Vivid Mag March/April 2015 by Living Along theThames

March - April 2015

www.VividTitles.co.uk

LIFESTYLE IN BRILLIANT COLOUR!

Home & Garden Feature

Rebecca Ferguson SINGS BILLIE HOLLIDAY

MARLOW | HENLEY | MAIDENHEAD | COOKHAM | BOURNE END

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 1

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Art Class Starts Soon

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS WILL LOVE THIS COURSE! NEW COU RSE

! We are now taking enquiries fo r our next great Art Class. This fun course is a great way to mee t new friends an d develop new skills. Please call now for a chat. Best wishe s, Jo GREAT NEWS for all our readers looking for something fun to do over the next few months! Our current class is full but we are now taking enquiries for our next part-time Art Class, which starts soon. The classes are held once a week for three hours.

ABSOLUTE BEGINNERS TO IMPROVERS - JUST LIKE YOU!

STILL LIFE TO LANDSCAPES

The course is designed to be fun for absolute beginners who have never picked up a brush before through to Improvers.

STEP-BY-STEP GUIDANCE

We adapt to each student’s needs and give them all the guidance and help they need to develop their artistic skills. The curriculum is fun, comprehensive and interesting. Over the

NEWCLASS ART

course we will explore four different media; pencil drawing & sketching, oil pastel painting and techniques, painting and blending with water colours and acrylics. Step by step tuition in the basic techniques and secrets needed to create beautiful pieces of art. By the end of the course, students have created a minimum of 8 pieces of their very own original art they can enjoy forever, from simple still life and flower studies to beautiful countryside landscape scenes.

YOUNG AT HEART

This course is a brilliant way to learn new skills you will be able to enjoy forever. It is also a great way of meeting new friends and

to have a fun experience you will always remember and cherish! It is open to adults of all ages.

MEET NEW FRIENDS, LEARN NEW SKILLS

This part time course is over 3 months, so will give you plenty of time to master your new hobby.

LIMITED PLACES

To maintain a high standard to our classes and the tuition you will receive, classes are kept to small numbers – so places available are limited! We recommend that if you are interested you call us now for details. For information on dates, course fees and bookings, CALL NOW on

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March

- April

2015

www. VividTi tles.c

This month’s Front Cover: Rebecca Ferguson

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LIFESTYLE IN BRILLIANT COLOUR! A Living Along The Thames Publication

Serena Edwards Editor ADVERTISING: 01628 627 488 adverts@VivdMag.co.uk

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CONTACT US: Living Along the Thames Magazines 1 Bell Street, Maidenhead, Berkshire, SL6 1BU Tel: 01628 627 488 Contact@VividMag.co.uk

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CONTRIBUTORS: Christine Chalkin, Kasia Cole, David Rhys Price, Claire Fryer, Jacky & Mark Bloomfield, Tom Hyland, Claire Wood, Michael Darren, Heather Harrison, Cassie Everett, Sloan Sheridan-Williams ACCOUNTS: Holly Hooper 07771 883 442 Holly@hjaccounting.co.uk Keep up to date at: WWW.VIVIDTITLES.CO.UK subscriptions: 01628 627488 or directly on-line - www.VividTitles.co.uk/magazine/ FOLLOW US: @AlongTheThames LIKE US: facebook.com/LivingAlongTheThames

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A warm welcome to the March/April 2015 edition. With Spring on its way we are featuring homes and gardens as hopefully the weather gets just a bit warmer and we can all start to throw the doors and windows open after winter and let some fresh air into the house. You will notice that we have some new features in this editionWine, Education, Fitness, Wellness, Coaching and Homes. So a warm welcome to all our new writers, who along with our current writers are featured on our website where you can find out more information about them and their businesses. As always we have a magazine filled with all sorts of editorial from fashion and beauty to travel as well as two local upcoming events - The Cookham Festival from 2nd to 17th May and the Henley Arts trail over the bank holiday weekend in May. We also have a fabulous recipe from Chris Wheeler, head chef, at Stoke Park English raspberry souffle with cheesecake ice-cream & raspberry sauce. We were lucky to catch up with Rebecca Ferguson as she releases her third album, you can read the interview on page 58. We have two competitions in this edition: A meal for two from the tasting menu including wine from Marlow’s Sindhu restaurant and ten pairs of tickets to the Newbury Garden and all about Dogs show. Please visit www. VividTitles.co.uk/Competitions for your chance to win. As always we ask that you if you do respond to any of our Advertisers then please let them know it was in response to our magazine as they welcome the feedback and support as they are a vital part of our local towns and communities.

PEFC Certified This product is from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources PEFC/16-33-254

www.pefc.org

Our next edition will be May/June with a deadline of 3rd April, so please contact us if you are interested in showcasing your business to our local readership Wishing you all a Happy Mother’s Day and a Happy Easter Until then, happy reading……………… Your Local Luxury Lifestyle Magazine, for the locals, owned by a local

Produced by Vivid/Living Along The Thames Magazines. All Rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the prior written permission of the Publisher and is protected by copyright. The views expressed in Living Along the Thames magazine are not necessarily the views of the editor/publisher. Whilst every effort has been made to ensure quality and content, the publisher cannot be held responsible for errors in articles, advertisements and photographs.

4 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Inside 8. 10 things to consider when choosing a tutor. 21. Create the relaxed country look 22. Home Improvements 26. Roses are red... 29. Celebrity Interview: Bear Grylls 30. Henley Arts Trail 2nd - 4th May

51. Wine - Hot to Chill 52. Recipe from Chris Wheeler: Stoke Park: English Raspberry souffle with cheesecake ice-cream & raspberry sauce 56. Travel - Hidden Gem: Austria 60. A good read 61. Stars 68. Out & About 69. Improving fertility

32. Cookham Festival 2nd - 17th May

70. Useful Numbers

36. Fashion

Competitions 53. Win a tasting meal for two at Sindhu Restaurant in Marlow

38. Spring beauty 42. 15 exercise Tips 44. How to deal with a lazy husband 48. 5 minutes with Mark Addy

64. Win 10 pairs of tickets to the Newbury Garden and All About Dogs show January - February 2015

March - April 2015

www.VividTitles.co.uk

LIFESTYLE IN BRILLIANT COLOUR!

Home & Garden Feature

Rebecca Ferguson SINGS BILLIE HOLLIDAY

MARLOW | HENLEY | MAIDENHEAD | COOKHAM | BOURNE END

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 1

Vivid MAR.APRv2 2015.indd 1

Proud Sponsor of Vivid Magazine Creative Writing Prize at

LIFESTYLE IN BRILLIANT COLOUR!

Charlie Brooks TOURING UK IN 2015 IN ‘BEAUTIFUL THING’

HAPPY NEW YEAR MARLOW | HENLEY | MAIDENHEAD | COOKHAM | BOURNE END

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015 | VIVID 1

23/02/2015 16:07

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 5

Advertising Feature

Inspiring - Find out why ...

British Legion cheque presentation

Trip to Iceland It’s been a great start to 2015 for Godstowe Preparatory School. Outstanding results in the classroom and on the sports field, inspiring school trips, charitable achievements and much more have created a bustling Spring Term. Girls in the upper part of the school (7-13) consistently achieve unrivalled academic results, despite Godstowe being a non-selective school. More than 18 senior school scholarships were confirmed this term and the numbers are expected to rise. There were tears of joy, as Headmaster Mr David Gainer passed news on to girls of confirmed places to senior schools, which included Wycombe Abbey, Cheltenham Ladies’, Wellington and Queen Anne’s, to name a few. Meanwhile, outside the classroom, the sports teams have enjoyed numerous successes. Girls learn to play lacrosse in Years 7 and 8, playing in matches throughout the Autumn and Spring Terms. Most recently the U12s and U13s were winners in a tournament at Heathfield School. The Year 5 and 6 Godstowe Cross Country team were crowned Buckinghamshire Schools Cross Country Champions, after defeating all of their usual rivals at Hughenden Park in February. For the first time, Godstowe entered teams at a National Schools Equestrian Association show jumping competition in January. Although they missed out on team placings, the girls achieved some outstanding individual results and are planning their next outing in March. Inspired by the impressive display of ceramic poppies at the Tower of London to mark the 100th anniversary of World War I, Godstowe’s Head of Art Mrs Nina Sloggett 6 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Geography trip to Cranedale

Cross Country masterminded the school’s own ceramic poppy display during the Autumn Term. More than 200 girls made their own ceramic poppies and a special Remembrance Day service was held around the display. Afterwards, the girls were able to take their poppy home and parents made voluntary donations to the Royal British Legion Poppy Appeal. More than £1,000 was raised for the cause and, in February, a cheque was presented to the charity. Throughout the year, pupils embark on various school trips, whether it is a weekend boarders’ trip to London or a week-long educational trip. As part of this term’s “Activities Day”, there were trips to Royal Festival Hall, the V & A Museum and a theatre trip to see The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. Meanwhile, some year groups stayed in for workshops – girls in Year 4, for example, were treated to an animal handling session by ZooLab. At the end of term, girls in Year 7 will jump on a coach and travel to Yorkshire for a Science and Geography field trip, which takes place every year. Following the success of last year’s inaugural trip to Iceland, a group of staff and girls will be jetting off there again during the Easter holidays for five days of jam-packed activities. At Godstowe, there’s never a dull moment. Come and find out for yourself by visiting us on our Open Day on Saturday 9th May, from 10am – 1pm. Alternatively, appointments to visit the school can be made at any time. Please contact the Registrar, Mrs Cathy Gainer on 01494 429006 or email registrar@godstowe.org for more information.

Godstowe Godstowe Godstowe

Not all schools are the same... Not all schools are the same... Not all schools are the same... NotFind all schools are the same... out for yourself Find out for yourself Find out for yourself Open Days Open Days Open Days 2015, 10am Saturdays, 9th May and 10th October Saturdays, 9th May and 10th October 2015, 10am -- 1pm 1pm

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NURSERY NURSERY 3-4 3-4 PRE-PREP PRE-PREP 4-7 4-7 PREP PREP 7-13 7-13 BOARDING BOARDING 7-13 7-13 BOYS BOYS 3-7 3-7 GIRLS GIRLS 3-13 3-13 NURSERY NURSERY 3-4 PRE-PREP 4-7 PREP 7-13 BOARDING 7-13 BOYS 3-7 GIRLS 3-13 NURSERY 3-4 3-4 PRE-PREP PRE-PREP 4-7 4-7 PREP PREP 7-13 7-13 BOARDING BOARDING 7-13 7-13 BOYS BOYS 3-7 3-7 GIRLS GIRLS 3-13 3-13 NURSERY 3-4 PRE-PREP 4-7 PREP 7-13 BOARDING 7-13 BOYS 3-7 GIRLS 3-13 Did you know that Godstowe has Did you know that Godstowe has Did you know that Godstowe has Did you know that Godstowe has Did you know that Godstowe has aa Did nursery too? “Little Godstowe” nursery too? “Little Godstowe” you know that Godstowe has aaa nursery too? “Little Godstowe” nursery too? “Little Godstowe” nursery too? “Little Godstowe” is a termly nursery for boys and is a termly nursery for boys and aaa nursery too? “Little Godstowe” is termly nursery for and is termly nursery for boys boys and is a aged termly for boys and girls 33 to 4. The offers girls aged tonursery 4. The nursery nursery offers is a termly nursery for boys and girls aged 3 to 4. The nursery offers girls aged 3 to 4. The nursery offers girls agedsessions 3 to 4. The nursery offers morning and full days. girls aged 3 to 4. The nursery offers morning sessions and full days. morning sessions and full days. morning morning sessions sessions and and full full days. days. morning sessions and full days. For more For more information information about about the the nursery, nursery, For For more more information information about about the the nursery, nursery, For more information about the nursery, school or our Open Days, please the school or our our Open Days, Days, please contact the For more information about thecontact nursery, school or Open please the school or our Open Days, please contact the school orCathy our Open Days, please contact contact the Registrar, Gainer, by telephoning 01494 Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 school or our Open Days, please contact the Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 429006 or emailing emailing registrar@godstowe.org 429006 or registrar@godstowe.org Registrar, Cathy Gainer, by telephoning 01494 429006 429006 or or emailing emailing registrar@godstowe.org registrar@godstowe.org 429006 or emailing registrar@godstowe.org 429006 or emailing registrar@godstowe.org

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10 Things to Consider When Choosing a Tutor for Your Child Recent figures suggest that almost 1 in 4 pupils in the UK have received private tuition at some point during their time at school - a boom perhaps reflecting parents’ growing concerns that they provide their children with crucial extra educational support.

5. Choosing a tutor for your child is a delicate and often daunting process. It is also entirely unregulated, with anyone able to advertise their services as a tutor. With such a plethora of options, what should parents consider when negotiating the tricky minefield of choosing the right tutor for their child? 1. Qualifications and experience No qualifications are required to become a private tutor. However, when recruiting tutors for our agency, I insist all tutors have a degree-level qualification. This firstly demonstrates academic capabilities and secondly, tutors with a degree in a particular subject can offer students an in -depth knowledge and insight. I also place great emphasis on teaching or educational-based qualifications, purely because I know those tutors will possess the pedagogical skills and techniques necessary to effectively transmit concepts and learning to their students as well as the experience of transmitting ideas and learning. 2. Security checks Shockingly, private tutors are not required to hold a DBS (Disclosure and Barring Services) certificate, detailing a person’s criminal record and identity. For the many self-employed tutors not working with an agency, this is because it is impossible to obtain a DBS working for yourself. It is also recommended that parents check the credentials of a tutor prior to the first session. 3. References Tuition is a business which 8 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

relies hugely on recommendations and word soon gets around of a good tutor operating in the area. However, do bear in mind that a tutor who has worked wonders with your friend’s child, might not click with yours. Terms and conditions Work out with a tutor in your preliminary arrangements, what their Terms and Conditions are. Enquire about areas like the cancellation policy and the payment policy - cash, cheque or BCAS? Payment straight after the lesson? Some tutors insist on block payments for lessons upfront - be careful of this. Personal skills When it comes down to it, the tutor will be working with your child and not you. Of course it is important that parents feel comfortable with a tutor, but some tutors often communicate better with students than adults. As well as forming a good rapport with students, a tutor’s personal skills and characteristics are hugely influential on a student’s level of progress. A tutor should be able to inspire, motivate and instil a passion for learning in the students they teach. Professionalism Good tutors will be a model of professionalism, demonstrating reliability, honesty and punctuality to their students. Dispense with the services of tutors who consistently cancel or turn up late to lessonsas well as showing a lack of professionalism it also becomes demoralising for their students. Local Knowledge Sometimes national agencies and tutors who are located hundreds of miles away, can be unaware as to how things work in the local area and in education. It’s important tutors have a good knowledge of local educational trends, keeping an ear to the ground on the fortunes of schools and changes at local educational authority levels. Feedback Tutors should provide regular and effective feedback to students and parents on the level of progress being made. Sometimes, a brief re-cap of the learning that occurred in the lesson is more

than adequate, but on a regular basis tutors should expand more on a pupil’s progress, the targets they have for the student and how they are going to help the student achieve these targets. 9. Cost Be wary. Many tutors advertise incredibly cheap rates - but this is often for a reason! Saving money on a cheaper tutor also may not provide the results you are seeking from the arrangement. Excellent, experienced and qualified tutors typically come at a premium price. However, be careful to avoid tutors charging the earth for their services - there’s only so much one person can achieve and inflated fees often mask a deflated skills -set. Some agencies charge a set-fee for tutors, whereas others advise, in conjunction with tutors, the fees to set. With average tuition prices between £20 and £35 an hour, increasing markedly the closer you get to London and the higher the level of qualification, it is a good idea to work out a rough budget and see what is available in that price range. Decide also if you will be willing to travel to a tutor’s home or whether you will be able to host a tutor at yours. Again, bear in mind a tutor may charge extra for travel costs to come to your home. If a tutor has an exceptional reputation but doesn’t travel to a student’s home, consider making the extra effort. On the other hand, many children feel more comfortable learning at home, in their own environment. 10. Consult with your child Involve your child with the process of tuition as they sometimes may feel they don’t require extra help. Whilst it is fundamental to canvass their views, ensure these opinions are backed up with good reports and attainment levels. Some children are quite sensitive to having tuition and link it with a failing on their part - it is crucial to show them the benefits of tuition and how many children, of all attainment levels, use tutors to help them achieve success! Get an idea, in conjunction with your child, of what things you are looking for in a tutor. Male or female? Young or experienced?

Firm or relaxed? If a tutor works with an agency, you can often mention these specifications- agencies will have a wider range of potential tutors and will be able to attempt to accommodate some of your requests. Be prepared to be flexible though - sometimes, an exceptional tutor might fall outside your ideal specifications. If your child is at any point unhappy or uncomfortable with a tutor, seek to cancel the arrangement immediately. The tutor may be disappointed, but your child’s learning is the most important thing and they won’t learn if they don’t feel secure. Another caution though! Be mindful of some children kicking up a fuss regardless of how well they got on with a tutor as they may not be enamoured with the idea being tutored! Tom Hyland

English Communication for: Business Social Activities School and University Entrance

Do you use English as a second language in business or socially and want to perform better? Do you need to “get up to speed” with your British colleagues and customers? Would you like the assistance of very experienced and expert coaches, for your VIP meetings, presentations, negotiations and leadership skills? Speak to us!

Peter has a background in NLP, coaching and education along with over 25 years experience working at Management level with top-level clients.

See it through their eyes… ...and discover why our children love school.

OPEN MORNINGS Saturday 9 May 2015 – 10am to 12pm Thursday 21 May 2015 – 9.15am to 11am

Individual appointments to view the School can be made at any time, please contact us on the number below.

ST PIRAN’S

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The Co-Educational Prep School in Maidenhead for children aged rising 3 to 11

Tel: 01628 594302 • Email: registrar@stpirans.co.uk

Julia is an award winning voice & performance coach with experience in regional sales & Board level leadership.

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info@tostig.co.uk 07708 364021 “I appreciate very much working with Peter and having him as my coach ‘in the background’ for preparing various meetings, presentations and statements, and for the continuous improvement of my English language skills with ‘on the job’ issues.” T.Blumtritt, Commercial Director, KWS, Germany “In three intensive weeks, Peter succeeded in leading me from an intermediate level of English to a suﬃciently advanced level to reach my goal - to be accepted onto a top-10 MBA program. No small feat! I strongly recommend Peter to anyone who wants to improve their English.” N.Hubin, MBA student, Belgium

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www.tostig.co.uk MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 9

Happy Easter April 3rd - 6th It can be hard to resist indulging yourself and others in the copious amounts of chocolate on the shelves at Easter time. But with the growing awareness of healthy eating in mind, we have some great alternatives that are just as fun, exciting and simply lovely for your little ones! Best selling Board Game ‘Destination London’ is celebrating its 10th Anniversary and a special edition is now available. The Board game sees players compete to race through the streets of London in their own mini cab. As the driver, players move through the game visiting famous destinations in the capital and collect fares. The aim of the game is to be the player who has earned the most money at the end of the shift. Fun, fast-paced and excitement this Easter for all the family. (RRP£24.99) - Available from WWW.DESTINATIONBOARDGAMES.COM Clementoni Cakes & Biscuits A fun and creative game to make and decorate cakes and biscuits, tasty treats include chicks in nests on cupcakes and Spring-themed cakes. The kit contains an illustrated recipe book, cake mix, a baking sheet, a whisk, lots of biscuits cutters, a spatula and spoon, a pastry syringe, food colouring, coloured sugar decorations and sugar paste. Available from TOYS R US AND ARGOS (RRP £19.99), Suitable for 8+ for both boys and girls Allow your little one to bounce like a bunny this Easter on board the Happy Hopperz horse! For children aged 12months +, Happy Hopperz are designed to encourage imaginative play, as well as build confidence, strengthen core muscles and improve coordination - (RRP£21.99). Available WWW.HAPPYHOPPERZ.CO.UK This luxurious, organic baby blanket from The Little Green Sheep is the perfect way to keep your little one wrapped up this spring! A selection of seasonal colours including Duck Egg Blue, £22.95 WWW. THELITTLEGREENSHEEP.CO.UK Cuddledry’s new Bunny Snuggle Towel. This super soft and fluffy hooded towel is made with clever microfiber technology and are soft as a feather and so absorbent they dry children in a matter of moments, leaving them ready for lots of snuggling and cuddling. Suitable for ages 3-6 years, £29.99 from WWW.CUDDLEDRY.COM

An Easter outfit is sure to be a popular alternative to eggs, and Frugi has some beautiful Spring themed garments to ensure your little one looks the part. Every garment is made from Frugi’s signature organic cotton, which is super soft, kind to little one’s delicate skin and looks fantastic too! Little Lizzie Long John PJs £22 0-3 years. WWW. WELOVEFRUGI.COM

Birds Do More Than Tweet - “The Little Book Of Garden Bird Songs”, is an interactive book featuring 12 of our most common garden birds and their calls. The solid board book is chunky enough for even the smallest hands to manage, and includes a page of beautifully illustrated information about each of the birds. What brings it to life is the sound bar, which enables you to identify each different bird by its song. Available online and all good book stores (RRP£12.99), children 3+ WWW.FINEFEATHERPRESS.COM We have one of these wonderful books to giveaway, please enter your details by 12th April at www.VividTitles.co.uk/competitions Skibz, the multi award winning makers of the original dribble bib, have a lovely Easter design, which not only looks adorable, but is sure to provide some protective attire whilst your tots feast on their chocolate! £10 WWW.SKIBZ.CO.UK

Keep the kids entertained with an In Ground Trampoline – A great bounce without the Eye Sore! The sunken trampoline that keeps your garden neat and your kids happy with Capital Plays innovative new In-Ground Trampoline, there is no unsightly view as you look out of your window and less worry of injury occurring without falls from the height of normal trampolines. Easy to self-install with minimal soil removal, the trampoline can be submerged into the ground making it level with the grass. The trampoline also comes with a patented TDU vented safety pad which not only keeps your little ones protected if they stray from the main trampoline area but also allows proper airflow through the trampoline reducing “pad slap” noise whilst also improving the all important bounce. Available from WWW.CAPITALPLAY.CO.UK (RRP from £775) 10 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Enrolling Now for the Summer Term!

Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow

Believing in the potential of every child Call now to find out more and reserve your place

01494 533203 henley@stagecoach.co.uk highwycombe@stagecoach.co.uk

Ages 4-18 Fun, confidence-building, educational classes in acting, singing and dance.

QUALITY TRAINING

ESTABLISHED 1988 600 SCHOOLS NATIONWIDE MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 11

Be a Cadbury’s Eggsplorer with the National Trust The National Trust and Cadbury are once again joining forces to bring chocolate-flavoured fun to the Easter holidays in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire and Oxfordshire. This year, families are invited to become a Cadbury Eggsplorer by unleashing their inner explorer and following adventurous trails to win a chocolate Egghead prize. Every single EASTER EGG trail will help support special places looked after by the National Trust for future generations to explore. Normal admission prices apply. Entry for National Trust members is free. Find out more at www.eastereggtrail.com

NT/Chris Lacey

BERKSHIRE BASILDON PARK, NEAR PANGBOURNE Enjoy the surroundings of this elegant Georgian mansion which has starred in many period film and TV dramas, including Pride and Prejudice and Downton Abbey. Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 10am-4pm (£3) Easter egg trail in the garden with Cadbury Egghead prize. MAIDENHEAD & COOKHAM COMMONS, MAIDENHEAD Fri 3 Apr 11am-3pm (Child £3) Follow a woodland trail and win a Cadbury Egghead. BUCKINGHAMSHIRE ASHRIDGE ESTATE, NEAR TRING Discover the secrets of our woodland and wildlife. Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 10am-4pm (Child £3) Follow the woodland trail and win a Cadbury Egghead. BOARSTALL DUCK DECOY, NEAR BICESTER Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 11am-5pm (£1.50 per trail) Follow the trail, solve the puzzle and win a Cadbury Egghead. CLAYDON, NEAR WINSLOW Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 11am-4pm (£2.50 per trail) Join our treasure hunt and solve the clues to win a Cadbury Egghead. Suitable for 5-12 year olds CLIVEDEN, NEAR MAIDENHEAD. Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 11am-4pm (£3) Hunt for clues around the magnificent gardens and win a Cadbury Egghead. HUGHENDEN MANOR, HIGH WYCOMBE Sat 28 Mar – Mon 6 Apr 11am-4pm 12 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

NT/Rob Stothard

Follow a trail around the grounds to win your chocolate Egghead STOWE , NEAR BUCKINGHAM. Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 10am-4pm (£2.50 per trail) Turn detective and find hidden stories behind some of Stowe’s temples. WADDESDON MANOR, NEAR AYLESBURY Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 10am-4pm (Child £3) Crack the code to claim your Cadbury chocolate reward. OXFORDSHIRE THE BUSCOT AND COLESHILL ESTATES, NEAR FARINGDON Sun 5 Apr 11am-3.30pm (Child £2) Fun Easter trail in Badbury Wood to win a Cadbury Egghead. CHASTLETON HOUSE, NEAR STOW-ON-THE-WOLD Fri 3rd-Sun 6th Apr (Closed Easter Monday) (£2 per trail) Hunt the clues to our Easter puzzle and claim your chocolate prize. GREYS COURT, NEAR HENLEY ON THAMES Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 10am-5pm (Child £3) Follow the clues around the picturesque gardens to win a Cadbury Egghead. NUFFIELD PLACE, NEAR HENLEY ON THAMES Fri 3 – Mon 6 Apr 10am-5pm (Child £3) Follow the clues around the gardens to win a Cadbury Egghead. WHITE HORSE HILL, UFFINGTON Sat 4 Apr 11am-3.30pm (Child £2) Complete our family trail to win a Cadbury Egghead.

Local landscape

Easter is of great importance and has for many centuries had an overwhelming influence on our lives. It was the need to calculate when Easter would be celebrated that led to the adoption of the "Modern calendar" or Gregorian calendar in 1582, that we are still using to this day. The calculation of when Easter Sunday will fall, is incredibly complicated but with the adoption of the Modern Calendar, we can now say Easter will fall anywhere between the 19 March and the 22 April. We look forward to a couple of days off, and although Good Friday has always been a day of rest. It wasn’t until the Bank Holidays Act of 1871 that Easter Monday was added giving us the Easter break we know today. The giving and receiving of eggs on Easter Sunday dates back to early Christianity. Its significance and meaning has been lost in the mists of time. The eggs were the eggs of the Hare, a mythical creature associated with Easter. No one knows for certain how the idea of Hares laying eggs came about. One theory is that as Hares don’t have a burrow or shelter, but make a shallow scrape in an open area, called a form. A form could be mistaken for a nest and so the myth of the egg laying Hare was started. The normally sedate Hare also attracted attention at this time of year and the term mad as a March Hare came into our language. Normally shy creatures during March and April Hares can been seen in groups in fields and open land. A fight will suddenly break out and the combatants leap into the air. This boxing is not as most people think two males fighting. Normally it’s a female warding off the unwanted advances of a prospective suitor. The female is normally the one doing the chasing and the hitting. Later in the year the form is where the young hares or leverets are born. Just like chicks the leverets stay in the form all day awaiting mothers return. The mother may only return to the form to feed the leverets once or twice a day normally after sunset. A modern tragedy is people coming across leverets, worried that they have been abandoned by the mother and take them to the wildlife hospital. It is best to just leave them where they are found, young leverets are notoriously difficult to hand rear and many that are saved in this way don’t make it. Traditional Easter eggs have mainly been replace by the chocolate variety after J.S. Fry introduced the chocolate egg in 1873. The Hare associated with Easter, lost out in Victorian Britain when Easter cards started to show baby Rabbits and ducklings. These became the new icons of renewal and the coming of summer. This year, Easter falls early in April. Make time and get out

in the countryside. Depending on the weather you may just witness boxing Hares. If you can’t find a Hare to watch, ponds and rivers should have ducklings for your enjoyment. Mark & Jacky Bloomfield

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MAKE YOUR HOUSE INTO A HOME Ashford Kitchens Offer a complete, hassle-free design and installation service for kitchens, bedrooms and home ofﬁces

or the past thirty years, Ashford Kitchens & Interiors has helped transform houses into homes. Offering a complete design, supply and fully project-managed installation service for kitchens, bedrooms and home ofﬁces, customers travel from far and wide for the expert advice provided by the familyrun, KBSA-registered business. Excelling in the variety of goods it has for sale, the company boasts a vast range of specialist worktops, expert knowledge and excellent prices on brand leading appliances, ﬂooring, tiles, lighting and high quality cabinetry from leading British based manufacturers – all of which can be viewed at one of the company’s modern,

inspiring, spacious showrooms in Ashford, Middlesex and their newest, Farnham Common, Bucks. Ashford Kitchens and Interiors recognise that refurbishing a kitchen, bedroom or home office is a major financial commitment, and can be a stressful experience. As such, the company is proud to offer a hasslefree, individual service which exceeds expectations, meeting needs in terms of design, budget and timeliness. For those looking to take advantage of the installation service, customers can rest assured that Ashford Kitchen and Interior’s installation teams are all fully-qualified, and will issue all of the required gas safe and part-p electrical certification. Ashford Kitchens and Interiors

offers a free, no-obligation, kitchen, bedroom or home ofﬁce and planning service with computer aided design software to help client’s visualise their renovation project. ‘Not many kitchen companies take on full project management’ says company director, Stephen Flower, ‘but this is something we pride ourselves on.’ Ashford Kitchens & Interiors is at 1-2 The Parade, The Broadway, Farnham Common and 85 Church Road, Ashford, Middlesex. info@ashfordinteriors.co.uk www.ashfordinteriors.co.uk 01753 642362 or 01784 245964

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Create the relaxed country look C

laire Wood, Home design advisor at John Lewis High Wycombe shares her top 10 tips for transforming your space into a country idyll. Claire say’s ‘ This look combines the beauty of natural materials with traditional craftsmanship. Casual florals and a soft colour palette help create this easy rural aesthetic’

1. Keep the rural references and choose a gentle palette of cream, stone and sage green. Look to nature and bring out other colours of duck egg and rose pink, creamy white and pebble grey. 2. Beautifully made, furniture that is both robust and elegant is central to this look, classic shapes and natural materials capture rustic charm like the classic Windsor rocker4.

3. Show off the character of your home and leave brickwork exposed and floorboards bare. Add a sheepskin rug to bring some texture into your room1. 4. Bring the outside in: take a single approach to accessorising and fill every room with flowers and foliage. Mix it with artificial flowers for a lively look all year round. 5. This relaxed look is all about tactile textures – introduce

warmth with cushions, and choose interesting accessories in glass and ceramic. This blue jug is adorned with a stunning pattern adding interest and excitement5. 6. Create a sense of nostalgia with treasured objects that are part of your personal history. 7. Come home to a look that exudes warmth and comfort, no matter what the season, with an abundance of cushions inspired by nature6. 8. Bring nautical design elements to the kitchen and combine natural textures of wood, stone and concrete. Attractive ovento-tableware and carved wooden accessories provide a rustic warmth that enhance the style2. 9. In the bedroom, pretty floral wallpaper provides a colourful accent to a natural space. Increase the comfort factor with scatter cushions, crisp linens, tactile throws and rugs. Add an angular pendant light for a modern twist. 10. When it comes to the garden, solid whitewashed or driftwood finished furniture compliments this theme. Take a natural approach to accessorising with abundant displays of garden flowers and add vintage charm with classic blue and white tableware3.

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6 MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 21

Home Improvements

For common causes of Damp

And exterior makeovers

1. Leaking high-level gutters and/or rainwater pipes - these are a common cause of low dampness in walls, especially in solid external walls. Gutters and rainwater pipes can get blocked with falling leaves and other debris and should be cleaned out and checked for defects from time to time. The Society for the Protection of Ancient Buildings (SPAB) has a useful guide to guttering maintenance - for all types of building - at www.spab.org.uk/media-centre/ press-releases/press-release/?ContentID=2 - 73.

1. The latter decades of the 20th century weren’t our finest in terms of architecture, and some houses from the 1950s onwards just aren’t that attractive. If your home is among those aesthetics forgot, an architect or builder will be able to help you transform the exterior. Detached houses are the best candidates for an extreme makeover, because there isn’t an adjoining reminder of the old look, but properties of all shapes and sizes can benefit from an exterior redesign.

2. High abutting external ground levels - either at or above the line of the original damp proof course (DPC), or at or above the level of the internal floor. As a guide, ground levels externally should be a minimum of 15cm below the DPC.

2. While you can rarely be as adventurous with the colours you use on the outside of your home as on the inside, you don’t need to stick to white, cream or magnolia - there are some lovely shades of masonry paint. However, you do need to consider what will go with the surrounding buildings, if there are any planning restrictions (see below) and what suits the style and period of the building.

3. Blocked external vents to ground floors - the void underneath a suspended floor must be ventilated to prevent a build-up of moisture, as excessive moisture can lead to low-level dampness in the walls and will eventually decay a suspended wooden floor. If you have a suspended floor, check that the air bricks providing ventilation aren’t blocked, obstructed or missing 4. Chimneys and fire hearths - open chimney pots can allow rainwater to penetrate into the chimney cavity and permeate right down through the building. Also, due to the construction of some buildings, usually preEdwardian ones, dampness can be drawn up from the ground below into the chimney breast and reveal walls. 5. General defects - lots of common defects in buildings can result in internal dampness, including poor or defective mortar courses in external walls, defective sealant around windows and doors, poorly maintained wooden windows and doors, and broken, cracked or defective stone window sills.

3. If a lick of paint isn’t going to do much, don’t despair. Rendering an unattractive exterior can work wonders, as can getting rid of ugly render - pebbledash, for example, isn’t to everyone’s taste, but it can be removed. If you do this, the brickwork underneath will almost certainly suffer, so covering it with (more contemporary) smooth render is usually your best bet. You can even insulate the exterior at the same time and render over the insulation panels. Cladding - with wood or wood-effect panelling - some of the exterior walls can look fantastic too, as long as it suits the building. 4. Adding dormer windows and replacing unattractive concrete roof tiles with slate ones can also go a long way to giving your home character and kerb appeal. Another way to enliven a boring, featureless facade is to add an attractive porch. And don’t forget the windows and doors. Changing the style of these can make a big difference to the look of your home and may make it warmer (with improved glazing) and more secure (with better locks) as well. 5. Before you start making changes, find out whether planning permission is required. The area where you live, as well as the type of building - listed buildings can’t usually be altered without consent from the local council - can affect your plans. If you live on ‘designated land’, which includes conservation areas, you may not be able to do what you want with your home’s exterior - wooden windows are usually preferred by the local council, for example. In some cases, permitted development rights have been removed from houses (flats don’t have permitted development rights), which means that everything from fitting new windows to painting the front door may require planning permission. Julia Gray,

22 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

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FOR THE HOME

Turtle Mats absorb and trap 95% of moisture, including mud and dirt! They are also machine washable, with a 5 year guarantee and a must have addition to a garden entrance. The mats have super thick rubber backing so the mat doesn’t move even when the dog takes a running jump onto it from outside or wiping shoes/boots clean. Turtle Mats come in a range of colours and patterns. Eg. Bright Botanic - £42.95 www.turtlemat.co.uk/bright-botanical/

3M Command Products are a range of ingenious adhesive strips and hooks which allow home lovers to hang decorations, pictures and much more without the hassle of nails, screws etc. Holding fast to wood, tile, metal or to painted walls. Yet when the time comes the strips and hooks can be removed from walls quickly and easily without leaving any marks - www.commandstrips.co.uk

8 5 6 7

24 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

1. Nine Schools Small Chinese cabinet in oyster grey - RRP £150 - www.thenineschools.co.uk 2. Plum Passion Purple rose gloss finish wall art RRP £60 - www.grahambrown.com 3. Zanzibar - Inspired by the spice markets in Zanzibar, these fabrics exude bold geometric patterns in a variety of colours: charcoal, aqua, sunset, indigo and fuchsia - www.clarke-clarke. co.uk 4. Manor House - a mix of embroided patterns on linen, woven checks & jaquards in 9 designs: sand, acacia and chambray duck egg - www. clarke-clarke.co.uk 5. Soft pastels translated from the catwalk to interiors for SS15. Available in bold stripes and checks all crafted in teh UK. - www. barkerandbarker.co.uk 6. Boho Green and Verdant Teal wallpaper RRP£12 & £15 per roll - www.grahambrown.com 7. Retro set of pastel suitcases - RRP £19.99 from

www.nationalgallery.co.uk 8. Plant friendly home products from Method multi-surface spray RRP £3.00. Air care range RRP £3.75in variety of fragrances. Available at selected Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, B&Q, Homebase, Ocado. com, Robert Dyas and www.methodproducts.co.uk.

9. New Damp Clear Moisture Trap is a hassle-free, very effective way of removing excess moisture from the home, using hydroscopic crystals to absorb moisture in a space which is collected at the base of the product. RRP £4.99 - Homebase, B & Q, Wilko - www.kilrock.co.uk

THE RIGHT FRAME Gillian Cumming from ByGillian Gallery says “There is far more to having a home tastefully hung with works of art than simply buying a picture.” Choosing the right design mount and frame to suit both the subject and the room in which it will hang also requires skill, judgment and taste. From imposing old masters and still life’s to delicate drawing and modern screen prints from fabrics and tapestries to canvases the frame can make or break your picture. When choosing the frame the aim is above all to provide the best possible surround enhancing the works, but not competing with it, choice of colour of mount, style and colour of frame, along with the design of the frame should complement the period and style of the works. From classical styles that work well with oils and old masters, gold frames bring out the warmth and mellowness in a painting. Gold also reflects the light onto the work. For Modern oils and acrylics hand painted frames achieve maximum simplicity with a very pale or dark finish to make a statement. Nowadays with such a variety of art and the current trend for large modern canvases stretching a canvas then float framing it is an excellent way to display an artwork. A dark

frame may well look stunning where the painting itself is in dark tones drawing the viewer into the picture without distraction of colour or mould of the frame. In a world where almost everything is mass-produced a bespoke frame is one of the few areas of life, which we can afford the pleasure of commissioning something made by hand. This luxury is still available when choosing a frame for a picture.

“I love my Anthony Mullan kitchen.”

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 25

Roses are red..... Indeed, roses may not be in bloom naturally at this time of the year, but they will provide you with plenty of colour and scent in the summer months if you give them a little TLC and plant them where they’re happy. It’s also now a perfect time to order bare-root roses to plant during the dormant season so they can get a head-start for summer.

There are so many types of roses but if you want to plant them among other specimens in beds and borders, then English Roses by David Austin are probably your best bet, they are repeatflowering, reliable and often disease resistant (although always check on the label or ask someone if you’re not sure). Many are good for cutting although personally I can’t bear to cut my own roses. I would much rather they flourish in the garden, outside for all to see. Good red roses are difficult to breed. The challenge is to get a good combination of both fragrance and health and dark red roses in particular are subject to burning in the sun. But if you have your heart set on one, look out for ‘Darcey Bussell’, a compact, bushy variety which flowers all summer, producing clusters of rosette-shaped flowers of deep crimson and a fruity scent. It’s ideal for a smaller garden, a narrow border or even a large pot. I always find red quite a hard colour to match, preferring the pinks and pastel shades of other English roses including the fragrant ‘Gertrude Jekyll’, which I grow up an obelisk in my mixed border with Clematis ‘Nelly Moser’, a beautiful pink and white-striped hybrid. Together, they provide a stunning display in June and beyond. Roses are hungry feeders, so make sure you add plenty of organic matter such as well-rotted manure or compost to the soil before planting, digging a hole much bigger than the roots so that they can easily spread out and make sure 26 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Eglantyne B (Ausmak) Photo:David Austin

Munstead Wood (Ausbernard) Photo:David Austin

the surrounding soil is cultivated, not compacted, or the roots won’t spread. When planted, the base of the stems should be about 3in (7.5cm) below ground level. Newly-planted roses will also need to be kept well watered when they are trying to establish. Add rose fertiliser in March or April, at the start of the growing season, and again in June to repeat-flowering varieties and mulch them with compost in spring. All roses need four or five hours of sunshine a day during the growing season to thrive, although some can take more shade than others. Avoid areas where there are overhanging branches and dry places where there would be too much competition from the roots of other trees and shrubs. Climbing roses such as ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles Climbing’ should do well on an open north-facing wall. Shorter companion plants can be used around them, allowing the roses to display their beauty to the full. Avoid using invasive perennials or shrubs which might overpower the roses. Instead, go for light, airy perennials such as lady’s mantle (Alchemilla mollis), whose soft rounded leaves and lime-green flowers make a colourful base to your rose bushes and don’t take away the glory of the rose flowers. Pale pink varieties like ‘Eglantine’ can be easily partnered with deep purple perennial salvias or perennial geraniums such as ‘Johnson’s Blue’. Copper-coloured specimens such as ‘Pat Austin’ make a good match for soft blue nepeta underneath.

Rosa ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’ Photo:David Austin

The taller English Roses will add height and structure to the mixed border without the need for staking, while the more compact varieties are perfect for the front of the border. It is particularly important to plant roses in small groups in the border as this will create the most pleasing effect. If you need to fill in space, good annuals which will combine well with roses include love-in-a-mist such as Nigella ‘Miss Jekyll’ or the feathery Cosmos bipinnatus, with its large single flowers in white, pink and purple. And then, of course, we come to pruning - but that’s a story for another day. By Hannah Stephenson

Photos courtesy PAPhoto/think stockphotos

Darcey Bussell (Ausdecorum) Photo:David Austin

Growing potatoes in pots

When to prune your fruit trees The team at Calibra Tree Surgeons looks at when you should pamper your fruit trees and get them ready for Spring. Spring is nearly upon us and couldn’t come soon enough. By April time buds will start to appear on plants and trees and new growth will be developing.

roots. If you remove the new growth before the tree has a chance to replenish the energy, it can weaken the tree.

It is especially important to prune your Fruit Trees before the new growth begins. New growth is produced by the stored energy in the

The pruning work should generally be carried out in March time as warmer temperatures in April may stimulate budding and tree growth.

Large Tree Dismantling

Tree Felling and Shaping

Potato enthusiasts should be ‘chitting’ their seed potatoes now, putting them in egg boxes or on trays on a windowsill to encourage the potatoes to produce shoots, which will need to be about 2.5cm long before planting. If you don’t have much space, you can grow potatoes in large pots or even used compost bags, spacing three to five tubers on a 10cm layer of compost and covering with another 10cm of compost and watering in well. When the stems are 20cm tall, cover them to half their height with compost and gradually add more compost as the stems get taller, stopping when you are nearly at the top of the container. Keep plants well watered during dry spells. They should be ready to harvest about two weeks after the flowers appear.

Bathstone Ltd specialise in g a rd e n o u t b u i l d i n g s

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MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 27

FOR THE GARDEN

Spice - A richly textured short pile chenille cushion with a flecked and tufted surface, 40 x 40cm. Available in Chicory or Seasalt, £92.00 each (piped). £63.00 per linear metre www.extex.co.uk

4 Tier Greenhouse from their ‘Grow your own’ range just in time for Spring RRP £17.99 www.aldi. co.uk

Solar - Pioneering glow in the dark fabric inspired by the nature of our galaxies & star systems. £134.50 per linear metre - www.extex.co.uk cushions £116 each - www.luxdeco.com

Haze Strawberry- A classic non-chenille plain cushion that’s woven using 100% solutiondyed acrylic, 40 x 40cm. Available in Azure, Maize and Steel, £72.00 each (unpiped) or Spa £87.00 each (piped). £48.75 per linear metre - www.extex.co.uk

Beachbum UK’s beanbags are perfect for spring or when the sun finally appears drag the bag outside for a perfect place to lounge. 100% durable and completely waterproof. Prices start from.£90 for the Solo Bean Bags £165 for the Arm Chair Bean Bag - www.beachbumuk.com

28 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

A Gift Certificate from www.my-gardenschool.com - For £145 the recipient will receive a four week virtual course with a leading horticultural expert. For example, Harriet Rycroft (ex head gardener at Whichford pottery) has a new course on container planting (perfect for spring) or Charlie Ryrie has a new course on growing your own cutting garden. For more information on courses available www.my-garden-school.com/courses

Calligaris Italian Contemporary furniture with clean lines & smooth elegant curves, using the most technologically advanced materials available. Area 51 chair (£91) and table (£384) in variety of colours www.calligarisinteriors.co.uk

Cast Iron Boot Rack - self assembly and hand - made in England by I & J L Brown RRP £99.95 www.ijlbrown.com Graham’s Calendulis Plus Cream, a combination of calendula & manuka honey to help hydrate and sooth red & inflamed skin - a must for all gardeners! (120g £24.99/30g £13.95) www.grahamskincare.co.uk

Seedbombs for Bees, these can be thrown into any environment to grow new plants with the added benefit that they attract bees to help their numbers grow. From the Natural History Museum £12.99 - www.nhmshop.co.uk/ seedbombs-for-bees.html

Bear Grylls launches “Mission Survive” “I’m a celebrity on steroids”.

Adventurer Bear Grylls has embarked on many challenges throughout the course of his life, from climbing Mount Everest, a mere eighteen months after breaking his back, to serving for three years as a reservist with the SAS. words: Martin Hinestitle

However, his latest project may be his most daring yet, as he hosts “Mission Survive”, a new ITV show which features eight celebrities learning how to survive in the jungle. The cast includes Rugby World Cup winner Mike Tindall, double Olympic gold medallist Kelly Holmes, pop stars Jamelia and Max George, actors Emilia and Laurence Fox, comedian Tom Rosenthal, and model Vogue Williams. 40-year-old Grylls has embarked on a creative publicity campaign for the show, memorably smashing through the glass windows of This Morning harnessed by a rope. The presenter is clearly proud of his new program, and describes the concept as “an empowering journey for people where some crumble, and some come alive.” Despite being on the same channel and featuring some similar aspects of ITV’s I’m A Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here!, the differences are significant, with Grylls confirming that “even though we have celebrities and yes we’re in a jungle, this is I’m A Celebrity on steroids.” Celebrities are not treated with special care or sympathy on the show, and are mostly left to use their own initiative, which becomes tested when faced with difficult tasks including jumping

out of helicopters and climbing down waterfalls, or even simply lighting a fire or finding shelter. Perhaps the most unique aspect of “Mission Survive” is the lack of an easily identifiable winner’s prize. This is because the idea of the series is intended to be, in Grylls’ own words, “about me trying to build the contestants into a hero, so that if my kids were there without me lost in the jungle I’d want those celebrities beside them.” This thought process is key for Grylls, who aimed for this to be not just a typical reality show, but one for people taking part who want “the sense of achievement, that when pushed under pressure they have the steel that will drive people on.” One of the most demanding moments of the series occurs in episode two, when the celebrities are forced to drink a pint of their own urine. Grylls became notorious in his earlier career when he drank his own waste on television, and after years of survival training, there are not many items he won’t consume if it means staying alive. ”I’ve learnt in survival to get over the grim stuff,” he admits. “If it’s good energy you need and your life is on the line you’ve got to put your prejudices aside and do it.” The removal of preconceptions is a

key component for “Mission Survive”, and Grylls is quick to point out how Silent Witness actress Emilia Fox was “well prepared, driven and determined,” while explaining that despite the involvement of two world class athletes in the competition, “muscles, fitness and strength are not the only weapon in the survivor’s arsenal.” Despite the dangers of the show, including “somebody getting stung by bees and half drowning”, plus a hospital visit for Mike Tindall after he got hit on the head by a piece of wood, the physical nature of the show was not the hardest part for all involved. “I said to the celebrities at the beginning that you have to embrace failure,” remembers Grylls. ”It’s so counterculture for people, especially when you’re on TV to dare to fail, because you’ll look silly or vulnerable, but the heart of survival is embracing failure, to be resourceful and never give up until you get what you want,” he adds.”Mission Survive” is a rare anomaly in the world of terrestrial television, a show that despite the famous faces and the exotic location offers a more philosophical and human approach to competition, survival, and self-improvement. Bear Grylls: Mission Survive, starts Friday 20 February, 9pm, ITV for six episodes

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 29

HENLEY ARTS TRAIL 2015 Bank holiday Weekend: Saturday 2nd - Monday 4th May

Be inspired by the original work of local artists, unique pieces and the opportunity to meet the makers when you visit the venues at the 10th Henley Arts Trail . Since its inception in 2006 the Henley Arts Trail has grown into a regular feature of the cultural and social calendar of Henley on Thames. Now in its 10th year, Henley Arts Trail is formed of 25 venues which can be found between Bix in the north and Twyford and Waltham St Lawrence in the south. More than 150 professional and up-coming artists, award winners amongst them, will display more than a thousand artworks covering a large range of media. This year promises to be even bigger with over 10,000 visitors expected and free entry to all events. Many of the artists welcome guests and talk about their work as well as offering refreshments and demonstrations/workshops for visitors who would like to have a go themselves.

HENLEY ARTS TRAIL

Sponsored by:

May Bank Holiday Weekend

Sat 2 May – Mon 4 May 2015 Artists’ studios & exhibitions in the Henley – Twyford area

Visit www.henleyartstrail.com to download the map or pick up a leaflet from your local library, then keep any eye out for the pink Henley Arts trail signs. Enjoy the Trail!

TRAIL VENUES: 1.

Henley Art & Crafts Guild Paintings, prints, sculptures & more at the Old Fire Station Gallery, Henley-onThames

11. Lady Sew and Sew Patchwork quilts & textile art

Naera Guerin & friends Paintings, sculptures, mixed media & drawings

13. Wendy Penrose Jewellery Silver & glass jewellery

The Bix Six & friends Textiles, paintings, photography,jewellery, soaps & potions, printing, wood, ceramics, decorative items

Assenden Glass: Anne Arlidge Glass

Lynda Hopkins Painting & sculptures

Allan Henderson Sculpture, Drawing, installation, prints & painting

Old Smithy Studio Painting, photography, pottery, sculpture, textile work & prints Diana Seidl, Judith Fletcher & friends Painting, iPad/prints, ceramics, photography & sculpture John Loader Painting in oils & acrylics.

10. The Garden Studio Ceramics, prints, 3-dimensional mixed media, water colours, woven & stitched textiles

12. Artists at Shiplake Textiles, ceramics, painting & woodwork

14. Shiplake Arts & Crafts Painting, sculptures, ceramics, glass, textiles, photography, jewellery & pottery 15. Stitches & Silver Upholstered furniture, jewellery, textiles, painting, prints, ceramics, glass, metal, sculpture & more 16. Wargrave Arts Painting, photography & mixed media 17. The Big Plant Nursery: Art in the Garden See opposite page for more details 18. Este MacLeod Painting, prints & mixed media art 19. Twyford Studios Painting, sculpture, stone carving, ceramics, jewellery & much more

Original work by local artists – unique pieces – meet the makers AFrllee entry venues

For details and a trail map:

www.henleyartstrail.com

lettering & basket-making 22. Buratta’s at the Royal Oak Pastel, collage, acrylics, ceramics & small painted furniture 23. West Forest Potters Ceramics 24. Coltman’s Farm Painting, sculpture & woodcraft 25. Catherine Ingleby & friends Painting & sculptures

20. The Most Beautiful House in the World Oil paintings, watercolours& small sculptures 21. Sally Castle & Christine Brewster Illustration, printing,

30 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

ART IN THE GARDEN

2ND - 4TH MAY

AT THE BIG PLANT NURSERY

Venue 17 on the Henley Arts Trail

Talented artists will be showcasing ‘Art in the Garden’ at the Big Plant Nursery Twyford, as part of the popular Henley Arts Trail during 2nd – 4th May. Each piece of art will be displayed at its best amongst the plants in the relaxing environment of this local mature plant nursery owned by garden design and landscape company Creative Landscape. May Bank Holiday weekend is the perfect time to visit for inspiration and ideas for furnishing your outdoor space so ‘save the date’.

WHY SCULPTURE IN THE GARDEN? ‘We often use sculpture within the gardens we design as they are perfect for providing the essential focal point’ says Carol Edwards, one of the garden designers based at the Big Plant Nursery. ‘What’s great about using sculpture in the garden is that every piece is unique and designed to complement the planting and landscape as well as the personal style of the garden owner. We are thrilled to be a venue on the Henley Arts Trail and look forward to welcoming visitors to this very popular event which is now in its 10th year. There will be larger pieces on show designed to add drama and make a

Bank Holiday Weekend: 2nd - 4th May

Rachel Ducker

Jenny Pickford

Mike Bigland

real statement in the garden as well as many smaller pieces of garden art that can be used as finishing touches’ adds Carol.

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Art in the Garden An exhibition of outdoor sculpture in stone, metal, wire and glass. Living art and topiary

Visit Venue17 on the Henley Arts Trail for inspiration and ideas in the garden

On display at the Big Plant Nursery will be a variety of art created by 12 unique artists. Talented contemporary blacksmith artists and bronze sculptors will showcase larger sculptures in a variety of metals and there will be many smaller pieces of art reflecting plant forms in stainless steel and glass. One artist uses bicycle parts to create their art and another uses wire as a medium for sculpting the human form. Many of the pieces can be used as water features including a water ball fountain made from glistening black pebble stones. More information on each artist can be found at www. thebigplantnursery.com One thing is for sure, with so much talent in one place inspiration for the garden will not be lacking.

LIVING ART IN THE GARDEN

www.thebigplantnursery.com Inspiring Plants and Gardens Open 7 days a week - why wait? The Big Plant Nursery, Wargrave Rd, Twyford, RG10 9PN. Tel: 0118 934 1757

During the Art Exhibition the Big Plant Nursery will be open for business as usual showcasing their take on living Art in the Garden with an inspiring range of plant displays to set off the art and beautifully clipped topiary which is an art form in itself. The nursery is open 7 days a week so there’s no need to wait until May to visit for plant and garden inspiration and advice from your local plant and garden design experts. For more information visit www.thebigplantnursery.com or their garden design and landscape division www.creative-landscape.co.uk | Tel: 0118 934 1757 MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 31

Spice up your day at the Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch 2015

Cookham Festival – for the people by the people

The festival will take place between the 2nd – 17th May

orty-eight years ago, as a young student, embarking on a veterinary science degree, Malcolm Stork had his first involvement with the Cookham Festival, then a highbrow event which promoted the best in music, drama and visual art, bringing big names such as John Rutter, Malcolm Williamson and Derek Jacobi to the village. When the generous grants from the Arts Council ceased, the Festival also ceased until it was brought back to life in 2001, as a celebration of art in its broadest sense. From then it has gone from strength to strength, drawing on the plethora of local talent from Cookham, Maidenhead and the surrounding area. Forty-eight years later, Malcolm Stork is now the Chairman of the 2015 Cookham Festival and is very proud to be a part of what has been achieved over the past years. He says, “ Cookham is the ideal place for such a festival. Not only do we have the artistic legacy

of Stanley Spencer, we have a number of fantastic venues which will host our unique events. In addition we are lucky to have a number of local sponsors who are very supportive such as Michael Shanly Charitable Trust, the John Lewis Partnership,The Louis Baylis CharitableTrust and Hitachi” The varied programme of events, which includes over 40 individual exhibitions, workshops and performances, is based on input from the local community. “We canvass opinions from local people and this forms the basis of the programme”, said Malcolm. “This year there is something for everyone; a night out at a comedy or musical event, family fun, drama and plays, workshops such as Strictly Cookham, and the Arts Hub which provides expert tuition to budding artists. Festival goers can also take advantage of the special menus and offers provided by the many pubs restaurants in the village.”

Malcolm believes that, apart from money donated to local charities from ticket sales, an important benefit is the community coming together. “More than 200 people help to make this event the success it is. They work very hard to deliver a standard worthy of many professional events. As part of the WW1 centenary Poppy Trails, we are remembering the young men of Cookham who gave their lives a hundred years ago. We are asking anybody who has a story about a relative who made the ultimate sacrifice, to come forward and share it. And this year we are delighted that the Cookham Primary Schools will join forces to perform Jonah-man Jazz. What better way to make sure that our children feel a real part of their home village?!” A rousing finale is provided by the Cantorum Choir, who are joined by members of the English and Welsh National Operas.

For more information and to find out how to purchase tickets visit www.cookhamfestival.org.uk facebook.com/cookham festival | twitter.com/cookhamfestival Mary Kirby - Mkirby332@ googlemail.com | 07860 355052 32 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

The hotly anticipated Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch is back for the eighth year running to raise money for ABF The Soldiers’ Charity. Held in the Guildhall on Thursday 16th April 2015, the charity lunch has raised more than £1.1 million since its launch in 2008, providing vital support for Service men and women around the country. Guests will be treated to delicious curries, while enjoying the company of a member of the Royal Family, as well as some of the biggest names in the City, sport and Government. Also present will be high-ranking members of the British Army and recently returned soldiers from Afghanistan. The Lunch will once again be hosted by the Rt Hon The Lord Mayor, Alderman Alan Yarrow who said: “The City of London is a long-standing and committed supporter of the UK Armed Forces. Please support The Lord Mayor’s Big Curry Lunch in aid of ABF The Soldiers’ Charity, in order that we can continue to help those soldiers and former soldiers who, together with their families, have given so much of themselves in service of our stability and security.” Guests will also have the chance to bid on money-can’t-buy prizes and experiences in the Silent Auction and Draw, including a fabulous five night stay for two at the glamorous One&Only Cape Town Resort, the opportunity to open Tower Bridge (Champagne included) and a day with the soldiers and officers of the Royal Horse Artillery. Tickets and corporate packages are available to buy now starting at £95 for all food and alcohol. To book your ticket, contact Amy Kenyon akenyon@soldierscharity.org For more information, visit www.bigcurry.org/events/lordmayor

WHAT’S ON AT CROWNE PLAZA MARLOW

MARCH

APRIL

MOTHERING SUNDAY

EASTER SUNDAY FAMILY FUN DAY LUNCH

1pm – 3pm, Sunday, 15th March

From 12.30pm, Sunday, 5th April

Treat Mum to a sumptuous 3 course lunch in Glaze Restaurant, with a bouncy castle to keep the children entertained, while Mum gets some time to relax.

3 course lunch, including a little gift for Mum £21.95 £14.95 per child (3-12); 0-2 YEARS OLD FREE

‘A DAY WITH MUM’ SPA DAY

Join us for an Easter Sunday to remember, with an Easter Egg Hunt in our extensive grounds, face painting, bouncy castle and a delicious 3 course lunch in Glaze Restaurant.

3 course lunch £21.95. £14.95 per child (3-12); 0-2 YEARS OLD FREE

EASTER SUNDAY FUN DAY Easter Egg Hunt at 11am

Available throughout March

Join in the Easter Egg Hunt in our extensive grounds, face painting and bouncy castle.

Treat your Mum to a day of pampering, a spot of lunch and some time well spent catching up, because she’s worth it.

£7.50* per child (3 – 12); 0 – 2 YEARS OLD FREE

• 1 x 25 minute treatment • Glass of fizz • Lunch in agua café & bar* • Full use of Quad Club Facilities

*Admission free with Easter Sunday Lunch. Please show your Lunch Booking Confirmation on entry.

*Set menu applies. This package is available throughout March, subject to availability.

£49.00 per person

Book now for our fabulous events at Crowne Plaza Marlow. Call 01628 496 860 or email enquiries@cpmarlow.co.uk Crowne Plaza Marlow, Fieldhouse Lane, Marlow, Buckinghamshire, SL7 1GJ

T: 01628 496 860

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 33

Did you know there is a lovely woodland and river walk behind the Emmett and Stone store that is open to the public? To access the walk, take the footpath through Wilton Farm (past Emmett’s Farm Shop) and up the farm track. When you reach the kissing gate in the hedge, walk to the right of the hedge and along the boundary of Bloom Wood.

Walking Along The Thames

ith the Spring weather upon us, it’s time to dust off those walking boots and get out to enjoy the beautiful countryside around the Thames. Whether a (r)ambler, serious hiker, or Nordic walker, the riverside awaits your visit! Nordic Walking has proven itself as not just a fad, but a popular fitness regime. If the gym isn’t for you, or you haven’t exercised in a while, it could be ideal. Its outstretched arm action creates a full body movement, using 90% of the body’s muscles. Call into Emmett and Stone Country Sports to try out the range of Leki walking poles, and find one just right for you. But you don’t have to use poles to gain health benefits! Hiking outdoors has plenty of perks: nice views, fresh air, and the sounds and smells of nature. But hiking is a powerful cardio workout too that can lower your risk of heart disease, Improve your blood pressure and blood sugar

levels and boost bone density. Boot Up There is a wide range of footwear for hiking ranging from going barefoot to mountaineering boots. The type of boot you require will depend on what you plan to do, how much support you want and what your budget is! Emmett and Stone Country Sports is your local stockist of Meindl, Harkila and Ridgeline walking boots. Visit them in store for a no rush fitting. Tony or Ryan will be happy to help you choose the right boot for the type of walking you are planning. Wearing good quality socks while hiking will also make your hike a much better experience and are an important piece of gear you should invest in. The main goals of your hiking socks are to cushion, wick moisture from your feet, give warmth, reduce blister - causing friction and to some extent, to improve boot fit. Nowadays socks are composite technical wonders,

At the Chiltern Way sign you can turn left and walk 50m to view a mediaeval enclosure. Back at the junction, cross two tracks following the Chiltern Way signs. Where the Chiltern Way and public footpath diverge follow the public footpath across a track where it becomes wide. You will end up on the southern edge of the wood facing the river. Follow the Chiltern Way path down into Fern Lane and along it to the Marlow Road. You can re-trace your footsteps back to your car. For more information and to download a map visit www.chilternsaonb.org

using different materials in different sections of the sock to best fulfil a job. And don’t forget to apply the right boot care to prolong the investment in your footwear. Emmett and Stone stock a range of wax, cream and sprays for each boot and shoe type as well as a full range of sockwear. Visit Emmett and Stone at Wilton Farm in Little Marlow any day bar Sunday from 9am - 5pm.

Keep your pets safe in the garden this Spring Spring is in the air and as a dog owner this is one of my favourite seasons – not too hot for long walks, not quite as many muddy paws and longer evenings allowing for an extra stroll around the block. However there are a few Spring hazards that can harm your pets – here we share some garden hazards that you may not be aware of. Many people use mulch in their gardens and there are certain types that pet owners should not use. Cocoa bean mulch, for example, is toxic because it is made from the hulls of cocoa beans, it has a rich chocolate aroma that entices animals to eat it. Chocolate contains a substance called theobromine, which is a caffeine 34 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

derivative toxic to animals and can even kill them if enough is ingested. Did you know that tulips, daffodils and garden hyacinths are toxic to dogs and cats? Although all parts of the plant are toxic, it is the bulbs that actually contain the most toxins. Keep these plants in an area that cannot be accessed by your pets or monitor them when they are near these particular plants.    All the parts of lilies, even a tiny amount, can cause kidney failure in cats, amaryllis can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, depression and tremors. Azalea and Rhododendron can also be harmful to small animals. Non-toxic bulbs include spring crocus and grape hyacinth. Safe alternatives may be Easter orchids,

daisies, violets or Easter cactus. If you are not sure talk to the experts at your local garden centre.  Always investigate whether fertilizers are safe for use around pets and to keep pets indoors for as long as the instructions suggest if using pesticides If you are at all concerned that your pet has been exposed to a poisonous substance, don’t delay calling your vet – it’s always better to be safe than sorry! Claire Fryer

Visit us any time! Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll ďŹ nd everything from sturdy footwear and country clothing, to scopes, binoculars, guns for beginners and experts alike.

15% OFF Walking Boots/Socks & Poles 15% Your local country sports experts

9am - 5pm Mon - Sat

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Marlow Road Little Marlow

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01628 474 187

www.emmettandstoneshop.co.uk

From cold to warm ….. How to do Transitional Pieces

Swapping from a winter to spring wardrobe can be a very daunting experience. Most of us ladies are tired of heavy coats and woolly scarves by this time of the year so we listen to the weather forecasts hoping for good news but the British climate as we all know can be quite unpredictable. Our advice is to get a few essential pieces that can take you through early spring to summer. A bit of colour, a bit of fun, something pretty to brighten each day… PICK ONE DRESS multi coloured, smart casual, easy to wear with a cardigan or jacket for a chilly day or pretty shoes and a shawl on a summer evening.

PICK ONE DAY TOP plain cotton top with a flattering neckline. It’s easy to team up with a pair of jeans, smart work trousers or a skirt. Accessorise with a pretty scarf or a piece of jewellery. ONE FINE KNIT a cool and sophisticated garment that can be worn day or evening. Pick a soft, flattering colour for easy mix and match with your bottoms.

ONE JACKET a light weight jacket is a must for every woman’s wardrobe. Pick a denim one for extra fashion factor or a simple, tailored one for that chic understated look. ONE PAIR OF JEANS 5 a classic staple. This is one piece of your wardrobe that you simply cannot do without. The most versatile and easy to wear piece of clothing. Invest wisely in the best shape for you with a quality and feel to make you feel good!

36 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

1. French Dressing Jeans (FDJ) from Swish Boutique, Marlow www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 2. Cashmere Blend Purple Poncho from Wisner, Marlow www.WisnerLondon.com 3. Dress & Jacket from Pizazz, Bourne End - www. PizazzOnline.co.uk 4. Layered Look by Viz a Viz from Pizazz, Bourne End www.PizazzOnline.co.uk 5. Jersey Dress from Swish Boutique, Marlow - www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 6. Top & Trousers from Swish Boutique, Marlow - www.SwishBoutique.co.uk 7. Black & White loose jacket Georgede from Pizazz, Bourne End - www.PizazzOnline.co.uk

Our favourite Spring/Summer accessory THE SCARF

Wearing a scarf has almost become a second nature to most women. And there is a good reason for it. It’s the most versatile of all accessories and it can be worn all year round. If you are interested in learning more about the Art of wearing a scarf, pop into a Swish Boutique in Marlow, Liston Court or check the website www.swishboutique.co.uk for free advice.

Flamboyance, Flair, Glamour - they’re all here at Pizazz! Pay us a visit and see our fantastic ranges including all the sought after labels. PLUS a range of Special Occasion Wear at competitive prices from label’s such as Gina Bacconi, Michaela Louisa & Georgede. Ideal for Weddings | Cruises | Ascot

BOUTIQUE

WINTER SALE CONTINUES on our casual ranges 27 The Parade, Bourne End Bucks SL8 5SB

tel: 01628 522590 email: enquiries@pizazzshop.co.uk web: www.pizazzonline.co.uk

www.swishboutique.co.uk

Tel: 01628 476 467

5 Liston Court, Marlow

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 37

Spring Beauty Top tips for eyebrows from Suman Jalaf, celebrity eyebrow and lash expert at Errol Douglas, Knightsbridge 1. Always brush your eyebrows upwards and tame or set them so they don't look untidy by using clear mascara, I recommend the illimasqua brand. 2. To help increase growth, apply castor oil at night before you sleep - don’t worry if it gets on your eyelid skin. 3. Try and stick to your same brow person so they can work out a plan to get your brows to the ideal shape.. 4. Tint brows to define them only if it suits you as everyone has different shades and it depends how much we want to boost them. The opposite can be done too, so someone with super dark brows and light hair can tone down brows with a tint.

5. To fill in gaps use a brow pencil or shades, 'Tom Ford’ is my personal favourite as the product has a brush tool at the other end of it, and a sharpener all in one, with choices of shades. It’s easy to apply because it glides along the shape to colour the brows in accurately as the tip of the product has a nice angle. Plus it really lasts! 6. For uncontrollable curly brows, I do a treatment to effectively 'relax’ them, which basically uncurls the hairs and controls them. 7. If you want to pluck unwanted hairs, do this after a bath or shower, so pores are softer and more open - this causes fewer ingrowing hairs. 8. You can use growth serums to increase the growth of brows, I recommend 'revita-brow’

Pamper your face with beautiful serums and radiance boosters

Clarins Perfect Eyes & Brows palette: In Rose, For professional looking & perfectly shaped eyebrows (RRP 5.2g gold compact £35) WWW.CLARINS.COM Eyes of Horus Brow Pencils: shape, colour & definition in 3 shades: husk, dynasty, nile (RRP £15) WWW.BEAUTYBAY.COM/EYESOFHORUS

Benecos Eyebrow designer pencils: emphasise eyebrows in 2 shades: blonde & brown (RRP £4.95) WWW.BENECOS.CO.UK

Soft Lips 3

SOFT LIPS: 1. Clarins NEW instant Light Lip Comfort Oil: In honey & raspberry [online only]to comfort & moisturise the lips without oiliness/stickiness (RRP £18) WWW.CLARINS.COM 2. Clarins instant Light Lip Balm Perfector: In six shades to moisturise & illuminate with sheer colour (RRP £2.49) WWW.CLARINS.COM 3. Blistec Lip Brilliance: Nourishing with silk extracts & SPF15 protection with subtle colour (RRP £18) ALL GOOD PHARMACIES SERUMS & RADIANCE BOOSTERS 1. Clarins Double Serum: complete age concentrate silky amber serum combines the comfort of cream with the lightness of gel enhancing the dewy-freshness on the skin (RRP 30ml £55 & 50ml £69). Clarins NEW instant Light Radiance Boosting Complexion Base: In Rose, Champagne & Peach eliminates imperfections giving skin a flawless finish (RRP 30ml £26.50) WWW.CLARINS.COM 2. Perfect C Serum by Mychelle: Protect skin’s health while combating signs of ageing (RRP £29) WWW. MYCHELLEUK.COM 3. Manuka Doctor Apirefine Radiance Serum: Illuminate & boosts skin radiance for a more even complexion (RRP 30ml £17.99). Manuka Doctor Brightening Facial Oil: Regenerating formula to brighten & smooth uneven skin tone (RRP 30ml £19.99) WWW.MANUKADOCTOR.CO.UK 4. SUN Believable FACE: 2in1 facial tanner in 2 shades (medium & dark). Facial tanner with anti-ageing 6 daily moisturiser that perks up the complexion (RRP £35) WWW. SUNBELIEVABLE.COM 5. Herbalife Skin Line Minimising Serum: For skin softness, radiance & luminosity (RRP 30ml £43.35). Herbalife Daily Glow Moisturiser: Doubles skin moisture levels for 8 hours (RRP 30ml £32.65) WWW. HERBALIFE.CO.UK or WWW.HERBALIFESKIN.CO.UK 6. Facematters Anti-ageing Collagen boosting Evening Elixir: Leaving skin feeling soft, smooth, nourished appearing luminous & flawless (RRP 30ml £102). Facematters Anti-ageing Collagen boosting 24/7 Balm: Uses a powerful collagen boost to give a super restorative treatment (RRP 50g £55). A percentage of all sales goes to the charity ‘Refuge’ - women helping women (more info is available on www.vividtitles.co.uk) WWW. FACEMATTERS-SKINCARE.COM

38 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

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* Price per session when you buy a package of 5 or more sessions | Only half the full package is paid in advance | Oﬀer not valid for single session treatments | Terms & Conditions Apply

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 39

Putting a SPRING in your step (and hair!) Director, Karine Jackson says “2015 is in full swing and I think it’s time we left winter in the dark and started to look toward the brighter days. At this time of year many clients are thinking about brightening up their locks. Read on for my tips on the hottest colours for this season…” is so make sure you lock the colour in with your aftercare.

www.clairemacintyre.com

Time for a change? Kayleigh Stokes Make-up and Hair Design At 27 years old Kayleigh has been in the hair & make-up industry for 10 years, having left school at 16 to work at Toni & Guy while studying fashion. Not content with just these skills Kayleigh headed off to university to study makeup and hair design using all her skills previously gained. A dream come true and a chance of a lifetime found Kayleigh, after University, heading off to New York (the Big Apple) to work as an assistant and intern for Tim Priano, one of the biggest hair and makeup agents in the states. Over Ombré? Ombré is evolving this year to give a brighter sunnier vibe. Working alongside Ombré, adding face-framing pieces can instantly brighten up a complexion. We’re also seeing Ombré working its way higher up toward the roots for that really beachy lived in feel. Look at celebs like Rachel McAdams who’s given her on trend midi cut a 2015 spin with her now colour. Sun kissed Lengths Saving up for a summer holiday? A full head of chunky highlights every six weeks can be costly, high maintenance and aging; opt for natural sun kissed Balayage highlights throughout the hair for a much softer shade that only needs to be re-done every 8-10 weeks (and you’ll have some spare change for another beach-side cocktail!

Top Tips It’s important to keep coloured hair looking vibrant so make sure you lock in your colour with the right shampoo and conditioner for your hair type/ colour. These products do cost slightly more than high street products but after spending money getting your colour perfect, why not spend the extra few pounds to keep it looking like you’ve just stepped out of the salon for weeks to come? Look for a brand that contains wheat protein as opposed to salt (which strips hair colour) like Organic Colour Systems as this will keep your colour looking bright and radiant for this season. www.KarineJackson.co.uk

After returning to the UK, Kayleigh decided it was time to start her own business to give clients her knowledge, passion and experience as well as make her clients feel a million dollars without the price tag. So if you are looking for a new style, new colour or a makeover and you’d like to have it done in the comfort of your own home, contact Kayleigh on 07825 687852 or via www.facebook. com/kayleighstokesmakeuphairdesign

Red Alert Reds are taking centre stage this season, which is really exciting. There’s a red for everyone from coppers to brights so if you want to take the plunge with this shade, work with your colourist to determine which tone suits you. Look to celebrities such as Christina Hendricks and Emma Stone for gorgeous red inspiration. The more striking the colour (such as reds and coppers), the more noticeable the fade 40 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

www.clairemacintyre.com

‘Top 10 Romantic Hotel Rooms in the World’ THE SUNDAY TIMES

STOKE PARK

WEDDING SHOWCASE - Sunday 22nd March 2015 Stoke Park’s Palladian Mansion is truly one of the most breathtakingWeddingVenues in Buckinghamshire An intimate event showcasing Stoke Park as a Wedding venue along with some select prestigious suppliers and our Wedding Co-ordinator on hand to answer any questions. Entry from 10:30am until 3pm, there is no entry fee and no need to book. All visitors will be entered into a prize draw for the chance to win a Dinner, Bed & Breakfast stay at Stoke Park Please contact our Wedding Co-ordinator on 01753 717171 or weddings@stokepark.com Stoke Park, Park Road, Stoke Poges, Buckinghamshire SL2 4PG 35 minutes from London and 7 miles from Heathrow Airport

www.stokepark.com MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 41

15 Exercise Tips 1. LEARN TO MOVE This is number one for a reason. It's easier to learn something than it is to re-learn something; so get your fundamental movements nailed before you even think about lifting a significant weight. Learn the key "rules" to effective squatting, hinging, lunging, pushing and pulling. Do that and you'll be able to make the most of your gym time in a safe and effective way. You'll also be better than most people in the gym! 2. GET PROFESSIONAL HELP Don't just rely on the biggest guy at the gym for advice. Their experience and years of training will mean their demands and approach to training should be distinctly different to yours. A professional trainer will be able to offer you specific coaching for your needs and teach you all of the fundamentals mentioned above. You don't have to stay with them forever, but invest in yourself and your body and think of them as lessons or tutorials so that you can then make the most of your time in the gym when you go it alone. You wouldn't just buy a car and "figure it out" without driving lessons (and cars are replaceable!); so why would you do that with your body? 3. DON'T START WITH MACHINE WEIGHTS AND MOVE ON TO FREE WEIGHTS Many people see this as the "safer" option. However, what it doesn't do is teach you good movement patterns and good exercise habits in terms of recruiting and engaging relevant muscle groups for stability and control. You may well use some resistance machines but, leave these until the end of the session when you're more fatigued. You don't need enormous weights, but the benefits of free weights will always out-weight resistance machines whatever your end goal. 4. AVOID CROSSFIT CrossFit might be "cool" but it requires a lot of coordination and athletic prowess to perform it safely and effectively. Don't try and run before you can walk. If you're relatively new to the gym, this isn't for you. 5. DON'T "GET A BIT FITTER FIRST" This is a strange one that I've never understood but still hear it a lot. People think "before I go to a gym 42 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

and get fit and healthy, I'm going to try and get a BIT fit and healthy".!?! Excuse me?.. By this they usually mean that they're going to churn out some running first for a few weeks. If you're after reducing your body fat then running probably isn't the best thing for your out of condition body nor the quickest way to reduce your body fat. For this, read the next point below. 6. COMBINE RESISTANCE WORK AND CARDIOVASCULAR WORK If you want to improve your body composition, improve your cardiovascular system and become stronger and more robust with a better metabolic rate then you need cardiovascular work AND resistance work. Whatever your age, gender, aims and abilities this is true to some degree. While the ratio and balance of each will vary, the message will not don't put all your eggs in one basket. 7. AVOID JUST GROUP EXERCISE More accurately, I'd say avoid group exercise all together. At least initially. in my mind, group exercise is often contradictory as it can't cater for all abilities. Classes are getting tougher and tougher to challenge the regular attendees and numbers are so great, that you can't expect quality 1-2-1 attention and coaching from an instructor. If you're new to the gym it's likely that you won't follow good form (particularly under fatigue) so group exercise may, accidently, cause you more damage than good. Spend some time with a personal trainer and learn the fundamentals (mentioned in point 1) before throwing yourself into high intensity semi-supervised exercise. 8. TRAIN YOUR BODY - NOT YOUR EGO This can be a tough thing to do, particularly if you're 16 and trying to impress potential life partners. However, don't chase heavier weights at the peril of your technique. Work within your capabilities and focus more on mastering the movements than setting personal bests every time you enter the gym. Take your time. The great news for you is, if you're new to the gym then gains and improvements will come relatively easy to you compared to others that have exercised already for year. trust me when I say: You'll find you get WAY more benefit from doing something correctly than incorrectly but with a heavier weight.

9. TRAIN YOUR ENTIRE BODY Avoid doing things like an "arms day" and instead focus on the movement in section one. At the early stages of training you won't need such an intense stimulus for growth. If anything, you're likely to cause more discomfort than you're happy with and hamper future sessions (see point 12). Try to include plenty of lower body work too; let your body grow and develop in an even and balanced ratio to speed up results and lessen the likelihood of injuries. 10. GIVE BACK TO YOUR BODY Regular exercise is probably a new concept to you. No matter what your age, you need to give a little back and take care of your body. Think of it as fire prevention rather than fire fighting. You don't wait until your car breaks down before you put oil in it and expect it to run. 11. TAKE YOUR TIME Don't expect overnight results. Don't expect to look like the guys and girls in the gym or on the magazine covers just yet; they've probably been training and eating well for years. Be consistent and committed and your results will come,. You will get back exactly what you put in so be honest with yourself. 12. DON'T OVER-DO IT This is very "un-me" as any of my clients will tell you. However, if you're relatively new to the gym you're in a unique position. This is make or break time and you're in a psychological minefield. Try (as hard as it might be) to not go all guns blazing on week one. Avoid training for 3 hours at a time every day doing every single exercise that you know. The likelihood is, you'll be sore all over, you'll hate the soreness, miss other aspects of your life (like staying in an watching TV all night), you won't see any immediate results and so you'll get disheartened and pack the entire thing in! Trust me - this happens a lot! Instead, set yourself a realistic and sustainable gym programme (limit yourself to an hour) and weekly schedule, stick to it for 4 weeks or so before adding or adjusting it. 13. DON'T OVERLOOK YOUR DIET As the old saying goes: you can't out train a bad diet. You're now going to be putting in a lot of effort with your new exercise regime, make sure you get the

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www.independentliv.co.uk most from it by eating foods to enhance your results. Seek professional nutritional guidance but, for now: avoid sugars and processed foods and try to prepare all meals in advance. Don't say "I don't have time." If you have time to watch TV then you have time to prepare your food. Prioritise. 14. DO OVERLOOK SUPPLEMENTS Supplements are exactly that: a supplement to areas lacking in your diet. They are not the be all and end all, the missing link or the magic pill you "need". Exercise and eat well and you'll be doing

enough for now. Change everything at once and you won't know where the changes are coming from. 15. ENJOY YOURSELF Initially the gym may be a bit of a slog but make sure you look around, educate yourself and ask enough questions to find a way to make the experience enjoyable. Sure, it's hard work but there's plenty of variations you can add to exercise and the equipment you use in order to make it a little more interesting and enjoyable. If you don't enjoy it at all, you probably won't stick to it!

To Summarise... Things to focus your on: • Movement • Technique • Full body movements • Mobility • Nutrition • Enjoyment

Things NOT to focus on: • Competition • An entire session of arms • Just cardio • Just weights • Supplements

Michael Darren is a Personal Trainer working in and around the Marlow area. You can follow him on Twitter: @MichaelD_PT MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 43

How to deal with a lazy Husband Apart from the odd few, most of us face situations where our husbands do not pull their weight and the majority of family commitments and household task falls unfairly into our laps. There are several ways to deal with a lazy husband to avoid the situation escalating into conflict but first you may find it useful to understand why your husband is not doing his fair share before working on how to address the balance. Your husband’s fundamental needs For some men, societal conditioning might lead them to make the assumption that gender roles dictate that housework is a female responsibility. Although you may see this as sexist, it is an easy presumption for men to fall into especially their mothers were responsible for running the home when they were growing up or if you have children as childcare is traditionally seen as a woman’s forte. A common reason why husbands can be lazy is because the criteria men judge themselves on is different to women. One of the six fundamental needs of every human being is significance and for a man significance is often defined by their career, leading them to focus more on work than the home or spending more of their time building relationships with work colleagues over family commitments. Another possible reason for the difference is that men tend to gain significance from their connection with friends so would prioritise socialising above helping out at home. Both these reasons result in the men in question feeling too exhausted at the end of the working day, feeling they have more important things to do at home than household tasks or even spending less time at home because of other perceived responsibilities. Of the other six fundamental needs we all share, in addition to satisfying his need for significance outside of the home, a man may also prioritise his need for comfort above that of contributing and helping out. Comfort is a base instinct and as such manifests itself in self-centred behaviour from your husband that you will naturally consider as selfish or thoughtless. 44 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

All this can lead to frustration and resentment, but rather than allowing these negative feelings to unintentionally reinforce the pattern of your husband getting away with their bad behaviour just because you want to avoid conflict or think things can’t get any better. Communication is key One of the most effective ways to begin to reach a solution is to first accept that at some point you have allowed behaviour you find unacceptable to continue without clear communication to your partner that it is severely compromising your happiness, and therefore your connection to him. Communication is key to increasing and maintaining a positive romantic connection with your partner. Upfront conversations are the foundation of good communication. If you want to gain the support of your husband without alienating him, you need to have clear and concise upfront conversations that are based on logic not emotions. Agree to make changes in both your behaviours and hold each other accountable. Here are my five top tips to having successful upfront conversations: 1. Make him your hero Men step up faster if they are not pushed but pulled towards a new way of being therefore it is important to make your husband feel needed by explaining that he needs to be your knight in shining armour who makes you feel valued and protected. In this way he can meet your needs and boost his ego at the same time. 2. Use humour to diffuse tension Instead of reacting negatively to an

action or comment that pushes your buttons, use humour to highlight an unhelpful behaviour and diffuse a potential argument. You will make it easier for changes in behaviour to happen by learning to laugh it off rather than taking things personally. 3. Set clear expectation. You need to set clear expectations so that your husband knows what is acceptable and unacceptable. Men are goal-orientated and work best with specifics so make it clear that if you want him home at a specific time and he has to work late he should give you as much notice as possible and not at the last minute. 4. Clearly communicate your needs Take one issue at a time and clearly explain your needs and how his behaviour makes you feel on that one issue. Keep things simple and don’t tackle all your issues in a single conversation. Change the subject at the end of this discussion so he knows you’ve moved on. 5. Explain things in his terms It is best to communicate using language and examples he will understand that relate back to his work or interests. For example, you could explain that like his favourite football team, you both need to work as a team to get the best results. Tackling your husband’s lazy behaviour might not seem like plain sailing at first but with the help of honest upfront communication and the right mindset you can navigate your way through your problems and work together as a team moving forward. Sloan Sheridan-Williams www.SloanSW.com

If you’re thinking about care, talk to an expert.

At Chiltern Grange Care Home we understand what families are faced with when considering care for a loved one. What type of care do they need? Will they be well looked after? Will they get a nutritious diet? Will there be enough activities for them? And most important of all, will they be happy?

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When you call us you will be talking to a real care expert, not just a call handler. Our care managers are regarded as amongst the best in the country – one of them was recently named Best Care Manager in the 2014 National Care Awards.

Dementia care

Whether you’re thinking about residential, nursing, dementia care or respite care we can give you the expert advice you need to give you peace of mind and to help you make the right decision.

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TEMPLE GOLF CLUB IS BEING REVITALISED

GAME GOLF £159.95 from gamegolf.com

Temple Golf Club redesigned its membership options last year and introduced a new Lifestyle membership. After six months the Club has attracted 70 new members and the affordable, flexible and family-friendly scheme for today’s golfer is proving a great success. Temple will now focus its energies on revitalising its already famous course and has two strategies for this: First, the Club is fortunate enough to count renowned golf architect Donald Steel amongst its friends and Donald has advised on plans to refresh a number of its holes. Temple is in good company as Donald has advised every single Open Championship venue.

Donald Steel Second, Temple has recruited Ben Kebby as the new Course Manager. Ben is a rising star with first class experience at Sunningdale and The Berkshire as well as a stint at Royal Melbourne. He has most recently been the Deputy Course Manager at Joyenval a 36 hole championship complex just west of Paris.

Ben, a perfectionist by nature, will define his time at Temple by “rediscovering the ethos of Willie Park Jnr, the original Temple course designer, by presenting an outstanding course with firm, fast and true greens with the ambition of Temple joining the top 100 golf courses in England”.

This wearable tracking device utilises on-board GPS technology to capture data as you play. By wearing the small unit on the hip and a tag on the end of each club, data is gathered with every shot, tracking trends and offering on-screen statistics of your progress. You can then use this data to play virtually, of course - against world golfing legends.

EWGY ROBO-PONG 540

Ben Keb

The Club believes that by bringing together Donald Steel’s extensive knowledge and sage advice with Ben Kebby’s passion and energy, the golfing experience at Temple will move to a new higher level. For more information on Temple’s Lifestyle membership call 01628 824795

ELITE Super Crono Mag Force Turbo Trainer Pack If you cycle as much for fitness factors as you do to get from A to B, then forget the great outdoors and the rainy misery that bring; put on the telly, and sit your commuting cycle astride this superb machine. Set it to one of five resistance levels and let the workout begin. £149.99 from www.decathlon.co.uk 46 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

One of the most fascinating sports to watch has to be table tennis or, to give it the name which has helped its recent rise in popularity, ping pong. Places to play have been popping up in locations all over the UK, and it's now a huge social occasion. To make sure you fit into this new hip scene, why not practice with this automatic ball launching machine. Set it to more difficult levels, and even play against it with friends. £370 from amazon.co.uk

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email: saramayne@btconnect.com Web: www.saramayne.com MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 47

MINUTES WITH .. MARK ADDY

HOW WAS IT TO BE BACK FOR SEASON 2OF ATLANTIS? It’s a slightly different show I think. They wrote season one for the Saturday tea-time slot, the Doctor Who audience, but it was on a bit later than that, and then the BBC decided it was going to stay in a later slot, so it needed to be written for that slightly different audience. I think it’s created a better show; it’s slightly more mature, it looks into things a bit deeper perhaps than series one did. And you could start watching series two without having seen series one, you’d still pick it up. HAVE YOU AND YOUR CO-STARS DEVELOPED GREAT CAMARADERIE ON SET? Yeah, we have a good time, which is useful if you’re doing something this long. You need to be able to do some messing about to be able to stay sane over that kind of time period. We spend seven months having breakfast, lunch and dinner together, as well as the working day, so you’ve got to get on and luckily we do.

managed to get it up and running at a time when everybody’s saving money left, right and centre.

WHAT HAS THE PUBLIC’S REACTION TO THE SHOW BEEN LIKE?

DO YOU FANCY TREADING THE BOARDS THERE?

They like it a lot. There’s nothing else really like it, not that I’ve seen. You have to remember it’s a British show done on a BBC budget, so it has a huge ambition in terms of what it wants to be and how it looks, and they’ve managed to create it on a relatively low budget.

You never know, it’d be close to home! I could get home every night, which would make a change!

YOU HAD SOME EXCELLENT ADDITIONS TO THE CAST FOR THE SECOND SERIES. IS IT IMPORTANT TO KEEP FRESHENING THINGS UP? Yeah, I think so. You’re telling stories that are expanding the whole time. That’s one of the joys for us as actors, we’ve got some tremendous guest stars coming in, and getting to work with them for a while is wonderful. It keeps it fresh for us and fresh for the audience. 300 STAR VINCENT REGAN IS ONE OF THOSE WHO CAME IN. ARE YOU INVOLVED IN HIS THEATRE IN EAST YORKSHIRE? Not involved, but I was at the opening night. It’s a great little theatre, it really is. I don’t know quite how he 48 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

YOU FILMED THE BBC DRAMA REMEMBER ME LAST YEAR, WHICH MUST HAVE BEEN AN EASY COMMUTE FOR YOU? Yeah, that was good - Huddersfield and Scarborough. It’s not often you get to be at home when you’re working, so that was nice. IT LOOKED AS IF IT WAS A GOOD PROJECT TO BE INVOLVED IN? Yeah, it was great. Yorkshire’s beautiful, and it was nice to see it looking so good on screen. WHAT IS IT THAT YOU LOOK FOR IN A ROLE? That’s an interesting question. I try to look for something that’s a little out of the ordinary really. The role in Remember Me, although he was a policeman, I thought that was the

least important fact about him. He was a bloke who’d lost his family and his mojo, and he was on the verge of losing his marbles. But with Atlantis, they said, ‘We want you to play Hercules’ and I said, ‘Are you sure you’ve got the right person?’ But there’s more to him than you expect, and that’s what I like about it. DO YOU HAVE ANY BURNING AMBITIONS? Not really. I look for parts and scripts that interest me and are a little bit different, where I feel like I could bring something to that project in whatever way. It’s always interesting and they’re always different, that’s the nice thing. You’re learning something new all the time. As long as you keep on learning... if you don’t learn anything from it, it’s probably time to stop! WHAT HAVE YOU GOT COMING UP IN 2015? We’re waiting to see whether we’re doing more Atlantis yet. Hopefully we are because the series is heading forwards and it’ll be interesting to see where they go with it. Atlantis series 2, part 1 is out now on DVD and Blu-ray

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MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 49

Thai Green Curry This recipe includes vegetables such as mushrooms, green beans, mange tout and/or red peppers and/or bamboo shoots depending on taste. David Rhys Price Serves 4 - 6 for a great Supper Dish

INGREDIENTS: 1kg Chicken thighs (skinned & boned)/Breast, and cut into bite size chunks 1 tablespoon of sunflower oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil 2 teaspoons garlic powder 1 tablespoon fish sauce (nam pla) 1 dessert spoon sea salt Juice of half lime 200ml coconut milk 12 button mushrooms (optional) Green Beans, cut into 2.5cm pieces (optional)/Mange Tout Red Pepper, cut into 2.5cm pieces (optional) Bamboo Shoots, cut into fine batons (optional) 2 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander 50 VIVID | JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2015

1 tablespoon chopped basil leaves for garnish For the green curry paste: 2 teaspoons coriander seeds 2 long red/green chillies de-seeded and halved 2 garlic cloves peeled and chopped 2 lemongrass stalks, (remove outer leaves) chopped finely 4 spring onions trimmed and sliced 25g peeled root ginger chopped (or galangal, if available) 3 kaffir lime leaves (dried/ fresh/frozen) 4 tablespoons chopped fresh coriander 2 tablespoons Thai fish sauce (nam pla) 1 tablespoon dark brown sugar Juice of half lime 2 teaspoons sea salt Freshly ground course black pepper 200ml coconut milk

METHOD: Curry paste 1. Dry fry the coriander seeds in

a small pan for one minute . 2. Using pestle and mortar crush the coriander seeds. 3. Transfer the seeds to a food processor, add the remaining ingredients. Blitz till all the ingredients are finely chopped and form a thick paste. Chicken 1. Heat the two oils in a medium to large wok, and then add the chopped chicken thighs/breast. Season with the sea salt, lime juice, fish sauce and garlic powder. 2. When the chicken is almost cooked through add the button mushrooms (optional) and fry for 2 minutes. 3. Add the coconut milk and coriander and simmer for 5 minutes 4. Add the green curry paste, simmer for further five minutes stirring at intervals. 5. Ladle the curry into bowls and garnish with chopped basil leaves SERVE WITH: your choice of rice sticky or plain.

Wine - Hot to Chill

As we move towards spring, we often spring clean our homes, and even our wardrobes. But when was the last time you spring-cleaned your wine rack? Are you still buying the same wine brands, grape varietals or blends you’ve been buying for years? If so, you may be missing out on the hottest new arrivals that not only deliver great value, but also pack a punch on the palate. Let us help you pick from the latest trends, try something new, and chill out with an altogether hotter glass of wine.

DECLUTTERING: Clear out space on your dusty wine rack. Out with the old and in with the new. Some wine really is worth aging, and will improve in the bottle. But, if you typically spend less than £10 a bottle and buy at the local supermarket, any Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc or Rosé that’s lain on your shelf or in your fridge for a while will likely be past it’s best

if it’s vintage is 2012 or before. Remember if your wine is from the southern Hemisphere (South Africa/Argentina/ New Zealand/Australia) the grapes are harvested around March so that wine is 6 months older than your French equivalent of the same age RESTOCKING: The hottest whites will see you through spring and into summer. Londoners have been going gaga over Picpoul de Pinet since last summer. (Pronounced: PickPool du PeeNay) It’s a white wine that truly expresses it’s sense of place, and that place is the South of France, by the seaside, near the Thau lagoo. Serve with a dish of mussels, and this lip smacking, lemony zinger will be right at home. It’s from the Languedoc region, home of value when it comes to France, so you’ll be able to find some decent examples at under a tenner, and it’s got enough weight to serve with your fish and chips! Groovy Grüvee, or Grüner Veltliner to give it it’s full name, is the Austrian wine that all selfrespecting London restaurants have added to their wine lists in the last year or two. Another dry, un-oaked white that balances crisp acidity with juicy citrus fruit and adds the complexity of white pepper, the odd floral note along with grapefruit and lemon. It’s got a lot going on, and will cheerfully accompany your green salad, seared scallops or just to keep you company. It’s not an airhead of a wine. Spend around £12-15 on this grape from the Kamptal or Wachau regions and you’ll discover a new best friend. If you can’t get enough of

Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc, you’re not alone. Sauvignon Blanc has been Britain’s biggest selling white for several years. But it seems that shipping wine 12,000 miles is not the most environmentally friendly option when we’ve got English Bacchus right here on our doorstep. English Sparkling Wine has been getting all the press over the last 2 years, but the dry white wine from the Bacchus grape is the answer to the eco-conscious Sauvignon Blanc drinker’s prayers. This wine brings you all the gooseberry goodness and makes a lovely aperitif or partner to a dressed crab or crumbly goat cheese just as well. My personal favourite comes from Kent’s Chapel Down vineyard, but if you staying local, there are softer versions available from the Thames Valley’s Brightwell Vineyards, Stanlake Park and Oaken Grove. Wait a month or two till the 2014 vintage is released as it is from one of the best years of late. Prices range from about £8 - £14 which is similar in pricing to the New Zealand varieties.. And the hottest red? If you’re looking for value, Spain’s Monastrell (known as Mourvèdre in France or Mataró in Australia) has evolved from is role as the M in a GSM blend (Grenache, Syrah, Mourvedre) to a single varietal that delivers everything from bright juicy fruity flavours in young versions, through to serious oaked gems that deliver leathery, tobacco and spice notes. Matching grilled pork, lamb or even charcuterie meats like salami, you won’t destroy it if you chill it. The Spanish do. And because it’s not yet achingly hip – you should be able to bag a decent one for around £8.50. Heather Harrison MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 51

Head Chef, Chris Wheeler, Stoke park, shares his

English Raspberry Soufflé with Cheesecake Ice Cream and Raspberry Sauce

Serves: 4

METHOD:

INGREDIENTS:

Raspberry Soufflé base 1. Place your Raspberry Puree into a pan with your sugar, bring to the boil. Then mix your Chambord and Corn Flour together. Once your puree has started to boil mix in your corn flour mixture and cook for 1 minute. 2. Once thickened leave to cool. Make sure you cover the top with cling film so that it doesn’t get a crust. 3. Soften some butter and using a pastry brush grease your ramekin in a bottom to top motion evenly around all the edges. 4. Pour in some caster sugar and roll it around the ramekin. Empty the excess sugar out and place it into the fridge. Soufflé 1. For the Soufflé, pre heat the oven to 190oc. 2. Weigh out 150g of the soufflé base, 100g of egg white and 35g of caster sugar. 3. Take a clean bowl and whisk your egg whites to a soft peak. Slowly add your caster sugar and whisk for 1 minute. Fold your egg white into the soufflé base until this is all incorporated. 4. Pipe into your ramekins and place in the oven for 10 minutes.

Raspberry Soufflé base 250g Raspberry Puree 500g Caster Sugar 18g Corn Flour 30ml Chambord Raspberry Liquor Soufflé 150 g of Soufflé Base (ingredients above) 100g Egg White 35 g Sugar Cheese cake ice-cream 200ml milk 100g caster sugar 300g Cream Cheese Garnish Biscuit Base 150g Digestive Biscuits 75g Melted Butter Raspberry Sauce 2 Punnets of Fresh Raspberries Juice of a quarter of a Lemon 50g Caster Sugar Dehydrated Raspberry Twirl 125g Raspberry Puree 25g Caster Sugar

52 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Cheese cake ice-cream 1. Place your milk and sugar into a pan and bring to the boil. Slowly pour on your cream cheese and whisk until smooth. 2. Place into the freezer and each hour beat with a wooden spoon until frozen and smooth (or put in an ice-cream machine). Biscuit Base Crush your digestive biscuits and combine with your melted butter. Raspberry Sauce Using a hand blender, blitz the Raspberries and Lemon together and pass through the chinois. Pour into a pan, add your Sugar and bring to the boil. Dehydrated Raspberry Twirl 1. Place all ingredients into a pan and reduce by half. 2. Place into the fridge to cool down. 3. Once cooled, using a pallet knife spread over greaseproof paper evenly. 4. Place into a pre heated over at 95oc for 8 hours to crispen up. TO PLATE - Place a small amount of the digestive mix on the plate. - Place one scoop of ice-cream on top. - Place the cooked soufflé next to it and serve your warm raspberry sauce on the side.

THREE OF THE BEST Eggy gadgets EGG Q-BER, £4.95

(prezzybox.com) This novelty tool turns eggs into perfect cubes, making them easier to hold onto when slicing. Boil and peel your egg, pop it in the gadget with a splash of oil, screw down the top and voila.

ALESSI CICO EGG CUP & SPOON,

£11.95 (www.houseoffraser.co.uk) Inject some fun into your boiled egg and solders with this cute little fellow, who has a salt castor cleverly hidden in his hat.

POACHPOD, £4.99 for two (www.lakeland.co.uk) If you struggle to make the perfect poached egg, you might like to try one of these silicone pods. Crack the egg into it, float it in boiling water, and once cooked, flip it inside out to release your neat and tidy result.

Vivid Magazine has teamed up with Marlow’s latest culinary destination Sindhu by Atul Kochhar. The latest restaurant from the Michelin-starred chef, which recently opened its doors in the luxury Macdonald Compleat Angler hotel is oﬀering one reader a meal for two from the tasting menu with matching wines. The menus at Sindhu are inspired by Atul’s love of traditional Indian cuisine, kept alight by his continuous research into ever-evolving regional dishes, combined with his dedication to using the finest British ingredients. The result is an innovative style of authentic modern Indian cuisine that is totally unique. So you’ll find deliciously distinctive creations such as Hiran ka Boti (venison saddle with cardamom and mace), Meen Moilee (wild sea bass with coconut moilee sauce) and Bathak Falliyan (Gressingham duck breast with three bean stew and coriander cress) to name but a few. All this in a beautifully designed space with breathtaking views across the Thames: The transformation of the restaurant took inspiration from the rivers of India and their connection to culture and life. The result is an impeccable fusion of complementary colours. Set against the backdrop of its peaceful riverside location, the splashes of golden saﬀron across the plush furniture, striking tributary-style carpet and vibrant canvases are blended with subtle muted tones to create a comfortable, welcoming space that is both elegant and eclectic – the perfect setting for Atul’s sophisticated cuisine.

To win please tell us the name of Atul Kochhar’s restaurant in Mayfair to reservations@sindhurestaurant.co.uk by 12th April 2015. T&C’s: Prize must be redeemed by 30 September 2015. Excludes Fridays and Saturdays.

01628 405 405

info@sindhurestaurant.co.uk | www.sindhurestaurant.co.uk | @SindhuMarlow Sindhu by Atul Kochhar, Macdonald Compleat Angler, Marlow Bridge Lane, Marlow, Bucks, SL7 1RG MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 53

A Very Good Morning Vietnam “Honestly,” beams my guide from a suspiciously bad-looking tunnel. “It’s not that bad down here.” I’m not convinced. So he tries another tack. “They’ve made these tunnels twice as big as they were back in the war. They’re tourist-sized.” While unsure whether I’m offended or encouraged, I do at least know that I now have no choice but to edge my tourist-sized hulk down into the dark, cramped, muddy hole - and not complain about how dark, cramped and muddy it is. Because the guide’s right, this maze of Cu Chi Tunnels, 70km northwest of Ho Chi Minh City, might be unbearably humid, feel hauntingly claustrophobic, and smell like damp mould, but this is the sanitised version; the Disneyesque take on what, more than forty years ago, in the midst of the bitter Vietnam War (or the American War, as the Vietnamese rightly call it) can only have been unimaginable hell.

Tran Quoc Pagoda 54 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

PAPhoto/thinkstockphotos

Even those not particularly wellversed in Vietnamese history will have heard about the infamous Cu Chi Tunnels, a 200km underground maze of deep, airless, water pipe-sized holes, sometimes three ‘storeys’ and 15ft deep, where Viet Cong soldiers lived, fought and hid from American and South Vietnamese troops. It’s not the worst thing here either; there’s an exhibition of the infamous torture traps the Viet Cong used: leaves covering a bed of foot-long bamboo spikes, and a rolling set of spiked poles ready to snare a soldier up to his waist. Even today, surrounded by chattering tourists and behind the safety of a wooden fence, they make your blood run cold. A few hours later, back in Ho Chi Minh City, comes the War Remnants

Da Nang exhibition, where I find myself in front of the original version of ‘that’ photo - Nick Ut ‘s Napalm Girl. Needless to say, it’s just as poignant in real life as all the times you’ve seen it in newspapers and books. This year marks the 40th anniversary of when the 20-year battle ended, and the Cu Chi tunnels and War Remnants Museum are reminders of the pain and suffering endured. But a bigger part of this warm, energetic, swarming country is also here to tell you a very different story. Because four decades on from that civil war that threatened to bring the nation to its knees, Vietnam has never stood taller. Last year, the country received a record number of visitors, and it still rates highly on every ‘destination hotlist’ for 2015. A number of fashionable new hotels, such as the A La Carte Hotel in Da Nang, about half-way up the country’s coastline and an hour’s flight from Ho Chi Minh City, are also an indication of exciting growth. As I sit on a terrace, looking out to the beach-lined bay and the pulsing city with clanking cranes building sleek new places to stay, it’s hard to imagine that Da Nang is where the American troops had one of their biggest air bases during the war. “It’s changed quite a lot,” my guide shrugs. A lot, but, thankfully, not completely. For all its post-war reconstruction and surging tourism, Vietnam is in no hurry

Marble Mountain, Da Nang to surrender everything to progress. Hoi An, half an hour’s drive from the bustling Da Nang, was once a major 16th century trading centre and is now a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site. With its low, tiled houses, ancient markets and candle-lit night lanterns, it’s a very pretty tourist mecca. Yet an array of backpacker bars and trinket-selling street stalls reveal it’s embraced the 21st century. But hop on a small, old fishing boat, and half an hour later - via a few excited, potentially boat-toppling children and a sweeping river view and you’re in a tiny village, seemingly untouched by modern times, with smiling people gently pulling in fishing nets and craftsmen making clay pots with nothing but a footpress and the heat of the sun. Similarly, not far away, there’s Tra Que Vegetable Village, where you can try some century-old farming techniques for yourself. To be honest, at first, it looks easy - just don a Non La conical hat, watch the experts rake furrows in the ground and follow suit. Farmers explain how to sow seeds, cover them up, and water them. But it’s a careful, gentle, ancient craft that I quickly realise I have no hope of emulating. My effort is a total failure - one extremely well-soaked pea shoot and four lines of extremely thirsty ones - but as with everything in this country, it’s greeted with a hearty smile. In fact, throughout Vietnam, hospitality is legendary. It’s something I notice on a family-run river cruise in the province

of Ben Tre. We’re kept refreshed with a constant supply of fresh fruit and cold flannels, and whenever we stop off at an array of brick and rice-noodle making villages, we’re forever met with herbal tea and offers of keo dua (local coconut sweets). In addition to the unswervingly friendly people, Vietnam is blessed with achingly beautiful landscapes, centuries of historical buildings and madly vibrant cities. There are long, tree-lined rivers and spawning rice fields, lovingly tended temples, pagodas and royal palaces, and the loud, moped-frenzied, brilliant cities of Ho Chi Minh and Hue. Equally remarkable are the country’s often-overlooked beaches. Neighbouring Thailand has somewhat stolen any chance of Vietnam winning the South-East Asia beach mantle, but it shouldn’t be the case. A fine example of the beach properties found here is Fusion Maia Resort in Hoi An. It’s the epitome of luxury, with private pool villas, two free spa treatments a day, and morning yoga by the beachside infinity pool. Down on the beach, where you can take breakfast or a lantern-lit BBQ dinner, it’s even more perfect. I enjoy sitting quietly on the sand and watching the bustling fishing boats, while a group of local children play football a few hundred yards away. It’s a scene offering a vibrant stillness; a feeling of gentle, ambling calm alongside a joyous energy. And for me, that’s what Vietnam is all about.

TRAVEL FACTS Nel Staveley was a guest of Hayes & Jarvis (01293 735 831; hayesandjarvis.com) who offers a nine-night multi-centre, holiday to Vietnam (visiting Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and Hue) from £1,749pp, saving up to £432pp. Offer includes some meals, all transfers and return international flights from London Heathrow. Based on an October 6, 2015 departure. An excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels by speedboat costs £66pp; Life as a farmer in Tra Que Vegetable Village costs £62pp

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 55

Hidden Gem Austria Local Maidenhead resident Sanadra Lens and her family were looking for a family skiing holiday and were swayed by the Editors of Alpensicht review of Brandnertal, voting it the best family friendly resort in Austria with five stars, worth discovering with great slopes, very little queuing time at lifts and a very good snow safety record. Brandnertal is a small picturesque village, five kilometres from the Swiss Border and eight kilometres east of the border with the principality of Leichtenstein, with a well established ski centre in the Brandner Valley. Established in the 1950’s the resort has been popular with Germans and Swiss having been described as a ‘hidden gem’ and recently British ski enthusiast have been making their way to the resort making to enjoy what it has to offer. A year round destination, Brandnertal offers outstanding facilities, great value for money, a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful scenery whether you visit winter or summer. The Ski Season is from December to April and boasts 55km of well-groomed piste between 890m and 2000m for both skiers and snowboarders alike. While the summer months offer outdoor activities such 56 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

golf, mountain biking, hiking and tennis. During the summer, there is the Silvreta Classic Car Rally and the annual Schubert and Bregenz Music Festival featuring opera performances from a floating stage on Lake Constance for a holiday with a difference. Brandnertal has many hotel options, for both families and couples, including several affordable 4 star hotels, a good choice of cheaper hotel properties as well as the traditional family run pensions and plenty of self catering apartments. Sandra chose to book directly with the family owned, Walliserhof Hotel and by booking scheduled flights directly to Zurich it meant that she had plenty of choice as to the time the family left and arrived and all for just under £150 each. They decided to catch the train from Zurich, not only the spectacular views but because children travel for free. The journey takes approximately two hours and takes you into the town of Blundenz, a short 15 minute ride to Brandnertal. The views from the train were breath taking – crystal turquoise lakes, snow capped mountains along with majestic alpine landscapes. Arriving at the four star Hotel Walliserhof , Sandra and her family

were met by the Berthold Meyer family, and discovered the hotel was full of charm and warmth. The hotel combined modern architecture with traditional hospitality and impressive mountain views and they were pleasantly surprised to find out that the hotel was between two main lifts for the Brandnertal ski area that were both within ten minutes walking from the font door of the hotel. Their rooms were fresh and elegantly designed with modern bathrooms, flat screen televisions, free wi-fi, fluffy bathrobes and balconies with views of the mountains. Before exploring the rest of the hotel Sandra and the family were side tracked by the smell of the mid-afternoon tea and along with rosy cheeked skiers, returning from the slopes, they enjoyed cheese toasties and hot chocolate. The hotel offered some other great facilities such as the warm luxury spa, a beautiful swimming pool, sauna, wellness rooms and a Zen garden where after a hard day skiing you can relax by a mountain stream. During their stay Sandra and her family involved themselves in many of the activities that the region has to offer, but were delighted when the children decided to go to ski school, where they found the instructors spoke excellent English along with several other languages so they can converse with visitors throughout the year. The children and adults alike had great fun with the highly trained ski instructors, children aged 8 and under ski free at all times and there are discounts for older children and teenagers up to 18 With fourteen lifts of varying types, including cable cars and chair-lifts,

there are 22km of piste for beginners, 30km for intermediates and around 3 km for the advanced along with the opportunity to go off-piste all over the ski area and villages. The longest run is from Loischkopf to Burserberg at 5km, and is one of the longest in the region. Queues are rare as the resort is located at the head of the valley, so there is no through traffic and the only sounds you can hear are those of other skiers or après skiing. Breakfast is available at the hotel everyday until 11am and you can indulge in freshly cooked eggs, home made waffles or a continental option, followed by lunch, high tea and a five course evening meal, with a choice of over one thousand wines. If you don’t want to eat at the hotel, the Brandnertal resort offers many restaurants, most of which are geared towards families. With most of the restaurants serving traditional Austrian fayre along with Italian dishes there is something for everyone. Despite its compact size Brandnertal has a reputation for lively nights, including sleigh rides or the traditional themed folk heritage evenings in log cabins, starting as soon as the lifts close with the traditional five o’clock tea. If you want a break from the skiing you’ll never be bored as there is plenty to do such as swimming, indoor golf, tennis, horse-riding, the cinema, beauty centres, ice-skating, dog sledging and snow shoeing to mention a few. Shopping is available locally as well in nearby Blundenz, which is home to the world famous Suchard chocolate and Fohrenburger beer Company. The local tourist office can offer more information on what’s on and where to go during your stay.

Sandra and family had a wonderful holiday filled with skiing, many other sporting activities as well as the opportunity to relax in The Walliserhof Hotel’s Spa. They are looking forward to going back in the Summer, to experience all the outdoor Sports on offer and to exploring the area a little more, such as Lake Lunersee one of the most beautiful lakes in Austria. Whether you are a family or a couple looking for a ski weekend, snowboard break or a short ski holiday, Brandnertal and the Hotel Walliserhof are perfectly placed as the resort can be reached from four airports, by road and rail.

Lake Lunersee

TRAVEL INFORMATION: Air: To Zurich - British Airways (www.ba.com), Easyjet (www.easyjet.com) and Swiair (www.swiss.com). To Friedrichshafen - Flymywings (www. flymywings.com). To Innsbruck (Easyjet (www.easyjet.com). Brandnertal is 150km drive from Zurich airport, 145 km from Innsbruck airport and 90km from Friedrichshafen airport. Hotel website www.walliserhof.at for details of packages available. Rail: The railway station of Bludenz, on the main Innsbruck line, is just 11km from Brand. Regular trains run from Zurich to Bludenz.

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 57

REBECCA FERGUSON

“Lady Sings - The Blues”

It’s hard to think of any other singer of her generation, in fact of any generation, who would have the talent to carry this off. The amazing Rebecca Ferguson, whose voice has been compared to Aretha Franklin, Nina Simone and Dusty Springfield, has reached for the stars with her third album ‘Lady Sings the Blues’ which is released by RCA Records on March 9. Having enjoyed Rebecca Ferguson’s voice and music from when she began at the X-factor, Vivid were extremely lucky to catch up with her just prior to the release of her third album – “Lady sings the Blues”, a tribute to Billie Holiday. This is Rebecca’s third album and is released 100 years after the birth 58 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

of Billie Holliday. It follows on from after her highly successful first album ‘Heaven’, which sold over a million copies and her second album ‘Freedom’ saw the praise continue. The single “Get Happy”, was released on the 2nd March and is the first single from the album, which is a soulful

and fitting tribute to the late Billie Holiday. The album was recorded at the famous Capital Studios in Los Angeles, which has seen many great artists such as Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, Ray Charles and the legendary Ella Fitzgerald record many of their best work. The album has been produced

by the famous Troy Miller, who previously worked with Amy Winehouse, Rumer, Dexys Midnight Runners, Chaka Khan. Having listened to this new album we couldn’t agree more than with the review featured in “Metro”, “it’s not hard to be struck by the quality of Rebecca Ferguson’s voice: smoky, steeped in emotion and somehow more seasoned than her years”. Rebecca has come through many highs and some lows in her career to date, learning many hard lessons about the music industry. Rebecca now exudes a quiet confidence and her third album is the album of her life. But, more tellingly, it’s also the album of someone else’s life, someone whose voice and career propelled her to legendary status, whose tragic story is known to every music lover, someone who truly is a legend. HOW HAS YOUR LIFE CHANGED SINCE THE X-FACTOR? My life is completely different and not somewhere I could ever have seen myself. Having watched the show before entering I knew that I wanted to come in the top 3 and that in itself was a challenge. I am now in a happy place after a few years of turmoil as I found out the hard way that the music industry wasn’t always just about the music. I questioned everything in my creative and professional life. Having been in front of millions and being thrown into the spotlight, you just can’t prepare yourself for these changes and you need to change and become a different more mature person, someone who starts to understand themself and the world they have been thrown into – it’s not easy, but 6 years on I am now happy with the place I find myself in. I am now clear headed as to where I want to be and I’m having fun with it. ARE YOU STILL IN CONTACT WITH ANYONE FROM THE X-FACTOR? I was but life has become so busy with family, the travelling and the recording that I have now lost the contact. It’s a shame as we really had a bond at the time as we were all going through the same experience of being thrown into the limelight when really we were all, and still are today, ordinary people with a dream ARE YOU SURPRISED WITH THE SUCCESS YOU HAVE HAD FROM NOT WINNING THE X-FACTOR AND DO YOU THINK THIS WAS MORE TO YOUR ADVANTAGE? I always knew I would have a career but not to what extent. I thought like many I would find success initially and then the fame would wane, really nothing like it is today. The X-Factor is a weird experience where you understand the need to be judged but it does completely open up your life to the public and turn it around. Becoming famous really does take time to adjust to, it took me a few years to accept these changes and mature. You and to understand and accept that your life is no longer your own, but the interest of the public no matter how trivial. I don’t think not winning makes any difference as you are still in the public eye and I believe that am now in a place where I have a clear head and can move forward with my ambitions.

being a ‘Mum’. I love having the kids with me and they travel with me when time allows but they are all settled in school and I don’t want to disrupt this too much as it is important. My youngest being only 4 months old is usually with me and is often backstage. My family is very much a part of my life and I do as much as I can to be part of that and around them. I am lucky because most of my work at the moment is in London so I’m enjoying the time with them. We all love travelling together and we all love the USA, particularly California where I recorded the new album and would love to buy a property there some day. WHAT MADE YOU WANT TO RECORD BILLY HOLLIDAY? I love recording my own songs but I’ve also wanted to record others, particularly artists like Billie Holiday and Aretha Franklin as I grew up listening to their music, which I just love. I was only saying to Troy, my producer, the other day that I really believe I have found my niche as I am so comfortable singing these iconic songs. WHAT ARE YOUR FAVOURITE SONGS AND WHY? I love “Embraceable You”, as I was pregnant with my daughter at the time and it all felt so special. But when performing live I love “Fine & Mellow” and “My Man” as the band and I have great fun on stage with these songs as they have so much meaning and are just great fun to perform. WE NOTICE THAT YOU ONLY HAVE LIVE DATES FOR FEBRUARY AND MARCH, WILL YOU BE DOING ANY MORE? Yes , we are planning to do more dates as we disappointed many fans who couldn’t get tickets and so are looking into more dates for the UK. We have loved being on stage with the new music and the reaction of the fans so we are looking forward to arranging new dates so more can see the show. WHAT’S NEXT? To extend the tour dates and we are also planning to travel to Germany, where I have an upcoming promo tour. There will be a lot happening this year promoting the new album and performing to new fans and we are also hoping to travel to China this year. I also can’t wait as I have some holiday in May, I have booked out the time but don’t know where I am going yet but just can’t wait to spend time with the kids and get some R&R. It was lovely to talk to Rebecca and we wish her all the best for 2015.

HOW DO YOU MAINTAIN A WORK/FAMILY BALANCE WITH A YOUNG FAMILY? It is hard and I have to make conscious decisions around my recording and travel commitments but also to be there for my children. I now have 3 children ranging in age from 4 moths to 10 and unless I have to leave them behind I am always there at the beginning of the day to take them to school and at end of the day with homework and really just MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 59

A Good Read ... Towards the Horizon by J. R. Ashley (£12.99) J.R. Ashley has written a varied and very personal collection of poems, all of which were entirely composed after he became blind in later life. These contemporary poems are the work of a man who because of his blindness defines himself as an observer on society. As he says, ‘I see better when my eyes are shut, when everyday matters become less dominant.’ Some of his poems are short and snappy, others are longer, thoughtful compositions. They range from the witty and the whimsical, Saving a Lady by Barry Johnson (£9.99) The fourth in a fast-paced series of British thrillers Jake Robinson has been living the good life – a safe if frustrating job and an illicit liaison with a beautiful woman – but all that is about to change as he is recalled to the Special Section of MI5. Once again, he will take up his place in the elite team that dirty their hands in the waters that all other authorities deny exist, and put his life at risk in the name of justice. Following their perilous escape from Bolivia, Sister Veronica has been abducted and Sister Theresa is in danger. Jake is committed to ensuring their safety, but now there are two contracts out on his life. Jake has to negotiate the labyrinth of secrets and lies on his own side before he can

to the nostalgic and the wistful; from acerbic statements of political opinion to very personal observations on old age. He writes about the glories of the natural world, with the keen eye of memory. He gives insights into what it is like to be blind, and contemplates love and loneliness, and the eternal question of the meaning of life. Memories of his youth are there, and the passing of time is very much a recurring theme. This is the author’s second collection of poetry and is available from 26th March.

even begin to understand his role in the case. With deadly bureaucracy and self-interest infecting every movement he and his team make, it is impossible to know who to trust. Why is the Home Secretary risking his career being involved, and what exactly is his relationship with the Bolivians and the two Sisters? The fast-paced, fourth book in the thrilling Jake Robinson series uniting characters from the first three books in a race to save Sister Theresa. Will appeal to fans of Ian Fleming. Available 30th April.

Cavy Crusades - A Woodland Adventure by Paula York (£7.99) Follow nine abandoned guinea pigs as they embark on a journey to find a new home Meet Bamber, Teazel, Beechy, Tully, Florence, a ferocious storm, a hungry fox and any Matchstick, Domino, Marigold and Hetty – nine number of other seemingly insurmountable abandoned guinea pigs (or cavies) bound for obstacles along the way to Cavy Haven. a new life on the other side of the forest. Will they make it? And if they do, Trekking through the woods is no stroll in will they be allowed in? the park for this intrepid but vulnerable crew, Available 26th March though, and on the way they have to rely on • Perfect for children who love animals. their woodland friends Cyril the squirrel, Robin • Will appeal to children aged between 6–9 years. and a host of other kindly and brave creatures as they encounter a vicious cat, a scary swamp, • Featuring 10 charming b&w illustrations

We will be giving away one copy of each of the books featured. For your chance to win one of these fabulous books, please visit www.vividtitles.co.uk/competitions by 12th April 2015 BOOK GUILD

i ld Ch

Fic t

ion

The books on this page are from Book Guild Publishing

To order, please call 01202 665432 (weekdays only)

n’s re

PUBLISHING

or visit www.bookguild.co.uk to view our other titles

60 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Stars Your

MARCH 2015

in March

Aries:

March 21 - April 20 The powerful Venus/Mars alignment in your sign brings your personal charisma to fabulous new heights this month. The Maverick planet Uranus is also involved in this planetary set up, be prepared for exciting or sudden changes in your life. The Solar eclipse and Equinox both make the 20th a very important day.

Taurus:

April 21 - May 21 Venus, your planetary ruler, is in close alignment with feisty Mars at the start of the month. You may encounter unexpected setbacks and delays, take it easy - it won’t last long. The celestial events of the 20th should bring those breakthrough moments that you have been waiting for.

Gemini:

May 22 - June 22 A spectacular alignment of the Sun and the planet Neptune highlight the career angle of your chart this month, allowing scope for creative thinking. Mercury, your ruler, enters mystical Pisces on the 13th, a cherished vision or a dream can now successfully be put into action.

Cancer:

June 23 - July 23 The full moon in Virgo on the 5th puts all forms of communication and interaction into the spotlight. This is a good time for professional relationships to run more harmoniously so put your main focus on career matters and ambitions. Exciting new ideas can boost your personal objectives.

Leo:

July 24 - August 23 Funds and assets are in the spotlight this month as the Sun/Neptune configuration bring financial matters to a head. The first half of March is particularly exciting as lucky Jupiter in your sign contacts unpredictable Uranus. You need to go with your intuition as interesting offers come your way.

Virgo:

August 24 - September 23 The full moon in your sign on the 5th opens the door to exciting new opportunities in the financial sector of your chart. Your personal charisma is running at a high level, be sure to maximise your potential with effective communication and use your powers of persuasion.

Libra:

September 24 - October 23 Venus, your ruler, is in close configuration with the powerful and warrior like Mars. Personal effectiveness and physical energy is now at a premium; you’ll be amazed at how productive you can be this month. Don’t miss any opportunity, follow your heart and pursue your ambitions

March may well turn out to be a turbulent and volatile month. The heavens are in battle mode starting with Mars, the warrior planet, in excitable and impulsive Aries. Mars aligns with unpredictable Uranus on the 11th and the final Pluto/ Uranus stand-off completes on the 17th. These aspects stir up passions and the need for freedom from repression; they will most likely show themselves globally by igniting the flames of rebellion. Mercury, the planet of communication, moves into gentle Pisces on the 13th, hopefully bringing a more spiritual and humanitarian outlook to world problems. Venus, the love planet, moves into Taurus on the 17th highlighting an awareness of the joys of spring and the urge to go out and enjoy nature. The full moon is in Virgo on the 5th and the new moon Solar eclipse and the Spring Equinox both fall on the 20th..

Capricorn:

December 23 - January 19 Your home and domestic life are the focus of the month as elements of your personal life keep you preoccupied. Try to avoid misunderstandings and disagreements, particularly around the 11th as fiery Mars in Aries contacts the volatile and unpredictable Uranus.

Scorpio:

Aquarius:

October 24 - November 22 The radiant Sun and mystical Neptune are highlighting the love and romance sector of your chart. Creative talent is also favoured, the more you express yourself the happier you will be. The new moon and the spring equinox on the 20th both bring up some exciting new opportunities.

January 20 - February 19 With five planets occupying the financial and communication areas of your chart, this could prove to be a very exciting month. Significant optimism means that you can forge ahead with your personal ambition; interesting opportunities and new contacts will appear from unexpected quarters.

Sagittarius:

Pisces:

November 23 - December 22 Venus and Mars are cuddling up in the love and romance sector of your chart this month. This is an exceptionally dynamic time and you can make the most of a powerful surge of selfconfidence. After the Pisces new moon and the equinox on the 20th unexpected contacts bring good news your way.

February 20 - March 20 The three planet line-up in your financial sector means that a review is now long overdue. Mars, Venus and Uranus are all in Aries and they demand that you look at things from an entirely new perspective. The 20th is a key date for you to welcome in innovative and beneficial change.

Visit www.VividTitles.co.uk For how you can navigate your way to success in April Christine Chalkin has an International client base and all her consultations are available in person, by telephone or Skype. Contact Christine at www.restyleyourlife.co.uk | Christine@restyleyourlife.co.uk | Telephone: 07813 483549

MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 61

FACTS AT A GLANCE Mercedes-Maybach S600, £167,000 Engine: 6.0-litre V12 petrol unit producing 523bhp and 612lb/ft Transmission: Sevenspeed automatic driving all the rear wheels Performance: Top speed 155mph, 0-62mph in 5.0 seconds Economy: 24.1mpg combined Emissions: 274g/km of CO

Mercedes Maybach S600 WHAT’S NEW?: The Maybach name is back, and this time it means business. The old standalone Maybach was flawed from the very beginning, built as it was on a platform old enough to have been shared with the Ark. But what you see here isn’t a Maybach: it’s a Mercedes-Maybach. It’s the new flagship Mercedes S-Class, built under a double-barrelled name that could, if consumer demand is there, mirror the Mercedes-AMG badge with multiple models atop various ranges. AMG cars are built for high-end luxury and giggles, but the Mercedes-Maybach is all about comfort and exceptional indulgence. LOOKS AND IMAGE: It’s a long old thing, adding another 20cm between the wheels compared to the long-wheelbase S-Class. So no, it’s not short of legroom. The roof line is higher and stays that way for longer, the rear doors are a different length and there are small ‘double-M’ badges on the C-pillars. The Force is strong with the finest S-Class, and always has been. Apparently customers wanted more exclusivity and even more of the stuff that makes the S-Class such a stalwart at the top of its class, so Mercedes has combined the famous badge with another one to form the new standard-bearer. Where the old Maybach had image problems, 62 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

its spiritual successor has big-time pedigree - albeit in a less showy way.

“If this car was a ... Vineyard it would be one of the Champagne region’s finest: magnificent to behold and full of rich bounties” SPACE AND PRACTICALITY: Nit-pickers will note that part of the boot is taken up by the fridge unit, but being able to keep your champagne chilled is clearly far more important. To drink it there are two silver-plated champagne flutes in a fold-down tray between the two rear seats - but only if you specify the £7,200 First Class rear seat setup. There’s enough legroom to allow your St Bernards to curl up at your feet, and they’ll be comforted by the standard luxury lamb’s wool floor mats that replicate an expensive living room feel. You’re actually meant to take your shoes off to appreciate it (and it’s totally worth it). BEHIND THE WHEEL: To be frank, few owners will actually drive it themselves, but if they did they’d be astonished at how relentlessly fast it is thanks to a 530-horsepower V12 engine. Refinement and comfort in any seat is amazing, with the softest leathers and seats that, in the rear, can give you six different types of back or shoulder

massage. Six! And don’t forget seven colours of ambient lighting, of course. Heating, cooling and up to 43.5 degrees of backrest tilt are also rather nice, but it’s the leg rest that steals the show. Hold a button down and the front passenger seat moves forwards, the leg rest rises and you eventually find yourself as comfy as if you were in your own reclining armchair at home. Probably comfier. All the toys you’d expect on the King Among S-Classes are standard. Go forth and meddle. VALUE FOR MONEY: When you look at what you get, £167,000 is a steal. Bear with me on this. The big double-M is built as well as a Bentley but has more technology and is arguably even better to drive. The only thing it lacks is the statement-making looks of a RollsRoyce, but not everyone wants those. WHO WOULD BUY ONE?: Media moguls, Mafia kingpins, ultraexclusive chauffeurs and more will all want to get their hands on a MercedesMaybach, although only 100 or so will sell in the UK every year. Any S-Class is a brilliant luxury car, but the new maestro is a bit special. Below-theradar on the outside but above all but the loftiest of expectations, this is the sober thinker’s Rolls-Royce Ghost. THIS CAR SUMMED UP IN A SINGLE WORD: Impressive Matt Kimberley

CRYPTIC Crossword 2

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ACROSS 1 See 18 Down. 3. Track providing two methods of transport (8) 8. From the lake we refilled this (4) 9. They are used for heating basic materials (8) 11. Troop leaders scorn teachers (5-7) 13. Not exactly eighteen holes! (6) 14. The sort of mate that can be relied on (6) 17. Unsuitable abodes for hibernators? (6-6) 20. Not in favour of presenting problems after work (8) 21. Give a hand to a Verdi composition (4) 22. Love song composed about the present time (8) 23. Formerly found in a rehabilitation centre (4) DOWN 1. He supplies material for broadcasting (8) 2. Decidedly shaky, musically speaking (7) 4. Nothing in a place to live on the water (6) 5. This restricts the learner to singly copy (10) 6. Proprietor to make an admission with some hesitation (5) 7. Rush to frustrate (4) 10. Man soon set to become a builder (5-5) 12. Does it depict the waters near a headland? (8) 15. Obtains a different form of defence (7) 16. Was active on a pressing occasion (6) 18 & 1Ac. Superior dentures for aristocratic cliques! (5,4) 19. They produce fuel records (4) MARTIN ADAMS:MARTIN ADAMS.qxd 13/04/2010 10:31 Page 1

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O u t & Ab o u t A Comprehensive Guide to What’s on in your local area. in&around Marlow, Maidenhead, Henley, Cookham & Bourne End If you would like your event added, please contact us at Contact@VividMag.co.uk March

06: ‘Lenten Lunches’ by the TWA – Supporting the Developing World, Pugin Hall, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Street, 12:00-14:00 – homemade soup (4 choices) plus fresh tea or coffee, £5. 06: Women’s World Day of Prayer at All Saints Church, 10:30 all welcome, Praying for The Bahamas. 07: ‘Family Fun Day’ at Cliveden - have lots of fun as you help us make charcoal, clearing woodland and toasting marshmallows, 10:30-15:00 for ages 6+ to book call - 01628 605069. 09: ‘Boutique Cinema- ‘Pride’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (Due to popularity it is advisable to book your seat in advance: 01628 488404. 10: Marlow & District Horticultural Society “A Year on the Plot” - speaker Mick Poultney at Liston Hall, 20:00. 12: ‘Monthly Tea Dance’ by the Marlow Community Association, 14.00-16.00, Liston Hall. 12: ‘Vegetable Garden Workshop’ - join one of our Gardeners in Cliveden for a workshop all about vegetables and our wonderful Walled Garden, free event but normal admission fees apply, 11:00-12:30 to reserve your place call 0844 249 1895. 12: Marlow Archaeology Society “Excavations at Heathrow’s Terminal 5” by Ken Welsh” at Garden Room, Liston Hall, 20:00, £4. 13: ‘Comedy Night’ - new acts for 2015 & the best from 2014 provided by KC Comedy Club at Great Marlow School, Bobmore Lane, 19:00-23:00 over 18’s only, £10, deadline for ticket purchases 6th March, comedynight@fogms.co.uk. 13: ‘Lenten Lunches’ by the TWA – Supporting the Developing World, Pugin Hall, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Street, 12:00-14:00 – homemade soup (4 choices) plus fresh tea or coffee, £5. 13: ‘Tiny Talk Time – How Does your Garden Grow’’ at Wycombe Museum, special time for under 5’s including stories, trails and craft activities, 10:30-11:30 or 13:15-14:15, £2 per

child, to book call 01494 421895. 15: ‘Hands-on-Science’ a lively afternoon of scientific fun and activities for the curious and inquisitive, whatever your age, at Wycombe Museum, Priory road, part of A British Science Week, free drop-in 14:00-16:30. 15: ‘Mother’s Day’ - celebrate Mother’s Day by bringing your mum to Cliveden for free. Treat her to a free wine tasting running from 12:00-15:00 (while stocks last) – 01628 605069. 16: ‘Boutique Cinema- ‘Fury’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (Due to popularity book your seat in advance: 01628 488404. 19: ‘The Four Seasons – Eccentric London Part 2’ - talk by Alan Copeland at Liston hall, 14:30. 19: ‘Lucy Young on life as Mary Berry’s Assistant’ - talk - 10.30, WI Hall, cookham Dean, Tickets £15 to incl. coffee & lunch. Barbara 01628 476512 20: ‘Lenten Lunches’ by the TWA – Supporting the Developing World, Pugin Hall, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Street, 12:00-14:00 – homemade soup (4 choices) plus fresh tea or coffee, £5. 20: Marlow Recital Society presents a Friday evening Piano Recital by ‘Mikhail Shilyaev’ at Vine House, 9 Glade Road, 19:30, £15 (includes interval glass of wine) – 01628 482299. 21: The Chiltern Camerata, Conductor Sam Laughton, with the Camerata Consort perform J.S. Bach’s Mass in B minor. All Saints’ Parish Church, Church Street, High Wycombe, HP13 6RF, 7.30 pm (doors open 6.45 pm) Tickets (unreserved) £12 (£10 concessions). Under 18s: free admission from local tourist information offices. www. chiltern-camerata.org.uk 21+22: ‘Basket Making Weekend Course’ at Wycombe Museum, join Christine Brewster, contemporary basket maker, for this popular two day workshop and make your own traditional English willow basket that you can use in years to come. No previous experience required, all materials provided, bring your own lunch, £60 to book call 01494 421895.

23: ‘Boutique Cinema- ‘The Judge’, screening starts at 20.00 with a prefeature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (Due book your seat in advance: 01628 488404. 24: ‘The Four Seasons – ‘The British Museum Trip’ for members only, but only £5 a year to become a member call 01628 484528 to join. 26: ‘Archaeology in Marlow – Discovering Dorchester on Thames: the History and Archaeology of a Thames-side Romana - British Town’ at Liston Hall, 20:00, £4. 26: ‘Vegetable Garden Workshop’ - join one of our Gardeners in Cliveden for a workshop all about vegetables and our wonderful Walled Garden, free event but normal admission fees apply, 11:00-12:30 to reserve your place call 0844 249 1895. 27: ‘Lenten Lunches’ by the TWA – Supporting the Developing World, Pugin Hall, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Street, 12:00-14:00 – homemade soup (4 choices) plus fresh tea or coffee, £5. 27: ‘Tiny Talk Time – Let’s Go fly a Kite’’ at Wycombe Museum, special time for under 5’s including stories, trails and craft activities, 10:3011:30 or 13:15-14:15, £2 per child, to book call 01494 421895. 28: ‘Marlow Transition Town Community Market’ - local crafts and produce, refreshments available at Liston Hall, 09:30-13:00 28 Mar-12 April: ‘Egg Hunt’ at Wycombe Museum, search the Museum and gardens for the hidden eggs to win a chocolate prize, £1.50, drop in between 10:00-16:30 28 Mar-12 April: ‘Easter Egg Hunt’ at River & Rowing Museum, Henley, follow Easter Bunny’s trail, solve a puzzle and enjoy a mini Easter Egg! Free with admission. 30: ‘Boutique Cinema- ‘The Imitation Game’, screening starts at 20.00 with a pre-feature comedy classic from 19.30, Clayton’s, Oxford Road. (Due to popularity book your seat in advance: 01628 488404.

For more information/changes to schedules as listed or information please call Marlow Information Centre on 01628 483597 or

Library on 01628 796969 or Henley Library on 01491 575278 66 VIVID | MARCH/APRILMaidenhead 2015

O u t & Ab o u t

We’ve got some great events for you in the coming weeks from the National Theatre, Royal Opera House, Met Opera, Bolshoi and more. Book online, by phone or in person. ENO LIVE: LA TRAVIATA A stunning production of Verdi’s masterpiece of passionate love and tragic death, sung in English. Wed 11 Mar, 7.30

31+02 April: ‘Easter Bunny Spoon Puppets’ - get set for some Easter Bunny fun and create your own bobbing and hopping bunny spoon puppet, at Wycombe Museum, sessions starting at 10:30,11:30,12:30, 14:15+15:15 for ages 5-11, £2.50, drop – in – 01494 421895

April

01: ‘The Four Seasons – Club Meeting’, at Liston Hall, 10:15, refreshments available, bring and buy table, raffle and book stall – 01628 484528. 03: ‘Lenten Lunches’ by the TWA – Supporting the Developing World, Pugin Hall, St Peter’s Church, St Peter’s Street, 12:00-14:00 – homemade soup (4 choices) plus fresh tea or coffee, £5. 03: ‘Cadbury Easter Egg Trail’ at Cliveden, take part in our eggstra special Easter Egg Trail, £3 plus normal admission, 11:00-16:00 – 01628 605069. 07: Marlow & District Wine Circle – ‘Indian Wines – Jonathan Slack’ at Liston Hall, 20:0022:00 – 01628 630341. 07: ‘Rebellion Brewery Open Night’, all ales currently being brewed available on the night. Talks also given on brewing history and methods, 19.00-21.30, Bencombe Farm, Marlow Bottom, SL7 3LT. All welcome, £12.50pp, BBQ all year round! 07+09: ‘Hedgehog Families in Clay’ make your own cute family of hedgehogs in clay, at Wycombe Museum, sessions starting at 10:30,11:30,12:30, 14:15+15:15 for ages 5-11, £2.50, drop – in – 01494 421895 09: ‘Monthly Tea Dance’ by the Marlow Community Association, 14.00-16.00, Liston Hall. 11: Marlow & District Wine Circle – ‘Food & Wine Evening’ at Liston Hall, 20:00-22:00 – 01628 630341. 14: Marlow & District Horticultural Society - “The Garden in Spring” -

speaker Patricia Elkington at Liston Hall, 20:00 – 01628 486206. 14: ‘Macular Society – Wiltshire Farms Food: Demonstrations & Tastings’ at Wesley Methodist Church Hall, Priory Road, High Wycombe, 14:00-16:00, for anyone with or interested in Macular problems. 15: ‘Wild Wednesday’ outdoor fun for 4-11 year olds, £2 per child, plus normal admission fees, 11:00-15:00 at Cliveden – 01628 605069. 15: ‘The Four Seasons – Trip to the National Arboretum’ for members only £20, but only £5 a year to become a member – 01628 484528. 16: ‘The Four Seasons – History of Pinewood Studios’ – talk by Mike Payne, at Liston Hall, 14:30 16: ‘Vegetable Garden Workshop’ - join one of our Gardeners in Cliveden for a workshop all about vegetables and our wonderful Walled Garden, free event but normal admission fees apply, 11:00-12:30 to reserve your place call 0844 249 1895. 24: ‘Tiny Talk Time – Dancing Dragons’ for 2-4 years olds, stories, trails and crafts at Wycombe Museum, 10:30-11:30 & 13:15-14:15, £2. 25: ‘Marlow Transition Town Community Market’ - local crafts and produce, refreshments available at Liston Hall, 09:30-13:00 27: ‘Tiny Talk Time – Dancing Dragons’’ at Wycombe Museum, special time for under 5’s including stories, trails and craft activities, 10:3011:30 or 13:15-14:15, £2 per child, to book call 01494 421895. 30: Archaeology in Marlow – jointly with Marlow Archaeology Society – “Roman Brooches” a talk by Dr Justine Bayley, specialist in metal and glass technology of the Roman and medieval periods at Garden

NT: BEHIND THE BEAUTIFUL FOREVERS A new play by David Hare based on the book by Katherine Boo, Thu 12 Mar, 7.00 (Live) and Fri 20 Mar, 2.45

MAXINE PEAKE AS HAMLET Manchester Royal Exchange’s fresh, fast-paced version of Shakespeare’s tragedy, Mon 23 Mar, 7.45 & Fri 27 Mar, 2.15 NT: A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE Mark Strong stars in Arthur Miller’s electrifying drama, Thu 26 Mar, 7.00 (Live) and Thu 9 Apr, 2.45 (Encore) ROH LIVE: RISE AND FALL OF THE CITY OF MAHAGONNY A major work from the remarkable partnership of playwright and poet Bertolt Brecht and composer Kurt Weill, Mahagonny, Wed 1 Apr, 7.15pm NT: THE HARD PROBLEM A new play by Tom Stoppard, Thu 16 Apr, 7.00 (Live) and Fri 24 Apr, 2.45 BOLSHOI: IVAN THE TERRIBLE Drawing on the music composed by Prokofiev, Sun 19 Apr, 4.00 EXHIBITION ON SCREEN Vincent Van Gogh - a new way of seeing. Mon 20 Apr, 6.30pm Regal Picturehouse, 2 Boroma Way, Henley RG9 2BZ www.picturehouses.co.uk/henley MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 67

O u t & Ab o u t Charity. Book your tickets now! Clare Gosling: 01494 533203 or henley@ stagecoach.co.uk

ONGOING EVENTS GENERAL

Room, Liston Hall, 20:00, £4. 30: ‘Vegetable Garden Workshop’ - join one of our Gardeners in Cliveden for a workshop all about vegetables and our wonderful Walled Garden, free event but normal admission fees apply, 11:00-12:30 to reserve your place call 0844 249 1895.

MAY

9: Marlow Choral society in ‘Vive La France” a concert of French music: Gounod’s St Cecilia Mass & Bizet’s Te Deum conducted by Chris Grant and Cygnus orchestra of London. 19:30, All Saints Church, Marlow. Tickets £13 -MIC, Runners Retreat & on the door. www.marlowchoralsociety.org.uk 10-16: Stagecoach Theatre Arts Henley, High Wycombe and Marlow join together in a spectacular week’s programme of entertainment at the Kenton Theatre, Henley. Follow over 250 6-16yrs students down the rabbit hole to Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, while our 15-18yrs present Capital Vices a brand new, exciting fight or flight concept piece! All profits in aid of The MSA and Alexander Devine 68 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Marlow Art & Craft Society 1st Thursday in month, 19:30, Marlow Bottom Village Hall Marlow Antique bric-a-brac fair meets 1st Saturday of the month at Liston Hall from 9:00 - 16:00 Marlow Museum, Saturdays, Sundays and Bank Holidays 1pm to 5pm. - www. marlowmuseum. org. Pound Lane - opposite the Leisure Club Marlow Camera Club meet every Tuesday with a prearranged programme on Tuesday evenings, 19:45 - 20:00.The Methodist Church Hall, Spittal Street, Marlow, SL7 3HJ Henley Photographic Club have a prearranged programme on Tuesday evenings, 20:00 - 22:00, YMCA Hall, off Waterman’s Road, Henley www.henleyphotoclub.com Stanley Spencer Gallery, 2nd April - 2nd November 2014 - 10:30 - 17:30 daily Speak Spanish in Beaconsfield, Beaconsfield High School. Wednesdays 19:30. Suitable for all levels except beginners. Tony on 07947 508755 - anthony.mitchelmore@sky.com Maidenhead Over 30’s Disco parties, every Friday, 20:30pm - 1:00 Bird Hill Golf Club, Drift Road, off Hawthorn Hill SL6 3ST Maidenhead Camera Club, every Tuesday, Cox Green Community Centre, 630861 The East Berks RSPB Group meet monthly from 7.30pm to 9.30pm on Thursdays at the High Street Methodist Church Hall in Maidenhead - www.eastberksrspb.org.uk

Maidenhead Archaeology society, meet last Wednesday of the month, WRVS, Maidenhead, t: 630 839 Colenorton Dragon Boat Club, Sunday 10.00 - 12.30, Bray Lake Water Sports, Maidenhead SL6 2EB - www.colenorton.co.uk South Bucks Walking Group. Regular walks programme plus club weekends, coach rambles, and other social walking events. Di Olden - 01494 714486. - www. southbuckshfwalkingclub.co.uk Henley and Goring Ramblers, regular walks programme available - www. ramblers-oxon.org.uk/HG.htm Cookham & Cookham Dean Horticultural Society, meet the last Wednesday of the month from January - May & September - November, 19:30, Cookham Dean Village Hall: clairephillpot@btinternet.com MAidenhead National Trust meet second Thursday most months, 19:45, Altwood School, Maidenhead. For more details Lyn on 01628 670719

ONGOING EVENTS - MARKETS Maidenhead Produce Market 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month on Maidenhead High Street The Farmers Market, 2nd Sunday of the month from 10:00, Grove Street Car Park Bourne End Country Market product. Small Hall 10 - 12 , Every Friday Henley Farmers Market, every 4th Thursday in Falaise Square, Henley, 8:30-14:00 Bourne End Community and Craft Market - second Saturday of every month 10:00 - 13:00 in the Jackson Room of Bourne End Library. VOLUNTEERS URGENTLY REQUIRED Cameo stands for “Come and meet each other”. We are a small local charity which is affiliated to Marlow Community Association. We have been in existence for over 30 years now and we urgently need volunteers to help with the lunches we provide on a monthly basis to elderly, household, disabled and lonely people. In particular we need volunteers who are interested in cooking. FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW YOU CAN HELP contact Carole Holme 01628 473577 carole.holme@btinternet.com

Improving Fertility Cassie Everett is an accomplished homeopath with over 10 years experience and founder of ‘Become Fertile’, she also teaches and supervises other homeopaths and runs regular workshops and talks across London. Every month, Cassie will tackle a health issue for us, starting with fertility… Spring is the season of new life. Flowers bloom, plants bear fruit, and baby animals fill our landscape. What better time then, to discuss our own reproductive health? Interestingly, higher fertilisation rates have been found in women undergoing IVF in spring, according to new research presented at the World Congress of Fertility and Sterility. Leading expert Dr Braga believes the increase in light in spring could trigger women’s bodies to produce higher levels of estradiol, a hormone important for fertilisation of the egg and development of the embryo. It’s also been found that men have healthier sperm in winter and early spring than in summer, the cooler months of winter are said to improve the sperm health resulting in the best quality sperm being available in the spring time. I work with a lot of couples wanting to improve their fertility naturally, and as a homeopath, my aim is to thoroughly investigate and assess what’s going on with that person, identifying what I feel may be hindering their reproductive status and drawing up a holistic plan to bring their body back into balance. Here are my top 5 tips for improving your fertility: 1. Make some dietary changes. Start by cutting out all processed foods, white carbs and sugars. Include small amounts of good organic protein and good fats (like coconut oil) that will not load the body with extra hormones and eat plenty of vegetables (7 -10 a day). Take folates, calcium, vitamin E, Zinc, B6 and vitamin A supplements. Green powders like Chlorella and spirulina can be very good as a lot of people are too acidic causing an inflamed state inside the body. Vitamin D is also important to help the immune system function properly, and it plays a crucial role in sperm quality and blood sugar balance. 2. Get plenty of sleep, daylight and gentle regular exercise

The amount of light we are exposed to plays a crucial role in human reproduction. Essentially, we have an innate biological and

neurohormonal chemical system linked directly with the 24 hour patterns of light and dark. This is known as the circadian system, and it regulates important aspects of our lives such as blood pressure, heart rate, urine output, sleep, wake and even reproduction. In order to improve your fertility I recommend you try: • Getting as much exposure to natural daylight as possible • Arranging your work place to accommodate your desk nearer to windows with direct views to the outside world • Exercising early in the morning before work (without wearing sunglasses) • Getting into the habit of avoiding all unnecessary artificial light exposure at night • Going to bed before 11pm because if we go to bed late the cortisol level increases and the melatonine level goes down. This results in not sleeping as well and waking un-refreshed. Numerous research from around the world has confirmed the importance of exercise (in moderation) when it comes to our fertility. Physical activity can help increase blood flow to our sexual organs, and help re-balance our reproductive hormones. This can promote sperm cell production, improve sperm count/quality, and help encourage normal ovulation cycles. Most health experts suggest 30 minutes of physical activity, five or six days per week. 3. Learn to manage your stress In my experience, stress is the number one block to falling pregnant. Herbert Benson, MD, identified the reverse of the body’s stress response, which he called the relaxation response’. He found that undertaking relaxation techniques can bring about many beneficial changes in the body including a lower heart rate, slower breathing, reduced muscle tension and

positive changes in brain waves. Homeopathy recognises that in order to effectively treat fertility issues, it is important to treat any underlying emotional stresses. Unfortunately you can’t remove stress from your life completely but what you can do is learn to use techniques to manage it better so it doesn’t hinder your fertility. This simple but effective technique can be very useful. Take five minutes several times a day and do the following: • Focus on your heart as you breathe in • Concentrate on a positive feeling or attitude as you breath out • Lock in this new feeling as you continue to breathe it in and out through your heart As you become adept at using this technique select new feelings to help you ‘de-stress’ as needed.(adapted from the HeartMath Attitude Breathing tool – www.heartmath.com) 4. Switch to natural cleaning / beauty products Avoid chemical ingredients like Sodium Lauryl Sulphate. Our skin acts like a mouth and so everything we are exposed to or that we put onto the skin is absorbed into the blood stream. These chemicals act like Oestrogen in the body, upsetting the natural hormonal balance. 5. Make time for fun! This may sound a bit obvious but people can forget about the importance of making time for having fun and laughing especially when they have been trying to conceive for a while. When we feel joyful our bodies naturally produce the hormone DHEA which is a vital hormone for reproduction as it restores and helps maintain hormonal balance. Cassie Everett has a talk coming up on how to boost your fertility naturally in central London at the end of March. www.becomefertile.com/events MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 69

Useful Numbers

MAIDENHEAD - CLUBS Rotary Club of Maidenhead ................................... 632797 The Maidenhead Players ........................... 07879 476301 Maidenhead Drama Guild ...................................... 635017 Maidenhead Operatic Society ............................... 671589 Maidenhead Musical Comedy Society... 07813979894 Grimm Players ........................................................... 820429 Maidenhead Concert Band ................................... 624514 Maidenhead Folk Club ........................................... 448268 Tuesday Singers ........................................................ 629012 Athletics ....................................................................... 522797 Maidenhead & Bray CC ............................... 07885 240209 North Maidenhead Cricket Club ......................... 624137 Rugby ........................................................................... 629663 Hockey ......................................................................... 622669 Desborough Bowls Club ......................................... 629403 Rowing .......................................................................... 622664 SportsAble ................................................................... 627690 Maidenhead Tennis .................................................. 623785 Thames Valley Cycling Club ................................... 638984 East Berks Badminton .............................................. 636283 Maidenhead Camera Club ...................................... 630861 East Berkshire Ramblers .......................................... 634561 Lions Club of Maidenhead ..................................... 634333 Maidenhead Golf Club ............................................ 624693 Five Aces Duplicate Bridge Club .......................... 625663 River Thames Society ............................................... 624025 RBWM - COUNCIL Bus Services ................................................... 0871 2002233 CIS ................................................................................... 507587 Council Tax .................................................................. 683850 Library - Cox Green ................................................... 673942 Library - Holyport Container ...................................796555 Library - Maidenhead ............................................... 796969 Recycling ...................................................................... 796474 Police ............................................................... 0845 8505 505 Trains ............................................................... 0845 7000 125 Town Hall ..................................................................... 683800 Youth & Community Centre .................................. 685999 Thames Valley Adventure Playground .............. 628599 COOKHAM - CLUBS Tennis & Croquet .......................................... 07968 173757 Line Dancing .............................................................. 486362 Petanque ............................ ........................................ 417453 Cookham Bridge Rotary Club .................. 07724 042708 Cookham & Bourne End Inner Wheel Club ...................... ............................................................................. 07715 441713 COOKHAM Library ............................................................................ 526147 Police ............................................................................. 531785 Bourne End & Cookham Rotary ............................ 810967 Stanley Spencer Gallery ........................................... 471885 Medical Centre ........................................................... 810242 BOURNE END Library ............................................................................ 524814 Community Centre ................................................... 527502 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 ............................................................... 483030 Rugby ............................................................ 483911/477054 Marlow Striders .......................................................... 475548 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 ................................................... 0871 200 2233 Liston Hall ..................................................................... 472558 Marlow Information centre ................... 483597/481717 Library ............................................................... 0845 2303232 Town Council .............................................................. 484024 Neighbourhood Watch - Nic Martin....... 01895 837220 Wycombe Council ........................................ 01494 461000 Police ................................................................ 0845 8505505 Trains ................................................................ 0845 7000125 HENLEY - CLUBS Henley Rowing Club .................................... 01491 573943 Henley Players ............................................... 01491 636253 Henley Hawks Rugby Club ........................ 01491 574499 Henley Cricket Club ....................................... 01491 57774 Lions Club of Henley ...................................... 01491 57671 Henley Bowling Club ..................................... 01491 57927 Henley Tennis Club .......................................01491 572230 Henley Hockey Club .................................... 01491 576988 Henley Wednesday Bridge Club ............. 01491 573958 Henley Choral Society ................................ 01491 576929 HADISC Badminton Club ........................... 01491 577909 Henley Music School ................................... 07989 396210 HENLEY - COUNCIL Henley Library ............................................... 01491 575278 Police ................................................................ 01189 536000 Henley Town Council .................................. 01491 576982 HOSPITALS St Mark’s Hospital ......................................... 01628 632012 Wycombe ........................................................ 01494 526161 NHS Direct .............................................................. 0845 4647 Townlands Community Hospital............. 01491 637400 Congratulations to all our winners from our January/February edition: Books from the Book Guild: Les Morgan, Helen Power, Michelle Livett Banff Mountain Festival Tickets: Jill Trussell Chocolate Ecstasty Tour: Clare Wong Whittlebury Hall Hotel & Spa for a Day: Colin Peel Simplehuman 20cm Sensor Mirror: Margaret Farmer Lumie Clear: Tasmin Blanchard Book ‘Talon’ by Julie Kagawa: Alison Bull Untangle your Mind CD: Derek Done Board Game - Mr & Mrs: Janice Williamson

We do our best to keep these numbers up to date, but if they have changed please let us know and we will happily update them - Contact@VividMag.co.uk 70 VIVID | MARCH/APRIL 2015

Clearcut

gardens

tree care Tree felling

Forcing Strawberries Get a head start to summer by planting strawberries under glass now to encourage early fruits.

which are under cover can be accessed by pollinating insects.

Throw open the doors of Plants need exposing to a your greenhouse and remove period of really cold weather cloches when the weather to set plenty of flowers, so is mild and sunny, closing donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t bring them in too soon. everything up again at night. In the greenhouse, once the You can lift and plant them strawberries start to flower, into a pot filled with compost take a soft paintbrush and and soil, then bring them just run it over each flower into the greenhouse or cold once a day. This way you will frame, or alternatively cover ensure good pollination. any plants which are in the ground with a cloche, to You wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need to do that encourage an earlier crop. with the plants you grow Make sure that the plants outdoors.

Sowing Greenhouse Peppers This month is a good time to sow peppers in a heated propagator or on a windowsill indoors at a temperature of 21-27C (70-80F), to give them a head start for summer. When large enough to handle, the seedlings can be pricked out and potted on to individual small pots to grow at 16-19C (60-65F). Harden them off carefully as peppers

are extremely frost sensitive. They can be planted in an unheated greenhouse from late May to early June, or outside, preferably in a sheltered spot, in mid-June. Water them in well after planting and then sparingly until they are starting to flower. Support them with canes and apply a liquid tomato feed once a week once the first flowers open.

Crown reducing & thinning Stump grinding Domestic / Commercial Fully insured Free quotes and advice

T: 0118 968 0765 M: 07515 122375 E: info@clearcutgardens.co.uk

www.clearcutgardens.co.uk MARCH/APRIL 2015 | VIVID 71

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