Tower Point, North Road Wagamamas, North Road Myhotel, 17 Jubilee Square Skin Clinics, Jubilee Square LA Fitness, North Road O-zone, 21 – 23 Church Street Aruna Newsagents, 55 Gardner Street

AIB Bank, Marlborough Place Graves Jenkins, 26 Marlborough Place Healys Solicitors, 8 Old Steine Venus Hairdresser, Old Steine Terraces, Madeira Drive Wynne Baxter, 15-19 Dyke Road Blenios, Seven Dials Uden Estate Agents, Seven Dials John Hoole Estate Agents, 214 Dyke Rd Dyke Golf Club, Devil’s Dyke, Dyke Road The Clinic Chiropractors, 34 Dyke Road Avenue Albion Hotel, King’s Road Parade Brighton Centre, Kings Road Brighton Metropole, Kings Road Cavendish House, Kings Road The Grand, Kings Road The Thistle Hotel, Bartholomews Old Ship Hotel, Kings Road Holiday Inn, 137 Kings Rd, Kings Hotel, 139-141 Kings Road Pelirocco Hotel, 10 Regency Square Hotel Una, 55 Regency Square Brighton Racecourse, Freshfield Road

KEMPTOWN Seaspray Hotel, 25 New Steine The Square Hotel, 4 New Steine New Steine Hotel, 12a New Steine New Madeira Hotel, Marine Parade Drakes Hotel, 44 Marine Parade Brighton Laser Clinic, Marine Parade Sun Qube 66 St George’s Road Spruce, 11 George Street Gin Gin Restaurant, 74 St James Street Forde Hairdressers, 88 St James Street Four Seasons, 3 Upper Rock Gardens Alvia Hotel, 36 Upper Rock Gardens Blanch House Hotel, Atlingworth Street

BRIGHTON MARINA Seatle Hotel, Waterfront Rendezvous Casino David Lloyd, Marina Walk of Fame Café, Waterfront Neilson, Locksview ASDA (Petrol station) Marina Dental Care, Marina Square

HOVE Skerritts, 23 Coleridge Street Tranquility in the City, 12 Boundary Rd Eaton Road Dental Practise, Eaton Rd The Cricketers, Hove Cricket Ground Tai Hair and Beauty, 7 Blatchington Rd Robbies Car Wash, Hove Station Tesco Express, The Droveway, Hove Toast of Brighton, 40 Church Road La Fourchette, 42 Church Road Tingleys, 46 Church Road Callaways Estate Agents, 59 Church Rd Fabulous Floors, 67 Church Road Harry’s, Church Road

Alpha Contracts, 51–53 Church Road Havana Spoon, 70-72 Church Road Mishon Welton Estates, 94 Church Rd Waves, 99 Church Road Property Moves, 109 Church Road Hove Family Dental Practice, 11 New Church Road Coffee Republic, 57 Church Road Mishon Mackay, 170 Church Road Clinic Nine, 212 Church Road Lansdowne Place Hotel, Lansdowne Pl Arscotts, 54 Lansdowne Place Caffé Nero, The Drive Starbucks, Western Road Brighton White, 2 Hampton Place Design Interiors, 56 Western Road Beauty Secrets, 65 Western Road Hove Kitchen, Western Road Caffe Nero, 208 Western Road Coffee Republic, 55 Western Road Spektra Hairdressing, 69 Western Road, Tipaza, 104 Western Road Intoto Kitchens, 119/120 Western Road Nail Studio, 1 Brunswick Rd Brunswick Pub, Brunswick Road GK UNA hair salon, 19 Upper Market St Tin Drum, Second Ave Le Lion D’or, George Street The Hair and Nail Loft, George Street Diamond Nails, George Street Murray Media, 1 Blatchington Road Babylon Lounge, Western Esplanade The Lawns Café, Hove Lawns, Kingsway Hove Practice, 28 Wilbury Road Gym and Tonic, 42 Queen Victoria Road

PORTSLADE Tooth Smart, 137 Portland Road, Hove Heart FM, Franklin Road, Portslade Rivervale cars (Mazda), Victoria Rd Caffyns Volvo, Victoria Road, Portslade Hair and Beauty Lounge, Portland Road Westbourne Motors, 270 Portland Road

SHOREHAM/LANCING SOUTHWICK Frosts Cars, Brighton Road, Shoreham Glam, 14a High Street, Shoreham Stephanie Reed, 80 High Street Crown and Anchor, High St, Shoreham Identity Hair Salon, High St, Shoreham Showtec, High St, Shoreham The Smile Studio, East St, Shoreham Hair and Nail lounge, 30 East Street, Crop Shop, 7 St Mary’s Road, Shoreham The Holmbush shopping centre Shoreham Airport Style and Silver, Bank House, Southwick Square

VJG Jewellery, 6 Warwick Lane Casa Ciro, Marine Parade Richard John Hair, 2 - 4 Royal Arcade Splash FM, Guildbourne Centre Shaun Slater Gould, Ann Street Liming Restaurant, 13/15 New Street Food Restaurant, New Street Euphoric. 17 Chandos Road Burlington Hotel, Marine Parade (Gio’s) Tangerine Bar, Marine Parade Caffyns Plc, Goring Rd, Goring Montage, 29 Brighton Road

BURGESS HILL Porsche Mid-Sussex, York Road Burgess Hill Girls School, Keymer Road

LEWES Lewes District Council, Southover Rd Chalk Gallery, 4 North Street Lewes Estates, High Street The Crown Inn, 191 High Street Seasons Of Lewes, 199 High Street Artisan, 197 High Street Cubitt & West, 209 High Street Wycherley Estate Agents, 56 High Street Cheese Please, 46 High Street Bone, 36 High Street White Hart Hotel, High Street Pelham House Hotel, High Street Wynne Baxter, 221 High Street Shelleys Hotel, High Street Dome Hairdressing, High Street Laportes, 1 Lansdowne Place Esquire, 3 Lansdowne Place Equilibrium Health Centre, 16 Station St Avant Garde, 28 High Street Oyster lingerie, 5 North Court Dorset pub, 22 Malling St

OTHER AREAS Harwoods, London Road, Pulborough Polka Dot, Hurstpierpoint South Lodge Hotel, Lower Beeding The Royal Oak, Poynings Tottington Manor, Edburton, Henfield Richwards Estate Agents, Henfield White Mischief Weddings, Henfield Ripples Bathrooms, Keymer Rd, Hassocks Shepherd and Dog, Fulking White Horse Hotel, Rottingdean Angels n’ Saints, Rottingdean Buxted Park, Uckfield Baloos, Woodmancote The Ginger Fox, Woodmancote Cowdray Park, Cowdray, Midhurst Cherrywood Events, Stanmer House

WORTHING Bryce’s Seafood, The Steine The Fish Factory, Brighton

THESE ARE JUST SOME OF THE MANY PLACES YOU CAN PICK UP YOUR FREE COPY 74

ABSOLUTE

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B0109_082 Chaddar.indd 1

17/12/08 10:34:14

From classic colonial to new cool. A gastro brasserie, bar and late night lounge in the heart of Hove. With a superb French chef and new menu, Havana Spoon builds on the Havana brand with a glamorous modern twist.

www.havanaspoon.com

70-72 Church Road, Hove BN3 2FP Reservations 01273 651651