Cotswold Homes Summer Edition 2013 by Cotswold Homes

Cotswold Homes Cotswold-Homes.com The Property & Lifestyle Magazine for the North Cotswolds

SUMMER Edition 2013

ÂŁ2.50 where sold

HOT

PROPERTY

Expert Advice, Beautiful Homes

WIN TICKETS! Big Feastival, Cornbury, Gatcombe, Cotswold Farm Park, Blenheim Palace

RAF FAIRFORD Captain Mark Phillips The Art of Eventing

Out and About This Summer

Cornbury Festival, British Festival of Eventing and much, much more...

AIR SHOW Raymond

Blanc

Passionate About Provenance

PRIVILEGE CARD OFFERS

SUPPORT LOCAL TRADE AND SAVE MONEY!

Cotswold Homes Magazine CONTENTS Competition Page Win Tickets to Local Events!

Peter Pan’s Cricket Club Say Hello to JM Barrie’s Allahakbarries

Support WellChild Summer Fair Cotswold Homes sponsors charity event

Hot Property Expert advice and beautiful homes

The Story of Cornbury Looking back on ten spectacular years

Raymond Blanc et Moi To The Manor Born

The Sky’s the Limit Planespotting at Fairford’s Air Tattoo

For the Love of Tea Putting on a Proper Tea Party

Meet Captain Mark Phillips Gatcombe’s Festival of Eventing Returns

Summer Blessings Veronica James, Area Dean of the North Cotswolds

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Cheltenham Open Studios Eyes on Art in Cheltenham

Dental Matters with Trevor Biggs 106 Keeping Children’s Teeth Free From Fillings

Gallery Owner Celia Lendis The Art of Art Investment

Stay in Shape Fitness Tips from Tim Spittle

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Asparagus Time Meet the Evesham Gras Enthusiasts

Events Extravaganza Our Pick of Top Events

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Daytripper: Evesham Lost Abbeys and Tudor Intrigue

Privilege Card Offers Get the Latest Local Deals

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Introducing Creative Cows Chuckling in Chipping Campden

Directory of Independent Cotswold Businesses Support local trade

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Editor’s WELCOME It’s that time again – the summer is when the Cotswolds really comes into its own, and we’ve got a bumper issue of local goodies to match. It’s a particularly starry issue, too – we’ve interviewed none other than celebrity chef Raymond Blanc and accomplished equestrian Captain Mark Phillips, father of Zara. With an eye to local celebrities of a different kind, we’ll also introduce you to Evesham’s resident ‘Asparamancer’ – a woman who can tell the future using asparagus spears… spooky! Kicking off our events coverage comes the ‘Story of Cornbury’ – a photographic retrospective on ten years of the headline grabbing, home grown festival.There’s plenty for you to do over the next few months so we’ve got another round of exclusive free tickets to be won, helping you get in the holiday mood. We showcase some lovely properties as well as offering insights and advice from experts in the local market place. Oh, and don’t forget to pick up your Privilege Card and support local trade by claiming all of the free offers we’ve provided! We like to save you money, too, as well as providing you with a wonderful free read! Matt Dicks, Editor, Cotswold Homes Cotswold-Homes Magazine Our next issue, Autumn 2013, will bring you more upcoming events, special offers and articles designed to showcase the very best of the area – helping you to make the most out of life in this beautiful part of the world. If you know of any exciting events, interesting people to talk to or appealing places to visit, please share your story with us by getting in touch with the editorial team. Distribution for the next issue is scheduled for the end of July. The deadline for proof-ready advertisements is the 17th of July. Membership of the Cotswold Homes Directory gives exclusive access to discounted advertising rates and the Privilege Card scheme. To speak to any of our team, phone 01608 654899 or e-mail: Marketing and sales, Collette Fairweather: collette@cotswold-homes.com Editor’s desk, Matt Dicks: matt@cotswold-homes.com Property, Karen Harrison: Karen@cotswold-homes.com Administration, Riyad Cajee: Riyad@cotswold-homes.com Design team: www.wearealias.com Cotswold-Homes.com The Property & Lifestyle Magazine for the North Cotswolds www.cotswold-homes.com

Cotswold Homes Competition

Cotswold Homes Summer Giveaway You won’t believe what we’re giving away in this issue to help you swing into summer – and entering our prize draw couldn’t be easier! ALL ENTRIES WILL BE DRAWN BY JUNE 10TH and winners notified by email/telephone SPECIAL COTSWOLD HOMES READER OFFER: DINE AT RAYMOND BLANC’S LE MANOIR The creation of French culinary master Raymond Blanc, this 32-room country hotel, nestled in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton, is the ultimate in gastronomic hideaways. Like a more perfect version of the ideal country manor, Le Manoir is somewhere you’ll never want to leave. Boasting a twoMichelin-starred restaurant and some of the most heavenly rooms and suites in the UK, a stay here is certainly an experience to remember. Cotswold Homes readers can experience Le Manoir for themselves, enjoy a glass of chilled Champagne du Manoir on arrival, followed by Raymond Blanc's 5-course lunch and coffee and petits fours. Priced at just £95.00 per person, this Cotswold Homes reader lunch is available Monday to Fridays until the 31st August 2013, subject to availability. Call reception on 0184 427 8881 to claim this exclusive offer.

WIN! 2 X CORNBURY MUSIC FESTIVAL WEEKEND PASSES (with CAMPING)! (5th-7th Jul)

WIN! 2 X FREE FAMILY PASSES TO ADAM HENSON’S COTSWOLD FARM PARK! As a Cotswold Homes exclusive, we have two pairs of family tickets to Adam’s Cotswold Farm Park to give away. E-mail admin@ cotswold-homes.com with ‘FARM PARK’ as the subject and include your contact details in case you win! Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on www.facebook. com/cotswoldhomespage. Entries must be received by June 10th 2013.

Celebrate Cornbury’s Glorious 10th in style with these two free passes, and enjoy spectacular performances from Van Morrison, Keane and Echo and the Bunnymen! To enter this draw, simply email admin@cotswold-homes.com with

‘CORNBURY’ in the subject line and include your contact details in case you win! Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on www.facebook.com/ cotswoldhomespage. Entries must be received by June 10th 2013.

like us on facebook for more chances to win! www.facebook.com/cotswoldhomespage 4

Cotswold Homes Magazine

Cotswold Homes Competition

Cotswold Homes Summer Giveaway WIN! 5 X FAMILY TICKETS FOR FESTIVAL OF BRITISH EVENTING AT GATCOMBE PARK!* (2nd – 4th Aug)

WIN! 2 X PAIRS OF TICKETS FOR THE BLENHEIM PALACE FLOWER SHOW! (21st-23rd Jun)

*EACH TICKET TO admit 2 adults + 2 CHILDREN (BETWEEN AGES 12-18) ON SATURDAY (INCLUDES PARKING). Visit the beautiful Gatcombe Park for an equestrian event unlike any other. Held at the spectacular home of the Princess Royal and her family, the festival incorporates the British Open, Intermediate and Novice Championships. Attractions include a shopping village and arena events. To enter simply email admin@ cotswold-homes.com with ‘GATCOMBE’ in the subject line – remember to include your contact details in case you win! Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on www.facebook.com/ cotswoldhomespage. Entries must be received by June 10th 2013.

WIN! 2 X PAIRS OF ADULT TICKETS TO JAMIE OLIVER’S THE BIG FEASTIVAL* (31st Aug – 1st Sep) * EACH TICKET VALID FOR BOTH DAYS OF THE EVENT

with ‘THE BIG FEASTIVAL’ in the subject line and include your contact details in case you win! Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on www.facebook.com/ cotswoldhomespage . Entries must be received by June 10th 2013.

Come and join Jamie Oliver and Alex James as food and music combine to create a world-class festival featuring Basement Jaxx, Rizzle Kicks and KT Tunstall. Don’t miss out on your chance to win these free passes! To enter this draw, email admin@cotswold-homes.com

Terms & Conditions

Entry to the competition is open to all except the employees (and their families) of Cotswold Homes or Harrison & Hardie. Winners will be drawn at random and notified via Facebook, by e-mail or by phone and may be posted on our website. No alternative prize or cash substitute is available for any of the prizes. In the event of a winner being unable to accept their prize then another winner will be drawn. This giveaway is open to residents of the UK, Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland aged 18 years or over, except employees of Cotswold Homes Magazine, their families, agents or anyone else professionally associated with the giveaway. It is a condition of entry that all rules are accepted as final and that the competitor agrees to abide by these rules.The decision of the judges is

final and no correspondence will be entered into. Entries must be submitted via the Facebook ‘Like’ system or emailed to admin@cotswold-homes.com (or as specified in entry terms of a specific prize) and entry is restricted to one per person. Late, illegible, incomplete, defaced or corrupt entries or entries sent through agencies and third parties will not be accepted. No responsibility can be held for lost entries and proof of dispatch will not be accepted as proof of receipt.The winner will be drawn at random from all entries received by the closing date and notified via Facebook message or contact details supplied. The winner will be contacted within seven days of the closing date of the prize draw. Should the Promoter be unable to contact the winner or should the winner be unable to accept the prize, the Promoter

A brand new event for Blenheim, this promises to be an essential diary date for the horticulturally inclined. This three day flower and garden show will feature over 150 floral and gardens exhibitors, a Grand Floral Marquee with RHS judges, ten garden landscapes, and lots more including food and refreshments and family activities – all set within the stunning grounds of Blenheim. To enter, simply email admin@cotswold-homes. com with ‘FLOWER SHOW’ in the subject line, including your contact details in case you win. Alternatively, you can enter by messaging us on Facebook. Entries must be received by June 10th 2013.

reserves the right to award the prize to an alternative winner, drawn in accordance with these terms and conditions. The prize is described as available on the date of publication and all prizes are subject to the terms and conditions of the supplier.The prizes do not include travel insurance, food and drink, personal expenditure, or incidental costs, other than where mentioned. All elements of the prize are non transferable and there are no cash alternatives.The winner may be required to take part in publicity. Events may occur that render the prize draw itself or the awarding of the prize impossible due to reasons beyond the control of the Promoter and accordingly the Promoter may at its absolute discretion vary or amend the promotion and the entrant agrees that no liability shall attach to the Promoter as a result thereof.

like us on facebook for more chances to win! www.facebook.com/cotswoldhomespage www.cotswold-homes.com

TICK N SEE P ETS AGE 5

WELLCHILD

Welcome to WellChild’s Summer Fair in the Cotswolds!

Held in the most lovely of locations, amongst the award-winning gardens of historic Bourton House in the beautiful Cotswold village of Bourton-on-the-Hill, the annual WellChild Summer Fair is a regular highlight of the local social calendar with all proceeds going to Cheltenham-based national children’s charity, WellChild. Sponsored by Cotswold Homes and Creed Foodservice, the event is open from 6pm to 9pm on Wednesday 15th May and again from 10am to 4pm on Thursday 16th May.

“...on Thursday there will be a range of refreshments available, including coffee, delicious lunches and Cotswold teas served all day.” Prince Harry is patron of WellChild, an organisation that has so far invested more than £20 million in ground-breaking children’s health projects aimed at improving treatment and providing the best quality of care for children and young people throughout the UK. The charity funds a unique team of WellChild Children's Nurses whose work means children with complex care needs can leave hospital and return home to their families and arranges for volunteers through its Helping Hands scheme to tackle practical projects in the homes of sick children, too.

A host of designers and artisans hand-picked from across the UK will be offering delights for all including luxury and utility clothing for adults and children, collectable jewellery, stylish items for the home and garden and delicious, gourmet foods. A range of free workshops provides lots of entertainment: bath-bomb making for pre and school age children plus, for the grown-ups - flower arranging, Farrow and Ball colour advice, wine and cheese tasting, and expert gardening tips. Tickets for admission on both days cost £6 each (or £10 for two bought in advance by calling 0845 458 8171) and include entrance to the stunning gardens. Visitors can also enjoy a special event on Wednesday, when the fair begins an evening of entertainment with renowned jazz musician Peter Gill and a sumptuous barbecue, all for just £15 a head. Kindly supplied by Creed Foodservice, the barbecue will be prepared by three great chefs - Robin Stock, Creed’s very 8

Cotswold Homes Magazine

own development chef - ex Senior Sous Chef at Whatley Manor - supported by Head Chef at the Royal Oak at Gretton, Rob Owen, and Head Chef at Monty’s in Cheltenham, Renark Cousins. Then, on Thursday there will be a range of refreshments available, including coffee, delicious lunches and Cotswold teas served all day.

Organised each year by Lucy Greaves, the event raises around £10,000 for WellChild. Chief Executive Colin Dyer says: “Please have a great day’s shopping in the knowledge that you will also be helping seriously ill children and their families across the UK. We are very grateful to Lucy and her team for organising the event.” For tickets, further information and schedule of workshops, please contact: Jess Akino – WellChild Tel: 0845 458 8171. For more information, please see www.wellchild.org.uk

WELLCHILD

CHH Design Limited

Em&Lu

Caroline Hely-Hutchinson, British designer, creates original, sophisticated porcelain. Dynamic and exuberant, limited edition designs are hand painted on tableware and gifts in stunning presentation boxes.

Adorable Children’s Pyjamas, Dressing Gowns, Bed linen, and Baby Accessories. Em&Lu’s exclusive fabric designs include Tractors, Dinosaurs, Ballerina’s, Blossom & Safari, loved by parents and children

www.chh-design.com tel 07768 937000

Hawkhill House, Nether Worton, Nr Chipping Norton, Oxon OX7 7AP Telephone: 01608 683497 Email: emma@emandlu.co.uk

G.U.D.A

Union Jack and Jill

Luxurious Pyjama bottoms/lounge pants handmade on our farm in the Cotswolds. Silk and cotton pairs, including many Liberty designs. Bamboo tops available to match

Union Jack and Jill - for gorgeous homes and cool kids everywhere. Stylish, contemporary nursery interiors which are proud to be ‘Made in Britain’! - Hooray

G.U.D.A. Lounge wear, Rough grounds Farm, Lechlade, Gloucestershire GL73EU Tel 01367-253261 www.guda.me.uk

Helen 07791 317 904 or Catherine 07793 555 021 or email sales@unionjackandjill.co.uk

Vinyl Revolution

B Gifted

The vinyl specialists for interior design. Transform your home with brilliant designs and colours! White goods, refrigerators, tables. You name it. We’ll vinyl it.

“B Gifted is an online gift shop bringing together a stunning array of Candles, Diffusers, Silk Scarves and accessories for you and your home.”

www.vinylrevolution.co.uk enquiries@vinylrevolution.co.uk Tel: 01865 589321

www.bgifted.co.uk fiona@bgifted.co.uk Telephone 0845 1165383

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CORNBURY FESTIVAL

2013 is Cornbury festival's 'Glorious Tenth', marking a whole decade of homegrown fun, family frivolity and big sounds. In this anniversary photo feature, we honour Cornbury's indomitable spirit and the legion of pre-eminent performers who have played at the festival: from the late, great Amy Winehouse through to Elvis Costello, Seasick Steve, Keane, Jools Holland, Joe Cocker, Olly murs â&#x20AC;&#x201C;and many more. Olly Murs

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CORNBURY FESTIVAL

The Line Ups 2004 – King B, James Taylor Quartet, Jools Holland, Jessica Goyder,The Overtures,The Soulbandits, Hothouse Flowers, Will Young, Blondie 2005 – The Dualers, Jonatha Brook, Purple Stacks, Bonnie Tyler, Amy Winehouse, Joe Cocker, Marshmallow, Lucie Silvas, Steve Harley & Cockney Rebel, Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain, Humphrey Lyttelton, Blue Harlem with Imelda May, Elvis Costello 2006 – Rocco Deluca, Hayseed Dixie, Deacon Blue, The Waterboys (who didn’t show as their plane got stuck) Robert Plant, Air Traffic, Get Cape Wear Cape Fly,Texas,The Pretenders, Nerina Pallot, Robyn Hitchcock,The Dualers, Kate Rusby, Circulus, Spiers & Boden, Martin Simpson, Piney Gir’s Country Roadshow.

2007 – Imelda May, Hothouse Flowers, Scott Matthews,The Proclaimers,The Waterboys, David Gray, David Ford, Kate Walsh, Bettye Lavette, Broken Family Band, Echo & The Bunnymen, Osibisa, Midlake, Suzanne Vega,The Feeling, Blondie, Seth Lakeman etc

2008 – Imelda May,The Bangles,Toots & The Maytals, Beverley Knight, Paul Simon, Nick Lowe, Carbon Silicon, Eric Bibb, Half Man Half Biscuit,The Beat,The Love Trousers,Tom Baxter, Joe Bonamassa, 10cc, Bellowhead, Crowded House, Salsa Celtica, KT Tunstall

2009 – Dodgy,The Magic Numbers, Sharleen Spiteri, Scouting For Girls,The Damned,Teddy Thompson, Peter Green,The Shortwave Set,The Sugababes,The Pretenders,The Lightning Seeds, Imelda May, Peatbog Faeries, Mary Coughlan, Eddie Reader, Stornoway

2010 – Joshua Radin, Buddy Guy, Noisettes, Squeeze, David Gray, Imelda May, Dr. John, Candi Staton, Lucinda Belle, Danny & The Champions of The World, Fisherman’s Friends, Angus & Julia Stone, Seth Lakeman, The Blockheads, Reef, Newton Faulkner,The Feeling, Jackson Browne.

2011 – The Toy Hearts, Buff Sainte Marie, Bellowhead, Ben Montague, Eliza Doolittle, Cyndi Lauper, James Blunt, Little Fish, Sainte Jude, Sophie Ellis Bextor,Vintage Trouble, Deacon Blue, Imelda May, Ray Davies,The Faces, Jack Bruce, Stackridge, Wilko Johnson, Saw Doctors, Olly Murs, Status Quo

2012 – Elvis Costello, Hugh Laurie and his Copper Bottom Band, Beth Hart, Eli Paperboy Reed, Pixie Lott,The Waterboys, Alison Moyet, James Morrison, Newton Faulkner and Jools Holland

Keane

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CORNBURY FESTIVAL

Seasick Steve

Jools Holland

"We usually support Rosy, the children's hospice and we are currently fInalizing a partnership with Save the Children. We've also supported local schools." Amy Whitehouse

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CORNBURY FESTIVAL

ulkner Newton Fa

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CORNBURY FESTIVAL

IN WK ETS

E4 TIEC E PAG S

Imelda May

Van Morrison

"...we tend to have a real balance between cool pop and the legends of music."

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CORNBURY FESTIVAL

The Creator of Cornbury We chat to director Hugh Phillimore in the anniversary year of his festival spectacular. So, it's the Glorious 10th. Has this year's anniversary extravaganza been much tougher to assemble? Funnily enough, the bill, which is usually not so easy to put together, was by some fluke actually a tiny bit easier to assemble. I've had years where it's been a real headache – typically you never end up with more than 80-95% of what you want.This year we did some market research by asking our audience which acts from previous years they'd most like to return and we managed to get a lot of those people back, including some of our preferred headliners. It's been difficult for festivals in recent years and some have been discontinued.What's the secret of Cornbury's success? I think festivals survive if you create a niche. Ours is something of a strange niche – the idea that you can create something for everyone. Cornbury is very much a family festival.The only demographic that is doesn't cater for quite as much is the 1830 year olds who want breakout, edgy stuff; we tend to have a real balance between cool pop and the legends of music.Though lots of festivals have folded recently, and some locally, research suggests that people are still very eager to go to these events - the festival experience is something completely different from normal life. How do you feel about the 'Poshstock' label that is sometimes applied to Cornbury?

"...research suggests that people are still very eager to go to these events - the festival experience is something completely different from normal life." McCartney's wedding to Heather Mills, Prince Charles' 50th...In 2005 we put on Whitney Houston and Christina Aguilera for a Russian oligarch and it covered all the losses of Cornbury for that year. I also represent Imelda May!

Actually I was talking to Mark Ellen (Former Editor of The Word and Smash Hits) about this the other day; he coined the word 'Poshstock' in one of his reviews. Initially, I was furious because I took it as an insult, but eventually I came around to thinking 'Well, that's better than Crapstock!' We were recently discussing David Cameron's appearances at Cornbury – he's still our local MP, after all – and comparing it to the idea of seeing Harold Wilson going around a festival when we were younger. It's funny how this has just become a thing, that you can see a Prime Minister at a festival with all these rock stars.

Looking back on ten years of the festival, what have been the most rewarding moments for you?

What is your background – and what do you do when you're not busy with festival business?

The following year was amazing. 2006 was the year we knew we really had something special. Robert Plant was there, which was just great. In terms of years that have been less good...We took a huge gamble in 2008 on Paul Simon. Unfortunately, he didn't do any promotion. It also rained throughout KT Tunstall and Crowded House, who nonetheless remained in high spirits, playing 'Weather with You.’

I still do two other jobs in order to help keep the festival going. I joined the music business in 1979 when I was 19, working as a talent scout. In the early eighties I set up my own business representing known artists at parties: since then we've done Elton John's wedding, Paul

I think 2005 was one of the nicest years.The sun shone all weekend, Waitrose was the sponsor, Amy Winehouse was on, before all the drugs and bad boys, she was really so sweet. Elvis Costello dedicated a song to a girl who had died in the tube bombings – the song was Robert Wyatt's 'Shipbuilding'. Humphrey Littleton played, too. He was the very first act I ever booked. We completely lost our shirts – total wipeout, I had to put my house on the market...

Do your personal tastes help you shape the Cornbury line-ups, or do you go after bands which you think will help best create this perfect family festival? It's a bit of both, really. My old bosses at the music company – who really used to terrify me – used to say 'Personal taste is a luxury I can't afford.' That's true to some extent, but at the same time as having good live family acts, we need to introduce new acts. We had this Norwegian band on one year, Katzenjammer – they were all anyone could talk about afterwards. Of course, we also need to have the legends come to play. Finally, could you tell us a little about the causes that Cornbury supports? We usually support Rosy, the children's hospice and we are currently finalizing a partnership with Save the Children. We've also supported local schools. Basically, if anyone writes in with a good enough story, we'll usually donate some tickets to be used as a prize in a fundraiser. Thank you, Hugh!

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PLANESPOTTING

yal o R s ' d for at Fair

Two months ago, USA Today included the Royal International Air Tattoo in its Top 10 of the world’s greatest airshows. Such accolades are not earned overnight.

Cotswold Homes Magazine

attoo T r i A l iona t a n r e t

The event, staged each summer at RAF Fairford in the Cotswolds since 1985, was the brainchild of a pair of air traffickers, Tim Prince and Paul Bowen, plus a few friends who shared their passion for aircraft. It was this same enthusiasm that saw the event blossom from a modest though successful event held at North Weald airfield in 1971 into what is today considered to be one of the world’s most important aviation spectacles – as well as one of the UK’s biggest and most exciting days out. One of the secrets of the Tattoo's success is its

army of volunteers, numbering around 2,000, who travel from around the world to help stage the event each year. Train drivers, teachers, police officers, kitchen fitters, former test pilots, writers and university students – all bitten by the aviation bug - return to the Cotswolds year after year to help put on this special event. By the early 1990s, the Air Tattoo had earned such an international reputation that Eastern Bloc aircraft - never before seen in the UK - arrived in the Cotswolds to take part in the airshow. 1996 saw the event receive ‘Royal’ status and in 2003, on the 100th anniversary of flight, Guinness World Records officially recognised the airshow as the biggest in the world.

PLANESPOTTING

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PLANESPOTTING

Cotswold Homes Magazine

PLANESPOTTING

Even today, the airshow’s reputation continues to grow. Last July, RAF Fairford welcomed two new nations into the Air Tattoo family – South Korea and Colombia, which became the 52nd and 53rd countries to take part in the airshow since it began. Organisers are confident that this summer’s event will include even more rarelyseen aircraft representing newly participating nations making their display debut on the Cotswolds’ largest stage. Once confirmed, they will be joined in the sevenhour flying display by aircraft such as the RAF Typhoon, the Vulcan Bomber, the Lancaster and Spitfire, barnstorming wingwalkers and aerobatic display teams – including the Red Arrows. Also scheduled are a number of never-before-seen flying formations. But these days, the Air Tattoo offers far more than a display of the world’s finest aircraft.

“Organisers are confident that this summer’s event will include even more rarely-seen aircraft representing newly participating nations make their display debut on the Cotswolds’ largest stage.”

2013 will see the airshow unveil three exciting zones on the showground – the Vintage Village, the Techno Zone and the Toys For Boys Zone each offering a range of dynamic, ground-based entertainment and hands-on activities for all the family. Three special ‘Service Stations’ have also been established across the showground hosting a range of food outlets, free wi-fi, shaded areas, official merchandise outlets, street entertainment, banking services and information points.

With this year lined up to be one of the best yet, why not fly by and see what all the fuss is about? The Royal Air Tattoo is staged in support of the RAF Charitable Trust and takes place at RAF Fairford on July 20-21. Tickets start from £40/ under-16s go free. Free parking. For a full list of all the visitor opportunities and to purchase tickets, visit airtattoo.com or call 0800 107 1940. www.cotswold-homes.com

Cotswold Shepherds Huts

Re-capture the Pastoral Idyll with a Traditional Shepherds Hut Why you should invest in one of these uniquely attractive huts

Introducing Cotswold Shepherds Huts Established in 2005 with over 70 satisfied customers situated from the shores of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall, Cotswold Shepherds Huts have been used for a variety of purposes: from lakeside retreats, children’s dens, office spaces, art studios and shooting & fishing huts to spare bedrooms, workshops and summerhouses. Cotswold Shepherds Huts are built using appropriate materials and traditional craftsmanship to reflect the style of a 19th century original hut, a design that lends itself to the landscape beautifully and can be used throughout the year. All Cotswold Shepherds Huts are individual, sustainable and practical and a worthwhile investment for the future.You can situate a hut in a secluded spot in the garden, among woods or in fields and create the perfect space to get away from it all! We spoke to hut builder Steve Hobbs to learn more about his unique business – and to find out why shepherds huts are all the rage! Hi Steve, we think your huts are fabulous.What is it that people generally seem to love about shepherd’s huts? There are many reasons why our customers have bought shepherd's huts! It's usually an emotional purchase - because they have character, people fall in love with them and find them a calming place to be in, to get away from the many distractions of modern living. Can I take a break or holiday in one? Yes you can take a holiday break in two of our huts at Burnt Ash Farm, Minchinhampton. We back onto National Trust common land, with lovely walks and a pub opposite! See www.burntashfarm.co.uk for details. Do you do huts for hire or do you currently have huts available for immediate purchase? Yes, we do have huts available for purchase right now. Sorry, we only hire out huts for magazine photoshoots and film sets! Do you restore old huts or make them up from scratch? We do restore old huts and build new ones, too. Our new-build huts come in a range of sizes and are insulated in high quality natural sheep wool, equipped with a day-bed, storage, electrics and wood burning stove, too, if required. All huts are seated on original cast iron wheels with stable door and steps and covered in corrugated galvanised tin that can be painted in your favourite colour. As well as using

traditional tin, tongue and groove pressure-treated matchboard with bevelled edge cladding can also be used externally as well as red cedar. What sort of feedback have you received? We have had a lot of positive feedback from our huts and our website over the six years we have been trading – like you, everyone seems to fall in love with the idea of a hut. (Please see www. cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk for a good look at what we do!)

Do you help move the huts after purchase? Our friendly and very helpful local haulier can deliver anywhere in the UK, including abroad, and crane hire can also be organised, with prices available upon request. Is planning permission required for your huts? Typically, shepherds huts do not require planning permission, although the potential change of use of the land may need planning permission, if for example you were to put a shepherd’s hut in an agricultural field and run a business from it. If you have any concerns, contact your local planning office to check.

"Thanks ever so much for the hut. It looks just fantastic and I'm absolutely delighted with it. It's sitting just off the lane on the way into our village and has already turned a few heads and earned lots of admiration. All the best - and thanks again" - Peter Visit www.cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk for more information and Shepherd Hut photo galleries. Cotswold Shepherds Huts Steve Hobbs Sarratt Keble Road France Lynch Nr. Stroud Gloucestershire GL6 8LN T: 01453 883515 M: 07971417177 E: enquiries@cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk www.cotswold-homes.com

DIARY OF AN EQUESTRIAN LADY

Horses for Courses Collette Fairweather meets Captain Mark Phillips

The Festival of British Eventing creator, columnist, course designer, former Olympian and father of Zara

The Captain and I sit either side of his mahogany desk. He’s just removed the mousetrap left on my seat (apparently to stop roaming dogs from hijacking the furniture) and is awaiting my first question with a cordial grin.

“Everyone said that Sydney was the best Olympics for equestrianism, but I have to say I think the Brits outdid them!”

Except it’s quite hard to focus on the matter in hand - The Festival of British Eventing - as his study is swimming with distractions. Towers of equestrian magazines lean against the desk, while the walls exhibit portraits of prized horses from the competition days. Dogs shark around my ankles, despite the Captain’s efforts to keep them in their beds, each hunting for a quick stroke. Tables are crowded with countless silver frames, documenting family triumphs – not much different from any father or grandfather’s study, except of course that this family tree is a little more renowned than most. As tempting as it may be to sneak a glance or two, I’ve been squeezed in between commitments on a Sunday afternoon, and the clock is ticking. Gatcombe’s Festival of British Eventing, presented by British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA),

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which takes place over the 2nd, 3rd and 4th of August, is unlike any other top equestrian event; it’s a fusion of top eventing, where horse and rider compete against each other in dressage, show jumping and cross-country. It also includes a host of other amusements, including a ‘Shetland Pony Grand National’, dressage to music and parades of hounds and beagles, all complemented with an extensive food hall and shopping village. “When we started, the Princess and I, we wanted to create a family day out, not just for the horse enthusiasts,” says Phillips. “So we have always tried to run a programme to create that – something for everyone. Not all the family wants to watch horses all day. We wanted to put something into a sport in which we had both had a lot of fun - and it grew from there really. “We have been running events here since 1982 –we cancelled for foot and mouth – but in more than thirty years we have not cancelled an event for weather, until this past year, where we have cancelled two in the space of six months –it sure

DIARY OF AN EQUESTRIAN LADY

doesn’t feel like global warming!” The festival plays host to almost 60,000 spectators per year. Why does he feel the estate works so well as a venue? “Gatcombe Park has the most wonderful spectator viewing; you can sit on the side of the hill and see 10-14 fences. Of course we must remember the front of the house is effectively the Princess’s front garden, so to have an event more than once a year would be quite an imposition. “But good viewing terrain is often on slopes, banks and hills, terrain that if it rains, it’s disastrous. If the ground is saturated – it’s a real problem.” This leads us on to the disaster of last year, when the excessive rain left the event coordinators with little choice but abandonment. “We cancelled last year because we couldn’t get the infrastructure in, as was the fate of so many of the big events last year. We actually carried everything in, because we could not drive around on the grass – but when it came to getting the generators, the porter cabins, the big stuff in, we couldn’t get across the ruts. “It’s very rare an event gets cancelled because of the horse, because the horse has the best fourwheel drive system in the world. It’s a devastating thing when it gets cancelled, when you have been planning from the day the last event finished.”

He stiffens slightly as he recalls the anguish over last year’s unavoidable conclusion, expressing that it wasn’t just a disappointment for him but for the whole team. He elaborates on how each member of this team make the event such a continuing success. “It took 5 years to put the right team together and now we’re a really good team. It’s almost as if I have organised myself out of a job!” Having enjoyed a hugely successful career in the saddle, Phillips’ focus is now on designing fences in the cross country element of eventing, a vocation that I’m eager to learn more about. “Next year’s course starts on the first day of the competition - hopefully we don’t produce too many fences that don’t work!” he says. “But sometimes the fences don’t give you the picture you’d like, because the good horse and the good rider have to make it look easy. Otherwise, the less experienced really struggle. So if there is a picture you’re not completely happy with you would definitely change it. Some fences are really difficult to change. The cotswold stone walls are somewhat tricky to change, you will understand.” “It’s the combination fences that change the most frequently, the fences where horses are required to jump several fences within strides of each other. The first time you ride them, they are thinking about them the second time, it may be the same as last year’s so in creeps a little complacency, and

the third time they are not necessarily giving it the respect it deserves, and that’s when you get in trouble - because this is a potentially dangerous sport.” With safety of paramount importance, how does he balance creating a course that pushes horse and rider to the edge of their capability, whilst ensuring they return home safely?

“It took 5 years to put the right team together and now we’re a really good team. It’s almost as if I have organised myself out of a job!”

IN WK ETS

E5 TIEC E PAG S

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DIARY OF AN EQUESTRIAN LADY

“If the riders really respect the fences that’s the best safety mechanism’” he replies. “It’s when they don’t respect them, when they go barrelling down to four foot of fixed timber, that when the accidents are most likely to happen.” Last year, Festival dates moved so as not to clash with the Olympics, and the Captain was actively involved in London 2012. For the past ten years, he has been chef d’equipe to the USA eventing team (placed 7th as a team), and is father to the 2012 silver medallist Zara Phillips. He is also a past team GB Olympian (taking gold in Munich 1972 and silver in Seoul in 1988). How did Greenwich compare to everything else he’s experienced?

Reflecting on his earlier remark that a course is planned as soon as the last event closes its gates, I enquire after a little rumour I’ve heard: Is it true that he might be involved in Rio 2016? “I’m on the short list to do the course in Rio,” he reveals. “But the Brazilians have been very quiet so far, and I’m a little concerned as time is ticking.” Returning to the root of the interview, he adds:

festival here at Gatcombe, the message being that last year was a huge disappointment – so we will be making up for it this year!”

The Festival of British Eventing, presented by BETA takes place at Gatcombe Park 2-4 August 2013. The box office is now open with discounted tickets available via the website. For more information go to www.gatcombe-horse.co.uk

“However, my focus at the moment is the summer

“The atmosphere was amazing, and when the Brits went round – you could hear where they were all the time as they went around the course. Everyone said that Sydney was the best Olympics for equestrianism, but I have to say I think the Brits outdid them! Atmosphere and crowd participation make a games and because we were in the centre of London we were right in the heart of it.”

“When we started, the Princess and I, we wanted to create a family day out, not just for the horse enthusiasts...”

Dates for the Diary The Fine and Country Polo Day is to be held for the fifth consecutive year at Dallas Burston Polo Club in Warwickshire on Sunday 11th July, 11am to 4pm. 5000+ guests are likely to attend what is fast becoming known as the highlight of the annual social calendar. The high profile Fine & Country Warwickshire Gold Cup will simultaneously

take place on the two premier polo pitches, also featuring a tempting food hall, prestigious exhibitors and a hog roast (always a crowd pleaser!). Guests can also either bring their own or pre-order and collect their picnic direct from the club, whilst Pimm’s and other drinks will be on sale throughout the day. Please go to www.fineandcountry.com/polo to

register for your free tickets. Whilst the event is free, there will be a minimum donation of £5.00 per car at which will be gifted to the Estate Agency Foundation which combats the causes of homelessness. Stratford Racecourse Family Day on Sunday 14th July, with the first race off at 2.00pm. Gates open from 11.00am. Bring a picnic and enjoy the free children’s entertainment in the Centre Course. Entertainment including; National Festival Circus, Static Falconry Display, Face Painters, Bouncy Castles, Circus Skills workshop and Seven National Hunt races. For further information - www.stratfordracecourse.net

Cotswold Homes Magazine

COS Art Studio

CHELTENHAM

OPEN STUDIOS 2013 8-16 JUNE With its four flagship festivals â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Jazz, Music, Science and Literature - Cheltenham has well established its cultural credentials, with all manner of luminous guest speakers conveniently organised every year into one tidy crucible.Art-lovers, however, are encouraged to roam a little further than leafy Montpellier with the welcome return of the Cheltenham Open Studios event. The concept of COS is simple: visit an artist's very own working space, talk with them, see what makes them tick, observe their process â&#x20AC;&#x201C; or even take part in a workshop.Then look at your printed trail, find someone else who interests you and take a trip over to their studio. Repeat. It's a great idea for a festival, opening eyes to the diversity of local talent. It's also had the pleasing side effect of growing and fostering a community of practising artists. At the first COS, 46 artists took part. In 2011, nearly 200 artists opened their homes to over 10,000 people. Increased funding from the Promoting Cheltenham Fund will ensure that this year's proceedings will have an even wider reach. Entirely organised by the creatives themselves, this is the eighth such biennial celebration of visual art being made in the area. From the centre of Cheltenham, the art trail radiates out as far as Twyning and Broadway in the north, Stow in the east, Elkstone to the south and Longlevens to the west.' COS13 begins this June, so make sure to pick up a programme and see what's on your doorstep.

Free art trail guides will be made available through www.cheltenhamopenstudios.org.uk and through the Cheltenham Tourist Information office.

Cotswold Homes Magazine

Cotswolds via Colombia

THE Cotswolds

VIA Colombia

Young Cotswold artist and new Open Studios exhibitor Jessica Leighton tells us how she became a painter – and shares the cultural influences that distinguish her work. Jessica Leighton doesn’t paint real places: hers is an imagined view of the agricultural countryside through the prism of her own history, coloured by her native Colombia.‘Sights, smells, feelings…’ she reflects,‘Really it’s my memory on a canvas.’ Within her textured landscapes, the patchwork familiarity of our Cotswold fields co-exists with somewhere altogether more exotic. ‘Though I left Colombia and came here when I was thirteen, it’s somewhere I feel very close too.’ Her artwork is clearly a way of connecting with this shared heritage. In fact, this reflective approach won her the accolade of being one of the five highest scoring A-Level art students in the country in 2005. But with the classroom now a distance behind her, how is she faring as an emerging artist? Interestingly, in spite of her exceptional art result, she chose not to pursue the subject at university level, instead opting to study Spanish at Bristol University. ‘The course had a strong South American angle – in the history we studied, the literature we read, in the films we watched...’ Yet her art refused to be side-lined, and whenever the opportunity arose she found herself returning to the easel. It was here that painting turned from a hobby into a commercial enterprise, as Jessica found that she was able to fund her studies through the sale of her artworks. ‘In was actually in that first A-level project that the seeds of my career were sown,’ she reflects, ‘Funnily, I do literally use sesame seeds in my work, putting them in the paint when I’m priming my canvas. It all comes back to agriculture – these dry, vast, ochre landscapes from home, from Spain and all the other places that I’ve been.’ Other, often coded symbols appear in her images, along with applied textures and fabrics. ‘Circles are a favourite of mine.To me they represent crop rotation, wholeness.’ Jessica’s earliest commissions came from friends of friends. ‘But after a while, people were saying “Oh, I like your style” and it hit me that I could elevate this, take it somewhere further. It was going beyond that doubt that everyone gets and generating more self-confidence as a practitioner.’ Having agreed a number of sales, she realised that it was time to court the galleries.

But as a graduate living in London and working gruelling hours as a PA, Jessica realised that something had to give. ‘I desperately missed this place, the rural landscape. Ironic, isn’t it, the little girl from Bogota getting homesick for the Cotswolds?’ She returned to the place where she spent her teenage years and there embarked on a series of exhibitions and shows. ‘Curiously, I’ve only actually painted with what you might call ‘Cotswold colours’ once or twice. And actually, I could barely finish [the piece]. I don’t have the same affinity with that palette.’ Taking the next step in her career, Jessica is about to participate, for the first time, in Cheltenham Open Studios, the immensely popular art trail that throws open artists’ working spaces to the public. Is she progressing according to a structured career plan? Or is she feeling her way around, stepping forward when it feels most natural? ‘No, I don’t have a plan. Starting out I felt at a disadvantage because I hadn’t been to art school – I don’t have all these letters after my name. My teacher’s advice has been very helpful, however – he advised me to find an alternative source of income, helping me to support my early career.’ Now Jessica divides her time between the studio and private Spanish lessons, with the occasional translation commissions, satisfying both her passion for language

and the visual arts. She also works to raise awareness for charity Children of Colombia, acting as a trustee. Having visited children's homes from an early age, Jessica is well aware of the importance of securing a future for the nation's most vulnerable children. Celebrity chef Prue Leith, recently interviewed by Cotswold Homes, is also a supporter of the cause, having hosted an evening in April. In Bogota, many think themselves lucky if they are able to earn a basic salary of £130 a month. Colombia is notorious for its drug trade, violence and high crime rate. However, it is also internationally acclaimed for its excellent coffee, salsa music and stunning scenery, besides famed author Gabriel Garcia Marquez and a new generation of superstars: Juan Pablo Montoya, Shakira and Juanes.You can find out more about Children of Columbia by visiting www.childrenofcolumbia.net , where visitors can also view photographs of the stunning vistas and cultures of the region. Here's wishing Jessica a successful Open Studios season and all the best in her fundraising endeavours. A little goes a long way in Bogota – so if you've got any money to spare, please do consider supporting this excellent cause. See more of Jessica's artwork at www.jessicaleighton. com and visit the Children of Colombia at www.childrenofcolombia.net www.cotswold-homes.com

Celia Lendis

“You could buy a signed David Hockney etching (an edition of 75) within your budget of £10,000-£16,000.” Photo by Martin Streets

THE ART OF ART

INVESTMENT We are moving from London to a large, traditional, Cotswold house and I want to buy a big contemporary painting as a feature piece in the dining room. I have a budget of between £10,000 and £16,000. I love the idea of having contemporary art in the house, but I’m not sure if I should go with the safer option of a more traditional painting bought at auction? Just like the houses we buy and live in, the artworks that surround us speak volumes about who we are and what is going on in our lives at any time. Many people mark a new stage in their lives, such as moving house, an anniversary or their children leaving home, with purchases of new paintings, original prints or sculptures. Purchasing a major new artwork when you move into a new place is like placing a foundation stone in your new home – it will quickly become part of your own life story and a symbol of the start of the next stage in your life. Looking at your budget and thinking about which would be a safer investment – a contemporary painting bought on the primary market or a more traditional painting bought on the secondary market – there are a number of issues to consider, but the prime factors are the quality of the work itself, the artist and their career, and how much you love the piece and want to live with it. Investing in art is not a short-term game and no 32

Cotswold Homes Magazine

matter whether you purchase on the primary or secondary market, you should not expect to see your investment increase beyond 10–15% in three to five years. However, if you have purchased soundly and wisely, then there is every chance that your investment will increase well beyond 30-40% in value over the next twenty years, and, with a bit of luck and good management by your dealer, you could see an even greater return than this. In the primary market, artists are usually working ten years ahead of the consumer market (outside the very top-end cutting edge practices that function on the basis that artist and purchaser are ‘of a moment’) and so the value and demand for most artists’ work does not ‘come up’ until a number of years after artworks have been shown for the first time. In the secondary market, early buyers (who bought in the primary market ten to twenty years ago) are starting to place their investment

works into auction and back up for sale in order to realise some of their profits from the works they bought years ago at exhibition. If buyers purchased at mid-career in the artist’s life, the return to market of these works often corresponds with the artist aging – a factor in the increase of value in the works. You could buy a signed David Hockney etching (an edition of 75) within your budget of £10,000£16,000. Yes, your work will go up in value but don’t forget that artworks bought on the secondary market are often being put up for sale when there is enough profit in it for the primary buyer to make it worthwhile selling – so you are paying fairly substantial profit to someone else, plus a seller’s commission. While there is a safety in buying in a market that has been sorted to some extent, your budget is quite small and you will struggle to find the ‘great’ works of any big name artist, thus risk paying too much for less than great work, which will not bring you a great return. Worse, you could end up with an attic full of dusty old paintings that seem out-of-date and old fashioned. However, I unashamedly follow and crusade for buying art in the primary market because I believe life is short and meant to be lived. I believe in it because I believe in artists who are original, highly skilled, engaged with the world and who spend their lives trying to see what most people are too busy to notice. Artists are pretty similar to the most successful traders and property developers, the biggest risktakers, the serious entrepreneurs – they see things differently to most people; they are fearless and put themselves on the line over and over again. They might not be motivated by the same things as the rest of us (money and security come to mind!!) but they share a drive, a fearless spirit and a pursuit of excellence, perfection, adrenaline and a very authentic and individual view of the world that you can recognise in their work. It is an energy that exists in good art and, I often find, it is what serious buyers respond to and understand without any need

Celia Lendis

Second Unit MAX 2010, Oil on Linen, 107x320cm

Tobias Keene, The Faithful, oil on canvas, 196cm x 251cm Anne Morrison, Camouflage 2008, acrylic on linen, 137cm x 122cm

for interpretation or interference by a dealer. This is why good contemporary artists often struggle selling their work when it first goes up for exhibition – it really is ahead of its time. Good artists make the images that the rest of us respond to and, often, it is only when we have seen them over and over again, mass produced by dozens of others, incorporated into advertising, become part of our world, that many people are comfortable with them. Good contemporary art, bought at exhibition in the primary market can be excellent value. You could purchase a really fantastic, large painting for your budget and know that, if you buy wisely from a reputable and knowledgeable dealer, you are coming in on the ground floor of an artist’s career. There is a very strong tradition of a group of ‘early buyers’ becoming the bedrock of an artist’s investment growth, who choose to work together over five or ten years to build the artist’s

“I know I am biased, but I would go with the contemporary art every time. Take a risk and live life fully, choose wisely and you will be well rewarded in time.” reputation, their loyalty and patronage rewarded with the choice of best works, discounts and gifted drawings, sketchbooks and an enriched life on many levels. Even global economies and selling on the Internet can’t defeat the sheer life-force of this kind of mutually respectful trading. I know I am biased, but I would go with the contemporary art every time. Take a risk and live life fully, choose wisely and you will be well rewarded in time.

Celia Lendis has more than 25 years of experience in the art world and owns a boutique contemporary art gallery in the North Cotswolds town of Moreton-in-Marsh. Established in 2010, the gallery represents artists of investment quality and international standing, along with emerging artists and those whose work is simply beautiful. Approachable, knowledgeable and passionate, we hope you will visit the gallery or website www.celialendis.com www.cotswold-homes.com

EVESHAM ASPARAGUS

Running from the 23rd of April until the 21st of June, the Vale of Evesham’s very own dedicated asparagus festival is back in style with another jam-packed calendar of delights. Take a trip around the local growers on the Asparabus, or swing by for Asparafest – ‘the horticultural answer to The Big Chill.’ Throughout the festival period the Vale goes truly aspara-mad, so grab your spears and head over to www.britishasparagusfestival.org for the lowdown on all the planned events.

To whet your appetites for 2013’s affair, we’ve scooped two of the festival’s most curious celebrities…Read on for exclusive interviews with no less than the fortune-reading ‘Asparamancer’ and Gus the Asparagus Man. Interview with the Fortune-Telling ‘Asparamancer’ (AKA Jemima Packington) Every year, Evesham showcases the unique supernatural skills of a most unusual mystic – a woman who can divine the future with nothing more than a handful of asparagus spears. We interviewed the self-styled ‘Asparamancer’ to find out how she does it – and to learn her predictions for the next year. Hi Jemima. Are you able to forecast with generic asparagus spears, or does it only work with Vale of Evesham produce? The answer is Vale of Evesham Asparagus is ALWAYS my top choice, followed by British. Can use any 'gras but accuracy is less with imported. When, and how, did you first notice you had this unique ability? I first discovered the ability as a child but didn't really get started until late teens /early twenties. Did you ever consider the name ‘Nostrasparagus’? No!!! What, in your opinion, is the best method of cooking asparagus? I love griddled asparagus, cooked for no longer than five minutes with an oil and herb dressing and some parma ham, finished with a few shavings of parmesan cheese. But I eat asparagus raw or cooked ! 34

Cotswold Homes Magazine

What has been your most eerily accurate prediction? I was the only person to predict that Gordon Brown was to be ousted as Prime Minister - almost twelve months before it happened. And which was most off the mark? Cheryl Cole's pregnancy. But I got the two Royal pregnancies right. (The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Lord and Lady Frederick Windsor both conceived their children in 2012). What is the method you use for forecasting? Casting the asparagus. Have you ever used asparagus to tell the fortune of someone famous? Yes - but confidentiality is key here. Suffice to say several TV and media personalities have had readings. Finally, what advice would you give someone seeking to become an Asparamancer? You can't seek 'it' - 'it' seeks you!

EVESHAM ASPARAGUS

Tasty Tips for 2013 – Jemima’s Predictions 1. The EU monetary system will still be problematic. Greece will leave and Spain and Portugal will consider leaving too. 2. Germany will suffer unexpected problems. Angela Merkel will be challenged.

unexpected shocking defeats. 6. British weather will be a major cause for concern throughout the year with huge extremes. 7. GB's Olympic success will form the basis of a good year for sport.

3. A high-profile couple will announce they are splitting up – much to the shock of everyone.

8. A Royal romance will lead to wedding bells.

4. There will be a significant tsunami in the Far East.

9. America will weather its current financial storm.

5. Several international political leaders will get

10. The asparagus crop will fare better this year.

Interview with Gus the Asparagus Man A walking, talking, man-sized asparagus spear, this curious fellow is Evesham's asparagus ambassador to the world. As a Cotswold Homes exclusive, we managed to grab five minutes with this esteemed spokesman between his other diplomatic appointments. Hi Gus. How did you come to be the Asparagus Man? I entered the Asparafactor and Simon Spara chose me out of all the spears. He said I was the biggest, strongest and most handsome spear he had ever seen.

What’s your favourite asparagus dish? Steamed asparagus with butter and brown bread. Can you tell us any asparagus facts? Asparagus contains no cholesterol, is very low in fat and sodium and is rich in vitamins A, E and C, folic acid, iron and potassium. It is also a natural remedy to help relieve indigestion. It also has diuretic properties. And scientists believe that asparagus may be a cure for a hangover! They have found chemicals in asparagus, which can

protect liver cells against toxins. There are minerals found in asparagus which can replace those lost through drink which can often lead to a headache. Is there a message you'd like to give our readers? To summarize: Eat lots of asparagus and you'll be as happy and as healthy as me. I look forward to meeting all your readers at the Asparagus Festival events!

And when were you appointed? Approximately 4 years ago. You’ve been spotted with St. George and Shakespeare’s ghost. Ever been snapped with anyone famous? I’ve been photographed in Buckingham Palace and the Houses of Parliament after speaking with many Members of Parliament; I’ve made a guest appearances on Countryfile, Saturday Morning Kitchen and The Food Hospital and I have appeared on the news at numerous times promoting asparagus to everyone. What exactly is so special about Vale of Evesham asparagus? The flavour, the quality – it's the best in the world.

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DAYTRIPPER

Tudor Intrigue in His toric Evesham

Cotswold Homes Magazine

DAYTRIPPER

A n awa r d - w i n n i n g n o v e l i s t ' s r e c e n t s u c c e s s t a k e s o u r i n t e r e s t t o E v e s h a m , w h e r e th e r i c h a n d p o w e r f u l A b b e y wa s d e s t r o y e d b y th e hero of her books. Whether she's collecting a prize or being attacked by the tabloids for her remarks on current royalty, author Hilary Mantel has certainly stacked up the column inches in recent times.

Evesham's almonry, itself a survivor of the dissolution, is today a heritage centre housing a vast collection of artefacts, from woolly mammoth tusks and Anglo Saxon jewellery to a vast range of tradesmen's equipment and relics from the town's mop fairs. Dating back to the 14th century, this uniquely attractive listed building also serves as the town's tourism centre. Originally the almonry served as the home of the Benedictine Almoner, who distributed alms to impoverished pilgrims and residents of Evesham.

Mantel's current fame is largely due to her double Booker-winning trilogy of historical fiction. Set in the tudor courts of Henry VIII, Mantel's recent books depict the rise (and eventual beheading) of the notorious Thomas Cromwell. A close aide of the king, Cromwell is regarded as the architect of the dissolution of the monasteries – Henry's smashing of the wealthy churches and seizure of their money, power and land. In the second book of the trilogy, Bring up the Bodies, Cromwell has already decided on how he is going to replenish the nation's coffers: 'Let us think about how we are going to pay for England, her king's great charges, the cost of charity and the cost of justice, the cost of keeping her enemies beyond her shores. From the last year he has been sure of his answer: monks, that parasite class of men, are going to provide.' Culture has generally looked pretty unfavourably on Cromwell, but Mantel's work takes a different attitude presenting him as perhaps the ultimate self-made man, a shrewd survivor and low-born social climber.Yet you don't have to travel very far to find a place where the effects of Cromwell's plotting can still be felt. On a visit to the market town of Evesham, the effects of the dismantling that he engineered are even today in evidence. Thanks to Henry VIII's smash n' grab, what was once a large and magnificent monastery complex was long ago reduced to a few surviving components. Strolling alongside Shakespeare's Avon in Monk's Park, one can look across to the bell tower and almost feel the absence of that long-vanished architecture, the grand abbey that once occupied this green space. Before its destruction, Evesham Abbey was very wealthy and influential, having prospered and grown in stature over hundreds of years until it became one of the country's pre-eminent monasteries. But, thanks to Cromwell's 'vile arts and low devices', the last true abbot of Evesham Abbey, Clement Lichfield, was forced to resign from his position, having held out against the king's agents for some years (indeed, he wrote to Cromwell in complaint of the attempts to supplant him). He left Evesham, quite unable to witness the desolation of all he had dedicated his life to build. Abbot Lichfield's so-called successor, the cellarer Philip Hawford, was by all accounts in cahoots with Cromwell, writing to him that he would 'gladly

It's here you'll find the imposing Great Chair, resettled from the lost abbey.The seat is flanked by the two wooden knights removed from the bell tower (where they would strike the bells with their halberds). Other objects tell the story of the abbey's overthrow – an annotated note in the Evesham Bible that records the very moment the abbey was suppressed, taken during Evensong on January 30th 1539.

accomplish' all of his promises when the promised 'call to preferment' came (a transfer of funds suggests Cromwell was bribed by Hawford for this favour). When Hawford was duly appointed, he swiftly surrendered everything to the king in exchange for a pension of £240 a year and later, the deanery of Worcester. The destruction began immediately. Accounts suggest that the bell tower was saved because a number of the men in the town had helped to build it. Nearby institutions had mixed fortunes: the people of Tewkesbury paid to save their abbey, whereas the abbey at Hailes was razed and today is little more than a scenic collection of arches.The so-called phial of Christ's blood which Hailes possessed, a holy relic which had made the abbey a place of pilgrimage for hundreds of years, was said to be defamed by Cromwell's commissioners as 'the blood of a duck'. In Bring up the Bodies, Cromwell's inspectors make much of false artefacts allegedly used by the monks to supplement their income: 'The commissioners go out and send him back scandals; they send him monkish manuscripts, tales of ghosts and curses, meant to keep simple people in dread.The monks have relics that make it rain or make it stop, that inhibit the growth of weeds and cure diseases of They charge for the use of them, they do not give them free to their neighbours: old bones and chips of wood, bent nails from the crucifixion of Christ.' Perhaps an effect of the abbey's loss has been Evesham's efforts to protect and chronicle its history – safeguarding not just the remnants of the abbey, but the entire heritage of the area, from Jurassic to modern times.

Equal attention is paid to the town's military and agricultural legacies.The importance of the markets to Evesham's economy over the years is well explored.Visitors can also learn plenty about the members of the Women's Land Army who settled in Evesham during the conflict and later remained as farmers’ wives, as well as the bloody battle that occurred in 1265 between Simon de Montfort and Henry III's men. (Simon was buried in the abbey, but nobody quite knows where). 'TARDIS-like' is a hackneyed phrase used to describe a small-looking but deceptively spacious property – but as far as the almonry is concerned, it's an apt comparison. Not only do its rooms seem to go on and on, but due to the nature of their contents, this place may well be as close to a time machine as you could possibly get. Objects are presented in a series of interconnecting rooms, each creaking with the weight of history.The visit is best rounded off with a stroll around the peaceful garden, where mop fair wagons and a great black cannon reside. It's exceedingly rare to find such an extensive trove of local knowledge and memorabilia, and causes one to wonder at the true scale of true scale and significance of local history.Today the town is making new progress by connecting with its own story, as evidenced by the successful rebirth of its glorious deco cinema. This all makes Evesham an essential stop-off for anybody interested in just how much things have changed in our little corner of the world. And for those of you following Mantel's Cromwell saga, keep your eyes on Stratford - the Royal Shakespeare Company is currently bringing the story to life with stage adaptations of Mantel's Wolf Hall and Bring up the Bodies.

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comedy club

'til the Cows Come Home We have a coffee and a chat with the women behind Chipping Campden's very own comedy club

Keyna and Vanessa

The Dutch humourist Victor Borge once said 'Laughter is the shortest distance between two people.' Today, his well-known remark is the maxim of Creative Cows, the comedy club currently tickling ribs in Chipping Campden. To club runners Keyna Doran and Vanessa Rigg, it's not all about the chuckles. Comedy is also a means of reuniting their community – creating a shared experience that can be both socially cohesive and personally inspiring. It's partly this philosophy that made me want to meet the pair. The other reason was simple curiosity – how do you introduce a regular comedy club to a rather rural village and make a success of it? 38

Cotswold Homes Magazine

Keyna, who MCs some of the club nights, believes that their events help restore a kind of spirit displaced by modern times. “I remember when Chipping Campden used to be really, really fun,” she says. “But in recent times, it feels different... things feel more disparate, somehow. I think we've all felt it to some degree...” The more we chat, the more it comes apparent that the success of Creative Cows rests on the creatively prosperous friendship of its founders and their shared drive to make things happen. The two have a real DIY work ethic and seem restlessly pro-active. Such is their entrepreneurial zeal that they even freely coach locals and help design their websites. Vanessa (former media buyer, copywriter and “the

''We get comedians who want to come to us because it's here that they can try out the best out of their material.''

comedy club

pretty one”, laughs Keyna) was tracked down by writer and performer Keyna a few years ago and their working partnership was born. With Keyna's knack for design and showmanship and Vanessa's flair for writing, the two made a formidable creative duo. Their ability to extend their friendliness and enthusiasm outward and encourage everyone around to join in has obviously reaped rewards. “Between the two of us, we've pretty much got the whole of Chipping Campden covered,” Vanessa says. In clinical business speak, that would probably be called 'good networking', but that expression lacks the warmth and earnest neighbourliness that they clearly have. In a place like the Cotswolds, word of mouth goes a long way, and in the time the club's been open, it's already earned itself some lifelong patrons. One audience member in their eighties has asked to be booked in “every month until the day they die.” “It's really difficult to define what sort of people come to our shows, where they come from,” says

Vanessa. “We did think about 'target markets' and things like that but, really, how can you narrow down 'people who have a sense of humour?'” So what is the Cows' big secret? A glance at previous billings shows a refreshing variety of faces. Acts might be of any ethnicity, age, ability or gender – quite unlike the homogeneity of stand-up you see on television, where the same white, male faces appear in rotation. The inclusivity of Creative Cows was a conscious decision, and it's not the only reason why so many comedians want to come across and perform in Chipping Campden. “We get comedians who want to come to us because it's here that they can try out the best out of their material.” Comedians are a clever bunch, Vanessa says, many holding university degrees. “In Campden, our audience is very intelligent and very supportive. “In some London clubs, they might be playing to as little as five people, people who might have just walked in from the street. Here people have booked in advance, so they're excited and

''In some London clubs, they might be playing to as little as five people, people who might have just walked in from the street. Here people have booked in advance, so they're excited and supportive.''

supportive. Many have lived in the city themselves, so they're a pretty metropolitan bunch, too.” To protect the spirit of comedy, it's important to Creative Cows not to censor their acts. “We do realise that not everybody wants edgy stuff, though, so we do try to create theatrical experiences, as well.” They cite the example of the much-loved Opera Dudes, who fuse highclass crooning and comedy to craft an act all of their own. “There have been people who have said things like 'Oh, it won't last any longer than a couple of months,'” reflects Keyna. “But it's been over two years now and we're still here. Besides, the people who've said those things have never once come along to see what it's about...It'd be nice if they did. Then they could see just how many people come along.” They may also see some stars in the making. With the club now hosting Edinburgh Fringe previews, it's ever more likely that club goers will catch some exciting new talent. (“Our audience have this exceptional ability to recognise which acts will go far.”). It's still relatively early days for the Creative Cows girls, but they’re already pushing out into new areas including more venues such as Comedy in the Warehouse at Sheldon’s Wine Cellars in Shipston and 'Quirky Cows', a comedy workshop for children. This is obviously something that Keyna feels very passionately about. As a child, she was “always standing in the corridor”, a hugely disaffected and “stroppy” girl deemed pretty useless by some of her teachers. She left at age 15. “I was given two choices by my career adviser: get married or become a secretary. Neither appealed.” Now she is delighted to have found a career where “being talkative and being foolish are positively encouraged.” Using her experience, she aims to help children channel their energies in the way she perhaps wishes she'd been encouraged to do. “Intelligence is so important, especially in comedy. What's really great is that there are these seriously funny kids, with this completely natural talent.” The other great benefit for children (or anyone at all) trying their hand at stand up is the surge in self-confidence that it can bring. “If you try standup, it's perhaps the most difficult thing you'll ever do. It is total exposure – there's nowhere to hide. But afterwards, it feels fantastic.” Whether standing on a stage or starting up a new business, it all takes heaps of courage and conviction – and not least the ability to defy your critics. But Creative Cows have duly stepped up to the mic – and the Cotswolds is funnier for it. For more details on the club and upcoming events, see: www.creative-cows.com www.cotswold-homes.com

Celebrity Cricket

How Peter Pan author took

Celebrity Cricket to the

Cotswolds Today the Cotswolds is world-famous as the rural retreat of some of the world's biggest stars. But it is perhaps less known that â&#x20AC;&#x201C; well over a hundred years ago â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the celebrities of the day began concentrating in a small Worcestershire village to do little more than play a few ridiculous games of cricket. Sir Arthur Conan Doyle

That Worcestershire village was Broadway, and the man responsible for it all was the diminutive Scot, J.M Barrie â&#x20AC;&#x201C; better known for writing Peter Pan than his sporting aptitude. Indeed, the short, slight Barrie may have been no great shakes at the game itself, but this didn't stop him from assembling and captaining his own crack team of celebrity chums, active between 1890 and 1913.Their name formed from a misappropriated Arabic phrase (meaning 'God is Great', rather than 'Heaven help us' as Barrie had perhaps believed), the Allahakbarries boasted some truly famous players - though all of them chiefly known for their cultural rather than athletic accomplishments. A professional dramatist and a master of theatre, Barrie made every Allahakbarrie game a big production of which he was the director. Barrie's friendly rivalry with the Broadway team captain, the beautiful American actress Mary de Navarro, was the nucleus of the Broadway tests. Barrie wasn't even the best-known author to play at the village - his starry line-up included none other than Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, creator of Sherlock Holmes, as well as many other men of great reputation, including writers, magazine editors and cartoonists. Winnie the Pooh author AA Milne, Jeeves and Wooster author P.G Wodehouse and Jerome K. Jerome were amongst those who joined the ranks of the Allahakbarries, though not all of these luminaries played at Worcestershire. Barrie

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Mar y de Navarro

Celebrity Cricket

repeatedly tried to lure H.G Wells, author of War of the Worlds and The Invisible Man, to come and play at Broadway, but Wells – resolutely disinterested in cricket – refused. Wryly honest when weighing up the merits of his team (Jerome K. Jerome was 'a great cricketer, at heart,' and another player was a 'very safe bat [when travelling] on the train' but 'loses confidence when told to go in'), Barrie must be the least likely captain in all of history. Unlike the tall, competent Conan Doyle (who often played cricket professionally, featuring in ten matches for MCC and having even bowled cricketing legend WG Grace), he was hardly the most fitting candidate for a cricketer in the first place. 'If you had met Barrie, a cricketer was about the last thing that you would have imagined him to be. For he was small, frail and sensitive, rather awkward in his movements, and there was nothing athletic in his appearance,' wrote 'junior' Allahakbarrie Philip Carr. He compensated for his stature by throwing his sizeable spirit into the game. Full of wit and mischief, he wrote ironic literature extolling the virtues and accomplishments of his team.The impishly humorous Allahakbarries C.C , stuffed full of cartoons, takes the reader on a tour of Barrie's Broadway, where he insists 'it was certainly to Broadway that Caius retired when he fled from the city. Here Caesar probably played many fine innings of a Sunday afternoon.' First editions of the book are today highly sought by collectors. His 'dear enemy' in the village, Mary de Navarro, had retired from the American theatrical circuit to Broadway at around the age of thirty, where she cultivated her musical interests and became well-known as a hostess, creating her own circle of distinguished friends – including composer Edward Elgar. (As a matter of fact, Oscar Wilde penned his very first play for her; alas, she wasn't much interested in it). It was this circle of influential painters and writers, the 'artists', which would prove the opposition for the Allahakbarries. Navarro herself bowled out Barrie in 1897, much to the amusement of all. The first 'Artists vs. Writers' match was played in the garden of Russell House, then occupied by the painter Frank Millet. Barrie and de Navarro plotted their future matches through written correspondence and planned to include 'wild sports' such as sack racing. Barrie's letters were typically playfully competitive and, as you'd expect from a writer of his stature, rather amusing.Take, for instance: '[The Allahakbarries see] a wistfulness on your face as if, after having lorded over mankind, you had at last met your match...As one captain speaking to

J.M.Barrie

“If you had met Barrie, a cricketer was about the last thing that you would have imagined him to be. For he was small, frail and sensitive, rather awkward in his movements...”

another, I would beg you not to let your team see you are hopeless of their winning. It would only demoralise them further.'

Yet in recent years the Allahakbarries have been remembered in special matches commemorating their spirit and legacy.

Later, in the same letter, he writes: '...I want to be like you in your nobler moments.Teach me your fascinating ways.Teach me to grow your face.Teach me how you manage to be born anew every morning. In short, I will make you a sporting offer. Teach me all these things, and I will teach your team how to play cricket.'

Today, Barrie's legacy is still visible in the village of Stanway. Built by John Oakey of Winchcombe, a pavillion was gifted by the author to the local cricket club (he stayed in the nearby Stanway House during the 1920s). Distinctive for its mushroom-like staddle-stone supports, the appealing structure is a fitting testament to the enthusiasm he brought to the Cotswolds.

The arrival of the Great War may have put put paid to such frolics. One Allahakbarrie met his end in that conflict - George Llewelyn Davies, one of the children said to have inspired the character of Peter Pan.The time for such escapades had passed.

The Broadway matches feature prominently in Kevin Telfer's Allahakbarrie book Peter Pan's First XI, where they are explored in greater detail than is possible here.

www.cotswold-homes.com

Annie Pearce

Summer meadows by Annie Pearce

After what has been one of the coldest springs on record we’re all longing for a beautiful summer this year and I, for one, can’t wait to feel the warmth of the sun and to hear the contented buzzing of bees and insects amongst the flowers. So in this month’s article, I’m going to hopefully inspire you to create you own bit of heaven ...... a beautiful flowering meadow. Here are just some of my favourite plants and grasses that will conjure up that meadow feel.

Annual meadows

Perennial meadow style planting

A natural wild flower meadow normally contains a high proportion of grasses, however, in annual meadows there are no grasses, just lots of gorgeous flowers as you can see, above. Due to our belated spring this year, there is still time to sow your own annual meadow.You can buy pre-prepared meadow flower mixes at local nurseries - a wonderful way to get your children involved in the preservation of our indigenous species, plus they’ll have great fun spotting all the wild insects and butterflies that will be attracted to your garden.

If you wish to create the feel of a perennial meadow you will need some well-behaved grasses to intermingle with the rest of your planting. Here are three to look out for: Sesleria autumnalis. This is an unusual evergreen grass, chartreuse in colour, happily thriving in sunshine as well as semi-shade.You can see it in the top right hand picture drifting through a mix of perennial flowers. It’s not commonly available as yet, but if you look on line there are various nurseries that sell it. Molinias are also beautiful grasses, very easy to grow

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and look after. In late summer and autumn their true beauty is revealed, when their floating, transparent seed heads catch the breeze and shimmer in the sunlight.There are many different cultivars but my favourites are Molinia Heidebraut, Molinia Transparent and Molinia Edith Dudszus. Luzula nivea. A quiet, almost unassuming, evergreen grass that happily grows in shade and looks best in spring, when it is spangled with ivory white flowers, helping to illuminate the shady areas of your garden underneath trees and shrubs.

Annie Pearce

“If you wish to create the feel of a perennial meadow you need to choose grasses that perform for at least nine months of the year...”

Perennials to evoke a meadow feel You can’t have a meadow without flowers so here are some of my favourites: Geraniums. There are so many to choose from but some of the best are Geranium Brookside, Geranium Rozanne, Geranium Patricia and Geranium Sylvaticum Mayflower. Salvias. One of the longest flowering is Salvia Amethyst but do try Salvia Caradonna, with striking dark stems and deep violet flowers, and Salvia Purple Rain.

Phlomis russeliana. This is one plant I can’t live without. It has whorls of pale primrose flowers above a mound of soft evergreen leaves and can cope with both sun and semi shade. Iris sibirica. If you have room to plant swathes of these through your borders then do, as their foliage is invaluable, looking good from early spring right through to late autumn.Their flowers are gorgeous too and if you choose a mixture of early, mid and later flowering varieties you will have flowers throughout the summer.

Have fun planting your own beautiful meadow and let’s keep our fingers crossed that we’ll have a wonderful summer in 2013!

For further help or advice, please call Annie on 07973 137808 or visit www.anniepearce.co or www.metamorphosisdesign.co.uk www.cotswold-homes.com

Ashbury House, Notgrove

O.I.E.O ÂŁ499,950

Sherbrooke, Lower Slaughter

ÂŁ399,950

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Nursery Close, Moreton in Marsh

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ÂŁ625,000

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1 Julianas Court, Blockley

£429,950

Alliston, Moreton in Marsh

£349,950

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1 Carters Leaze, Great Wolford

£315,000

1 Roundhouse Mews, Moreton in Marsh

£295,000

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Moreton in Marsh | Bourton on the Water | Mayfair | Lettings

3 St Leonards Court, Bledington

£339,950

94 Fosseway Avenue, Moreton in Marsh

£325,000

A semi detached 3/4 bedroom family home with southerly facing rear garden located in a picturesque Cotswold village with scope to extend, subject to necessary planning consent. Entrance hall | Sitting room | Kitchen | breakfast room Downstairs bedroom/dining room with ensuite shower room | Rear porch | Three first floor bedrooms | Family bathroom | Garden Parking. Available with no onward chain. EPC Rating: D

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Crows Nest, Upper Terrace, Blockley

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6 East Street, Moreton in Marsh

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Honeystones, Bourton on the Water

£499,950

Cedarwood, Stow on the Wold

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Honeysuckle Cottage, Offers Over £399,950 Stow on the Wold

1 Church Piece, Lower Swell

A rare opportunity to purchase a detached Cotswold stone four bedroom cottage, with pretty front garden and garage, offering scope for improvement. No Onward Chain Side porch with log store and cupboard | Sitting/dining room | Kitchen Pantry/utility | Garden room | Dining room/downstairs bedroom Ensuite bathroom | Three further bedrooms | One ensuite bathroom Family bathroom | Pretty front garden | Garage. EPC Rating: E

A Cotswold stone three bedroom property situated in the desirable village of Lower Swell a short distance from the church, with off road parking and generous garden. Entrance hall | Dining room | Sitting room | Kitchen/breakfast room Shower room | Conservatory | Three bedrooms | Family bathroom Garden to front, rear and side | off road parking. EPC Rating: D

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Bourton on the Water | Moreton in Marsh | Mayfair | Lettings

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Fairview House, Little Rissington

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3 Church Hill Cottage, Lower Swell

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This delightful two bedroom cottage is located within the grounds of Fosseway House, a beautiful and impressive Victorian mansion located in a secluded position nearby the town square. Entrance hall | Sitting room/dining room | Kitchen | Two bedrooms Bathroom | Courtyard garden | Garage | Off road Parking. EPC Rating: E

Harrison James & Hardie, Bourton on the Water 01451 822 977

view all our properties at harrisonjameshardie.co.uk

section HOT PROPERTY header - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

The London Market Karen Harrison

Q A

You often talk about the significance of the London market to the Cotswolds but I question whether “the London connection” is just smoke and mirrors, designed to impress vendors rather than actually to sell to London buyers – surely those who plan to buy here will look on-line and then register with local agencies? Once upon a time I would have agreed with you, for sure, and many independent agencies who hope to give the impression of national coverage refer proudly to their notional “London office” – usually nothing more than a technical presence in a posh building where the phone is answered in the agency’s name, nothing beyond that. It does the job, as you wisely surmise, as an instruction-getter but not actually of selling properties. However, our ownership of the Fine & Country brand is completely different - properly networked, this is a fee-sharing group of worldwide upper quartile independent agencies, pooling resources to provide a central London presence staffed by proper estate agents who understand how to sell. Fine & Country has captured the national and international market place so cleverly it has jostled the big boys out of place and won industry recognition over the last few years for superlative marketing skills in the vastly important London market. London buyers - encapsulating investment, cash and second-homers within that - are vital to the North Cotswolds. When I first started working in the Cotswolds twenty years ago, the revival after the last deep recession was spiked by an influx of London buyers, way in advance of the national marketplace, catching depressed local agencies completely unawares. In those days the only way to register was to phone or visit the agent, having responded to an advertisement that was a king’s ransom to place in national newspapers. Registering locally with an elderly woman called Joy (who certainly wasn’t), she informed me in lugubrious tones that the market was “completely dead, nothing happening, nothing to sell.” However, when I began to work as part of a new team in a Stow office that was itself threatened with imminent closure, we quickly realised that there were plenty of opportunities sweeping in from London, just little time for these applicants to register or to view. In a sleepy market town culture where agents were closed by Saturday lunchtime, we began opening all weekend. Our income quadrupled in the first year – two years later, mostly selling second homes to London buyers at the weekends, we had more sales each month than during the whole of 1994. Asked to manage sister branches at Moreton and Bourton, I found much the same story

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with local agents asleep to the wealth of opportunity – I spent the first few months ringing vendors to tell them to put up their prices whilst shocking competitors with the speed of our success. By 1997, the market in the Cotswolds was raging and we had by far the lion’s share. As a team we decided to become independent of the corporate in 2000, so we were able to re-invest rather than to hand these profits to share holders. We embraced new marketing methods to refine our sales techniques, anticipating not responding to change - our website www.cotswold-homes.com appeared Day One, recording 800,000 hits a month from all over the world, mostly from London, before Rightmove even existed. Nowadays, the web is how the vast majority of people begin their initial search, of course. HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE is still the only local agency accompanying viewings seven days a week but the dynamic of how people look for property has completely changed and the internet has changed our way of life, too, by allowing people to work from home. This and improved travel allows London workers to enjoy family life in the country rather than simply a weekend pad, and the choice of where they can buy has opened up. In 2009, significantly in advance of our competitors, we spotted the same pattern as the last recession - London buyers circled, hoping to pick up bargains at rock bottom prices, so we held a Cotswold Cottage and Country exhibition at Park Lane, Fine & Country. This was our second best year ever - we sold more properties than our local competitors combined, mostly to London buyers. Today the London buyer’s purse is bigger and property location more open than ever. The first viewing is now on-line – it could just as easily be a home in Hampshire, Wales, Devon or Cornwall catching their eye - and it is our London connection that ensures these buyers see our properties amongst that broad-sweep initial search. The Fine & Country licence is about planning, not hoping, that London buyers will register with us as a result - most certainly not “smoke and mirrors” but a considered, successful strategy in this particular market place. Karen Harrison is co-founder and owner of HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE estate agency, a local independent company that has enjoyed consistent success as market leaders and specialists in Residential Sales and Lettings of North Cotswold properties for well over a decade, and is the appointed agent for Fine & Country in the North Cotswolds.To speak to Karen, telephone 01608 651000 or 01451 822977 or e-mail kharrison@harrisonjameshardie.co.uk. To view properties for sale or to let, visit www.cotswold-homes.com.

HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Help To Buy Sue Ellis

Q A

I read in the Chancellor’s Budget coverage about a new scheme being launched by the Government that is designed to aid home ownership in the UK – who is this meant for and how does it work? George Osborne launched the ‘Help To Buy’ scheme in the recent budget to ‘kick start’ the housing and mortgage market and to make home ownership more accessible than it might otherwise be. The ‘Help To Buy’ scheme is actually split into two – firstly, there is the ‘Equity Loan’ scheme, aimed at newbuild properties, where only a 5% deposit will be required from the borrower. This opportunity became available from 1 April 2013, will run for the next three years and will provide £3.5 billion of investment into properties. Crucially this is now available to all borrowers, not just first time buyers, compared with the previous ‘First Buy’

1.75%, rising in line with the Retail Prices Index plus an additional 1% per year until fully repaid. The second element of the ‘Help to Buy’ scheme comes with a mortgage ‘guarantee’ offered by the Government on a proportion of the borrowing, to encourage lenders to offer mortgages to those with small deposits. This starts from January 2014 and will be open to all homeowners, subject to the usual checks, and the same property value limit of £600,000 will apply. It is also speculated that existing homeowners could use the Mortgage Guarantee to re-mortgage their current homes at lower rates. Although Help to Buy’s small print says you can’t use it to re-mortgage with your existing lender, it says nothing about re-mortgaging the same home with a new lender. Exact details as to which lenders will be participating are

George Osborne launched the ‘Help To Buy’ scheme in the recent budget to ‘kick start’ the housing and mortgage market and to make home ownership more accessible Scheme - which is good news! This is how it works: The borrower needs to find a minimum 5% of the price of the property as a deposit from their own resources with the government fund providing up to another 20% through an equity loan – i.e., securing a legal interest in the property. The remaining 75% is provided through a High Street lender, by way of a mortgage. Therefore, with the government’s 20% and their own 5%, borrowers will get access to the more attractive mortgage rates that otherwise are only available to those with a 25% deposit to put down. There is a cap of £600,000 on the price of the property, so it is designed for the lower end of the property market. The Government’s ‘loan’ can be repaid at any time and is interest free for the first five years, thereafter charged at

still unclear at the time of writing, however it is expected that most major lenders will be involved. For more information, either go directly to a major builder like Bovis Homes at Upper Rissington, as they will be fully versed in the new build scheme, or visit an independent financial consultant to find out whether you could benefit on your purchase of an existing property or a re-mortgage, potentially. Sue Ellis works alongside Johnny Magee as a Mortgage Broker at Jem Financial Planning. The team has 43 years experience in investment, retirement and inheritance planning, mortgages, protection and general insurance. To speak to Sue or Johnny, telephone 01386 840777 or visit www.johnny-magee.co.uk.

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HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Tradition and Innovation Robert Hamilton

Q A

We were confused by EPC graphs but in purchasing a Cotswold cottage in October last year, it seems we blithely accepted the equivalent of burning ten-pound notes in an open grate. What is your advice to ensure that our beloved but costly home is more energy-efficient next winter?

for example, we have been using Dr Heat logs in our seventeenth century cottage – made from sustainable Miscanthus and other natural wood products, the range includes barbecue briquettes and their firelighters are a delightful pink, smelling like pot pourri rather than paraffin! For suppliers visit www.rlasustainables.com.

Many energy-saving measures were instigated by New Labour as a result of the first Kyoto Energy Conference, the trigger for Energy Assessment, EPCs, Home Seller Packs and Ratings from Level A to G on nearly everything from cars to homes and Rates of Council Tax Bands. However, the notion of energy-saving is one thing for the world of climate change and politics but quite another for home owners, when it comes to paying for the increasing cost of fuel to keep the home warm and comfortable.

Newly fashionable wood-burning stoves offer all the comfort and radiant warmth of open fire but have two distinct advantages: capability and safety. With an open fire the majority of heat escapes up the chimney but stoves are around 85% efficient and sometimes use fan-assisted technology to push more heat back into the room. What was normal back in the 1930s but has fallen out of fashion is a back boiler. Renowned inventor and agricultural engineer Archie Kidd was my mentor in the 1970s and his son still runs the company – making very high efficiency boilers by using the hot flue gases to pre-heat water, they invented a basket grate made of tubular steel to circulate hot air by convection.

Interestingly, even now the EPC graph and Energy Assessment available on all homes that are offered to rent or to buy is largely ignored and in the majority of sales, the buyer does not even ask for the energy assessor’s full report or final rationale. This may be because technology and even its language has come on too quickly for most of us to keep up - we were only just getting used to preternaturally bright quartz and halogen lighting when notoriously dull energy saving bulbs then came along, since when it seems LED (light emitting diode) lamps using the technology of the glow worm, creating lots of lumens but minimal heat and therefore still less energy, are the best way to go. It is very confusing. If you are principally concerned to buy the most energy-efficient home above all else, older properties aren’t naturally the best choice - one of the simple ways to ensure your home is efficient is to buy new, of course. Newly built houses include many more energy saving measures as standard these days, often with insulation of cavity masonry walls and timber frame technology. For example, instead of draughty single glazed leaded lights, new homes will have Fensa- specification windows with 22ml insulating ‘K” specification glass and gas fill between the panes, lasting for decades rather than the seven year maximum guaranteed industry standard since the 1980s. Beyond sensible energy-saving tips such as turning down the heating, putting on another jumper and insulating your house in the same way with blanket-lined curtains, for example, if you are looking for alternative fuel and energy-saving measures in an older property many farmers have diversified into growing timber and other crops to assist in our self-sufficiency. These also help to reduce our dependence of imported fuel – that’s nuclear power electricity imported from France as well as gas and oil, of course. This winter,

Cotswold Homes Magazine

Baxi of Preston, Lancashire have been making fire grates for almost a century - they also make excellent gas boilers and back boilers for economical heating and hot water with the added comfort of an open fire. They pioneered the Baxi So-Lo open grate for high-class houses, with a deep, steel ash container emptied weekly via an external trap door to reduce dust, with external air vents to provide cold air for combustion without creating draughts or wastage. More modern installations rarely advise buyers to consider an external air supply but this is compulsory in Switzerland, where the government is very careful about dioxin production caused by internal warmed air consumption and also insists that each stove has a minimum two year’s worth of drying logs stacked outside. I hope these tips and comments are useful to but if a specialist report on energy consumption is required I recommend a surveyor such as Green Deal, whose services are used by Central Surveying to advise on a whole raft of energy-saving measures. It might be worth getting a quote whilst warmer weather is here at last, to give you some time to prepare for the next high consumption season of Winter 2013/2014. Central Surveying has offices in the Cotswolds and Knightsbridge, specialising in independent professional surveying and property consultancy services for commercial and residential clients in the Cotswolds, South West and London. Robert Hamilton works from Naunton in the heart of the North Cotswolds. To contact Robert, telephone 07769 173233 or visit the www.centralsurveying.co.uk.

HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Buying a new home Stacey Ballinger

Q A

We are just about to put our house onto the market with a view to buying a new home not yet completed. What, from a legal point of view, might be different from purchasing in the normal residential market? When purchasing a new build property there are often many optional extras available - these can include partexchanging your existing property, Armed Forces discounts, the inclusion of various white goods, stamp duty incentives etc. - the list is endless. You will be asked to put down a reservation deposit which is often not refundable if you back out, so read the conditions of the reservation carefully before parting with any money. The form will be passed to your legal advisor, detailing what has been agreed and included/excluded in the sale. The developer is obliged to produce an EPC and Sustainability Certificate on the assessment rating of the property and a CML Disclosure of Incentives form confirming exactly what incentives (extras) have been agreed, for your mortgage lender’s information. If you decide to part-exchange, the developer will arrange for your home to be valued. You will complete the usual Property Information, Fittings and Contents Forms etc., and the Developer will also ask a series of questions about your property before making you an offer, at the same time stipulating a timescale for exchange of contracts. Do bear in mind that full market value is rarely paid for part-exchange - the Developer will need to make sure that your home can be sold on again quickly - so weigh this up against the cost and uncertainty of having to sell the property first. As legal advisors, we look at the infrastructure of the whole estate - the rights and obligations you will have as the owner of the property as well as any restrictions that may affect your ownership. We investigate who is responsible for roads and sewers, ensuring that you have adequate rights to access your property to and from the nearest public highway. We check that planning permission has been suitably granted including any conditions, whether these have been complied with, and any other planning agreements that may affect your enjoyment of the property, such as obligations with regard to affordable housing, play areas, pay for schooling, etc. We carry out various searches and report back to you - typically these

cover environmental issues, drainage issues, whether any public rights affect the property, etc. If you are taking out a mortgage to finance your purchase, we need to be in receipt of a satisfactory mortgage offer before committing you to the purchase, checking any conditions imposed and liaising with your mortgage lender on your behalf, if necessary. When investigations have concluded, as usual we report to you in detail with the legal paperwork for signature in readiness for a formal legal exchange of contracts, at which point you will need to commit a deposit (usually 10% of the purchase price). Incentives given to you by the Developer will be recorded, e.g. the addition of white goods, an allowance for stamp duty, any reservation fee paid, etc., and when contracts have formally been exchanged you are then legally committed to the purchase. It may be that the property has not been built by the time when contracts are formally exchanged. In this scenario a fixed moving date is not agreed but completion of the transaction will be “on notice”. The Developer will write to your legal advisor when the property is finished and typically you will have to complete the purchase around two weeks later, to give you time to visit the property and for the builders to carry out “snagging”, a list of items to sort out before you move in. It should always be borne in mind that if you are buying an unfinished property it is entirely possible that the build could take longer than you expect, so exchanging contracts with completion “on notice” can bring some uncertainty to moving dates. Before completion of the transaction you should also receive some evidence from your legal advisor that any structural guarantees will be in place at the time that you move in (the most popular guarantee is provided by the NHBC or National House-Building Council). Once your purchase has been completed, your legal advisor will ensure that any relevant stamp duty is paid on your behalf, they will inform NHBC of your ownership of the property (if applicable) and finally, they will register you as the new owner of the property at Land Registry, sending you a copy of this once completed for your records. Welcome to your New Home!

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HOT PROPERTY - ASK THE EXPERTS

Ask the experts

Home Les Burton

Q A

Improvements

We recently purchased a modern detached chalet bungalow in a village location, occupying quite a tight plot but overlooking lovely views. We have never undertaken building work and although we think the loft is potentially a good place to add value, we aren’t sure - what do you suggest is the best way to improve our home? We have many clients who ask if it is possible to improve their home and there are many ways to do so. You might create a new kitchen, family room or bedroom – something that will enhance your enjoyment as well as an investment for the future designed to increase property value in the longer term.

There might be unused or redundant spaces such as cellars and lean-to areas that could be usefully developed to create additional ground floor space – when converting the loft it’s important to maintain the balance of accommodation throughout the property, if you can. Could the space you already have be better utilised by removing what you don’t need and by simple decluttering? For example, if you have a 1970s fake fireplace surround, it’s not only cumbersome and ugly but it takes up valuable space, so get it gone!

A solution is always possible but do take into account whether the changes will allow you to stay in the property for three to five years longer than you might otherwise, because the cost of making alterations is not necessarily a simple equation of original house price plus money spent.

In our experience, most Cotswold properties would benefit from enhanced energy efficiency and increased comfort, not just more space, so visit the Energy Saving Trust website to find out what is possible - www. energysavingtrust.org.uk. Install greater amounts of insulation and upgrade your windows and doors with draft excluders, ensure they all open and close properly and fit double glazing, if possible.

Consider your own needs and what would make your own life better - another bedroom, another bathroom, a family room or a hobby area, perhaps? It’s sensible not only to seek the advice of professionals regarding build cost and design but also to ask the estate agent who sold you the property before you start work, especially if improved value is your main intention.

Remember that your home might be affected by planning restrictions even if it is modern, so check with the local council regarding what you are thinking.Your architect will be able to help you with the planning applications but do remember to get approval before you start!

We would advise any client that the best place to begin is by studying the building carefully, taking into account its gardens and surroundings, to establish what the property has to offer beyond the current layout. Think about how the rooms are laid out, what the views and orientation of the house might allow you to do, how to capture the best of the sun’s warmth and natural daylight. Don’t forget to plan your garden, too. This is a room in itself, so work on the natural flow of your property to the outdoors. Make the inside connect better to the outside by installing patio doors, creating prettily landscaped areas with a pergola or a sun room, perhaps, to give shelter from the wind, to catch the sun and to enjoy the best of the garden in warmer weather,

meanwhile giving a greater sense of light and space to your home all year round.

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Lastly, you need to work out your budget before making too many grand plans. Some alterations will be easier than others and you must take account of the structure of the building– you might need supporting beams when knocking down walls, for example – so seek the advice of a structural engineer if necessary, to ensure your home is not only beautiful but safe once extended! Les Burton is a partner in Randell Burton Architects, RIBA Chartered Architects based in the Cotswolds with wide experience in carrying out works to traditional, vernacular and Listed Buildings. For more information visit www.randellburton.co.uk, contact info@randellburton.co.uk or speak directly to Les Burton on 01608 644573.

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No 1, Smith Barry Crescent

Blending vintage & modern a wonderful family home

“Upon entering, one is struck immediately by the sense of light and space. A wide reception hall leads to elegant rooms arranged over two floors with high ceilings, picture rails and large windows” 68

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No 1, Smith Barry Crescent is a superbly renovated, detached property with a newly built, self-contained, attached annexe. Offering immaculately presented, spacious and flexible accommodation, the house is situated in a generous corner plot in a quiet cul-de-sac location with landscaped gardens to all sides, set in grounds of approximately half an acre overlooking open countryside with views towards Oxfordshire. Of substantial and well-balanced proportions, afforded considerable privacy with strategic

planting of beech and coniferous hedging and discreetly shielded from view, this beautiful home is one of only two original senior officer’s houses built in the mid 1940s to this design in Upper Rissington. Owners John and Jane Pitman moved here in 2006, investing a great deal of money, time, love and care into improvements and extension. Updating sympathetically throughout with many modern comforts, retaining as much as possible of the original character, they have also built a separate wing to enable three generations of their family to enjoy life together.

No 1, Smith Barry Crescent

Upon entering, one is struck immediately by the sense of light and space. A wide reception hall leads to elegant rooms arranged over two floors with high ceilings, picture rails and large windows. The aspect of each room is designed to make the most of the sun throughout the day, east to west, and all the main rooms look out onto wonderful views. From the reception hall, glazed double doors open into the drawing room, beautifully furnished with a wood-burning stove, a spacious bay window and door leading out onto the garden, with a further pair of glazed doors opening to a separate dining room, similarly overlooking the garden and views. The adjacent kitchen has been newly furnished with a generous range of cream painted, wooden Shaker-style units and a state-of-the-art oil-fired cream enamel range cooker (complete with electric oven and hob for use in warmer weather)

and, beyond, a separate utility/ W.C. Just off the kitchen, a warm, bright and cosy breakfast/sun room has been created from the original cellar, with double patio doors leading onto a sheltered terrace beneath a pergola, perfect for summer barbecues. On the first floor, galleried stairs lead to an airy, light-filled landing with doors off to four generous bedrooms and a family bathroom. Retaining original fitted wardrobes and fitted with ceiling fans, the rooms all have lovely views - the master bedroom has a deep bay window to take full advantage of its delightful aspect and is separately served by a luxurious en-suite bathroom. Access to the annexe is gained from the reception hall via the study. Afforded privacy from the main house, the annexe is entirely selfcontained and serviced with a separate heating

system, boiler and oil tank. Suitable to provide a regular rental income or to accommodate different generations of one family as it is now, similarly, it could be used for staff or occasional guest accommodation. The whole is fitted to an extremely high standard, arranged over three floors, comprising an open plan ground floor with living room, patio doors onto the garden, plus a kitchen, utility and w.c. On the first floor are two double bedrooms, one with an en-suite bathroom and a separate family bathroom; stairs lead up from the landing to a grand master suite on the top floor, where Velux windows make the most of the stunning views. Outside, the property is approached by gravelled driveway to the side and parking area affording space for several vehicles, and then to a detached double garage with a room above, suitable perhaps as an office, teenage den or games room. www.cotswold-homes.com 69

No 1, Smith Barry Crescent

Annexe, living room

To the rear of 1 Smith Barry Crescent, the lovely gardens are meticulously maintained and some portion could easily be separated to provide private space for the annexe but currently the whole is arranged as a wide, uninterrupted space, laid mainly to lawns with well-stocked borders, enjoying a delightful open aspect over the surrounding countryside. There are, in addition, a number of outbuildings providing ample garden storage, including a summerhouse at the far end of the garden. Early viewing is unhesitatingly recommended. “When we last had the neighbouring house on the market it ended up with several competing buyers,” says Katy Hill, Branch Manager of Harrison James & Hardie’s Bourton on the Water office. “These original officers’ houses have wonderful plots in the very best location and make fantastic family homes.” To arrange an appointment to view, strictly by prior appointment, contact Fine & Country, HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE on 01451 822977, or to download full particulars simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com.

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Featuring at Chelsea Flower Show 2013

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modern and marvellous

Arosfa, in Church Westcote, £525,000

and Modern marvellous

A little stone cottage adorned with roses, a drunken thatch and a handkerchief garden is wonderful to behold, providing your pockets are deep and your family is small, but practicalities are not really part of the bargain. With half as much space and twice the bills, lusting after period and pretty is fine and dandy if you are down for a weekend in the country but it isn’t the only way to partake of the rural idyll. If you yearn after traditional village life but don’t fancy the squeeze, then modern’s the thing. Man enough to cope with all the accumulated detritus of family life and more economical, to boot, a modern house may not twang your chocolate-box heartstrings in quite the same way as you pull up your car on the sweeping driveway but it certainly delivers on all the things that matter, of comfort and convenience – doorjambs higher than your head, windows that keep out the wind, warmth beyond the immediate reach of the fireplace, a roof that

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modern and marvellous

keeps out the rain, dust-free plaster that stays put on the walls, proper stairs you can use without crampons, nothing going bump (or squeaksqueak) in the night and plenty of space to swing the cat (plus the dog, the children, their friends, your neighbours, the mother-in-law, et al). A modern house in the country is the best of both worlds â&#x20AC;&#x201C; big gardens, clean air, green fields and wide skies, without the crippling maintenance. Whether brand new at Upper Rissington or sixties chalet style in Lower Slaughter, a home in a rural setting does not have to be very old to be awesome. Character does not necessarily mean quaint, not only cottages have views to die for, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t need a nineteenth century inglenook to house an Aga or a farmyard barn to keep a chicken coop modern and marvellous and on the market right now, here is a great example. Arosfa, in Church Westcote is a detached

property priced at ÂŁ525,000, one of a pair of architect-designed homes built at the same time to a high standard in the 1970s, situated in an idyllic Cotswold hamlet with picturesque, far reaching views across surrounding countryside. Approached via a wide gravelled drive and built of reconstituted Cotswold stone with leaded light windows, the house has plenty of internal character - a solid oak front door, natural stone fireplace, polished wood floors in the living room and exposed beams above the farmhouse table in the kitchen/breakfast room. Making the most of its stunning position on the edge of the Cotswold escarpment looking out across Oxfordshire, this home is perfect for a family hoping to embrace the good life, away from the city and all the noise, hassle and rush. With well-planned ground floor accommodation including two reception rooms, kitchen/breakfast room and separate utility, there are four bedrooms and a family bathroom on the upper

floor approached by a balconied landing, the whole suffused with natural light and designed to create a sense of space throughout. Outside, with ample space to extend with a conservatory, is a raised patio peacefully contemplating a long, broad lower lawn, where - beyond the post and rail fencing - an uninterrupted landscape continues towards distant settlements. This is an ideal spot to enjoy a glass of wine, to socialise with neighbours and friends or better still, to relax in glorious solitude and to speculate on the simple joys of modern country life. To arrange an accompanied viewing of Arosfa, strictly through the Sole Agents HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE, Fine & Country, telephone the Bourton on the Water office on 01451 822 977 or to download full details, simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com.

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Michaelmas House, Lower Lemington

Michaelmas House, Lower Lemington, ÂŁ600,000

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Michaelmas House, Lower Lemington

Michaelmas House Lower Lemington something like this. Properties that come along of this quality are pretty much recession proof and still generate huge competition, of course, as there are many fewer opportunities now when you see a home completely fitting this description it’s a great buzz, and very satisfying to be given the opportunity for marketing. “When we first went out to see Michaelmas House, we knew that this property would provoke a great deal of interest but even so, you are aware of one thing above all others - to make sure to get it right. It’s vital to combine the best possible marketing with a period of intense activity - to speak to all your registered applicants really quickly whilst getting details out into the wider open market, too, to capture as many new potential applicants as you can to add to the mix. The aim is to draw in as many competing buyers to view the property in as short a time as possible, to ensure the best result for the vendor. Michaelmas House, Lower Lemington, is very unusual – not least because it offers great opportunities to extend, to improve and to renovate – but because it is the only property in its vicinity not owned by the Batsford estate. Situated in a rural position yet only a few minutes’ drive from Moreton in Marsh, Michaelmas House is a detached thatched period property in need of some renovation set within paddock land approaching 1.5 acres. Sitting by an ancient, tiny parish church overlooking single track crossroads dividing a wide common, nestling in fields belonging to the estate amongst a scattering of neighbouring properties and stone agricultural buildings, the cottage’s tired exterior hides a much more wellkept interior, with big, light rooms boasting many original features and a delightful aspect over the surrounding garden and countryside. The magical combinations of this opportunity – bags of potential in a truly rural location, benefitting from a decent parcel of land and accompanied by a reasonable price

tag - is increasingly a rare find in the North Cotswolds. Karen Harrison, who listed the property, observes: “When I first started as an estate agent in the Cotswolds during the early 90s there were perhaps half a dozen or so properties that popped up here and there during the course of every year, perhaps an old farm building or a cottage where a family had lived for many years that cried out for modernisation and extension, occupying a beautiful location in a desirable village – these were snapped up within days, always a bun fight and almost always ending in sealed bids. “Over the last twenty years listening to people describe their dream property, it’s the same wish list, again and again: a detached period stone property in need of work, situated on the edge of a village not too far from amenities, something that can be extended, with at least half an acre of garden and maybe a paddock for a horse. As an agent, you cannot help but take great delight in such rare gems and I absolutely love the feeling of anticipation when invited out to

“Despite several inches of snow that had just fallen on a bitingly cold, utterly miserable Open Day just before Easter, within 48 hours of the launch we had around twenty potential buyers who rushed out to view the moment they heard about the property. We received several formal offers the next working day, all at the asking price or above. The eventual sale price was agreed within a week, substantially in excess of the asking price, and at the time of going to press we expect exchange of contracts imminently.”

Michaelmas House was marketed by the Fine & Country department at the Moreton in Marsh branch of HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE, Fine & Country. Should you wish to talk to Karen and her team about how to go about marketing your home for sale, simply telephone 01608 651 000.

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SUPPORT LOCAL SERVICES

Court Hayes, Wyck Rissington

Support local services and businesses IN RURAL COTSWOLD VILLAGES – holidaylet your second home! Cotswold Homes talks to Andy Soye and Mat Faraday, the cofounders of Character Cottages, about how their business model has wider benefits to the local economy as well as to their clients, by converting frequently empty second homes into occasional holiday-lets.

We can’t help but notice that your business is growing from strength to strength – what inspired your unique take on the holiday let market place here in the Cotswolds?

sit empty for most of the year, putting pressure on the economic viability of many important community functions, despite the greatest efforts of residents to keep local services open.

We realised that many second homes sit empty most of the time, with some owners only managing to visit their cottage two or three times a year. A lot of local residents believe that this contributes to a weakening of traditional community spirit and impacts on local businesses, by reducing the available demand for pubs, shops and restaurants. For example, in 2012, the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) estimated that six rural pubs a week were closing across Britain.

So how does holiday letting help?

Due to its beautiful villages and countryside, as well as its proximity to London, the Cotswolds is one of the UK’s most popular locations for second homes. This means that many Cotswold villages have a high proportion of properties that 80

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High quality second homes that are available for holiday letting provide a great way for large numbers of affluent visitors to stay in local villages. This significantly increases the demand for local services and can sometimes make the difference between success and failure for local pubs and village shops. For example, a typical cottage marketed by Character Cottages and sleeping six can bring 300 visitors per annum to a village. Even assuming just a relatively small expenditure per visitor on local services, the conversion of a single second home to a holiday-let can have an incremental

SUPPORT LOCAL SERVICES

Court Hayes, Wyck Rissington

Dining Room, Wyck Beacon House

Halford House, Bourton on the Water

Bedroom, Halford House

Doesn’t holiday letting prevent owners from staying in their second homes? At Character Cottages, we believe that your home is just that – yours. We work in partnership with our owners and they can stay at their cottages as often as they want, simply by making an owner booking. Drawing Room, Wyck Beacon House

impact on a village economy measured in thousands of pounds. For villages with a high number of empty second homes, conversion to holiday-lets would positively affect the viability of maintaining local pubs and village shops. At Character Cottages, we try to ensure that all the guests who stay in our cottages are aware of local pubs, village shops and restaurants, by including detailed descriptions and links on our website, as well as providing pre-arrival information and guest packs to direct guests to local businesses, for example with the use of your Privilege Card scheme. This not only supports the local community, it also helps to generate high value guest bookings, thus benefitting cottage owners as well.

In fact, by converting an empty second home into a holiday let, owners will not only support their local village, but can turn their annual running costs into good profits, whilst their trusted housekeeper maintains close control of the quality and condition of their beloved bolt hole, making sure it’s in perfect condition for when they choose to stay. In addition to the profits that can be made from holiday letting, in helping the local community, owners also help to retain those much-loved pubs and shops for their own use on the occasions when they stay at their second home! What advice do you have for anyone considering letting out a second home? Our key advice would be to contact us first. We provide owners with a range of guidance and support, so that, if you are planning to holiday let your second home, it can take as little as two

weeks to get it ready to let. Once the property marketing has started, many owners are amazed at how quickly the bookings start to come in! If someone is considering buying a cottage for this purpose, how can you help? A great number of the cottages that we have currently on our books were introduced by HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE - as the specialist local agents in the North Cotswolds they have established a great working relationship with us. They know what is likely to be a suitable holiday let and are really good at inviting us to talk to prospective buyers. Fortunately they also have a wise head for the long game, too, and have similarly introduced a number of clients who have been trying to decide whether to sell, who are delighted to find they can hold on to their beloved property once they speak to us. So, if you are thinking about buying a holiday cottage, talk to HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE! For more information, simply visit www.character-cottages.com or telephone 08456 808029

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FOUR GREAT HOLIDAY HOMES

Four great holiday homes for under £350,000

Corner Cottage, Todenham

Clapton on the Hill £349,500

We asked Leigh Glazebrook and Steven Buchanan, of HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE, Fine & Country, to suggest a choice of potential second homes under £350,000 in the North Cotswolds, and Mat Faraday of Character Cottages to assess suitability for occasional holiday let potential.

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Leigh Glazebrook, senior sales manager at the Bourton on the Water branch, says: “My two choices for consideration are Mallards Cottage in Bourton on the Water and Newbridge Cottage in Clapton on the Hill. These propositions are at opposite ends of the scale in terms of location, depending upon what someone wants from a weekend in the Cotswolds, but both offer great holiday let potential. “Mallards Cottage, priced at £299,950, is a beautifully up-dated, mid-terraced, three bedroom stone cottage just comfortably off the centre of this most touristy of destinations. With valuable paved parking to the front and landscaped terraced courtyard, it offers plenty of attractions as a holiday home – absolutely perfect as a lock-up-and-leave, occupying a great position within walking distance of all the shops, pubs and eateries that Bourton has to offer and yet, only a few minutes stroll away, a wealth of beautiful countryside and river walks for keen nature lovers.

“Newbridge Cottage, in Clapton on the Hill is miles away from the hustle and bustle, a beautifully presented double fronted traditional cottage offered to the market at £349,500. Set in the heart of a little hamlet tucked into the side of a hill and overlooking glorious views of the Windrush valley, this is the perfect rural idyll, the antithesis of city life. Nothing more is required to do than to sit by the fire, take a walk, read a book in the sheltered peace of the lovely gardens, or simply relax and recover with friends over a bottle of wine and a home-cooked meal – my ideal weekend in the country.” Steven Buchanan, senior sales manager at Moreton in Marsh, similarly offers two quite different locations for his choices: “Both the properties I have selected are just under £350,000 - a four bedroom, Cotswold stone period cottage in the centre of Moreton in Marsh and, by contrast, a recently refurbished cottage situated in the village of Todenham, only about three miles from Moreton. For

FOUR GREAT HOLIDAY HOMES

bedroom, Corner Cottage, Todenham

living room, Corner Cottage, Todenham

the perfect getaway, both are easily accessible by taxi from the train station, with a relaxing journey from Paddington in less than two hours and regular trains back to the big city.

Mallards Cottage, Bourton on the Water, £299,950

“Evenlode Cottage in Moreton is a double fronted gabled cottage with a pretty, sheltered garden and an outbuilding that would be ideal as a home office or studio. Offering generous accommodation with masses of original character including polished wooden floors, open fireplaces, exposed beams, latch and brace doors and sloping ceilings, the owners have installed a traditionally fitted, country style kitchen/breakfast room and upstairs, a lovely bathroom with rolltop bath, perfect for enjoying a Cadbury’s Flake or a glass of wine! This cottage offers the best of both worlds, combining period charm and modern luxuries with everything you might need for a weekend away right on your doorstep. “Corner Cottage in Todenham is a three storey, three bedroomed red brick cottage, part of a little terraced row of similar period properties. www.cotswold-homes.com

FOUR GREAT HOLIDAY HOMES

Mat Faraday provides his assessment of the properties chosen by Leigh and Stephen for the holiday let market place… Mallards Cottage, Bourton on the Water • This cute, character cottage, residing in the ever popular market town of Bourton on the Water, offers an attractive proposition for would-be holiday makers. • The living space lends itself well to families and groups of friends, and the three bedrooms are a good size, comfortably sleeping 6 adults. • Completing the cottage, a smart courtyard space provides holiday makers with that prized outdoor space for summer drinks or a BBQ. A cottage like this should achieve around £30,000 to £35,000 of gross rental per annum. Newbridge Cottage, Clapton on the Hill • This is a pretty, spacious, cottage, with plenty of character, such as the inglenook fireplace, beams and vaulted ceilings, all of which appeal to Cotswold bound holiday makers • With a pretty farmhouse kitchen, comfy living room and access to a good sized garden, the cottage is well presented for holiday lets. The upstairs study area, whilst not a bedroom, could provide an additional “+1” to enhance letting performance and provide additional flexibility

Evenlode Cottage in Moreton in Marsh £349,950

This picturesque farming village has a delightful little pub - The Farriers Arms, where delicious food and local ales are on offer - you won’t even have to cook! Benefitting from its own private garden, the cottage is full of quaint original character, now arranged as an open plan ground floor layout, centrally heated with a wood burning stove and an open fire for added comfort, whilst upstairs are generous rooms with exposed wooden floors, beams and rafters,

illuminated by large leaded light windows and provided with a newly fitted bathroom and separate shower room. “Situated in a great location for long countryside walks followed by hearty pub meals in front of a roaring fire, if you also fancy a bit of culture then the Royal Shakespeare Company theatre at Stratford Upon Avon is only half an hour away.”

• Assuming the cottage can sleep five adults, then we would anticipate that this cottage could achieve approximately £30,000 gross revenue per annum Evenlode Cottage, Moreton in Marsh • This is a beautiful cottage, with a nice courtyard garden, located in the heart of the bustling market town of Moreton-in-Marsh; • With numerous character features, including wooden beams, oak floors and an open fire place, the cottage would make a very attractive holiday let; • The outbuilding could potentially be converted into a games room, or kept locked for the owner’s personal belongings; • The cottage has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, and should comfortably be able to sleep up to seven guests, enabling it to achieve approximately £35,000 to £40,000 of gross revenue. Corner Cottage, Todenham • This cottage has recently been refurbished to a high standard, perfectly in keeping with the requirements of discerning holidaymakers in the Cotswolds;

Evenlode Cottage in Moreton in Marsh £349,950

To arrange an appointment to view, strictly by prior appointment, contact Fine & Country, HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE on 01451 822 977, or to download full particulars simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com. 84

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• The open plan layout of the downstairs space, the many character features, including an open fire and a wood burning stove, plus the courtyard garden with views of the church, should ensure that the cottage would be popular all year round; • Comfortably sleeping six guests, with two bathrooms, we would expect Corner Cottage to achieve approximately £30,000 to £35,000 of gross revenue.

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A A Picture postcard cotswold cottage

Picture Postcard Cotswold Cottage

Emily’s Cottage at Ebrington - £695,000

Emily’s Cottage is a thatched, period Cotswold stone terraced property situated in the centre of the lovely village of Ebrington, near Chipping Campden. Full of traditional character including inglenook fireplaces, exposed beams and latched braced doors, the cottage enjoys an elevated position looking out over beautiful gardens and tantalising countryside views, most comfortably appreciated from an octagonal cedar summer house, strategically placed at the far end of the garden. The cottage, once part of a row of tiny workers’ cottages, now inhabits the majority of Rosebank Terrace. Internally, the rooms are elegantly furnished, maintained to a high standard, and arranged to facilitate a flexible lifestyle with formal and informal spaces, giving careful attention to detail and comfort, from the fully fitted oak 86

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kitchen with polished granite work surfaces and a wonderful view from the sink of the village and surrounding hills, right to the opposite end of the cottage, where a separate utility room could easily be used as a second kitchen or converted into a ground floor shower room. The centre of the house is a large formal dining room, complete with beamed ceilings and deep, latticed windows enjoying double aspect views to the village and gardens. Glazed doors lead to a conservatory, furnished informally as a warm and relaxing place to enjoy the best of the sun and the garden. Beyond the dining room, there are two delightful reception rooms - a formal sitting room and a “snug”, each with open inglenook fireplaces. Having been made from part of a row into one

large cottage, two separate staircases remain in position at opposite ends of the house – from the central dining room, one set of stairs leads up to the bedrooms in the larger part of the property, these amply provided with an en-suite bathroom and a separate shower room. Approached by a separate staircase from the opposite end of the cottage, is a galleried landing and a luxurious master bedroom suite complete with a bespoke four-poster, king-sized bed. This is a grown-up house for a couple who enjoy entertaining, certainly, but it would equally suit a family with teenage children, allowing everyone plenty of room to congregate for meals and sociable occasions but with space to enjoy a bit of peace and solitude, too. On days when the weather is good enough to sit outside, the garden is as pretty and traditional as the cottage,

A Picture postcard cotswold cottage

provided with sheltered seating and terraces to enjoy the most of the sun, the whole planted with many mature shrubs, flowering plants, roses and scented borders, with beautifully maintained lawns and heavily stocked borders designed to offer a high degree of privacy but still to enjoy views over the village to the surrounding countryside. A row of single storey stone outbuildings forms the far boundary of the garden, with a five bar gate leading to a gravelled parking area and a shared driveway that runs behind neighbouring properties. Emily’s Cottage owns three of these adjoining outbuildings, two used as garages approached from the drive and the other as a store, accessible from the garden. These might be suitable for conversion into a home office, perhaps, subject to the necessary planning consents.

The owners have had many offers over the years from keen potential buyers but unsurprisingly, with years of happy memories behind them, it has been a huge struggle to say goodbye to this most beloved cottage. Now, finally, they have decided it is time to move on and have recently purchased a property in a warmer climate. The home they leave behind offers its new owners the best of all worlds – a chocolate box pretty cottage, carefully restored and refurbished with modern home comforts inside and out, situated in a village surrounded by glorious countryside within a short drive of the jewel of Cotswold towns, Chipping Campden. As such it is an ideal second home or holiday-let property as well as a treasurable family home.

Andy Soye: “This is really the ultimate cottage for a holiday let, one that will pull the greatest eyeballs from a marketing perspective - with a quirky layout allowing different groups to occupy separate spaces, perfect for multi-generational gatherings at Christmas time, it could sleep 6 + 2. Close to the fairy tale charm of Chipping Campden, an award-winning gastro pub less than five minutes walk away and a small farm shop in the village, undoubtedly it would be a success, likely to gross around £45,000 per annum.” To arrange an accompanied viewing of Emily’s Cottage, strictly through the Sole Agents HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE, Fine & Country, telephone the Moreton in Marsh office on 01608 651 000 or to download full details, simply visit www.cotswold-homes.com.

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Raymond Blanc

Raymond

B lan c L e M ano i r e t Mo i

Collette Fairweather takes a tour of Le Manoir and catches Raymond Blanc in typically passionate mood Le Manoir stands proudly in the heart of Great Milton in Oxfordshire, its soft, classical facade drawing you up the meticulously manicured driveway. Constructed by a Norman nobleman, the original building dates back to the early 1300s. In the long years since it has hosted the likes of Oliver Cromwell before ultimately capturing the attentions of another illustrious Frenchman, initiating its conversion from private home to hotel in the mid 1980s. As I pass through the double doors into the reception, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m greeted with the ear-to-ear smiles typical of any two Michelin starred hotel (the coveted stars held for over twenty eight years now). With plenty of time at my disposal, I am taken the scenic route to his private office. Guided through a myriad of passages, we thread through the kitchens the very engines of the building - interrupting a host of chefs, teachers, pupils, and waiters en route to the office of Monsieur Raymond Blanc. I hear him before I see him, that unmistakable accent filling up the hallway. Despite his 63 years, he could pass for a man ten years his junior â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the opposite

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Raymond Blanc

of the majority who have carved a career in such a gruelling profession. His glasses are perched on the end of his nose, and he is dressed ready for service, standing in chef ’s whites with his name embroidered in blue above his left breast pocket.Today he also wears a scarf wrapped closely about his neck – it’s obvious he is suffering from a lingering cold, and is perhaps struggling to conceal this inconvenience. As he nods his way through my interview plan, I hope his famous enthusiasm won’t be dented. First on my mind is Le Manoir’s journey, of its transformation from manor to Le Manoir. “It looked beautiful from the outside, but inside...” he remarks, remembering the former condition of his prestigious hotel “…Wet rot, dry rot, electrics that hadn’t been changed since 1920 and plumbing dating from 1880, or something like that.You find the foundations have to be redone, that the roof has to be redone...And then you find the serious problems... which is really going to give you a few heart attacks, it’s been tough, very demanding.” I enquire about the interiors, which are all so terribly chic, reserving centre stage for the service and of course the cuisine itself. For a house of its long years, there’s nothing stuffy about Le Manoir. “I wanted to create a quietly modern place, modern classic in all of it facets. I hated the idea of a manor house, with its ancestors looking down at you and disapproving, I hated the thick carpet and the bellows and swallows and all this...I like modernity, clean and stress free. “I wanted also to create an environment which was about fun, celebration, holding hands, playing

“When we buy an apple, we make a political choice, an economical choice, a socioeconomic choice; we are making an environmental choice, a taste choice, and a health choice.” the footsies under the table, an environment where people could really celebrate their lives, their happiness, and not a place where the protocol of the table murders every little ounce of pleasure.

stress, so for me this place is all about escapism, about having your loved ones around the table, taking your lover to the most beautiful room, that is what it is all about.

“My pride and joy was to create a republican place, where firstly I removed the gentlemen’s jackets, undo the tie, so my British friends could breathe, enjoy themselves and celebrate. Actively welcoming children was my second part, I had to fight the food writers, had to fight the travel writers, my managers; all who could not understand why I wanted these little hooligans in a place of gastronomy.”

“Every luxury should be for everyone, I hate the idea of elitism - it’s bourgeois, it’s so boring, so predictable, you are bored when you are in those places, bored to death. “Luxury should be inclusive, not exclusive.” Onto the gardens, then, which like everything else at Le Manoir reflect his philosophy.

Raymond is heating up.Turning to me, he reiterates: “I hate the idea of gastronomy being a temple.” He pauses, leaving just enough time for his message to sink in, before adding: “My God, life is so full of servitude, of pressure and

“For me, the garden is the most extraordinary place, and before I started renovations on the house itself, we started the garden. Me and my Papa, who made me work in his garden all through my childhood. For me it is essential - we have eleven gardens at Le Manoir. All inspired by my travels, marvellous people I have met, the landscapes I have seen, www.cotswold-homes.com

Raymond Blanc

stories I have heard, and they are really special. The medicinal herb garden is going to become a big thing - developing infusions, which will help with the digestion, the skin, the mood. That will create some beautiful cures, which will also add something to a dish. “I tell you the difference in culture between France and England: The British have the majority of their gardens as a beautifully tended vegetable garden and a tiny scrappy bit of lawn, whereas in France, it’s the complete opposite! “We are just finishing an orchard of 3000 trees, which tells you a wonderful story about what we have lost in this country, and what we could regain. Our orchards are a great example.

“Food for me should never be part of a social divider; on the contrary, to me food is a communion.”

“Gardens are not only the provider of magic on your tables, but encapsulate the philosophy of seasonality, of nobility, of purity. It’s about your soul, your inner warmth, your earth, it’s about your sense of place.” So much for gardens – has he thought about starting a farm? “Yes, I will have a farm. It’s all on the plans and the person I want to work with, maybe I shouldn’t say...but, yes there will be rare breed of farm, to celebrate basically all that is beautiful in England, all the beautiful rare breeds.” He halts abruptly, bringing a finger to his mouth to stop himself; he looks sheepishly at me, like a little boy caught with his fingers in the biscuit tin. I take an educated guess as to whom his secret collaborator must be and reluctantly he relents. “I met with Adam (Countryfile’s Adam Henson), it is meant to happen, and it will happen. I invited him to talk, and he stayed for dinner.” How very French! He continues: “We must grow more of our food.That is what interests me, I am a Frenchman, I champion local values.” It’s clear there is something other than that pesky cold that he wishes to get off his chest. Raymond leans forward in his chair, his simmering passion

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Raymond Blanc

REA OF DER

FER

SEE PAG E4

“This horsemeat scenario is A good way to start really controlling our food chain.”

reaching boiling point. ‘It’s about time we reinvent our agriculture, our produce, our craft. “In Britain we made some terrible choices. In agriculture, its been a disaster, our industry became too intensive, coloured by processing over detailing, and over marketing, reducing food to a mere commodity. “So only now, after all this excessiveness, this carelessness, where food was so unimportant, so separated from life, from our health, environment and our family life - where food became a cheap convenience. Now we are reconnecting. About time too.” I feel like I could spin sugar with the heat of his enthusiasm. His hands are just as articulate as his words, dancing wildly before my face. I should lean back but I’m drawn to him - I’m caught, hook, line and sinker, drawn to the passion of his cause. I’m witnessing, first hand, the enthusiasm for which he has been so well documented.

“We have been told for 50 years that food is a cheap commodity that is all to do with filling your body, and that it lasts forever on the shelf, and that it is not connected with society.This is because we have always looked at food as being totally unimportant, it’s a convenience that is always there, you can grab it, eat it, it doesn’t matter what’s in it. We are all guilty; we all bought that cheap food, why were we never asking any questions? “ Although he exudes enough zeal to mobilise an army, the obvious rebuttal is that the common perception of healthy food is that it is costly, and the excuse of expense is a powerful argument. “But having said that, we are the country in Europe which has the most food related diseases, and we are the country that spends the least amount of money on food, about 50% less than the Spanish, French or Portuguese. “It’s such a sad thing, because I come from a working class background, it saddens me to see that actually food has become so class-led. So the crusade is to make good food everyday?

“The cost of food related illness is in the billions of pounds. We cannot go on, to eat the way we eat now, or to buy the way we buy now, we need to be responsible. I really believe knowledge, is going to drive the people’s choice. I can already see what’s happening - British guests are much more responsible, aware of the ethics.They ask: where does my food come from? What’s in it?

“Well, yes, and that you need to cook, the fact is more and more people are buying ready meals, they are watching us on the television but not cooking themselves. “I had a programme out earlier in the year and was an attempt at education, because when you can

panfry, you can create thousands of dishes simple as that. It’s so empowering.To be creative, it can be fun. As a country, we work bloody hard in every other part of our lives, but we are not used to exerting effort in cooking, it’s just another effort to nudge people, to say it’s really easy, and to please try. “So come on, it’s about time we understand the problems, that we as people take our own responsibilities, and to start educating our children, and give them some better values, as well as making food a central part of our lives” He seems satisfied, falling backwards into his chair. Turning to me, he asks: “Do you have everything you need?” I must confess I gave up trying to steer the interview after the second question. With complete honesty, I admit it has been an enlightening experience and although I have enjoyed every second (not least the delicious coffee and the supporting plate of petite fours) I had in fact failed on my mission to quiz him on the new short-courses in the cookery school. Shaking his head, he offers a neat solution: “Well, that is simple; you must come back and cook one of the courses, that is, if you wouldn’t mind writing another article?” Come back to this beautiful building, and spend the day with these delightful people, whilst learning to cook glorious food? Well, if I must. www.cotswold-homes.com

For the Love of Tea

For the Love of Tea - Get on the Green with Our Tea Party Pointers -

It’s a terrible shame that, with our 21st century schedules, we’ve fallen out of the practice of taking long and luxurious tea parties, when in some countries people still treat the art of drinking tea with all the respect and ceremony it rightfully deserves. With the long-awaited arrival of another Cotswold summer, why not take the occasion to create a fabulously frivolous tea party all of your own? Keep the plates small, as you won’t be having a large meal. Also, given the mid-boggling variety of teas available today, it would be fitting to have a selection of blends available, rather than simply coasting on black. Loose leaves (as opposed to teabags) served from a teapot tend to result in tastier teas.

Fabulous Themes Few things are more fun than a fabulously themed party.You might want to look to the past for (the Victorian age, for instance) or to other cultures for inspiration.

Remember to stock sweeteners and noninflammatory grub for any allergic guests (better ask around for special dietary requirements before you buy in).

Perhaps your theme will be dictated by a particular date or season, or you could unleash your inner child with a fairytale or 'Mad Hatter'-type shindig. Alternatively, a loose 'vintage' theme is a safe option. Your theme should dictate the dress code, which there may well as be if you're going to have a theme.

As tea is relished around the world, you may wish to go cultural and introduce foreign food to accompany more exotic brews. We've included some notes on international tea ceremonies to inspire you.

An Invitation to Remember In the tea parties of old, invitations were often written. Invest in some sumptuous stationary and make out your invitations in your finest handwriting. Or improvise and create something truly inventive according to your chosen theme. Either way, make it a visual announcement for how splendid your tea party is going to be.

A Terribly Good Cause

Morsels and Mouthfuls Traditional tea parties were more intimate affairs, thrown for smaller numbers of friends, and chit-chat took precedence over food. Sweet finger foods and nibbles and are the way to go; if you’re galled by the prospect of a baking marathon, or just a bit short on pennies, then do get tricky: dip the tips of strawberries in melted chocolate and find other such shortcuts. 98

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‘There are few hours in life more agreeable than the hour dedicated to the ceremony known as afternoon tea.' - Henry James, The Portrait of a Lady

If you can get some cash together for an excellent cause whilst having a wonderful time, then that’s a real result. Whether it’s a whip-around for a local school bus fund, or a contribution to your favourite charity, giving is good and will help you feel better about eating all those chocolate covered strawberries. See www.charitychoice.co.uk/charities for a list of registered charities.

Save the Date Sadly, weekday afternoons are no longer the optimum time for tea partying.You may have to do some research to find out the best time for all

For the Love of Tea

‘Another novelty is the tea-party, an extraordinary meal in that, being offered to persons that have already dined well, it supposes neither appetite nor thirst, and has no object but distraction, no basis but delicate enjoyment.’ - Jean-Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, The Physiology of Taste

involved (before you pen those luxurious invites). No point in throwing the best tea party ever if half of your guests are away on work conferences, is there?

Entertainment & Merriment As we’re in a rural area, and benefit from the option of hosting our festivities outside, one could always co-opt some of the traditional games played at local fetes and festivals. Think skittles and Aunt Sally as opposed to shin-kicking and cheese-rolling.

Excellent Etiquette Excellent hostessing is crucial to a successful tea party. Guests should naturally be greeted warmly and those who do not know each other should be introduced. Keep an eye on the beverages and serve guests according to their preferences (remember to add sugar before lemon). As far as food is concerned, guests should be encouraged to serve themselves. If you will be seating guests, make sure there are enough tables/chairs and no centrepieces at eye-level.

Perfect Presentation Don’t just haul out a plywood table and bung a bunch of cakes on top! See all the trappings of the tea party – tablecloths, doilies, teapots, cups – as absolutely essential to establishing the atmosphere of your party. Add small decorations according to theme (scattered playing cards for Wonderland; painted eggs for easter, etc.). Why not hang some patterned bunting (or make your own from fabric samples) for your special occasion? Be imaginative but keep it classy.

Arrange the food in the centre, providing napkins and plates. For flourish, create an elaborate centrepiece that reflects your chosen theme. Avoid anything too outrageous (this should help avoid food-related calamities).

Cloth or fabric is preferred to plastic when covering the table. Classic white china is a sure bet whatever the theme but try to introduce patterns and textures that match your concept. Tea sets should be arranged neatly at the end of serving table with the requisite crockery. (Don't forget to provide milk, sugar/sweeteners, lemon and hot water). If you're doing coffee, consider setting it at the other end of the table. Remember the little touches: sugar in a sugar bowl with serving tongs, rolled napkins in rings, etc.Tiered serving platters will automatically add authenticity to your efforts. www.cotswold-homes.com 99

For the Love of Tea

Tea in the East

‘I am in no way interested in immortality, but only in the taste of tea.’ - Lu T’ung

Take inspiration from these oriental tea ceremonies. Japan Unlike a chatty English tea party, a traditional Japanese tea ceremony is a masterful exercise in the arts of politeness, composure and restraint. The tea ceremony arose from philosophical ideas on the benefits and pleasures of formality. All steps have a simple elegance, and there are many customs to be observed. Many Japanese people belong to tea clubs, and the art of drinking tea remains important to many in Japanese society. In the Chanoyu tea ceremony, there is often a special room for the preparation and drinking of tea. Known as a Chashitsu, the structure often sits in a simple garden that may have green plants and a stream. 100 Cotswold Homes Magazine

China Once inside, the tea master (or ‘Teishu’) will provide guests with water to drink and to wash their hands. They will sit on the floor around a table where green tea will be served from bowls (these should be taken with the left hand and held with the right). Guests should drink all their tea, turning the bowl to the right when it is placed on the table, and turning it to the left when finished (this demonstrates respect for the tea master as it suggests he gave you the best side, but that you aren’t ‘worthy’ enough to actually drink from it!)

In China, the art of tea making is called Cha Dao. Tea is typically served from rather small clay teapots, which are usually rinsed over with boiling water before anything is brewed. Narrow cups are arranged in a circle and are filled all at once, with each cup left half-full (the rest of the cup is occupied by affection and goodwill). After first smelling the tea, the drinkers tap the table with one finger three times as a sign of gratitude, then pour the tea into a drinking cup. After smelling the empty narrow cup, they can then finally drink the tea. Such ceremonies are relaxing and sociable, with the focus on sensually savouring the tea itself.

With the onset of summer our local wildlife photographer, Guiting Power based gamekeeper Adam Tatlow, has a few exhibition dates he’d like you to jot down in your diaries: “On June 9th, pop down to Guiting Manor farms in Guiting Power for Open Farm Sunday - a great day out for all the family, giving an insight into a modern working farm with rural stalls and farm tours. On June 22nd make

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sure to visit the new and improved Guiting Power Fete and Dog Show - lots to see and do in a beautiful Cotswold setting. And then of course, there’s the Moreton in Marsh Agricultural Show on September 7th. Come and find us in Zone F just next to the Kid’s Zone!” Visit www.cotswoldkeeperphotography.com to browse Adam’s work and order exclusive prints, cards and gifts online.

Veronica James

Summer Blessings From Veronica James, Area Dean of the North Cotswolds Dear Readers, I would love to open my article with words like - 'Fabulous weather, glorious spring sunshine!' but this year we are struggling; even here, high in the Cotswolds. However, no need to be complacent and sit back, waiting for change; there is plenty on the agenda that needs attention. Not least on our list are the many church buildings that we are responsible for, caring for them week by week, month by month, to enable visitors and residents alike to spend time in and around them. And that duty also includes looking after our many churchyards, places where we wander amongst friends of the past, who are with us in our thoughts. My own ministry becomes busy with additional summer services and unexpected duties – as well as more baptisms and weddings. It is nothing less than a delight to work with families and to welcome to their special services guests from all around the world. When I’m walking through the churchyard on Sundays, just after a Saturday wedding, I feel so uplifted and inspired to see the

hint of colour from thrown confetti. I often think about the future lives these brides and grooms will share, and after having wished them Every Blessing at the previous days service, know that the church will be part of their future life together. As a priest in the Church of England, I am aware that the church has a privileged place in the country and this year we have already welcomed our new Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby. There will be plenty to read in the press about how our Established Church of England is there to provide a positive contribution to our lives, both there in the day to day, and for special occasions. Don't forget, these churches are for us all. Pop in when you are passing by - they are there for you. Have a super summer, and with Every Blessing to you all,

"When I’m walking through the churchyard on Sundays, just after a Saturday wedding, I feel so uplifted and inspired to see the hint of colour from thrown confetti."

From Veronica Revd Canon Veronica James Area Dean of the North Cotswold www.cotswold-homes.com 105

Milton Dental Practice

Dental Health

Matters

Keeping Children’s Teeth Free from Fillings

Dr Trevor Bigg, Milton Dental Practice BDS, MGDS RCS(Eng), FDS RCS(Ed), FFGDP(UK) I had several fillings by the age of 11 and would love to avoid the same traumas for my own children, who are now 2 and 4 years old. How do I make sure my child never needs a filling? With the knowledge and skill we have accumulated over the past 50 years it is now possible for a dentist to help parents succeed in that most important task, to guide a child into adulthood with a perfect, filling-free mouth.The best advice I can give you is to start early! As soon as your child’s teeth erupt, use a small soft brush with a smear of toothpaste containing fluoride, ideally in the morning after breakfast and last thing at night before bedtime. Use toothpaste with 1000 ppm (parts per million) up to three years old, changing to 1350-1500 ppm, thereafter. Supervise the brushing until your child is seven years old, checking to see all surfaces are cleaned, both teeth and gums, and that they spit out the paste without rinsing. Tooth decay is caused by sugar, some of it hidden, but the timing of when we eat sugary foods is also important. Main meals of the day are much less harmful than snacks, so try to follow these guidelines: • Use an electric toothbrush when your child is old enough. Start with a battery-driven one, changing to an adult re-chargeable toothbrush when they are 7 or 8. Brush after breakfast, because children generally like sweeter breakfast cereals and brushing with fluoride toothpaste will help prevent damage to the teeth. Clean teeth again just before bed and have nothing to eat or drink after this except water or milk. • Don’t have sweet foods mid-morning or afternoon snacks – remember that dried fruits contain lots of sugar, which is why children like them! There’s much less saliva in the mouth at these times and any sugar eaten will have a greater chance of causing decay. • ‘School Dinners’ are generally well balanced, particularly if Jamie Oliver has his way! The traditional pudding does little harm but if your child 106 Cotswold Homes Magazine

"Don’t have sweet FOODS mid-morning or afternoon snacks – remember that dried fruits contain lots of sugar, which is why children like them!" has a packed lunch don’t end the meal with a ‘harvest’ or ‘energy’ bar but instead finish with fruit or vegetables. Best of all, pack a piece of cheese to neutralise the acids in the mouth including processed varieties, which will suit the most difficult palate. Make sure you bring your child to the dentist when you are attending for treatment, to get them used to the surroundings, the noises and the smells! From about 3 years old, regular check-ups will enable your child to get to know and trust their dentist, so we can spot any sign of decay and check whether tooth brushing is effective. As soon as your child is old enough to cooperate, we can place fissure sealants on the permanent molar or back teeth. These are thin layers of plastic that seal the biting surface of the tooth where decay often starts and, used in conjunction with fluoride, these significantly reduce the risk of decay. If after all your best efforts, signs of decay still occur, we can consider changes in diet and increase the fluoride levels in toothpaste, as the greater the concentration of fluoride the slower the onset of dental disease. It’s often possible to remove the

decay and restore the tooth using Atraumatic Restorative Treatment, originally developed for the Third World, but now used regularly for children and nervous patients. Decayed tooth substance has no nerve so can be removed without pain and the tooth filled with a sticky material without the need for injections or the dental drill. Even if the filling is less than perfect, this technique enables the dentist to slow down the decay and build up trust with your child so that a conventional filling can be placed later, if necessary. If all these guidelines are followed, there is an excellent chance your child will reach adulthood with perfect teeth and good habits that will last them the rest of their life. Make an appointment with your dentist soon and ensure your child has a healthy mouth. If you want more information, simply go to the British Dental Health Foundation web site at Tell Me About/Children’s Teeth. To accompany this article, we are offering a half price children’s check-up, free to those who join Denplan for Children. For further information, contact Penny at Milton Dental Practice: 01993 831 396 or penny@drbigg.com.

TIM SPITTLE

After what seems to be the longest winter in living memory (or since last year!) you may be forgiven for feeling fed-up, out of condition and itching to get back into shape ready for the long hot summer that we can only hope is round the corner. Many of us will be sizing up last year’s summer wardrobe, wondering if it still fits and if we have come through the comfort eating winter months unscathed. Maybe this is the year we can attain that model beach body… most of us can only dream! But perhaps this year we should go one step further, scratch the surface a little deeper and look at how we shape up from the inside, instead.

In the UK someone dies from Coronary Heart Disease (CHD) every six minutes. 108 Cotswold Homes Magazine

Pause for one second to consider this statement.... Imagine, nine of your closest friends and family, including you. One of these people will, on this average, sadly suffer from CHD.

What causes CHD? There are a number of key factors mainly based around your diet, your levels of physical activity and your lifestyle. Some of us may see differing levels of risk, depending upon our ethnic background, genetic history, age and other related health factors, such as stress.

Small changes go a long way! The message is simple and clear – that even tiny adjustments in day-to-day activities and consumption can go a very long way to modify risk against the broad spectrum of health related problems associated with coronary heart disease.

``Many of us will be sizing up last year's summer wardrobe, wondering if it still fits and if we have come through the comfort eating winter months unscathed.''

TIM SPITTLE

h lt ea H r te et B to ay W r u o Y se ci Exer Tim Spittle advises... GET ACTIVE Exercise three times a week for at least one hour, more times if you can. This could be anything from popping down the gym for an intense workout routine, running, hiking, sport, gardening or even cleaning your car.Try and get out of breath for more than 30 minutes, three to five times a week.

EAT & DRINK HEALTHILY Clean up your diet, reduce saturated fat, salt and high levels of sugar.Take on board lots of good, natural water and reduce alcohol consumption. (Men should drink no more than 3-4 units per day and women no more than 2-3 units.)

CONTROL YOUR WEIGHT - APPLES OR PEARS? Ensure you keep within the current weight range for your height, age and body-shape. Being overweight increases your risk of developing CHD as it increases blood pressure and may alter your cholesterol levels. Apple-shaped bodies carry too much weight around their middle, increasing the risk of CHD. Pear-shaped bodies with less mid-section fat may be bigger in the hips but have a lower risk.

LIFESTYLE There are many impacting factors here from smoking to stress, hours of physically inactive office work, lack of exercise or rather lack of manual work, or simply leading a modern lifestyle.This is where many of us fall down, so put out the cigarettes, look to sport, hobbies and outdoor pursuits to combat stress. Even cleaning the car and doing some gardening are some simple suggestions that will get you started on the right track. If you are unsure of which way to turn to improve your individual situation and change the state of your health, consult your doctor for expert advice. Talk to your personal trainer about a schedule of good exercise, a dietician for help with your nutrition, but most importantly ACT NOW! CHD, diabetes and similar health risks are very real, you don't have to be old and you don't have to appear out of shape.... none of us are immune! It is estimated that by 2025 over 4.8 million people in the UK will have diabetes leading to a significantly greater risk of CHD. The British Heart Foundation.

If you would like to talk to Tim and his team about getting fitter, simply give him a call at RapidFX 01386 701231 or Personal Best Fitness 01386 840437 and don't forget to take advantage of the gym's Health Screening Privilege Card offer. Health Screening is also available for local businesses. www.cotswold-homes.com 109

EVENTS

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

MAY 1st-6th Cheltenham Jazz Festival Cheltenham Festival season kicks off with the beloved Jazz Festival, featuring The Noisettes, saxophonist Ravi Coltrane and the new â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Jazz Kitchenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Call 01242 511 211 or visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.com/ jazz for more information. 4th-6th Blenheim Jousting Tournament A spectacular battle will take place at Blenheim Palace with a mighty jousting tournament on the South Lawn. This Royal May Bank holiday battle will commence in deadly earnest and the Knights, as in medieval times, will give no quarter! Families can watch and cheer as points are awarded to the knights who compete. Visit www. blenheimpalace.com/whats-on for more information.

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 5th-18th – Chipping Campden Music Festival Chipping Campden’s own music festival returns for the most exciting festival to date, featuring The Orchestra of the Age of Enlightenment and much more. Visit www.campdenmusicfestival.co.uk for more information. 9th – Stow Horse Fair, Stow on the Wold The traditional gypsy horse fair attracts hundreds of sightseers to Stow twice a year. Gipsies gather from all corners of England for a meet and greet and hundreds of horses are paraded and sold, all in one day. 3rd – 7th – Badminton Horse Trials After last year’s unfortunate cancellation, the perennially popular Badminton Horse Trials return for another equine spectacular – one of the premier 2-star CCI events. Visit www.badminton-horse.co.uk for more information. 9th-12th Malvern Spring Gardening Show Set amongst the beautiful Malvern Hills, the RHS Malvern Spring Gardening Show is a gardening show with feeling. Meander round the stunning collection of Show Gardens, including the new range of themed gardens based on the Tour De France 100th anniversary. Visit www.threecounties.co.uk/springgardening for more information. 12th Dragon Boat Regatta at Gloucester Docks Gloucester’s ever-popular annual Dragonboat Regatta is back and promises to be bigger and better than ever! Come and cheer 30 local teams racing against one another in colourful 40ft long boats and enjoy a host of entertainment, samba bands, jazz band, singers, stalls, funfair and even belly dancers! Visit www.gloucesterquays.co.uk/ events/dragon-boat-racing for more information. 24th-27th Winchcombe Festival of Music and Arts Get arty in one of the Cotswolds’ most historic and attractive towns. Following the success of 2012’s event, 2013 promises another hearty dose of cultured fun. Visit www.winchcombe.co.uk/festival for more information. 24th – 27th Gloucester Tall Ships Festival Gloucester Quays is delighted to be a part of the city’s awardwinning Tall Ships Festival. There’s nothing quite like the sight of a flotilla of majestic sailing vessels as they make their grand entrance into the UK’s most inland port via the Gloucester and Sharpness Canal. Visit www.gloucesterquays.co.uk/events/gloucester-tall-shipsfestival-2013 for more information. 25th-2nd June Downy Duck Week, Slimbridge Experience close encounters of the duckling kind at WWT Arundel Wetland Centre this April! Hand feed Indian runner ducklings in the Ducky Delights room in the visitors centre. Visit http://www.wwt.org. uk for more information. 27th – Tetbury Woolsack Races The sack races have no greater aim than for individuals and teams to demonstrate their strength and fitness by racing whilst carrying a sack of wool up and down a hill that reaches a gradient of 1 in 4. Around this the town celebrates with a street fair that aims to please many with street entertainers, local stalls and amusement rides. Visit www. tetburywoolsack.co.uk for more information. www.cotswold-homes.com 111

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

31st-1st June – Robert Dover’s Cotswold Olimpick Games, Chipping Camden The modern Olympic movement has its historic roots in Robert Dover’s Olimpick Games. Still going strong after 400 years, the Olimpicks remain the premier destination for Shin-Kicking enthusiasts and revellers all round. Visit www.olimpickgames.co.uk for more information. 31st-2nd June – Wychwood Music Festival, Cheltenham Racecourse Now up to its ninth installment, the family-friendly Wychwood Festival 2013 promises typically entertaining headliners such as Bill Bailey, Toploader and The Human League. Visit www. wychwoodfestival.com for more information. 112 Cotswold Homes Magazine

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

JUNE 1st – 2nd – La Vie en Bleu – Prescott Hillclimb “Despite being called La Vie en Bleu, the event is quintessentially British - a mini Goodwood Festival of Speed set in the glorious Cotswolds - celebrating French cars, but in a British way. It’s club motor sport at its best, where visitors can mingle with the cars, speak to the drivers, and watch rare historic vehicles to modern day supercars being pushed to their limits” - Nick Mason (Drummer from Pink Floyd and avid car collector). Visit www.prescott-hillclimb. com for more information.

1st – 2nd – Evesham Balloon Festival The Event not only features hot air ballooning but also live music, a classic car show, fun fair and spectacular Night Glow and Fire Works finale. There are stalls providing local food and drink as well as gifts and souvenirs. The event is free to attend and there is plenty of parking in the town centre and on the riverside at Corporation Meadow. Visit www.eveshamtown.co.uk for more information. 4th-6th Bledington Music Festival The Bledington Music Festival is an annual music event which takes place over three summer evenings in June and features top class performers from all over the world. The village is located just 10 minutes away from Stow-on-the-Wold. Visit www. bledingtonmusicfestival.co.uk for more information. www.cotswold-homes.com 113

EVENTS

THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 4th – 9th Cheltenham Science Festival The most informative and entertaining science festival in the UK returns. Prepare to learn about Crime Scene Investigation and the biology of the Royal Family, as well as the mysterious Higgs Boson, The Ugly Animal Preservation Society and the science behind the perfect cup of tea. Visit www.cheltenhamfestivals.com for more information. 8th – Throckmorton Air Show, Nr Worcester An excellent airshow located near to Worcester, helping to support a variety of charities. Last year they provided a typically spectacular show despite the bleak weather. Visit http://www. throckmortonairshow.webs.com for more details. 14th – 16th – Cheltenham Food and Drink Festival Yum! This gastro-festival returns to Montpellier to offer delicious produce and gourmet treats to all who visit. Live music and street theatre also ensure that your eyes and ears will also be well catered for. Visit www.cheltenham-food-festival.garden-events.com for more information. 16th-27th July – Longborough Festival Opera Enjoy high quality opera in an intimate 500 seat theatre, with an orchestra pit for 65 players. Set in the heart of the Cotswolds, Longborough overlooks the Evenlode valley, with some of the most glorious views in England. This year features a highly ambitious staging of the entire of Wagner’s Ring Cycle. Visit www.lfo.org.uk for more information.

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 23rd – Terrier Show, Broadway Come to Broadway for 2013’s sensation Terrier Show! (Kennel Field, High St. Broadway, Worcs. WR12 7DJ) For more information, contact Kate on 07776 180121. 29th-30th Midsummer Speed Festival, Prescott Aside from the Midland Hill Climb Championship race meet, Prescott will be saying ‘G’day sport’, as they give a big warm welcome to guests from ‘downunder’. Six Aussie competitors from the Rob Roy Hill Climb, Victoria Australia will go head-to-head against the Brits. The same car, the same specification, no Aussie rules apply - just one challenge for one cup. A bonzer day out guaranteed! Visit www. prescott-hillclimb.com for more information.

JULY 3rd-14th Cheltenham Music Festival The Cheltenham Music Festival returns with a host of fabulous events, including an evening of film music presented by Mark Kermode, who shares classic scores from The Exorcist, Planet of the Apes and Taxi Driver. See www.cheltenhamfestivals.com for more details 6th-7th Cotswold Show, Cirencester Park Visit the Cotswold Show on its 25th Anniversary on the 6th and 7th July 2013 for a celebration to remember. Spectacular main arena events, country pursuits, ancient crafts, children’s entertainment, music festival and more than 200 trade stalls await. Visit www.cotswoldshow. co.uk for more information.

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events 13th â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Battle Proms Concert, Blenheim Palace Picture a balmy summer evening with friends, sublime music, daring horsemen, fantastic fireworks, cannon fire and even a breathtaking Spitfire display. Over the last 15 years the organizers of the Battle Proms have developed what is now one of the most distinctive and comprehensive concert programmes in the UK. See www. blenheimpalace.com/whatson for more information.

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THE COTSWOLD CALENDAR: Your essential guide to local events

13th-14th Tewkesbury Medieval Festival Tewkesbury Medieval Festival has been going for over 25 years and is still as popular as ever, attracting members of the public, battle reenactors and traders and entertainers from far and wide. Tewkesbury Medieval Festival is a company limited by guarantee, a ‘not for profit’ company. Visit www.tewkesburymedievalfestival.org for more information. 13th-14th Evesham River Festival Returning with a fairytale theme, the 2013 festival promises all kinds of frolics on and alongside Shakespeare’s Avon. See the painted riverboats line up alongside the bank! Visit www.eveshamriverfestival. co.uk for more information. 18th-29th Giffords Circus – Great Barrington Wilder and more magical than ever, Giffords Circus 2013 is a glamorous show about family, gypsies, superstition, magic and mystery. It is night time in Serbia. A huddle of Divas are thrown together for a show, all brilliant, all fighting for the spotlight, as wild gypsy violins steamrolling delicate classical piano. Who will win? Visit www.giffordscircus.com for more information and details of other performances. 27th-3rd August – Three Choirs Festival, Gloucestershire The Three Choirs Festival, held annually since the early eighteenth century and rotating between the three great cathedral cities of Gloucester, Worcester and Hereford, is one of the world’s oldest classical choral music festivals. A firm fixture in the British music calendar the festival is a must-visit for lovers of the great choral works from across Britain, Europe, America and Australasia. Visit www.3choirs.org for more information. 24th July – 1st August – The Guiting Festival Set in the ancient village of Guiting Power, nestled amidst the beautiful Gloucestershire Cotswold Hills, the Festival comprises a number of individual, indoor evening converts and an open-air convert held on Sunday in the playing fields next to the Village Hall. See www. guitingfestival.org for more details. www.cotswold-homes.com 117

Cotswold -Homes.com

Privilege carD

offers

CotOur swo Hom Privil esld

Car ege d is

FREE

Where can I get a PRIVILEGE CARD?

Just pick one up from the offices of HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE in Stow, Bourton and Moreton - it couldn’t be easier. (Not local? Simply register by clicking on the Cotswold-Homes Club button at www.cotswold-homes.com.) You will receive a monthly e-mail with a list of offers like the ones in this magazine, all from independent North Cotswold businesses.

Shop local and save money!

With a bumper selection of Summer offers from a host of local businesses, make sure you pick up your card as soon as possible!

Moving House? Then contact the Conveyancing Experts and get 15% off our standard legal fees! Call 01452 657970 for further details

20% off

all surveys until the end of July 2013

Thomas Legal Group is a dedicated provider of conveyancing services in and around the Cotswolds Tel: 01452 657970 Thomas Legal Group, Brunswick House Brockworth, Gloucestershire, GL3 4AA

Tel: 01285 640840 Central Surveying, 17 Black Jack Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2AA

15% off all food and drink

Until the end of JulY 2013. Excludes any other offers, promotions and set menus - booking advisable 01451 832010 10 Talbot Court, Stow on the Wold, GL54 1BQ

Fusion Hair Salon 25% Off a bottle of Moroccan oil with any highlights, tints or colours. (Oil £22.50 normally £30) until the end of JULY 2013.

01451 810781 Unit 2 Moore Road, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, Glos, GL54 2AZ

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10% off EVERYTHING IN STORE, PERFECT GIFTS FOR FRIENDS AND FAMILY. Until the end of July 2013. Tel: 01451 822800 Box of Delights, High Street, Bourton-on-the-Water, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 2AQ

Free property appraisals, free photographs and up to £500 cash back for new joiners. Until the end of July 2013.

www.character-cottages.com and owners@character-cottages.com

Cotswold -Homes.com

COTSWOLD

SHEPHERDS HUTS

10% off when staying

two nights or more in our cosy Cotswold Shepherds Hut Valid until the end of July 2013.

01453 883515 Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts, Sarratt, Keble Road, France Lynch, Nr. Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 8LN

20% off our Afternoon Tea. Delicious home - made scones with clotted cream & Jam. A pot of tea or cup of coffee of your choice. Mon - Fri only. Tel: 01608 652060 Cacao Bean, Carfax House, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0AT

Robert Boswell Design Consultancy 10% Off first fee invoice valid until July 2013 Robert Boswell Design Consultancy Ltd. 01451 831921 - 07702 347424 rb@rbdconsultancy.co.uk

Half-price Children’s checkups for only £30.00. Free check-up for your child if they join Denplan for Children. Ask Penny for details. Until the end of july 2013. Trevor Bigg Breakspeare House, Shipton Road, Milton-Under-Wychwood, Oxford, OX7 6JW 01993 831396

15% discount on all property related legal services.

valid until the end of JULY 2013 Contact Louise for further details 01993 705 095 Willow House, 2 Heynes Place, Station Lane Witney, OX28 4YN

Health Screening Offer ...Book a health, fitness & wellbeing assessment and receive a free ECG test & flexibility & posture examination worth £30. Tel: 01386 701231 Unit 6, Draycott Business Village Draycott, Nr Moreton in Marsh Gloucestershire, GL56 9JY

The Lamb Inn Great Rissington

10% off all orders over £10

Spring offer – 20% off all food MondayThursday

Discount Code: COTSHOMES2013 (Valid until the end of July 2013)

Until the end of JULY 2013.

of Cotswold Gold’s full range, Online at www. cotswoldgold.co.uk

Cotswold Gold East Lodge Farm, Stanton, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7NH, 07867 938 221

Tel: 01451 820388 The Lamb Inn, Great Rissington, Gloucestershire, GL54 2LP

15% off A La Carte Menu (excluding beverages). Mon to Thurs – Valid until the end of July 2013. 01386 853555 The Green, 20 High Street, Broadway, Worcestershire, WR12 7DT

Sabina Marland Enjoy a complimentary glass of wine when ordering one of our fabulous sharing platters. Available any night – cannot be combined with any other promotions. Valid until April 2013. The Mill House Hotel Station Road Kingham OX7 6UH 01608 658188

Free preliminary design service. Chance to win £350.00 gift voucher for Eckington Manor Cookery School, all approved project enquiries will be entered for a draw early June 2013. 01242 621190 Alderwood Construction, Unit 5 Gamma, Orchard Industrial Estate, Toddington, Gloucestershire, GL54 5EB

Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage. Sabina Marland – Vodder Trained Therapist.

20% off

first treatment for this wonderful massage! Tel: 07946 915317 www.sabinamarland.co.uk

Privilege Card Offers

4 Cream teas

for the price of 3 all week from 11am to 3pm. Until the end of July 2013. Dial House Hotel High Street Bourton on the Water GL54 2AN 01451 822244

Victoria’s Coffee House Victoria Coffee House, Moreton in Marsh are proud to offer 20% off all drinks when you produce your Cotswold Homes privilege card. Tel: 01608 651191 16 High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0AF

20% off all Karndean Flooring excludes fitting and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers. Tel: 01242 521 273 The Brown Barn, Longacre Farm, Brockhampton Lane, Gloucestershire, GL51 9RS

Daily activities for children running over May half term & Summer Holidays – book a full week to receive a discount! Tel: 01386 841595 Chipping Campden Leisure Centre Cidermill Lane, Chipping Campden, Gloucestershire, GL55 6HU

10% Off

throughout the store until the end of July 2013. When presenting your privilege card before placing your order.

01789 299446 Units 2-4 Avon Retail, Wharf Road, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire, CV37 0AD

20% Off

10% Off food at the Grapevine until the end of JULY 2013. Sheep Street Stow-on-the-Wold Gloucestershire GL54 1AU 01451 830 344

15% Off all food – excludes drinks & set menus

cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer. Valid until the end of July 2013 01993 823151 Burford House Hotel, 99 High Street, Burford, Oxfordshire, OX18 4QA

24 Hour Taxi Service

our premium made-tomeasure hardwood window shutters. Call for a free no obligation survey & quote.

50% off returns following an outbound journey within a 20 mile radius of Bourton-onthe-Water. Valid until the end of July 2013.

Tel: 01242 649592 37 Eldon Road, Cheltenham. GL52 6TX

01451 820778 07585 308838 www.hopeprivatehire.com

20% Off a course of 6 private lessons. 01242 673542 - 07921951477 www.prescottshooting.com dan@prescottshooting.com

Pinnock Wood Farm, Cheltenham, Nr Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5AX

15% Discount

in the Café and Foodstore. Valid until the end of July. Cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.

01451 830469 Ganborough Rd Moreton-in-Marsh, Longborough, Moreton-in-Marsh GL56 0QZ

Cotswold -Homes.com

The Fox at Broadwell 10% Off all food Monday to Friday. Excludes set menus and beverages Valid until the end of July 2013. The Fox at Broadwell The Green Broadwell Moreton in Marsh Glos GL56 0UF 01451 870 909

10% Discount off all new furniture and fabric. Valid until the end of July 2013. Tel: 01608 659091 5 Threshers Yard, West Street, Kingham Oxfordshire, OX7 6YF

Mulberry Home

20% Off, Seasonal Discount 01993 822385 Fulbrook, Nr Burford, Oxfordshire 0X18 4DE

Mill Dene Garden

Come and enjoy our herb garden, dye plants, charming cats, trout & unusual plants for sale. Free cup of tea/coffee for privilege card holders. Tel: 01386 700457 School Lane, Blockley, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 9HU

Half hour group lesson for Children under 10 – normally £16 now £10 (dates & times subject to availability. Valid until the end of July 2013. 01608 674867 Durham’s Farm Riding School, Chastleton, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0SZ

10% Off

everything in store (except Annie Sloan range and ‘spotted’ items) – Fantastic vintage gifts for your home, family and friends. Tel: 01451 832000 8 Park Street, Stow on the Wold, Gloucestershire, GL54 1AQ

Adam Tatlow Photography

WARTS new Drama Groups in Bourton and Witney for 4 to 18 years. FREE taster for your child. Call Evie anytime 07753 134882.

25% Off

fashion wear and shoes

(cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers) - valid until the end of July Tel: 01608 650331 2 High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucestershire, GL56 0AP

20% Off everything or 25% off items over £100

(available on all direct purchases with Adam Tatlow). 07774285459 cotswoldkeeper@aol.com

The Spice Room CAFÉ & INDIAN RESTAURANT

Sarah Farnsworth Photography 20% Off all prints ordered online at www. sarahfarnsworth. zenfolio.com, using code CHOMES20 until the end of July 01608 652918 Grimes House, High Street, Moreton in Marsh, Glos GL56 0AT

10% Discount

on all orders over £10 (collection only – cannot be used in conjunction with any other offers) vaild until the end of July Tel: 01608 654204 3 Oxford Street, Moreton in Marsh, Gloucester, GL56 0LA

Cotswold Carriers 10% Discount off our removal services until the end of July 2013

01608 730500 Warehouse No 2, The Walk, Hook Norton Road, Chipping Norton, Oxon OX7 5TG

Privilege Card Offers

Randell Burton Architects are pleased to offer a free consultation on any project and a donation to the charity Shelter.

20% off

all surveys until the end of April 2013

Valid until the end of April 2013. 01884 254465/ 01608 644573 1 West Street, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5LH

10% discount off all food until the end of April 2013. Sheep Street Stow-on-the-Wold Gloucestershire GL54 1AU 01451 830 344

Tel: 01285 640840 Central Surveying, 17 Black Jack Street, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2AA

Get 20% discount on all fabrics & sofas

15% off all legal fees

until the end of April 2013

Thomas Legal Group is a dedicated provider of conveyancing services in and around the Cotswolds Tel: 01452 657950 Thomas Legal Group, Brunswick House Brockworth, Gloucestershire, GL3 4AA

20% off when staying

two nights or more in our cosy cotswold shepherds hut

Until the end of April 2013.

valid until the end of April 2013

01993 822385 Fulbrook, Nr Burford, Oxfordshire 0X18 4DE

01453 883515 Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts, Sarratt, Keble Road, France Lynch, Nr. Stroud, Gloucestershire GL6 8LN

Fusion Hair Salon 25% off a bottle of Moroccan Oil with any highlights, tints or colours.

FREE Tree Planting with every job

(oil £22.50 normally £30) until the end of April 2013.

(exc price of the tree). Until the end of April 2013.

01451 810781 Unit 2 Moore Road, Bourton on the Water, Cheltenham, Glos, GL54 2AZ

Tel: 01608 644490 The Spinney, Elmsfield Industrial Estate, Worcester Road, Chipping Norton, Oxfordshire, OX7 5XL

20% Off All Products From Our Online Shop Or Shop At Our Shooting School Until The End Of April 2013 01242 673542 - 07921951477 www.prescottshooting.com dan@prescottshooting.com Pinnock Wood Farm, Cheltenham, Nr Winchcombe, Gloucestershire, GL54 5AX

until the end of April 2013.

ALL CONTRACTS AGREED BEFORE 30TH OF APRIL HAVE THE CHANCE TO WIN EITHER A £500 JOHN LEWIS GIFT VOUCHER OR A NEW BATHROOM SUITE TO THE SAME VALUE.

24 High Street Moreton-in-Marsh Gloucestershire GL56 OAF 01608 651002

01242 621190 Alderwood Construction, Unit 5 Gamma, Orchard Industrial Estate, Toddington, Gloucestershire, GL54 5EB

R&D WALKER T/A P Checketts 15% off chuck steak and beef mince on orders on £5 or more

Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses HOMES AND GARDENS Design Inspiration and Property Services ARCHITECTS Randell Burton Architects, Chipping Norton and Devon 01608 644573/01884 254465 Randell Burton Ltd is an RIBA Chartered Practice with offices in Devon and The Cotswolds and serves an extensive client base in both areas. W: www.randellburton.co.uk E: office@randellburton.co.uk

BATHROOMS The Bathroom Studio: 01386 47234 Our business is to design, supply and install bathrooms and with over 29 years of experience we pride ourselves on being able to provide a service that that is second to none. W: www.the-bathroomstudio.co.uk E: thebathroomstudio@btconnect.com

BUILDERS AND CONTRACTORS Alderwood Construction Ltd: 01242 621190 A family building firm near Cheltenham, Gloucestershire creating high quality homes, renovations and extensions in the Cotswold area. W: www.alderwoodconstruction.co.uk E: info@alderwoodconstruction.co.uk Cotswold Building Contractors: 01386 840484 A local, friendly and trustworthy building and development service with a high degree of expertise and excellent workmanship. E: neil.plumb@btconnect.com Cox’s ArchitecturalYard: 01608 652505 Cox’sYard offer a constantly changing stock of architectural salvage, antiques and artefacts backed up by full restoration services. W: www.coxsarchitectural.co.uk E: info@coxsarchitectural.co.uk Domestic Tank Services Water Storage, Diesel, Oil, Bespoke Tanks: 01386 853030 We are a young and dynamic company, whose team is built on the knowledge of over 30 years of experience. W: www.domestictankservices.com E: info@domestictankservices.com Four Shires Construction Ltd: 01451 850905 / 07879 473349 Four Shires Construction Ltd specialise in premium Cotswold Barn Conversions and renovations. Bathrooms, Living, Gym and Sauna, Bedrooms, Dining, External. W: www.fourshiresconstruction.co.uk E : josh@fourshiresconstruction.co.uk

CARPETS AND FLOORING Becknell Services Flooring specialists: 01386 840484 Wood & Stone Floors Refurbished, Curtain Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning, Reach & Wash Window Cleaning. E: neil.plumb@btconnect.com Carpetwise, Curtainwise, Furniturewise, Stratford upon Avon 01789 299446 Carpetwise Stratford upon Avon,Warwickshire has grown to become one of the Midlands’ leading specialists in carpets, hard floor coverings, rugs, curtains, blinds, soft furnishings, and now furniture, stocking many well-known brands. W: www.carpet-curtainwise.co.uk E: info@carpet-curtainwise.co.uk KC Carpets, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 650331 We are a family run business that has been offering the best in carpets, vinyl flooring and blinds since 1984. W: www.kc-carpets.co.uk E: kccarpets@ymail.com Parsons Carpet & Flooring Specialists: Cheltenham: 01242 521273 Passionate about flooring and equally passionate about the quality of service that we provide to you! W: www.parsonsflooring.com E: enquiries@parsonsflooring.com

Westcote Design, Kingham: 01608 659091 We produce a comprehensive range of sofas, sofa beds, footstools, headboards and bespoke furniture manufactured by a small talented team. W: www.westcotedesign.co.uk E: info@westcotedesign.co.uk

Pippa Paton Design: 01993 220 721 / 07836 793 624 A specialist in contemporary Cotswolds interior design creating beautiful, exceptional homes, which enhance the lives of those who live in them. W: www.pippapatondesign.co.uk E: scott@pippapatondesign.co.uk

GARDENS

Shuttercraft: 01242 649592 Shuttercraft offer you the UK’s widest and best quality range of internal plantation shutters and made-to-measure wood slat venetian blinds. W: www.shuttercraft.co.uk E: enquiries@shuttercraft.co.uk

Annie Pearce, Garden Design: 07973 137808 I work with you personally to help you create your own beautiful, unique garden that I hope will truly enhance your life. W: www.anniepearce.co E: annie@anniepearce.co Batsford Arboretum: 01386 701 441 For quality plants, gorgeous gifts and garden sundries, locally sourced home-baked food and beautiful shabby chic ideas from the Applestore shop. W: www.batsarb.co.uk E: arboretum@batsfordfoundation.co.uk Fosseway Garden Centre, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 651757 A large garden centre offering gardening, pets, gifts and everything to do with outdoor living, plus a great cafe. W: www.fossewaygardencentre.co.uk E: jo.creek@fossewaygardencentre.co.uk

DESIGNERS Robert Boswell Design, Stow on the Wold 01451 831921 A complete design and specification service to the residential, retail and contract markets. W: www.rbdconsultancy.com E: rb@rbdconsultancy.co.uk

FIREPLACES Greyhound Stoves. Blackwell: 01608 682628 We are a Fireplace Stove Studio - our showroom features over 50 displays which include multi-fuel / wood burning stoves and stone and wood fireplace surrounds. W: www.greyhoundstoves.com E: greyhoundstoves@btconnect.com

FURNITURE Baroque Ardor – unique hand painted furniture: 07595 894676 / 07920 112252 A successful partnership of interior designers who are dedicated to creating unique, hand painted furniture. W: www.baroque-ardor.co.uk E: info@baroque-ardor.co.uk Sebastian Sellers, Northleach: 01451 861864 Mike Sellers Smith & his team at Sebastian Sellers have over 30 experience in the planning & creation of individually designed & handmade furniture. E: information@sebastiansellers.co.uk

Lonstone: Garden Landscaping, Longborough: 01451 830140 Manufacturers of premium quality garden landscaping products, including paving and exclusive reproduction Lonstone Vintage Planters and feature pieces. W: www.lonstone.co.uk E: info@lonstone.co.uk Treetech Arboricultural Services Ltd, Chipping Norton: 01608 644490 Professional, efficient service with consistent quality standards for all aspects of tree care. W: www.treetech.co.uk E: ben@treetech.co.uk

HOUSE SITTERS Ticketyboo House Sitters, Barnwood, Gloucestershire: 01452 790104 If you are going on holiday, on business or leaving your home for any reason,Ticketyboo Housesitters offer you a personal house and pet sitting service. W: www.ticketyboo-housesitters.co.uk E: info@ticketyboo-housesitters.co.uk

OUTDOOR LIFESTYLE The Real Pizza Oven Company Ltd, Broadway: 01242 603756 Artisan handmade traditional wood fired pizza ovens for sale or party hire. For the ultimate garden leisure experience, entertain your friends and family with delicious pizzas, home cooked breads and roast meats. W: www.threalpizzaovencompany.com E: info@therealpizzaovencompany.com

PROPERTY MAINTENANCE Leave It to Us -Cotswolds: 01451 830199 Professional Cleaning - Property Maintenance Home Makeovers - Quality Interior Decorating, Residential Property Finder, Specialising in Cotswold properties. W: www.leaveittous.biz E: enquiries@leaveittous.biz

INTERIORS SWIMMING POOLS Angela Hay Curtains & Blinds: 01386 700692 Hand made Curtains & Roman Blinds, based in the Cotswolds. W: www.angelahaycurtainsandblinds.com E: r.barrett200@btinternet.com Amanda Hanley By Design: 01993 822385 / 07976 353996 An independent and professional service for all of your interior design projects. W: www.amandahanley.co.uk E: amanda@amandahanley.co.uk Bower Willis Designs 01608 690870 Kitchen Design, Stratford upon Avon, Warwickshire & Cotswolds. W: www.bowerwillisdesigns.co.uk E: studio@bowerwillisdesigns.co.uk

FiveValleys Natural Pools: Swimming Pools: 01453 884881 / 07714 236211 In partnership with Biotop: Design & Construct eco friendly natural swimming pools. W: www.fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk E: mail@fivevalleysnaturalpools.co.uk

WINDOWS Mike Honour Windows, Blockley: 01386 701079 When you choose Lattice Period Windows for your windows you can be sure that you are selecting the best combination of craftsmanship, style and durability. W: www.mikehonourwindows.co.uk E: sales@mikehonourwindows.co.uk

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Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses LIVING IN THE COTSWOLDS Leisure, lifestyle and business

ARTISTS AND CRAFTSMEN Adam Tatlow – Wildlife Photography: 07774 285 459 Cotswold Keeper Photography by Adam Tatlow; photography of all animals wild and free, taken in the stunning countryside near to Guiting Power in the heart of the Cotswolds. W: www.cotswoldkeeperphotography.com E: cotswoldkeeper@aol.com

Celia Lendis Contemporary – Artist 01608 650852 Celia Lendis Contemporary represents artists of integrity whose work expresses and authentic vision, commitment to craftsmanship and an intellectual engagement with the world. W: www.celialendis.com E: gallerycelialendis.com

Jessica Leighton – Artist 07805 813746 Full of colour and texture, Jessica uses a mixture of media to create paintings that portray the ever changing seasonal fields and crops. Greeting cards and prints are available. W: www.jessicaleighton.com E: jessicaleighton@me.com

Lindy Allfrey, Stow-on-the-Wold 01451 832440 Portrait Painter & Portrait Workshops. W: www.lindyallfrey.co.uk E: lindyallfrey@btopenworld.com

Tilly Tayler-Levy – Equine and Canine Artist: 07769 896 966 Tilly specialises in equine and canine portraiture in both oil and pastel as well as and sculpture in bronze. E: georgia-tl@hotmail.co.uk

Whichford Pottery 01608 684416 Working as a team of potters, decorators and apprentices, we are committed to excellent craftsmanship and design. W: www.whichfordpottery.com E: flowerpots@whichfordpottery.com

CHARITIES Well Child: 0845 458 8171 Cheltenham-based national children’s charity committed to improving the treatment and quality of care for children throughout the UK. Chief Executive – Colin Dyer. Patron – Prince Harry. W: www.wellchild.org.uk

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EQUESTRIAN CENTRES Overdale Equestrian Centre, Nether Westcote: 01993 832520 Overdale Equestrian Centre is unique in its focus on teaching riders the HOW of riding, improving balance, skill and confidence. W: www.overdale-equestrian.co.uk E: karin@overdale-equestrian.co.uk Durham’s Farm – Horse/Pony Riding: 01608 674 867 / 07811 339 162 A well-established, successful, fun riding school and livery yard; experienced, qualified and friendly instructors teaching a wide range of activities for all ages, all year round W: www.cotswoldriding.com E: info@cotswoldriding.com

ESTATE AGENTS Bloor Homes Moreton Park Moreton in Marsh 01608 651000 Bloor Homes today is one of the largest privately owned house building groups, building in excess of 2,000 new homes each year. W: www.bloorhomes.com E: moretonpark@bloorhomes.com Bovis HomesVictory Fields Upper Rissington 01451 822977 From apartments to large family homes, Bovis build some of the best new homes in the UK and offers stunning all new inclusive specifications. W: www.bovishomes.co.uk E: info.southwest@bovishomes.com Sovereign Living, Moreton Park Moreton in Marsh 01608 651000 Affordable new homes in Moreton Park, Moreton in Marsh Harrison James & Hardie Estate Agents – North Cotswolds Moreton in Marsh: 01608 651000 moreton@harrisonandhardie.co.uk Bourton on the Water: 01451 822977; bourton@harrisonandhardie.co.uk Residential Lettings: 01451 833177; caroline@harrisonandhardie.co.uk The Leading Estate Agency specialising in Residential Sales and Lettings W: www.cotswold-homes.com Fine & Country Estate Agents: LONDON Represented in the North Cotswolds by HARRISON JAMES & HARDIE James von Speyr, Director 01451 833170; james@harrisonandhardie.co.uk Karen Harrison, Director 01608 651000; karen@harrisonandhardie.co.uk Award-winning, international agency for upper quartile residential property in the UK and abroad - Superior town residences, luxury new-build properties and classic country homes. W: www.fineandcountry.co.uk

FINANCIAL SERVICES JEM Financial Planning: Cotswolds: 01386 840777 John Magee, an Independent Financial Adviser, and Sue Ellis, a Mortgage Broker, offer friendly, professional advice.

W: www.johnny-magee.co.uk E: john@jemfinancial.co.uk

MECHANICS

Philip Hanley Financial Services, Fulbrook: 01993 824680 Independent Financial Adviser providing investment, pensions and mortgage advice. W: www.pjamesfs.com E: philip@pjamesfs.com

TWCVehicle Services Freelance mechanic and Subaru specialist 07826 847357 E: teddolls@hotmail.co.uk

FINE FOOD AND DRINK SUPPLIERS Cotswold Gold, Stanton: 07867938221 Cotswold Gold is a Natural Extra Virgin Rapeseed Oil, extracted using traditional cold pressing. W: www.cotswoldgold.co.uk E: charlie@cotswoldgold.co.uk The Cotswold Brewing Company, Bourton on the Water: 01451 824488 A family owned and run brewery which supplies kegged and bottled lagers, wheat beer, stout and cider to pubs, restaurants and hotels in the Cotswolds. W: www.cotswoldbrewingcompany.co.uk E: sales@cotswoldlager.com The Cotswold Food Store & Café: 01451 830469 The Cotswold Food Store and Café is a mustvisit farm shop situated in a traditional Cotswold stone barn. W: www.cotswoldfoodstore.co.uk E: office@cotswoldfoodstore.co.uk R&D Walker T/A P Checketts Moreton in Marsh: 01608 651002 Butcher’s providing seasonal meats, game (when in season), local venison, local beef, lamb and pork. W: www.cotswold-homes.com Simon Weaver – Cotswold Organic Dairy, Upper Slaughter We proudly follow a traditional method of organic farming, and place great store in caring for the land and animal welfare. 01451 870852 E: info@turnstonefarming.co.uk W: www.simonweaver.net

HOLIDAY COTTAGE MANAGEMENT Character Cottages, Cotswolds: 08456 808029 Character Cottages is a distinctive, full service holiday lettings business, with a focus on letting and managing fabulous country homes. W: www.character-cottages.com E: enquiries@character-cottages.com

NURSERIES AND SCHOOLS Bloxham School, Bloxham Oxfordshire 01295 720222 Bloxham School is a small, friendly and flourishing co-educational boarding and day school of around 420 pupils. W: www.bloxhamschool.com E: registrar@bloxhamschool.com Cotswold School – Bourton on the Water: 01451 820 554 / 01451 820 938 A popular, happy, and successful 11-18 Academy status school set in beautiful rural surroundings, with an excellent reputation for academic success. W: www.cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk E: admin@mail.cotswold.gloucs.sch.uk Stepping Stones & Woodland Adventure Holiday Club: 01451 820 345 Professional high quality care and education tailored to Children’s and Parents’ individual needs, implementing the EarlyYears Foundation Stage and all the requirements of Ofsted. W: steppingstonesnursery-cotswolds.co.uk E: info@steppingstonesnursery-cotswolds.co.uk The Barn Nursery, Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 822 224 The Barn Nursery is a family-run nursery school and day nursery offering full-time and sessional day-care for children aged from 3 months to 5 years W: www.cotswold-homes.com E: mrs_cort@yahoo.co.uk

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT Maggie Minter, Bourton on the Water Peak performance and high growth coaching. 01451 810500 W: www.maggieminter.co.uk E: maggie@maggieminter.co.uk

PHOTOGRAPHERS Louise Bowles Photography, Blockley: 01386 701520 Professional photographer whose services include Family Photographs,Weddings, Family Portraits, Newborn and Events, Studio in Blockley. W: www.louisebowlesphotography.com E: info@louisebowlesphotography.com

MARKETING Cotswold-Homes.com: North Cotswolds: 01608 653899 Innovative, multi-media marketing for independent North Cotswold businesses. W: www.cotswold-homes.com Marketing: collette@cotswold-homes.com Editorial: matt@cotswold-homes.com Social media: riyad@cotswold-homes.com

Sarah Farnsworth Photography, Moreton in Marsh: 01608 652 918 / 07921 196 032 Commissions include rural nature, candid portraiture, product photography, landscapes, lifestyle & interiors, and sporting events amongst others. W: www.sarahfarnsworth.co.uk E: info@sarahfarnsworth.co.uk

Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses REMOVAL COMPANIES Cotswold Carriers Removals Limited, Chipping Norton: 01608 730500 We are a family-run business, operating 7 vehicles of varying sizes. W: www.cotswoldcarriers.co.uk E: bill@cotswold-carriers.com

RUGBY Gloucester Rugby Club, Gloucester Our famed grounds host the best rugby every season! 0871 871 8781 W: www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk E: admin@gloucesterrugby.co.uk

SHOOTING SCHOOLS Prescott Hill Shooting, Based at Ford Prescott Shooting specialises in providing the ultimate shooting experience both at our shooting school in the Cotswolds or at a stately home or castle! 01242 673542 W: www.prescottshooting.com E: dan@prescottshooting.com

The Regal Cinema, Evesham Revamped and relaunched art deco cinema with café and latest releases. 01386 421007 W: theregal.ac E: boxoffice@theregal.ac

Em&Lu: 01608 683497 Adorable children’s pyjamas, dressing gowns, bed linen, and baby accessories. Em&Lu’s exclusive fabric designs include tractors, dinosaurs, ballerina’s, blossom & safari, loved by parents and children. W: www.emandlu.co.uk E: emma@emandlu.co.uk

TRANSPORT

G.U.D.A.: 01367 253261 Luxurious pyjama bottoms / lounge pants handmade on our farm in the Cotswolds. Silk and cotton pairs, including many Liberty designs. Bamboo tops available to match. W: www.guda.me.uk E: hello@guda.me.uk

Union Jack and Jill Union Jack and Jill – for gorgeous homes and cool kids everywhere. Stylish, contemporary nursery interiors which are proud to be ‘Made in Britain’! W: www.unionjackandjill.com E: sales@unionjackandjill.co.uk

SOLICITORS Bower & Bailey Solicitors Banbury, Oxford, Swindon,Witney: 01993 705095 At Bower & Bailey we offer a broad range of legal services designed to respond to the needs of both private and commercial clients. W: www.bowerandbailey.co.uk E: witney@bowerandbailey.co.uk

Vinyl Revolution The vinyl specialists for interior design.Transform your home with brilliant designs and colours! White goods, refrigerators and tables. W: www.vinylrevolution.co.uk E: enquiries@vinylrecolution.co.uk

William Gilder Ltd, Cheltenham: 01242 620677 William Gilder Ltd has proudly provided specialist transportation services for over 25 years. Disposal, Painting, Storage,Transport W: www.williamgilder.co.uk E: theboss@wgilder.co.uk

THE HIGH STREET Day-to-day essentials, occasional luxuries

ANTIQUES Styles of Stow, Stow on the Wold: 01451 830 455 An extensive selection of rare and unusual grandfather clocks standing alongside other fine antique timepieces. Repairs and restoration carried out on site by our highly qualified craftsmen. W: www.stylesofstow.com E: info@stylesofstow.co.uk

SURVEYORS DENTISTS

Kendall & Davies Solicitors, Cotswolds: 01451 830295 From our four offices we offer friendly, clientfocussed services related to property, business and family matters. Bourton, Stow, Moreton and Burford. W: www.kendallanddavies.co.uk E: stow@kendallanddavies.co.uk

Central Surveying, Cirencester: 01285 640840 Chartered Surveyors, Building Surveyors and Property Consultants for London and the South West. W: www.centralsurveying.co.uk E: office@centralsurveying.co.uk

Milton Dental Practice, Milton-under-Wychwood: 01993 831396 Milton Dental Practice is a private practice dealing with all aspects of dental treatment. W: www.drbigg.com E: reception@drbigg.com

Thomas Legal Group, Gloucestershire: 01452 657950 Dedicated provider of conveyancing services in and around the Cotswolds, offering top quality service and FIXED PRICE conveyancing. W: www.thomaslegalgroup.co.uk E: sharon.foote@thomaslegalgroupuk.com

TAXIS

FASHION AND JEWELLERY

Hope Private Hire -Taxi Service: The Cotswolds: 01451 820778 / 07585308838 A reliable, punctual service available 24 hours a day, offering: Airport Transfers, Castles, Races, Seaport Transfers, Gardens and Tours of the Cotswolds. W: www.hopeprivatehire.com E: andrew@hopeprivatehire.com

Brocks Menswear Stow on the Wold and Cirencester: 01451 831200 The theme is ‘smart casual’ and includes shirts, Polos, Knitwear,Trousers & Jeans, Jackets & Coats & Footwear. W: www.brocksmenswear.co.uk E: stow@brocksmenswear.co.uk

The Cotswold Tailor sells unique contemporary men’s and women’s clothing tailored in traditional tailored British cloths. (Aptus Suits) W: thecotswoldtailor.com E: info@thecotswoldtailor.com

FITNESS AND BEAUTY Cotswold Leisure, Bourton on the Water: 01451 824024 Cotswold Leisure Bourton offers a range of facilities to suit all ages and abilities. W: www.cotswold.gov.uk E: bourton.leisurecentre@cotswold.gov.uk

Cotswold Leisure, Chipping Campden 01386 841595 Cotswold Leisure, Chipping Campden provides indoor sports, recreation and leisure opportunities for the north Cotswold area. W: http://cotswoldleisure.org/chipping-campden E: chippingcampdensportscentre@cotswold. gov.uk

Fusion Unisex Hair Salon Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 810781 Fusion hair salon specialises in cuts, re-styles, colours, and special occasions. Open daily from 9am, conveniently located just off the High Street. W: www.cotswold-homes.com

Personal Best Fitness Studio, Chipping Campden 01386 840437 A brand new studio in Chipping Campden offering everything from gym membership, personal training, sports and remedial massage and a whole range of classes! W: www.pbfitnessstudio.com E: info@pbfitnessstudio.com

Rapid FX Personal Fitness, Draycott: 01386 701231 Rapid FX personal training is dedicated to offering professional personal assistance to fitness and wellbeing within the North Cotswolds. W: www.rapid-fx.com E: tim@rapid-fx.com

HEALTH

Summer Fair – Well Child Stallholders

Sabina Marland Lymphatic Drainage Massage: 01285 821759 Sabina works in the heart of the Cotswolds and specialises in Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, Dr Hauschka and Indian Head Massage. W: www.sabinamarland.co.uk E: Sabina@sabinamarland.co.uk

FLORISTS B Gifted B Gifted is an online gift shop bringing together a stunning array of candles, diffusers, silk scarves and accessories for you and your home. W: www.bgifted.co.uk E: fiona@bgifted.co.uk

CHH Design Ltd: 07768 937000

THEATRE & CINEMA Chipping Norton Theatre: 01608 642350 We are a theatre, an art-house cinema, a gallery and a concert hall. W: www.chippingnortontheatre.co.uk E: boxoffice@chippingnortontheatre.com

Foundation, Stow on the Wold and Cheltenham: 0845 388 7336 Clothing & Accessories for Modern Living W: www.shopfoundation.com E: info@shopfoundation.com

The Cotswold Tailor Woodstock: 01993 358284

Cotswold Flowers, Bourton on the Water: 01451 821306 Family run florist offering local, national and international delivery six days a week.Wedding Florist, Funeral, Local Delivery, Hand Tied Bouquets. W: www.cotswoldflowers.co.uk E: info@cotswoldflowers.co.uk

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Cotswold -Homes.com Cotswold Homes Directory of Independent Businesses GIFT SHOPS Box of Delights Bourton on the Water: 01451 822800 Box of Delights offers a range of beautiful contemporary gifts, greeting cards, Jewellery, home decorations. W: www.boxofdelights.biz E: enquiries@boxofdelights.biz The Cedars Bourton on the Water: 01451 822 399 The Cedars offers something for everyone, providing gift inspiration from unique colourful wall art and decorative tea light holders. W: www.cotswold-homes.com E: cedargifts@btinternet.com

TRAVEL Holidays Please: 01451 810255 Holidays Please is an award winning ABTA travel agent who are available even when the high street is closed! W: www.holidaysplease.co.uk E: Debbie@holidaysplease.com

VISITING THE COTSWOLDS Where to stay, what to do, where to go?

01608 652060 A Konditorei (German Pastry Shop) and Café that also provides celebration cakes made to order. Celebration cakes, Chocolates, Cakes, Truffles,Tarts, Fudge W: www.cacaobean.co.uk

Le Manoir – Aux Quat’saisons (Raymond Blanc): 01844 278881 Created by celebrated chef Raymond Blanc, Le Manoir is renowned for offering one of Britain’s finest gastronomic experiences. Situated in the picturesque Oxfordshire village of Great Milton. W: www.manoir.com

The Coach and Horses, Longborough: 01451 830325 A Cotswold village pub offering open fires, good food and award-winning Donnington ales brewed just a couple of miles away. E: info@thecoachlongborough.com

The Fox Inn, Broadwell: 01451 870909 The Fox is a friendly, family pub offering traditional pub food with beer garden, ideal for couples and families. E: foxinnbroadwell@aol.com

The Fox Inn, Great Barrington: 01451 844385 The Prettiest pub setting in the Cotswolds on the banks of the river Windrush - Bar Snack Menu, Riverside Dining,Traditional C17th Bar with local Ales, Ciders & Juices. W: www.foxinnbarrington.com E: info@foxinnbarrington.com

Big Feastival The Big Feastival aims to raise funds for Jamie Oliver’s Better Food Foundation, with acts KT Tunstall,The Feeling, Basement Jaxx and many more performing this year. W: www.jamieoliver.com/thebigfeastival E: info@big-feastival.co.uk

The Halfway House, Kineton: 01451 850344 The Half Way House is 17th Century Inn serving good traditional food, using local ingredients, and fine local ale. W: www.thehalfwayhousekineton.co.uk

Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts, Nr. Stroud 01453 883515/ 07971417177 Established in 2005 with over 70 satisfied customers, from the shores of Scotland to the tip of Cornwall, Cotswold Shepherd’s Huts have been used for a variety of purposes. W: www.cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk E: enquiries@cotswoldshepherdshuts.co.uk

The Lamb Inn, Great Rissington: 01451 820388 The Lamb Inn at Great Rissington is one of the Cotswolds’ most welcoming country inns situated in a beautiful village with lovely views from the garden. W: www.thelambinn.com E: enquiry@thelambinn.com

FAMILY DAYS OUT Cotswold Farm Park Guiting Power: 01451 850307 Cotswold Farm Park was the first Rare Breeds farm to open to the public. A total countryside experience in the heart of the Cotswolds W: cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk E: info@cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk

The New Inn, Willersey: 01386 853226 The New Inn is a lovely pub with plenty to do and has a games room & skittle alley! Traditional village pub, Function room, Donnington Ales. W: www.newinnbroadway.co.uk E: info@newinnbroadway.co.uk

PUBS,TEA HOUSES AND RESTAURANTS

The Plough Inn, Ford: 0800 066 3851 Sitting in the hamlet of Ford, this popular 16th Century Inn is renowned for its excellent menu and fine Donnington ales. W: www.theploughinnford.co.uk E: info@theploughinnford.co.uk

Cacao Bean, Moreton in Marsh:

Russells’s of Broadway, Broadway 01386 853555

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Russell’s of Broadway brings something special to the Cotswolds area, a superb dining experience with seven tastefully appointed bedrooms. W: www.russellsofbroadway.co.uk E: info@russellsofbroadway.co.uk

The Snowshill Arms, Snowshill: 01386 852653 A 13th Century pub, situated in the pretty, tranquil village of Snowshill. Beer garden, Function room, Donnington Ales, Children’s play area. W: www.cotswold-homes.com

TheVine Leaf, Stow-on-the-Wold: 01451 832010 The Vine Leaf. Here we serve good locally sourced food served all day - anything from delicious home made burgers to sandwiches, light lunches and main meals. W: www.thevineleaf.co.uk E: thevineleaf@gmail.com

HOTELS Buckland Manor, Nr Broadway: 01386 852 626 Whether you are looking for a romantic getaway, somewhere for a special event or celebration, or a quiet escape, Buckland Manor won’t disappoint. W: www.bucklandmanor.co.uk E: info@bucklandmanor.co.uk

Burford House Hotel A beautiful townhouse hotel rated AA 5 star with four poster beds and wicked cream teas! 01993 823151 E: stay@burfordhouse.co.uk W: www.burford-house.co.uk

Lower Slaughter Manor, Lower Slaughter: 01451 820456 The epitome of country house chic; romantic getaways, restful breaks, conferences, and weddings, with exquisite dining also available to non residents. W: www.lowerslaughter.co.uk E: mail@lowerslaughter.co.uk

Mill House Hotel, Kingham 01608 658188 The Mill House offers the highest standards of hospitality, luxury and service. W: www.millhousehotel.co.uk E: stay@millhousehotel.co.uk

The Washbourne Court Hotel, Lower Slaughter: 01451 822 143 The 17th Century venue provides luxurious short breaks, conferences, and wedding receptions, catering for locals as well as guests. W: www.washbournecourt.co.uk E: info@washbournecourt.co.uk

Wyck Hill House Hotel & Spa, Stow on the Wold: 01451 831936 For somewhere to relax, to work, a place to celebrate or to combine all these things,Wyck Hill is the perfect venue. W: www.wyckhillhousehotel.co.uk E: sales.wyckhillhousebespokehotels.com

WEDDINGS Beautylicious & Kate’s Hair Flair, Bourton-on-the-Water: 01451 820012 Beautylicious offers a full range of beauty treatments including facials, make up, massage, manicures, pedicures, nail treatments and hair removal. W: www.beautylicious-bourton-co.uk E: beautyliciousbourton@gmail.com

Jenny Edwards-Moss, Stow-on-the-Wold: 01451 870194 Jenny Edwards-Moss has been designing and making wedding outfits for the mother of the bride or groom for 20 years from her shop in Stow-on-the-Wold, working mainly with luxurious and colourful silks. W: www.jennyedwardsmoss.co.uk E: jenny@jennyedwardsmoss.co.uk

Julia Sibun, Stow on the Wold: 07974 778 806 Julia Sibun, a wedding planner based close to Stow-on-the-Wold, has been planning weddings for ten years. W: www.juliasibum.co.uk E: julia@jsibun.co.uk

Maggie Booth, Stroud: 01453 758621 Maggie Booth Photography – creating beautiful and thoughtful images that tell the story of your wedding day. W: www.maggieboothphotography.co.uk

The Dial House Hotel & Restaurant Bourton on the Water: 01451 822244 The Dial House Hotel demonstrates the best blend of traditional and modern to bring you the ultimate country hotel experience. W: www.dialhousehotel.com E: info@dialhousehotel.com

Mudway Workman Marquees, Stoke Orchard: 01242 680 204 At Mudway Workman we provide marquee hire for functions of almost any size - for example, weddings, children’s parties, anniversaries, lunches, balls and corporate events. W: www.mudwayworkman.co.uk E: enquiries@mudwayworkman.co.uk

The Grapevine Hotel, Stow-on-the-Wold Set in this historic market town, a 17th century hotel renowned for its warm hospitality and delicious food. 01451 830344 W: www.thegrapevinehotel.com E: stay@thegrapevinehotel.com

The Broadway Florist, Broadway: 01386 853000 Be inspired by The Broadway Florist’s gorgeous Flower Couture and Floral DECO collection detailing a selection of beautiful flowers for different occasions, scene setting and seasons. W: www.broadway-florist.com E:info@broadway-florist.com