Along the Thames June.July 12 Marlow & Bourne End by Living Along theThames

FREE TM

LOCAL LIFESTYLE

INANDAROUND MARLOW and BOURNE END

JUNE/JULY 2012

to the June/July issue. As I sit and write this the sun is shining and it appears that Summer has finally arrived!! We have managed to enjoy a few BBQ’s while we can, just in case the weather turns again!! Let’s hope that the sun continues to shine and we all enjoy a glorious summer. Not long to the Olympics now and hopefully some of you managed to get tickets. It should be a Games to be remembered as the venues look stunning and this the third time that London has hosted the games - the only Country to do so. In this edition we feature one of the Olympic sports, hockey, which Team GB will be going all out to win a medal. As ever we have a jam-packed edition with the focus on holiday fashion, what’s on - Cliveden Rocks, Art and Craft Fairs, Windsor Racecourse and the National Trust, just to name a few. Still looking for a holiday, well maybe our travel section will inspire you as we look at The Maldives and the adventures of Tyrone in Kenya, whom we have featured before. Sally gives her ‘turn’ on packing for a holiday along with all our usual features. Don’t forget you can add your event onto our website - this is a FREE listing. Please remember to support all our advertisers as they are at the heart of our community, along with all our local retailers who support the community themselves Until next time, Happy Reading..........

Contents 6. Tasting Techniques 8. Recipe - Milk Chocolate & salted peanut parfait 12. Don’t forget the Hockey 13. Craft Experience Fair 16. Emmett & Stone Country Sports 18. Country Wise 19. Garden 24. Interiors - White Rooms 32. Beauty

34. Fashion 38. Hair by Alexander 40. In the air 42. Out and About 43. Community 44. Readers Corner 46. 10 Things you didn’t know about dogs 48. Travel - The Maldives 50. Bush Life 52. Sally’s Smalltalk

53. Horoscopes 55. I’m not unreasonable..am I? 56. Social Media: LinkedIn 57. Changes to Child Benefits 58. Opening the lines of Communication 60. Motoring 64. Useful Numbers 65. Services

EDITOR Serena Edwards

CONTRIBUTORS Harriet Subramanian, Phil Walker Alexander Parsons, Christine Chalkin, Kasia Cole, Jill Coleby, David Rhys Price, Tony Silver, Sally Todd, Colin Baxter, Emma Filtness, Vanessa Woolley, Niki Schäfer, Jacky & Mark Bloomfield, Sophie Ward

Along the Thames Magazine Marlow is the sister title to Along the Thames Maidenhead - prints and distributes 16,400 copies bimonthly and hand delivers copies into ABC homes inandaround Marlow, Bourne End, Maidenhead, Cookham and Bray, as well as in bedrooms and reception rooms of hotels, golf clubs, coffee shops, hairdressers, libraries and local information centres.

SUB EDITOR Alex Iszatt Alex@AlongTheThames.co.uk ADVERTISING Serena Edwards PUBLISHED BY Along the Thames Magazine 1 Bell Street, Maidenhead Berks SL6 1BU t: 01628 771419 m: 07711 887107 e: office@AlongTheThames.co.uk w: www.AlongTheThames.co.uk Copyright © 2012 Along the Thames

FRONT COVER: Marlow Bottom http://www.aerial-photograph.co.uk Along the Thames Magazine ISSN 2047-3370

Proud Sponsor of Along the Thames Creative Writing Prize at

The views expressed in Along the Thames magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor/publisher. While all reasonable care is taken to ensure accuracy of our content, the publisher cannot accept liability for errors/omissions relating to the editorial/ advertising in this publication or for loss rising as a result. No part of the contents of this publication can be reproduced without the express permission of the authors and is protected by copyright.

Food & Drink

Al fresco dining at The Oakley Court Set in 37 acres of beautifully Now that summer is here there’s nowhere better for al fresco landscaped gardens with manicured lawns leading dining than the riverside terrace at The Oakley Court Hotel. Dining at straight down to the River Thames, the hotel is steeped The Oakley Court is a memorable affair with gourmet cuisine using in history. Sumptuous carved the best locally sourced seasonal and moulded features including ingredients. Chef Michael Mealey’s ornate ceilings and stone carved gothic window panes create a modern British style of cooking memorable setting, partnered has found its perfect match at with stunning river views. this 152 year old hotel. Whether it’s morning coffee, a leisurely Make the most of the stunning lunch, afternoon tea or an intimate riverside location and hire one of the hotel’s self drive boats dinner, you’ll enjoy gourmet for an hour. Pick up a delicious cuisine and impeccable service. picnic hamper from the hotel and

enjoy a leisurely lunchtime cruise exploring this picturesque stretch of the River Thames. Come back for a relaxing afternoon tea on the terrace or a game of croquet - it all adds up to a memorable day out. Stay overnight in one of our luxuriously furnished rooms overlooking the gardens or the river and you can really relax. Enjoy our extensive leisure facilities – indoor heated pool, sauna, steam room and gym, all weather tennis courts, and a 9 hole par 3 golf course. You may never want to leave!

Windsor

Tel: 01753 609 988 The Oakley Court Windsor Road Water Oakley, Windsor SL4 5UR 4

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Stunning riverside Al fresco dining Come to The Oakley Court this summer and you can be sure of a warm welcome. Enjoy Al fresco drinks, lunch or afternoon tea on our stunning riverside terrace. Or hire one of our self drive boats for up to 10 people, sail away and explore the Thames. Let us pack you a delicious picnic hamper for a leisurely cruise and have a truly exceptional day to remember. At A Glance

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The Oakley Court, Windsor Road, Water Oakley, Windsor SL4 5UR. 01753 609988 www.principal-hayley.com/theoakleycourt

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Tasting Techniques L

earning to taste and recognise wines is a skill that any wine drinker can learn and can be a great deal of fun if done in groups or social setting! To learn the basics I would suggest learning the WSET method of tasting ( Wine & Spirit Education Trust ): which includes:• The appearance of the wine • How it smells (the nose) • How it tastes ( the palate) • Conclusions Appearance How a wine appears in the glass can tell you a reasonable amount about it. Firstly, consider the clarity of the wine. Is it clear and bright or conversely is it dull and hazy? Consider the intensity of the colour of the wine, and what that colour is. In general terms white wines begin their lives pale and become more deeply coloured over time. Conversely, red wines tend to begin life deeply coloured and become lighter as they age. If you hold the glass up to the light and swirl it around, you may notice tears or legs appearing on the sides of the glass. This will give you an indication of the alcoholic content of the wine. The more apparent the tears or legs, the more alcoholic the wine. The Nose Swirl the wine in the glass and give it a really good sniff. Does the wine smell clean, or is it corked or faulty? How

intense is the aroma? Is it light and delicate, or is it a pronounced aroma that leaps out of the glass? Consider whether it is a youthful aroma, developing, or tired and past its best. Finally, what can you smell? Are the aromas driven by fruits, flowers/floral tones, spice or other smells? The Palate When tasting a wine, consider firstly whether it is dry or sweet? Is it fresh and does it make your mouth water? A wine that is high in acidity will create a mouth watering sensation at the sides of the mouth, which is essential in white wines. Those with low acidity, and do not create a mouth watering sensation, are often described as being fat or flabby. Tannins are found most commonly in red wines and create the opposite sensation as they tend to dry out the sides of the mouth. Young red wines are often high in tannin and the drying sensation can sometimes be rather aggressive and unpleasant. The affect of very slow oxidation over time, often assisted by the mellowing of oak ageing, can soften these tannins and make the wine more rounded and pleasurable. Consider also the alcohol level of the wine. Is it aggressive and overly high in alcohol, potentially creating a burning sensation at the back of the throat? What about the body

of the wine, try to describe the weight of the wine in the mouth. Finally, try to describe the flavours that you can taste. A selection of some of the flavour groups associated with both red and white wines are listed below to assist you: • Citrus: grapefruit, lemon, lime • Green: Fruit -apple, gooseberry, pear • Stone Fruit: apricots, peach • Red Fruit: raspberry, red cherry, plum, strawberry • Black Fruit: blackberry, black cherries, blackcurrants • Tropical Fruit: banana, Kiwi, lychee, mango, pineapple • Dried Fruit: fig, prune, raisin, sultana Conclusions When summarising the wine consider its quality. Is it poor or corked, acceptable, good or outstanding ? What are the reasons for its quality? Is it the high quality of the fruit, the complexity of flavours, the length (how long the taste lasts in the mouth), or is it the overall balance of the wine and the fact that all the desirable features are present, with no one feature overpowering another? As always whatever your personal preferences we hope you enjoy the wine that you drink and that this has given you further insight into those wines. Colin Baxter

For Internet wine sales, wedding wines, wine tastings, and free local deliveries Contact Colin Baxter - 07775 871897 or visit our website. 6

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H istoric W ine T ours I taly 2012 in the

Valpolicella, Soave & Lake Garda regions • Stay in 4* Hotels throughout on Half Board basis • Guided Tours and Wine Tastings to celebrated wineries in the Valpolicella • Fully escorted Visits to historic VERONA • Relax on Lago di Garda

For Further Information contact De Stefano & Cinquegrani Historic Wine Tours Tel: + 44 (0)1491 412754 / + 44 (0)7929 387941 Email: diana@conventionsinternational.eu The De Stefano & Cinquegrani Historic Wine Tours Partnership was formed one sunny day in November 2011 in Verona Italy. The partnership is a division of Conventions International (UK and Europe) and manages all their Tours. The Company is based in Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire and was established in 1972 in London forty years ago. The tours are based in the north eastern part of Italy, known as the Veneto region. The tours start at Verona Airport, which has daily scheduled British Airways and Easy Jet Flights from London (Gatwick) Airport to Verona direct (2 hours). You will be met by our tour guide for the transfer to your specially selected 4* hotel which you will be staying in on a half board basis. Your tour starts with a guided walking tour of the beautiful and historic city of Verona and a visit to the 17th century Giardino

Giusti (magnificent gardens), followed by dinner at the famous Ristorante Antico Caffe Dante. The next morning you will travel by executive coach to the wine regions of Soave and Valpolicella. Escorted wine tours will be conducted by English speaking guides followed by tastings at each winery. You will have

a drinks reception and gala dinner on the third night. A full day trip to Monte Baldo will include a thrilling journey on the spectacular and only rotating cable car (funivia) in the world! The trip continues to La Foresteria, where you will visit the winery and its drying lofts (I fruttai di Appassimento) and the cellars (Le Cantine). While at La Foresteria, you can have the option of booking a cookery course, experiencing the pairing of local wines and food. Towards the end of the tour you will be able to relax at Lake Garda, with guided visits to Sirmione, Bardolino and Lazise. The hotel resort in Garda has numerous sport and leisure facilities with the option of booking a lake steamer trip. The trip generally takes seven days but different options may be available to continue on which we are happy to discuss with you at time of booking.

For further information please contact Tel:+44 (0)1491 412754. Email: diana@conventionsinternational.eu ALONG THE THAMES

Milk Chocolate & Salted Peanut Parfait Chef: Chris Wheeler - Stoke Park

METHOD: • Melt the chocolate in a bain-marie • Whip the eggs and sugar over a pan of warm water until light and fluffy • Slow add the melted chocolate and the blitzed Salted Peanuts

INGREDIENTS:

• Lightly whip the double cream and fold into the mixture

Serves 4

• Pour into 4 Mousse Rings and Place in the freezer to set for at least two hours.

PARFAIT

• Chocolate Sauce

2 Eggs

• Boil milk, cream and sugar together

125g Caster Sugar

• Add chocolate and re-boil to melt the chocolate

500ml Double Cream

• Mix well and pass through a strainer

100g Milk Chocolate

• Serve and Garnish

75g Salted Peanuts ~ ( Blitzed )

• De-ring your parfaits

CHOCOLATE SAUCE

• Melt the 80g of milk chocolate and pour ¼ on to a cool marble slab and spread out

75g Dark Chocolate 50ml Milk

• Trim the edges and carefully wrapped it around your parfait and fold the top to form a present like shape

50ml Double Cream

• Repeat this with the other 3 parfaits

8g Castor Sugar

• Place one parfait in the middle of each bowl and garnish each parfait with 2 chocolate sticks

GARNISH 80g Milk Chocolate Icing Sugar 8 Chocolate Sticks ( optional )

ALONG THE THAMES

• Dust with icing sugar • Pour the warm chocolate sauce in to a jug • Serve the Parfait to your guest and at the table in front of your guests pour the chocolate sauce around.

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3ULYDWH DQG %XVLQHVV )XQFWLRQV FDWHUHG IRU 3OHDVH FDOO O\QQ IRU PRUH GHWDLOV If you're the kind of person who breaks out the barbecue at the first sign of sun, gadgets can help you with that too: digital thermometers (widely available from around ÂŁ5) enable you to check that the inside of the food isn't still raw when the outside's been burned to a crisp. While you're at it, you might want to order a BBQ Branding Iron (ÂŁ12.99 from MenKind.co.uk) to burn your name - or any text you like - into the food you're cooking. More sensibly - and as useful indoors as out - Hostess makes a cordless hot tray that keeps plates of food warm for up to an hour from a single 8-minute charge, while Barcraft's rotary Ice Crusher (from around ÂŁ16) crushes ice for those all-important cocktails

Longhurstâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s MARLOWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s only local Family Butcher Quality & Customer Care always come first Advice on which cuts to choose and how best to bring out the flavour in your cooking

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Grilled Cardamom Chicken with Spinach & Red Pepper Sauce This is a mildly spicy chicken dish which is ideal for dinner parties or for the BBQ. The chicken is marinated ideally for twenty four hours in a yoghurt mix, grilled, and then served with a spinach and red pepper sauce. Serves 6

Grilled Chicken:

Spinach and Pepper sauce:

Ingredients: 6 Medium sized whole chicken breasts, skin removed. (For the marinade) 600ml Greek yoghurt 16 Cardamom pods, husks removed 1 tsp mace or nutmeg 2 tsps ground cumin 2 Green chillies finely chopped 1 dessertspoon caster sugar 1 tbsp vegetable oil Pinch of sea salt and ground pepper 2 tbsps light soy sauce Juice of 1 lemon. 1 tbsp s garlic powder 1 tbsp ginger paste.

Ingredients: 2 Tablespoons vegetable oil 1 Dessertspoon sesame oil 2 Cloves of garlic peeled and chopped Half red chilli deseeded and chopped 1 Small onion peeled and chopped 200g Fresh Baby leaf spinach chopped. 4 tbsps chopped coriander 1 dessertspoon caster sugar Dash of light soy sauce Juice of half lemon 100ml Chicken stock. 250g Roasted red peppers from a jar, drained and finely chopped 75ml crème fraiche. Lemon slices for garnish

Method: 1. In a bowl mix the ingredients and stir well. 2. Spoon half the yoghurt mixture into a tray, and place the chicken breasts on top. Spoon over remaining yoghurt mix, so that chicken is completely covered. Place cling film over tray and refrigerate preferably overnight. 3. When ready for the meal, place the marinated chicken on a grill pan/BBQ, and grill each side for approximately 15 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through. 4. In the meantime make the spinach and pepper sauce

Method: 1. Fry off the onion, chilli and garlic for 5 minutes. 2. Add the spinach coriander leaf, lemon juice, soy sauce, sugar and chicken stock, and bring to boil. Simmer for 5 minutes or until spinach is cooked. Place contents in blender and puree. 3. Return to pan, and warm through, and then add the chopped roasted red pepper, and the crème fraiche. 4. Serve with the chicken, and warm flat breads such as naan/pitta.

David is a Maidenhead based cookery writer, and Internet Chef, who is passionate about all aspects of cooking, and through his’ spiced up’ recipes aims to bring the enjoyment and benefits of spicy food, to a wider readership. David Rhys Price ...The ‘Spicy Chef’

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Bespoke Private Caterers As seasoned professionals we have a wealth of knowledge from within the industry.

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The Art of Breathing with Jayne Wilton Artist Jayne Wilton graduated with an MA from The Slade School of Fine Art, UCL in 2010 and has exhibited work throughout the UK and at the Institute of Contemporary Art in Athens. Jayne works using a variety of traditional and not so traditional processes in order to ‘capture’ the human breath. Jayne is inspired by the paintings of Turner: “His approach to rendering steam and air compelled me to attempt to describe the movement of breath using more contemporary methods. My dad is an artist and his delicate watercolours have also been a big influence,” said Jayne. Jayne has been a full time artist for 8 years. “My work challenges the viewer to reexperience the humble breath through 2D, 3D and 4D media, making visible the usually invisible and ephemeral human breath”, said Jayne. Her series ‘Drawing

Breath’ uses dark room processes of light on photographic paper to record the trace of a spent breath, including those as diverse as hospice patients, a blind infant choir and several athletes. Jayne recently ran a bookbinding course at Brunel University’s Arts Centre. Her grandmother taught her to bind books, a skill she has made use of in her own practice, especially since being re-inspired about books by a course at the Slade Bindery by James Keith. “The books I bind are documentation of my practice, which often consists of collections of similar work, for example, collections of sighs or collections of etched copper plates" she said. Her ‘Drawing Breath’ book was purchased by the Tate for their Artist book collection. Jayne is currently working in the School of Engineering and Design at Brunel University, and has launched a blog to show the

Drawing Breath’ by Jayne Wilton

Author Photo by Morgana of Iberian Black Arts

progress of the work she is collaborating on during her Leverhulme-funded residency, which you can visit to find out more about Jayne, her practice and to view some stunning images of her artworks: www. visualisingbreath.blogspot.com By Emma Filtness ALONG THE THAMES

Sportgraphic/Shutterstock.com

We may be known for our rowing row but our area is also home to the Great Britain hockey teams. Bisham Abbey National Sports Centre has trained some of our best athletes and London 2012 will showcase hockey to the world like never before. According to the Great Britain n Hockey; every minute of every match will be shown live by the BBC and an incredible 630,000 ticket holders – the third most of any of the 26 sports being contested in London - will witness live the speed, agility and incredible skills of the world’s top international hockey stars on the iconic blue and pink pitch at the Riverbank Arena. A yellow ball will be used to contrast against the pitch and provide spectators with the best possible viewing experience. At London 2012, both the men’s and women’s hockey competitions will begin with a preliminary phase: the 12 teams in each event will be divided into two pools of six, and each team will play every other team in their pool. The two best teams in each pool will qualify for the semi-

finals, the winners of which will go head-to-head for the gold. Those teams that do not qualify for the semi-finals will play off against the respective team in the opposite pool for classification positions 5-12. The women’s and men’s ccompetitions will be played on alternate days starting Sunday al 29 July, meaning that Great Britain will be in action on every day of the tournament. As well as 32 British athletes representing their country, Great Britain Hockey is immensely proud of the five British umpires and officials selected to officiate at London 2012. They are umpires Ged Curran, Hamish Jamson, Nathan Stagno and Frances Block and judge Sheila Morrow. If you want to find out about hockey check the website of your National Governing Body, go to thegamesandbeyond.com. For more information on the Hockey competition at London 2012 and the rules, go to the website of the International Hockey Federation (FIH), the governing body for the sport.

Hockey gets its name from the French word ‘hocquet’, which means shepherd’s crook. The first men’s Olympic Hockey final was played on 31 October 1908 in London. England beat Ireland 8-1. The first women’s Olympic Hockey competition was held at the Moscow 1980 Games. The influence of the British Empire on the development of Hockey is seen in the dominance of countries such as India, Australia and Pakistan at the Olympic Games. The first time an Olympic Hockey tournament was played on artificial turf t was at the Montreal 1976 Games. Hockey gets its name from the French word ‘hocquet’, which means shepherd’s crook. For the first time ever at the Olympic Games, the London 2012 hockey pitch is blue, rather than green.

The London 2012 Olympics: 27th July - 12th August and ParaOlympics: 29th August - 9th September

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The Craft & Design Experience

in Henley from 22-24 June

What’s on

Experience The Best In Contemporary Craft, Design and Art at

contemporary

Craft & Design Fair

22 –24 June Don’t miss this year’s Craft & Design Experience at the Henley Showground. Some of the very best British craftmakers have been selected to show their work. Whatever your taste, there is something for everyone here.

ADMIT E E ONE FR H WIT THIS AD see below

The organisers of The Craft and Design Experience are once again staging their contemporary craft fair in June at The Henley Showground within the Hambleden Estate, near Henley on Thames. The Craft and Design Experience has earned an enviable reputation for selecting only the very best professional designers, artists and craftsmen and, with the resurgence in interest in designer crafts, the event is expected to be as popular as ever. Visitors are able to shop for unusual contemporary items in a relaxing atmosphere, view a wide range of demonstrations or take part in various craft related workshops. For children there will be a storyteller, a make and take area and lots more. Work will be on sale from exhibitors working in many disciplines including furniture, textiles, jewellery, leatherwork, glass and more. Design of the exhibitors’ products must be of the highest standard to be selected, and must show true innovation and originality ensuring only the very best in UK design is represented.

HENLEY ON THAMES

Henley Show Ground, nr Hambleden

Opening times are 10 am – 5 pm each day. Advance tickets are now on sale at a reduced price or purchase on the door at £7.00 for adults, £6.00 for over 65s or children 5 – 16 £1.00. For further information and advance ticket sales contact CDE Ltd on 01622 747 325 or visit the website at www.craftexperience.co.uk.

Purchase direct from the leading makers Adults: £7 • Over 65’s: £6 • 5–16 years: £1 10am – 5pm daily • www.craftexperience.co.uk WORKSHOPS • DEMONSTRATIONS • ENTERTAINMENT

FREE ENTRY WITH THIS ADVERT! To qualify please complete and hand in on entry to the show. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer.

ATT

Name................................................................................................................................ Email ................................................................................................................................ Address ............................................................................................................................ Town .................................................................. Post Code........................................

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Kenton Theatre

The Wellcome Collection

Wednesday 13th June to Saturday 16th June 7.45pm Woodley Light Operatic Society presents Jekyll and Hyde – The Musical Jekyll & Hyde is pure, pulse-pounding theatre, with a lush, romantic pop score hailed as a modern classic, even before the show began its smash-hit Broadway run. (Contains adult themes and may not be suitable for children)

All tickets 0844 880 1846 - or woodleylightoperatic.ticketsource.co.uk

An amateur production. Sunday 24th June 3pm & 7pm Mo’s Stage School presents - Footloose – The Musical Based on the hit 80s movie, Footloose explodes onto the stage with exciting hit anthems including Let’s Hear It For The Boy, Holding Out For A Hero, Almost Paradise and of course the title track Footloose. Packed full of electrifying dance routines, this internationally successful show is guaranteed to get you on your feet. All tickets 0778 5233282 or mosstageschool@hotmail.co.uk

An amateur production. Wednesday 4th July 8pm Read Dance and Theatre College Showcase 2012 A show featuring the many talents of the next generation of musical theatre performers. The 2012 Graduates from Read College are heading off to some of the biggest dance and drama colleges in the UK. Supporters of the college’s work include Dame Judi Dench and Craig Revel Horwood. All tickets 08451 307408 - An amateur production. Friday 13th July 7.30pm, Saturday 14th July 2.30pm & 7.30pm, Sunday 15th July 12pm Artemis Studios Performing Arts School presents Oliver Twist - The Musical This adaptation was written by Reg Mitchell, with original music commissioned by Artemis and written by Derry Pope. Performed by students of Artemis Studios Performing Arts School. Suitable for children 8+ (some violence).An amateur production. Thursday 19th July 7.45 pm Whole Lotta Led As the only full-time, professional Led Zeppelin tribute band, approved byJimmy Page and recently recommended by Classic Rock magazine as one of the best tribute bands in the UK, Friday 20th July 7.45pm Young and Strange An Evening of Magic, Comedy and Variety A spectacular, fast-paced and engaging illusion show, performed by double act “Young and Strange”. A treat for the whole family. Closed in August for routine maintenance Please mention Along the Thames Magazine when booking.

contact the box office Monday to Friday 11am - 5pm, Saturday 10am - 1pm

01491 575698 OR VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR ALL PRODUCTIONS AT

www.kentontheatre.co.uk New Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 2BP Free Parking available in Waitrose car park after 6pm

ALONG THE THAMES

courtesy: Rama Knight/Wellcome Library

The Wellcome Collection is London’s ‘destination for the incurably curious’. Established in 2007, this free entry gallery and exhibition space aims to ‘present science in a completely new way: connected to art, history and to all sorts of other aspects of our lives’ (Ken Arnold, Head of Public Programs). Taking its name from founder, Sir Henry Wellcome (1853-1936), a pharmaceutical entrepreneur and keen traveler, the collection stimulates serious curiosity about science and medicine in a fun environment with facilities suitable for all members of the family. The collection is the public face of The Wellcome Trust, an independent charity founded in 1936 following instructions in Sir Henry’s will, which funds research into human and animal health. The trust is also active in promotion of open access to academic journals, believing that research should be available to all. Medicine Man Medicine Man is the permanent home to Sir Henry’s array of medical artifacts and artworks linked by the themes of medicine, life and art, which he gathered on his travels around the globe. Highlights from this strange and compelling collection range from the mundane to the macabre: Napoleon’s toothbrush, Florence Nightingale’s shoes, mummified human remains and antique surgical equipment. The more artistic members of your party can even produce their own drawings for public display. Due to some of its content, Medicine Man is designed for ages 14+, however accompanied children are permitted. For visitors aged 5-10, a Young Explorer’s activity pack is available. Brains: mind as matter - 29 March – 17 June 2012 As well as its permanent displays, The Wellcome Collection regularly holds temporary exhibitions. Visit the current exhibition of 150 artifacts including preserved brains, photographs, manuscripts, video footage and medical equipment, which asks ‘not what brains have done to us, but what we have done to brains. - Age: 14+. When you have finished exploring the galleries and exhibitions, relax with a latte and a muffin in the luxurious Peyton and Byrne café, marvel at the artworks displayed in the foyer and browse the specially stocked Blackwell’s bookstore and gift shop. The nearest Tube is Euston and entry is free! For more information:T: 020 7611 2222: E info@wellcomecollection.org W http://www.wellcomecollection.org by Joseph Norman

A summer of celebration with the National Trust at Cliveden

It is going to be a very special summer this year and the stunning National Trust gardens of Cliveden have lots of events and activities to help you join in the fun. Why not plan a day out at Cliveden and rediscover some of the simple pleasures our country has to offer. Stroll through beautiful gardens, look out over quintessentially English countryside, take a boat trip on the Thames and of course donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to treat yourself to a traditional cream tea with homemade scones in the cafĂŠ! For a perfect family day out, pick up the free summer trail, add a visit

to the Cliveden Maze and leave plenty of time to let imaginations run wild in the storybook themed play area. Children can get closer to nature every Wednesday in the local school summer holidays with special â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Wild Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; events and activities on offer (ÂŁ2 plus usual admission). Some of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best loved stories feature in the ever popular outdoor theatre programme including William Shakespeareâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Much Ado About Nothing (7 July) and Macbeth (3 August), Oscar Wildeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s The Importance of Being Earnest (21 July) and the Roald Dahl favourite The Twits (24 July). The performances

usually sell out so book early on 0844 249 1895 to avoid disappointment. Cliveden Rocks! returns on 13 and 14 July and this year the line up is better than ever with Utter Madness and Queen B on Friday 13 and Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the One (Robbie Williams Tribute) and The Magic of Abba on Saturday 14. Book your tickets in advance on 0844 249 1895 for ÂŁ27, or buy on the gate for ÂŁ32 and be part of this summer tradition.

For more information visit www.nationaltrust.org.uk/cliveden

or call 01628 605 069. Bookings fees apply.

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MINOX is extending its range of trailcam products with the introduction of the extremely compact MINOX DTC 500 Trailcam - practically half the size of conventional models. Discrete, intelligent and powerful - this convenient game/garden camera is an extremely helpful and reliable tool for the observation of animals in your garden. Great for really understanding what is going on that you wouldn’t normally be able to see. Resolution: 5.1 MP hardware resolution Display: 2.5” true colour TFT display Pictures: Colour (daytime) black & white (nighttime) Additional Info: date, time, temperature & moon phases. DTC 500 Trailcam - RRP £249.00

Binoculars

Boots & Shoes

What’s in your garden?

• • • • • • •

There is a lot more to cleaning boots and shoes than most of us realise, some handy hints are: Take the insoles out and let them dry. They can be washed at 30°C Take out boot laces and clean separately Remove dirt under running water with a brush Do not dry wet shoes/boots in direct sunlight or on heat generating units Stuff shoes/boots with newspaper or if you have them wooden stretchers to ensure boots keep their shape Never wash shoes/boots in the washing machine! Protect hooks & eyelets from corrosion by applying a wax, like vaseline

spotting scopes

and from MINOX offer cutting-edge technology and highest quality in all product classes, and are excellently suited for universal application in all fields of hunting and gamekeeping, as well as for the observation of flora and fauna in the wild. MINOX also accounts for the individual requirements of people wearing eyeglasses. With the extended eye relief, the entire field of view can be enjoyed without vignetting, also when wearing eyeglasses. Rotating rubber eyecups with individual adjustment are further convenient features. HG 8x43 BR Binocular – RRP £799.00 With their sharp optics and natural colour rendition, the MINOX HG binoculars already rank in the top binocular engineering class. Now MINOX engineers have been able to extend the field of view by up to 15%, demonstrating the latest technologies in the manufacturing of high quality binoculars. MINOX HG binoculars are delivered including an exclusive case, neoprene strap and rain-guard. BL 10x44 BR Binocular – RRP £499.00 Featuring an open bridge, these BL binoculars are extremely comfortable to handle and offer the user an excellent grip, even when conditions get tough. The open bridge also enables a safe and reliable operation, even single-handedly, allowing more freedom to move when out observing nature or hunting. BV 8x42 BR Binocular – RRP £199.00 Featuring multi-layer coated lens elements that minimize reflections and provide an exceptionally high light transmission as well as neutral colour rendition of the subjects in view. Thanks to roof prisms with phase correction coating, the user can enjoy an image with excellent detail rendition and high image contrast – even in low light conditions. The scope of delivery includes a neoprene strap, an eyepiece cap and an ever-ready case. For these and many other products and services visit Emmett & Stone Country Sports sales@escountrysports. co.uk or call 01628 474187. Visit us at www.escountrysports.co.uk/ Wilton Farm, Little Marlow, Buckinghamshire SL7 3RR the shop has easy access from the M4 and M40 with plenty of parking 16

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01628 474 187 www.escountrysports.co.uk ALONG THE THAMES

Red Admiral Butterfly

Comma Butterfly

Swallow Chicks

Country Wise The long days of summer are with us once again. The dark, short days of winter are a distant memory. With plenty to see and do in our countryside now is the time to be out and enjoying the warmth of the summer weather. As we write this, one of the wettest Aprils on record has just ended. Weather has an enormous effect on plants and animals. The very dry weather of the past two years is going to affect countryside events this year, so if we get some timings a bit wrong, bear with us. Drought is the biggest factor when it comes to predicting what will be out and when. It influences plants, insects and invertebrates. Some of these lifecycle depends on water. This year many of our waterways, ponds and rivers could be lower and dryer than we have seen in our lifetimes. Low water levels means a lack of habitat and the animals that need water to live in and feed from will, if predictions are right have a hard time this year. 18

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Ancient hay meadows in early June are at the peak of their glory. A habitat that is becoming a rare sight these days, they provide one of the most diverse habitats in the countryside. The rich vibrant colours of the flowering plants attract a wealth of insect life. Butterflies abound at this time of year and the nectar rich plants of meadows and gardens are their equivalent of a restaurant. Red Admirals, Peacocks, Painted Ladies, Commas, Large Whites, Green-veined Whites, and Small Whites all will be on the wing over the height of summer. Take a walk in meadows and woods to discover the Black Hairstreak, Speckled Wood or if you are lucky the Purple Emperor. Open water can attract Dragonflies. The smallest garden pond can be a good egg laying site and as long as it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t dry up, next year you could have Dragonflies in your garden. Dragonflies have a flight season and with different species on the wing at different times

Southern Hawker Dragonfly

of year. You are most likely to see one of the more common species such as Four Spotted, Black Tailed Skimmer, Emperor, Common Darter, Ruddy Darter Southern Hawker, & Broad Bodied Chaser. On a good warm day near a pond or ditch you may be lucky enough to see at least two or three of these species. Gardens and countryside are alive with the sight and sound of baby birds. You may not recognise them to begin with, but keep watching - an adult may come to feed its just emerged offspring, providing an easy identification. In a very short space of time plumage develops and their adult colours burst through. If you get the opportunity, take a close look using a pair of binoculars. Summer is a great time to be out looking at nature. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even better if the sun is shining. Make the long and hopefully hot days of summer a time to take a closer look at our countryside. Mark and Jacky Bloomfield Wildlife Photographers

Pest and diseases can be a cause for concern. Many diseases are fungal and can be made worse by poor air flow in gardens and orchards, leading to prolonged damp conditions within tree crowns, providing ideal conditions for disease to take hold. One of the most troublesome problems with fruit is codling moths laying eggs at the centre of flowers as they develop, so that when the fruit is picked and cut open there is a horrible black mess at the centre. There is a wide range of insecticides and fungicides both synthetic and organic that can be used to treat fruit tree problems.

There are also steps that can be taken to help suppress problems to an acceptable level. For example, grease bands can be fitted to tree sterns to prevent access to the tree by wingless female moths in early season. Also, old fruit should be removed from the ground around a tree, as rotting fruit can contain fungal and bacterial infections that may affect the new seasonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth. Encourage natural predators â&#x20AC;&#x201C; hang bird feeders in trees to encourage tits and finches to also feast on any aphids that may be lurking in the tree crowns. Bartlett Tree Experts

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Home & Garden

The problems with pests

FROM WICKED WITCHES TO CROQUET CAPERS This year, National Trust property Basildon Park in Berkshire offers a delightful assortment of summer entertainment for all ages. Here are four highlights from the season …. Pride and Prejudice – family theatre - 8 July Famously portrayed as the home of ‘Netherfield Park’ in the film adaptation of Pride and Prejudice starring Keira Knightley, Basildon Park once again plays host to this Jane Austen classic. Take a step back in time with Chapterhouse Theatre Company to meet Elizabeth Bennet and her sisters. Whilst her mother tries determinedly to pair Elizabeth off with the detestable Mr Collins, she encounters the rude but wealthy Mr Darcy, but is there more to him than meets the eye? Bring a picnic to the beautiful grounds of this 18th-century mansion and find out if it’s true that ‘…a single man in possession of a good fortune, must be in want of a wife.’ 8 July, 7-9pm, adult £14, child £9.50, gates open 6pm. Grimm’s Fairy Tales – family theatre - 20 July The Brothers Grimm spin tales of wicked witches, talking animals, plucky maidens and dashing adventurers in this deliciously dark and thrillingly inventive show. Brought to life by the Pantaloons, the production combines popular theatrical traditions such as clowning and mime, with stand-up comedy, providing en evening of exciting and unusual entertainment.

20 July, 7-10.30pm, adult £14, child £9.50 (not suitable for very small children), gates open 6pm. Summer Sports - 21 July – 2 September There’s loads of room in Basildon Park’s spacious gardens to run around in and play, and this summer, there are plenty of newgames to discover. Every day visitors can try out a sport on the lawns, from tennis and badminton to croquet, with sports-themed trails for children to explore, leading to a reward. On Wednesdays, there is even a spot of croquet tuition – keep an eye on the website for further details! Summer Sports: 21 July – 2 September, 10am – 5pm, free after normal admission. Crafty Kids - Wednesdays from 25 July to 29 August To tie in with the fantastic 1950s art exhibition in the house, Basildon Park is hosting a series of drop-in art activities for younger visitors every Wednesday throughout the summer holidays. Lots of fun and colour is on the cards with potato printing, paper marbling and much more! Crafty Kids: 25 July, 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 August, 10am – 5pm, free upon normal admission

Basildon Park, Lower Basildon, Reading, Berkshire RG8 9NR, Tel: 0118 984 3040. (Booking essential for all events - 0844 249 1895) 20

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garden design

Coleby & Faulkner

Garden Vistas When you have a beautiful view it provides the opportunity to connect your garden to the wider landscape. By using a clever blend of naturalistic plants you will echo the countryside beyond. Grasses to provide movement and a link to the fields, flowers which harmonise with the natural palette of wildflowers even when selected from better behaved garden varieties, and native shrubs and trees which will connect to distant woods. Choose plants with good autumn colour and winter structure to tone with the straw colours of autumn leaves. More naturalistic flowers and their seed heads will also attract a host of wildlife into your garden. In this way the garden softly enhances and frames the view without dominating or jarring.

creative design solutions : project management : horticultural specialists : consultancy

passionate about gardens

call Jill 01628 482820 or Vanessa 01628 477685

www.colebyandfaulkner.co.uk

Salvo Fair

The world’s biggest architectural salvage fair.

On Saturday 23rd and Sunday 24th June more than eighty exhibitors will set up displays of 800 tonnes of stock, all of it for sale. The best dealers from all over the UK, France, Belgium and Holland will bring architectural salvage, reclaimed materials, garden antiques, bygones. Stubbings Estate is very conveniently placed near Maidenhead between the M4 and M40, thirty miles west of central London. The site comprises of a splendid Georgian mansion house in the Maidenhead Thicket, with a garden nursery and glasshouse cafe. There is free car parking and an onsite cash machine. Salvo Fair ticket holders will have access to the private lawns for peace and picnics. Salvo Fair, Stubbings Estate, Henley Road, Maidenhead SL6 6QL Fri 22nd (Trade & Press only),

Sat 23rd and Sun 24th June 2012

Admission: Friday £15pp, Weekend £8 per adult £4 per child 4-16yrs Open: 11am - 5pm every day. Last admission 4pm Free car parking www.salvo-fair.com tel 01225 422300

Happy Gardening

The summer is fast approaching, and when the sun finally comes out, what better way to embrace it then to sit in your garden, with the family, and indulge in a pimms or two! Of course, the stress of re-developing a garden could mean that your weekends are taken up with trips to the garden centre, and evenings taking 22

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baths to soothe your sore back. Take away all that pressure by employing Debbie Smith Garden Designs – a specialist in building stylish and practical gardens tailor made to suit your every need. Whether you need a full design overhaul or just a bit of garden maintenance, there is no job too small.

Debbie is truly local, born in Maidenhead she chose to stay in Berkshire to bring up her two children, and to grow her passion for creating and maintaining beautiful outdoor spaces that fit her client’s needs and wants. The business has grown from strength to strength over the last four years - a qualified designer and gardener, her assistance in The Courtyard Garden category for BCA - Chelsea Flower Show 2009, even won her a Sliver Gilt Medal. Debbie says that her business has “two sides - Debbie Smith Garden Design, which is the design and Build side; and Debbies Gardening “A Womans Touch” which is Garden Maintenance. My business has Lady Gardeners who tackle all of the big jobs while paying great attention to detail in the garden.” For more information about her services head to her website www.debbiesmithgardendesign. co.uk or call on 07760 889064.

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White Rooms Psychology Colour psychology is the science behind how we feel in different coloured environments. Green and blue will make us relaxed, red and oranges fire us up and make good colours for rooms where conversation needs to be lively, yellow makes us happy or quite strangely, very argumentative. But what does white mean? White is pure, it is clean and crisp, it can be cold but it can also be very comforting. It all depends on what goes with it– which is why people choose it, because they think it goes with everything. But does it? Ill thought through white rooms will look bland, or clinical – or worse still - both. However, there are rules that help make the most of white walls and by using them, white will be at home in any house, be it contemporary, cosy cottage or period. The right white There are many different white paints to choose from and while you may be forgiven for thinking this is just a cruel marketing ploy, there is actually a reason. Each white will look different depending on whatever else it is being used with. Some period whites are positively grey but they will look white against other sludgy type colours. A pure white will look beautiful in a south facing room but use it in a north facing room and it will feel cold and stark. So you see it is important 24

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to choose the right white. Perception White is frequently used to enlarge the feeling of a room as the eye cannot see the boundaries quite so clearly so the room appears larger. In addition, white has such good reflective qualities that it will bounce the light around, enlarging the room further. This ability to reflect will also bounce back any other colours in the room and might even distort your vision of them. For example, a red feature wall in an otherwise white room will give the white walls a pink glow. Reflection Reflection is a wonderful characteristic in a white room and can be enhanced using mirrors and mirrored furniture, gloss painted ceilings, mother of pearl in small details or crystals in grand lighting displays. The distortion that reflection creates adds a new level of interest and this is one of the keys to successful decoration. Texture Texture is another way of bringing attention to the right places. A white painted brick wall is far more interesting than a smooth white surface. Add panelling or beading to a plain white cupboard or door and it will immediately gain new character. Texture within the room is also vital. White walls, white curtains and white loose covered furniture will look dull without the complexities of woollen fabrics,

hand tufted rugs, Mongolian fur cushions, intricately carved wood panels, shiny wooden floor boards or antiqued chairs and tabletops. All in glorious white. White plus one White rooms are very rarely devoid of colour altogether and are very successful when combined with one other colour. Think blue and white like Delftware, or the red and white of a Toile de Jouy, yellow and white has memories of the 60s and black used with white is a classic combination, giving a very sophisticated look to a room imagine checked black and white floors or better still the stunning styles from the Art Deco period. Brightly coloured furniture will pop out of a white setting. It could be a single piece with smaller accessories in the same colour to help the eye travel around the room. An Eames desk in primary colours perhaps, with a vase in red, or a bright yellow rug. Accessories The final word goes on the final touches and it is here that a white room can really benefit. Brightly coloured accessories will always bring a white room to life, from red and blue canvas floor cushions to cow hide rugs, a framed electric blue butterfly to a freshly cut bouquet of flowers that can be changed weekly to reflect the changing season and how you feel. Niki Schäfer - dwell-being designs

Telephone: 01628 898123 Email: tony@blind-inspiration.co.uk

All types of Blinds, Plantation shutters & Awnings - all supplied & fitted Manual or Electric controls available Family run business with over 20 years experience To visit our showroom, call for an appointment To see videos on some of our products go to

www.blind-inspiration.co.uk

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The Peaceful Painter House Painting Interior & Exterior Complete Professional Service 10 Years Experience Free Estimates

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5 Tips for moving home Moving house is one of the most stressful events in your life. Being organised is the best way to ensure the day goes without a panic attack! 1. De-Clutter Packing is never fun, but make sure you don’t move things you don’t need! Go through the rooms and either chuck, sell or take to the charity shop. It is a good idea to start packing up at least two weeks in advance – there are plenty of items that won’t be used in that time. 2. Insurance Checking that your insurance covers transit is a must when you are packing precious items – removal firms will usually have their own, but check what it covers and whether there are exclusions. 3. Think of the family Pets included! Kids and animals aren’t helpful when you have to direct the boxes – arrange for

everyone to be out for the day. 4. Mark it up It may seem silly to write a list of what you are moving – but an inventory, and marking your boxes, can be a real benefit when unpacking; especially when you are desperate to find the kettle! 5. Redirect and cancel Advise the post office to redirect your post, cancel internet, milk and newspapers and inform the bank that you have moved. Make a list of everyone who should know about the move – and send change of address cards.

Oh, and finally – don’t forget to collect the keys!

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Aīordable OrthodonƟc Treatments for Adults, Children and Teenagers

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Wish A pair of white trousers is a holiday essential. If you have a favourite pair that has been worn on many occasions make sure it is still vibrant and crisp and not tired and faded. Buying a new pair is a versatile investment so don't hesitate if you think it's necessary 2

Now your trousers are sorted you have an easy job in picking those pretty summer tops. It gives you a chance to either experiment with prints or wear plain tops and play with accessories

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If bold prints and bright colours are not your cup of tea then stick to nude, black and white and experiment with lots of accessories. You will look effortlessly chic and sophisticated. 34

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Don't forget about updating your beachwear. Swimming costumes are the first to wear out along with your kaftans. Make sure you have at least one special kaftan for those unexpected situations like a lunch on a yacht or a drink at the swanky beach bar!

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Summer maxi dresses are still going strong this season. If you want to make a fashion statement, tribal print is very now! Alternatively, you might have a 'last season' black jersey number that is perfectly ok. Wear it with a nice summer hat, an understated necklace or go a wild and team it with gorgeous summer wedges in shimmery gold and a statement choker for that wow effect.

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Codeword Each letter in this puzzle is represented by a number between 1 and 26. The codes for three letters are shown. As you find the letters enter them in the box below.

Swish Boutique 36

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5 Liston Court, Marlow

tel: 01628 476467

web: www.swishboutique.co.uk

No. 25 have more than Special Occasion Wear! Our Casual Collections are: Chianti, Lindi, Libra, Michaela Louisa and Marble. Also - Lots of accessories from Dents and Gaby's plus leather pumps by Riva

25-27 The Parade, Bourne e End, Bucks. SL8 5SB Tel: 01628 528877 E-Mail: Enquiries@No25ofBourneEnd.co.uk Web: www.No25ofBourneEnd.co.uk ALONG THE THAMES

Alexander’s Hair Surgery For this issue, I thought it would be a good idea to talk about an all too often missed, but important aspect of your hair care routine. - The conditioning treatment. Why is it so important and how will it benefit you? Clients often misdiagnose a problem by assuming that if their hair feels a certain way, then that’s how it is. e.g. “I know I’ve over done it with the colouring, ironing and blow drying and now my hair feels so dry.” However, what does dry feel like? If you take the term “dry” literally, even when your hair is in good condition and you have just finished styling it, then isn’t it dry? As opposed to wet that is. So, the term “dry” can be very misleading. No wonder we get it horribly wrong most of the time and then just don’t bother with treatments and somehow we end up in such a pickle when they don’t work! OK. To understand conditioning treatments, I need to tell you a little about the structure of hair. When you look at hair, what you see is the inside. This part makes up 70% of the hairs total structure and volume and consists mostly of a protein called Keratin and a few other ingredients. This is where your colour or perm lives. When you touch your hair, what you feel is the outermost layer, the cuticle.

What a difference a treatment makes The cuticle is transparent and looks like kind of overlapping scales which can be 6 to 13 layers deep. These scales point away from the scalp. Think of the cuticle as the “doorway” into hair. When this layer is damaged, (it could have been melted, ripped off or hanging open) it can then feel rough. Mmmmm, nice. This is where a conditioning treatment comes into its own. Sometimes referred to as a “deep conditioning masque” this type of product is designed to replace or fortify what has been lost within the internal structure of the hair. You will still need to use a conditioner. You can only repair damage from the outside. I.e. eating more protein will not repair damaged ends. Drinking more water will not moisturise your hair. However, beware if a product claims to

“instantly” repair damaged hair. This type of product probably is only just “filling” all the spaces with who knows what and not really “repairing” at all. Conditioning treatments need to be “prescribed” by a professional to get the best results and you must, must do what you are told. Some of the best treatments I have come across are; Philip Kingsley’s Elasticizer, anything by Merlin and Joico. Redken also make some good treatments as well as Wella, Schwarzkopf and L’Oreal. Professional salon use ranges that is! Adding a treatment to your hair care routine on a regular basis, (that’s every fortnight and not just when you remember!), will make a great difference to the behaviour and manageability of your hair and style. So get treating now!

Alexander Parsons has been in the hairdressing industry for 30 years and has worked for a variety of major local salons, and has taken care of clients from all over the world with many different professions and lifestyles. “I think that I have just about seen or heard it all! However, from time to time, there are a few surprises!” Alexander is currently working at Stoke Park Salon in Stoke Poges (www..stokepark. com) and his unique take on all matters hairdressing makes him very popular with his clientele. 38

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And one For the men..... Millions of men all over the world share a common problem - they suffer from tough stubble that defies the attentions of every shaving cream or foam known to man, and blunts the edge of even the keenest razor. These men are known as “Blue-Beards”. These testosterone filled men, with jawlines of sand paper tough stubble, have suffered for eternity down to their masculine beard growth, but they can breathe a (manly) sigh of relief, as there is finally a shaving solution that works! Designed by a real life ‘Blue Beard’ who was bored to death with being a Desperate Dan lookalike, the stand out product from the range is a paraben free, premium quality shaving cream with added ingredients such as Decelerine (scientifically proven to reduce hair growth over a period of time by providing moisturisation and protection) to specifically combat tough stubble and reduce hair growth, as well as tackle common shaving problems like razor rash, burn, ingrowing hairs, lumps and bumps, meaning a man can get on with what he does best - manliness - without sporting a 5 o’clock shadow by lunchtime!

The Shaving creams recommended retail price is £9.99 and doubloon brush is £6.99. These can be purchased from Bentalls in Kingston and Menkind in Westfields. or for a list of stockists visit - http://www.bluebeardsrevenge.co.uk/stockists/united-kingdom.php For more information and the full range of products visit www.bluebeards-revenge.co.uk

With over 25 years of experience in the hairdressing industry, Ciro Didonna opened his own Salon, Didonna, in Marlow Bottom in 2011. Ciro’s last ten years were spent in Marlow itself so he is no stranger to the area. Di Donna uses techniques developed in Italy and the UK as well as some of Ciro's own, so you can be secure in Ciro's styling and colouring expertise. Alongside Ciro, is Daniel and Angela, who can also style, cut and colour your hair. A ladies cut starts from £40, children's £15 and colour/highlights from £40. The salon boasts a relaxed, yet chic Mediterranean feel, bright and airy and easy to find, located on the corner of New Road and Marlow Bottom Road. There is ample parking as well as a dedicated parking bay for Didonna itself. Open everyday bar Monday, Ciro and his team would like to welcome you to Didonna. For more information or to book an appointment

Opening hours: Tues and Wed: 9:30 - 18:00, Thurs: 10:00-19:30, Fri: 9:30-19:00, Sat: 9:00-17:00

call 01628 477292

2 Kingswood Parade, New Road, Marlow Bottom, Bucks. SL7 3NT

didonna

hairdressing

Tel: 01628 477 292

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It’s in the air....... Finally the bright mornings and long evenings are upon us. We can finally make the most the outdoors whether it be down the park or sitting out in pub gardens. That certainly is my idea of enjoying the warm season but how about those suffering from hay fever and seasonal allergies? Well, as I recall too clearly, my GP advised to “remain indoors until the green season is over” when I presented him with my one year old little angel covered in itchy angry looking little wheels. After getting over of the initial shock of such pointless medical wisdom, I figured out that my son was yet another victim of a common allergic reaction called urticaria, or hives, and was reacting to grass pollen just like 25% of the British population. What my patients tough me, and is now informed by medical research, is that seasonal allergic sufferers often live this time of year in a completely debilitating state with symptoms ranging from sneezing to itchy swollen eyes. Researches measure this with a Quality of Life questionnaire assessing sleep pattern, work performance, general level of energy, etcetera, all of which is addressed during your consultation with a homeopath. Remedies such as Arsenicum can be very effective for runny nose with sore skin under the nostrils, whereas Euphresia would specifically target itchy, red eyes and Apis would have been ideal in my son’s case as the key indication is a skin reaction in the shape of small itchy blisters. Long-term effects of hay fever are not to be underestimated as the extent of the condition is such that a clear correlation is established between seasonal rhinitis and asthma, but also chronic eczema. So one would be trapped in the vicious circle of sneezing from May till August with a cough or itch from September till March. The point of holistic therapies is to reverse the flow by quick stat a “virtuous circle” starting by re-enforcing the immune system and dealing with the acute reactions at the start of the pollen season. This is called a constitutional treatment ideally starting in January / February time. Besides the wonderful results achieved with homeopathy, St Thomas in London now offers such preventive treatment under the name of Immunotherapy where the patient receives a small liquid dose of the identified allergen (tree, flower or grass pollen) daily. Anyhow, if you are at the worse of the your 40

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“green season”, here are a few tips to help you to minimize the effects without “remaining in doors”: 5ml of Black seed oil daily over a 4 weeks period can help to control allergic symptoms Have a quick shower when you return home and wash your hair. Just a quick rinse is sufficient to wash away the pollen Do not air your clothes outside however tempting a sunny day might be Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the pollen exposure If you have to resort to anti-histamine, ask your pharmacy for non-sedating tablets. Taking a dose at bedtime is also a good idea to feel a lot more refreshed in the morning Sophie Ward The views expressed here are those of the author and do not represent or constitute medical advice. If you are in any doubts or you have been diagnosed with a medical condition, always seek the advice of your medical practitioner.

Enjoy the great outdoors this summer In the summer, there really is nothing better than the great outdoors. On a recent wood walk, I noticed a den built in a tepee style out of sticks and it made me nostalgic for my past. All those long summer days spent wandering around the countryside, just me, my friends and nature. Do you remember your favourite place to play as a child? Where was it? I bet it was out of doors and away from adults. And it was a “wild” place - not truly wild perhaps, but a little grubby, and quite possibly a bit dangerous. Well – through a child’s eye anyway. It’s a bit different for today’s children however. I know when my children were younger, I was very reluctant to let them wander further than the end of our garden, and even now as teenagers, I still worry when they are out playing football on the common or on their bicycles. But, given the chance, children love nothing more than to roam outdoors – not too far, but further enough away to feel to make them feel grown up. And to make them know we trust them. And parents, too, say that they want their children to be able to play outside more. Yet children are disappearing from the outdoors at a rate that would make them almost an endangered species. With childhood obesity on the increase, the physical benefits of outdoor play are obvious. But there is well documented evidence that children’s mental health and emotional well-being is enhanced by contact with the outdoors. I certainly know that if I am stressed, a simple walk in the woods near my house restores my sense of well-being quite quickly. Parents will obviously always worry about their children running wild on their own, but there are many organised and supervised activities out there that they can send them to which will meet their concerns. Many of these places are not expensive either – in fact a large majority of them are virtually free. If you do one thing this long summer holiday, make it spending some time with your children outside. Go for a walk along the river – the Thames path goes for miles along a variety of scenery. Find some woods and make stick people or a den. Go for a walk across farmland where there are public footpaths and look out for wild animals as well as farm ones. Or, sit under the shade of a large tree and read a book. Look for fairies in a glade in the woods. All these things are free and extremely easy to do. But above all have a brilliant summer in the great outdoors. Vanessa Woolley ALONG THE THAMES

LOCAL CLUB EVENTS: Marlow Archaeology Society 14th June, 8pm, Garden Room, Liston Hall, Marlow -Vikings in the Thames Valley - David Griffiths www.marlow-archaeology.org/ Archaeology in Marlow 21st June, 8pm Liston Rd, Marlow Practical Archaeology in a chalk stream valley from Bronze Age to Tudors Yvonne Edwards www.marlow-archaeology.org/ Marlow Camera Club For up to date details of events www.marlowcc.org Midas Antique Fairs Crowne Plaza, Marlow Every 4th Sunday, 10 - 4pm Marlow Society For up to date details of events www.marlowsociety.org.uk

27th July - 12th August London Summer Olympics ON-GOING EVENTS Marlow Museum Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holidays, 1 - 5pm Pound Lane - opposite the Leisure Club Stanley Spencer Gallery 1st April - 4th November, 10.30am - 5.30pm daily

Old Thatch Gardens 12th May - 31st August, 2 - 5pm every Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday

THEATRE AND MUSICAL EVENTS

Marlow Music Makers Summer Concert 6th & 7th July, 7.30pm United Reformed Church, Oxford Road, Marlow,. Kenton Theatre - See page 14 www.kentontheatre.co.uk BUSINESS/NETWORKING EVENTS Business Biscotti - Marlow Every second Thursday 9.30 - 11.30am Danesfield House Hotel, Marlow www.businessbiscotti.co.uk Thames Valley Business Womens Group Every second Monday 7pm for 7.30pm start CIM, Cookham, www.TVBWG.com Business Biscotti - Maidenhead Every third Thursday 9 - 11am Temple Golf Club, Maidenhead www.businessbiscotti.co.uk SPECIAL EVENTS Out of the Dark Projects see page opposite for details. Marlow Regatta 1 6th & 17th June, Dorney Lake, Eton 17th June - Father’s Day Key to Events:

Charity Events

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For more information/tickets: www.scannappeal.org.uk/activities or 01494 734161 for tickets Euro 2012 Football Screening Friday 15 June 2012, doors open 6.30pm - kick off 7.30pm Rebellion Brewery, Marlow Bottom England vs Sweden match. Beer kindly provided by the Rebellion Brewery. BBQ supper. Limited places. Tickets: £25 - in advance - incl. beer and BBQ The Manor House Wednesday 27 June, 2pm - 4pm Hambleden, nr Henley on Thames An exceptional walled rose garden designed by Peter Beales. Tickets: £4 per adult - in advance Wycombe Wander Twilight Ten Sponsored Walk Saturday 7 July 2012, from 9pm Start/Finish at Adams Park, High Wycombe - Choice of either a 10 mile or a shorter 10 kilometre sponsored walk around High Wycombe, in aid of Scannappeal and the South Bucks Hospice. Teams must have a minimum of four people with minimum age of 16 years. All registrations must be in by Friday 15 June 2012. Entry: £15 in advance only - includes T-shirt, refreshments, medal and light supper at the finish

Weddings

One-off events

Clubs for Adults

STUBBINGS NURSERY Stubbings Estate, Henley Road, Maidenhead SL6 6QL www.stubbingsnursery.co.uk Salvo Fair 23rd and 24th June Jazz Concert 19th July Opera: La Boheme, Puccini 20th July Box office: 01628 820140 Opera: La Traviata,Verdi 21st July Box office: 01628 820140 Berkshire Food & Craft Fair 29th and 30th September For more information or changes to the schedules as listed please call Marlow Information Centre on 01628 483597 Longridge, Marlow t: 483252 - e:bookings@longridge-uk.org Many clubs meet regularly at Liston Court, Chapel Street.- contact them directly on t: 472 558 Marlow Antique bric-a-brac fair meets 1st Saturday of the month at Liston Hall from 9-4pm The Farmers Market, Marlow, Dean Street Car Park every Sunday, 10am - 2pm Bourne End Country Market product Small Hall 10 - 12 , Every Friday

If you would like your event advertised contact 01628 771 419 / 07711 887107 or e: office@AlongTheThames.co.uk

Theatre & Music

Business Meetings

Community

World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF UK)

Policing matters Be alert during your celebrations

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with WCRF UK

Invite WCRF UK to your special occasion by creating an online celebration page, personalised with messages and a photo. Request donations instead of gifts and support our vital cancer prevention research and education. Visit www.wcrf-uk.org/celebrate and start celebrating! World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF UK), 22 Bedford Square, London, WC1B 3HH, Tel: 020 7343 4200 Web: www.wcrf-uk.org/celebrate Email: events@wcrf.org Registered with the Charity Commission in England and Wales (Registered Charity No: 1000739)

I am aware that this summer many of you are planning to celebrate the various events that are planned for 2012 - weather permitting it should be a fun time for all. As part of your festive plans I would like you to consider the security of your houses during the event. If I know the streets where the parties are then so does “Billy Burglar”. Even if you are just nipping back to get an extra bottle of ‘Chateaux de Falling Down’ or another tray of cucumber sandwiches, make sure that you leave your house secure. This includes locking all of your doors and windows and setting the alarm if you have one. Those of you in Neighbourhood watch schemes will be aware that the old ringmaster system of contacting you has finished but we have replaced it with a new system called Thames Valley Alert. This is an excellent communication system where we can keep you informed of what crime is happening in your area and what we would like you to look out for. You can receive this information by voice, email or even text message. We can also tailor the messages by geographical area or even by demographics. You will even be able to contact us through the system. If you want to sign up for Thames Valley Alert then visit us at our website at www.thamesvalley.police.uk. Inspector Ray Wilks The views expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of the Thames Valley Police

Marlow Art and Craft Society meets first Thursday ursdayy in the month at Marlow Bottom Village Halll at 7.30. Speaker for June, Tiffany Budd - mixed ed media and Abstracts. No meeting for August. gust. Contact: marlow.art.crafts@hotmail.co.uk o.uk

Book now for the

August/September issue Deadline 13th July T: 01628 771419 / M: 07711 887107 E: office@AlongTheThames.co.uk “The man who stops advertising to save money is like the man who stops the clock to save time”

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Be one of the first to read these latest titles 5.30am Without Warning: A True Legal Nightmare ... By Jakki Sidney 5. 5 This Th is a true story. The Davidsons were ordinary people, with a happy T marriage and a daughter at dance school. But when Claire’s innocent m accountant husband Matt got inadvertently caught up with gangland ac criminals in the late 90s it changed their lives forever. And so began cr a sickening spiral of sophistry and scandal. In their desperation to pin a conviction on the criminals the police and the Crown Prosecution Service began a persecution of Matt in a case that was to drag on Se for fo years. A writer as well as a wife, Claire fought hard to help her husband through his ordeal. Uncovering corruption, confused process hu and an conceit within the justice system, Claire never doubted her husband and Matt never wavered from asserting his innocence. But hu can ca innocent people really take on the legal establishment and win? Fo your chance to win one of 3 copies of “5.30am Without Warning” by Jakki Sidney, please For send your name and address to competition@AlongtheThames.co.uk by 13th July, 2012.. se

Louis Philippe D’Orleans, King of the French, 1773-1850 - Unsung Hero ... By Ann Allestree Who was Louis Philippe – Duc de Chartres, Duc d’Orléans and finally, King of the French, from 1830to 1848? What sort of man was he? What motivated him? What informed his decisions and beliefs? And what were the key moments that shaped his remarkable life? From his early sympathies with the liberal foundations of the French Revolution and his own military campaigns as a young duke to his final crowning as the first King of the French, Louis Philippe’s life was a rollercoaster ride of intrigue, infamy and exile. He fought bravely in battle. He travelled the Swiss Alps incognito as a schoolteacher before setting sail for Scandinavia, the United States and eventually England, where he lived out the full terrors of French revolutionary fervour from across the Channel. Angelo – An Autobiography ...By Angelo Xuereb Angelo Xuereb was no ordinary little boy; he spent his time planning and constructing rooms out of rubble, working tirelessly on his father’s farm and dreaming of a time when he would be a successful businessman. Even at a young age there was no doubt in his mind and this is a trait that would take him all the way to the top. Angelo’s determination and defiance led him to seek out his fortune alone, with only a small loan from his girlfriend to get him started. From these humble beginnings, he went on to create AX Holdings, a multi-million-Euro group of companies, and to reign as Mayor of his home town. This book will make you succeed! BOOK GUILD

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing ion

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PUBLISHING 44

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To order, please call 01202 665432 (weekdays only) or visit www.bookguild.co.uk to view our other titles

Marlow Music Makers Summer concert will be held on Friday, 6th and Saturday, 7th July at the United Reformed Church, Oxford Road, Marlow, starting at 7.30 pm. Tickets for the concert, which includes a glass of wine and light refreshments during the interval, are £9. Tickets from Insight Opticians, High Street, Marlow or by telephoning 01628 484618 or 01494 883392.

Protect your Smart phones and electrical items with a ‘tracker’ app Thames Valley Police is advising people who own Smart phones and other electrical items, to protect them by installing a ‘tracker’ application as they have become an indispensable accessory making them more desirable to thieves. Some devices, have the capability to run ‘tracker’ applications. These applications track the device’s location, using Global Positioning Satellite (GPS) technology. If the device is lost or stolen, the owner can use a computer to log on to their account and see on a map, where the device is located. The location of the device will be shown in real time and is usually accurate, to within yards. Not all devices have this capability, but the new iPhones, iPads and Samsung Galaxy phones do have tracker apps provided by the manufacturers. You can help protect your belongings by following these simple steps: • Install a tracker application on your Smart phone, tablet or laptop, it could help trace your device if stolen. • Seek advice from the manufacturer of your device

about which tracker application to use downloading unknown software could damage the device and invalidate your warranty • If your device is stolen, act quickly - inform the police and tell them you have a tracker app installed • Do not attempt to retrieve the device yourself, as it could put you in danger Acting Superintendent Dave Gilbert, from the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead LPA said: “Installing a tracker application could help trace your device and, the person who stole it. If your device is stolen, and you have a tracker app installed, let us know as quickly as you can. Don’t try to get the device back yourself – you could end up in a dangerous situation. Your safety is more important than items of property.”

COMPETITION

ALERT

Celebrate the Best of British on Friday 29th June and wear your sporting Wrong Trousers to help change the lives of sick children in local hospitals and hospices across the UK.

HOT LINE 0845 600 1924

www.wrongtrousersday.org

Supported by

Kindly sponsored by

*Competition details on the website Wallace & Gromit’s Children’s Foundation supports children’s healthcare throughout the UK. Registered Charity Number 1096483 © Aardman/Wallace & Gromit Limited 2012

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Things You Didn’t Know About… Dogs

Dogs Help You Lose Weight – and Improve Your Love Life According to Michigan State University, dog owners are fitter than people who do not have a dog and are 34% more likely to achieve the daily recommended exercise target. Dogs on the Titanic The sinking of the Titanic killed more than 1,500 humans but there were also 12 dogs on board, only three of which survived: two Pomeranians and a Pekingese. Growling Is Not Dominance Acting scary by baring teeth, growling and snarling is a natural defense mechanism for many species when they feel threatened. Growling is simply a clear signal of the dog’s internal emotional state: “back off!”. Dogs Aren’t Pack Animals For generations, people involved with dogs, a social species, repeated the phrase: “dogs are pack animals”. However, research into what dogs do when not inserted into human families such as when they are left to roam free has shown us more about feral and semi-feral populations of dogs around the world. There are many of these populations and it turns out, to everyone’s surprise – they don’t live in packs. They form loose, transitory associations with other dogs. The Critical 13 Weeks A dog’s brain stops physically developing at approximately 13 weeks, which is when the dog’s “critical socialisation period” ends: the extremely time-sensitive period when the dog’s behaviour blueprint is formed. If the dog doesn’t receive sufficient exposure to things during this period (men, children, fluorescent jackets), they will be naturally fearful of them 46

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later in life. All fearful or reactive behaviour in dogs can be prevented during puppyhood. 30 Years of Puppy Training In January 1982, my mentor Dr. Ian Dunbar developed and taught the world’s first puppy training class, making 2012 the 30th anniversary of puppy training. Prior to 1982, people waited until the dog was six months old before attempting to train them. Puppies Must Bite Puppies have very weak jaws, so nature provided them with sharp teeth: when they bite it hurts. Feedback to the biting puppy that they need to ease up on the bite -if you punish puppies for biting, they don’t learn how hard to bite without causing injury and will develop into dogs who have blunt teeth - but extremely powerful jaws. Stop Jumping Up In Seconds Dogs jump up to gain social contact, so the quickest way to show dogs that the jumping up is unwanted behaviour is to turn around and walk away. Then approach them and try again. They jump, you walk off. They’ll eventually sit and you can lavish with praise. Playing Tug Doesn’t Make Dogs Aggressive There is simply no evidence that suggests that playing tug with your dog makes them aggressive, no matter what the breed. The Most Effective Punishment Dogs are a social species so, for the most effective punishment, introduce a 2 minute “time out” by walking away. Only let them out when they are quiet – the punishment is over when they’re out. For more information on dog training and behaviour: www.JezRose.co.uk

The Finish Line Sunrise on the last day

Morning came around as early as ever. This was going to be a big ride down to Lake Naivasha and there was an air of urgency to get started. We rode into the Rift Valley. The soil was red and fertile, the rain of the previous night making the surface both slippery and sticky. We climbed the escarpment, getting views of Mount Longonot. In the morning we saw wild baboons, impala and zebra. That afternoon we rode along the floor of the valley passing herds of cows that would have looked more at home on Jersey. We finished the day on road riding into camp at Fishermans Lodge on the shores of Lake Naivasha. There was an air of discontentment amongst some of the riders. I was having a good time but others in the group were not. One particular clique moaned constantly. Apparently no one had told them it would be hot and dusty in Africa. It’s not the Costa Brava, it says CHALLENGE on the T shirts, and it’s meant to be hard, so deal with it! By contrast the star of the trip had to be Mark, a guy from Bromley about my age with cerebral palsy. He rode the whole distance one handed. When he fell off, he got back on again, without complaint. At the lakes edge we saw a hippo, two storks and a flock of pelicans. We sat outside the bar drinking beer while monkeys showered us with debris from the trees above for their amusement. Hells Gate National Park was hot and very dusty. We were riding at walking pace in soft dry sand, no easy feat. The magnificent rock outcrops were home to families of eagles. Further down into the park we saw more zebra and giraffe. After lunch and a rest we began the descent into the gorge. The sides of the gorge were very steep. We had to carry our bikes down with help from the Masai. Once at the foot I found the riding difficult and frustrating. My front wheel kept digging into the sand and stopping the bike dead. Eventually I reached the end of the gorge and the water stop. We paused for

about twenty minutes to take in a drink and for Paul to pull an acacia thorn from Dave’s foot with his pliers. The last leg of the days ride took us to camp. Or rather where camp should have been. Camp had mistakenly been pitched 15 miles up the road. It was about 6.00 p.m. by the time the last riders arrived. Sundown was 7.10 p.m. sharp. On the equator it is like someone just turns the lights off, bang it’s gone. In addition, clouds were gathering and the thunder was rumbling. At 6.30 p.m. the trucks eventually rolled up and everyone pitched in. By 7.00 p.m. every tent was up and the air of mild panic from an hour earlier was gone. The last days riding felt strange. I set off from camp with a feeling of disbelief that it was almost over. We crossed a vast and expansive plain before reaching the road that was to take us the last 8 miles to the finish line. 2 miles short of the finish we stopped to watch and photograph a herd of giraffe at relatively close quarters. Inquisitive animals, it was difficult to decide who was studying who. We crossed the finish line, it was over. We boarded the buses for the journey back to Nairobi. As we trundled along the potholed highway I sat next to the window with my bandanna wrapped around my hands to shield my sunburn from the sun, and then disaster struck. The driver pulled over. A loud hiss of steam erupted from the engine followed by an acrid smell. The head gasket had blown. After half an hour we boarded the backup Land Cruisers leaving the staff to wait with the crippled bus. We rolled into Nairobi late and tired. A shower, a shave, and a change of clothes later I was ready for dinner at Carnivore. The following day the bus collected us and whisked us off to the airport, all too soon. In the departure lounge everyone was subdued. The event was over, but we had raised over £365,000 for Scope. The February morning air at Gatwick was so cold it stung my sunburnt skin. I stood on the arrivals concourse waiting for my lift home. Life was never going to be quite the same again. Mike Beckley ALONG THE THAMES

Travel

400km cycle ride across Kenya in support of the charity ‘Scope’

The Maldives nature’s playground Maafushivaru Island Resort

Maafushivaru Island Resort

Kuramathi Island Resort

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Kuramathi Island Resort

If, like me, you’ve been recently inspired by explorer Simon Reeves and his Indian ocean epic journey series for the BBC, then no doubt you are planning a trip to the Maldives. In fact the Maldives has once again topped Kuoni’s annual poll of where Brits want to spend their holidays. In Kuoni’s Top Ten selling destinations for 2012, this Indian Ocean archipelago has held on to the top slot since 2005. To describe the islands as beautiful, idyllic, and stunning does not do them justice and in this instance a picture really does say a thousand words. However, having trawled through numerous websites and brochures I am not convinced it is possible to do the Maldives on a shoestring (although I am happy to be wrong!) A visit to the Republic of the Maldives will set you back quite a bit, but for many it is a once in a life time experience. Although isolated in location getting to the Maldives from Europe is straight forward with major airlines flying to the Malé International Airport, which is just 15 minutes away from the Maldives island capital Malé. From Malé island resorts can be reached by sea or by light aircraft. Be aware once there travelling independently from resorts or without a tour operator is difficult especially if you want to visit local communities. A couple of unique features of the Maldives are the Island spas as well as the diving and snorkelling. Kuoni offer a range of packages. Exclusive to Kuoni is the 4.5-star Maafushivaru Island Resort Maldives. Maafushivaru provides an idyllic island hideaway with barefoot luxury, turquoise waters and the archipelago’s finest coral reefs. This small island at just 500m in length is reached in 30 minutes by seaplane. Relax by the beachfront infinity pool or discuss those life-changing decisions over a lobster dinner at the nearby deserted island. Holiday: Kuoni (01306 747008/www. kuoni.co.uk) offers 7 nights on 4.5-star Maafushivaru in a beach villa on all-inclusive basis, including flights with British Airways from Gatwick, transfers in resort and access to

the capital the VIP lounge in Male Airport upon departure. island of Malé. Prices for July 2012 from £1,924 per person The resort based on two sharing. To book please quote encompasses IO0625 (price includes one bonus night). 100 There is also 4-star Kuramathi Island Resort contemporary – Kuoni’s most popular resort in the Maldives, villas and Kuramathi also offers fabulous All Inclusive options residences. and a vast range of accommodation, facilities and Dusit Thani dining. Holiday: Kuoni (01306 747008 www.kuoni. Maafushivaru Island Resort Maldives co.uk) offers 7 nights on 4-star Kuramathi Island has the Resort in a deluxe beach villa on all-inclusive largest infinity swimming pool in the Maldives - 750 basis, including flights with British Airways from m², with a beautiful Cyprus tree at the centre. The Gatwick, transfers in resort and access to the VIP resort’s wellness centre, Deverana Spa, is also lounge in Male Airport upon departure. Prices one-of-a-kind with six tree-top treatment pods for July 2012 from £1,866 per person based on elevated above a grove of coconut trees, providing two sharing. To book please quote MV176 (price unmatched vistas of the island includes one bonus night). and turquoise lagoon. A As well as being the As well as being the ideal special feature of Dusit Thani ideal place to relax on a place to relax on a beach is that it has an onsite marine beach the Maldives are also the Maldives are also of biologist to accompany guests of geographical interest with thousands of fish, geographical interest with on trips within the UNESCO Reserve. There are abundant marine life and thousands of fish, abundant Biosphere also opportunities to explore coral reefs. There are 1190 marine life and coral reefs. the reef during the night, join islands in the Maldives with reef clean-ups and monitor 99 featuring resorts. The sea turtle nesting habits official tourism site for while staying at the resort. To find out more go to the islands is www.visitmaldives.com where www.dusit.com/dusit-thani/maldives.html. you can find background information on the Niyama Maldives is located in the southMaldives - not as thorough as some tourism sites, western Dhaalu Atoll, a 40 minute seaplane flight but still a good starting point to plan your trip. There is a great deal of choice in terms of resorts from the capital island of Malé, and is situated over two idyllic islands: Embudhufushi and Olhuveli. to stay in. If you want to try something brand new The resort features 87 secluded beach and water the resorts below have only just opened in 2012. studios and pavilions, most with a private pool. Viceroy Maldives is located in Shaviyani Atoll, Niyama has a modern, edgy design, balancing 192 km from the capital island of Malé and the tranquility with a sense of fun. The resort has five International Airport. The resort is located on the dining venues, including the luxury campfire setting private island of Vagaru on the Maldives’ uncharted of Tribal - complete with tiki torches, sand floors northern edge and is spread across 17 acres of and open flames. Niyama’s signature restaurant palm-edged sand with 61 bungalows encircling a and lounge Edge is 500 metres offshore and startlingly blue lagoon. Access to Vagaru Island is only accessible by boat. According to Niyama easily accommodated via seaplane, less than an hour flight from Malé. The resort features five dining Maldives it will boast the world’s first underwater club, situated beneath the resort’s offshore Edge venues, including the luxurious East African-inspired restaurant. Six metres below the seas’ surface, Sub restaurant, Treehouse. Other facilities include a wine cellar, spa consisting of seven private suites Six will open soon. By night Sub Six will feature built over the ocean, PADI-licensed dive centre, emerging and established music acts from around fitness centre and daily yoga lessons. To book visit the world, and by day the underwater space will www.viceroyhotelsandresorts.com/maldives/ . be transformed into a marine biology lab for coral Dusit Thani Maldives is located in the Maldives’ rehabilitation and education and an art studio for first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve on Mudhdhoo kids. To visit see http://niyama.peraquum.com/ . Island in Baa Atoll, a 35 minute seaplane flight from Harriet Subramanian

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Five Maldives travel tips from Holidaysplease.co.uk an online travel agent that specialises in four and five-star holidays in the Indian Ocean Go all-inclusive if you can as eating al la carte can work out to be more expensive in the long run. Go for a resort with a house reef so that you don’t have to travel far to partake in water sports. Take a seaplane transfer if you can- this allows you to fully appreciate the beautiful islands before you. If on a budget, a Beach Villa is great- they are cheaper than Water Villas however you also get to enjoy your own private beach. Try to book a resort with an open air cinema where you can relax at night on the beach and watch films on a projector screen- the perfect way to end a great day! For details contact Holidaysplease (0844 463 2799, www.holidaysplease.co.uk).

Bush Life

t is most people’s dream to visit the African wilderness and experience a safari – for father and son duo Antony and Tyrone Mckeith, it is a dream come true. The Island Bush camp in Zambia’s Luangwa Valley, is where the men entertain guests, giving them memories that will last forever. Each night Hippos, who spent the day in the shrinking Luangwa River in front of camp, would emerge to feed (they eat grass and will walk several miles during a night to feed) and would walk right through camp, sometimes stopping to pick up the fallen fruit of the Sausage tree- which only they find palatable; before returning in the early hours to splash and play. The noise is overwhelming as the resident bulls count in their family with a cacophony of honks and grunts. To the familiar ear these sounds are instantly recognisable, but it is easy to mistake a growling Hippo for a Lion – and many a morning is spent reassuring guests that there were no lions near their sleeping quarters. To the visiting city dweller, every noise is strange, the coughing noise -almost like wood being sawn; was actually the resident male Leopard staking his claim to the territory where camp had been built. And the baleful hooting sound was Hyenas calling one another to stay in contact as they spread out to forage- their call drifts though the still night ghost like, in contrast to the cackling laughter they make when they are excited or scared. At Tyrone’s camp on the vast Busanga plains, guest’s are at one with nature – and maybe shocked 50

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to see the grim side of the life cycle. Lechwe antelope run past daily, and when they sound their alarm, it is clear a lion is on their tail. Although the excitement of the safari is so close, that one could reach out and touch – an inspection of the dirt around the tents is a footprint analysts dream - Tyrone ensures that guests are safely enclosed in the camp, and have access to those little extra luxuries one would expect from a safari trip. Tony McKeith LIVINGSTONE’S WORLD OF TRAVEL – THE HOME OF QUALITY HOLIDAYS INNOVATIVE TRAVEL & CREATIVE TOURS Livingstone’s World of Travel is where discerning travellers come for hassle free holidays and where quality travel arrangements are the norm. A small company that combines old fashioned values of customer care with the benefits of modern technology”. From Holidays to Tours everything can be found at Livingstone’s World of Travel. No trawling the internet for hours and accepting compromises, its one telephone call to 0844 888 8383. Beach holidays - Independent Travel Tours - Escorted Tours Round-the-World packages - Sea & River Cruises - City Breaks Worldwide Rail Tours - Wildlife Safaris - Activity Holidays Sport related Tours & Holidays - Weddings & Honeymoons Stag & Hen parties Livingstone’s World of Travel, T Wing, Crowthorne Enterprise Centre Old Wokingham Road, Crowthorne, Berkshire RG45 6AW Telephone: 0844 888 8383 Facsimile: 0134 478 0008 Email: travelforyou@btconnect.com

www.lwotravel.com

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Sally’s Smalltalk Why do I go on holiday?

ith the holiday season nearly upon us I contemplate what this actually means for our family, or rather me. Note the use of “holiday season” rather than “summer season.” I won’t go on about the weather, but seriously? My first dilemma is the actual booking of the holiday. I spend hours and hours of my life pouring over website over website, country after country, bombarded with this deal or that deal. It all becomes too much and I flick off the computer - the very fact our family ever goes on holiday is quite miraculous. The prospect of packing up and going away on holiday for even a couple of days requires an inordinate amount of preparation and planning. I insist on embarking on a ritual of getting all the washing up to date, all outstanding ironing has been done and either put away or packed and the entire house has to be cleaned from top to bottom. Pets need to be taken care of and perhaps temporarily re-homed. Offers are not as forthcoming as one might hope, however we do have some 52

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superb friends who are equally as crazy as us who always come up trumps to look after the beagles and we are hugely appreciative. You know who you are! Packing is always stressful. I really should have been given the ability to predict the weather or better still fix the weather system. I then wouldn’t feel the need to pack the entire contents of my wardrobe in anticipation of experiencing every season within the space of a week, only to come home having worn no more than 3 items. Of course on returning home I feel the urge to wash EVERYTHING even if I haven’t worn it, as it has that “been on holiday” smell. The children are of an age now when they insist on packing ng their own cases. Helpful? When hen I arrive to find our son has filled ed his case with cars and Nintendo ndo o games, 2 pairs of shorts and da pair of goggles, no not really! ly! Whilst on holiday it is the law to consume my own body weight in carbohydrates, fried food, local specialities and vast quantities of alcohol resulting in the net gain of no less than half a stone. Sluggish feeling and

disgustingly bloated I continue my outrageous consumption... because I am on holiday! Whilst on holiday, my money, in whatever currency, no matter what, has no value and I spend it like I am printing the stuff. As I peruse the shops, things I might never consider buying at home as I don’t have the money or are too expensive, all of a sudden seem such a bargain! So home I come feeling tired, irritable, stressed, bloated, uncomfortable, skint and quite honestly in need of a holiday!! Perhaps you can help me. P Why go on holiday? Now W Wh y do oIg will excuse me I must iff you o w illl excu cu use m dash, plane catch. dash h, I have v ap la ane to catc

If you would like to share re your idea ideas deaas w with ith ill pass ss on Sally, please contact us and we will all comments: office@AlongTheThemes.co.uk

Horoscopes

NAVIGATE YOUR WAY THROUGH THE COSMIC TIDES OF 2012 Would you like to know how you can tune into your personal power and be the very best version of yourself? I can help motivate you to discover your purpose and achieve personal transformation, so that you can create your vision and manifest your goals in life. I am also a trained life coach and a practitioner of Bach flower essence therapy and I offer a full motivational and transformational coaching programme. Your unique personal birth map can help you to plan your year ahead by tuning into positive and productive planetary cycles. You can also gain the clarity and insight needed for optimal abundance and success. Overcome your fears and anxieties and replace them with assertiveness and self-confidence. I work with clients all over the world and my consultations are mostly available by telephone or Skype. Face-to-face sessions may be offered depending on distance, please contact me for more information. Gift vouchers are also available.

Christine Chalklin

Inspirational Astrologer, Life Coach and Business Consultant, www.RestyleYourLife.co.uk Christine@RestyleYourLife.co.uk

Telephone: 07813 483549

Aries

Gemini May 22 - June 22

The exciting transit of Venus takes place in your sign and could bring love and romance knocking at your door. Enthusiastic Jupiter moves in for a whole years stay on the 12th. This is your chance to push forward and reach your goals as confidence is at an all time high. July: You are blessed with mighty Jupiter in your sign for the next year. What needs expanding in your life and where could you increase and broaden your knowledge? The new moon on the 19th brings finances into focus, probably in a beneficial way as Venus is also in your sign.

Cancer June 23 - July 23

June is a month of introspection for Cancerians. Both Jupiter and Venus highlight the need for close examination about how you feel in all areas of your life. Visionary Neptune in Pisces is asking you to broaden your horizons, and there could be an exciting travel opportunity. July: The sun is in your sign until the 21st and with your personal new moon on the 19th this can be a most successful month for self assertion and for reaching your goals. Let domestic matters follow their own course and pay extremely careful attention to professional opportunities

Leo

March 21 - April 20

July 24 - August 23

Jupiter, planet of expansion, moves into a pivotal point in your chart. Education, learning and communication are high on your agenda now and during the 12 months ahead. This is the time to review how you come across to others, and make exciting plans to broaden your horizons. July: Fiery Mars, your ruling planet, moves into balanced Libra on the 4th, illuminating the relationship sector of your chart. There may be some unexpected developments, particularly around the 19th and you may have to be very clear and open about your intentions.

June is a very sociable month for Leos, as expansive Jupiter shines on all areas of friendship and group activities. Although Jupiter has now left your career angle, progress made earlier will continue to expand during this half of the year as work projects continue to flourish. July: With communicative Mercury in your sign and assertive Mars in a pivotal point in your chart, you have the potential to reach all your goals this month. Be aware that Mercury does go into retrograde motion on the 15th, so do try to have any important matters wrapped up by then.

Taurus

Virgo

April 21 - May 21

August 24 - September 23

Mighty Jupiter leaves your sign on the 11th, after a stay of a whole year. As Jupiter now moves into Gemini, the sign of learning and communication, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll feel the need to put what you have learned into practice. Finances are also highlighted and money worries could start to ease. July: Energetic Mars moves into an exciting area your chart on the 4th. An excellent time for new relationships to begin, or to revisit creative endeavours that bring you joy and satisfaction. Social connections are favoured and communications improve after the new moon on the 19th.

Abundant Jupiter reaches the highest point in your chart on the 12th and this encourages the start of an extremely creative and rewarding cycle. You are able to treat all minor inconveniences with a positive attitude and youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll find that this helps you to achieve ultimate success. July: Your ruler, communicative Mercury, goes into retrograde motion in the 15th. Better to have all your lose ends tied up before to ensure there are no misunderstandings. Mars changes sign on the 4th and brings your finances into the spotlight. How could you benefit from a creative idea?

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Libra

September 24 - October 23

Mighty Jupiter shifts to the adventurous sector of your chart making travel and broadening your horizons important themes for you. Fiery and assertive Mars provides you with extra motivation, power and energy to move forward with personal and business plans. July: Your ruling planet Venus, the goddess of love and beauty, spends all of July in the fast- paced and dual sign of Gemini. It is all change now, don’t rely on old certainties and, above all, don’t hang on to the past for your security. Build up new interests using your intuition and creativity. .

THE COSMOS

Scorpio

October 24 - November 22

Money and resources are in the spotlight for Scorpios this month and as benevolent Jupiter moves into Gemini on the 12th there could be some positive financial surprises coming your way. Optimism is high and you should also feel more deserving of any recognition that you receive. July: With both the money planets, Venus and Jupiter, in the financial sector of your chart this month has the potential for expanding your resources and positive material gain. Your ruler, transformational Pluto, is encouraging you to accept and value your talents and to go for what you want.

DURING JULY

The dangerously exact cosmic face-off between transformational Pluto and revolutionary Uranus began on the 24th June, and it’s now well underway. We’ll continue to see people all over the Globe renewing their fight for independence and freedom by pulling away from restrictive and corrupt regimes. Assertive Mars moves into balance and justice obsessed Libra on the 4th, bringing a universal need for a fairer society. A difficult and challenging aspect around the 18th could see sparks flying as people fight for their rights. The new moon in Cancer on the 19th will hopefully bring us all a renewed sense of caring for family and connecting to community life. . NAVIGATE LIFE WITH KNOWLEDGE AND COSMIC AWARENESS

Sagittarius

Aquarius

Relationships are highlighted in June as Jupiter, your ruling planet, changes signs on the 12th. Take advantage of this positive move to learn as much as possible and to go after what you want. A personal relationship is reaching new depths of intimacy as your overall approach changes. July: Your ruling planet, the mighty Jupiter, is now in your opposite sign of Gemini until June 2013. Challenge, optimism and growth are all high on the agenda for you. Mars stirs up the social sector of your chart this month; you’re ready to enter a fresh and positive phase of existence.

The pace of your life speeds up this month as Jupiter moves into Gemini on the 12th. Love, happiness and joy are top of your agenda as your circle of friends expands. Creative projects could also bring financial reward and the new moon on the 19th presents an opportunity. July: Love, romance and creativity are important themes for Aquarians during July. Abundant Jupiter and amorous Venus are both in pivotal positions in flirtatious and sociable Gemini. With your ruler, innovative Uranus in adventurous Aries, you may need to move out of your comfort zone.

November 23 - December 22

Capricorn December 23 - January 19

Work and everyday matters are in focus this month. Personal insight comes to a head on the 12th as Jupiter moves into Gemini. Increasingly, you’ll find the need to bring more creativity and less routine into everything that you do. The key to success is time alone for reflection. July: Hard working Saturn, your ruling planet, is still making waves at the most elevated sector of your chart. Your career, your ambition and your goals are all being challenged. Energetic Mars joins in bringing positive energy to finalise the details of a professional partnership.

DURING JUNE

We can look forward to an exciting month ahead; here on planet earth we celebrate the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee and in the heavens we’ll witness one of the rarest of celestial spectacles, the transit of Venus across the face of the Sun (Eye protection is essential if you are gazing upwards!) This occurs on June the 6th and will not happen again until 2117. This special alignment of the Sun, Venus and the Earth opens the door for higher wisdom, compassionate unconditional love and better communication on all levels. On June the 12th the mighty planet Jupiter moves into the sign of Gemini. Jupiter has not been in this sign since the year 2000 and he will remain there until June 2013. I expect to see a growth spurt in all forms of education and communication, and travel will also reach new heights

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January 20 - February 19

Pisces

February 20 - March 20

Your home and family are in the spotlight this month and domestic matters could include expansive home improvements. Assertive Mars in Virgo provides you with personal power and extra motivation, as you realise that you can take on anything that comes your way. July: Your home and family life is stirred up this month as both expansive Jupiter and romantic Venus dominate this pivotal area of your chart. Domestic strains are apparent, but could very well result in beneficial changes. You need to be open about your intentions and your needs

I’m not unreasonable ...am I?

Gavin Henshaw is the Head of the Family Department at Curzon Green Solicitors. In this article he looks at the issue of divorce and specifically the ground of Unreasonable Behaviour. Whilst recently spending my lunchtime idly looking on the internet for inspiration, I came across the following story: “In April 2009, a German woman divorced her husband because she was “fed up” with him cleaning everything all the time. The wife got through 15 years of marriage putting up with the man’s penchant for doing household chores, tidying up and rearranging the furniture, but she ran out of patience when he knocked down and rebuilt a wall at their home when it got dirty.” On reading this, my initial reaction is that I know a number of people (my wife being one of them) who would be pleased that their spouse took such an active role when it came to the household chores and this behaviour would certainly not result in a divorce, although the opposite behaviour could do, and has, appeared in divorce petitions. However, I began to ask myself the question of what is actually considered unreasonable in the sense of obtaining a divorce? Under English law, in order

to obtain a divorce, you must show that the marriage has irretrievably broken down by satisfying the Court on one of the following five grounds: • Adultery • Unreasonable Behaviour • 2 years separation by consent • 2 years desertion • 5 years separation With the four other grounds, the criteria for satisfying these is evident from their description but with the ground of Unreasonable Behaviour, this is not the case. In respect of Unreasonable Behaviour, section 1(2)(b) of the Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 states that the Court will find the marriage has irretrievably broken down if it is shown that: “…the respondent has behaved in such a way that the petitioner cannot reasonably be expected to live with the respondent.” Therefore, under the strict interpretation of this definition, in order to satisfy the Court that the other party has been unreasonable, you would effectively have to have a Judge agree that the behaviour you have stated was unreasonable. Clearly, there will be certain types of behaviour, such as physical and emotional violence, that will immediately be seen as unreasonable but what happens when there is no real reason why the marriage has broken down other than the parties simply don’t get on and have grown apart? In these circumstances, the reasons put forward, although

significant to you, may not seem unreasonable to the Judge considering the case. Thankfully, the Courts tend to adopt a sensible approach to this issue. The Judges are aware that, if an individual feels so strongly about the behaviour of their partner that they issue divorce proceedings, then the marriage has clearly irretrievably broken down and it would be senseless to ignore this fact or stand in the way of the divorce proceeding. The Courts often take a relaxed attitude to the exact type of unreasonable behaviour which is especially useful when it comes to progressing the divorce. This approach allows you to discuss and agree with the other party the type of behaviour that will be stated in the petition. By doing this, you can ensure that the contents of the petition will be sufficient to satisfy the Judge but, more importantly, will not cause any offence to the other party that could then cause them to be difficult in resolving any subsequent issues, such as financial matters or arrangements concerning the children. Therefore, the simple rule when considering what constitutes unreasonable behaviour is that, if you consider it unreasonable and can justify this, then it will be seen as unreasonable and this can be included in the petition. Although, as a word of warning, just remember this fact in the future when your spouse asks you to do help them with the housework!

WHAT MAKES US STAND OUT AS A LAW FIRM? Our solicitors have worked on some of the largest and most complex claims in England over the past 15 years. Every family client will be offered a free initial meeting to discuss their matter with a solicitor. Family clients will have the option of resolving their matter through the use of the Collaborative Law Process. Each property transaction is overseen by a qualified solicitor who can be contacted directly if the client has any queries. We are willing to conduct general litigation cases on a ‘no win, no fee’ basis. Meetings for clients are arranged at a time and place that suits them.

This is what makes us not just different but better 114-116 Oxford Road, High Wycombe, Bucks, HP11 2DN Tel: 01494 451 355. www.curzongreen.co.uk

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Business

LinkedIn As promised this month is about LinkedIn and how you can use it in your business. I use it all the time in my work which is mainly B2B and that is the best area for it, although it can be used on B2C. Set up originally by the recruitment industry it is therefore one massive searchable database and a brilliant business tool for both promoting and for targeted prospecting. Many business people are on LinkedIn but throughout my networking I find very few who are using it well! Being there is in itself not doing much and is as bad as opening a shop but not advertising. You need to ensure that your profile is complete and active, because if someone does get your profile as an answer to their search will they be impressed? Think of it as you without you being there so unable to influence them. The next thing I implore you to do is to look at and use all the tabs as activity will attract people. • Join groups and be active in their discussions • Use the MORE button and answer questions, • Enter polls and look at and add to all others that you can. • Post an update regularly • Add to your profile. Once your profile is finalised and you are active it may surprise you as to who looks at your profile - don’t be shy - from the home page click and see who they are then send them a message.

When searching use the advanced button for more accurate answers and do not upgrade yet until you are using the standard version to its fullest Why should you use LinkedIn? Ten advantages to consider: 1. LinkedIn is used by 30% of all workers in the UK

2. Your LinkedIn profile appears in Google 3. It is public, so you can link it to your web site 4. It is a 2-way communication channel with your customers and prospects; 5. It has groups you can join to learn more and add to 6. You can manage the page yourself, update and add to as and when 7. You can schedule updates with programs such as Hootsuite 8. You can target so you get the answers you need 9. It increases you exposure as it is readily available on mobiles and tablets 10. It allows easy interaction with your audience LinkedIn gives you added exposure and the ability to target prospects and is free to set up and run and can be scheduled so it does not get unmanageable As I said, I use it daily if you want to know more I can signpost you to a local expert. Tony Silver

Employee Engagement? What’s it all about? Here we go again – another catch-phrase for “catch-phrase bingo”. People want to draw up a “back of a fag packet plan”; they talk about “stove-pipe solutions”; someone wants to “run a strawman up the flagpole”, and yet again it’s time to “think outside the box!” Is Employee Engagement just another catch-phrase? Or does it matter to us, either as employers or as employees? Good question. Back in the autumn of 2008, the then Secretary of State, Lord Mandelson, commissioned a review to take an in-depth look at employee engagement and to report on its potential benefits for companies, organisations and individual employees. In July 2009 the MacLeod Review report (all 157 pages of it) was published. 56

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The introduction to the report states “we have seen many examples of companies and organisations where performance and profitability have been transformed by employee engagement; we have met many employees who are only too keen to explain how their working lives have been transformed; and we have read many studies which show a clear correlation between engagement and performance – and most importantly between improving engagement and improving performance.” Definitions of Employee Engagement vary - some examples are “a positive attitude held by the employee towards the organisation and its values”, “passion for work” and “the individual’s involvement and satisfaction with as well

as enthusiasm for work“. I have seen a myriad of definitions, and have only found one so far that introduces the crucial element of customers. It is “how each individual employee connects with your company and how each individual employee connects with your customers“. So what does it mean from an employer’s perspective? Studies show that companies in which 60% or more of the workforce are engaged have average five-year total returns to shareholders that are three times the returns of companies with 40% of the workforce engaged. There is strong evidence of a correlation between levels of Employee Engagement and company results. “Organisations with high levels of engagement

(65% or greater) continue to outperform the total stock market index and posted total shareholder returns 22% higher than average in 2010. On the other hand, companies with low engagement (45% or less) had a total shareholder return that was 28% lower than the average”. To get back to the catch-phrase bingo – it’s a nobrainer for the employer.

Good Employee Engagement means that employees believe they can positively impact the quality of their organisation’s products, positively affect customer service, and believe they can positively impact costs in their job or unit. Maybe we should see it as Employee Empowerment as well as Engagement. Improving Employee Engagement; isn’t

rocket science, but does take commitment, honesty, openness and a willingness to change. The MacLeod Report states “the major task ahead …. is to raise the profile of the issue with leaders in all sectors of the economy”. I say we should do more than that – raise the profile of the issue with everybody! Phil Walker

Changes to child benefit

s you may be aware from the press HMRC are gradually withdrawing child benefit for those households where a person earns over £50,000 per annum. Anyone earning over £60,000 will lose all of the child benefit. These figures are the “adjusted net income” not just the annual salary. This means that gift aid payments and personal pension payments are taken into account when calculating the charge so it may be worth considering increasing either of these payments to reduce your adjusted net income in the year. The child benefit will still be paid but the higher earner will then have a “high income child benefit charge” added to their tax liability. So in effect the person who claims the benefit (usually the mother) will receive the benefit and then the partner will have to pay it back via his tax. As you can imagine this potentially could cause various problems! However, it is up to the person who claims the

benefit to decide whether to continue to claim the benefit or not – an election can be made to not receive the benefit although it is worth pointing out that the election can be revoked at any time, and not necessarily with the partner’s knowledge. The onus is on the person who is liable to pay the charge to notify HMRC. Failure to do so will result in a penalty being charged. It is expected that the tax charge will be coded out in arrears for PAYE or collected through the self assessment system for those who prepare Tax Returns. As this is effective from 7 January 2013, it will be essential for everyone affected to keep records of child benefit received during the period 7 January 2013 to 5 April 2013 and annually thereafter. If you would like any further information on child benefits and how the changes may affect you, please do not hesitate to contact me. Lesley Miller - Tax Manager

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Opening the lines to communication

Psychologist Sidney Jourard estimated that 85% of all problems at work are interpersonal. Many relationships in the office are effective and easy – they just work. But for the ones that don’t this can often prove challenging and requires effort and energy to redress the situation. How, when and why you communicate to and with your team is an important aspect to review and manage regardless of the size of your organisation. Sharpstone Skinner, an expert leadership and team development consultancy based in London, has recently launched a series of new guides which are free to download from www.sharpstoneskinner. co.uk . The most recent guide, Communicating with Your Team, is about how you as the team’s leader can plan regular and occasional communication which builds knowledge and relationships across the team. The guide covers areas such as, meetings, tailoring communication, what is appropriate to tell the team and what should be reserved for one-to-ones, as well as how to maintain equal but individual communication to all team members. Helena Sharpstone at Sharpstone Skinner points out that, “deciding how you want to communicate with your team 58

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is crucial to any organisation large or small.” She goes on to add, “knowing how to interact formally and informally with a group can often prove difficult.” The guide, Communicating with Your Team, sets out some clear parameters for developing a steady flow of interaction and conversation with work colleagues. These include: • To meet or not to meet? Remember to keep remote meetings short and energetic and use them in addition to rather than instead of face to face meetings. There can be no real substitute for “face mail”. For some team communication, avoid technology and go for the

warm body experience. • It doesn’t have to be all about updates. Rather than just update- which are useful but maintain the status quo, balance these with ways of developing the team. • Balance strategic and operational communication. Teams need to hear about and participate in both. Much of your communication with the team will be operational. It may be that if you meet once a month, two or three of those meetings each year are where you look more strategically at how the team is doing. It is developing and stretching for the team and it makes your communication much richer overall. There are many reasons why adopting a more flexible approach to communication will prove valuable to your business. By refining how and when you speak to your team other areas of your business will benefit along with individual performance. Boosting morale through open communication will also help to retain highly skilled employees in turbulent times Harriet Subramanian

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Motoring

NEW GENERATION RINGS THE CHANGES

The latest incarnation of mid-size SUV combines subtle styling enhancements with significant efficiency gains and equipment upgrades. The Audi Q5 is about to climb to a new peak on the efficiency scale as new generation versions of the popular mid-size SUV are readied for their October debut on UK roads. Combining subtle styling revisions and equipment enhancements with power increases and economy gains of up to 15 per cent, the remodelled range will be available to order from late May priced from circa ÂŁ33,400 OTR. The updated Q5 will arrive in the UK with four engine options: two TDI and two TFSI. All of these engines combine direct fuel injection with forced induction, and a start-stop system is standard in all versions. Although most of the engines have enhanced performance, their fuel economy has been improved by up to 15 per cent. The 2.0 TDI with 177PS and 380 Nm of torque (with S tronic and quattro drive) is the entry point to the diesel range, and delivers 47.1mpg on the combined cycle. The 3.0 TDI delivers 245PS and 580 Nm of torque. This acclaimed V6 diesel has been completely redesigned and now combines the potential for up to 44.1mpg according to the combined cycle test (previously 37.6mpg) with a torque increase of 80Nm over its predecessor for even more forceful acceleration. Equipped as standard with the sevenspeed S tronic twin-clutch transmission, it

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powers the Q5 from zero to 62mph in 6 6.5 5 sseconds on the way to a top speed of 140mph. The petrol engine line-up also features state-of-theart technology. Taking its lead from the advanced new 1.8-litre TFSI unit which already powers the latest A4 and A5 ranges, and employing the same innovations, the new 2.0-litre, four-cylinder engine is a particular highlight. The control system for its valves and their stroke, its innovative thermal management, its fuel injection system, its turbocharger and the integration of the exhaust manifold in its cylinder head are all new developments. The much admired styling of the Q5, with its coupelike roof line and wrap-around tailgate, has been subtly refreshed in this latest generation model. The design of the headlights has been modified, and the xenon units that are standard in S line versions and optional for all others are now framed by new-look LED daytime running lights that form a continuous band surrounding more of the lens. Adaptive lights with dynamic cornering lights and static turning lights are available as an option.

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LONDON FUNERAL EXHIBITION COMING TO A TOWN NEAR YOU 7/8 JULY BUCKINGHAMSHIRE

‘If You Go Down In The Woods Today’ is a free event offering fun for all the family within the beautiful surroundings of Chiltern Woodland Burial Park. All are welcome to come and enjoy the varied exhibits and attractions throughout the weekend of 7–8 July, as part of the London Funeral Exhibition 2012. You could have a ride around the woodland in a horse and carriage, enjoying tranquil views of the summer flowers, or take part in the Bear Hunt in the Woods and see if you can find any of the teddies hiding amongst the trees! For those who like a bit of magic and mystery there will be a magician performing tricks and a range of storytelling workshops to inspire your imagination, or if you just fancy a bit of light entertainment there will be face painting, a traditional puppet show and live music to amuse children and adults alike. There will be something for those with an interest in history too; in Beyond 2000BC – A Prehistoric Experience you can try your hand at the skills of our prehistoric ancestors such as flint-knapping, while learning about these ancient techniques from an experienced craftsman. Alternatively, explore the literary tradition of poetry writing with the London’s Poetry Library exhibit. Parking is free, toilet facilities are available and there will be a range of refreshments on offer – including ice cream, cakes and a barbecue – enabling you to take your time and have a relaxing and enjoyable day. ‘If You Go Down In The Woods Today’ forms part of the London Funeral Exhibition 2012, an event with a difference showcasing the wide variety of funeral options available. There will be a range of beautiful 62

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hand-made coffins and caskets, as well as examples of some quirky funeral options such as a motorcycle hearse, and an interactive ‘Things To Do Before I Die’ exhibit. Other attractions include woodcarvers demonstrating their craft, hand-made yurts and a dove release in memory of those we have lost. There will also be regular screenings of the award-winning short film Dying for a Laugh, in which comedians such as Ricky Tomlinson, Jenny Eclair and Ardal O’Hanlon share their interesting and often humorous insights into the little-discussed subject of death. More and more people are starting to think about making their own funeral plans in advance, and this is a perfect opportunity to learn about the wide variety of products available and discuss any questions you may have with industry professionals, while enjoying a fun-filled family day out in the peaceful setting of Chiltern Woodland Burial Park Free parking and toilet facilities on site. For further information contact: T: 01494 872158 or E: chilternenquiries@woodlandburialparks.co.uk.

How do I raise the subject of our ﬁnal wishes?

Will Mike know I’d like a woodland burial?

IT’S GOOD TO TALK. Thinking ahead and making plans for your ﬁnal goodbye will not make the event happen any sooner. But it will certainly make sure that your friends and family are not left in the dark when the day eventually comes.

The parks and woodland can be used for full burials or ashes burials as well as ash scattering and a service of your choice can be held in our beautiful ceremonial buildings – it’s all included in the price.

What are my choices?

But aren’t woodland burials more expensive?

There are still surprisingly few options available when saying goodbye to your loved one and over 70% of the UK population chose to do so at a crematorium. Some may follow that with a “wake” or celebration of life. However, a growing number are seeking out a different and sometimes more personal way to say goodbye.

It’s a commonly held misconception that woodland burials are a more expensive option. In some instances they may be, but GreenAcres have set their prices to compare favourably with a traditional burial.

What is a woodland or natural burial? Woodland burials are still relatively new to the UK but are growing rapidly. With only 5 cemeteries calling themselves “woodland” or “natural” in 1999, there are now over 260. Woodland or natural burial sites range from a piece of land designated as a burial area with few facilities and possibly some eco-friendly “rules” such as only allowing bio-degradable cofﬁns, no embalming of the body and so on. Right through to established woodland with facilities and long term plans to secure the future of the environment.

Why is GreenAcres so special? GreenAcres Woodland Burials offer a totally personal funeral or burial service in a well-managed established woodland environment, complete with beautiful ceremonial buildings and a wide range of facilities to accommodate friends and families. Uniquely all the parks are fully staffed, 365 days a year.

So who are GreenAcres Woodland Burials? GreenAcres Woodland Burials are privately run cemeteries based in over 150 acres of beautiful English woodland throughout the UK. Formerly Woodland Burial Parks Group they have been carrying out the wishes of families for over 12 years and enjoy an excellent relationship with local funeral directors to ensure the best possible services for families.

Anything else? Yes – with GreenAcres, you can actually choose the very place you want to be buried. You can also pay for your burial plot in advance as many do already – taking that ﬁnancial burden from your family when the time comes. To make it even easier you can pay in instalments spread over 12 to 60 months. The only additional charge is an admin fee to set up and run the instalments and you don’t pay interest. That way you can also inﬂation proof your burial too. So why not visit for a walk through the woodland and then pop in to talk about making those all-important plans. The award-winning customer service staff are always happy to walk you round the park and answer any questions you may have. Remember however unusual you think your questions may be we have often answered them before.

GreenAcres Woodland Burials Impeccable service in a natural environment for a completely personal funeral.

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email: enquiries@woodlandburialparks.co.uk www.woodlandburialparks.co.uk

Useful Numbers MARLOW- CLUBS Archaeology in Marlow ........................................... 472126 Marlow Archaeological Society .............................. 523896 Bowls ..................................................................... 485274 Boxing ......................................................... 01494 532826 Crafts ........................................................ 473872/473539 Football .................................................................. 483970 Hockey ................................................................... 521830 Plants (Orchids) .................................................... 486640 Petanque ............................................................... 521783 Photography ............................................. 482164/483030 Rugby ....................................................... 483911/477054 Running ................................................................. 474885 Four Seasons Club ................................................ 474095 Tennis ................................................................... 483638 New Marlow Tennis Academy .............................. 488438 Rifle & Pistol Club ...................................... 01494 676676 Longridge ............................................................. 486595 Marlow & District Wine Society ........................... 630341 Marlow Society/History ........................................ 476140 Rotary Club................................................. 01494 530952 LETS .......................................................... 01494 523978 U3A ......................................................... 485220/488865 Operatic Society .................................................. 475973 Community Choir .................................... 602581/661182 Railway Society ................................................... 486433 Choral Society ..................................................... 472998 Marlow Orators ........................................ 07738 540287 MARLOW - COUNCIL Bus Services ............................................. 01494 441818 Liston Hall ........................................................... 472558 Marlow Information centre ..................... 483597/481717 Library ...................................................... 0845 2303232 Town Council .......................................... 484024/481146 Neighbourhood Watch ............................. 020 77723348 Police ....................................................... 0845 8505505 Trains ........................................................ 0845 7000125 Wycombe Council .................................... 01494 461000 MARLOW - HOSPITALS Marlow Cottage .................................................. 482292 NHS Direct ................................................. 0800 595000 Wycombe ................................................. 01494 526161 MARLOW - DENTISTS Marlow Dental Centre ........................................ 486096 La Perla Clinic ..................................................... 488499 St John Ambulance .................................. 01494 474748 BOURNE END Library ................................................................ 524814 Community Centre ............................................ 527502

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Stockists from Pages 34-36 & 38 Swish t: 476 467 w: www.swishboutique.co.uk, a: 5 Liston Court, Marlow No25 of Bourne End t: 528 877 w: www.no25ofbourneend.co.uk a: 25-27 The Parade, Bourne End

Congratulations

to the winners of the following book competition held in the April/May 2012 issue. ‘A Lesser God’ by Stephen Solomons: Liz Lenney, Stephanie Herbett, John Tyler

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set your heart racing all summer

2012 Fixture List Month Date Day May

28th Monday

June

9th

Time

Month Date Day

Evening

July

Saturday Evening

Time

1st

Sunday

Afternoon oon

2nd

Monday

Evening g

11th Monday

Evening

9th

Monday

Evening

18th Monday

Evening

16th Monday

Evening

25th Monday

Evening

30th Saturdayy Afternoon Aftern Af August

23rd Monday

Evening

20th Monday

Evening

25th Saturday Evening October 8th

FREE Coach g Parkin

Monday

Afternoon

15th Monday

Afternoon

22nd Monday

Afternoon

Fantastic race meetings, including: 8 Band nights, 6 Food and drink festivals and 2 Family Fun days

Accom pa Raceg nied under oers 18 e FREE e njoy ntry

Racegoers Package You are guaranteed a great view of the racing from the Grandstand plus you have access to the Parade Ring, Pre-Parade Ring, Winners Enclosure, Paddock Lawn and Silver Ring Enclosure.

The £29.00 per person package includes: udes: • Grandstand Enclosure ticket • £10.00 Totepool betting booster voucher booklet oklet • £10.00 drink voucher • Racecard listing the day’s runners and riders.

tina Call Chris for group s discount 8 445 01753 49

Carvery Package Ca Enjoy a delicious carvery from the comfort of your own table in our fantastic course-viewing Castle Restaurant. For reservations please call 01753 498 581

The Carvery operates on 1st July.

Fantastic

Heart racin g fu for everyo n ne

The package includes:

racing! Quick k Racing Code Co

• 2 course carvery menu • Club Enclosure ticket • Car parking pass (1:2) • Racecard Children under 8, free with two full s. paying adults. See website for details.

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Racegoers River ve P Package

The package includes:

(Includes a Return River Taxi)

• Return river taxi trip from Windsor town

With the Club Enclosure in prime position next to the winning post, excitement is guaranteed! In addition to the Club Enclosure, you will have access to the Grandstand, Paddock Lawn, Pre-Parade Ring, Parade Ring, Winners Enclosure and Silver Ring Enclosure. Buy your Racegoers River Package online at www.windsor-racecourse.co.uk

• Club Enclosure ticket • £10.00 Totepool betting booster voucher booklet let • £10.00 drink voucher

Raceg o River P ers ackage

£38.00

per pe rson

• Racecard listing the day’s runners and riders s The Racegoers River Package includes a return rive taxi trip and is very easy to use as it includes all you need for a wonderful racing experience, it even drops you off at the Racecourse about 50m from the main entrance! A river taxi service operates for all race meetings from Barry Avenue Promenade, opposite Browns restaurant, in Windsor Town centre. This is just a short walk from the Windsor train stations. The river trip takes approximately 10 minutes and there is a full bar facility on board. Boats departing for Royal Windsor Racecourse start running 2 hours before the first race up until the beginning of the second race. The return trips to Windsor Promenade start at the beginning of the penultimate race and finish approximately 45 mins after the last race and 15 mins after the final song on band nights.

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Royal Windsor Racecourse Tel: 01753 498 400