Percy - a country pursuit magazine by April Bowden

percy.

from the editor November is here and it brings the best of the autumn season - which for me has always been, in addition to the leaves picking up vibrant colours and comfort food taking the place of light summer salads - a complete change of wardrobe. Maybe not a crazy shopping spree for all the latest and greatest, but definately pulling out my Mui Mui cashmere and lambswool knits that were boxed up and hidden out of sight during the long days of summer. Even with the temperatures outside means I can’t bear to wear wool or cashmere sweaters just yet. I am still drawn to them when the calender rolls around to December. Perhaps as a Northerner, comfort, warmth and nesting in the autumn is in my DNA. Now, rather than describe the motivation behind the change with the word fashion, I prefer to use the word style. In my opinion, fashion is as fleeting as the seasons, but true style is life long. Style is also so much more than what to wear/what not to wear. Style is all facets of life, in addition to those most surface of aspects, to me means to live with grace no matter your means. Whatever we term it, this subject is to some a trivial matter and to others thoe most important thing. I think I fall somewhere in the middle, and I try to take it beyond my wardrobe. In addition to changing the clothes in my wardrobe, I always have the urge at this time of year to overhaul just about everything else - sprucing up with a haircut and maybe a new hair colour, but also cleaning of my Jimmy Choo Hunter Wellingtons in preparation for evenings down the local pub - who said a girl can’t wear Jimmy Choo’s knee deep in snow? This month, we are brining you feature stories that we hope will entertain, engage and inspire you. For our cover story our models Nick and Suzanne spin a tale of romantic young love on the Northumbrian borders, decked out in the finest that our local boutiques have to offer.

April

percy contributors editor - April Bowden photographer - Mark Jobson assistant - Heather Scott stylist - Amy Hargreaves make up artist - Laura Gemmell Model - Suzanne Harger, Nicholas Barnes.

this month in

percy. p.6 - an introduction into fishing p.8 - a day with fishing for everyone p.11 - fishing tips with Lucy Bowden p.12 - beauty: MAC make up artist Laura Gemmell p.14 - beauty: sport the look p.16 - hair: looking after your mane p.18 - a brief look into all things hunting p.20 - Alan Paine p.22 - interview: Drew Holmes p.23 - excerpt from memoirs of a fox hunting man. p.24 - review: country p.26 - interview: The Duchess of Northumberland

p.22 Drew Holmes

p.32 Shooting

p.32 - shooting p.34 - interview: Claire Zambuni & Helen Barbour p.38 - fashion at Ellingham Hall p.56 - something for the weekend p.58 - fashion: heritage classics p.60 - interview: Emma Hill of Mulberry p.63 - call of the Hunter p.64 - food: great british classics p.65 - food: which wine? p.66 - food: support game p.67 - food: reciepes p.72 - review: the Baltic: Six p.74 - review: Sorrento p.75 - little black book

p.56 fashion: heritage classics

p.64 food

fishing The season is from the 15th of March till the 6th of October for browns Unlike many sports which rely on specialist skills, such as an eye for a ball or a good sense of timing, anybody can fish. You can fish all the year round. In fact, it’s one of the joys of angling because with each season there are different fish to catch. Angling is an ageless pastime. In how many other sports can a child take part on equal terms with their granddad? And it’s not limited by number - you can fish alone, with friends or in an organised group. There is fishing to suit everybody’s taste and location: casting a fly in spring to a wild brown trout, stalking a huge carp on a balmy summer evening or casting beyond the surf, when the cod are close to the shore in the autumn.

Angling is for all, young and old, male and female, the able and the disabled. Everyone can enjoy this wonderful sport. It doesn’t matter how old you are or where you live - there will be exciting fish to catch somewhere nearby. Near to where you live will be a lake, a river or reservoir that will be teeming with hard fighting game fish. Indeed there are few places where our native trout - the brown trout - will not be ambushing natural flies. Some of these streams are often found in and around busy towns. Years ago fly-fishing was seen as the preserve of the wealthy, but this is not so any more. The opening of reservoirs for fly- fishing and the introduction of rainbow trout into this country over a hundred years ago has changed all that and now the rainbow is one of our more

common species. It provides sport to both the newcomer and expert in a variety of lakes and larger waters. Fly-fishing is all about variety. And the species that you are fishing for are great to eat: but always limit your catch, not catch your limit – leave some for others to enjoy. You can fly fish in salt water for bass, pollock, mullet and a host of other species. Coarse fish like pike, perch, rudd and zander, all take artificial ‘flies’. In terms of clothing, Hardy & Greys offers the best of the best in terms of fishing attire. Barbour, Chubb and North Face cater for thermals, base layers and waterproofs. The key to looking good on the river bank is layers and lots of them.

male Level 2 Game Angling Coach in the UK.

fishing DAY When I first became Editor of Percy Magazine, I knew very little about the shooting and fishing world. My Dad has always been a keen fisherman so i’d often take to the river bank when I was much younger catching small fish for fun or shooting rabbits at a friends farm. I was a complete novice. Also I’m a real townie so the ways of the countryside and its pursuits were rather foreign to me. I was asked by keen angler and role model for ladies in angling, Lucy Bowden to join her for the day at Whinney Loch in North Northumberland. Lucy is 24 years old and the youngest licensed fe-

Running her own website, www. fishingforeveryone.com from the age of 16 and promoting women into the sport of angling, Lucy is the Founder and Chairman of the Fishing For Everyone Ladies Fishing Club, a fishing Club set up to encourage more ladies to get out and enjoy angling. I decided to take her up on her offer to come fishing. I thought it would be interesting to see what she found so fascinating about the sport. I arrived in my newly washed white car, a car meant for the city and not for pothole ridden and muddy roads and approached the river bank. Compared to the other anglers, I was like a fish out of water. Excuse the pun. Dressed in Hunter Jimmy Choo wellies with a mock croc effect, Topshop skinny jeans and a Barbour heritage jacket. I embraced the townie-trying-tobe-country look.

After meeting with the FFE ladies, It was apparent that the ladies enjoy the close bond with each and can talk to each other about their fishing experiences and recent catches. I talked to one of the eldery members of the group who claimed she didn’t care about looking good on the river bank despite reeling off 10 brands. A former accountant, Jenny loves being able to catch her dinner and cook for her and her Husband. One of the younger members, dressed in jeans, a pink cap and matching jacket loved fishing because non of her friends fished or were interested. It was great to see a variety of different ladies on the river bank and would highly recommened trying it! More information on Lucy Bowden or the Fishing For Everyone Ladies Fishing Club may be found at www.fishingforeveryone.com or visit the Club Blog at www.blog. fishingforeveryone.com

fishing: tips with Lucy Bowden 1. Polarised sunglasses are always the best bet. 2. Always check if you need a rod license where you are fishing – if you do not have one and are caught, fines of up to £2,000 can be imposed by the Environment Agency. 3. Casting – take time to observe the rise – a cast at the right time will take almost every fish. 4. Avoid the warmest part of the day to go fishing. Early morning and late evening are always the best. 5. When seeking fish – travel light and keep it simple. 6. Always allow your waders and boots to dry fully after use. 7. Talk to anglers around you – find out what baits are working from those in the know. 8. We recommend that you always test out a fishing rod before purchasing. 9. Keep a diary. Log everything from where and when you are fishing to what you caught, what bait and what method worked. 9. Research a venue, especially a new venue before going to increase your chances of catching. 10. Always try to wash your fishing equipment in clean, fresh cold water after going fishing.

make me up

Laura Gemmell, make up artist. How did you begin your career as a make up artist? I started career studying art, then beauty and holistic therapies while I studied, I worked part time at MAC and became a Manager there in both London and then Newcastle. Since having my daughter, I decided to freelance! What do you love about it? I love the freedom I have and being able to be creative! The face is like a blank canvas and you can do so much with it. I love enhancing features and making people feel good about themselves. What’s been your proudest moment to date? There’s a few! Doing the makeup for my two Cousins Weddings and then my Sister in law in Poland. It’s great to get involved in all aspects of the day. Secondy, being the Assistant Manager of the second MAC counter when it opened in Fenwick, Newcastle. And finally, doing the makeup for the launch night fashion show of Daisy Green magazine. What trends are predicted for next season? Pop art lips - a flawless skin with a ‘pop’ of colour on the lip - bright and bold) Hints of the 60’s but with a softer edge - think of Twiggy’s eyes but not as intense. Fashion week also saw the return of the ‘Cat eye’ liquid liner, kicked out at the edge - steady hand required! What products do you recommend for women when spending long days in cold weather?

Long days in the cold weather, an oldie favourite is Vaseline. Perfect to have in you makeup bag at all times. Great to use under makeup to moisturise, use over on the cheekbones to highlight or all over the lid for a glossy finish. What products do you recommend for women when spending long days in cold weather? Keep the skin clean and flawless, with a hint of blusher on the cheeks to give a fresh outdoorsy feel. A chocolatey brown pencil pushed deep into the root of the lashes and blended up for a subltle smokey look, lashings of Mascara (waterproof) and a pop of vaseline on the lips. How to look after your skin? Drink plenty of water, limit tea coffee and alcohol as these will only dehydrate the skin. Pick a good mosituriser suitable for your skin, even if its oily and exfoliate - once or twice a week to get rid of dead skin cells and refresh the skin. Make up artists tips? Always take your makeup off before bed. Leaving it on will clog the pores and cause breakouts. Also, don’t be afraid to pamper your skin from time to time. A hot steamy bubble bath followed by a deep cleansing/ hydrating face masque will leave you and your skin feeling fab! Fantasic must have product? I would have to say M.A.C strobe cream for the face and/or the body. This hydrating moisturiser contains a red pearl pigment to leave the skin with a beauiful glow mixed with your foundation for a glossy look or simply on its own on the legs and arms for runway ready skin!

sport the look

beauty boosters for facing the elements

Shooting

Heal cream should be be in every Barbour pocket. Apply the soothe all over salve to post shoot shoulders, moisturising before the ballgown comes out.

Fishing

The watery down reflection of a river can make even the most perky English Rose look pasty. Fake an outdoorsy glow with the lightest dusting of blusher and Burberry lipstick.

Hunting

It’s crucial your perfume doesn’t scare the horses. If you can go natural try Jo Malone. A woody bright and fresh scent that won’t put the hounds off.

looking after your mane. a converstaion with Angela Lowery of Y Salon, Newcastle. How long have you been working backstage at shows? Y salon has been working backstage at London fashion week for 6 years now How did you get into working at fashion week? We started to work London fashion week through being a Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Oreal Portfolio salon which means we are one of the top 50 salons in the UK. As part of this elite group we get the oportunity to work on various shows if we so wish. Our first was for Central St. Martins Graduate Show @ the V & A for Fashion in Motion which was a pre show for LFW What have been your favourite shows? Favorite shows have been Erdem, Stephanne Rolland and most recently Peter Jensen these have all been at the V & A. We got to do the Stepanne Rolland, Paris show for couture week in January this year that was just outstanding and its so different to London shows. Erdem and Stephannes shows feature glamour and hand crafted workmanship at its highest and is aimed at classical elagance looks were as Peter Jenson show also featured hand crafted work but was younger fun and quriky and exciting.

What has been your favourite hair trend? I really liked the crimped high ponytails we did at Hannah Marshall and the undone bun we did at charles Anastsase as these are two looks we can really use in the salon but the hair at Stephannes shows were also fabulous big 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s style curls for one and a classical twist on a Grace Kelly style chignon. What do you recommend for women when spending long days in cold weather? Hair can become dry and dehydrated in winter just as much as summer due to the fact that heating is turned on everywhere and the high winds. Wear a hat outdoors to protect hair from harsh winds and carry a brolly for wet days . What styles would work best for women fishing and shooting? For any sport hair can get in the way so if fishing or shooting I would recommend something like a loose plait, fishtale style plaits, soft undone buns worn loose at the nape I would keep it all soft and feminine and just slightly out of the way so it

doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t interfere with your game. What advice do you give women on how to look after their hair? You should give the same attention to your hair as you do to your skin as they are both the only accessory you cant take off you have to live with it everyday so its demands attention to keep it looking good. My advice to all women is that you cut it regulary every six weeks to keep ends in check and to prevent from splitting. If you colour your hair roots should be maintained every 4 / 6 weeks depending on regrowth. Also regular conditioning treatments to nourish protect and encourage shine. I would also recommend a detox at least twice a year to remove any residues or build up of product in the hair and this will help hair to peerform better. Finally, if you look after your hair and invest in it it will serve you well after all you cant take it off and put it in the cupboard like a pair of shoes/handbag/ dress and think what you spend on them your hair desreves better !

Hunting how to get started I often wonder why my friends enjoy hunting so much. To me hunting is about being cold and getting dirty; it costs a fortune and there’s a chance someone will get hurt and to make matters worse, you’ll have to wear a hair net. After talking to many huntsmen regarding their views on hunting it dawned to me that it hunting is sport that can be enjoyed by all. People hunt for a number of different reasons - to jump edges, chat to friends, see the countryside

or watch the hounds. No reason is more or less worthy than the other. Albiet, The social element of it is one of the elements that is most enjoyed. You will meet everybody out hunting from all types of backgrounds; Dukes, Duchesses to nurses and teachers. Hunting clothes is designed to be warm and practical. Men wear black or tweed coats, and ladies wear black, blue or tweed. Breeches are worn in white, beige or cream - baggy for men and close fitting for women (tip: if you thighs aren’t quite Elle Macpherson buy some body control from M&S £19.)

Long leather boots are essential to protect your legs from swinging gates, kicking horses and brambles. You can pay up to £1000, for a hand made pair - and if you decide you like hunting and are going to continue, then do, as they’ll be gorgeous ans last for ever. Alternitevely you can buy a second hand pair for £200. A warm collarless shirt, topped with hunting tie, gloves and a hard hat complete a basic outfit. tweet us at @percymagazine to tell us what you wear.

Alan Paine: english style Alan Paine was born in September 1907. He was the second son of William and Josie Paine and his father was struggling to establish a tailoring business at 72 High Street, Godalming in Surrey, England.. Focusing on luxurious yarns, such as Cashmere, Geelong Lambswool and Merino Wool, with extensive colour ranges across all yarns, it is no surprise that the brand boasts an enviable worldwide customer base spanning New York, Rome, Paris, Moscow and Tokyo. We are proud to be associated with the Alan Paine name and to act as their factory outlet in the UK. These sweaters quickly grew popular with sportsmen and women at a time when sports

of all kinds were becoming fashionable. In the 1920s, the ‘club colour’ trim was added to a plain sweater and, before long, the club colours were worn by every rowing, tennis and cricket club. Records of the many different club and college colours were carefully recorded and specially dyed wools were stocked to match the club silk ties.

“Evolutionary style rather than evolutionary fashion” The style of the cable sweater soon became a favourite of the Prince of Wales, later to become King Edward VIII. The sales of Alan Paine knitwear increased and the company was able to widen its

outlets into London and throughout the rest of the country and to begin exporting overseas. From 1930 onwards, production was modernised with the introduction of electronic machines. Through the 1950s and 1960s Alan Paine continued to flourish, developing a strong business overseas and, in particular, within Europe and North America. Today Alan Paine is based in the heart of the British countryside and continues to use British design skills. The business is still committed to the originally philosophy and high standards of excellence set by Alan Paine all those years ago.

A day in the life of: Drew Holmes Drew, 30 lives in the North East of England and works as a Fashion Developer for Nigel Cabourn - a brand focusing on high end Menswear clothing who’s inspiration is driven by original vintage 1920’s and 1950’s archival peices worn by famous explorers such as Sir Edmund Hillary. Drew’s diary entry describes his weekend at a meet in Northumberland: Friday 5pm: I get home from a busy day at work and start preparing the horse. I wash, and clean tack and make sure i’m prepared for the following day. Saturday 7am: I get up and get one of my 3 horses ready. I tack up and fill my 2 hip flasks will Percy Specials (whiskey & Cherry brandy) or Sloe Gin. 9.30am : Depending on where the meet is, I set off to get there and allow plenty of time for a welcome whiskey at the beggining of the hunt. 10am : Meet friends and start the Hunt. 11am: Move off - begin the Hunt. 3pm: Hunt until dark.

“My first appearance in the hunting field was preceded by more than three years of unobstusive preperation. Strictly speaking, I suppose that my sporting career sporting career started even earlier than that. Beginning then with the moment when Dixon inwardly decided to increase my Aunt’s establishment by aquistation of a confidential child’s pony, I pass to his first recorded utterance on this, to the important subject.” Memoirs of a Fox Hunting Man Siegfried Sassoon.

Jasper Conran: country Photographs by Andrew Montgomery. Jasper Conran spent a year travelling around rural England, meeting the people keeping ancient crafts and traditions alive. His observations are collected in his evocative new book. ‘Country’ is an idea – a texture, a flavour, a state of mind. Close your eyes, and imagine the English countryside. What do you see or hear, smell, feel or taste? It might be a sweep of beautiful landscape or the warmth of a roaring pub fire; perhaps a porch filled with dripping coats and muddy wellingtons, the scent of ripe apples and freshly baked bread, or the hum of bees in a sleepy kitchen garden.” Jasper wanted to celebrate that idea and

attempt to capture in words and photographs some of the many threads that make up some of the fabric of the English countryside. To record the people and events he found during a year of exploration. Jaspar is a designer and worked all of his life with fabric and colour. His great appreciating part of the texture, colour and form of the English countryside malgamated the two loves togther.

“Our world is being transformed, not only by globalisation but also by urbanisation.” For the first time in history, more people live in towns and cities than

in the countryside. Across the globe we are forgetting our rural roots, but country life, its values and people have never had more to offer. This is not about some imagined past, but life as it is lived today, in all its wonderful complexity. Jasper worried that these treasures can be all too easily lost. In some countries, grey urban landscapes merge from one city to the next. The countryside belongs to all of us or it belongs to none of us. It is merely entrusted to our keeping, to be tended, watered, nurtured and handed on to the following generations in good condition. We need to cherish it.

The Duchess of Northumberland: a regal greeting. It is a November afternoon in Alnwick, the elegant blue skies are complimented by the radiant glow of the Sun. Still, the crisp breeze is a clear indication that Winter is looming and a cashmere jumper is an essential. As I wait patiently, the coolness in air has ill effect, as every sense is preoccupied with excitement and anticipation of privileged company. Suddenly, I am greeted by Her Grace The Duchess of Northumberland; accompanied by her beloved dog, Fuzzy, who follows each command with the expected regal obedience. The setting could not be more fitting. Alnwick Gardens; the brainchild of the Duchess herself and along with taxidermy and fashion, one her greatest passions. As we settle on some seating under the magnificent pavilion, the therapeutic tones of water from

the grand cascade lap intensely behind us. Even as a local girl, it is difficult not to be in awe of what a glorious achievement the Alnwick Gardens represents for the area. As I enjoy a latte, kindly provided as part of the Duchess’ hospitality and find myself introducing my background by a request from an interested party, it becomes quickly apparent that any preconceptions of the stereotypical aristocrat are merely a misconception. Instead, I have the pleasure of sitting with a privileged but down to earth woman who cares immensely about young bright futures. The title ‘Duchess’ invokes images synonymous with period clothing…corsets, frills crinolines, and the like. To the contrary, I find myself thinking that the Duchess would not be out of place at London Fashion Week instead of a

Tuesday Afternoon lunch in Alnwick. Wearing black James jeans, a whistles shirt, vintage suede waistcoast and a tweed reversible Ralph Lauren jacket finished with a figure to which any woman would envy; The Duchess has fashioned her own unique style, which most importantly flatters and works for her. The woman behind one of the North East biggest tourist’s attractions – Alnwick Castle famously features in Harry Potter films - has the drive and enthusiasm of a successful entrepreneur. In contrast the Gardens is open 364 days of the year for he public to enjoy, and this is not where the dissimilarities cease. Unlike the Castle, the Gardens are run partly as a charity to which the Duchess is a trustee.

The Duchess is undeniable in the fact that she is obsessed by the Gardens and is making all endeavors to raise £25m for the Garden’s ambitious third and final phase. As a symbolic reminder of her determination, she has vowed not to remove a gifted necklace from Ethopia until the target is achieved. As with any other project commissioned by the Duchess, this in no doubt will court its critics. Un-waivered, the Duchess shares her vision with positivity; “What I’m going to be doing is building this play area which my designers tell me is going to be one of the most extraordinary playgrounds in the world – where the disabled route is more exciting that the able-bodied route. I’m not someone who is interested in doing things the same way as everybody else. Why give people a cup of tea in a building when they could be sitting in the water? They can take off their socks and shoes and they paddle to the table in the water. You want to do things that take people out of their comfort zone and out of normality”.

Constantly fizzing with ideas, she finds it difficult to relax. Her next big project involves collaborating with British designer Alan Paine and working on her own collection of shooting attire for women. Having no design experience or fashion background, The Duchess has taken elements of her own clothing and reflected it in the collection. Alan Paine is known throughout the shooting comminity. Founded in England in 1907, the brand oozes heritage and tradition. The same values hold the backbone of the company. It goes without saying, Alan Paine is already an established brand and collaborating with the Duchess only strengthens and grows each brand. Northumberland Estates is one of the most prestigious shooting grounds in the UK with the Duke of Northumberland Lord James Percy accountable as the best shots in the country. Lord James Percy has latterly designed a shooting range collection with Helen Barbour, Vice Chairperson of the family buisness and of the shooting collection. Helen Barbour

explained. “Silhouettes remain classic while the fabrics are more high-end and technical than ever before. Outdoor favourite GORE-TEX® is unrivalled for its ability to keep out water and wind while remaining breathable, dry and comfortable. This high-tech fabric features through three of the jackets, including the standout Sporting Ultimate 3-in-1, which can be worn in various different ways to suit the day.” With womens outdoor clothing few and far between, Alan Paine already designs a small range for women offering a smart and tradional look for town or country. The Duchess’ collection carrying the same name, is suitable for all women of different shapes and sizes, from soft cashmere twin suits to silk shirts with perfectly positioned detailing adding that something extra and luxurious to the designs. But as is common in business, this venture is not without its set backs. Working in an all man team has created difficulty. The thought process differs, men don’t have the same comprehension for a frill or button in a certain place.

From mentioning her love for more traditiaon brands, her passion for the heavily printed and detailed high street brand All Saints strikes me. Elements of something unordinary came natural to the collection. Using traditiaonl browns, greens and creams often found in shooting attire, the lining on jackets and skirts is a striking purple colour which will allow people to disguish and easily recongise her collection. “If it’s different, people will pay for the quality and uniqueness of something, women want to wear the right things and country clothes aren’t flatting.” With reference to a friend who purchased a £800 skirt, an example was made of the pleats which far from flattened merely due to the incorrect positioning of the pleats. The collection, due to be launched in fashion capitals of Milan, Paris and London in August 2012, is aimed at all ages. The Duchess of Northumberland collection

will clearly be very successful. Her daughters, Lady Katie and Lady Melissa are both shooting enthusasitcs and are very fond of their Mothers collection. Lady Melissa is a tennis coach at Queens Club, London and is regulary spotted with Prince Harry and the Royal circle. It’s clear that age doesn’t matter when it comes to purhcasing the coelcction, “any woman who likes to shoot and lieks to look good would be interested.” Describing her collection as “fun and beautiful and good quality, that needn’t be boring.” She uses the phrase with great vigour and relates it to the Gardens, knowing that natural beauty is always complimented with a sense of style. Ralph Lauren is one of her favourite designers and refers to his collection throughout the day.

women I’ve liked, women I’ve disliked; women I’ve admired, women that create a sense of shame; women with great spirit, women with no heart; women that have left me in awe, women that have left me deflated. Through research I expected the Duchess to harbour most of the negative qualities named, but in contrast never more so than now have a met a women that projects every positive aspects. This opportunity truly was a honour and a pleasure. As the Duchess set off into the winter sun to embark on her latest adventure, like the gardens, many will welcome the prospect of the failure of her clothing line…not me. Next season I look forward to parading the latest fashions designed by Jane Northumberland and until that time I wish her all the success she deserves, because after spending lunch with her, not only do I like her, I feel I know her.

As we concluded and say our goodbyes, I began to reflect on my past experiences. I’ve interviewed

Shooting

The start of the shooting season is 12th August, specifically the start of the grouse shooting season, it heralds the annual migration of the smartest sets to heather moors of the North of England and the Highlands of Scotland in pursuit of the ultimate shooting experience driven grouse. Grouse shooting was largely invented and made fashionable by the Victorians. When the Queen Empress and her consort Albert bought Balmoral in 1848 and decided to adopt all things Scottish up and including tartan carpet - the rich and powerful went too. So how does one get into Grouse shooting? the best way is to own a grouse moor. In ascending order of expense, ou can inherit one; you can marry one, you can rent onel or at a stretch - buy one. They don’t come on the market very

often and when they do, they’re eye wateringly expensive. This is why grouse shooting tends to be exlusive. Every grouse shot costs someone the thick end of £80, while for a partridge or pheasant it’s about £30. How to begin? Best learn how to do it. Shotguns are dangerous things. Leathal. So learning to do it properly - and safely is central to the enjoyment of the whole excersize. The country is dotted with shooting schools. London has famously the Holland and Holland and the west has West London Shooting School and Royal Berkshire at Pangbourne. A quick google or thumb through the phone book with soon put you in touch with the nearest shooting school near you. Expect to pay £80 an hour for gun hire, ammunication and tuition. Practice makes perfect, then you

can go shopping. The first thing you will need to buy is a shooting license at £50. Then, shotguns range between £1000 100 times that.You can buy them old and new. English hand made guns such as Purdey, Holland and Holland, Boss & Ray cost up to £30,000 and are reknowned as the best. However Italian makers such as Beretta, Rizzini and Guerini are highly regarded as great shot gun makers. Then there are the clothes. Suits, boots, hates and gloves, tweeds. It’s best to start small. They key is to be warm and be classic. The Duchess of Northumberland, who’s Husband, The Duke respectively, is considered one of the best shotsman in the county along with his brother, Lord James. The Duchess is launching her own clothing line next Autumn which features some of the best wools and trims from England.

Our countries heritage Interview with Helen Barbour & Claire Zambuni

hospitality to their women clients and tailored it to their needs.

Age range? CZ - 26-60

Game or Clay? HB - I prefer Game, clay is very boring and quite tense. I don’t like standing there and saying, “Pull.” I hated Grouse, driven game is what I enjoy. I really enjoy the social element and seeing people I know. It’s a nice day out. Whereas walked up grouse shooting isn’t my think. CZ - I love Grouse shooting, stalking and extreme hunting. I’m going to the lsle of Mull in Januar and have rented a cottage in the middle of no where were we have to drag our own carcusses - my idea of heaven. I love all sorts of hunting.

How many shoots per year? CZ - Quite a lot, most are mixed nowadays either clays or game. I’ve four private companies offering

What do you wear when you go shooting? HB - Barbour. I wear a Belford jacket and Dubarry boots. But Barbour are bringing out a whole

Are you part of any clubs? CZ - Yes, the Covert girls. There is about 1500 on the database. People are signing up all of the time after the article on the FT. There aren’t active, but more social. A lot come and join us shooting once they’ve met us and get involved. I’ve my first Covert girl shoot in yorkshire sold out in 24 hrs. More regional shoots

range of Barbour shooting range at the Game Fair next year. The mans featherweight jacket has been taken and styled so it has all the features of the jacket but more lightweight and fitting of the female form. A limited colelction will be brought out but will be enough for women to style. We’ve brought out a mens shooting range with Lord James Percy and developed a recent footwear. CZ - Leather breeks, a Barbour jacket, a bespoke shooting trousers and a fox fur hat. I like my Links Jacket which I wear for stalking. It’s fleece lined and waterproof but with a waist. Stalking is all about disguising yourself therefore fabric plays a huge part in the function. Scandanavian companies are natural hunters therefore they do fabulous stalking clothes.

5 Savile Row, London, W1S 3PE 0800 953 5842/ +44 (0)20 3283 8942 www.bernardweatherill.com

customer has wasted a lot of money that is worthless. CZ - The new Dubarry boot is beautiful, it has sheepskin wool cuff around the top of the boot. However it isn’t practical for most outdoor sports. What is important when buying your shooting clothing? What do you think of the current offerings of female specific shooting clothing? CZ - the more you get into shooting the more you reliase there isn’t much out there. There’s pretty things but it hasn’t the functional element. A product I recently tried on was gorgeous and was designed specificially for shooting in mind. However the fabric composition isn’t designed correctly or waterproof. HB - if you go out shooting outlet and ask the assistant whats best, they will point you in the right director. However what I’ve found is the assistant has been ill advised themselves or have little knowledge of whats best therefore the

HB - Fit for purpose, warm! CZ - I like things that no one else wears. My Spanish riding boots are so lovely but are now battered to bits. What brands do you like wearing? CZ - I like Cordings, I like H&H but they’re overpriced for what it is. I like good quality cashmere and Uniqlo - they do great basic tops. Have you seen a rise in women going shooting? CZ - Yes, it’s become more accessable. People are more interested, women are interested in the whole lifestyle of being

sociable and getting out. The fashion and enviornment help too. It takes your to places the women never normally go to either. You meet amazing people too, from all walks of life so it has that element too. I think that women are becoming more financially independent therefore there is more access for women to get out about and don’t have to rely on their husbands. HB - People like Claire is making is more accessable. Have you come across men who have disliked your participation in the sport? HB/CZ - Yes. You get referred to as posh totty and they don’t take you seriously as we’re often dressed nicely, wearing good quality clothing and as were not dressed down or scruffily then they assume we don’t take the sport seriously. CZ - It’s inverted snobbery really. Most men are fine, however it takes a long time for men to accept.

a country affair

Nick - Ralph Lauren Jodphurs (£285) Burberry leathers brogues (£400) Ralph Lauren vest (£129) and Tweed waistcoat (£485) Suzanne - Vintage mink stole,(stylists own) Joseph silk blouse (£169) Daks grey skirt (£220) Hat (£90)

Nick - Ralph Lauren Jodphurs (£285) Burberry leathers brogues (£400) Ralph Lauren vest (£129) and Ralph Lauren padded gillet (£205) Suzanne - Vintage dress, Brown leather Kurt Geiger boots (£129) Leather skirt Sarah Coggles (£79)

Nick - Ralph Lauren Jodphurs (£285) Ralph Lauren Oxford Shirt (£89) Ralph Lauren lambswool jumper (£229). Suzanne - Vintage dress, Brown leather Kurt Geiger boots (£129) Chiffon skirt (stylists own)

Nick - Barbour Coat, Jack Wills scarf (£40) Fur hat (£40) Suzanne - Burberry trench (£1200) Silk shirt, Joseph (£120) Bow tie (£4) ASOS, Tweed skirt (£45) ASOS

Silk shirt, Joseph (£120) Barbour coat (models own) Basket bag (£16) Sarah Coggles, Cord shorts (£25) Topshop, Rabbit Fur Hat, Vintage.

Suzanne - Silk shirt, Joseph (£120) Barbour coat (models own) Basket bag (£16) Sarah Coggles, Cord shorts (£25) Topshop, Rabbit Fur Hat, Vintage. Nick - Paul Smith silk scarf - TBC, Barbour coat from £79

Silk shirt, Joseph (£120) Barbour coat (models own) Basket bag (£16) Sarah Coggles, Cord shorts (£25) Topshop, Rabbit Fur Hat, Vintage.

Paul Smith silk scarf - TBC, Barbour coat from ÂŁ79 Vintage shooting bag (stylists own)

Paul Smith silk scarf - TBC, Barbour coat from ÂŁ79 Vintage shooting bag (stylists own) Hunter Wellingtons - from ÂŁ60.

Nick - Jack Wills scarf (as before) Joules Maroon top (£34) Ralph Lauren Jodphurs (£285) Burberry leathers brogues Tweed waistcoat (£485) Suzanne - Reiss sheer shirt - £79, Tweed twin set from (£59)

Nick - Barbour jacket (from £79) Jack Wills scarf (as before) Suzanne - Vintage mink hand warmer (stylists own) Joseph Cape (£449) Hat (£90)

Burberry leather belt, £120, Net A Porter

Tweed Cap, £45, Musto

Classic reel, from £49, Hardy & Greys

Tweed coat hangers, £10, Marquis & Dawe

Pink Smythson Diary, Smythson. co.uk

something for the WEEKEND .

Burberry arm warmers, Net A Porter, £150

Daylesford organic jam, Fortnum & Mason, £5.95

Elderflower Liquer, £39.99 Chase.

Silver cufflinks by Thomas Pink, £75

Hunter Wellingtons, Various colours. HunterOnline. co.uk. From £50

Heritage TWEED

feminine with a touch of edge.

CARVEN Leather-collar tweed coat £695

DONNA KARAN Shearling scarf £1,010

CARVEN Leather-collar tweed coat £695

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Lace-up patent-leather pumps £395

MIU MIU Mattelassé suede clutch £1,050

VALENTINO Studded leather driving gloves £255

Masculine TAILORING

join the boys club in a razor sharp coat.

GUCCI Polka-dot silk skinny scarf £125

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN Rollergirl tartan canvas loafers £635

JIMMY CHOO Cassie python and velvet clutch

PRISM Rome tortoiseshell acetate optical glasses £245

£1,195

MCQ ALEXANDER MCQUEEN Double-breasted wool-blend jacket £395

PROENZA SCHOULER PS1 Large leather satchel £1,465

Sporting QUILTING

off duty outfits with a cool kick.

DOLCE & GABBANA Plaid and leather lace-up boots Was £575

KARL DONOGHUE Shearling-lined trapper hat £175

EUGENIA KIM Janine sequin-embellished rabbit earmuffs £165

MARC BY MARC JACOBS Regine faux fur bucket bag £350

BURBERRY BRIT Quilted shell coat £650

SANDRO Surfing intarsia fine-knit sweater £200

Tactile TEXTURE shaggy coats, shearling jackets and wool gilets

MILLY Kiki shearling and patent-leather bag £390

BRIAN ATWOOD Ami suede platform ankle boots £660

MISSONI Crochet-knit scarf £135

MISSONI Cable-knit striped cashmere glovess £145

BURBERRY BRIT Double-breasted shearling coat £995

KARL DONOGHUE Shearling and brushed-leather earmuffs £95

Mulberry Luxury British label Mulberry was founded in 1971 and has long been recognised for its highly crafted fine leather goods. The companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s strength lies in its instant-classic handbags - like the Bayswater and Alexa, as well as itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growing selection of super chic casualwear. Expect sleek denim and playful sweaters with a signature Brit-girl vibe.

Emma Hill:

a short Q&A with the creative director of a british favourite What do you think makes Mulberry an iconic brand? Our British heritage, authenticity and long lasting values have always made Mulberry an iconic brand throughout its 40 years. Our products have personality and versatility and the brand has always been democratic, appealing to a broad customer base - this is something we are proud of and have worked hard to retain. We’ve worked hard on adding credibility and desirability to our accessories collection and as a result we’ve created some beautifully iconic bags which feel like they have always belonged to Mulberry. What is it that you admire about the Mulberry brand? I love Mulberry’s often peculiar mix of seemingly contradictory characteristics; it’s this juxtaposition that we really play with here. On one hand we are making crafted, authentic, very practical, long lasting product, on the other we are irreverent,

fun, friendly, warm, familiar and sometimes whimsical. It’s this very carefully crafted approach to the design of the bags that makes them simultaneously so desirable, so familiar and quintessentially English. What brands out there do you have a respect for, are there any modern designers that inspire you? There are many brands that I have respect for, so many of the UK based brands are developing British fashion and celebrating its history and quirks. I’ve been very fond of Erdem’s work the past few seasons, his collections are beautiful, clean and effortlessly chic but unfortunately most of my favorite designers have been and gone even if their legacy remains - Yves Saint Laurent, Coco Chanel. What do you think are the main contributing factors to how successful the brand has become? Really at the end of the day, I think it comes down to the great

team behind each department at Mulberry. The talent and skill in each of our teams is of the highest standard I’ve ever worked with. That and great product, a great brand message that fits internationally and really solid values that we have great pride in. What are your views on British design and why is it so important? British design is important for our industry and retail, it both sits alongside and stands apart from international fashion. We’ve always been defined by being the ‘other’ either rebellious, quirky, sometimes unpolished, not the glamorous veneer of other cultural fashion signatures. But I think all of that is why we’ve been able to be free from boundaries and constraints and being a certain ‘way’ – we really celebrate being who you are and being proud of that: that’s why British design and fashion is so important on a global stage.

What’s your opinion on British heritage brands and where do you think it’s heading? I think people all over the world are really interested in the sense of British heritage and what you associate with that - craftsmanship, longevity, a certain sense of ‘properness’ and practicality. There is an authenticity to a heritage brand and I think that will remain for years to come.

luxury brands suffered we all gravitated to brands with more authenticity, inherent and longer lasting value and of course products with personality and versatility. I joined with a very clear vision, it was important to me that we retain the DNA of the brand but deliver it with more confidence and personality. Having grown up with Mulberry I felt I understood what it could be, what an English brand should be and the timing really helped too.

Would you ever think of collaborating with another brand?

Where next for Mulberry?

In the past we’ve collaborated with designers, producing some great products and successful lines but at the moment we are focused on collaborating with those outside the fashion design arena, celebrating creative talents like Tim Walker, Chris Craymer and Venetia Dearden and also teaming up with some musical guys and girls for our music project like Hot Chip, Kasabian and Lana Del Rey so we feel like we’re always collaborating in that sense.

We’re planning more expansion and store openings all over the world including USA and Asia, more exciting events as part of our music project and of course more gorgeous products!

How much of an impact did you see on the business during the economic recession and how have you fared coming out of the downturn? I joined in 2008 just as the economy started to look really gloomy which was ironically perfect timing, as markets collapsed and the traditional superficial

Do you think in the future, Mulberry will design a collection purely for sporting pursuits? Never say never! At the moment we’re concentrating on our ready to wear and rolling that out to a wider audience worldwide, we’re always making more gorgeous accessories and adding new members to the family – look out for Harriet – a new addition to the Mulberry family for SS12 and of course not forgetting our range for mans’ best friend – our doggie wear collection!

call of the hunter In September 2011 Hunter will unveil its first campaign, ‘Styled By’. Featuring three of Britain’s most famed fashion personalities, Matt Irwin, Katie Hillier and Sasha Wilkins, ‘Styled by’ celebrates creative individuals whose continued support has contributed to the success of Hunter as an iconic footwear brand. The three faces have been removed from their fast-paced, everyday surroundings and transported to their sanctuaries of choice, reflecting their true personalities and passions. They have also chosen their favourite Hunter boots and styled themselves to give us an insight into their personal worlds while still staying true to their style credentials.

Established accessories designer, Katie Hillier is one of Britain’s great fashion talents, proven with a growing list of accolades including a British Fashion Award for Accessory Designer of the Year and inclusion in Elle’s annual Fashion Power List. Katie continues to consult for a wide spectrum of acclaimed fashion and accessory brands including Victoria Beckham and her own label, Hillier London. Regularly seen on the glossy pages of fashion magazines with her equally high profile friends and partner, Hunter delves into Katie’s contrasting world away from the high-octane lifestyle of a designer. Photographed at her cottage in the picturesque setting of the Cotswolds, Katie is self-styled in her distinctive,

effortless manner wearing her favorite pair of Hunter boots. Multi award winning Liberty London Girl is one of the most talked about, and followed, fashion bloggers. With an extensive background in fashion journalism and a self-proclaimed penchant for Hunter boots, Sasha Wilkins, the creator of Liberty London Girl, could not have been more perfect for the ‘Styled By’ Campaign. With a genuine love of London, a Capital based location seemed the natural backdrop for the Liberty London Girl shoot. Away from the hustle and bustle of Central London, Sasha is captured riding her beloved bicycle along the winding canal sides of Islington.

food: the winter edition

red wine: the truth So many people seem to avoid drinking red wine, even when they prefer it to white or rose, for the fear of the dreaded “red wine hangover”! But why? Maybe you’re simply drinking far too much. Maybe you’re drinking something that’s too heavy for you. Maybe a Biodynamic wine could be your ticket back to the red wine fan club. Let’s cover the first couple of subjects there to begin with. If your drinking too much, tough luck! Have a couple pints of water before bed and man up! If you’re drinking something really full bodied like an Aussie Shiraz, try a Merlot. If you’re drinking a Merlot, try a Pinot Noir. A Biodynamic wine, I hear you ask? To most people Biodynamic wines will mean absolutely nothing. A lot of you will now be thinking of organic wines and the likes, and you wouldn’t be too far wrong. But don’t worry I haven’t gone all hippy on you and I’m not going to start preaching about how

we all need to save the world or anything too drastic, although every little helps. But why not help save the world, rid you of the red wine hangover and enjoy a really good wine all in one foul swoop? There is a massive debate about Biodynamic Wines, is it just quality wine from producers who were already producing quality wine before they went Biodynamic? Is it just a marketing tool to inflate prices? Is it a fad that will soon be forgotten about? I certainly hope not! Although some would argue that some of the Biodynamic methods are “mumbo jumbo” why question something that works. I’m not yet to be convinced that a cow horn full of cow manure being planted makes a lot of difference, but what do I know. One thing that Biodynamic wines do very well is cut out a lot of the nasty’s that go into your non biodynamic wines. This not only increases the flavour but also reduces the risk of the bad

head the morning after! To be classified as a Biodynamic wine there are a few criteria that the wine maker must achieve. Some of them will sound utterly bizarre to say the least, and there are plenty of them. One thing that is usually found, but is not compulsory, is that the vines are organic. The vineyard must be “natural” and this is where, in my eyes, Biodynamic wines help with the dreaded red wine hangover! Being natural means that there is “minimum intervention”. In other words they cannot use chemicals either in the vineyard or in the winery & using minimum additives such as sulphur. So why not give a good Biodynamic red a chance and see if you can rekindle your love of red wine again… Minus the hangover! Contact: Boutique Wine, 14, Narrowgate, Alnwick Tel: 01665 606304

Morrisons: supports game

Good news for British game as Morrisons decides to join the ‘big four’ supermarkets and stock pheasant this season. Finding game in British Supermarkets will be easier then

ever, following the announcement that Morrisons will stock pheasant for the first time this season. Three of the ‘big four’ supermarkets including Tesco now stock the bird. A spokesman for Game to Eat, the Countryside Alliance campaign to increasing the eating and enjoyment of British wild game, said “The supermarket scene looks exciting this season. We are in discussions with Morrisons about providing in store promotion support with a reciepe leaflet that will feature one of the reciepes from our new reciepe booklet. More good news for the game came last month with the launch of the Game Chef of the Year competition. The contest, which is

open to chefs around the UK, requires entrants to submit a description of the preparation and presentation of their most exciting dishes, Prizes include a night time wild boar shoot in Swedan and a Gun on a shoot in the Lammermuir Hills. Craig Stevenson of sponsors Braehead Foods said, ‘There are chefs across Britain creating and serving game in imaginative and delicious ways. It is time their efforts were recongised. Game, with its many health benefits, was once a staple diet. We want to bring back to that position of prominance. Finalists will cook in front of the judges at The Cook School, Scotland on 30th January.

reciepe: game pie Ingredients 675g/1Â˝lb mixed game meat such as pheasant, partridge, hare and rabbit, boned 225g/8oz venison steak cut into 2.5cm/1in cubes 2 tbsp sunflower oil 2 red onions, peeled and sliced 120g/4oz smoked streaky bacon, derinded and chopped 120g/4oz chestnut mushrooms, cleaned and sliced 1 clove garlic, peeled and crushed 30g/1oz plain flour 1 bay leaf 1 orange, zest and juice 1 tbsp redcurrant jelly 300ml/Â˝ pint chicken stock 300ml/Â˝ pint red wine 340g/12oz puff pastry

Salt and pepper beaten egg, for glazing Preparation method Heat a tablespoon of the oil and brown the game and venison in batches until well browned. Keep on one side. Heat the rest of the oil and cook the onions for five minutes until starting to soften. Add the garlic, bacon and mushrooms and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Stir in the flour and cook for two minutes. Season well and stir in the bay leaf, orange zest and juice, redcurrant jelly, stock and wine. Technique: Zesting citrus fruit 1:02 mins Bring to the boil, add the meat

and simmer gently for 40-50 minutes until the meat is tender. Cool. Heat the oven to 200C/400F/ Gas 6. Put the meat mixture in a pie dish. Roll out the pastry to make a lid and attach to the dish. Decorate with the pastry trimmings and cut a steam hole in the centre. Glaze with beaten egg. Technique: Covering a pie with a pastry lid 2:11 mins Bake for 20 minutes and then reduce the heat to 180C/350F/Gas 4 for 30 minutes until the pastry is golden and risen and the filling is piping hot.

food

an afternoon delight

all the most delicious ingredients of the season come together in this sumptuous weekend menu. by April Bowden Photographs by April Bowden

SATURDAY LUNCH Antipasti with baby tomatos, ciabatta and wild scottish smoked salmon.

The Baltic: Six crusty.

SIX is a restaurant with undoubted wow factor. Named due to its rooftop perch on the sixth floor of the iconic modern art gallery, The Batlic. It offers breathtaking views of the River Tyne and the Newcastle cityscape. It’s certainly a room with a heady view. And the ladies loos must surely offer some of the best views in the North East. Floor-to-ceiling windows by the washbasins offer dramatic, sweeping views up the Tyne. The two of us went out for a Saturday supper – were delighted to see the restaurant was busy, many diners no doubt combining a meal with a tour of the exhibits of the Turner Prize finalists. Our duo had already seen the artwork on a previous visit and were busy chewing the fat over the merits of this artist and that artist whilst working through a bowl of good white bread, warm and

Our table was well positioned just by the floor-to-ceiling window, with its bird’s eye views of the river, Newcastle Quayside and the Millennium Bridge. The food on offer is contemporary British, fresh and seasonal, and looked to be at its imaginative best. We drank wines by the glass, and noted there was a very good choice on offer. It was Prosecco (Vetriano, Italy) for me, £ 5.95 per 125ml, a pinot noir 2009 (L’Aristocrate, France), £5.10 for 175ml and light Sauvignon Blanc 2010, (Finca El Picador, Chile) £5.10 for 175ml, for my friend who was nursing a hangover from the previous evening’s excesses. Our starters arrived and so artistic looking were they that someone quipped they were worthy of a Turner prize. My smoked mackerel pate with

croutons, beetroot and chutney, £4, looked fresh and appetising; the pate was smooth, soft and creamy, full of fishy flavour with a hint of lemon, and contrasted beautifully with the paper-thin slices of toasty white bread, which I obligingly piled high. Another starter dish of smoked trout, with horseradish cream and beetroot, £8.50, had a delightful pinky tinge and was delicately smoky, the horseradish, a subtle condiment, not too overpowering, all accompanied by a tangle of curly frisee and mixed leaves. The weather was pretty dreary, grey and overcast this

particular day, but a happy burr had descended on our table. The restaurant’s decor is simple, modern, very pared back in style; huge picture windows, black wicker chairs, wooden floors, no tablecloths, and a few leafy plants dotted about. I guess the idea being the views are all – so the restaurant does not want to detract from those. Although one companion did say he found the restaurant slightly on the noisy side and echoey. The mellow mood continued when the mains arrived. My choice of pan-fried salmon, puy lentils, root vegetable puree and red wine jus, £10, was appealing on the eye, an interesting plate of colours and textures. The salmon fillet, pinky flesh perfectly cooked, with crispy skin, surrounded by deliciously crunchy lentils, dark green in colour with a slight peppery tang; the smudge

of mustard-yellow root puree was so delicious and sweet, I could have tucked into so much more. Simply heavenly. Across the table, game pie was small but perfectly formed, and accompanied by mash, and roasted root vegetables, £15.95. The pie, completely encased in pastry, was packed full of venison chunks and pheasant and rabbit morsels. It had a good, rich, gamey flavour with a dark meaty gravy, the accompanying mash was buttery and soft, the root vegetables as sweet as can be. A real winter warming dish. Finished off with winter warming desserts of plum and honey crumble, with double milk ice-cream, £4, and sticky toffee pud with salted caramel, and vanilla ice-cream, £5.50. Both were excellent, the crumble

piping hot and served up in a small ramekin, the proportions half fruit to half crumble; always pleasing to get a good crumble topping; and this was sugary, spicy and crumbly, the soft plums both sweet and tangy. The ice-cream was notably good – our reviewer, a man of discerning taste, deemed it obviously home-made. My sticky toffee pud was a hugely generous serving, home-made, rich and dark, the slightly salty caramel moat sauce surrounding it divine. We were all agreed the dishes were prepared with skill and expertise, the presentation beautiful, but not a case of style over substance. And the Daily Specials menu offers terrific value for money. This was seriously good food, and the setting elevates this into something of an experience. It may be called Six but we reckoned it scored nine out of ten on this occasion

girls guide to: Sorrento

stay:

eat:

shop:

spa:

do:

Arriving at the five star Hotel Excelsior Vittoria is an experience in itself. Just off Sorrentoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s busy central square, an avenue of orange trees and bougainvillea leads to a sea view terrace with classical busts and a private lift down to the Harbour. Rooms are elegant with balconies, antiques and marble bathrooms.

Try the Buffalo meat paccheri at Inn Buffalito, an informal pasta joint where you can eat outside on long wooden tables. For gourmet seafood, and more head to the pretty terrace at Lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Antica Trattoria.

After pounding down the narrow lanes of the old town lined with tourist shops selling lace, limoncello and huge lemons, treat your feed to some handmade leather sandals from Sandali Siniscalchi. Stock up on unconvential pasta at the Fattoria Terranova farm shop in Piazza Tasso.

Indulge in the rejuveating organic pharmacy rose quartz facial, which incorporates three masks and a blissful acupressue massage at La Serra, the spa at tge Grand Hotel Excelsior Vittoria.

A visit to the Roman ruins of Pompeii is a must - allow a full day to explore the remarkably preserved villas, shops and anphitheatres buried when Vesuvius erupteed in 79AD.

little black book Secret addresses from stylish people.

April Bowden is the Editor In Chief of percy Magazine, a magazine of fashion, sport and beauty.

Creme de La Crepe, Covent Garden, London.

“One of the Best sunday Lunches in UK.” Stag Head, West Hampstead, London.

Sarah Coggles, York.

“One of the Best Boutique Hotels in UK, The Hemmel, London.