Cotswold Style December 2014

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We have been creating beautiful handmade kitchens in the Cotswolds for over 20 years and our business flourishes on personal recommendations. Please call in to meet the team, no appointment necessary. Open Monday-Saturday

sales@parlourfarm.com | www.parlourfarm.com


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beautiful bespoke kitchens handmade in the Cotswolds for over 20 years

Our own team of local craftsmen are passionate about making your dream kitchen come true. Parlour Farm | 12 Wilkinson Road | Love Lane | Cirencester | GL7 1YT

01285 885 336


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JUICE’S

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FESTIVE

GOSSIP

JUICE’S TEMP OF THE MONTH

WE LOVE YOUR PHOTO BECKI!

Jade is absolutely delighted to have awarded Beverly Temp of the Month for November, for her outstanding hard work and dedication. Thank you so much Bev enjoy your goodies.

Becki, in our Cheltenham office has recently had her photos taken for Juice’s literature. Becki, you look absolutely amazing - we love them!

JUICE AT THE RUGBY

Juice has experienced record temp growth in the final quarter of 2014. With companies requiring additional resource in the lead up to the Christmas period, Juice has very much supported organisations by supplying exceptional temporary staff.

RECORD TEMP GROWTH

Juice had a great day in November entertaining clients in our Juice box at Bath Rugby. We cannot wait for the Bath vs Gloucester match on the 16th May.

WELCOME FAITH! Juice Cheltenham are absolutely delighted to welcome Faith to the team. Faith says of her new role: ‘I am delighted to be joining Juice Recruitment as a Resourcer in the Cheltenham office. With over 11 years in customer services and 6 months in internal recruitment I am a friendly, driven individual who thrives on building relationships and supporting others!’ We love you too Faith!

GUESS WHO EMMA BUMPED IN TO! On a recent trip to Dubai, Emma was delighted to share a drink with the very famous fashion designer - Roberto Cavalli. Talking about fashion and the South of France, Roberto was a fascinating and charming man!

01242 210410

123 The Promenade, Cheltenham, Glos GL50 1NW

www.juicerecruitment.com


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Contents

99 16 45 74

80 DECEMBER 2014

CONTENTS 10 Out and About

67 Grace & Glamour

109 Restaurant Review

Your guide to the very best events happening in and around the Cotswolds this month

Sparkle, shine and celebrate in style

Mark and Rachel Hopkins check out what’s on offer at Gupshill Manor

16 Real Life Meet Jessica Frankopan, owner of Cowley Manor Hotel and founder of Green & Spring

69 Sparkle this Christmas Amy Hickey’s favourite products to help impress this festive season

119 Racing Tips for Cheltenham Nigel Aplin looks at the International & New Year’s Day race fixtures

74 Decadence Glamour, opulence and beauty in this bordello styled fashion shoot

127 Surtees Speaks How do you prepare for Christmas?

21 Hot Property We feature some of the most beautiful properties that are for sale or to let in and around the Cotswolds

80 Raging Bull

36 Christmas Gift Guide

91 Best Behaviour

Luxury items for the perfect presents

Sherbornes Solicitors gives advice on the perils of the office party

The new face of Raging Bull photoshoot at Ellenborough Park

41 Painting By The Coast Clive Burling heads down to Devon

99 Toot Sweet A magical land of creation

54 Sail The Seas Lucy Garbutt discovers that cruising is the cool way to travel

105 The perfect festive treat

62 Mind Body & Soul

107 Ellenborough Park

Products & treatments to help you during the festive season

Cotswold Style competition winner cooks up her prize

Shelle Duffin makes Mince Pie Brownies

SOCIALSCENE 73 Hambledon Shop 85 Cowley Manor 93 Shadowplay 120 Blighty Bound 122 Beards

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 5


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SEBASTIAN SELLERS

Showrooms open all week and Saturday morning or other times by appointment

Kitchens, Bedrooms, Bathrooms, Bookcases and furniture for all rooms Individually designed and handmade in our own workshops Using the very best materials and timber from sustainable woodlands Full project management if required

At Sebastian Sellers we still oer a no fee, no obligation, design service for your project and nothing with us is standard.

to ud Pro ort p Sup KIP & P, S HO UMP J

1-3 Old Coalyard Farm Industrial Estate West End, Northleach, GL54 3HE Tel: 01451 861864 Fax: 01451 861865 info@sebastiansellers.co.uk www.sebastiansellers.co.uk


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000 Editors Welcome December 14:Layout 1

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Welcome Senior Partner Paul Bates 01242 220239 paul@stylemagazines.co.uk Partner Mark Cuzner 07917 821577 mark@stylemagazines.co.uk Business Development Manager Ian McRorie 07917 175919 ian@stylemagazines.co.uk Sales Executive Alastair McClare 01242 220239 ali@stylemagazines.co.uk Sales Executive Bethany Lynch 07807 126214 bethany.lynch@stylemagazines.co.uk Office Manager Carley O’Dea 01242 220239 office@stylemagazines.co.uk Production Consultant Hilary Collier 01242 220239 hilary@stylemagazines.co.uk Editorial Designer Nick Clark 01242 220239 nclark@stylemagazines.co.uk

Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1TA Switchboard: 01242 220239; Fax: 01242 257019; Email: editor@stylemagazines.co.uk or advertising@stylemagazines.co.uk Publisher: Paul Bates; Distribution: Pineapple Media, 172 Northern Parade, Portsmouth, Hants, PO2 9LT. Merchandising services: Patrick Farrelly.

@CotswoldStyle Twitter followers

21,742 CotswoldStyleMagazine Facebook fans

5,134

EDITOR’S FOREWORD HE end of the year is already upon us and this month, Cotswold Style will take you through all the glamour and preparation you need to make it a memorable Christmas. Fashion Editor, Yvette Brentnall has created an opulent, bordello style fashion shoot at Lily Gins in Cheltenham. Tumbling flowers, stunning dresses and glorious headwear – one is sure to be truly ‘stylish’ in the Cotswolds this party season. With all things Christmas, Amanda Surtees and Kate Justice give their hilarious accounts of present buying and being organised on time, whilst interior designer Kelly James, advises on the dream festive look for the house. Food Writer, Shelle Duffin has a tasty recipe for Mince Pie Brownies – an ideal treat for Fathers as well as Father Christmas down the chimney! Claire in the County recently spent a day at Cheltenham Races looking at the fashion attire of sloaney, young bucks. She was in search of bright red trousers - the trendy wardrobe ‘must’, for the county male but found them to be most elusive! We hope to see plenty out wearing them when we head to Cheltenham for a great day’s racing on New Year’s Day. The Cotswold Style Gift Guide showcases some luxury goodies all of us will want in our stockings this year. From clothing to jewels, make-up to skincare, you will find all your heart desires in the pages ahead. Whilst we are celebrating and enjoying a month of partying, please take a moment to remember those who won’t be in such a fortunate position for whatever reason. These include families who can’t be together due to military service and those who work in the community from our police and fire officers to doctors, nurses and care workers amongst many others. I would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and New Year and look forward to seeing you in 2015. With best wishes,

T

Emma Logan Emma Logan, Editor editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

Cover image: www.shutterstock.com

Cotswold Style is published monthly by Cotswold Style Ltd, based at Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1TA. Reproduction of any material, in whole or in part, is strictly forbidden without the prior written consent of the publishers. All material is sent at the owner’s risk and whilst every care is taken, Cotswold Style will not accept liability for loss or damage. Dates, information and prices quoted are believed to be correct at time of going to press but are subject to change and no responsibility is accepted for any errors or omissions. Neither the editor nor publisher accepts responsibility for any material submitted, whether photographic or otherwise. All rights reserved. ISSN no. 1756-6673.

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 9


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t u o ab ENTERTAINMENT

THE MONTPELLIER CHAPTER CHEF’S COOKS CLUB

Friendly affairs held each month, The Montpellier Chapter Cooks Clubs are the ideal events to pick up great cookery knowledge and sample fantastic food. Join us as our Head Chef and his team show you how it is done. This December, the theme will be ‘A Classic Christmas’, focusing on preparing a sumptuous feast fit for a king – or three! Whether it’s the perfect parsnips, pigs in blankets or rustling roast potatoes, or perhaps simply how to serve a bird that Deli and Nigella would be proud of, our chefs will show you exactly how it is done. Watch a live demonstration from the theatre style kitchen followed by a delicious lunch of dishes prepared during the session. The event begins at 11.30AM. Tickets are priced at £15 per person including a demonstration and 2 course lunch. Booking is essential as places are limited. To book, telephone 01242 527788.

EDUCATING RITA Tuesday 9th – Saturday 20th December Willy Russell’s play is a modern classic and presented in the Studio Theatre by the Everyman’s professional company. An hilarious and often moving story of a woman’s determination to change her life. www.everymantheatre.org.uk JAZZ ON A CHRISTMAS EVENING WITH PETER GILL & FRIENDS Monday 8th December Join Peter Gill and his talented six piece

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band for a foot-stomping evening of uplifting live music. Peter offers a dose of sublime, cool jazz, interlaced with a good helping of festive songs and his usual friendly banter. 7.30pm. Tickets: £16.50 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHRISTMAS BALL Saturday 20th December A glamorous evening of festive fun for lovers of social dancing, hosted by Beverley Harwood with live music, ballroom cabaret, and, of course, plenty of mince pies to get you in the Christmas spirit. Keep an eye on our website for further details. 8pm. Tickets: £21.50. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS & FESTIVE SUPPER Wednesday 24th December

An evening with The Boys and Men’s Choir. Come along for a glass of mulled wine and mince pie, listen to the choir and then take a festive supper in the Brasserie. Three courses with coffee £35.00 per person. www.mallory.co.uk NEW YEAR’S EVE MASQUERADE BALL Enjoy a welcome cocktail and a fabulous dinner in The Knights Suite, before dancing the night away to live music from Detroit Soul. Guests will also receive a glass of Champagne at midnight! £99.00 per personUpgrade to the Main House for £139.50 per person www.mallory.co.uk MOULIN ROUGE New Year’s Eve Spectacular Celebrate NYE in style with a Moulin

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com Rouge Spectacular. A seriously chic evening of ‘Oh la la’ fun, set against the backdrop of one of Cheltenham’s most iconic buildings. The extravagant evening will recreate the decadence, glamour and Belle Époque Parisian atmosphere, alongside top class entertainment from The Chip Shop Boys. Three packages to choose from. For more details see: Cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk/NYE Last admission 10.30pm. Carriages at 2am. Over 18s only. Dress code: Smart party-wear, no jeans or trainers, Moulin Rouge inspired dress optional. Round tables for Platine & Noir packages, max 10 per table. Tickets: Platine £90 Noir £69.50 Rouge £29.50 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk MASQUERADE BALL AT THE KINGS HEAD, CIRENCESTER

Dance the night away and see in the New Year in style at the newly opened Kings Head in Cirencester. Join the mystery of masquerade for an evening of celebrations to remember. Enjoy a champagne and canapé reception on arrival followed by a decadent 7-course feast in the hotel restaurant, before taking to the dance floor to enjoy a live band. Carriages 1am. Tickets are priced at £95 per person. Bookings can be made by calling 01285 700900.

NEW YEAR’S AT ELLENBOROUGH PARK Enjoy a warm welcome into 2015. Champagne and canapé reception, evening entertainment from a 14 piece swing band and piper and fireworks at midnight accompanied by a hot toddy and bacon rolls www.ellenboroughpark.com/offer/n ew-years-ellenborough-park/ SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR


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FAMILY SLEEPING BEAUTY Until January 11th

The Everyman’s pantomime is back featuring the return of Tweedy the Clown and William Elliott as the Dame. Family tickets from just £52. www.everymantheatre.org.uk

MATCH Friday 5th – Wednesday 24 December (Studio Theatre) Based on The Little Match Girl by Hans Christan Andersen. A magical and heartwarming tale for young children with storytelling, song, puppetry and live music. www.everymantheatre.org.uk FESTIVE FUN @FOODWORKSCANAPE’S AND FIZZ NIGHT Thursday 11th December

Foodworks will show you how to make an array of stunning Festive canapés to impress all your family and friends this Christmas. Join in the fun on this hands on evening and create some delicious seasonal treats accompanied with a few glasses of fizz! £47.00pp. Limited spaces, please book early. 01242 870538 www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk RAMBLERS’ FESTIVAL OF WINTER WALKS Saturday 20th December to Sunday 4th January People in the South West are being invited

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

Your comprehensive guide to what’s going on in The Cotswolds... with Carley O’Dea to step out with the Ramblers during its annual Festival of Winter Walks and leave footprints in the snow as they explore the area’s beautiful wintry landscapes. Ramblers groups will be leading hundreds of free walks from 20 December 2014 until 4 January 2015. From short festive strolls passing carol singers and Christmas markets to heartier rambles to walk off the mince pies and kick-start new year’s resolutions, there’s something for everyone in the South West to enjoy. Step out with the Ramblers on one of the following free winter wanders in the South West during the Festival of Winter Walks:

For further information about the Festival of Winter Walks and to browse the festive walks or routes on offer, visit: www.ramblers.org.uk/winterwalks.

THAT’LL BE THE DAY Sunday 21st December Get ready to party as the UK’s most successful rock ‘n’ roll variety show returns with its brand new Christmas show. Trevor and the gang celebrate the festive season by bringing back the good times with all your favourite Christmas classics, plus more hilarious comedy routines. 7.30pm Tickets: £26, £24, £12.50 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHRISTMAS EVE CAROLS & FESTIVE SUPPER Wednesday 24th December An evening with The Boys and Men’s Choir. Come along for a glass of mulled wine and mince pie, listen to the choir and then take a festive supper in the Brasserie. Three courses with coffee. £35.00 pp www.mallory.co.uk 26TH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS BARN DANCE Saturday 27th December Round up the whole family and come on down to the 26th Annual Christmas Barn

Dance for a fun evening, featuring fantastic live music from the Diatonics. Don’t worry if you’ve never done the dances before, there will be a specialist caller on stage to take you through the steps. 8pm Tickets: £10.50 Concession: £7 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

CHARITY

CELEBRATE AND REMEMBER THE LIFE OF A LOVED ONE AT CHRISTMAS Tuesday 9th December LINC invite you to join us for a special event at St Lukes Church, Cheltenham. 6.30pm free admission, mince pie and refreshments served. For further information please visit: www.lincfund.org or call 0300 4224422

ROTARY CLUB OF CHELTENHAM NORTH CAROL CONCERT Tuesday 16th December At Princess Hall, Cheltenham ladies College. This year the performers will be soloist Danielle Smithson, the St.Cecilia singers, the forest of dean brass band and two choirs from Leckhampton school. Compere Edward Gillespie. Specific charities who will benefit include: solar aid, crisis and linc. Tickets: from £8 available from Linc 0300 422 4422, Tourist info centre Tel. 01242 237431 and Parabola arts 01242 707338. Start 7.30pm NUTCRACKER Wednesday 17th December Join Winston’s Wish for a Nutcracker themed night at Cheltenham Town Hall, with performances from the sugar fairies and toy soldiers, followed by a sit down dinner and charity raffle in aid of Winston’s Wish and our work with bereaved children and families. Tickets £45 pp. (minimum booking 8 guests) available from www.hypeagency.co.uk or 0117 971 0320. Cheltenham Town Hall, Doors Open 19:30. Carriages 01:00. More info at: www.winstonswish.org.uk/event/ nutcracker-christmas-party/

COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2014 11 COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER


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t u o ab LINC IS INVITING YOU FOR A VERY SPECIAL NIGHT TO REMEMBER AT OUR VIP EVENT – A PRIVATE SCREENING OF THE HOTLY ANTICIPATED MOVIE 50 SHADES OF GREY! Thursday 19th February Come and enjoy an evening with the girls – sip on a delicious Red Room cocktail, enjoy a hand massage and have your make up enhanced by House of Fraser before being taken to your seats for a stunning fashion show with models styled in satin, silk and lace sponsored by Ann Summers. Following the fashion show the film will be screened. Tickets are £20 and available from www.lincfund.org and limited so book today! 7pm at Cheltenham Cineworld, Brewery Complex. DEVIL MUD RUN Saturday 21st and 22nd February

Mud, Sweat and Tears. Angels need not apply! Devil Mud Run is a hardcore, hilly 8 kilometre course featuring over 31 obstacles and gives you the chance to run across open, rugged countryside, through woods with plenty of mud and water thrown in! Whether you’re competing on your own or in a group, participants of the Devil Mud Run will need true grit and determination to complete the course as both physical 12 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

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and mental strength, skill and stamina will be put to the test. To complete the course you will have to jump, climb, wade, crawl, slide, conquer hellish hills, stinking swamps and survive the Devil’s Playground! The course is challenging enough for the most serious of competitors but will be an excellent achievement for any fun runners to complete too. Bring supporters along with you for a fun, family friendly day out! Winston’s Wish is the official charity partner for this event and will receive a percentage of the profits made, we would love you to help us raise even more and join our team. Once you have gained you guaranteed place please email Chloe Moorhead cmoorhead@winstonswish.org.uk or 01242 1515157 as we would love you to join Team Winston.

SPORT CTFC V DOVER Sunday 7th December 14:00 kick off www.ctfc.com

GLOUCESTER RUGBY JUNIOR SUPPORTERS CLUB KIDS CHRISTMAS PARTY Sunday 7th December 12 noon – 1pm Gloucester Rugby’s Junior Supporters club christmas party will take place on Sunday 7 December before the Zebre clash. Join Santa, Gloucester Rugby and a special surprise guest in the Shogun Bar. Entry is free but booking is required and all attendees must be a member of the Junior Supporters Club which is also free! For more information email juniorparty@gloucesterrugby.co.uk GLOUCESTER RUGBY V ZEBRE Sunday 7th December Gloucester Rugby take on Zebre in the European Rugby Challenge cup on Sunday 7 December kick off 3.15pm. Bring the family for just £60 in the JS Stand or £30 in the Stowford Press Terrace with promotion code FAMILYDAY

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com Kick off 3.15pm Visit gloucesterrugby.co.uk or call 0871 871 8781 option 2.

AN EVENING OF DARTS WITH DARTS LEGENDS AND GLOUCESTER RUGBY PLAYERS Tuesday 9th December

Gloucester Rugby and events sponsors Worthington’s are pleased to present an evening with Darts Legends Eric Bristow, Keith Deller, Bobby George and Wayne Mardle hosted by Russ Bray on Tuesday 9 December.Watch current and former Gloucester Rugby players play against the professionals in the 1873 Ricoh Lounge at Kingsholm Stadium. 7pm. Don’t miss out book your tickets now! www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk.

GLOUCESTER RUGBY V BATH RUGBY Saturday 20th December Gloucester Rugby take on local rivals Bath Rugby in the Aviva Premiership on Saturday 20 December kick off 5.30pm. Ticket prices start from just £15 for adults and £5 for juniors. Don’t miss out – book now! www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk. CTFC V PORTSMOUTH Sunday 20th December www.ctfc.com

GLOUCESTER RUGBY V WASPS Sunday 28th December Gloucester Rugby take on Wasps in the Aviva Premiership on Sunday 28 December kick off 2.30pm. Ticket prices start from just £15 for adults and £5 for juniors. Don’t miss out – book now! www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk CTFC V NEWPORT COUNTY Sunday 28th December www.ctfc.com

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR


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Hand Tied Bouquets made to order Wedding Flowers Floral Tributes Corporate Flower Arrangements Delivery Service

Fresh flowers delivered to your door. Montpellier Flowers have a wealth of experience in all aspects of the floristry business, from cutting-edge contemporary design to traditional elegance. Please call us on 01242 517777 for orders and enquiries

Or alternatively, visit our shop in the heart of Montpellier, Cheltenham for personal service and advice. Our address is: 5 Montpellier St, Cheltenham, GL50 1SX

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HAPPY GIFT GIVING Make their Christmas extra special with fabulously festive gifts from Phase Eight, Jigsaw, Ghost, Ecco and many more - all for up to 60% less.

Carvela at Kurt Geiger £49 Outlet Price £35 Fossil £125 Outlet Price £79.99

CHRISTMAS EVENTS Enjoy magical reindeer visits on the 29th of November and the 6th, 13th and 20th of December, and Victorian carol singers on the 6th and 20th of December.

Jeff Banks £95 Outlet Price £65

Ted Baker £99 Outlet Price £59

Lacoste £45 Outlet Price £30

French Connection £145 Outlet Price £87

THE GIFT OF CHOICE Fossil £55 Outlet Price £24.99

M&S £12.50 Outlet Price £8.50

If they love to shop, our McArthurGlen gift cards are the perfect present – simply go online, choose your value and spread the joy.

M&S Bra £19.50 Outlet Price £14 M&S Knickers £12.50 Outlet Price £6.50

Emporio Armani at Watch Station £279 Outlet Price £179

Lacoste £99 Outlet Price £39

Jeff Banks £55 Outlet Price £38.50

SwindonDesignerOutlet.com | #HappyGiftGiving Products featured are subject to availability. All prices are correct at time of going to print. COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 15


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Meet... Jessica Frankopan

essica Frankopan is a fifth generation Sainsbury, one of the bright and energetic scions of the supermarket family who have broken the mold to follow careers outside of shopkeeping. “I briefly worked at Sainsbury’s in my 20s; had I been the generation above, I probably would have stayed in food retailing,” Jessica says. “I have a passion for supermarkets – I can spend hours there,” she laughs, adding that she remains very loyal to the family firm (but doesn’t get a discount). It wasn’t until one afternoon, ten years after Peter and Jessica met, that they were struck by the idea of becoming hoteliers. “It was probably quite a good thing that we were young and foolish,” says Jessica. “We’d gone from low-budget backpacking in our 20s, to slowly wanting to spoil ourselves a bit with romantic weekends away and realised how uncomfortable we felt in the very formal, hushed country hotels at the time. It felt like we had to be on our best behaviour all the time.” So, at the age of 30, they scribbled down on a sheet of A4 paper their idea of what would make a great country hotel and embarked on the search for what was to become their first hotel - Cowley Manor, a large 1855 Villa once owned by Lord Horlick, and rumoured to have been the inspiration for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland; with Lewis Carroll meeting his muse ‘Alice’ on the banks of Cowley. “The house itself was extremely sad and dilapidated,” Jessica says. “But when we walked around the gardens, past the cascades, we were instantly hooked.” After two years of careful restoration, the hotel opened its doors in 2002. Jessica’s eye for simplicity and vibrant texture with splashes of colour not only brought the hotel to life but also delivered a fresh approach to the country retreat – consequently becoming a favourite bolt hole for designers, celebrities and artists alike. “Modern doesn’t have to be dull. It is more welcoming and homely and fun to have colour,” she says. “Anything slightly too tasteful feels contrived. I go

J

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– Co Founder of A Curious Group of Hotels and Green & Spring. Married to Peter Frankopan, with four children, Peter & Jessica split their time between London, Oxford and Cheltenham

by what I like and often, if I can’t find the pieces I want, I look to commission them.” In fact, Cowley Manor has provided the platform for many first commissions in textiles, architecture and sculpture. This has also led to creating an annual arts award with the Royal College of Art which sees seven selected artists curating a summer sculpture exhibition in the grounds each year with the winning sculpture taking up permanent residence. “We could have bought art and put it in the landscape but we wanted to give young artists the opportunity to express themselves within the context of Cowley and to engage with its history, its use and its future. We didn’t want to give stringent guidelines – we wanted to see what developed organically. ” The results have been diverse from rolling cheese to brass carrots, Hollywood inspired signs to wire tornados set within the lake. “It’s always a highlight of the year to run through the submissions,” says Jessica, “the students always pick up on Cowley’s playful side and get that we’ll never be, or want to be prescriptive.” Where Jessica was willing to be prescriptive, however, was in the development of Cowley Manor’s bath,

body and skincare range, Green & Spring. “We had an existing product range which we used at Cowley Manor and had received great feedback from our guests but they weren’t entirely natural, something that was becoming a growing concern of mine.” Further inspiration came from the immediate surroundings at Cowley - the countryside abounds with naturally efficacious herbs and flowers. “I definitely have an affinity for the Cotswolds; one can never tire of the green rolling hills and picturesque villages that dot the land. We have a family home here and it’s the birth place of our passion for hotels, so it was a natural source of inspiration for Green & Spring. It was also out of a growing concern for the environment that we began to develop the brand and soon realised that it was entirely possible to create products which were active, natural and handmade right here in Britain.” Green & Spring products are created using herbs and flowers native to the British Isles. They only use 100% natural botanical materials, all the herbal extracts are sourced from the UK and every ingredient is sourced ethically. With Green & Spring adorning the shelves of the best loved retail giants and boutiques and A Curious Group of Hotels expanding at a pace, including hotels in Paris, London and Amsterdam, Peter and Jessica keep very busy and are always on the look out for new and interesting projects as well as pursuing their passion for art and design. www.curioushotels.com


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Interview

One to One with ANGENOIR Cotswold Style Editor Emma Logan met with Marchella De Angelis (MDA) owner of club lounge extraordinaire, Ange Noir What is the story behind AngeNoir? My projects have always germinated from the heart of my imagination. AngeNoir is a little piece of magical fantasy targeted at a specific sector of the public. You refer to a specific sector – can you elaborate on that? Well that’s not an easy question to answer but in a nutshell; I guess it is aimed at a more sophisticated audience seeking a slightly decadent and glamorous setting. It’s for people who want to be anesthetised by aesthetics, art and vibe in a quirky yet beautiful environment. And why did you choose Cheltenham? Are we ready for AngeNoir? I love the Cotswolds and always have. I feel that there is a spirit of regeneration and positive growth in this town and why should something different and original only sprout from London? Explain the concept behind the Pop Ups? Pop Ups have been popular in London

for quite a while now and it allows for a variety of uses to take place in the same space. This means different sub cultures can originate and this is a good thing because it also allows for inter connection between entrepreneurs from all walks of life.

So tell us a little about Angelicious? I met promoter and record producer Gideon Dawson after he hounded me for months whilst I was undertaking the restorations at AngeNoir, about wanting to do some events at the venue. When we finally met it was easy to put the concept together. In truth Angelicious is a reflection of what we both felt was perhaps missing in the market. Gideon is a creative like myself. The theme of the brand is an evolution of his former promotions Superlicious. I feel this is more grown up though – and the vibe is also about music that we both share in taste. We have both had enough of Hard House and Techno and he really appreciated the way AngeNoir turned out.

So how does it work? Is this simply a one off event? No not all…well I hope not. Angelicious will host twice a month at AngeNoir on selected evenings. There’s something a little underground about the whole thing. It’s not so commercially middle of the road and our fans will always be kept up to date but it will not be routine. You launch your first night on the 13th of December and follow suit with another Angelicious event for New Years Eve. What is that going to be about? Angelicious on New Year’s Eve is a ticket holder’s only event which will cost £25 per person and our capacity is strictly limited. This will include a welcome drink, guilty pleasures and a glass of champagne to see the New Year in. We really hope it will be a special night for those that choose to attend. Ange Noir 1A Crescent Place, Cheltenham, GL50 3NX Tel: 01242 587211 www.angenoir.co.uk

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“designing home for christmas

Cheltenham T 01242 269374 E cheltenham@rra-arch.com Hereford T 01432 278707 E hereford@rra-arch.com London T 0207 377 5458 E london@rra-arch.com

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Over the following pages we feature some of the fantastic properties that are on sale or to be let in the Cotswolds

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000 property knight frank December 14:Layout 1

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Kingsley Evans Dec 14:Layout 1

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call:01242 222292 online: www.kingsleyevans.co.uk email: info@kingsleyevans.co.uk David Evans Director in

GLENFALL HOUSE, MILL LANE, CHARLTON KINGS £2,650.000 AN IMPOSING GRADE 11 LISTED MANSION WITHIN A BEAUTIFUL RURAL SETTING AND OFFERING GREAT POTENTIAL. Glenfall House is an imposing residence sited within tranquil and charming grounds. Believed to have 17th century origins, the property has been used as a Christian retreat and conference centre and as such, now offers potential for a number of uses. At circa 18,500 Sq.Ft the property comprises 16 Bedrooms and 6 Reception rooms The Cottage comprises 4 Bedrooms 4 Reception Rooms The Coach House comprises 3 Reception Rooms 3 Bedrooms Large Outbuildings Garaging Truly breath-taking Grounds of about 4.37 Acres.

THE PARK £1,395,000 AN IMPOSING VILLA SITED IN ONE OF CHELTENHAMS FINEST AREAS. Park Lawn is a beautiful and imposing semi-detached villa sited within glorious gardens and offering substantial accommodation over four floors comprising Reception Hall Drawing Room Dining Room Morning/ Reading Room Kitchen/Breakfast Room Conservatory Study Eight Bedrooms Four Bath/Shower Rooms Double Garage Swimming Pool Pretty and Private Gardens.

SPECIALISTS IN PRIME PROPERTY

visit: 115 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW


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call:01242 222292 online: www.kingsleyevans.co.uk email: info@kingsleyevans.co.uk David Evans Director in

SWINDON VILLAGE

£795,000

A CHARMING AND BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED HOME IN A LOvELY SETTING.

PITTVILLE

£695,000

A BEAUTIFUL REGENCY TOWNHOUSE FORMING PART OF A PRETTY PARADE WITH ITS OWN TWO BED APARTMENT

Indicative of its era, Queen Anne Cottage offers a wealth of charm and perfectly reflects a wonderful synergy between period features and the modern requirements of family living. The spacious accommodation is set over three floors comprising Reception Hall Drawing Room Dining Room Reading/Sitting Room Kitchen/Breakfast Room Guest Suite with Dressing Room & En Suite Master Suite with En Suite Two Further Bedrooms Family Bathroom Walled and Pretty Garden Off Road Parking Garage.

This charming family home offers spacious accommodation set over three floors and is further complemented by its own two bedroom self contained apartment. Accommodation comprises Reception Hall Drawing Room Dining Room Kitchen Three Bedrooms Three Bath/Shower Rooms Two Bedroom Self-Contained apartment Pretty Garden Off Road Parking.

SHEEPSCOMBE

LECKHAMPTON

£595,000

A BEAUTIFULLY RESTORED AND DECEPTIvELY SPACIOUS COTTAGE WITH STUNNING vIEWS. The old period style has been retained throughout with a contrasting extension offering a contemporary feel Entrance Hall Drawing Room Spectacular Kitchen/Breakfast Room Three Bedrooms Two En Suite Facilities Luxury Family Bathroom Pretty Landscaped Gardens Off Road Parking Breath Taking views.

SPECIALISTS IN PRIME PROPERTY

£550,000

A BEAUTIFUL EXAMPLE OF A CONTEMPORARY TOWNHOUSE IN THE HEART OF LECKHAMPTON, WITH PARKING & GARAGE. This beautiful new home is built in period style and reflects a meticulous build, designed with open plan living and entertainment in mind. The accommodation is arranged over three floors and offers elegant proportions Sitting Room Kitchen Dining/Family Room in an Orangery Master bedroom Family Bathroom Two Further bedrooms with Luxury En-Suites Study Pretty Kensington style Gardens Garage Off Road Parking.

visit: 115 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW


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Hot Property

Wellington Road Pittville, Cheltenham Setting the scene: Situated in a conversation area on the much sought after Wellington Road overlooking the famous ornamental gardens of Pitville Lawn. Why we love it: Devonshire House is a beautifully renovated Grade II listed raised ground floor Regency apartment. It has been lovingly restored and renovated to the highest specification. The apartment benefits from high ceilings, floor to ceiling sash windows with shutters, ornate ceiling roses, intricate cornicing, deep skirting boards and marble fireplaces. Apartment 1 has private use of the front pillared entrance, with a garage, off road gated parking for two cars and a lawned garden which is surrounded with shrubs and wrought iron railings ensuring privacy. The large open reception hall offers plenty of hand built storage cupboards and shelving and solid wood flooring. The drawing room which has a double aspect is a delightful room with fantastic proportions and leads through, via a pillared arch with double bi-folding doors, to the kitchen dining room. The kitchen is fully fitted with quality appliances, plenty of cupboards and work top space and ample room for a large dining table. The master bedroom is very impressive with a stunning curved bay window overlooking the immaculate communal lawns. There are ample built in wardrobes, a lovely marble fire place and a modern ensuite. The large second bedroom has use of a bathroom. You can access the rear of the property via the smart communal area. To the rear are the communal gardens and the coach house. The coach house is currently being restored to provide a garage/workshop, utility/kitchenette with games room/bedroom above and an ensuite shower room. Guide Price ÂŁ725,000 Hayley Wilks , hayley.wilks@knightfrank.com

01242 246959 30 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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Hot Property

Lansdown Place Lane, Cheltenham Setting the scene: Close to the popular district of Montpellier and tucked away behind a prestigious terrace of period homes are a pair of stunning newly converted mews houses, Atticus house and Tacitus house. Why we love it: Atticus and Tacitus have been converted to an extremely high specification and offer contemporary spaces with practical features. Each house has an open plan kitchen/dining/living room, which is a lovely modern space with a glass paneled stair case leading up to the first floor. The kitchens are fitted with a range of smart contemporary units housing a fridge, dishwasher, oven and hob. There is a separate utility room, cloakroom and large larder/storage cupboard, with further storage provided by an under stairs cupboard. There is wooden flooring throughout the ground floors. Upstairs, each house has two good double bedroom suites both fitted with contemporary styled bath/shower rooms and wardrobes built in. EPC Rating C. nick.chivers@knightfrank.com 01242 246959 Guide Price £375,000 –£395,000

MARKET COMMENT After a challenging summer and a late start to the traditionally strong autumn market I am delighted to report a significant upturn in activity levels during October with many more sales being agreed as a consequence. The difficulty now facing potential buyers is the lack of quality property coming to the market. This lack of stock is unlikely to create the classic rules of supply and demand where prices increase, but instead will create a general stagnation in the market place with buyers waiting for the next wave of new instructions to come forward. It is difficult to predict what the next 6 months have in store for us, but with a general election in May next year it is certain to provide some challenging market conditions. My advice to potential sellers would be to prepare for an earlier than usual launch in the New Year, the closer we

get to election time the more distracted buyers will become and perhaps less inclined to make large financial commitments. Properties in particular demand at the moment include period town homes in the range of £600-900K and substantial family properties in the Balcarras catchment area from £500 - £1m If you would like to take advantage of our depth of knowledge and global reach please do contact us for a free confidential market appraisal. Nick Chivers nick.chivers@knightfrank.com

01242 246959 COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 31


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Hot Property

Apartment 1, Oakfield, 93 The Park Cheltenham Setting the scene: A beautifully presented, Grade II Listed, duplex apartment with an unusually large garden understood to be about 144 feet in length on the western elevation of the property. Why we love it: Communal hall, entrance hall, drawing room, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, two stores, two double bedrooms, en suite bathroom, shower room. large garden, garage, parking. Accessed from either the parking area or from double doors via the kitchen/breakfast room, the garden is a stunning and private area with patio, lawns and mature shrubs. There is a parking area and garage to the front. Inside the apartment is found in excellent decorative order and is arranged over two floors. On the lower ground floor is a wonderful 26 foot kitchen/breakfast room with a range of fitted units including an island unit, double doors to the garden and a separate door to the front parking area. Stairs lead up to the ground floor, adjacent to which is a shower room and useful rooms including a utility room and store rooms. On the ground floor are two double bedrooms, one with an en suite bathroom, and a magnificent drawing room with wonderful high ceilings and a superb view across the garden.

Guide Price: ÂŁ575,000 Details: Savills, Cheltenham, Tel: 01242 548 000 www.savills.co.uk 32 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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36E The Broadwalk Cheltenham Setting the scene: 36E The Broadwalk is located on the second floor of a delightful, purpose built, property which was constructed in the Regency style about fifteen years ago and benefits from wonderful views over Imperial Gardens. Why we love it: The apartment offers spacious accommodation with large sash windows in the drawing room. Communal landing, entrance hall, kitchen, drawing room,dining room/occasional bedroom, two bedrooms both with en suite bathroom/ shower rooms, family bathroom, allocated underground parking space, communal gardens, lift, video entryphone.There is a lift within the building and the property benefits from an allocated parking space.

Guide Price: ÂŁ449,950 Details: Savills, Cheltenham, Tel: 01242 548 000; www.savills.co.uk

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 33


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Hot Property

Leckhampton, Cheltenham Setting the scene: A stunning example of a detached and beautifully presented family home in Cheltenham’s finest residential areas. Why we love it: Sited on the popular and much sought after Leckhampton Road, this stunning residence reflects the wonderful synergy between the old period charm indicative of its era and the modern twist conducive to family living. This substantial family home is Circa 3800 Sq.Ft and offers beautifully proportioned living and bedroom accommodation. There are charming features throughout this home and thought has been given to stylish living and entertaining, reception hall, drawing room, sitting room/family room, kitchen/breakfast room, dining room, six bedrooms, study/bedroom seven, four bath/shower rooms, pretty gardens, grand sweeping driveway behind wrought iron railings. Price: £995,000; Details: Kingsley Evans, Cheltenham Tel: 01242 222292 wisemanj@kingsleyevans.co.uk; www.kingsleyevans.co.uk 34 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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000 Gift Guide December 14:Layout 1

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Ring avaliable from Bicks of Montpellier

ALL I WANT FOR

CHRISTMAS Pop one of these on your wish-list to make sure Santa remembers you this month...

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Christmas tableware available from Toot Sweet,Cheltenham Wooden lantern, £60, House of Fraser, Cheltenham

REN Gift Sets are priced from £16 - £45 and can be purchased from The Montpellier Chapter, Cheltenham ion, £45, sized cush HOME over er, Cheltenham as Fr House of

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36 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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Gift Guide

Necklace available from Bakers Fine Jewellery, 15 Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham

Looking for a more bespoke gift? Allow that special someone to choose from the full menu of treatments with a Montpellier Chapter Gift Voucher.

Bracelet available from Bakers Fine Jewellery, 15 Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham

Beoplay A2 Portable Bluetooth Speaker, £299, available in 3 colours available from Bang & Olufsen of Cheltenham, Montpellier Cheltenham. Tel: 01242 578757

Embellished Hurricane Vase, £35, House of Fraser, Cheltenham

Breitling Navitimer from Beards, Cheltenham

Dents suede gloves, deep red suede enhanced with a black curly faux fur cuff. £45. Visit www.dents.co.uk for your nearest stockist or call 01985 212291.

XMAS Lanterns er, House of Fras Cheltenham

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 37


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Gift Guide

Gold shoes from Cocorose London, £80, House of Fraser, Cheltenham

Lingerie available from Sandra Dee, 3 Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham, www.sandradee.co.uk

’ Red ‘Abbey Road backpack from Radley, £159, House of Fraser, Cheltenham

Black patent quilted bag from Love Moschino, £145, House of Fraser, Cheltenham

Red tartan coat, £169,

House of Fraser, Chelten

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38 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

ham

Beoplay H2 Headphones, available in 3 colours, £169, available from Bang & Olufsen of Cheltenham, Montpellier Cheltenham. Tel: 01242 578757


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Styling your home Over the following pages we showcase stylish interiors and everything you need to turn your house into a home...

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Interiors

Painting by the Sea This month Clive Burling goes to Devon to breath some life into a holiday home When a client mentioned to me in the summer that she had bought a holiday home in Devon and would I like to go down and ‘sort the furniture out’, I obviously jumped at the chance. “When would you like me to go?” I asked, already anticipating with some relish an enforced summer holiday with lashings of sun, seafood and clotted cream. The answer still gave me some reason for optimism, “as soon as it’s available”. Dreams of a late summer break came and went, along with autumn, until finally, here I am, in the middle of November in sunny Salcombe. Wow! Now I know why this beautiful town on the Devon coast is so popular! I took some time out to get a feel for the place and hopefully am inspired before starting my painting. It’s another world. The colours at this time of year are always fantastic but by the sea in Salcombe, they are spectacular. I always like to keep an open mind when approaching any job. The brief in this case was a fairly standard one: grey, beige, offwhite and keep the costs down! Nothing much there to get the creative juices flowing but I did have the get out clause, “you do what you think works Clive”. Great!

Before

After

The house had been bought fully furnished and like a lot of holiday homes, the furniture isn’t really given a great deal of thought other than for its functionality, which is very true in this case. I find it much easier to relax if the place I’m staying in has that ‘lived in’ homely feel, rather than a cold impersonal ‘empty’ one. Back to the house with a head full of bright blue, sea green, pastel weather worn shades on boats and houses alike, it was back to reality. So I’m thinking, stick to the brief but get as much colour in as you can. Painting furniture is not just about colour though. Texture, feel and continuity all come in to play. Context too. This is the seaside, a hub for sailing and fishing, so, without going too overboard, I really need to incorporate some or all of those influences into this house. The kitchen seemed a good place to start, so here are some images of work done so far and some of my influences. I’ll update you next month on the finished project. If you would like a holiday in this fabulous house in Salcombe, it’s called ‘Fordlea’ and is available through Coast and Country Cottages. I highly recommend it! Clive Burling Call 07788257914 Email clive.paints@gmail.com Twitter @clive.paints

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 41


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COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 43


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000 Kelly James December 14:Layout 1

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Interiors

IT’S THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR! Interior Designer Kelly James talks through some of this years Christmas trends PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHADOWPLAY

Christmas for me, is definitely the most wonderful time of the year! Is it the food, the time off work, the decorations, the presents or is it all about my children’s excitement for Christmas? I think it’s the combination of them all. Every year I start the thinking process early. I enjoy discussing recipes with girlfriends to try and discover the simple way of cooking lunch for 10 and entertaining friends at parties and I watch all the cookery programmes for ideas but still seem to do the same as last year, though really enjoying the process. The ‘works’ party is a date in my diary to work towards; always busy until that point but plan to try and wind down afterwards. The tin of sweets and Christmas music is obligatory to get everyone in the spirit. The children have been talking me through their Christmas lists since the summer but I always leave the buying until as late as possible as there will always be a last minute change – that’s guaranteed! The ultimate Christmas experience for me is decorating the house (usually with Baileys, mince pies and more Christmas music playing). It’s a temporary form of interior

design, decorating your home with precious ornaments that have been in the family for years as well as new ones which will soon be full of memories and will join the old ‘keep sacks’ next year. The children will decorate the tree but I look forward to them going to bed so I can do it again without hurting their feelings. We sit and look at the twinkly lights on the tree but through half closed eyes so they go all blurry. Decorating my home is a chance to create ‘Christmas’, the opportunity comes but once a year and with the Christmas table taking centre stage, the yearly question is – what colour scheme will the table be this year? I will be choosing black and white with a splash of gold. One of my favourite website’s all year round is Rockett St George so I was delighted to see their winter lookbook is very black and lots of lovely things to fit within my colour scheme. Show are a few of my picks that I will be using this year. There are lots more goodies on www.rockettstgeorge.co.uk Having had weeks of planning, parties and decorations everything is in place for the big day. The plate is ready – carrots for Rudolph and mince pies with milk for Santa is in place, very excited children are in bed so I settle

down for the night, watch yet another re-run of an old show, sip a night cap and half close my eyes to see the blurry tree lights. I will look forward to next year’s planning, parties and decorations – what will the Christmas interior design trends be? To discuss your interior design project contact Kelly James at Shadowplay Design on 01242 253700.

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000 Gardening Camilla Bassett December 14:Layout 1

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Behind the Garden Gate As we count down to Christmas, our Cheltenham based Media Horticulturalist, Camilla Bassett-Smith, lifts the latch on a Gossington gate... t this time of year, a gaggle of geese has recently descended upon Slimbridge and as they prepare for landing I hasten a guess that they raise a beaky smile of aerial appreciation as they fly over the nearby Gossington Hall. Built in the 1600s on the site of an old Monastery and home now to garden designer Caroline Tatham and her family, this site is a heritage heavy, horticultural haven. When the Joint Core Strategy has finished building its thousands of homes on our Cotswold land, one thing you can guarantee is that no property will come with its own medieval stew pond (where

A

48 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

the monks would breed fish for their table). I doubt too whether 400 Oaks will be appearing on the particulars. However, if you listen to Caroline, anyone can make their garden what they want it to be and just need the tools to carry out their wishes. It is these tools that Caroline has been providing students with ever since she set up her Cotswold Gardening School business at her imposing home in Gloucestershire. With a background in fashion, this lady clearly has a creative eye whilst also being clearly aware of what is manageable. To keep weeds down at Gossington Hall, she employs the method of planting, to eradicate weeds – that is using certain plants that will out compete with weeds, reducing the need to regularly get down on your

hands and knees. If weeds are a problem in your home, pitching them next to Carex pendula or Pampas Grass, is like Britain trying to beat Eastern Europe in The Eurovision Song Contest! Caroline believes that our society has become less formal and in many ways this is pretty empowering. We are able to garden in a relaxed style today and appreciate every season that a garden has to offer. It was this thinking that led to the creation of ‘A Brave New World of


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Gardening

Beauty’, Caroline’s garden design for the RHS Malvern Autumn Show. This creation challenged the idea that a garden shuts down in the winter, using grasses, seed heads and strong foliage such as the passionately purple Heucheras and scintillatingly silver Eucalyptus. The garden was featured at the Cheltenham Literature Festival in October and took its name from the Festival’s theme of Brave New Worlds. It was here that I first met Caroline, preceding a talk from Mr Alan Titchmarsh, who along with James Alexander-Sinclair, sang the praises of this horticultural delight. Back on her home turf, I spent a most enjoyable afternoon at Gossington Hall, seeking out all that her borders had to offer. A side garden displays borders in colour themes, starting on the outside with reds and oranges (hot border style), blending to blues/pinks and purples, with the core borders taking on a predominantly pink theme. Pink is the over-riding colour used throughout this area and the dull pinks of Sedum are still evident even on this cold winter day. Of course at this time of year, we’re looking

more at foliage and berries and the spikes of Miscanthus giganteus remind me of that famous line from Oklahoma “The Corn is as high as an elephant’s eye”. (Not that there are any elephants in rural Gloucestershire!) Hips from Rosa rugosa also sing out like large red Christmas baubles clinging together to keep warm! A circular maze has begun to take form which once established, will provide an interesting contrast between noise which can be heard from the M5 outside of the hedging and anticipated silence from within the hedging, creating its own tune. This will be one impressive orchestra with Caroline, baton (or trowel) in hand, at the helm. Plants used here include Alder and Cornus, which although mostly celebrated for its wood colouring, during my visit were displaying the most eye-catching snowwhite berries. Passing a planting of cherry trees and

crab apples, I was pleased to find that I’m not the only Gloucestershire horticulturalist to favour the somewhat un-fashionable Prunus ‘Kanzan’ – like candyfloss on a large lollypop trunk in my mind and pretty as a picture! Caroline uses mood boards when creating garden designs and is a firm believer in the use of hand drawings to offer as much creativity as possible. She does of course use computers in her designs too but says that in many ways doing a garden design on a computer is a bit like dancing a ballet in your wellies – you can’t get that subtlety and finesse! So as my own wellies wandered under the guard of the regal Wellingtonia at Gossington and back to the car, I look forward to what 2015 will see from Caroline Tatham. She’s mentoring the Festival Garden exhibitors at the RHS Malvern Spring Festival in 2015 but before that, there’s Christmas wreaths to be made, plants to be pruned, students to be taught – it’s all go at Gossington! COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 49


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Cleeve Hill

Regent Windows Unit 1 and 2 Malmesbury Road Kingsditch Trading Estate Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL51 9PL

Tel: 01242 690 545 Email: info@regentwindows.co.uk www.regentwindows.co.uk

Glebelands 50 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

Tivoli Villas


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The Old Dairy

Regent has been Manufacturing and Installing Bespoke windows and doors since 1994. Our emphasis on Durable Materials and an Engineering-Led approach that Focuses on Longevity has lead to Regent being nominated for a RIBA award. Our extensive work with Commercial Design and close relationships with leading Architects mean years of Experience and Know-How can be brought to bear on your Project. We’re Local Family-Run business who employ local people in our Factory, Showroom and Offices in Cheltenham. Everything we do is Fabricated and Installed by our Staff. Now in our 20th year of Fabricating and Installing Aluminium, PVC and Glass; our Conservatories, Lantern roofs, Bi-Folding Doors and Windows are found all over Gloucestershire, as well as throughout the UK. We are Partnered with Smarts Systems, whose Hard-Wearing, thermally-broken aluminium can be powder-coated to Your Choice of Colour. We beleive in Longevity; not only of the Materials we use, but also in our Relationsips with Our Customers. COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 51


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CRAIG DERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

My Diary

ell the nights have drawn in, the temperature has dropped and the Farm Park is adjusting to another season. The thermals and winter gear have been dug out of the cupboards and bobble hats are being donned by the Display Team. It’s official...winter has arrived. Our day starts at 8am and no matter what the weather’s doing, the priority is to feed and water all the animals, mucking out every single one of them. I have to admit, I do have my favourites. We had some new arrivals in November, with brand new gorgeous and spotty Kune Kune piglets. The breed originates from New Zealand and they are super-friendly. They love nothing more than a good scratch of their belly! All of this is certainly a good way to kick start our day and get the blood flowing, as we’re on a schedule to make sure all of the animal pens are clean, tidy and presentable in time for opening at 10.30am. We have a set daily routine and we also need to be prepared for all of our demonstrations. One of our seasonal demos for December is the infamous Living Nativity, with our fantastic stage and real live animals. It’s the perfect setting to narrate the Nativity story to groups of children, sat patiently waiting to get their hands on our star of the show… this year, a chocolate coloured donkey foal called Dancer. She is gorgeous, with the softest muzzle I’ve ever stroked, it feels like velvet. We PHOTO: ROB WHEATMAN

W

were halter training her throughout autumn, preparing her for her debut. It’s not been plain sailing though, she is rather cheeky! We’ve been spending 10 minutes with her each morning and afternoon, just getting her used to being handled and gently gaining her trust; grooming her, touching her back and legs and lightly coaxing her on the leading rein. So if you’re looking for something to do with the family this month, for adults and kids alike, you should come along and check whether our hard work with Dancer has paid off! If you can tie it into a weekend visit, we’ll also have a very special visitor with us. Father Christmas will be setting up his temporary grotto and spreading festive joy by giving an early Christmas gift to each child who visits him. Even though we’re winding down to the end of the season and closing at 4pm, there’s still time to crack on with some of my favourite jobs. I actually love the physical hard graft that comes with

PHOTO: ROB WHEATMAN

Mandy Hall takes us through a typical winter’s day at Cotswold Farm Park

farming. I’m happiest mucking out pig and goat pens, replenishing all the feed bins with our food concentrate, lifting endless hay and straw bales, deep cleaning our incubators... the list is endless and there’s always a job that needs doing somewhere. I also like to organise and clean, giving everything a home, like the endless amounts of buckets we seem to have. By doing these jobs, it also gives us time to start thinking about the larger projects we need to do on the farm during the period that we are closed to the public. We’ll be resurfacing the floor of the Touch Barn, jet washing gates and revamping any slightly tired areas, ready for February 14th, when it all begins again. The Cotswold Farm Park is open 10.30am-4pm every day until December 21st. The Living Nativity takes place every day throughout December. For more information visit www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk To keep up to date with all the latest Farm Park gossip, follow Mandy on Twitter @mandyfarmpark

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 53


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Cruising Chic Style any of us are enthralled by the idea of seeing the world by boat, setting sail on a voyage of discovery such as the early 19th century British explorers had done. Whether cruising the world’s oceans or rivers, even the most discerning traveller can be catered for whether that be the Arctic, Amazon or the Irrawaddy. Today’s world of elegant ocean cruising is very chic with boats more like floating boutique hotels with the added luxury of plenty of personal space and private designer suites and sun decks, giving the feel that you are on your own private yacht. Apart from the excitement of such novelties as infinity pools jutting out from the aft deck, celebrity chefs and moonlit fine dining, there is always bucket loads of fresh air, breath-taking views of indigo blue and a haven of peace and refinement at your fingertips. Exclusive boats also offer private balconies, pools, in-suite treatments and such luxuries as your own personal butler where your comfort is priority, starting with attentive service including unpacking, shoeshine, afternoon tea and cocktails. An ocean cruise makes for a very special holiday and is ideal for family groups as well as for couples looking for a romantic retreat. If the motion of the ocean is not for you then imagine a luxurious cruiser gliding through sublime landscapes on the river where the highlights, colour, history and charm of a country can be enjoyed from the luxury of your own private deck. A river is often the main artery, trading route, source of food and water and social centre of a country and a wonderful way to absorb the flavour of a destination is to cruise along part of its length, while enjoying a fascinating insight into the local life. For ocean-going ships there are many wonderful and varied destinations with the Philippines and Indonesia currently being very popular, although venturing through Antarctica’s dramatic and ragged white fringe with the added thrill of setting foot on the peninsula and meeting penguins and fur seals face to face, is one of the top ‘do-

M

54 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

Self-professed adventuress Lucy Garbutt discovers that cruising is the new cool way to travel

Ananda cruise on the Irrawaddy

Temples at Bagan

before-you-die’ experiences. Luxurious river boats can be found on the Amazon in Ecuador, Peru and Brazil, the Ganges, the Danube and of course many European rivers. However, the Mekong River is one of the planet’s most enigmatic rivers and offers one of the world’s most remarkable river cruise experiences. At 4,350km this is the longest river in Southeast Asia rising in China with the route flowing through thriving cities, rural and floating villages, markets and rice paddies, pagodas and

temples eventually forming part of the border between Myanmar and Laos and ending in the stunning delta of Vietnam. However, Myanmar is perhaps 2015’s hottest river cruise destination and as one of Asia’s most isolated, culturally varied and exciting countries, a cruise up the Irrawaddy River will take you to one of the remotest part of Southeast Asia. The Irrawaddy stretches like Myanmar’s backbone from north to south linking the people, their economy and country and the river is lined with pagodas, palaces,


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Travel

Sauver Nigam – a delightful converted rice barge that explores the canals of Kerala's famed Backwaters

temples and pretty villages. A cruise from Mandalay gives you the perfect vantage point from which to enjoy a glimpse of local life, with children playing, elephants wallowing, fishermen paddling with their shins, lumberjacks tethering teak timber to flotillas of bamboo rafts, women washing clothes and their vegetables, farmers ploughing with buffalo and sightings of the rare Irrawaddy dolphin for the lucky few. You can end your cruise in Bagan where 2,000 ruined temples are scattered across a vast plain or extend the trip onto Inle Lake. I was lucky enough to travel through part of Laos by river on a journey to Luang Prabang, which is the best-

Expedition chic where you can see Antarctica in style

preserved traditional town in Southeast Asia. My cruise up the Mekong started from the tiny but grand French colonial capital of Vientiane. Cruising in style makes for a fascinating and enchanting journey and brings the heart and soul of a country to you at a very gentle and relaxed pace. It offers a different perspective of local life with neat green rows of peanut and sweet potato plants lining the sandy riverbanks, Jackfruit and tamarind trees hiding the villages where looms are busy weaving inside bamboo houses, men cast their rippling nets into the brown waters in search of catfish and children play at the water’s edge with mothers busy with their chores.

Following the World Odyssey philosophy of ‘where the masses go we will not take you’ whether that be Alaska to Asia, Australasia to the Amazon, the Caribbean to Canada, cruises can be tailor-made for you with extra port time if desired, allowing exploration of the world at leisure. For more information on anything to do with cruises to far-flung shores please visit www.world-odyssey.com – follow us @World_Odyssey, like us on Facebook and/or call one of our travel specialists for advice on: 01905 731373. Bonne Voyage!

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 55


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Coffee Break

ASTAWAY LEGO - a source of many nostalgic childhood memories and an iconic toy since 1932. With almost 28 sets sold each second at Christmas, LEGO will certainly be filling Christmas stockings far and wide this festive season. In true Yuletide spirit, Ellie Mainwaring unwraps the Castaway Collection of LEGO’s Design Manager Mike Fuller Where in the world will you choose to be a castaway and why?

The Isle of Man. The island is a welcome haven to bikers worldwide and annually hosts the TT Races. I’m a huge motorcycle fan and love nothing more than watching my heroes risk their lives in the pursuit of speed. Living such a hectic lifestyle, I find it’s some of life’s simplest pleasures that you find refuge in. When I’m on my bike, I have no option but to forget everything else and focus on what I’m doing - one man, his bike, his tent and the road ahead. Peace at speed. What item of jewellery or accessory would you take?

My St Christopher. It’s a medallion on a chain that keeps me safe when I travel. It was a gift from my Grandmother when I was a boy and I’ve worn it around my neck ever since, never taking it off. I currently spend a lot of my life travelling around the world exploring exciting new ventures for Lego. During my time away, there are lots of things I can afford to forget but this would not be one of them. I’d feel naked without it.

You can take the entire works of one musician to your desert island, who will it be?

Steel Pulse - I love my dub, soft lighting and smooth bass lines. I figure once I’ve failed multiple times to escape the island, at least I can put on some Steel Pulse, build a fire, figure out some Coconut Moonshine and make the best of what I’ve got. A dolphin, obviously! I could ride him or her to the mainland for a beer. Failing that, an incredibly well trained team of seagulls. What animal or pet would you take?

Name one possession you would take and one to leave behind for a loved one.

I would take my box of tools. I’m a creative thinker and on a desert island my mind would be buzzing

with ideas for structures, contraptions and old school gadgetry. Nothing would frustrate me more than not being able to put a theory into practice. I would leave behind with my girlfriend Jo the keys to my two bikes - a Ducati 748 and Ducati Monster 900 Café Racer. I think it would make her feel more secure to know I was definitely coming back. A surfboard. I’m the kind of person who just can’t sit still – no good in cinemas, on flights or at weddings. Although taught by my Gran, I’m not much of a surfer and so I could while away the hours entertaining myself by mastering the sport but I’d accept a Rubik’s Cube. What would be your luxury item?

What would be your last supper before departing for your desert island?

Bangers & Mash. To be specific, pork & apple sausages, applewood smoked cheddar mash and onion gravy, with honey Dijon mustard on the side. I’ve spent a lot of years living abroad and have come to crave this traditional English comfort during my time away.

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 57


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Merry Chrismtas & a Happy New Year

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Hair

The fastest blow-dry bar in the Cotswolds Laura Leigh will give you the perfect blow-dried hair in just half an hour!

Quick fix blow-dry bar – perfect for parties! Party season calls for fabulous hair and we think a salon blow-dry is worth every penny, especially if you’re eager to impress. Taking the stress out of styling, a salon blow-dries take less than 30 minutes to create and will cost £20 or less, so book yourself in now! Laura Leigh has launched a special Christmas Blow-dry for only £20, which is a must if you prefer to wear your hair down. Big and bouncy with a gentle wave, this hairstyle was designed for flaunting! The creative team at Laura Leigh can also offer a variety of fabulous up-styles for £25. The blow-dry bar is also available for private hire. The creative team of stylists can come out to you, at your chosen venue, for a call out fee of £100 plus £25 per person. Call Laura for more information on the services available 01242 530598.

BLOW-DRY BAR MENU The Laura Leigh team will recreate any look for you in just 30 minutes. Simply walk in and walk out with fashion forward, fabulous hair.

BLOW You are washed and dried in half an hour. If you have super thick or long hair, please allow extra time and an extra £10. BLOWDRY £20 HAIR UP £25

LEARN Our expert team will teach you how to self style and blow-dry your own hair. The lesson costs £66 or a Ghd/curls lesson for £65.

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Laura Leigh Hairdressing, Lower Ground Floor, 105 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW, Tel: 01242 530598; www.lauraleighhairdressing.co.uk

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 59


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Bicks of Montpellier Jewellers of distinction

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Mind, Body & Soul Discover for yourself remarkable products, fitness and treatments to leave you feeling energised and super-smooth over the festive period Caviar of Switzerland by Kloodos.com Tis the season to eat, drink and be merry! Not so merry for the skin! The ravages of cold winds, frost and the excesses of Christmas with increased sugar and alcohol, all wreak havoc on our complexion. Just at the time when we want to strut our stuff and look our best, it’s just not fair. How’s a girl to cope? Breakouts, high colour, puffiness, dehydration, sagging, loss of elasticity, dark eye circles and a sallow complexion are all commonplace. Thanks goodness for major advances in skincare formulations with ingredients that will quickly become your new BFF long into the New Year. We need products that offer the perfect antidote to Christmas with fast acting results that force errant skin into submission. When a product gets amazing results, it becomes addictive and we don’t want you to miss out on any impromptu invitation. Who knew red wine could be so good for us? Scientists at Harvard Medical School have studied, resveratrol (an enzyme found in the skin of Red grapes so also found in red wine). The great news is; it’s clinically proven to reverse ageing. The downside? You need to drink copious amounts of red wine to get tangible results. Impossible right? Caviar of Switzerland, the product of Switzerland’s leading Skincare laboratory, specialists in skin ageing have perfected the solution: They have successfully concentrated high doses of resveratrol into every uber-luxuriously packaged item in their capsule range of 3 targeted, multi-functional age busting, super heroes, developed to wage war on ageing: Every application of all 3 highperformers delivers the equivalent of 400 glasses of wine! All the good news, none of the bad, delivered exactly where you need it most, where results are seen well before you reach the end of the jar. In keeping with the Swiss preoccupation 62 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

Below: 24 hour regenerating cream provides daily skin conditioning A.M and P.M. and glides effortlessly onto the skin, where it helps to correct colour, wrinkle depth, firmness and elasticity, hydrate and tone. R.R.P £115

Left: For the delicate eye area there’s the super-light whipped, Intensive eye cream to help banish dark circles and puffiness and let the eyes sparkle. R.R.P £105

with luxury and precision, the antiageing gurus at Caviar of Switzerland added lashing of additional major antiaging warrior ingredients to their core complex, found in all 3 products. This is a power-packed potent trio that brightens, lifts, firms, tones, clears and anti-ages. Who wouldn’t want that in their sack? Save £80 on the trio at www.Kloodos.com Le Grande Classique Facial at Tonic by Sandra Paul One of the pampering luxuries you must try in your life at least once is the “Le Grande Classique” facial from Yon Ka. Yon Ka is a family-run Parisian brand, producing skin care products based on plant extracts and essential oils. I experienced ‘Le Grande Classique’ at ‘Tonic’ situated in Great Norwood Street in the Suffolk’s in Cheltenham. It is the only spa and beauty salon in the

Right: Cellular repair serum penetrates deeper into the tissues to oxygenate, help plump, revive, revitalise reenergise, protect and prefect. R.R.P. £110

Cotswold’s with a licence to use the products and the technique and Kerry, who runs the salon, is an enthusiastic proponent of plant-based skin care. Sensory extracts of thyme, lavender, geranium, rosemary and cypress are included in all Yon Ka products and we begin with a hot flannel placed over my eyes and forehead. Kerry’s hands, bathed in essential oils, hover an inch above my face so as I inhale, a deeply relaxing scent aimed at taking away the stresses of my day, permeate my senses gently and I start to fully immerse myself in the treatment. Kerry then begins with a double cleanse. First she used ‘Lait Nettoyant’, a cleansing milk suitable for all skin types before launching the Pulveriser on me! Yon Ka call this the ‘lucas’ – it is a pulveriser that applies a toning emulsion concentrate in a very light, warm spray which is then massaged into the skin. Once my skin felt scrubbed clean and naked, Kerry used Gommage 303 on my face – a light, gummy-style product


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Health Yoga is not an elite club; one Gloucestershire girl has been training in New York with the woman voted, world’s coolest yoga instructor Tara Stiles is a rebel; not only does she allow people to move where it feels good to move during classes, there is also no Sanskrit commands, no chanting and it’s all to one of her many Spotify playlists. Tara, creator of “Strala” Yoga is a selfconfessed yoga rebel and people the world-over, love her for it. She’s not about the pose but about the person and her mantra has always been “who made the rules anyway?” It was only a matter of time before another rule-hater and believer that yoga is for EVERYONE flew to the City that never sleeps, for 200 hours of training with the woman herself. Strala stands for the movement that ignites freedom. Simply put it allows you to listen to your body and create ease. It’s an incredibly, intuitive flow-style yoga, all to uplifting beats which can range with anything from Snoop Dogg to Van Morrison.

that gently exfoliates the skin. This nonabrasive, botanical scrub gently removed my dead cells and smells of refreshing citrus essential oils. After massaging it into the skin, it is buffed off after a few minutes. At this point I feel as though I have lost a few layers of old skin but the process doesn’t stop there. A moisturising cream called “Pamplemousse” (a regenerating moisturiser with grapefruit), combined with the Yon Ka serum is applied to my

It’s about respecting your body enough to move exactly where it feels good. No more having to believe you have to suffer in a painful pose creating stress in your mind & body. All you have to do is create space within, by

face, the alpha contour and eye and lip area. Kerry applied another cleansing treatment to my face to blast away the years. Masque 103, which cleanses blocked pores and balances the skin and is a detoxifying mask, which has three kinds of clay. It purifies the skin, tightening pores and brightening the complexion. Finally, a base moisturiser was

breathing in fully and then exhaling softly, guiding your body into the movements. Does it feel good to stay in a posture? Good, stay there. Does it feel right to move out of a pose and do something that feels good for your body? Great you do that. Does every movement have to be performed identically on both sides? Absolutely not. After 200 hours training in NYC, Sarah has returned to the Cotswolds where she’ll be setting up classes and creating a Strala launch class in a venue to be confirmed. A regular weekly class will then commence in January 2015. If you sign up on her launch page www.thesarahjanegrifffiths.com she can keep you posted with dates. This is for men too, who Sarah believes also deserve to move, relax and enjoy a more restorative form of fitness.

then applied. Kerry used Creme 93, which is a balancing moisturiser for combination skin. Smooth and fast absorbing it is rich with the aroma of ylang-ylang and lime. After 90 minutes of blissful pampering I was woken up with the scent of Phyto 152 - a rosemary infused body moisturiser, lifefirming and energising. Tonic is a fairly new spa and beauty salon in Cheltenham and Kerry ensures that whatever treatment you have, it will be a relaxing, aromatic experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and cleansed. My skin looked plumped up and revitalised and given the appalling weather we have been experiencing, it could not have come at a better time. TONIC 10 Great Norwood Street Cheltenham GL50 2AN Tel: 01242 260425 www.tonic-cheltenham.com

Please contact Cotswold Style Editor, Emma Logan if you would like your products or treatments to be included in Mind, Body & Soul at: editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 63


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Beautifully hand crafted jewellery created by us... just for you!

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WRAP UP AND DRESS UP IN STYLE THIS WINTER WITH THE REGENT ARCADE, CHELTENHAM

QUINTESSENTIAL SHOPPING BHS / DAVID CHRISTOPHER / SHOON / MODA IN PELLE / THE PERFUME SHOP / ENEKES AND MANY MORE


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Fashion

Grace&Glamour Christmas Sparkle and Shine Tis the season to sparkle, shine and celebrate, but how will you style yours? Whatever your plans this December, be sure to add a little something special in the spirit of the festive season. Starting with a few of my selections… o here it is, the most magical time of year. Or so they say. Well I’m definitely a firm believer in the spirit and celebrations that December brings us and tend to dress to follow suit. When the occasion calls for it, it would simply be rude not to. What could be better than starting the season off with a classic LBD? Perhaps a little modern twist on our favourite LBD full of texture, tailoring and sass! French French Connection Connection always get it right when it comes to the party season but this one is just a little different. It’s cute, it’s sexy and it’s sophisticated - three elements to suit any woman! Keeping it strapless but with a little more pow, Reiss Reiss have pulled out all the stops with their Lolly metallic dress. Think simple styling, perhaps in matching metallics or a contrasting sharp block colour to complete your look. For something a little more feminine but with equal amount of style, Karen Millen has us covered. Slightly more practical, and yes I did say practical in

S

relation to party wear, with it’s longer sleeves and mesh overlay, KM certainly thought about how this baby would be worn. Styled with sequins and embroidered like no other, you’ll be sure to shine this season. If you’re not feeling in the mood for a LBD or even a dress for your celebrations, why not opt for a LBJ – that’ll be a Little Black Jumpsuit of course. With its Tuxedo feel, sharp tailoring and cheeky peplum, Warehouse has every girl covered with this option for December. With pretty much no styling required, pick up your favourite shoes and a clutch and you’re good to go. When in need of a little something special, a little something that makes a statement and says it all for you, then head right to French Warehouse Connection. Their Moonbeamer mini dress couldn’t be more perfect. Last year, I featured another sequin number from our friends over at FC but in the shape of a jumpsuit. Not only did I own it, I wore it to death. This year, I’ll be doing the same with this little beauty. And for the finishing touches? You’ll

Karen Millen

French Connection

want a whole lot of glamour for this December’s party season. Reiss has it right again with their Ombre overcoat. With a vintage air and an all round luxury, this shearling coat is sure to sell out fast. We all Reiss know it will add the final finesse to all of the above and can be worn on weekends with jeans. What’s not to love?! Whatever you go for this season, dress it with shine and a smile and you’ll be sure to enjoy your celebrations, wherever you are!

Grace @graceoliviap www.dorothyandolive.com

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Good things come in Bijou packages... With over twenty years’ experience in the fine jewellery business, Julia Gotrel is proud to be involved in BIJOU & Co. The company offers a professional and relaxed approach to designing jewellery, with a design service that enables you to be part of the design process, using three-dimensional images and the finest quality diamonds, precious and semi-precious gemstones.

Suppliers of the finest designer jewellery and gifts in Chipping Campden and The Cotswolds.

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Beauty

Sparkle this Christmas... Time to dust of those dancing shoes and get ready to impress this festive season. Amy Hickey chooses her favourite products to help you along the way...

Gorgeous gift sets to instantly make you dazzle...

> The gift for a beautiful complexion... This skin brightening set works wonders on over tired winter skin. Great to do before a special occasion. £35. boots.com

Luscious LIPS Festive colourful lips or clear plump lips brighten up any room; here are my top products for the perfect pout... Get lashed, Great lashes can enhance any eyeshape from fine to full this is an instant way to make your eyes bigger, brighter and party ready! I love Eylure lashes...

Super Moisturiser

>

>

This 5-piece Nars lip set is a perfect a addition to your make up collection. Each stick is Enriched with vitamins is, long wearing and has a satin finish for party perfect lips.

This refreshing and energising set is a great gift for all skin types, with great results these products will be a must in every man’s daily routine. Check out monushop.com

Yon Ka Hydra Number 1 Serum - Long Lasting Hydration Booster. £57

Give someone a perfect mistletoe moment this Christmas, with this delightful limited edition. The dinky tub of Kiss Mix will add a protective, moisturised sheen to cold winter lips, or a glossy shine to lipstick…

This serum works at the base layer of the skin and is packed full of powerful plant extracts and hyaluronic acid to activate the hydration power of your skin. The creamy and refreshing gel is the perfect emergency remedy for those that have very dehydrated skin. Use under Hydra Number One cream or Fluide for best results. Your skin will feel fuller, calmer and ready to face the winter elements.

Yon Ka Hydra Number 1 Creme – Hydrating, repairing moisturiser £49. This cream is a comforting cocoon for dehydrated, dry or sensitive skin. Its long-lasting hydration power, is complemented by its rich repairing, soothing and anti-aging ingredients which protect skin against environmental factors. A perfect partner to Hydra Number One Serum. All available from Tonic 10 Great Norwood Street, Cheltenham, GL50 2AN 01242 260425 Mail order service available. T: 07733 237767 E: amyhickey.com@gmail.com Twitter: @amy_hickey Facebook.com/amyhickeycom

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www.walterbull.co.uk 10 Dyer St, Cirencester GL7 2PF | 01285 653875


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Fashion

BUSINESS Q&A

Walter Bull & Son Emma Logan speaks to Robert Gegg, Managing Director of Walter Bull & Son, a traditional, family owned antique and modern jewellery business based in Cirencester How long has the business been operating for and is it still family owned? The original company was founded in 1815 in London. My great-grandfather, Walter Bull renamed the business in the late 1800’s and it was run as a Pawn Brokers before being passed on to my grandfather and his brothers who by then all had their own shops. The business has been operating in Cirencester’s Market Place for over 50 years and is still owned by the family and run by the founder's great grandson.

What do you specialise in? We now specialise in modern and antique jewellery in both gold and silver. We still stock silver items including a good selection of antiques from Georgian and Victorian times. While nowadays a lot of jewellery is made abroad, we personally still deal with smaller manufacturers in this country many of whom themselves are third or fourth generation.

What is the popularity of buying antique jewellery as opposed to modern? There has been a resurgence of interest lately in older pieces of jewellery; I think there is a great appreciation of its quality, manufacture and style. With ever increasing prices of gold and good quality diamonds and coloured stones, some older pieces are comparatively inexpensive and of course many are unique in a jewellery market which has become more brand led and uniform.

Do you make jewellery on commission? We still offer a bespoke service, making special pieces of jewellery to customers’ requirements. The upsurge of computer design has made the design easier and quicker, although I confess that our makers prefer hand drawn illustrations. We specialise in supplying seal engraved signet rings and cufflinks, still traditional 21st birthday gifts. We are often asked to make trophies for various sporting clubs and societies and over the years have produced an array of cups, silver animal figures and engraved items.

Do you offer a repair service? We have an increasingly important repair and refurbishment service. On the jewellery side, ring sizing is very popular along with repairs to necklets and pearls. We source matching stones to replace lost ones and sometimes completely remount a family ring or brooch. In addition we have a very skilled silver repairer who can refurbish old or broken pieces to their former glory. Walter Bull & Son 10 Dyer Street Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 2PF Tel: 01285 653875 Email: info@walterbull.co.uk www.walterbull.co.uk

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at Cowley Manor

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Style Event

The Hambledon Shop at Cowley Manor The Hambledon Shop at Cowley Man or hosted a special evening with J Bran d and Beck Sondergaard giving expert den im and accessories advice to guests. The Hambledon has a constant-changing selection of beautiful clothing and gifts . Photography by Angus Bethune

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DECADENCE

Cotswold Style’s Fashion Editor Yvette Brentnall, takes us through a decadent era of fashion, at Lily Gins this Christmas Photography: Sassy of Assassynation www.assassynation.co.uk. Assistant Fashion Stylist: Harriet Beaton


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Fashion

I wanted to achieve for this December issue was one of sheer decadence, beauty and sexuality. Showing the true femininity of the female form, I found the perfect venue, Lily Gins in Cheltenham, to create a bordello, type feel. An array of tumbling flowers, fruit and period props were all sourced locally in The Suffolks and with Christmas upon us, it really lent to that festive feel. The models’ hair was outstanding, with stylish designs created by the talented Joanna Herve and her team at Vallenders Salon, together with perfected complexions from the makeup artists at Chanel in House of Fraser. I was fortunate to work with an outstanding photographer Sassy and on sitting one evening over a glass or two of wine, our creativity flowed as Sassy told me of Jo from the Couture Company, a Birmingham based dress designer, designing couture evening and bridal wear. Her pieces really captured the look I wanted along with the beautiful, red lace dress from local shop Bodega, a shop I personally love popping into as it's well priced and under the skilled buying eye of Sarah Jane Worboys - well worth a visit. It was a very exciting, dramatic and creative shoot displayed to perfection by Models Lauren, Lisa, Alicia and Aidan all of whom are truly exquisite and worked tirelessly. Many thanks to my wonderful assistant Harriet Beaton, as without her many things would not have been possible, to photographer Sassy and all the team including Nick Brentnall, for sourcing the fruit!

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Fashion

CREDITS Fashion Editor: Yvette Brentnall Email: yvetteb@mif-filters.com Assistant Fashion Stylist: Harriet Beaton Email: haz_812@hotmail.co.uk Photographer: Sassy of Assassynation Website: www.assassynation.co.uk Email: sassy@assassynation.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/ assassynation Twitter: @assassynation Models: Lauren Exell, Lisa Flanagan, Alicia Adams and Aidan Guldberg Allen Dress Designer: Jo at the Couture Company: www.the-couture-company.co.uk Red Lace Dress: Bodega, Suffolk Parade, Cheltenham. www.facebook.com/ bodegawomenswear

Male Model’s Jacket: Horace Barton, Cheltenham www.horacebarton.co.uk Hair: Jo, Nicci and Leoni at Vallenders Salon, Cheltenham www.vallenders.com Make-up: Helen Markwick hestermarkwick@gmail.com Claire Alim - claire.Alim@hotmail.co.uk Jen Niblet - Jen-nib@hotmail.couk Flowers by Clint at Bloomers, Cheltenham www.bloomersofcheltenham.com Antique props: Gilchrist Antiques, 11 Great Norwood Street, Cheltenham Venue: Lily Gins, Regent Street, Cheltenham www.lilygins.co.uk Refreshments: La Scala, Regent Street, Cheltenham www.lascaladelicafe.co.uk


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The new face of RAGING BULL Following intense competition to find the Face of Raging Bull, the winner was Dominic Romer who won ÂŁ300 worth of Raging Bull Clothing and an overnight stay at the award winning Ellenborough Park complete with a meal for two in the Brasserie. Dominic also was also able to model his clothes at a private fashion shoot at Ellenborough Park pictured here and took part a few days later in a shoot alongside rugby legend Phil Vickery to launch the Raging Bull summer clothing range. Photography: Stefanie Calleja-Gera www.photographybystefanie.co.uk Photography Assistant: Davey Terrific

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Business

Designer shoes for every occassion Cotswold Style Editor, Emma Logan interviews leading British shoe designer, Lucy Choi Lucy please give us some background to you as a shoe designer? I began my career by spending 8 years working in the financial, business world. I then joined French Sole in 2002 to help them to build the brand and grow the company both in the UK and internationally. I eventually became the MD and oversaw every aspect of the business including the retail, website, wholesale business plus the marketing and PR. It prepared me well and I gained a sound knowledge of the mid price shoe market and its customers. I value what I have learnt in the corporate world and as a result I have been able to apply all my experience and knowledge of business and fashion to the launch of my own brand. Running my own company allows me to be involved in every aspect of the business from the creative side with the design to budgets and forecasting, recruitment, sales, marketing and PR. Except this time around investing my own money!

You are often introduced as being the ‘niece of Jimmy Choo’. How much influence (if any), has Jimmy had on your career and does he still mentor you now? I am close to my Uncle and learnt many lessons from watching him at work, especially his strong work ethic and values. I learnt early on that nothing in life comes easy and you must give 110%. To succeed you need a combination of knowledge, experience and financial know-how and you mustn’t be afraid to get your hands dirty! I learnt and absorbed a great deal from watching him work from an early age, in teens to my 20’s and I saw how extremely hard he worked and stayed true to his belief in himself and in his workmanship. He inspired me to aspire, to follow my dreams and to ensure I always deliver my promises. He still inspires me and is still a mentor. He came to see the unveiling of our debut at London Fashion Week at Somerset House this September which was a great honour.

One can see though you are a hugely talented designer in your own right with your own style. Where do you get your ideas from? A huge part of the process, which is very important to me, is talking to and interacting with my customers. I love listening to their feedback on my designs and always take their opinions and feedback into account when preparing for a new collection. I also take a lot of my inspiration from people watching whether in London or whilst travelling. My husband and I walk my two-year-old son Thomas around London most weekends, exploring new areas, restaurants and boutiques. I always research the forthcoming trends and colours but really do most of the design when I’m in Hong Kong when I can completely immerse myself in the creative process twice a year. How long is the average shoe making process from design to production? It takes, on average, a couple of months. Once I have created the design, I brief my factories in Hong Kong and Italy and regularly visit them to oversee the process and ensure all the shoes meet my high standards.

Lucy, I am 5ft 10” and love wearing heels but simply cannot wear the skyhigh heels that have been made by so many designers for this winter season. I do though, resolutely refuse to wear flats with evening wear. Do you cater for the taller end of the market as I certainly know many tall women who live in the Cotswolds and we all bemoan the same problem! The collection is based on the principal that we provide luxurious, affordable shoes without compromising on design, craftsmanship and comfort, for all women and for every occasion. For this very reason you mention, we specialise the mid heel which is rapidly becoming one of our best-selling heel

heights. The Ruby and Salisbury mid heels have proved extremely popular for AW14. Our elegant Goldstone style is ideal too for taller women, it is higher than a mid heel but with a slightly thicker heel. It is very comfortable and looks great as it not too high. Last year we also introduced larger shoe sizes for the taller lady and many of our shoes are now available in size 41 and a size 42.

What will be the trend for the spring / summer season? Our SS15 collection celebrates expert craftsmanship and design. I’ve named the shoes in the collection after leading Shakespearean characters, so customers can expect to see a spectacular display of colour, drama and plenty of romance. Our signature use of combining luxurious fabrics and colours in striking combinations offers a dramatic display of brights and new and innovative leathers, snakeskins, ginghams and glitters.

Do you run a couture service especially for brides or women wanting a bespoke pair of shoes? This is not something we currently offer but it is something we would like to offer in the future. www.lucychoilondon.com

COMPETITION WIN A BEAUTIFUL PAIR OF LUCY CHOI SHOES Q. WHO IS LUCY CHOI’S FAMOUS UNCLE?

Please send your answer with shoe size and contact details to: editor@stylemagazines.co.uk Competition closes 31/12/14 The prize is non transferable and no cash alternative

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Our range of jewellery and antiques is larger than you would imagine and if you are looking to source quality diamonds, precious stones, gold, silver or time pieces then look no further. We also have a large range of one off pieces and individually styled antique and vintage jewellery items.

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18ct Yellow and White Gold Cushion Shaped Ruby and Diamond Cluster ring. Ruby estimated as 1.97ct with approximately 0.33ct of Diamonds | £3,500.00

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18k White Gold Aquamarine, Octagonal-cut with scattered Brilliant-cut diamonds, approximately 0.50ct. | £3,950.00

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18ct White Gold 1.21ct Brilliant-cut Diamond ring. Diamond halo and shoulders have 0.36ct in total, SI Clarity and H colour. | £5,950.00

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18ct Yellow and White Gold Oval-cut Emerald and Diamond cluster earrings. Emerald weight 0.61ct in total and 0.44ct of Diamonds | £1,950.00

18k White Gold Amethyst ring with Brilliant-cut Diamond shoulders, 0.24ct. | £995.00

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Platinum 4.41ct Asher-cut Diamond ring with two Trilliant-cut Diamond shoulders. SI1 Clarity and L Colour. | P.O.A

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18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond 1.18ct ring with Pear-cut Diamond shoulders, 1ct. | £5,950.00

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18ct White Gold Fancy Diamond Drop earrings. Diamonds approximately 1.61ct | £3,950.00.

Platinum Art Deco ladies watch, approximately 4ct of diamonds in a mill-grain, manually wound movement | £2,950

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Style Event

There’s No Place Like... A Very Cowley Christmas A huge array of guests attended a festi ve extravaganza at the Cowley Christm as, hosted by Cowley Manor. An abundance of stalls were available for Christmas shopping including Harvey Nichols and leading shoe designer, Lucy Choi. Photography by McPherson-Steve

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Pets

NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS FOR YOU AND YOUR PETS Animal advice from our friends at Vets on the Park So as the New Year dawns we all think about making a resolution or two. Why not think of a couple for the pets in your lives too. Over indulgence during the festive season may have had an impact on your waistline and January is the bumper month for gym memberships. However it’s not just us that suffer from a bulging waistline after Christmas Almost 1 in 3 pets are over weight so what better time than now to get on down to your local vet clinic and have your pet’s body weight checked. Almost all clinics will do this for you free and then the staff can recommend a diet and exercise plan to shed those unwanted pounds. Modern veterinary diets are very effective and the results can be amazingly quick. Did you know that 80% of dogs and cats over the age of three have dental disease that needs treating now? Why not make it a New Year’s resolution to ask your veterinary clinic for a check up. Most veterinary clinics will offer free dental clinics and the nurses will be only 88 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

too happy to show you how to brush and manage dental problems in pets. Treatment may involve a general anaesthetic for a scale and polish and in severe cases tooth extraction might be needed. I know this sounds scary but a little time and money invested now can prevent huge problems later in life. High levels of infection in the mouth of your pet will circulate in the bloodstream causing damage to the heart liver kidney and respiratory system. In other words, bad teeth can lead to a sick animal. Once your pet has lovely shiny clean teeth we aim to work together to keep them that way. Here at Vets on the Park we can help you start your homecare programme with a series of consultations with the nurse who will help you through each step as slowly as necessary to avoid upsetting your pet. With plenty of positive reinforcement and a handful of liver treats we hope that your pet will come to actually enjoy having their teeth cleaned! Other ideas for your New Year resolution could be to make sure your

pet is up to date with their worming and vaccinations. A quick phone call or email to your practice should put your mind at rest. Remember too that by January 2016 it will be compulsory to have all dogs microchipped, so why not ask to get that done In January so you can sit back and relax when the law changes. Happy New Year to you and your pets. Let’s hope 2015 is a happy and healthy one for everyone. For more information or to make an appointment with one of our vets or nurses please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01242 517199. Vets on the Park Moorend Grove, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL53 0EX Tel: 01242 517199 www.vetsonthepark.co.uk


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Business Style In this month’s business style... Sherborne Solicitors, Westminster in the Cotswolds, Toot Sweet and Montpellier Asset Management


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Business

No need to be a CHRISTMAS KILL JOY It’s here again, the run up to Christmas and the Christmas party and for employment lawyers, that’s a time to be jolly because we all know someone, somewhere, is going to come unstuck. By Darren Sherborne of Sherborne Solicitors LLP have personally enjoyed the stories that come from the office party, although for the poor employer it can be no laughing matter. It’s interesting to see how we as a society have progressed in terms of our blunders. Pure carnal drunken lust will probably never go out of fashion but the old fashioned idea of photocopying one’s own bottom has been replaced by the more high tech idea of texting a photo of one’s own genitals to colleagues, ideally as they tuck into the plum pudding. Lawyers tend to publish quite a lot at this time of year telling you not to do things, and the list can get a little unrealistic. Risk assessments are a safe bet to be advised, although the practicality of this is limited. If you are a small company going to a pub or restaurant, you should be fairly safe assuming that the establishment is run by competent people. A risk assessment is really not always necessary. Another useless snippet thrown out by advisors is to “ban the use of illegal drugs”. You can’t argue with the sentiment, but if someone thinks it’s acceptable to be “chasing the dragon” at a work function, you could probably dismiss on the grounds of low IQ

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Darren Sherborne

anyway. Amongst all the other kill joy messages, this particular one seems unnecessary. On a similar note, banning Christmas decorations is another piece of dubious advice that seems to get recycled every year. In my view, forget it, line the halls with tinsel and let people feel a bit festive. I don’t think there is a tribunal in the land that would think this is discriminatory against other religions. However, there are some reoccurring themes that are worth underlining for the office party. I can almost guarantee that every year, at least one poor employer gets hauled over the coals because of the party. In my experience, these are key to avoiding

this without looking like a complete muppet. The usual problems are fuelled by alcohol and libido normally. Publish a reminder to staff before any party. Drink if you want to, but remember that this is a work party and behaviour should be appropriate. If you are putting money behind the bar, don’t put too much (like you need telling!) as it would be seen that you are encouraging over indulgence. Bad language or offensive behaviour will be dealt with through the disciplinary policy. Remind staff about your harassment policy. Remind staff that if it’s a work day the next day, they will still be expected to be on time. Offer to arrange transport home for those that need it, and remind people not to drink and drive. If the party is in your office, the chances are you are more than just a one man band and have a health and safety officer. If the party is on your own premises it’s probably worth asking the responsible person to check over any risks. Have a responsible person who will not drink on the night, and tell people who it is. Any problems on the night and tell people to approach the responsible person, including incidents of harassment. Lastly, and this is very important, remind managers and directors to avoid conversations about performance, promotion or pay rises at all costs. This often comes back to haunt companies. Have a great party, and a very happy Christmas. Darren Sherborne is a partner at Sherbornes Solicitors LLP and specialises in employment law. www.sherbornesllp.co.uk

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Shadowplay Design Launch Party Shadowplay has joined forces with a new Interior Design business offering com mercial and domestic advice - Shadowplay Design! The launch party, which was a huge success, displayed recent work as well as a photographic exhibition by Philip E James with goody boxes & branded beers to take away. For more information please call Kelly on 01242 253700 www.shadowplaydesign.co.uk Photography by Rob Wheatman

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WESTMINSTER IN THE COTSWOLDS With so many political issues affecting the Cotswolds and the General Election now only five months away, Emma Logan has asked the county’s MPs to inform Cotswold Style readers what they have been doing to represent their constituencies both locally and from Westminster.

Neil Carmichael

NEIL CARMICHAEL, MP FOR STROUD Stroud Valleys and the Vale is without doubt a spectacular area of incredible beauty, a place that my constituents and I want to protect – in my maiden speech to the House of Commons, I said what a pleasure it was to represent one of the most beautiful parts of the country. As such it is also an area that many developers see opportunities to build upon. Protection of our countryside is laid down in planning law and underpinned by what is known as a “Local Plan” set out by the Council as to what is acceptable and what is inappropriate to build here. Sadly the last plan terminated in 2011 and nearly 3 years later, Stroud District Council still do not have a new plan in force, providing developers with the opportunity to make inappropriate applications. The Government has given powers to local communities to reclaim power and control of the housing development in 94 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

their towns and parishes by creating their own “Neighbourhood Plans” and in the continuing absence of a Local Plan many have started to do this, which I fully support. There are also financial incentives for housing to be built on “brownfield” sites – derelict and vacant land in towns and villages in towns and villages which is more suitable for housing than greenfield sites. This has the support of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, who are campaigning to identify brownfield sites and local people can identify vacant land at the CPRE’s “WasteOfSpace” map on their website www.cpre.org.uk Many constituents contact me to express their concerns and frustration about planning development and decisions being made by the Council. As the Member of Parliament, I will always object to the Council about inappropriate applications but the formal decision making is made by the Council – so as I do, submit your representations to them as well. All of my work on planning, including details of my objections to several controversial schemes is available on my website at www.neilcarmichael.co.uk/ campaigns/planning and if you are concerned about a planning application, please contact my constituency office on 01453 751772 to make an appointment with me. www.neilcarmichael.co.uk

Laurence Robertson

LAURENCE ROBERTSON, MP FOR TEWKESBURY It’s difficult to believe that we are coming towards the end of 2014 and that Christmas is just around the corner. I should, therefore, like to wish all readers a Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year. I use the word “peaceful” deliberately, because 2014 has seen much conflict; Syria, Iraq, Ukraine and Africa and further threats abound from North Korea and Iran. Yet 100 years on from the start of the Great War, so many of us are striving to learn from the past and avoid conflict. I’ve recently visited Ypres, and taken part in a number of Remembrance services and the message of the need for peace is certainly


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Politics reinforced in my mind. As our own economy recovers and many more people find work, we should spend Christmas celebrating the birth of Jesus but we should, as ever, be mindful of those who are without and of those who are in war-torn areas of the world, who enjoy neither peace nor the adequate supplies which we take for granted. As we move into the New Year, we should resolve to do things about that. www.laurencerobertsonmp.com

Geoffrey Clifton-Brown

GEOFFREY CLIFTON-BROWN, MP FOR COTSWOLDS This has been another very busy month. I have been able to continue my campaign for the introduction of a MeningitisB vaccination, which is licenced and available. There is currently a negotiation between the Government and producer to find a cost effective price. I am keen that these negotiations do not take an unnecessary amount of time as each delay could lead to more children dying or being severely disabled from MeningitisB. I raised this issue directly with the Prime Minister during PMQs earlier in the month. I was delighted to welcome the Royal Agricultural University to Parliament this month to launch their new partnership with Morrisons. I have worked extensively with the RAU for many years, first as an alumnus and then as the local Member of Parliament and am incredibly proud of my connections with the University, which brings so much to Cirencester and the wider region. This month also saw me write to Brandon Lewis MP, the Planning Minister, regarding the current planning system across the whole constituency. I

have been concerned for a considerable amount of time, as have a large number of my constituents about the increasing number of planning applications there have been in the Cotswolds. Although I have no formal role in the planning system I have been trying as much as possible to ensure that any development in the Cotswolds is sustainable and sensitive to the landscape. www.geoffreycliftonbrown.co.uk

Richard Graham

RICHARD GRAHAM, MP FOR GLOUCESTER Last week I met Laura Martin & Orlagh Contanza; two teenage constituents who had recently won apprenticeships with Barclays Bank in Gloucester city centre,

for qualifications in customer services. Both were really excited about the opportunity and were already showing skills, helping customers use the bank’s new technology. This is important because four years ago you couldn’t be an apprentice in a bank, insurance company, law firm or many other sectors, including working for an MP but today you can. In fact there are 89 apprentices now in our NHS Hospitals Trust from none, four years ago. Laura & Orlagh are two of the 5,000 new apprentices in Gloucester since 2010 – every one of whom has contributed to halving our youth unemployment in that period. Little wonder that Britain has created more jobs over the last four years than the whole of the rest of the EU put together. It just goes to show that when we get our act together – Government providing training funds and businesses creating opportunities – then our young can go and show exactly what they’re capable of. Like Laura & Orlagh, rather than becoming yet another benefit statistic, they have a bright future. www.richardgraham.org Regrettably at the time of going to print, Cotswold Style had not heard back from the office of Martin Horwood, MP for Cheltenham.

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Barbara Jordan answers your family questions

Q

I married 12 years ago, when I was 36 years of age, and two years later we had twins.

Shortly after marriage my husband was required to relocate to Berlin for 14 months, and one year later had to move to Stockholm for a year.

On marriage I was the Finance Director of a medium sized company which has since gone on to do extremely well, and since I left has been floated on the stock market.

I, with my husband's clear knowledge, and after discussing things with him, gave up a highly remunerative and exciting career in order to follow my husband around the world and support him and look after our children. I did this notwithstanding the fact that I had been working my way up the career ladder for some 14 years prior to my marriage, and at the time that I left my job I think I was on the cusp of commanding a very high salary. However, we both felt that family and our own relationship was more important than money. To my enormous distress my husband has now left me, and even if I wished to go back to my previous career I could not do so, and in effect I have given up huge career opportunities only to be deserted by the man for whom I did this. Will this history affect my entitlement on divorce?

A

It is only in rare and exceptional cases where a wife is entitled to make a claim for compensation for abandoning her career,

and such a case will only arise where the Court can say without any speculation and with near certainty that a wife gave up a high earning career for the sake of her marriage and family.

In your case you were in remunerative and senior management employment for a lengthy period of time before marriage, and as you can prove this track record I think there is every reason to believe that you will be able to command compensation from your husband provided that the family resources are sufficient to allow this. The way the Court deals with this is by considering what Spousal Maintenance you might be entitled to, and then dealing with your monthly needs or possibly even your capital needs in as generous a way as possible as a form of compensating you for the loss of your career. It is highly unlikely, however, that any Court would give you a lump sum that could properly be labelled 'compensation' for the loss of your career, but a Court will do its best, I think, to give you as generous a level of settlement as they can in view of the history here. (HvH [2014] EWHC 760 (Fam)) For more information please contact Barbara Jordan on 01242 851619 or email BJordan@Jordans-Solicitors.com. If any reader would like to send in a question to Jordans Solicitors to be answered either privately or on this page, please email your question to questions@jordans-solicitors.com

No liability is accepted for the advice given in this article in respect of individual matters. For tailored advice contact Jordans Solicitors on 01242 851619.


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Business

All that glitters… Eric Barton unfolds the treasures of Toot Sweet Being paid for your hobby as a grown up is like taking a silken walk through Nirvana. It’s calming, full of promise and immensely rewarding. How many of us get to exercise that pleasure? It’s not a guilty pleasure, it’s Meredithe Stuart-Smith a reward for talent. At Toot Sweet in Cheltenham that hobby has paid off for Meredithe StuartSmith as her lifelong passion for creating bespoke gift cards and packaging has developed into more than a sizeable business. Like opening the tomb of the boy King Tutankhamen, the treasure trove that shines at the Toot Sweet shop in Cheltenham is golden and shimmers with glitter and promise. Back in Los Angeles in 1985 this engaging American introduced a set of Walking into the Meri Meri world is scissors and pens to a pot of glitter, like gliding through four floors of funcreating what was to become her first filled wizardry. It’s Hogwarts with glue hand made cards. With the speed of fast and glitter. There’s no waving of magic drying glue those handmade creations wands by one Master Potter, it’s just were soon to be gracing a host of upsheer raw talent. Every room in the market stores in the City of Angels. In building is busting at the seams with 1987 they presented their range of talented young people either drawing, products at the National Stationery Show snipping or applying glue and glitter to in New York where the response was some remarkable creations. It’s a world incredible, prompting orders from some where smiles dominate and gloom is heavyweight stores in the US. abandoned to shrivel on the shores of Meredithe’s come a long way. In fact in boredom. Meredithe says, “I love 1997 she came 5273 miles to working with talented people and we Cheltenham. have an amazing team of graphic These days Meredithe heads a studio of designers and illustrators here’’. twenty seven designers and art workers in Meredithe went on to comment,’’ I her Cheltenham studio from where Meri moved here in 1997 having met my Meri products are sold all over the world. British husband in New York. I love

Cheltenham and it’s great to be based here’’. Life is a little busier than it used to be. At Meri Meri studios they’re working on a myriad of new projects which includes; traditional cards and invitations, bake ware, gifts, party ware and much more. Meri Meri also currently supply Selfridges and Harrods and are already working on Christmas 2015. The World of handmade paper and card sculpting is seemingly on a boom. Meredithe further comments, “’I do keep abreast of the world economy. I dislike that it can affect business the way it does, so I do keep a weather eye on it’’. However happily for Meri Meri the 2013 sales figure were up by a stunning 45% which is no mean feat. Again no magic wand involved. Meredithe finally adds, The Cheltenham studio of Meri Meri will always be the hub of the business. In fact we have some very exciting retail plans for London in the New Year’. The Toot Sweet shop next to its big sister is just round the corner from the Wilson Gallery. It’s the jewel within a jewel. It’s a bijou showcase for all that is magical about Meri Meri products. A trip there is like stepping into a glitter-driven Pandora’s Box; full of promise and pleasure. So if you’re in the market for some beautifully handcrafted cards or gifts just take the Hogwarts Express to a magical land of creation that is Toot Sweet. For more information www.shopmerimeri.com

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 99


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Based in the heart of the Cotswolds, our legal team are here to help you, your family and your business face new opportunities and challenges with confidence.

Call us to discuss your legal requirements on

01285 650000 or visit

sml-law.co.uk


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Business

THE SNOWBALL EFFECT… …and the extraordinary power of compound interest Charlotte Tupper from Montpellier Asset Management explains more... Now that we’re fast approaching the festive season, you might be forgiven for thinking more about the kind of snowball pictured above but what I want to explain to you, is the miracle of compound interest. Albert Einstein himself was reported to have once said, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. He who understands it, earns it... he who doesn’t ... pays it.” The concept is very much like a snowball effect. Compound interest can be likened to each revolution of a snowball that gradually gets bigger and bigger as it picks up more and more snow. Compounding can produce a snowball effect with money. As each year passes and as you earn more of a return on your capital, you will then have more to invest and more of a potential return, as you will be reinvesting both capital and interest. It is the first £1,000 you invest that works the hardest for you. 1. The benefits of starting early. When you’re young you may not think you need to set up a pension. It’s human

nature to think it would be easier to worry about it five years from now, or even ten, but sadly we are all mistaken! No matter what your age, now is the time to save for retirement. The earlier you start investing, the more time you leave for the miracle of compound interest to take effect. Someone who invests £500 a month over a 20 year period will have 30%* more money than someone who invests £1000 a month over a 10 year period, even though they will have invested the same amount of money. 2. Small differences in return matter a lot! Over long periods of time, the difference between investing at say, 7% and 8% is enormous, so it is valuable to talk to a qualified person about the risk you are willing to take and the expected returns you would like to achieve.

3. Don't squander your inheritance on race days and holidays. Investing isn't everything and like most things in life it is best to strike a balance.

With investing it is the balance between enjoying yourself now and providing for your future. So if you don’t want to retire on the UK average pension pot of £40,000, you might want to talk to an adviser before it’s too late.

4. Over time, saving a regular amount can build up an astonishing sum of money. If you were to save £1,000 a month for 30 years and your investments grew at 6% a year how much do you think you would have? The answer is an astonishing £1,004,515.04! *Based on 6% interest per annum Happy Christmas from everyone at Montpellier Asset Management! If you would like to discuss this or any other matters to do with your finances, please pop in and see me, Charlotte Tupper opposite the town hall at No.7 Imperial Square. www:montpellierasset.com Tel: 01242 530999 Email: charlotte@montpellier.asset.com

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Dining in Style Discover delicious recipes from our regular food writers, plus reviews of The Cotswolds’ finest restaurants...

SPONSORED BY

Savills Cheltenham The Quadrangle | Cheltenham | GL50 1PZ

01242 548000 cheltenham@savills.com

savills.co.uk


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Food & Drink

Shelle Duffin creates

The Perfect Festive Treat (Even Father Christmas will be satisfied!) In the words of Maria, played by Julie Andrews in the musical ‘The Sound of Music’:

‘Raindrops on roses and whiskers on kittens Bright copper kettles and warm woollen mittens Brown paper packages tied up with strings These are a few of my favourite things’

Now even though I’m an animal lover, with a great deal of appreciation for cashmere and a real fondness of my grandmother’s wrapping, I also have a huge amount of adoration for all things edible. With the festive season currently in full swing, this is my favourite time of year for baking. Nothing beats presenting friends and family with an edible gift at Christmas and witnessing the look of appreciation on their faces as they take the first bite. When it comes to a sweet bake, I love a good brownie, who doesn’t? The gooey chocolaty centre brings a real feeling of sensational indulgence with each and every mouthful. I also love a good deep filled mince pie or two around this time of year, washed down with a glass of mulled wine – this for me is what Christmas cheer is all about. The smell of a fresh batch straight from the oven is enough to arouse my taste buds. However, one delicious treat after the other soon sends the conscience alarm bells ringing, so to disguise calories and make such an extravagance feel a little more ‘guilt free’, I’ve come up with a recipe combining the two together. I’ve decided to take heed from Maria by pushing back the taunting work deadlines, avoiding the long list of Christmas shopping and putting the Christmas card writing on hold until the last possible moment to make my new indulgent festive treat. Merry Christmas!

Mince Pie Brownies Makes 20 squares Ingredients • 300g dark chocolate, chopped • 250g unsalted butter • 5 free range eggs 400g caster sugar • 2tsp vanilla extract • 150g plain flour (or ground almonds for extra gooeyness) • 50g cocoa powder • ½tsp baking powder • 4tbsp mincemeat (Cook’s note ~ brandy soaked mincemeat provides a richer more luxurious flavour) Method • Preheat the oven to 180ºC • Grease a 20 x 30cm tin and line with greaseproof paper.

• Melt the butter and chocolate in a bowl over a saucepan of simmering water. Make sure the bottom of the bowl doesn’t come into contact with the water or the chocolate will curdle. Stir until smooth and place to one side to cool. • In a large bowl, mix the eggs, sugar and vanilla extract with an electric whisk (or put the whole lot into an electric mixer if you have one). Beat until the mixture is pale and fluffy. Fold in the chocolate and stir. • Sift in the flour, baking powder and cocoa powder and fold the mixture until smooth. • Add the mincemeat and give the mixture one final stir. • Spoon the mixture into the prepared tin and smooth the top. • Bake in the oven for 35-40 minutes until the outside is firm but the centre is still gooey. You can test this with a knife or skewer. • Once cooked, remove the brownie from the oven and allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before removing and chopping into squares. • Present in a tissue paper lined gift box or serve as a dessert with a dollop of brandy butter or a drizzle of brandy cream.

For more reviews and articles, check out my blog – myboiledeggsandsoldiers@blogspot.com; or follow me on Twitter - @Shelle_Duffin, Instagram – shelleduffin, Pinterest – shelleduffin.

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 105


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Merry Christmas! We wish everyone a lovely Christmas with friends and family. Don’t forget our Christmas lunch and dinner menus are running throughout December. From £30.00 per person it’s the perfect excuse for a delicious festive meal. There’s also racing at Cheltenham Racecourse on Friday 12th & Saturday 13th December. Why not join us for dinner afterwards? Or for a special treat, stay overnight with us. We look forward to seeing you very soon, and if we don’t see you before, Happy New Year 2015! Please book by calling 01242 807552 or email events@ellenboroughpark.com Ellenborough Park Southam Road Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL52 3NJ UK www.ellenboroughpark.com

Find us on:

106 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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Food & Drink

COOKING IN ‘STYLE’ at Ellenborough Park Patsy Holdsworth was the lucky winner of a Cotswold Style competition for a cooking experience with Ellenborough Park’s award winning Head Chef, David Kelman. Patsy tells us about the exhilarating time she had was thrilled when I found out I had won the competition. I love cooking and I never imagined that I would be lucky enough to have a one-toone lesson with a chef such as David Kelman. I had the most incredible day. David chose what we were going to cook. He sent a few suggestions and I said I would love to do either the Sea Bass or Duck because I love them both. He was kind enough to get both – beautiful, wild Sea Bass and the freshest ducks. He had also bought the most amazing selection of really interesting and unusual vegetables and herbs to choose from. I arrived at Ellenborough Park at noon and was completely spoilt from the moment I walked it. Ben made me a great cup of Jasmine tea and showed me to a room where I could change into my Chef ’s Whites. I then spent the whole day in David’s kitchen, being totally overwhelmed by his talent in showing me so many different elements to each of the dishes we created and by his generosity in sharing so many tips and tricks of the trade. He was such a good and patient teacher and let me do much of the preparation. I can’t tell you how much I learnt and

“I

I only hope I can remember everything! We pan fried the sea bass, on top of the most delicious sauce made from tiny berry tomatoes, emulsified with hot oil and infused with thyme and garlic. It was delicious and I’ve made it at home since. We also made a really healthy fish broth with the sea bass and lots of colourful fresh vegetables. The duck magically turned into duck breast with puréed Jerusalem artichokes and fondant potatoes. (These were very stylish and tasty but not for everyday as they are full of butter). We also made a duck leg hot pot with lots of pretty vegetables and a seriously good stock, with plenty of thyme and garlic of course. So much work goes into making all these dishes that I could go on all day and I am now totally in awe of David. Tasting all the different dishes was heavenly. They were equally divine in their different ways and I really couldn’t say which was my favourite. Many, many thanks to everyone involved. I just can’t tell you how much I enjoyed the day!” Cotswold Style would like to thank David Kelman and the team at Ellenborough Park for providing this special prize to our happy winner.

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 107


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Review

RESTAURANT REVIEW

GUPSHILL MANOR… A serene treat in gorgeous surroundings reviewed by Mark and Rachel Hopkins Originally built in 1438, the stunning Gupshill Manor languishes in the most tranquil of settings. It’s a calming place to both eat and relax. A spacious and comfortable bar area welcomes you into a warm, friendly place. It’s a nirvana of serenity. The bar is friendly and warm, with the locals making a real effort to make you feel right at home. None of this scary ‘slaughtered lamb’ business. They always have two or three guest ales with the wine cellar updated constantly offering a great range of wines; from a crisp, dry Pinot Grigio to a sparkling Fantinel Prosecco, the list is extensive with the wines available just right for any pocket. The outside seating area is comfortable with heaters for cold weather offering superb views across a wonderful, lush vista. Gupshill is available for all types of functions and has a private dining area too. The restaurant is elegant with nice touches of sophistication, with the menu highlighting a range of locallysourced produce. The versatility of being open all day and serving breakfast through to dinner means you eat at any time of the day. Now that’s

rare in itself. Menus prepared by Head Chef David Caton are extremely varied, well-balanced and cooked with care and passion. With three courses for £12.50 all day, it’s also great value… and make sure to look out for the ‘specials ‘. Vegetarians need not take fright either. The refried bean & chilli fritters with lime & coriander crème fraiche and a piquilo pepper coulis is a must, as well as the French onion soup, which was oozing quality due to the deep onion flavour so reminiscent of this great rustic soup. From the Grill the venison steak served with rosti potato, broccoli and green peppercorn and brandy sauce is historic. Desserts at the end of meal need to be both surprising and have the wow factor. The creamed vanilla rice pudding with spiced plum jam or the peanut butter cheesecake combined with chocolate ganache with added butterscotch sauce didn’t disappoint. Service was efficient without being obtrusive and the time between courses just right. www.gupshillmanor.com Tel: 01684 292278

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 109


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Christmas Day Lunch Enjoy a leisurely Christmas Day with a perfectly chilled glass of Champagne, a four course lunch followed by coffee and Christmas cake. £90 per person

New Year’s Eve Masquerade Ball Welcome 2015 in style this New Year with the mystery of a masquerade. A celebration to remember. £95 per person

KINGSHEAD-HOTEL.CO.UK 01285 700900 info@kingshead-hotel.co.uk 24 Market Place, Cirencester, GL7 2NR KingsHeadCiren

110 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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December Dining

Betwixt & Between

Sip a glass of Prosecco in the cosy glow of the lounge log fires, before being seated for dinner.

27th – 30th December

The festive menu is traditional yet imaginative and you will certainly be treated to deliciously fine Christmas fayre when dining at the Greenway. Festive lunch menu ~ Monday to Saturday

Escape and unwind from the hustle and bustle of Christmas with a relaxed getaway at The Greenway Hotel and Spa. Rates from £150.00 per room per night to include full English breakfast

£20.00 per person ~ two courses £26.00 per person ~ three courses including crackers and Prosecco Festive dinner and parties £37.50 per person ~ inc. crackers & Prosecco

New Year’s Eve Celebrations Glitz & Glamour Celebration ~ Wednesday 31st December Arrive and settle into your room whilst sipping on a welcome drink to get you in the mood for acelebration of glitz and glamour! A six course black tie gala dinner will then be served in the restaurant, followed by live music and dancing through until midnight when we welcome in the New Year with a glass of Champagne. (£125.00 for non resident dining) New Year’s Day ~ Wake to a full English breakfast then we will whisk you off for a glamorous day at Cheltenham Racecourse. Celebrate your winning streak with a Champagne reception and a four course dinner. Breakfast will be served the next morning before we wish you a fond farewell! Break includes entrance fee to the race course and transport there. Return not included. Please let us know if you would like us to make arrangements for you.

One night break from £265.00 per person

Online vouchers available to purchase for the perfect Christmas gift! Buy online at www.edenhotelcollection.com Cheltenham, GL51 4UG 01242 862352 thegreenwayhotelandspa.com info@thegreenway.co.uk @greenwayhotel

Two night break from £385.00 per person

Festive Spa Delights GOLD BODY RITUAL - 60MINS A shimmering gold body ritual including a nourishing full ‘Gold Body Scrub’ followed by a full body massage, using ‘Gold Massage Honey’ rich in caviar extract which will leave your skin renewed and replenished. £65.00 per person


The Edgemoor Inn

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Freehouse & Restaurant

DECEMBER MENU SERVED FROM NOVEMBER 29th TILL 24TH DECEMBER

Starters Roast vine tomato soup with sun dried tomato focaccia Carpaccio of beef fillet with wasabi cream Parmesan fritters with candied walnuts, cranberry & orange salad, honey dressing Smoked salmon mousse, cucumber, dill & shallot, toasted ciabatta

Main Courses Turkey escalope wrapped in smoked streak bacon, stuffed with sausage meat, cranberry & sage stuffing, roast potatoes & vegetables Fillet of sea bass with herb crumb, pistachio pesto, roast butternut squash, green bean & peccorino salad, new potatoes Medallions of beef fillet served with sautee potatoes, spinach & mushrooms, shallot gravy Slow roast duck leg with plum sauce, pan fried potatoes, roast carrots & kale Maple glazed loin of pork with parsnip & smoked bacon mash with crispy pancetta Mushroom, spinach & chestnut lasagne, salad & chips

Sweets Boozy christmas pudding & custard Spiced cinnamon pavlova, mulled wine pear, orange & cointreau cream Ferrero roche chocolate cheesecake, chocolate sauce Tiramisu semi freddo with tia maria ice cream

THREE COURSE MENU @ 25.00 2 COURSE MENU @ 19.50

Coffee & Mints

Edge, near Stroud, Gloucester GL6 6ND

01452 813 576 www.edgemoor-inn.com | edgemoorin@gmail.com


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Sporting Style This month in Sporting Style we hear from regulars Shane Duff, Luciano Kydd & Nigel Aplin

SPONSORED BY

Telephone: 01242 583772 20 Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QZ enquiries@tayalabalitomlin.com

www.tayabalitomlin.com


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000 Shane Duff December 14:Layout 1

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Sport

LIFE AFTER FOOTBALL Footballers are often lambasted for being un-moralistic mortals, only interested in money. This month Shane Duff looks at how one injured footballer defied this reputation by becoming a school teacher

SOCCER

SCHOOL

www.shaneduffsoccer.co.uk Twitter: @shaneduffsoccer Facebook.com/shaneduffsoccer

I recently read that a former Cheltenham footballer has just finished his first year as a teacher after retiring in July 2012. Not a bad turn around in such a short space of time was my first thought. I had to retire through injury myself and am now teaching, so I became intrigued and read on. Ben had suffered with knee problems in his career and finally had enough when he broke down in a pre-season friendly, playing for Tranmere Rovers. He made his decision immediately and chose to call an end to his career and give up the two years guaranteed income for a change of career path. A huge decision I thought. Footballers with a two contract just don’t do that. By retiring he was going to give up two years’ salary and that must be hard for anyone to do. After reading his story it really shows him to be a ‘top bloke’ with morals all in the right place. He puts things in perspective and I am impressed with how he has handled himself. Footballers outside of the Premier League are not so privileged and don’t have the financial securities, so a two year contract provides exactly that – security. Players know that whether they do the business or not, they have a guaranteed income for 104 more weeks. How many people that you know

would make this same decision in similar circumstances? Most would retrain whilst still being paid by the football club, so the transition from one job to another would be smoother and the time without income would be kept to a minimum. Ben didn’t do this. He recognised that footballers had skills sets and strengths that are transferable to other industries and this was a lot more than people tend to give footballers credit for. Determination, leadership skills, ability to work in a team, performance under pressure, focus and adaptability were just a few mentioned and he is right. He also makes reference to the fact that his former teammates have become estranged and very distant, a story that is told by many retired footballers. He tells a good story and I would like to sit in a room with him and share emotions about the transition from life in football to life after football. Lots of people in any industry could learn from Ben’s outlook. Twitter: @duffo16

Gloucestershire’s

solar powered used car dealership

completely motoring COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 115


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Combo Ticket (includes Santa’s Grotto & Festive Train Ride) Visit Santa in his magical Grotto and then take a train ride to search for the missing presents along the way.


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Fitness

Get your Diet on Track Fitness Expert Luciano Kydd, discusses the importance of being consistent in a nutritional plan if you desire results A GOOD nutritional plan is written on an individual basis to prevent deficiency, improvement in calorie control, nutrient timing, along with good food selection to

boost health and performance so the individual can improve their overall body composition and health. Now let’s take a look at two sample meal plans; one that I

might prescribe to a client compared to a typical diet of a gym goer who is lacking consistency in their approach or who is following misinformed ‘diets’.

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source (water or tea with all meals)

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

1x cheat meal of individual choice

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Supplements

Supplements

Supplements

Supplements

Supplements

Supplements

Supplements

MONDAY

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Breakfast

Cereal with skimmed milk

Slice of toast Cup of coffee

Banana Latte Croissant

n/a

Full English

In bed/hangover

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

Lunch

No lunch due to too much work

n/a

Crisp Bottle of coke Sandwich

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Buffet lunch at work

Pub lunch

Fish and chips at the local

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Dinner

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

3 glasses of red wine. Rice/chicken/ Ice cream

Green veg Healthy fats Protein source

Pizza 4 beers/4 glasses of wine

Takeaway meal

Late night kebab with chips

Sunday roast with family

No supplement

Fish oil

n/a

Cheap multivitamin

n/a

n/a

Bin supplements

Cup of coffee rush to work

Right away you can see the vast difference in the eating plans. With plan A, I can guarantee physiological and probably psychological results. This is due to an individual being consistent with their eating plan that’s balanced with nutrient dense foods and contains portions of healthy fats, unprocessed carbohydrates and an adequate supply of protein, which in turn will help regulate hormones amongst other things, leading to a better overall body composition. A cheat meal on the Saturday gives the individual a mental and emotional break from the daily routine of eating correctly. Supplements are covered in pre and post

workout nutrition to cover deficiencies, as we know due to environmental pollutions in the soil, we cannot get all our vitamins and minerals from the plants and animals we eat. As you can see with Plan B, there is hardly any consistency. This type of eating will eventually lead to muscle breakdown, which is never a good idea whether your goal is fat-loss or building lean muscle mass. Under eating due to missing meals and overeating on the next meal, creates deficiencies in many areas and more chances of lifestyle related diseases. A good training plan, a sound diet based on individuals needs and good sleeping practices

PLAN B

TUESDAY

PLAN A

MONDAY

and lifestyle changes will yield greater chances of success, than a hap-hazard plan with no discipline whatsoever. However if you have a specific body goal, then a well-planned and CONSISTENT nutrition plan is needed to match this goal. Luciano Kydd is a personal trainer based in Cheltenham. Email: kyddfitness@hotmail.co.uk – (for 1-2-1 personal training). T: 07737 347854. W: www.kyddfitness.co.uk Facebook: www.facebook.com/pages/ Kydd-Fitness/278899372152099

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 117


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Sport

FESTIVE TIPS AT CHELTENHAM RACES Betlive Radio’s expert racing pundit Nigel Aplin, looks at the Form for December t’s always just after the Colonel’s Christmas Shoot that the Cheltenham International Meeting occurs, this year Friday December 12 and Saturday 13 December. The highlight of the meeting is The December Gold Cup, an extremely lucrative handicap for punters as 25 of the last 28 winners could be found in the first four in the betting. However, given that stat, just one favourite has won since 1996 so it is no shock to note that 17 of the last 20 winners were placed at worst on their most recent outing, as these stats usually go hand in hand. Like so many of Cheltenham’s leading handicap chases, previous win-or-placed form at the course has been an important factor. Only the Irish-trained Go Roger Go has bucked this trend since 1992, so unquestionably look to a horse that has proven it can handle Cheltenham’s undulations. A return to Cheltenham for the December Gold Cup is the most likely plan for Caid Du Berlais following

I

his thrilling win in The Paddy Power Gold Cup in November. Only a fiveyear-old, he improved his already respectable record at Prestbury Park by winning the prestigious race from last year’s hero Johns Spirit.

“ONLY A FIVE-YEAR-OLD, HE IMPROVED HIS ALREADY RESPECTABLE RECORD AT PRESTBURY PARK BY WINNING THE PRESTIGIOUS RACE FROM LAST YEAR'S HERO JOHNS SPIRIT.” Five of the last nine winners posted a top-five finish in the Paddy Power Gold Cup. Unsurprisingly, this valuable handicap attracts many of the principals that contested the Paddy Power, being run over the same track, over a trip only half a furlong longer in distance. Remember old favourites Pegwell Bay, Senor El Betrutti and Exotic Dance who have completed the double in the same season.

All the signs are good for Caid Du Berlais, especially as younger horses have dominated of late. In fact, there has been no winner aged ten or more since 1974 and only two have made the frame in the last 20 years so they can confidently be overlooked. The other feature race of the two days is International Hurdle over 2m1f, a very important trial for the Champion Hurdle at the Cheltenham Festival in March. It was won by The New One last year so expect a class horse to perform. New Year’s Day at Cheltenham, Thursday January 1, is very much a family day; Araminta does wonders with her tailgate brunch, a day to blow out the hangovers and greet the rush of new air that is 2015. Festive Greetings to one and all. Nigel Aplin, formally Head of Broadcast for William Hill, is founder of www.betliveradio.com which features a daily digest of betting banter.

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 119


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Blighty Bound The World Premiere of the Great War Commemoration play, Blighty Bound took place at The Cotswold Theatre, Stro ud by the Cotswold Players, telling the stor y of a small Gloucestershire community facin g the upheaval of the First World War. Don ations were raised to support the AlabarĂŠ Gloucestershire Homes for Veterans . www.alabare.co.uk/home/gloucesters hirehome-for-veterans2/veterans Photography by Rob Wheatman

120 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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Claire in the County

Local

AND THEY’RE OFF…. Claire Thayers prowls Cheltenham Racecourse in search of the elusive red trouser brigade

ed trousers…on men – you either hate them…or love them but where better to check out the current trend than Cheltenham races! The reason they had come to mind was a posting on Facebook recently by a trendy, twenty something, city type, who was obviously keen to spread the word that wearing red IS a red hot fashion tip. I also Googled ‘red trousers’ and found a very interesting blog – a little too explicit to put into this article, but worth a look and I guarantee the photos will make you smile! I attribute the popularity to Dominic from Gogglebox and Made in Chelsea, so are you man enough? Sitting by the paddock watching everyone, I was, I admit a little

R

disappointed; there was the occasional pink (or were they originally red, now just over-Persiled), a few expected burgundy (or maybe claret) cords on the older gent, with keepers tweed jacket or the obligatory blazer, as one would expect - but where were the youngsters in their scarlet red? I decided to move into the bars where many stay for the duration of the racing, never to see a horse and never to venture out due needing a bar to prop them up! I am very impressed by the new development on the far side of the paddock, especially with the ‘See You Then’ bar or as my friend said, having miss-heard me on her mobile, the ‘ski bum bar’! There was definitely a younger crowd in there and I am sure my friend was right, many of them would be as

“IF RED TROUSERS ARE GOOD ENOUGH FOR SANTA THIS CHRISTMAS, I AM SURE THEY ARE GOOD ENOUGH FOR YOU OR YOURS AND WILL BRING SOME FESTIVE CHEER TO EVERYONE.” happy on the slopes as they were racing but it seems that chinos, mustard cords and moleskins were still the preferred choice…. So, off to the Champagne Bar – no change… Took a walk down to the ‘tick tacky’ men … still few and far between… I was also surprised by the lack of feathers and fur which is a must have for the trendy, young, filly but it was the first meeting of the season and unreasonably warm! For those of you who follow the fashion as much as the horses, keep a tally of red trousers for me and let’s see if we have more and more as the season progresses, worn by young and old alike. Let’s be honest with dark nights, wintery days, seeing the occasional bright flash of red brightens everyone’s day and I am sure there will be plenty of little ones desperate to view a glimpse of red on Christmas Eve! If red trousers are good enough for Santa this Christmas, I am sure they are good enough for you or yours and will bring some festive cheer to everyone. I look forward to seeing you on the rails by the finishing post, enjoying a festive snifter and obviously wearing your crushed, raspberry trews on New Year’s Day. Have a wonderful Christmas Cotswoldians! Claire Thayers & Associates, Corporate Social Responsibility, South West www.clairethayers.co.uk

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 121


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Style Event

Beards of Montpellier hosted the launch of the S-Class Coupé Mercedes-Benz of Cheltenham & Glou cester in conjunction with Beards Jeweller s invited guests for drinks and canapés to cele brate the launch of the fabulous S-Class Cou pé. Guests also had the opportunity to view the beautiful jewellery in Beards showroom . Photography by Rob Wheatman

122 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE


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AWoman’sWork

Surtees SPEAKS... How not to get a mince pie thrown at your head and why not to trust gifts from Morocco…. They say it takes all sorts and never more so than when you quiz people on their Christmas shopping habits. Do you enjoy it, or do you get so consumed with having “the perfect Christmas” you lose all sense of reality on this one day? I sincerely hope you don’t fall into any of these categories.... THE STYLISTA: Christmas planning starts back in May for this gal. Her family holiday in Morocco was spent frantically combing the souks for the perfect Christmas trinket. Greedily flicking through old December editions of Homes and Garden (it’s her Christmas Porn), she’s captivated by images of angelic children in velvet coats, skipping through tastefully decorated hallways. She aches to be that enigmatic mum in the photos, bucks fizz in hand, calm in her perfect white house. Sadly, it’s not to be. Her children insist on wearing their Onesies from Primark all day and her husband demands she extinguishes all the Moroccan tealights – their odour is less frankincense, more camel dung. THE “I’M A BUSIER THAN YOU” MUM: Christmas is an exceptionally busy time for mums, which is why schools delight in providing the challenge of 50% more activities crammed into one week, at the busiest time of year. Carol concerts, nativity plays, revision pep talks, festive, fancy dress discos – time consuming. Most of us roll with the programme, muddle through and even enjoy it (eventually). Not the BTY Mum. Like Facebook, she constantly updates you on all the events she has to attend – rugby matches, music lessons and performances that need her presence (or at least her taxi skills). She yaks away, listing her duties, oblivious that you have

exactly the same tasks. As her whining reaches new levels you eventually crack at the Parents’ Christmas Disco and stuff a festive mince pie in her gob to shut her up. THE NIGELLA MODEL: M&S, Waitrose and (heaven forbid, Iceland) glossy brochures hold no sway in this household. This Epicurean sees Christmas as the ultimate culinary challenge; she’s been reducing stock, pricking sloes and brining her handreared turkey for weeks and there’s more likelihood of her getting her own crack dealer than buying a frozen turkey. No, the Festive Feast is truly her piece de resistance. Unfortunately, her family are so sick of her obsession and constant sourcing of local ingredients, they commit the heinous sin of sneaking off

”UNFORTUNATELY, HER FAMILY ARE SO SICK OF HER OBSESSION AND CONSTANT SOURCING OF LOCAL INGREDIENTS, THEY COMMIT THE HEINOUS SIN OF SNEAKING OFF FOR A FORBIDDEN KFC ON CHRISTMAS EVE....” for a forbidden KFC on Christmas Eve – only to catch food poisoning from a bucket of the Colonel’s finest. They spend Christmas Day alternating sips of water with dashes to the bathroom, as their Mum cries over her perfectly moist breast (of turkey). HEADLINE TIPS FOR HAPPY SHOPPING: • Don’t start too early – try not to think of it as just another chore to be crossed off your list. • Think of the recipient – not everyone will be delighted with a cream M&S jumper (in fact, name one) • Use online shopping judiciously – don’t forget what inspirational places shops & markets can be in the holiday season. • Don’t get sucked into buying tat because you’re in a panic; instead take yourself off for a glass of bubbly (yes, even if you’re alone – decadent and so much nicer than a latte), regroup and then head back out. You’ll make better decisions. Above all, remember to enjoy your day and your family. Merry Christmas everyone!

I would love to hear from you! Please write to me, Amanda Toner (maiden name Surtees!) via editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2014 127


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Views

Unbelievable!! Columnist Sandra Paul is left hanging on the telephone air’s Fair’ as they say and I must update you on my ongoing spat with First Great Western and the appalling standard of passenger assistance I experienced at the hands of Cheltenham Spa train station, recently. You may remember that I was complaining about a decline in manners and cited my particular ‘unbelievable’ experience of ‘down town’ Cheltenham Spa. Well, they have finally written to apologise and to tell me I should not expect this experience when I travel with then again – which is tomorrow, with my son, who is scared stiff I am going to embarrass him again by confronting rude behavior in public! Watch this space. My in-box has been inundated with readers’ ‘unbelievable’ rants. Jane in Rudford emailed to have a moan about Anglia windows - a double glazing firm she chose, precisely because she thought a big brand, although more costly, would deliver better customer service. I can see you smiling. You know what happened next? New windows don’t open. Many phone calls and emails later, Jane resorted to writing to the CEO of Anglia, who replied telling her to use the proper channels to make a complaint. Unbelievable. Although Jane added an additional comment which I can’t print. Utility suppliers seem to make up the biggest number of frustrated readers complaints and almost unanimously, they begin their moans starting with the ‘automated response, for direction to the appropriate department’. Apparently, press 1 for new sales, press 2 for technical difficulties, press 3 for…. and by the time you have reached press 9, you have forgotten what press 1 stands for – drives you mad. So you begin again. When you think you have reached victory and pressed the correct button, temperatures rise when the automated recording starts a new reel of ‘press’ instructions. By now you have been on the telephone for fifteen minutes! For those readers lucky enough to get

F

through to the next stage i.e. a human being, here’s where the story of tears and helpless rage kicks in. The problem seems to be that we – readers – dare I say it – normal people – think that if we have a problem, we can explain it simply to someone and they will listen sympathetically and carefully and give you a sensible answer. Instead, the general response we receive is the opposite, ‘you have reached the wrong department and you have to start again and no, we can’t transfer you. Sorry.’ Unbelievable! I have now learnt to set an afternoon aside to make one of these phone calls. It is pointless thinking it will take minutes and should be possible during a lunch break. I know I will need a full battery in my phone, the kettle nearby for the endless

cups of tea I’ll be making, whiling away the time I am holding on as someone considers my query and I will need a huge amount of patience because nine times out of ten, the telephone call will end with me being told I have not supplied the right information and I’ve phoned the wrong department and I need to put it in writing anyway. Unbelievable! It is almost Christmas and I do expect my in-box to increase as the pressure mounts – I feel for you. Remember, a shared rant is a rant made LOUDER!!! Sandra Paul has been in the communications industry for over twenty years working for Prime Ministers, Presidents and CEOs. Sandra lives and works in Cheltenham. Contact her on sandra@lococomms.com

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This Month with Kate Justice

Can Kate Justice get it all organised on time?

like to think most people reading this will be in one of two main camps when it comes to Christmas shopping; you’ve done it all, or not even thought about it yet. I realise that particular analysis looks at things in extremes – but I am definitely a Christmas shopping extremist. My habits around this festival are so utterly extreme, they cannot fail to make every single person who has ever been slightly, or even enormously disorganised, feel so much better about their own. Even the advent of online shopping has done nothing at all to help my plight. In fact, it has actually hindered me – not only do I now have to buy and wrap gifts as normal but I also have to return all the inappropriate / ill fitting / not like it looked in the pictures / faulty / dumb gifts I’ve bought in a rush / moment of over-the-top generosity, after too many glasses of wine, whilst sitting on the internet. But I am so rubbish at returning things. This attitude may lead an outsider to suspect I have more money than sense: I so desperately despise having to (argh), repackage things and (UGH), go to the Post Office and send things back that I often simply keep them. I am

I

130 DECEMBER 2014 COTSWOLD STYLE

currently in possession of a year old, size too big Superdry belt that I bought for my brother, a ‘forest scene’ candle holder that was eventually deemed too extravagant for one of the teachers, a milk jug in the shape of a cow that was a stupid idea and two matching clothing items for both the kids that wouldn’t fit in the stockings and have since been outgrown.... and much more besides. The idea of eventually finding a recipient for these items is far more appealing than actually having to RETURN them. (Apologies in advance if you ever get one of the gifts listed above – obviously they weren’t bought for you initially). Here I revisit my chaotic and down right terrible shopping method ... the one that leads to my home office becoming rather grotto-like by January. It isn’t just online purchasing that leaves me with surplus presents, it’s also the fact that I do ALL.... my Christmas shopping on Christmas Eve. I know. Anyway, to aid this ridiculous behaviour, I don’t go to bed on Christmas Eve either – I stay up ALL night wrapping presents. By 5am on Christmas Day, I’m all done, organised, tidied away, tree brimming with packages shawled in all manner of delicious shiny sparkle and the kitchen cleaned, ready for guests. By 10am I am MORE than

ready for my first Eggnog. (And I’m not entirely opposed to a Buck’s Fizz at 8am, if I’ve been up all night). I’m honestly not proud of this behaviour – I’m like a Christmas shopping binger (there should be a help group) but in my defence, I always, always try to do better... and have things bought before December and wrapped with two weeks still to go. I’m not sure what it is that always scuppers that plan – a party packed December? Or simply the fact that the manic binge method has never failed me before? One thing is true... where some people dedicate a collective 5 DAYS (or more), to prepping for their gift exchange, my 12 hour mad dash seems actually quite efficient. Aside from the financial implications of over-buying I am still managing to pull it off. One day, quite possibly, it will backfire and I’ll fall asleep mid-wrap and wreck Christmas Day for everyone... but I reckon until then, it would be a struggle to break the habit. So, if you see me puffing and red faced, carrying my coat and semirunning up the Promenade on the 24th... please step aside! If you would like to share your stories about your pets with Kate Justice, please email the Editor at editor@stylemagazines.co.uk


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