Cotswold Style May 2015 by Cotswold Style Ltd

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The Hedge Funders’ Guide to The Cotswolds Castaway with

Antonio Carluccio

May 2015

Step into

Stow The town celebrates with the festival of the year!

Godfather of Italian gastronomy

£2.50

THE

Food&Festival EDIT

ROCKING THE FESTIVAL SPIRIT AT THE STUNNING SEVERN END, HANLEY CASTLE

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beautiful, bespoke handmade kitchens

benchwoodkitchens hand crafted for timeless elegance

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Benchwood Kitchens Limited 14 Global Business Park, Wilkinson Road, Cirencester, Gloucesteshire, GL7 1YZ

Telephone:

01285 643 071

Open: 10am – 4pm, Monday to Friday and 9am – 1pm Saturday

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the heart of your home...

NEW SHOWROOM NOW OPEN IN CHELTENHAM

FREE DELIVERY on all KITCHEN and BATHROOM orders

high quality finish and installation... Tel: 01242 210090 www.cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.com enquiries@cotswoldkitchensandbathrooms.co.uk Sunnybank Stables, London Road, Charlton Kings, Gloucestershire GL54 4HG

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Contents

117 16

107

102

MAY 2015

CONTENTS 10 Out and About

45 Gloucester Biltong

102 The World of Smile

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

South African meat for the locals

An all-encompassing solution for home and garden

47 The Grape Escape A new wine destination for Cheltenham

16 Real Life

We review the Kingham Plough

Personal chef, Noemi Leone

60 Partying in the garden

19 Hot Property

Our new interiors product pages

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

32 Go To Stow

113 R&R 119 Fitness Are you getting enough sleep?

123 Love for Sale? 69 Castaway Collection

Escorts in the county

Antonio Carluccio, the Godfather of Italian gastronomy

125 Claire in the County Festivals, food and frivolities

Celebrating the Stow Festival

70 Competition Win ÂŁ500 worth of IPL Hair Removal treatments at Enhance Medical Centre

127 Three-Day Eventing Kate Justice visits Badminton

73 Cotswoldia A Hedge Fundersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; guide to living in the Cotswolds

96 ME & You The new estate agents in town

SOCIAL SCENE 44 Chelbury Mushrooms 75 Cowley Manor 106 Sherbornes Solicitors

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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 Jones 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

21,962 CotswoldStyleMagazine Facebook fans

5,282

EDITOR’S FOREWORD ummer is nearly upon us, which brings us into festival and food season, the time to start partying. An abundance of festivals are taking place through the Cotswolds, starting this month in Winchcombe followed by Lechlade then onto Wychwood at Cheltenham Racecourse during the Spring Bank Holiday. Susan Blanchfield’s Cotswolds Culture column details them all. This theme was the inspiration for our fantastic ‘Festival at Severn End’ photo shoot, a fabulous home in Hanley Castle, which is the ideal venue at which to host your own private party or wedding. It was the ideal backdrop for Fashion Editor Yvette Brentnall, to create some on trend looks for the festival season. Locally produced food and drinks are also celebrated in this month’s magazine. We have met with meat producers Gloucester Biltong a new range of healthy South African dried beef and Martins Meats who have their own specialised butchery based in Teddington. New to the scene in Cheltenham is The Grape Escape, a specialised wine shop and bar opening on Bath Road at the end of May and the world renowned Antonio Carluccio who is ‘Castaway’ this May, before the grand opening of his restaurant, Carluccio’s at the Regent Arcade. Fabulous personal cook, Noemi Leone is Cotswold Style’s Real Life. Noemi, professionally known as Mimi, can dissipate all your cooking worries and will create the most magnificent Sicilian feast for any number of people in the comfort of your home. We welcome our new Interiors Editor, Emeline Watchorn who will be inspiring us with fabulous ideas and seasonal tips for the home and garden and hilarious social writer Angela Chancellor, who is guiding the Hedge Fund set moving to the Cotswolds of where to live, eat and drink and what car to buy. Also new to Cotswold Style, is Robert Ward from Bank House Investments in Cheltenham who is providing a monthly ‘surgery’ for readers with financial questions. Please do email him with any problems or queries so he may be able to help you in his new column. So, whether you are enjoying the sunshine, heading off to a festival or just staying at home to enjoy the Bank Holidays of May, I hope you have a wonderful month and enjoy this edition of Cotswold Style.

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

Cover image: Stefanie Calleja-Gera www.photographybystefanie.co.uk 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 MAY 2015 9

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t u o ab ENTERTAINMENT

RAW FOOD COOKERY COURSE AT FOODWORKS Tuesday 5th and Tuesday 12th May, from 7 to 9.30pm The Cotswolds has gone crazy for Jay Halford’s raw food courses at The Foodworks. Learn how to make everything from breakfast smoothies to delicious main meals and the ultimate healthy pud. Limited spaces are available. For further info please call 01242 870538. www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk

CHEF’S COOKS CLUB AT MONTPELLIER CHAPTER Wednesday 6th May Each month, the club starts at 11.30am with a one-hour demonstration, before a delicious two- course lunch, featuring a dish that has been showcased that day. This month’s theme is Tapas, preparing you for summer. £15.00 per person Booking essential 01242 527788 www.themontpellierchapterhotel.com

RHS MALVERN SPRING FESTIVAL AT THE THREE COUNTIES SHOWGROUND

Thursday 7th to Sunday 10th May This year’s Spring Festival heralds the 30th anniversary of this landmark show. It will see a record number of exhibitors including stunning show gardens, alongside award-winning nurseries and an abundance of garden and food celebrities and experts. BBC Gardener’s World’s Carol Klein and Joe Swift are just some of the gardening pedigree set to appear at the show. From the kitchen, Raymond Blanc, Masterchef ’s Gregg Wallace and Cotswold Chef Rob Rees will be in

10 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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In association with

with old Style Cotsw

attendance. Tickets from £15 per adult www.rhsmalvern.co.uk

ROMEO & JULIET AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Wednesday 13th to Saturday 16th May Shakespeare at the Tobacco Factory presents Shakespeare’s timeless love story. www.everymantheatre.org.uk

SPRING GARDEN DELIGHTS AT WHATLEY MANOR HOTEL & SPA Tuesday 19th May, 2nd and 16th June, 10am On selected Tuesdays over the spring and summer, Whatley Manor, near Malmesbury, offers guided tours of the gardens in the company of Andy Spreadbury, the gardens and maintenance manager. Guests enjoy tea, coffee and biscuits on arrival, before Andy brings the gardens to life explaining the inspiration behind the design and planting schemes. The garden tour lasts approximately two hours and afterwards a two-course lunch is served from 12.30pm in the Le Mazot brasserie. Tickets from £44 including the tour and two-course lunch with a glass of house wine Book on 01666 822888 or visit www.whatleymanor.com JIMMY CARR’S FUNNY BUSINESS AT CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Tuesday 19th May, 7.30pm Jimmy Carr returns once again with his third show from his Funny Business tour. If you missed him last time, this is your final chance to catch his trademark, hilarious, outrageous and rude one-liners. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition; stay for the ill-mannered jokes. Strongly recommended for an adult audience. Over 16s only. Tickets £26.50 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk SISTER ACT AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Tuesday 19th to Saturday 23rd May Cheltenham Operatic & Dramatic

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com Society celebrates their 125th year with this award-winning, smash hit musical. www.everymantheatre.org.uk

THEA GILMORE AT CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Wednesday 20th May, 7.30pm Thea Gilmore is back on the road for a UK tour to launch her brand new album. Expect to hear old favourites such as ‘London’ from her critically acclaimed 2012 album, ‘Don’t Stop Singing’. The legendary Bruce Springsteen is a massive fan. This is a great opportunity to see the phenomenal talent that is Thea Gilmore live and local. Tickets £24 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk DYLAN MORAN’S OFF THE HOOK AT CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Monday 25th and Tuesday 26th May, 7.30pm Dylan Moran, star of Black Books (Channel 4), Shaun of the Dead (2004) and Calvary (2014) is back with his new stand-up show. A Perrier Award winner, Moran has had huge success as both a writer and performer. Previous international tours have cemented this unkempt wordsmith’s reputation as one of the foremost comics of his generation, earning him the label of ‘The Oscar Wilde of Comedy.’ Over 15s only. May contain strong language. Tickets £26.50 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk BIRMINGHAM ROYAL BALLET AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Tuesday 26th to Wednesday 27th May Birmingham Royal Ballet is back and performing Quatrain, Facade and excerpts from Beauty and the Beast, Swan Lake and La Fille mal gardée. www.everymantheatre.org.uk

BREWERY JAZZ NIGHT AT THE KINGS HEAD HOTEL IN CIRENCESTER Friday 29th May, doors open 7.45pm Held in the vaulted cellar at the Kings Head, the evening will be headlined by Andy Hughes Double Standards. Arrive

SPONSORED BY

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Beyond yyour Beyond our eexpectations xpectations www.hamptons.co.uk w ww.hamptons.co.uk

Twyning, T wyning, G Gloucestershire loucestershire A ccharming harming ccharacter haracter h home, ome, full full of of historical historical features features yyet et sympathetically sympathetically improved improved and and d wonderful well-proportioned accommodation rrefurbished efurbished tto o ccreate reate a w onderful ffamily amily home home with with w ell-proportioned ac commodation on plot with sset et o n a llarge arge p lot w ith llovely ovely gardens gardens and and lake. lake.

Guide G uid e P Price rice ÂŁ1 ÂŁ1,350,000 ,350,000 t t t t t t

Hamptons Cheltenham Hamptons Cheltenham Sales 01242 639414 Lettings. 639416 S ales 0 1242 6 39414 | L ettings. 01242 01242 6 39416 22 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

5b bedrooms edrooms 3b bath/shower ath/shower rrooms ooms 3 rreception eception ro rooms oms Superb S uperb k kitchen/breakfast/family itchen /breakfa f st/family rroom oom Tranquil T ranquil ccarp arrp la llake k ke IIn na all ll just just over over 2 acres acres

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Cheltenham, C heltenham, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire Forming p Forming part art of of a classic classic Grade Grrade II* II* listed listed Italianate Italianate tterrace errace iin n one one of of Cheltenham’s Cheltenham’s most desirable beautifully and designed m ost d esirable rresidential esidential llocations, ocations, a b eautifully rrenovated enovated a nd d esigned ssplit plit llevel evel apartment. a partment.

Guide G uide Price: Price: £ £655,000 655,000 t t t t t t

3b bedrooms edrooms 3b bath/shower ath/shower rrooms ooms 3 rreception eception ro rooms oms Kitchen/dining K itchen /dining ro room om Private P rivate ccourtyard ourt yard d ggarden arden Off O f f rroad oad p parking arking sspace pace

COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 23

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

LANSDOWN ROAD

Alison Close Associate closea@kingslyevans.co.uk

Shirley Smedley-Brown Associate Director smedleybrowns@kingsleyevans.co.uk

£1,845,000

One Of the mOSt elegAnt AnD ChArming hOmeS in A ClASSiC Setting in the heArt Of lAnSDOwn.

lanesﬁeld house is a magniﬁcent and substantial detached residence reception hall Drawing room Kitchen/Dining room family room master Suite with en Suite Six further Bedrooms two further Bathrooms lower ground Accommodation comprising Kitchen/Breakfast room gymnasium music room Bedroom Sitting room Bathroom wet room lovely garden Double garage.

WELLINGTON SQUARE

£1,650,000

A Stunning grADe 11 liSteD tOwnhOuSe with A Self-COntAineD ApArtment One BeDrOOm mewS COttAge OverlOOKing One Of CheltenhAm’S fineSt SquAreS this beautiful home offers spacious and flexible accommodation over four floors reception hall Drawing room Dining room Kitchen master Suite with en Suite five further Bedrooms two Bathrooms reading Area pretty garden two Bedroom Self Contained apartment Clarington Cottage – A one Bedroom mews Cottage with A Separate title.

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

£1,185,000

closea@kingslyevans.co.uk

Shirley Smedley-Brown Associate Director

ROYAL PARADE

Alison Close Associate

smedleybrowns@kingsleyevans.co.uk

HEWLETT ROAD

£1,075,000

An exquiSite town houSe in one of CheltenhAm fineSt pArADeS

A hAnDSome ViCtoriAn DouBle fronteD DetACheD VillA SiteD within wAlking DiStAnCe to town

this beautiful home is set over four floors, briefly comprising reception hall Drawing room Dining room kitchen master Suite with en Suite two further bedrooms with en Suite Shower Bedroom four Bathroom lower ground level comprising two Bedrooms Sitting room kitchen Shower room lovely gardens off road parking x3.

oﬀering beautifully proportioned accommodation over four ﬂoors and the opportunity to use the house as one requires Drawing room Sitting room Dining room kitchen/Breakfast room Conservatory five Bedrooms two Bathrooms lower ground Accommodation comprising A gym Cinema room kitchenette Study this could easily be self-contained accommodation 140 rear garden Spacious Driveway behind gates.

off SAnDy lAne, ChArlton kingS £665,000

AShleworth

A BeAutifully refurBiSheD BungAlow in one of CheltenhAm’S fineSt reSiDentiAl AreAS.

BumBleBee CottAge iS A DetACheD new BuilD home of DiStinCtion, exemplifying StyliSh DeSign AnD Built with luxury AnD light in minD.

offering modern and stylish accommodation over one level reception hall magnificent kitchen/family room Sitting room master Suite with en Suite three further Bedrooms luxury Bathroom pretty garden with Decked Area and a Brook off road parking for Several Cars.

SpeCiAliStS in prime property

£650,000

the property has been constructed to the highest of standards with charming details and as such reﬂects a contemporary home conducive to modern family living kitchen Drawing room Study the master Suite with a Dressing Area and en suite Shower room A modern family bathroom serves the remaining three bedrooms A timber amed open bay carport with tool store and work shop pretty & private gardens Due for completion Spring 2015.

visit: 115 the promenade, Cheltenham, gl50 1nw

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ELDERSFIELD

£600,000

Occupying a truly delightful rural location with marvellous open views is this four bedroom barn conversion with a southerly facing aspect overlooking its attractive landscaped gardens and paddock, in all about 2.1 acres. Its beautifully presented accommodation oﬀers a wealth of character features and comprises an entrance hall, a spacious living room with wood burner, a kitchen/breakfast room, a utility/boot room, four bedrooms with the master sharing a Jack and Jill bathroom with bedroom two, an en-suite shower room and a family bathroom. Private driveway with access via an electronically operated gate, parking for several vehicles, a summerhouse, a low maintenance mature courtyard garden leading to a lawned garden and a fenced enclosure with a two bay open equestrian shelter leading to the paddock. D

CHELTENHAM

£572,500

A substantial period town house with a garden flat and off road parking within easy walking distance of Pittville Park and the town centre. This stylish property offers a wealth of character features including fireplaces, ceiling mouldings and joinery and the principal house comprises an entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, a wonderful fitted kitchen/breakfast room, utility, four bedrooms, an en-suite shower room to the master bedroom and a luxurious family bathroom. In addition the garden flat offers a modern fitted kitchen/breakfast room, living room, bathroom and a double bedroom with an en-suite shower room.

CHARLTON KINGS

£650,000

An extended five bedroom detached house in a splendid tucked away location backing on to St Edward's School. Its accommodation is offered in good decorative order and comprises dining room, a fitted kitchen with an arch leading to the breakfast room with a sitting area, utility room, a conservatory, five bedrooms including a large master bedroom with a walk-in wardrobe and an en-suite bathroom, a family bathroom and a shower room. Further benefits include gas central heating, double glazing, impressive gardens, parking for several vehicles and a garage with an electronically operated up and over door. EPC: D.

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LECKHAMPTON HILL

£950,000

Located in a wonderfully elevated spot with delightful grounds in the region of 2.3 acres including a former paddock is this five bedroom detached family house with a wealth of character features. Its accommodation comprises an entrance porch with a cloaks cupboard, a generous hall, downstairs cloakroom, living room with an impressive stone fireplace, sun room, dining room, family room, a kitchen/breakfast room, utility, walk-in pantry, five bedrooms, the master with an en-suite bathroom, and a further bathroom. The views from this fine property are a joy to behold and other benefits include great potential provided by the large boarded attic space with windows, gas central heating, a wonderful mix of outside space with enchanting wooded areas and cultivated landscaped gardens, garaging and parking for numerous vehicles. E

Customer Charter You can expect the following from us: total honesty realism frequent communication transparency ethical behaviour at all times a never-ending determination to get results

CHARLTON KINGS

£1,000,000

A luxurious family residence with versatile accommodation over two floors that offers up to six bedrooms. The sheer spaciousness of this fine property with high ceilings asks to be explored and on the ground floor comprises a generous hall, a quite remarkable kitchen/breakfast room that flows effortlessly into a dining room, a utility room, a cloakroom, a large living room with a shared log burner, three bedrooms, an impressive family room that could be used as a guest bedroom, and a bathroom. Above there is a splendid galleried landing with a study area, the master bedroom with a dressing room, an en-suite bathroom and double doors to a balcony with hillside views, and a further bedroom or study. Parking for numerous vehicles, a double garage and an impressive rear garden. C.

We will not: raise false expectations behave unethically or encourage others to do so

Nigel Errington-Smith

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Hot Property

Montpellier, Cheltenham Setting the scene: Queens Parade is a stunning terrace of Grade II listed dressed stone townhouses situated in the heart of Montpellier. Number 6 is a mid-terrace four storey property split into four individual apartments. Why we love it: The recently renovated Apartment 4 is located on the second floor. Off the wellpresented communal area, the apartment opens into an entrance hall where coats and shoes can be stored. The stairs lead up to the mezzanine floor where there is a double bedroom and shower room. Up to the second floor landing, which is flooded with light from a stunning atrium, there is ample space for a study area. Off the landing is a further double bedroom and bathroom, which is fitted with a Duravit Stark 1 suite. To the front of the apartment is the sitting/dining room which has an open fire, beautiful period features and two sash hung windows overlooking the delightful tree lined Bayshill Road. The modern kitchen is fully fitted with Neff appliances and Corian worktops, and has space for a breakfast table which sits in front of the sash window in the kitchen. At the rear of the property is a shared store room and to the front is an allocated parking space. Guide price ÂŁ425,000 hayley.wilks@knightfrank.com Knight Frank Cheltenham 01242 246959 28 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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Hot Property

The Park, Cheltenham Setting the scene: Tivoli Mansions is an imposing dressed stone villa situated on the corner of Tivoli Road and The Park and is surrounded by beautifully manicured communal gardens. Why we love it: Tivoli Mansions is set back from the road and was constructed in 2004 in a Regency style. Number 6 is on the raised ground floor and is accessed via well-kept communal areas. The spacious open plan kitchen/living/dining room has many period style features with high ceilings, coving and three tall windows which overlook the communal gardens to the side. The kitchen is fully fitted with fridge, freezer, washing machine and dishwasher and offers plenty of cupboard and worktop space. Bedroom one has a modern en suite shower room, a built in wardrobe and a dual south/east aspect making it a beautifully light room throughout the day. Bedroom two is a small double room which has use of a generous bathroom off the hallway. There is a storage cupboard which houses the boiler off the spacious hallway. To the rear of the building there is allocated parking plus visitors parking and wheel chair access to the building. Guide price: ÂŁ295,000 hayley.wilks@knightfrank.com Knight Frank Cheltenham 01242 246959 COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 29

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Hot Property

Ryeworth Road Charlton Kings Setting the scene: The Light House is a detached single story residence exemplifying innovative design and built with luxury and light in mind. Why we love it: Built 8 years ago, the property has been constructed to the highest of standards and as such reflects a contemporary home conducive to modern family living. Great onus has been placed on creating a home that offers practical living space on one level with emphasis on bringing the outside in. The glass front takes full advantage of a courtyard area and bi folding doors open to a private decked area to the rear. Briefly comprising: Kitchen /Family/Dining Room, Sitting Room with Bi Folding Doors, Master suite with luxurious En suite wet room. Guest Bedroom with En Suite Shower Room. Two further bedrooms of good proportions and a family bathroom. Bedroom four could be used as a study, creating space to use the house as one requires.

Price: ÂŁ665,000 Details: Kingsley Evans, Cheltenham Tel: 01242 222292 wisemanj@kingsleyevans.co.uk; www.kingsleyevans.co.uk 30 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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Hot Property

Painswick Road, Cheltenham Setting the scene: A substantial Grade II listed end terrace Regency townhouse retaining many period features and character that has been divided into two spacious duplex apartments. Why we love it: Flexible accommodation with the possibility of living in one duplex and renting and managing the second one or turning it back into one substantial family home (subject to the necessary planning consents). Guide Price: ÂŁ875,000 Freehold Details: Hamptons, Cheltenham Tel: 01242 639414 cheltenham@hamptons-int.com COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 31

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Festival time in

STOW-ONTHE-WOLD Cotswold Style heads to the sophisticated market town of Stow-on-the-Wold with its honey coloured homes, significant antique shops, traditional pubs and exclusive boutiques Stow-on-the-Wold is situated in the north Cotswolds, where all roads seem to lead to the hill-top town and it has been that way for a long time - the ancient Jurassic Way and the Salt Way met here and an Iron Age fort was built c.700 BC. The Roman Fosse Way from Cirencester to Shopkeepers and organisers celebrate the launch of Stow Cotswold Festival on the 4th of July at Stow Market Cross

32 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

Leicester passes through Stow although the town is mostly off to one side, reflecting its establishment as another of the planned market towns for which the Cotswolds is renowned. Stow had a special importance in the English Civil War; it was close by at

Donnington, that the last battle was fought in March 1646. St Edward's Church in the town centre was used as a prison for the defeated Royalist troops. At the height of the Cotswold wool industry, the town was known for its huge annual fairs where as many as 20,000 sheep were sold at one time. The vast Market Square testifies to the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s former importance. At one-end stands the ancient medieval cross a reminder of the market's heyday placed to encourage traders to do business fairly under the sight of God and at the other end, the town stocks, shaded between an old elm tree. Around the square, the visitor is faced with an elegant array of Cotswold town houses and shops. Stow is an important shopping centre and has many fine Antique shops, Art galleries, Gifts and Crafts and is a centre for Walking the Cotswolds countryside. The history of the town is marked with a biennial STOW COTSWOLD FESTIVAL, which this year takes place on Saturday 4th July. The curtain raiser sees The Military Wives Choir, Brize Norton perform a

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Towns: Stow-on-the-Wold

Meet a few companies from the town... CHAUSALLE Chausalle boutique is a treasure of a find on one side of the square in Stow. Stocking an eclectic mix of timeless, chic clothing to unique accessories, jewellery and handbags, there is bound to be something that you will wish to covet. Sally stocks beautiful Spanish shirts and jackets from Madrid through to easy wear pieces such as Onjenu wrap dresses which are made in France. In beautiful colours, non-iron and packing to nothing, they are a great staple in any woman's wardrobe whether for a wedding, lunch or everyday. Added to that there are Makki eel skin handbags, elegant contemporary jewellery, Milume Liberty print knickers and bra straps and casual easy wear linen and cotton pieces plus beautiful scarves for everyday. There is even a ‘man crèche’ so you can shop peacefully without interruption! www.chausalle.co.uk Tel: 01451 830525

GROOVY2SHOES

rousing concert the night before on Friday 3rd July. The singers perform at 7.30pm in St Edward’s Church under the banner ‘Music at Stow’. The following day, the Festival will commence with a gesture of ‘hands across the ocean’, as stars and stripes will shine alongside Union Flags celebrating American Independence Day. Popcorn, candy floss, hot dogs, hamburgers and Stetsons will add a ‘yee-ha’ to the celebration of all things Stow and Cotswolds at this family extravaganza. A pioneering community quilt will be just one fun activity on offer. Festival visitors and locals can contribute their stitching skills in a mass ‘Sewing Bee’ at St Edward’s Hall. The finished 4ftx4ft patchwork will then wing its way across the Atlantic to Appomattox, USA – >

Groovy2Shoes is an independent children’s shoe shop offering a high quality fitting service by a qualified shoe fitter and member of the Society of Shoe Fitters. We are a recognised Start-rite stockist but also carry a fantastic range of European brands in diverse styles and width fittings that offers your child that something a little bit different. The shop has been designed with children and parents in mind and offers a pleasurable shoe shopping experience. It is easily accessible for prams, buggies and wheelchairs and has a funky vibrant feel. There are toys, books, a huge blackboard and a very popular train set to keep those younger customers happy. For parents there are comfortable seating areas, as well as magazines and newspapers. So if you are looking for great fitting children’s shoes and a friendly personal service then visit us here in Stow-onthe-Wold. www.groovy2shoes.co.uk Tel: 01451 798171

HOLIDAYSPLEASE Debbie@holidaysplease is a traditional travel agent located in the Square , Stow-on-theWold. Debbie is well known in the area having previously owned Deb-on-air- Travel in

Moreton in Marsh . She then spent many years working with the internet. With over 30 years experience in all aspects of the travel business, Debbie excels in Luxury tailor-made holidays and has personally visited many of the locations and properties that she sells. If you need sensible, useful advice then do give her a call !! – you’ll get old fashioned service, competitive prices, together with the most up to date technology and the ability to contact Debbie evenings and weekends if you are too busy during the normal working day. Fully bonded with ABTA you can be sure of great service with a smile!! Tel: 01451 810255 or email Debbietaylor@holidaysplease.com www.holidaysplease.com

KENDALL AND DAVIES SOLICITORS With offices in four locations in the Cotswolds, Moreton-in-Marsh, Stow-on-theWold, Bourton-on-the-Water and Burford, Kendall and Davies are able to service a wide range of clients. We have a team of experienced lawyers who can advise on all aspects of property and conveyancing matters, private client issues including wills, probate, tax planning and trusts and powers of attorney as well as family law and litigation. We recognise the importance of high quality client service and are accustomed to forming close and long lasting relationships with our clients in the Cotswolds, London and further afield. Our local knowledge of the area and indeed the people and our accessibility, help us to be recognised as the first point of contact for anybody in the Cotswolds who requires assistance with legal issues or matters. www.kendallanddavies.co.uk Tel: 01451 830295

THE KING’S ARMS Nestled in the Market Square The Kings Arms offers a choice of ten en-suite rooms full of character and individual charm, a quirky restaurant featuring a mixture of vintage and contemporary decor, high backed purple chairs and animal print bar stalls and a traditional pub with original features, both serving hearty British food using locally sourced meat and produce in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. >

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Hair &

Beauty

20 %o ff

Excluding our current Special Offers and Hair Colouring/ Perming Services. Please cut out this voucher and bring it in with you to your next appointment.

MRS

Hair and Beauty STOWâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S NEW SALON FOR MEN & WOMEN Digbeth Street, Stow On The Wold Gloucestershire, GL54 1BN

34 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

01451

832 420

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Towns: Stow-on-the-Wold Passing through or stopping for longer there is something for everyone whether that’s a well earned pint at the end of the day, Proper Pie ‘n’ Pint night on a Wednesday or getting the weekend off to a flying start with Fish & Fizz on a Friday. Enjoy a traditional pint of Real Ale? Come and join us on 4th July for our Beer & Cider Festival. www.kingsarmsstow.co.uk Tel: 01451 830364

LOWER SLAUGHTER MANOR

to build on the two towns’ unique friendship link. Stow was the scene of the last major skirmish in the English Civil War, in 1646. The Battle of Appomattox Court House, near Virginia, Massachusetts, was one of the American Civil War’s final battles in 1865. “Our American friends celebrate their 150th anniversary this year. We look forward to seeing their greetings to Stow against the backdrop of a Civil War reenactment, screened at the Festival and enjoyed with US-themed refreshments. We want to encourage everyone to join in making the quilt on the day,” said Stow and District Civic Society chairman and festival committee member Nigel Surman. “It will be a traditional English quilt with hexagonal paper piecing. People can stitch a hexagon, or sponsor one. There will also be a message book for people’s comments and addresses if they’d like to forge further with individual friendships. Perhaps this could also lead to an on-line conversation between the two towns.” Led by expert quilter Stephanie Venn, with >

Set in the heart of one of England’s prettiest villages, Lower Slaughter Manor and The Slaughters Country Inn offer two enchanting venues for a wedding day to remember. Lower Slaughter Manor is a beautiful 17th Century manor house combining striking interiors with traditional charm, attentive service and one of the most acclaimed restaurants in the Cotswolds. With five acres of manicured gardens and lawns, this luxury country house hotel is an opulent yet idyllic backdrop for your perfect wedding. Situated just a stone’s throw away, across the stream that meanders through the village, The Slaughters Country Inn offers the authentic charm of a traditional village inn; exceptional food, fine real ales, log fires and a stunning terrace. With interiors reflecting the property’s unique character and history, perched on the banks of the River Eye, this quintessential country inn lends a relaxed, romantic air to your special day. With both venues licensed for civil ceremonies, this fairytale Cotswold village is the perfect backdrop for a magical wedding. www.lowerslaughter.co.uk Tel: 01451 820456

MR & MRS HAIR AND BEAUTY SALON Based in the tranquil market town Stow-On-The-Wold. Shane & Charlotte "Mr & Mrs", opened their doors in October 2012. A friendly, welcoming family Salon for all your Hair and Beauty needs, using professional and high quality products such as Schwarzkopf, Essie, CND and Neil's Yard Remedies. Call today to find out more... 01451 832420.

R A BENNETT & PARTNERS R A Bennett & Partners are the largest Estate Agency network within the Cotswolds and are uniquely placed to find a buyer for your property at the very best price. You can expect a personal and bespoke

service from the Stow-on-the-Wold office and be sure that our team of highly trained staff will be there to offer the advice and support you need to get you through the process of selling and buying. We are dedicated and passionate about what we do and always aim to deliver first class service. With a favourable spring market, many will now be considering a move and sellers should look carefully at the marketing skills of their potential agent. We provide maximum market coverage with nineteen linked offices across the region. We are part of the UK’s largest Estate Agency Group with over 1200 offices countrywide. Exposing Cotswold properties to London buyers is so important that we jointly market suitable homes through our associates John D Wood who have offices throughout the capital in locations such as Chelsea, Kensington and Belgravia. I believe we provide an unrivalled service to buyers and sellers alike, please contact us to see how we can be of assistance. www.rabennett.co.uk Tel: 01451 831045

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD DENTAL PRACTICE Celebrating their first anniversary this May, Stow-on-the-Wold Dental Practice is located in the heart of the town in Talbot Court, facing on to Sheep Street. The practice has state-of-the-art facilities and caters for all aspects of Dentistry from general restorative care for adults and children, to cosmetic, facial and surgical procedures such as Dental Implants, Invisalign (invisible braces), Teeth Whitening, Botox and Fillers for which Free Consults are available. The practice also offers Denplan Care Schemes, 0% Finance* and Disabled Access. The experienced dental team is led by Dr Ross Cutts who is a Member of the Faculty of Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons, Member of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Member of the Association of Dental Implantology and Fellow of the International Team for Implantology. Please contact Angela at the practice on 01451 832265 / reception@stowonthewolddental practice.com or book your New Patient Examination on-line at www.stowonthewolddentalpractice.com

STOW OPTICIANS The Optician, Stow-on-the-Wold on Sheep Street is run by James Shelley and offers a >

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Are you paying too much Tax?

Cosy Rooms Ten en-suite rooms with individual character and original features, all beautifully decorated in keeping with this historic former coaching inn.

Delicious Food Whether it's a quick bar snack you fancy or a threecourse meal from the restaurant, there's something for everyone's taste on our locally produced home-made menus.

Traditional Pub

soak up our warm, friendly atmosphere by enjoying a drink from our selection of real ales, lagers, wines and spirits or dining in the bar area. Come and join us on 4th July for our

Beer & Cider Festival The Kings Arms, Market Square Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AF

01451 830 364 info@kingsarmsstow.co.uk 36 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

We are a proactive firm of accountants and business advisors looking to save you and your business money! Please call us on

01451 831130

or email to arrange for a free, no obligation meeting to discuss the savings we could make you.

williamhinton chartered accountants and business consultants

making business better

Ross House, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold Gloucestershire GL54 1AF Telephone: 01451 831130 Fax: 01451 832233

enquiries@williamhinton.co.uk www.williamhinton.co.uk

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WWW.COTSWOLDS.COM – COTSWOLDS TOURISM PARTNERSHIP

Towns: Stow-on-the-Wold

inspiring work on display, volunteers will demonstrate and help piece the quilt together as a surprise gift for Appomattox. In 1646 blood was said to be “flowing in the gutters and down Digbeth Street” at the Battle of Stow. The Parliamentarians drove outnumbered Royalist troops, led by Charles Ist’s senior infantry commander Sir Jacob Astley, into the market square. Today’s town centre witnessed over 4,000 men and cavalry in hand-to-hand combat. More than 1,500 Royalist prisoners were taken and held overnight in St Edwards Church. The colourful quilt will pay homage to the desperate last stand. Festivalgoers can also create a striking Stars and Stripes rosette as a memento to wear and take home. “The aim of the Festival is to introduce Stow to new visitors, to offer a family fun day for visitors and locals alike and to contribute to local charities. We expect our Festival to be lots of fun, with something for everyone,” said Maggie Deacon, Stow Cotswold Festival chairman. Live music features on the stage in the afternoon including Cotswold School’s Back to Black brass section, Silver Bough and Gloster Gladiators Scout Band. Stow Square then hosts a Square Dance until 10.30pm. The event is supporting three main charities: Stow Springboard Children’s Centre; Stow Disability Association and Sue Ryder Leckhampton Court Hospice, Cheltenham. Tickets for the Military Wives Choir are £12, available from mid-May, from the Borzoi Bookshop, Stow and www.musicatstow.com. The choir is directed by conductor/organist David Ashley and features soprano Rose Johnson.

friendly, local service. Providing private and NHS eye tests for the whole family as well as contact lens check, trials and aftercare. If you’re fed up with your old glasses, or don’t want the same mass-produced pair as everyone else you know, pop in for an affordable, smart new look. As an independent practice they offer a unique range of designer and artisan, hand made frames such as Barbour or Rockoptika. Supplying some of the world’s best varifocals and lenses, which aren't readily available from high street chains. Are you having trouble reading your iPad? Do you struggle with glare when driving? Do you just want to look fabulous in your eyewear? Then call The Optician now! For more information visit www.stowoptician.co.uk or call 01451 830554 to book an appointment. They look forward to seeing you see better.

THE OLD STOCK’S INN Nestled in the heart of Stow’s market square, The Old Stocks Inn is a recently refurbished 17th-century coaching inn that really stands out from the crowd. Bringing together traditional Cotswolds charm and cool, contemporary Scandinavian design, the hotel has been given a multi-million pound refit over the past few months and is now one of the most unique and stylish boutique hotels in the South West. Its 16 inviting bedrooms are all full of character, with lots of quirky original features and plenty of home-from-home comforts. Enjoying a relaxing meal in the hotel’s new restaurant and bar is a must, as that’s where you’ll find some of the region’s best produce, not to mention a great tipple or two. Headed up by Claridges-trained chef Chris White, his unique take on great British dishes makes every meal a mouth-watering feast. The hotel is also home to a bustling coffee shop and a beautiful garden, previously considered to be one of Stow’s best-kept secrets. However, with a garden pizzeria just weeks from completion, The Old Stocks Inn will surely be one of the most talked about spots in Stow this summer. www.oldstocksinn.com Tel: 01451 830666

THE TALBOT Steve Bennett and myself, Kevin Barron, are delighted to have recently taken over the Talbot. Both Steve and I have achieved almost identical goals within the Hospitality Sector

and aim to transfer these skill sets into the next chapter of our careers and lives. We aim to create and sustain a great Food Led Pub, which it is our future dream to expand upon, providing first class beers, food, drinks, ambience and service, all delivered within the relaxed ‘Pub’ environment. Our product is a simple yet at times complex one, we want to provide Modern British Food with some International Influences gleaned from over 25 years in this industry and travels across the World, eating in everything from Street Food Vendors, Pubs, Bistro’s to 3 Michelin Starred restaurants across Europe and New York. We have both worked extensively for a large part of our Careers in the Cotswolds from Award Winning Hotels such as Buckland Manor, Washbourne Court, Lower Slaughter Manor and the Lygon Arms, we are very confident we know the area, demographics, likely customer base and equally important the artisan producers, suppliers and products to support us and help realise this vision More and more Pubs are becoming recognised as venues for high levels of Food and Service and we believe coupling this with first class drinks brands and the excellent beers brewed by the Wadworth Family. The Talbot, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1BQ Tel: 01451 870934

WILLIAM HINTON LIMITED At William Hinton Limited our main focus is to offer excellent customer service. Your typical accountant is seen as dull and boring interested in just one thing, numbers! Not at William Hinton. Ian, Daimien and the team are keen to hear what drives you. What are your ambitions? Where do you want to be in 5, 10, 15 years time? How can we help you get there? Gone are the days when you begrudgingly spoke to your accountant once a year in fear of the bill you would receive. Ian and Daimien are keen to build long lasting relationships with regular contact throughout the year. Having focused on your objectives we will work with our clients to minimise taxation leaving surplus funds for reinvestment in your business. Ultimately we enjoy what we do and we are keen to work with like minded people. If you are interested in a free health check do not hesitate to call on 01451 831130 or email enquiries@williamhinton.co.uk, quoting Style2015.

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James Lakeland Idano Onjenu Amazing Woman Bariloche Tinta Makki Handbags Milume Brodie Cashmere Finals House, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, GL54 1AF

01451 830525 www.chausalle.co.uk

PENSION TRUST Releasing some of your Pension for that dream holiday is a decission not to be taken lightly.

Which is why you can trust debbie@holidaysplease.com

We have all the experience and know-how you can rely on.

GHEELH @ KROLGD\VSOHDVH t: 01451 810 255 e: debbie@holidaysplease.com or call in at: 1 The High Street, Stow on the Wold. 38 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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THE CLASSIC CHARM OF AN ENGLISH MANOR HOUSE Discover more at www.bucklandmanor.co.uk or call 01386 306 481

A Q U I N T E S S E N T I A L CO U N T RY I N N

A L AV I S H C H ÂT E A U I N O N E O F

IN THE HE ART OF THE COTSWOLDS

ENGL AND’S PRET TIEST VILL AGES

www.theslaughtersinn.co.uk or call 01451 493 311

www.lowerslaughter.co.uk or call 01451 493 310

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Make the most of midweek catch-ups and enjoy 25% off lunch at The Old Stocks Inn when you dine in the restaurant from Monday to Friday.

The Old Stocks Inn, The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire GL54 1AF 01451 830 666 oldstocksinn.com info@oldstocksinn.com /oldstocksinn

/oldstocksinn

Terms and conditions apply. Please see our website for further information.

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URHAM HOUSE ANTIQUES

Town and Country Furniture

Period Furniture Paintings Ceramics & Glass Silver & Metalware Jewellery Books Objets de vertu... 4 large showrooms | Open 7 days a week Sheep Street, Stow-on-the-Wold GL54 1AA Tel: 01451 870404 E: DurhamHouseGB@aol.com

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We have both worked extensively for a large part of our Careers in the Cotswolds from Award Winning Hotels such as Buckland Manor, Slaughters Inn, Lower Slaughter Manor and the Lygon Arms, we are very confident we know the area, demographics, likely customer base and equally important the artisan producers, suppliers and products to support us and help realise this vision.

Kevin and Steve look forward to welcoming you to The Talbot

01451 870 934 The Square, Stow-on-the-Wold, Gloucestershire GL54 1BQ 42 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

cie

Our aim is to create and sustain a local, great Food Led Pub, sourced from the best local suppliers and accessible to all, providing first class beers, food, drinks, ambience and service, all delivered within the relaxed ‘Pub’ environment.

Please pop in and see us, our opening times are: Monday 9.30 – 5pm Tuesday Tu uesday 9.30 – 5pm W ednesday 9.30 – 12.30pm Wednesday Thursday 9.30 – 5pm F riday 9.30 – 5pm Friday Saturday 9.30 – 5pm

We are closed Sundays and Bank Holidays

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BOOK DINNER Have 2 COURSES and with this ad you will get a glass of HOUSE WINE per person. Please mention the ad when booking

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COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 43

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

Style Event

Kieran Walsh, Gold Circle

Sally Beeton, G’s Fresh

Celebrations for Chelbury Mushrooms Chelbury Organic Mushrooms of Sou tham, celebrated its 50th anniversary with a day at Cheltenham Races. Clients attende d the fun-filled event, from Abel & Cole, Rive rford, Whole Foods Market and Gold Circle Mushrooms, as well as staff from G’s Fresh, the owners of the mushroom farm. Photography by Rob Wheatman

David Ibbotson, Abel & Cole

t Makeda Bernard, Whole Foods Marke

Jim Robinson, G’s Fresh; Martin Hump hreys, Abel & Cole and Peter Howard, Chelbury Mushrooms

and Denise Stock, Chelbury Mushrooms t Roberto Gionelli, Whole Foods Marke

Darren Huxtable, G’s Fresh Mark Haynes, G’s Fresh

Jessica Felton-Page, G’s Fresh

Peter Sargeant, G’s Fresh

44 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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Business

Q&A

Beautiful Biltong Emma Logan spoke to Paul Elliott from The Gloucester Biltong Company What exactly is Biltong? It’s an air dried meat snack.

Why did you decide to start making it here in Gloucestershire and what did you have to do to provide the authenticity? I had my first taste of Biltong at a local pub in Gloucester over 15 years ago. The landlord subsequently sold the pub 5 years later and that’s when I realised that it wasn’t readily available locally. After speaking with the landlord on how it was made, I decided that maybe I would give it a go myself. I made a Biltong drying box and bought the meat from my local supermarket. I sourced the spices on the internet and experimented with other flavours to come up with an authentic tasting Biltong. At this point it was just for my own personal use and some friends and family. After many favourable comments, my wife Teresa, suggested that I should turn my hobby into a business. A close friend (Craig Edwards) and I decided that we would give it a go. We looked around for suitable premises and found the ideal unit at Kestrel Court Business Park. We invited Environmental Health to visit and tell us whether it would be suitable for food production. They informed us what we needed to do so we could make the necessary alterations. In January 2015 we ordered the dryers from South Africa which were delivered at the end of that month. Work began on February 1st to make our unit ready for production. During that six week period we had our

Craig Edwards and Paul Elliott

labels created under the guidance of Trading Standards, once that was done we sourced the packaging.

What cuts of beef do you use and what are your flavours? Our cuts of meat are Silverside of beef, 100% British supplied by Ben Creese Country Butchers from Staunton in Gloucestershire. Our flavours are traditional (salt, pepper, coriander) and Naga chilli (our secret blend) and is allergen free and contains no MSG. What are the health benefits of Biltong? It is a high protein, low fat, healthy snack.

How is it best eaten? It’s ideal as a post-workout, high protein, healthy snack and a great accompanient over a glass of wine or beer. It’s also perfect for children instead of sweets and crisps etc.

Where can we buy it buy from in Gloucestershire and do you deliver? You can come into to our unit at Kestrel Court and buy it packaged or loose and we can deliver. We are hoping to stock it in all the local rugby clubs in Gloucester and getting our product into other retail outlets including bars and pubs as a healthy alternative to crisps.

How much does it cost? Our 40g packs are £2.50 but you can buy it loose from us at £35 per kilo, or as much or as little as you require. Please visit The Gloucester Biltong Company Unit 28, Kestrel Court, Waterwells Drive, Gloucester GL2 2AT Tel: 01452 346 496

COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 45

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MICH MIC H HAEL F MICHAEL DUFF TESTIMONIAL T L DINNER TESTIMONIAL

Details ffor or purchasing pu urchasing a ttable able at the Dinner are belo w w: Details below:

THURSD THUR H HUR SDAY 14TH H MAY MA M AY THURSDAY :45pm, Reception at 6:45pm, followed by Dinner, A uction & followed Auction Entertainment. Live En terttainment. Carriages es at 2am

May Events In Tewkesbury

HOTEL FOO FOOT T BALL HOTEL FOOTBALL OL LD TRAFFOR D, MANC HESTER OLD TRAFFORD, MANCHESTER

F Fundrai sing for for Zoe’s Zoe’’s Fundraising Place, Middlesbrough P lace, Middl esbrough

Seann Walsh Fri 1 May 8pm

Gerry Cross The Mersey

Name Of The Game

Fri 15 May 7.30pm

Sat 16 May 7.30pm

ake e a book ing or ffor or To make booking more inf information please formation pl ease contact Lucy ct L ucy on: lucy@onesportsmgmt.co.uk onespor espor tsmgmt.co.uk or call 016 0161 61 817 5249

@md4testimonial @md4testimonial ww w.md4testimonial.co.uk w.md4t estimonial.co.uk www.md4testimonial.co.uk

MIC C HAEL DUFF MICHAEL

HOTEL HO E : EL: HOTEL:

e newly newly opened £24m football football themed The otel e overlooking overlooking Old Trafford Trafford is the he perfect perfect hotel ace e to to celebrate celebrate Michaels testimonial testimo onial year. place

R yan Giggs, Gary Gary Nevill Neville, e Phil Ryan Neville, v e vill e, Paul Scholes Scho es & Nicky Nickkky y Butt Neville,

EAT. AT T.. DRINK. DR SLEEP P. FO OTBA ALL. EAT. SLEEP. FOOTBALL.

The Demon Barbers XL

James Wilton Dance: Last Man Standing

Fri 8 May 7.30pm

Thurs 21 May 7.30pm

e the the brains brains behind behind the 133 room room hotel h ho otell and d are he décor d reflects football football past and d present present the reflects h old old d Panini stickers of footballing footballing greats as with throughout the hotel. hotel. wallpaper throughout

W ith th its rooftop rooftop bar spanning spannin n g views ng vie ws across across Manchester, Manchest Manc c hester, chest er,, you y u will be abl yo able e to to watch watch the sun s set as With en terta ned by b comedian Justin Moore Moorehous house, se, a cel celebrity ebrity DJ D J and much more. m ore. you are entertained Moorehouse,

Take a trip to

Marinades Caribbean Restaurant Bar and Grill

Cheltenham’s Original Caribbean Restaurant Ralph McTell

Bella Hardy

Sun 17 May 7.30pm

Wed 20 May 7.30pm

Dietrich Letters Sat 23 May 7.30pm

Marinades

Caribbean Restaurant Bar & Grill

The Basil Brush Show Michael Morpurgo Thurs 28 May 11am & 2.30pm

Authentic and stylish Caribbean cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere

Thurs 28 May 7.30pm

Visit www.rosestheatre.org to browse The Roses’ complete programme of events, films, live screenings and workshops

01242 578811 07800 840555 or email info@marinades.co.uk info@marinades.co.uk www.marinades.co.uk 56 High Street, Cheltenham GL50 1EE

Don’t forget to book for our monthly

CARIBBEAN TASTER EVENINGS 27 May | 24 June Just £17.95pp BOOK NOW! 46 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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Wine

Enjoy a ‘Grape Escape’ this summer… Standby as the food and drink scene in Cheltenham is about to be changed forever. Fresh and exciting new wine bar, The Grape Escape, will officially open its doors on chic Bath Road this May, 23rd. Laura-Jayne Roberts finds out more Owned by husband and wife team Davies and Zoe Fisher, The Grape Escape has been five years in the planning with the thriving London wine scene having been a great inspiration for the couple, who want to share their passion for everything wine. Anthony said: “We have seen a plethora of new wine bars opening, almost one a week in London. Now we are aiming to complement Cheltenham’s thriving food and drink scene with our new venture.” At The Grape Escape the ‘by the glass’ wine list will change weekly but will always ensure a diverse choice of fizz, whites and reds as well as a sweet wine. Alternatively, customers can select a bottle from the full wine list, which features over 200 bottles from 17 countries! Anthony explained: “We want to give our customers the opportunity to try something different and interesting every time they come and visit.” Zoe sums up the passion behind the project perfectly: “Wine is so versatile. You can choose a bottle to share with friends as part of a sociable evening, or take an hour to enjoy your own company and a glass selected just for you. You can brighten up a grey day with something that transports you to a brighter time and place, or you can pop the cork on a special bottle to mark an important occasion. And of course it tastes amazing!” If that has whet your appetite, here are a few tips from the team behind The Grape Escape to help you make the best wine choices for the summer festival season; “When the sun comes out there are few drinks better suited to the outdoors than a glass of Rosé. The pink stuff comes in so many forms, from a dry and refreshing classic from Provence to a vibrant fruit-driven number from the new world. However, our pick of the bunch comes from much closer to home; we think the strawberry sherbet explosion you get from Devon’s Sharpham Whole Berry Rosé will leave you in no doubt that English wine is a great option. “There are so many white wines we could pick for the long sunny days ahead such as a citrus-drenched Godello from Spain or a fruitsalad-packed Vermentino from South Australia. But our favourite white wine for the summer just has to be Riesling. The grape

Zoe Fisher and Anthony Davies

“....You can brighten up a grey day with something that transports you to a brighter time and place, or you can pop the cork on a special bottle to mark an important occasion. And of course it tastes amazing!” produces such a varied style of wine that if you still think it’s a naff 80’s drink it’s time to forget everything you think you know; Riesling is what the cool kids in the wine trade are drinking! Look for ‘Kabinett’ on the label for a thrilling balance of acidity and just a hint of sweetness. Schloss Johannisberg Riesling Kabinett Trocken is one of our very favourites. Riesling is being made all of over the world these days so for a burst of adult lime-juice head straight for Western Australia and give Larry Cherubino’s Ad-Hoc Riesling a chance. “Finally, if you’re a red wine fan be prepared to come out of your comfort zone. Chilled red isn’t as crazy as it sounds; if you visit the Rhône or the Loire in July or August then don’t be surprised if this is how your wine is served. The spicy Grenache-based Cotes du Rhone wines are surprisingly refreshing after ten minutes in the fridge and Aldi’s Exquisite Collection Cote du Rhone is

amazing value. Or for something even lighter, try an earthy Cabernet Franc from the Loire. Our favourites come from Chinon and we absolutely love Domaine Couly-Dutheil’s Chinon 'les Gravières.’” The Grape Escape, will of course, will be selling most of these wines and many more this summer. If you’re ready to try something different and discover some new favourites, then head down to the cool new wine bar and merchant at 10 Bath Road, where every glass tells a story... The Grape Escape, 10 Bath Road, Cheltenham, GL53 7HA www.thecheltenhamgrape.com

COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 47

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Carpet Emporium is truly a family business run by Don D’Ambrosio along with his wife Mary and cousin John who have successfully built up a carpet business with a ‘difference’. We are not your normal carpet business with just lots of pattern books or samples to choose from, we actually probably stock more carpet rolls and large room sized remnants than other carpet business in Gloucestershire. When people think of a carpet remnant they think of a small piece suitable for a small bedroom, but the remnants we stock are big enough to carpet several rooms.

the difference is...

WHY CARPET REMNANTS? We also stock full rolls which will carpet a complete house. Many of these offer our customers a discount of up to 50% off normal retail prices. All remnants are perfect we do not sell factory seconds. We offer budget priced remnants to top quality 80% Wool Twist and 100% Wool Berbers, we also have many wool carpets that are now mothproof. If you cannot find what you are looking for in our extensive stock selection of over 250 rolls, we also have over 500 samples of carpets and rugs from all leading carpet manufactures in the UK and Europe. RUGS We also carry a huge range of rugs all from stock from bargain priced polypropylenes to 100% Wool Natural, plains and patterned. Many of the rugs stocked are discontinued lines which represent a big saving on normal prices. VINYLS Over 250 designs and styles of top quality vinyls available, from marble, wood, tile effect and many contemporary designs. DIVAN BEDS & MATTRESSES We have a large selection of different quality mattresses from budget priced open coil, to high quality 3000 pocket sprung, and also superb quality natural latex options. All beds and mattresses can be delivered direct from stock. WHY PURCHASE FROM CARPET EMPORIUM Carpet Emporium aim to make your carpet buying experience as easy as possible, we offer a measuring and planning service free of charge. We have experienced carpet fitters which we can fully recommend or we can deliver carpets direct to your premises for your own fitter to install. We have been providing flooring and rugs in the Cheltenham area for over 35 years.

Customer satisfaction is crucial to our business and we will always endeavour to bring our customer the best service and most competitive prices we possibly can.

01242 22 88 55

Give us a try before you buy we GUARANTEE value for money!

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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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000 Clive Burling May 15:Layout 1

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Interiors

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be bored with your boards any more! Clive Burling restores your wooden flooring I've had some fantastic comments from readers of my article last month. If you missed it the subject was 'Chromophobia' (the fear of colour) and I asked the question, 'where has all the colour gone?' I was particularly pleased to notice how quickly the Cheltenham highways department had acted on this and adorned the streets with the brightest yellow lines I have ever seen, not just the ones that deter parking but also all those beautifully sprayed circles around the biggest potholes. It has certainly brightened up our town, although I'm not sure any Chromophobes would agree, or too many motorists either for that matter! However, I digress. There are obviously many ways a home can be transformed with a little thought and some well-chosen colours. Kitchens particularly, all types of furniture, bookshelves, mirrors, tables and chairs can all be given a completely new lease of life. When I've finished painting something, whether it's an item of furniture or whole kitchen, I want it to look like it has always been that way and not newly painted. Quite often feedback from my clients will include comments such as "my husband didn't even notice it for 3 days". This to me is the ultimate compliment. A recently painted piece should not look like it was done yesterday; it should fit in and be 'part of the family.' That's what I really love about the painted look. Done well,

sympathetically and with thought, it fits in absolutely anywhere, with any kind of decor. There is one part of my work, however, that never fails to have an immediate and very noticeable effect on everyone. In design parlance I suppose it's called the 'Wow factor'. The massive difference made to the look and feel of any room, hallway or staircase when dreary old pine or dark stained floorboards are painted never ceases to amaze me. It can lift any room, make it lighter, darker, feel bigger, smaller, warmer, cooler, separate pieces of furniture from each other, give everything space. Whatever the desired effect, it can be achieved surprisingly easily and without too much expense with the right choice of colour and a few hours effort. There are many reasons a lot of people put up with the rather dreary dark and heavily lacquered finish (or worse still the dark orange pine), of their floorboards is that it seems a rather 'drastic' solution to paint them. There's also a great deal of confusion when it comes to what kind of paint should be used, the limited colours of so called 'floor paint' available and how to go about the task in the first place! What tends to happen is that we just put up with it. We like having those beautiful old floorboards exposed but end up covering them up with rugs in an attempt to brighten the place up a bit. My advice is don't be shy of them anymore, don't put up with them or tempted to cover them in carpet if you don't want to. Get them painted. You'll be amazed what effect it can have. I've never had a call from a client saying nobody has noticed the floorboards have been painted. Quite the opposite! So, whether you want to brighten up the bathroom, warm up a living room or make a dining room look 'cool', it can be done. There are so many really good, tough, hardwearing, clear floor sealers available, which are easy to use and won't smell the house out for weeks. This means that I can use almost any kind of paint on a floor or staircase and therefore the choice of colours is practically unlimited. So be brave, brighten up those dark corners,

make the most of your bare boards and stop covering them up, you'll love it. If you experience any resistance from other members of the family try what one lovely client of mine did. Having decided to paint the pine floorboards in her bathroom, she was having trouble convincing her husband that this was a good idea. I suggested we paint a small area around the toilet, big enough for him to see while he was contemplating the meaning of life one morning. Sure enough, a few days later she got the go ahead! Not only that but a week or two later I had painted not only the bathroom floor but two bedroom floors as well. There will be more details on floor painting in the next issue but if you want to get started now on those old boards and simply can't wait, don't hesitate to get in touch. Tel : 07788257914 clive.burling@gmail.com

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Interiors

Third Floor Designs New Home Interior Designer Kelly James talks through the transformed interiors in Formal House PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHADOWPLAY

Last month’s article was showing the initial stages of an agencies interior design and now the project has come to fruition. The design at Formal House has taken 3 months from concept to completion and we have worked very closely with Third Floor Design’s owner James Cowdale. Our design brief was to create an industrial and quirky style to accommodate a production team and host client meetings and presentations – this was to be their creative platform to build and pitch their ideas. The space needed to be both visually pleasing and practical which required planning for the right layout and desktop finishes so light did not reflect on to computer screens. We also needed to make sure the team had plenty of storage to house items out of view whilst maintaining the creative feel with having design books and client products on display. This project gave us the luxury of purchasing everything we needed so everything matched our industrial style. Up cycling and keeping the history of the building was also very important, established in 1886 and revived in 2015 these touches show the respect of the transformation of the building. Some of the purchases and up cycling were: Charles Eames soft padded office chairs gives comfort but the

uniformity looks stylish. Oversized salvage lighting was shipped from Europe and restored to hang over the client meeting table. Wall lights were commissioned to sit on exposed conduit. Metal frames were designed to hold smooth, matt pod work surfaces that easily seat 4; these pods were edged in a bright pop of yellow. OSB storage is practical, doubles up as a sitting area and works within the industrial style. Original slates from Pockets Snooker Club have been up cycled and made into a hot desk/bar area. We commissioned local sign writers to

hand paint ‘Depository No 3’ which was one of the original names for the building – black, white and yellow paints have been used. Watching this traditional sign writing method was a delight and looks amazing!

We use local trades where ever possible and this project has been no exception. Building reliable contacts and suppliers is very important to Shadowplay Design. This has been a fun project to work on and we are proud to have it in our portfolio. James is happy in his new home, he says “it’s already made a huge impact on the team, they are definitely happier here – it just feels more like us”! If you have any questions please contact Kelly on 01242 253700.

COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 53

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Through the Garden Gate... As the days warm up, our media horticulturalist Camilla Bassett-Smith visits a place well known for its winter wonderland but now branching out... olesbourne Park in February, not unlike Yul Brynner’s description of Switzerland in ‘The King and I’, “Land all white with snow”, however this is not February and there are no icy white snowdrops on the ground. It’s May and Colesbourne, known worldwide by Galanthophiles, is about to put trees on the map. With over 300 specimen trees, Colesbourne Park Arboretum is the ‘desres’ of the woodpecker world. Someone once said that behind every great man stands a great woman, well here in Colesbourne behind every great tree stands Sir Henry Elwes, ready with a story to tell. Many involving his great grandfather, the acclaimed plantsman, Henry John Elwes. For example, a cutting of a fine barked Oriental plane was said to have been collected by Henry from the Emperor of China’s tomb in 1901. The resulting tree today proudly displays its dappled bark framing the church behind whilst under the watchful glare of a majestic Wellingtonia, planted in celebration of Henry’s birth in 1874. In fact, Colesbourne is very lucky to still have in their possession planting notes

56 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

from the early days which add so much to the heritage of this great army of wooden soldiers. The writings tell of a Japanese cedar: Cryptomeria japonica, the seedling of which was collected in Japan in 1901 and brought back to Colesbourne on the Trans-Siberian Railway and planted 20 yards from the ice-house, where it stands today, an old hand, like a fine well-travelled gentleman. We also know that a now 148 foot high Populas ‘Eugenei’, cost three shillings and sixpence in 1901! Invaluable records – and why I always keep everything, although agreed, my great grandchildren may not be so interested to learn that I gave £1.09 for my latest box of cheese biscuits! Talking of the 148 foot poplar, this is one of eight listed ‘Champion Trees’ on site. These are trees which are the largest of their species growing within the British Isles and others here include the imposing Lebanon oak - the biggest in the whole country and the poplar ‘Robusta’. As Henry and I tour the grounds, I

really am astonished at the variety of horticultural specimens on show, like a collection of the finest quality Cotswolds chocolate box, overwhelming in the choice you have. Coffee cream? Then why not head to the Kentucky coffee tree – found by settlers in America, the bearer of rather tasty beans on long pods late in the year. Perhaps a caramel? Then Cercidiphyllum japonicum is the one for you, with a smell of burnt sugar and known as ‘the caramel tree’, Henry thinks this is one of the prettiest trees in the garden. Maybe a lime cream? Tilia (Lime) Henryana was found by Augustine Henry who jointly wrote ‘The Trees of Great Britain and Ireland’ in 1906 with Henry’s great grandfather. If however you prefer a nut, you’ll find a good selection with Turkish hazel which Henry is very fond

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Gardening

of and a black walnut to name a few. A tree that I’m particularly taken with is the Staphylea or bladdernut, such beautiful fluffy delicate blossom and unusual seed pods in the autumn and I’m wondering whether the flowers of the weeping white lime really do give you good dreams if you fill your pillows with them as I’ve heard! (Would that cancel out my cheese induced

strange dreams I wonder?). This Arboretum is not just based on the past; planting is constantly taking place as Henry introduces new saplings for generations to come. A relatively recent addition being the Holford Pine Pinus x holfordiana - a most unusual striking pine hybrid which arose locally at Westonbirt. It’s also most encouraging to see the recent planting of a Lutece Elm

– thought to be a disease resistant substitute for our much missed English elm. If this tree takes off, our landscape could gradually be returned to a pre Dutch elm disease state. However, elm or no elm, England’s green and pleasant land is very much alive at Colesbourne Park Arboretum: see for yourself at Open Days on 24th and 25th May and in June. COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 57

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Catania Collection – Chairs, pair £129, bench £159, 8seater table £299, all Made.com. www.made.com. Simple, elegant and very well priced, I don’t think you can go wrong with this new outdoor furniture range from Made.com

Turquoise Glass Ice Cream Sundae Bowl, £7, Denby. www.denby.co.uk. Serve ice cream sundae, sorbet, cocktails, nibbles and more in this vintage-style glass bowl.

INTERIORS STYLE

New Interiors Editor, Emeline Watchorn takes us outdoors

Introducing Interior Designer and Stylist turned ceramicist and artist Emeline Watchorn. Having spent many years working in the interiors industry, Emeline is now an established ceramicist and artist. Unable to resist the pull of her roots in interiors, she has taken on the challenge of providing Cotswold Style readers with fabulous ideas and seasonal tips for their homes.

www.emelinewatchornceramics.com

Hooray for sunny May! Finally we are all coming to life, as well as our gardens, so it’s time to spark up your BBQ and get partying in the garden. In my first ever interiors feature for the fabulous Cotswold Style, I am unearthing some real treasures to set the scene for some great outdoor entertaining in the months ahead. I have searched high and low for some serious bargains and must haves and the odd ‘blow the budget’s’. The look is slick, modern and elegant and I have chosen some rich bronzes and golds off-set against a splash of teal, turquoise and black. So enjoy and get inspired.

Handmade black and white ‘Splatter’ dinner plates, £22, very small ‘Splatter’ bowl, £6, ‘Bronze’ small bowls, £8, small wooden spoons, £2, all by Emeline Watchorn, www.emelinewatchornceramics.com. Hand thrown porcelain Turquoise bowl, £28, aubergine linen napkins, £4, Sarah Field Ceramics, www.sarahfieldceramics.com. Well what can I say about these GORGEOUS handmade ceramics!!! So I am a bit biased – ie. I made some of them, but they will look stunning with all these fabulous products, and trust me, they are original and unique modern classics that will last you a lifetime and are worth the investment.

60 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

Viners Bronze Titanium 16pc Cutlery Set, £79.95, Tabletop. www.tabletoptraders.co.uk, special offer for readers – 5% discount – code ‘cotstyle’. I think this cutlery set is a cut above the rest! Original, warm and well priced, they will add something special to your table.

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Interiors Two Copper Planters, £75, Cox and Cox. www.coxandcox.co.uk. Make an empty corner of the garden come to life with these lovely copper planters.

Hex Teal Cushion, £15, Harlequin Takara Cushion in teal/ink, £40, both John Lewis. www.johnlewis.com Add a splash of colour and comfort with these cushions. They complete the look and again are great value.

Imperial Blue Wine Glass, Imperial Blue Large tumbler, £27 for a set of 4 of either, Denby. www.denby.co.uk. These beautiful glasses will look elegant on any table. The touch of azure blue makes them a little bit special. Bronze Weave Rectangular Dinner Table placemats, £1.99, The Range. www.therange.co.uk. I couldn’t resist adding these as a real bargain!

Pacific Lifestyle Simplicity Vase, £87.42, Wayfair. Wayfair.co.uk Make a statement with these stunning vases. One would make a great centerpiece or push the boat out and have a pair. A couple of long stem flowers – try lilies – will look fantastic in them.

Maroq Light Chain Copper, £24.95, Spotted at notonthehighstreet. Lighting is key to any entertaining and I love fairy lights! This battery operated set can be draped down the middle of your table giving off a flattering and ambient light at dusk and beyond.

Deep Bronze and Black Mirrors, £19, The Forest and Co at nothonthehighstreet.com. I love a mirror in a garden. It can add depth to a small garden or just liven up an entertaining area. I think these are a bargain and because they are deep, you shouldn’t have to worry about wiping watermarks off them. You could even put a little nightlight in them to light them up.

Set of 2 Studded Matt Gold Tealight Holders, £9.50, RockettstGeorge. www.rocketstgeorge.co.uk. Adorable little tealight holders. A must for when the sun goes down.

Sonar Bowls, Large Sonar Bowl (12 inches diameter): £340, Small Sonar Bowl (8 inches diameter): £175, The Sofa and Chair Company. www.thesofaandchair.co.uk. Blow the budget with these stunning bowls. Perfect in any setting, they’ll look amazing as a centerpiece on your table – inside or out.

COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 61

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Cleeve Hill

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Glebelands 62 MAY 2015 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 Relationships with Our Customers. COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 63

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000 Howle Hill May 15:Layout 1

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Gardening

The Magic and Allure of the Chelsea Flower Show Peter Dowle, a Garden designer and plantsman runs a garden design and Landscape business from Howle Hill Nursery, nr Ruardean, Gloucestershire I was eight years old when I was first exposed to the magic of Chelsea. My father Julian Dowle was exhibiting one of his first gardens on the rock garden embankment, titled ‘The Garden of Tranquility’ and it was Monaco Garden, Chelsea Flower Show 2011. Design by Sarah Eberle Howle Hill Nursery here that I witnessed the special spectacle of an hills of Provence and is based around a plant mixes, rock and gravel textures, to the industry that delivered with such pride. Lavoire, which is a traditional, usually open, detailing in tile and wall finishes and potential I recall my first plant name too from that fresh water rectangular pool used by the props. When researching the Immortelle crop visit, Laburnum Vossii and clocked 32 of these villages for washing clothes. It is this for the Corsican L’Occitane Garden, I was beautiful yellow cascading trees from Chelsea connection with Grasse that the perfume keen to reproduce the famous Maquis scent to home in Chislehurst, Kent. To Father’s industry is believed to have originated from. that fills the air throughout Corsica and great delight this garden was awarded a Up to this point in time the town was treasured Gold medal, which in the early 1970’s photographed the Rosemary, Pistachio, renowned for its tanneries together with the Thymes, Corsican mint, Bays and Immortelle was presented in a jewellery-style box and lived non-optional associated smell. It was this growing wild. This in-turn led to an order of in a cabinet in the lounge. It was wonderful to association that led to essential, fragrant oils endemic Corsican plants to be contract grown hold this heavy, now iconic, solid gold medal from aromatic plants such as Lavender, in Corsica, shipped to Paris to be then and dream of future success. Rosemary and Thyme to be added to the water collected and grown-on at a nursery in The Chelsea Flower Show has changed to give clothes a fresh and appealing scent. Valencia, Southern Spain. enormously since the days of self-funded This use of essential oils progressed into the My reward for all of this effort, coordinated nurseries exhibiting their wares in a garden development of perfumes with large areas of by my friend and top grower Dave Root from setting to the present – huge blockbusterthe hilly landscape being used to grow fragrant Kelways, was that I smelt the Immortelle plant budget deliveries that leave you incredulous plants as a crop. delivery before I saw the beauties arrive at that it is displayed only for 5 days. I have been The garden’s Grasse inspiration uses Chelsea. The Immortelle plants (Helichrysum involved with delivering Show Gardens at Osmanthus, Citrus, Olives and figs to provide italicum sub species Corsica) were fabulous Chelsea now for over 25 years – involved with structure and a wonderful mix of smaller and just breaking flower. This batch together 7 Gold medal gardens with my Father’s fragrant, oil-providing plants, including with seven other plant varieties, were business and 9 with my own, including a Lavender, Paeonies, Iris and Roses. The propagated from Corsican stock and all made Gold medal design for the L’Occitane garden’s corporate message promotes Chelsea Flower Show debuts! As a plantsman garden in 2012. L’Occitane’s perfume credentials, a market this is really exciting and Jekka McVicar, from The real attraction as a plantsman and which they have exploded onto and are Jekka’s Herb Farm, still grows a variety of garden designer is that the Chelsea Flower continuing to grow worldwide. It is their Corsican Cotton Lavender (Santolina incana Show phenomenon challenges you to take on natural approach using plant-based oils in sub sp Corsica) at her herbarium or projects that push you to research and learn which has led to their success in this market. ‘Herberetum’ near Yate. new aspects of Horticulture. I have been It will be an interesting and once again For 2015 we are delivering a large show fortunate enough to travel the world in pursuit completely unique Show garden experience, garden for L’Occitane once again, our third of knowledge – to photograph Hemerocallis project for the skin and beauty-care giant, titled delivering another story - this time with an on the volcanic plateaus of Northern Honshu eclectic mix of fragrant plants. ‘The Perfumer’s Garden’. It is being led by in Japan to selecting a 100-year Scots pine for Monaco-based designer James Basson and extraction from a Larvikite quarry in Southern follows a Gold Medal and Best In Show Norway. (This specimen, sitting on an 8.5 www.howlehillnursery.co.uk tonne slab of rock, is flourishing in our nursery category garden we worked on with him in Tel: 01989 567726 2013. at Howle Hill, near Ross-onWye 5 years later!) The garden is inspired by the Perfume Each project requires direct field trip The Chelsea Flower Show runs from 19th – capital of the world Grasse, deep in the rolling observations to ensure you get the correct 23rd May, ticket details via the RHS website. COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 65

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KENYA

IN SEARCH OF THE BIG SIX enya is the original home of the safari and in my opinion is the most romantic of all African countries. This was my first ever experience of the continent, encounter with African wildlife and the magic found here. It was love at first sight, smell and sound. Kenya is a place of legend where proud warrior tribes blend with the names of intrepid explorers of a bygone era and where chic colonial homesteads ensure the allure of the country is truly enduring. The beauty and diversity of Kenya’s landscapes with their never-ending horizons are one of its greatest highlights and when combined with the extraordinary game viewing in parks such as the Masai Mara, Samburu, Amboseli or Laikipia, it is easy to see why the country remains so popular and engaging. Sleeping under canvas in exclusive tented camps, staying in privately owned bush homesteads in the remote wilderness or merely lounging in a hammock on the powder white beaches of the coast, Kenya’s appeal is unique. My trip to Kenya was a whirlwind of adventure beginning with a sensational hike through the equatorial forests and Jurassic flora and fauna around the foothills of Mt Kenya. The hike culminated in the thrill of climbing ‘Kirinyaga’ the mountain of whiteness, to the summit of Kenya’s snow-capped highest peak (5,248m or 17,058 ft). Following the ‘high’ of the climb I travelled overland far North towards Ethiopia and through the blistering heat of the vast arid northern desert in the hope of palaeontological discovery. The shimmering mirage of the turquoise Jade Sea, better known as Lake Turkana, sky rocketed into view through the haze. It was a thrill to plunge into the lake’s cooling waters sending small Nile Crocodiles plunging for the depths! One of the primary reasons for visiting this area was to fulfil an anthropological ambition to visit the cradle of humankind, with its

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Self-professed adventuress Lucy Garbutt journeyed to East Africa in search of Africa’s safari tiara and remains enchanted forever by the ultimate ‘Out of Africa’ experience

A fantastic way to explore the wild, rugged bushland and get close to the wildlife is on a camel safari

Male African Lion

abundance of hominid fossils and the site where a 1.6 million year old complete Homo erectus skeleton was discovered. An unforgettable part of the itinerary was a four day camel safari through part of the Great Rift Valley, following the sandy

Maasai tribal dance

flow of dried up river beds. We spent the evenings feasting on delicious local ingredients conjured into appetising meals over campfires and dancing to the drum rhythms of the ‘jumping dance’ with our Masai guides and sleeping out in the open

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Travel

Saruni Mara

Mt Kenya

under the stars and most magical night sky. The anticipation of big game spotting was mounting but first yet another of Kenya’s sights presented itself at Lake Naivasha as every imaginable exotic water bird, together with a pink cloudy vision of thousands of flamingos covered the surface of the water. Finally, the day of my first ever game drive had arrived – I was at The Laikipia Plateau. The Reserve covers more than two million acres of wilderness with habitats ranging from dusty plains to verdant grasslands and rocky hills and watered by two great rivers, the area offers some wonderful big game viewing all under the steely gaze of the snow-capped Mt Kenya. With adrenalin surging at the anticipation of spotting the ‘Big Five’, the open sided Landrover set off to roam the sweeping plains and gorges teeming with game. The ever changing view from the vehicle brought increasing levels of

excitement as buffalo, gazelle, Grevy’s Zebra, lion, oryx, gerenuk, ostrich, hartebeest and rhino were spotted. Elephants foraged amongst dense clumps of palm and a family of wart hog frisked around an isolated watering hole. At sunset more predators appeared with a leopard padding through the bush on a hunting mission. I had hoped to see the endangered wild dog – but maybe next time! In a perfect world my next visit to Kenya will combine three life-long dreams all of which are ‘must do before I die’ experiences. The first is to travel by hot air balloon over the Masai Mara and marvel at the wildebeest migration in full flow. The second is to head off into the wilderness on horseback and gallop across one of the country’s rugged savannahs teeming with big game. However, the third and most yearned for is to meet the sixth member of the ‘big six’ the mountain gorilla which

is accessible via a short air hop to neighbouring Rwanda for what is surely the world’s most compelling wildlife experience of all … to hike through the lush rainforests of the Virunga Volcanoes to track and meet our closest cousin, the mountain gorilla, in his natural environment. If you would like to visit Africa for some grit, glamour or both, itineraries can be tailormade for you by World Odyssey – for more information on anything to do with Kenya, Rwanda or anywhere on the planet, please visit www.worldodyssey.com – follow us @World_Odyssey and/or Facebook or call one of our travel specialists for advice on: 01905 731373.

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Coffee Break

ASTAWAY Antonio Carluccio is the Godfather of Italian gastronomy. Famed for his award winning chain of namesake restaurants, Antonio’s menus champion the finest, freshest ingredients and bring a taste of Italy to high streets across the country. Carluccio’s was born in Covent Garden and was also the professional birthplace of Jamie Oliver. Today Antonio’s restaurants are loved by discerning foodies and families alike. Our columnist Ellie Mainwaring caught up with Antonio, ahead of his latest restaurant opening set to take Cheltenham by storm later this month. Where in the world would you choose to be castaway to and why?

It would certainly have to be somewhere by the coast – sunny, sandy, with plenty of seafood and a bounty of natural produce available. Anywhere that is away from the crowds and is peaceful and tranquil. What item of jewellery or accessory would you take?

A compass, so that I could explore the surrounding area and always find my way back home. I would relish wandering the area, wherever that may be, and discovering new hidden spots. You can take the entire works of one musician to your desert island – who would it be?

The Russian master composer, Peter Tchaikovsky. Classical music is perfect seasoning for cooking to: it’s the great match of the drama of the music and the theatre of cooking. Tchaikovsky’s colourful music is enchanting and would provide the perfect soundtrack in my castaway destination. My dearly departed dog Jan, a Picardy Shepherd. I loved her dearly and she was a true companion. I couldn’t imagine the long hours ahead of me without her by my side. What pet would you take?

“Classical music is perfect seasoning for cooking to: it’s the great match of the drama of the music and the theatre of cooking.”

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

I would take my set of knives for whittling. I’d wile away the long hours turning my cooking skills to crafting magnificent sculptures from the wood foraged while exploring.

I would leave behind the legacy in all my cookbooks. This way my family and friends could still enjoy the food we once shared together and reminisce about good times. A pashmina, not only as a scarf, but for warmth and comfort in case it gets cold. What would be your luxury item?

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

Spaghettini al pomodoro e basilica. Quite simply, a plate of spaghetti with tomato sauce and fresh basil. This dish is a prime example of my cookery mantra – minimum fuss, maximum flavour – the ingredients speak for themselves. Antonio Carluccio is to bring his award winning restaurant chain to Cheltenham, opening in the Regent Arcade in May. www.carluccios.com

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Competition

GET READY FOR SUMMER WITH

WIN IPL Hair removal treatments to the value of £500 With summer just around the corner have you started to plan your vacation yet? Does the thought of baring your pale flesh on the beach fill you with horror? You are not alone! At The Enhance Medical Centre, we can take the stress out of the holiday planning. Fed up with package holidays? We have the package to ease you on to the beach. With our medical experience we will also be able to advise you on sun care and protection to ensure that you will have a safe sunshine holiday. How about a shapelier body, smooth bikini line and armpits and a tan to die for? For the man in your life; a hair-free back, shoulders and a sexy tan? Fed up with returning to ‘Blighty’ with those tell-tale white squint lines from frowning in the sun? Why not let us remove

those lines before you go with Botox, Dermal fillers or freshen and rid yourself of that dull winter complexion with a course of Medical Microdermabrasion. Want to be free of those unsightly in grown hairs? Why not book a course of the pain-free, non-invasive, highly effective IPL hair removal? Starting your holiday work up in plenty of time means less stress and more confidence on the beach.

Some of the treatments we offer have instant results but for others such as Botox, thread vein removal and Intense Pulsed Light hair removal, a number of weeks is required to see the full benefit and in some cases a course of treatment. Want to look like the ultimate beach babe and feel fantastic; oozing with self-confidence? Then don’t feel self-conscious, call The Enhance Medical Centre where you will be treated with total confidence and professionalism at all times by highly experienced and qualified medical staff. No obligation, don’t delay; don’t leave it too late to benefit from our individual Summer Specials in time for your vacation. www.enhancemedical.co.uk or 01242 221999

WHY GO SECOND CLASS? GO FIRST WITH THE ENHANCE MEDICAL CENTRE. YOU DESERVE IT! To have the chance of winnning IPL Hair removal treatments to the value of £500 (non transferable –T&C’s apply) simply email your contact details to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk Competition closes on 31st May 2015

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Culture

Cotswolds Culture Columnist Susan Blanchfield takes us on a tour of Cotswolds Festivals

The South Americans may have the Rio Carnival and Germans their Beer Festivals but no-one quite exploits the breadth of festival frolics like the British. From events that celebrate the cucumber and asparagus through to the Festival of Speed, Glasto, Cornbury and even the Festival of the Spoken Nerd, our creative spirit and island individualism is evident. A significant proportion of our traditional Festivals that have their roots in Britain’s rather complex history are centuries old and involve an inordinate number of maypoles as well as some intriguing sounding names; ‘Helly Ag’ in Shetland for example, as well as ‘Nutters Dance’ in Bidcup, Lancashire. Then there is the oldest dance festival in England held in Padstow called the ’Obby Oss’ which involves a maypole or two and ends with a trip to the pub – rather curiously known for the purposes of the festival as ‘the stable’. And there we must leave any further line of enquiry. The Contemporary version of the Festival gathered momentum when the post war government held the first “Festival of Britain 1951”, with the intention of buoying up spirits in a deflated and depressed economy. The British festival scene has boomed ever since, meaning that there are now few niches not catered for; you can attend talks on astrophysics, listen to open air classical concerts, participate in extreme sports and even dress up as a giant carrot; the latter option looking increasingly more appealing as a possible antidote to the mind-numbing monotony of the recent Jeremey Kyle style election race debacle. As Festivals gained in popularity they evolved to keep pace with cultural expectations. Accommodation, always a firm marker to changing tastes and social aspirations has most definitely seen the biggest revolution. Why stomp grimly around, negotiating rivers of mud and hundreds of unwashed armpits in a vain attempt to seek out a working loo when you can hire a smart bell ‘luxe’ tent that boasts 300 count sheets, private bathroom and smart toiletries? Or

Status Quo will be appearing at Lechlade Music

Festival

maybe you feel like a VIP upgrade to the rather suspect sounding ‘Octopad’ with (presumably), 400 count sheets and even swankier toiletries? Additional ancillary accommodation for staff will surely follow. Meanwhile back in the ‘Wolds there is a definite festival buzz in the air. Lovers of the classical should head to the HELLENSMUSIC Festival at Much Marcle from 7-10 May. Celebrated pianist Christian Blackshaw will join musicians from the Berlin Philharmonic, the Leipzig Gewandhaus Orchestra and the Royal Scottish National Orchestra and audiences can enjoy a picnic in the beautiful gardens or attend various free masterclasses. If a broader spectrum of events over a few days is more your style, visit the charming town of Winchcombe between the 18th and 25th of May to sample a varied programme of music, poetry, art, sculpture and workshops artfully arranged in and around the town. Over in Lechlade, the legendary Status Quo and Dr and the Medics are the headliners for the three-day festival that kicks off on 22 May. As well as over 60 musical acts, the diverse range of workshops such as story-telling, dancing, singing and drumming and crafts will keep families entertained and it is worth noting that Lechlade offers smart bell tent accommodation in addition to their healing garden where you can order up a soothing massage after your African dance master class. Gloucestershire continues to attract international interest and the Cheese Rolling on 26 May is ever controversial. The premise of the festival is best described by the admiring Sydney Herald as ‘20 young men chasing a cheese off a cliff and then being

PHOTO: DANNY CLIFFORD

FESTIVAL REPUBLIC

scraped off the floor by paramedics and taken to hospital’. Adrenalin junkie appeal aside, it is best experienced as an observer rather than participant. Wonderful Wychwood Festival runs a weekend event at Cheltenham Racecourse from 29th May. It’s compact and bijou size enables it to retain a relaxed, cosy, family feel that resonates with young families. Boney M, The Proclaimers, The Undertones and UB40 provide the headline piece and are ably backed up by over the three days by diverse musical talent. Like Lechlade, Wychwood offers a fantastic range of activities for children and adults to get stuck into aside from the music and if you can’t make the entire weekend there are flexible ticket options. Finally, the international stars of Science descend on Cheltenham for the 2015 Festival from 2-7 June. Amongst many others, the big hitters Steve Backshall, Brian Cox, Robert Winston and Alice Roberts guest and the DeLorean ‘Back to the Future’ car sparks off the time travel theme. The biggest star of all however, will be the 8 m long skeleton of a ‘Gorgosaurus’ on display in the interactive free ‘Dinozone’. Space and Dinos are major themes for 2015 and the festival stays true to its exceptionally diverse programme with an extraordinary range of events for all ages and taste; from whisky tasting to mindfulness through to talks on Mars and topical debates on advances in modern healthcare. Right now, after all the political manoeuvring we need a good Festival; Dance, Music, Art and Science – there is a feast of action here for everyone. And not a maypole in sight. Susan Blanchfield is a Patron and Trustee of Cheltenham Festivals; she is a postgraduate doctoral researcher at the University of Gloucestershire and has a life long passion for the Arts in Education. Please contact Susan at: editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

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Cotswoldia

Cotswoldia New Columnist, Angela Chancellor’s Guide to Hedge Fund Heaven Spring is here and summer is around the corner. The countryside is awash with daffodils, the trees are starting to go green, the adolescent male can already be seen in shorts and flip flops with blue feet (the sun is shining after all!), there is plenty of rosé in the fridge and here in the Cotswolds, the hedge funders have returned from their winter migration. Yes, it’s that time of year when all the smartest and most manicured homes in the Cotswolds awake from their winter slumber. Verbier has closed the ski season and those late nights at the Farm Club have worn thin. There’s not much to shoot at this time of year and the wife finds all that tweed a tad dull after a while. It’s a bit early for St. Tropez - a bit nippy and not as much fun in a jumper, as at least half the pleasure after all is the fabulous clothes, to go with the fabulous houses, fabulous cars, fabulous restaurants and just general fabulousness all round. St. Barth’s is always lovely, great for topping up the tan and a bit of celebrity spotting, oh and ogling Spencer Matthews. There are a good few weeks before Ibiza kicks off at the end of May, although some would say preseason is the best time to go before the traffic jams kick in but hedgies are not known for subtlety when bling is so much more fun! At this time of year the British hedge funder is now yearning for a bit of hedgerow. A short hop from Mayfair to Paddington and not too long on the train and voila: gently rolling hills and lots of honey coloured loveliness, which ever way you look. You would be hard pressed to find another part of the country with so many pretty villages dotted all over, even the nit count on my son’s head would struggle to keep up. So once you have banked your hard earned (I am reliably informed), fat city bonus or maybe you’ve sold your company because it’s time to have some fun, you get to thinking: I fancy a bit of that. Where do you start?

Once you get past Oxford, the race is on because you had better get a move on. A pretty house with 5 beds and up, mature gardens, maybe even a pool/tennis court/bit of orchard and ideally in, or near a popular village and definitely near a good pub is hard to find. Very hard to find (much sucking of teeth here); be prepared for a long wait, two years minimum and often longer as far as anyone I have ever spoken to is concerned. Obviously it helps if you’ve really got an obscene amount of wonga, which generally helps with most things but here in Cotswoldia knowing the right people at the right Estate Agents is more likely to put you at the front of the queue. Once you have decided that a honey coloured estate/manor house/rectory is what you’re dreaming of, or maybe a newly pimped barn will do if you can’t wait that long, you will have to decide where in the land of honey coloured loveliness you want to be. If the Cotswolds were a menu and the villages were dishes on this menu, we would be going in to several pages. Even Gordon Ramsay wouldn’t know where to start with this one and this is a small publication so more another time. Once you have your lovely house you will want to go to a great pub. Plenty of posh newly converted inns around here. Our favourites are definitely anything by the Pearman’s (The Wheatsheaf, Northleach; The Chequers, Churchill) or the Orr-Ewing's (The Swan, Swinbrook; The King’s Head, Bledington) or the Brentnall’s (The Bell Inn,

Langford) and you can always try your luck with a bit of Kate Moss spotting at The Swan at Southrop or the Five Alls at Filkens. There are soooo many more but we are running out of space and I am not AA Gill! Finally if you want to convey that you have ‘arrived’, you should of course roll up at said pub (you may graduate to smart dinner parties later), in a spectacular car. If you want your car to be as new as your money, it’s a no-brainer; off to Broughtons in Cheltenham you go for your sparkly new Bentley or Aston. If that’s your thing and maybe you’re not quite ready to spend half your life in wellies, Cheltenham has not only smart cars but probably the highest concentration of good schools in the country and don’t forget to pop in to 131 or Lily Gins to show off some of your dosh. If you haven’t settled for a posh new barn and have chosen something with a bit more age and character, maybe even a cellar for the wine you hope to serve at those smart dinner parties, you might be looking for a motor that’s a bit less obvious, something only your peers will truly recognise for what it is. Then Martin Chisholm is your man (ex Sotheby’s and Christies). He curates collections internationally and specialises in finding the cars that don’t ever make it to market because much like the best Cotswold houses, you have to know how to find them, or at the very least he will make sure you get something that really works for you and isn’t just like that pair of expensive designer shoes that have plenty of pizzazz but were never that comfortable. He will even tuck it up for the winter for you if you haven’t been able to stretch to a house with enough outbuildings or couldn’t be bothered to wait, or simply prefer to delegate. Got to dash now, beach body requires work...

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• Award Winning • Bridal

• Editorial

• Fashion

• Catwalk • Proms

• Hen Parties

• Makeup Lessons

www.booloumakeup.co.uk | lucy@booloumakeup.co.uk Phone or Text: 07907 483056

BooLou Makeup |Professional Makeup Artist Booloumakeup

74 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

Style Event

Blaise and Debs Dyer

Bex Collier, Louisa Gilbert, Ellie Workm an, Heather Turbett and Kylie Russell

Lucy Garbutt and Emma Logan

London showcase for Cowley Manor Cowley Manor hosted a stunning Hou se Party, showcasing to London based events companies what the hotel and spa has to offer. Guests enjoyed cocktails and canapĂŠs around the pool followed by live music and a delicious dinner, before dancing the night awa y. Photography by Angus Bethune

Victoria Hamilton, Endellion King and Hannah Tapper

Claire Greenwell and Lauren Morrice

Sarah Wilson, Sarah Barnes and Geral dine Taylor Cecilia Young, Cheryl Brunwin and Jas McLennan

ah Cockill Ryan Preston, Justin Loriquer and Hann

n Jackie Dockreay,and Barnaby Luxto

Karen Wallworth, Dan Sweet and Penny Banyard Gabbi Weston, Andy Boardman, Sue Heritage and Laura Popperwell

Jemima Buckley and Lucy Button KB and Emma Logan

Hasan and Catherine Artik with Angle

Mason and Stephen Schiller

Mark Coyle and Mark Broadbank

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Lower Ground Floor, 105 The Promenade, GL50 1NW

01242 530 598 www.lauraleighhairdressing.co.uk

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Hair

HEAVENLY HOLIDAY HAIR Laura Leigh gives us her top tips on protecting your hair on holiday

Chlorine is a chemical disinfectant added to the water in many swimming pools. Short, occasional exposure to chlorinated water really won’t damage your hair, however it may make it feel dry for a day or so. If though, you are planning a holiday this summer and plan to swim most days, the chlorine can cause significant damage. Our scalps naturally produce oil to protect us from damage and daily wear and stripping the oil from your hair in a pool on a regular basis can cause over drying, increased porosity, and in some cases pretty significant damage, if you don’t take steps to prevent and treat your hair for chlorine exposure. I’m constantly asked, ‘will chlorine turn my hair green?’ While it’s true that chlorine is a greenish yellow colour, it doesn’t turn your hair green. Dry, porous hair (especially hair that has been chemically lightened or highlighted and is more likely to be damaged by chlorine exposure), is more likely to absorb chemicals and dis-coloration. You can do a few things immediately before and after you hit the pool to prevent chlorine from damaging your beautiful locks: Before you enter the pool, rinse your hair

with clean tap water to saturate it. Have you ever noticed that a sponge will only absorb so much water, and once it’s full the water just runs off? Your hair is similar to a sponge. If you saturate your hair with clean tap water, your hair will be less likely to absorb as much of the chlorinated water in the pool. If you’re doing a lot of swimming or are concerned about damage, a swim cap can make a world of difference. Before putting your cap on, again saturate your hair with clean water and apply a light conditioner. You may not look very cool but your hair will look cracking afterwards! Just like you use SPF on your face and body, you should also be using protective products on your hair. I would recommend using the Kerastase Soleil range, which is the ultimate sun care protection. The shampoo is a nourishing bath with UV filters to protect, repair and beautify hair exposed to the sun. Available in-salon for £16.50. The aqua seal is a shine enhancing spray with UV filters for sensitized hair, to protect against

sun, salt and chlorinated water. Available insalon for £20.50. The CC crème is a unique leave in sunscreen, with UV filters and linseed oil and is suitable for all hair types. Available in-salon for £20.50. The ultimate indulgence and post holiday hair treat is the Soleil Masque UV Defense Active. An amazing anti damage masque with UV filters, perfect for colour treated and sun exposed hair, this treatment will leave your hair feeling nourished, protected and more resistant to the effects of the sun. Take a tangle teezer out to the pool with you as hair can become very knotted when in and out of the water, so to prevent further damage, brush your hair throughout the day. Wear a hat when sunbathing or wrap your hair in a towel as this will help to protect your hair from the sun, and to prevent colour fade. For more advice on caring for your hair this summer call and book a complimentary consultation - 01242 530598.

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

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Mind, Body & Soul We discover some of the new, sensational treatments or products available in the Cotswolds, to recuperate your mind, body and soul The Malvern Spa Hotel – Yvette Brentnall & Tracy Doughty If you’re looking for an oasis in a frantic world the Malvern Spa Hotel, sat on the foothills of Malvern is definitely the place to stay. Situated, surprisingly, in the midst of a retail park on the Grosvenor Road, it wasn’t quite the location one had expected but don’t be put off … once inside the glass doors we were transported into the ultimate in health, beauty and relaxation indulgence. Under the watchful eye of Laura Holmes the spa manageress we feel the hotel spa is one of the best in the country with the standard of therapists totally professional and consistent. The spa’s products are mainly 'Elemis', a product developed and tailor made to tackle personal problematic issues. After being greeted and showed round by the helpful receptionist we headed off to relax in the spa lounge looking very glamorous in the complimentary fluffy white robe and flip-flops. The authentic olive trees add an air of the Mediterranean and with the sun streaming in through the atrium roof, we could easily have been on a Greek island. It was essential at this point to have some well-needed refreshments and even at 11am, it was no trouble to the staff to serve us a bottle of ice-cold champers. The first therapy session was with the lovely Viola. The treatment began with light body brushing and exfoliation and was followed by an indulgent massage using nourishing essential oils and last but not least, a soothing head massage and gentle stretching. This 90-minute treatment was heaven and honestly one of the best ever experienced as one is left drifting into oblivion with skin feeling like silk. Lunch in the bistro was delightful with smoked mackerel and salad, polished off with a chilled Sauvignon. It was then off for an Elemis Pro-Collagen Quartz Lift facial with specialist lifting massage by the charming Charlotte. This treatment is 70 78 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

The Malvern Spa Hotel

minutes of bliss and it is clinically proven to reduce the number of wrinkles by 94% after only one treatment. A course of four is recommended with one treatment every 3 weeks. An immediate difference was noticed with a glowing face that seemed firmer and plumper. More of these are definitely to be had. Following treatments, you are taken to the relaxation room with dim lights, soft music and warm cosy blankets to lie on. If it had not been for some alarming snoring this would have been the perfect end to the day! There are 32 contemporary boutique style bedrooms with Elemis products to use (sadly no mini bar!). The beds are extremely comfortable and modern if a little cosy. Room tip: some rooms have views of the Malvern Hills - it is worth requesting one if available. Joining friends for dinner we found the bar and restaurant most pleasant and the staff very accommodating. The a la carte menu has a good selection of meat, fish and vegetarian options as well as divine puddings and an excellent cheese board to undo all the good work in the spa. Breakfast the following morning was equally good – we noted that 6 whole oranges are used to make the moreish freshly squeezed juice.

The final treatments were with a lovely therapist Rachel, a duel pedicure and manicure to be completely pampered and spoiled … if not a little dehydrated but that was ones own doing … Would we return? Absolutely – we are already planning a pregnancy package stay. Thankfully it’s not actually us who are with child! Malvern with its literature history, tea houses and quirky shops is a town well worth visiting and of course the delightful hills to roam if you have the energy ... We’ll be watching you from the pool. The Malvern Spa Grovewood Road, Malvern Worcestershire, WR14 1GD www.themalvernspa.com

Pure Body Balance – Emma Logan Nestled halfway in the Churn Valley, between Cheltenham and Cirencester, a

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Health To start the summer body preparation in this spring sunshine, there are two wonderful products that we have recently discovered: South Seas Spray Tan, by Josspa in Cheltenham

Pure Body Balance

delightful new wellness centre has recently opened; Pure Body Balance situated on the Marsden Estate. The centre is the brainchild of Karen Maidment whom I discovered a couple of years ago after writing a brilliant cookery book, Meals That Heal. Over 100 recipes that are gluten, grain, dairy and processed sugar free, the book inspired me to change my eating habits and introduced me to some super new ingredients that enabled me to make healthy recipes such as Gluten Free Sundried Tomato, Caramelised Red Onion and Sweet Potato Flatbreads, Beetroot Homous and Slow-cooked Buffalo Meat Bolognese. It really is worth purchasing if you are looking for some lifestyle changes and it equally helps to shift a few of those unwanted layers around the middle! Pure Body Balance is an extended continuation of Karen’s philosophy to create a healthy lifestyle. Integrated therapies are used to treat the person not the health challenge preventing and resolving symptoms

of ill health at its root cause. There is a team of highly qualified practitioners working from the centre covering all aspects of wellbeing from Functional Laboratory Testing (Allergy, Gut, Adrenal, Immune, Detoxification) to Reiki, Acupuncture, Sports Massage and Meditation Classes and Workshops. Karen regularly runs cookery workshops and yoga retreats and is also planning a fabulous sounding wellness and yoga retreat in Sri Lanka early next year. I participated in a morning yoga class, which is one of the best I have done. Instructed by fabulous Irish girl, Clare Loughnane, she really encourages and pushes you to make you aware that though yoga is noted for its internal cleansing of the mind, it is a thoroughly proper workout to tone and shape ones limbs and it is a class that I will now make as a regular, weekly event on my exercise calendar. I believe that whilst going on at the same time as my class, a Pure Body Balance fitness instructor was up in the estate’s woods performing meditation and tai-chi with a client – on a glorious sunny morning which it was, what a lovely way to achieve some personal time, healing yourself. Pure Body Balance Centre for Wellbeing Marsden Estate Nr Rendcomb Cirencester Gloucestershire GL7 7EX Tel: 01285 831271 www.purebodybalance.co.uk

This rather fabulous, prettymuch, instant tan, is applied in-salon by Jo Donald, the hilarious owner of one of Cheltenham’s premier salons, or you can purchase a spray or liquid version of the product for your own use as an at-home application. The reason this tan is so ‘upthere,’ is that the colour is fantastic! It blends with your own skin-tone to give a very natural look – it is neither orange nor does it smell and best of all, you wash it off 3 hours after application, so no stained sheets or hiding away all night looking like a specimen from TOWIE. The golden legs were first showcased at a very smart party at Cowley Manor, followed by a viewing in the office of six women and then at the school pick-up gates – never has one had so many comments about how good ‘the legs were looking’ and I know for fact, Jo has had at least seven immediate tan bookings as a result. The formula is paraben free and contains no nasty ingredients and the home products are ideal to use for maintenance and to continue the sun kissed look. South Seas Tan at Josspa – www.josspa.com or 01242 520553

John Frieda Beach Blonde Hair Range The Cool Dip Purifying Shampoo is an invigorating seaweed formula emitting scents of cucumber and is as ideal for post-beach hair care as it is for detoxifying heat-damaged hair. The Smooth Seas Detangling Conditioner is an Omega-rich Kukui formula and is particularly helpful, if you are like me having to sit outdoors for hours on end whilst your son is playing cricket on the cold and windy Sundays we have experienced recently. On coming home, I feel my hair is filthy and dry and these cleansing and conditioning products have detangled and completely refreshed my hair. The added bonus is, they’re only £5.99 each from Boots.

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Beautifully ha hand and crafted fine Jewellery. Jewellery.

John Joh hn Titcombee Fine Jewellery

1R 7KH 0DOO &OLIWRQ & 9 9LOODJH LOODJH %ULVWRO %6 '3 a 7 7HO HO H Â&#x2021; 1R 7KH 0DOO &OLIWRQ Q9 9LOODJH LOODJH %ULVWRO %6 '5 a 7 7HO H HO Cirencester,, Glos. GL7 2NX ~ T Tel: No.39 Market Place, e, Cirencester el: 01285 655754

www.johntitcombe.co.uk w www .johntitcombe.co.uk

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Fashion

Grace&Glamour DENIM IS TRENDING THIS MAY Whether you live in it or seldom sport it, denim is big this season. While I might not be the first to style it from dress to jacket, I’ve most certainly got my eye on a few key pieces that can give any outfit that fashion forward feeling nd isn’t that just something? I don’t know about you, but each February and September can often involve a little terror for me. Bit of a playful kind of terror. When the trends head down the catwalk, I excitedly anticipate what’s about to happen, secretly hoping nothing too ‘out there’ is on its way. I like to slice and dice the catwalk trends to suit my lifestyle and I’m sure you’ll agree; it works for me. Denim is something I’ve always loved and I swear by a simple black skinny but as soon as that seventies denim vibe was out in September I knew this one was a little different. It’s so easy to work into what you already love and wear, so I’ve pulled together a couple of pieces that I think will do just the job for you. Starting with some statement Karen Millen skinnies. Karen Millen is really working their denim game lately. I like how this pair is a light wash for summer and has those so on trend rips. But these splits are conservative rips and to me, that’s imperative. I’ve always been a fan of the denim shirt and sport mine with everything from jeans and skirts to under and over dresses. They’re easy to wear and will definitely be an of the moment fad. Topshop has a great selection and I especially admire that they have this western style in

Topshop Warehouse Whistles

French Connection

black. Dyed denims always seem to give off that notdenim look that can be fun and give you a lot more use. Jacket wise, I’m not afraid to admit that I’m a little tired of the same old style of denim jackets. I’d definitely rather something a little more creative like this quilted effect bomber from French Connection. I’m definitely not all that keen (or brave enough to sport), something

longer line; so a bomber is a great compromise in my eyes. Of all of the denim around, flares are definitely the most popular and coveted and it’s great to wear wider legs again, as they’re just so comfortable! These very casual looking jeans from Whistles are perfect. They’ve got that slightly tailored look to them too so you can dress your look up in an instant for something more smart-casual. And how could I not put something like this together without a dress? I love a denim dress at the best of times, so this season is like Christmas come early for me. Warehouse does this gorgeous version (that also comes in white). I fell for it due to the cut alone and that it has that very current utility feel without being too masculine.

Grace @graceoliviap www.dorothyandolive.com

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07960 971876 Quality Arts & Crafts brought to you by artists & makers within Gloucestershire

Spread the love and recommend a friend and you and your friend will receive 10% OFF on their next visit.

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QUALIFIED STYLIST TO JOIN OUR TEAM To work as self employed/renting a chair and bringing your own clients with you. Very competitive rates. Please contact the salon via email: beauamis@hotmail.co.uk or simply pop in for a chat, to see the salon and meet the team. Visit our new, spacious shop in Cheltenham’s

www.arcadeartisans.co.uk | Email: arcadeartisans@hotmail.com

THE COURTYARD MONTPELLIER STREET | CHELTENHAM | GL50 1SR

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07534 408533 eat@minimorsels.co.uk

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Beauty

BLOSSOM WITH EASY TO DO MAKE UP Amy Hickey’s guide to fresh-faced skin Get skin savvy with these gorgeous products: Here are my 3 hero tinted face creams: Revision Intellishade Tinted Moisturiser SPF 45

This provides a soft, dewy ‘no makeup’ finish. Not only does it protect the skin from harmful rays, its powerful ingredients help reduce pigmentation spots, increases hydration and increases skins elasticity.

Dermatologists love this award winning, anti aging skin protecting tinted cream. Not only does it provide you with an even skin tone it reduces the appearance of fine lines, open pores and help fights photodamage. Its amazing formula blends naturally with your own skin colour. Available at Sk:n clinics or online.

Radiance Perfected Tinted Moisturiser SPF 15 by Eve Lom

CC Crème HD à la Centella Asiatica from Space NK This cream adapts to all skin colours, a must for summer. It is highly moisturising, smearing out imperfections, enhancing radiance and protecting from UVA and UVB rays.

> The above is all well and good but when the sun is warming up your skin it is also warming up the makeup you applied a short time ago. This isn’t good for longevity, so how do you overcome this problem? A superb idea for when the weather gets warmer is to use a makeup setting spray or mist. This wonderful invention is a great way to freshen dull, tired skin as well as keeping your make up on, in even the hottest of climates. Presented in a spray or mist form, the texture feels almost transparent and lightweight so as not to change the colour or feel of your make up. Think of it as a top-coat to your make up. My recommendations are listed here:

Urban Decay Chill Makeup Setting Spray £21 Fix your makeup for up to 12 hours with this weightless spray with cooling time release technology that chills the surface of your makeup. Perfect for those sun scorching days! Can be used on dry and combination skins.

Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray £22.95 This award winning oil control mist helps absorb excess oil and keeps make up fresh and flawless all day, so no need for skin touch-ups and blotting.

NYX Finish Spray £8 This fabulously low cost high performance spray keeps your make up fixed throughout the day. It feels comfortable on your skin and is available in a dewy or matte finish.

MY MUST HAVE PRODUCT THIS MONTH... Vita Liberata Self Tanning Night Moisture Mask We all love to wake up feeling and looking great. This overnight mask helps you feel a million dollars even if you have over indulged the night before. With its calming properties, HyH20 technology and powerful .

T: 07733 237767 E: amyhickey.com@gmail.com Twitter: @amy_hickey Facebook.com/amyhickeycom

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Fashion

with Yvette Brentnall

FESTIVAL SPECIAL

Wonderfully Wild Cotswold Style’s Fashion Editor Yvette Brentnall, rocks with festival spirit at the stunning location of Severn End, Hanley Castle ASSISTANT FASHION STYLIST: TRACY DOUGHTY PHOTOGRAPHY: STEFANIE CALLEJA-GERA WWW.SCG-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT: DAVEY TERRIFIC estival season is upon us. How the festivals of today are so different to that of yesteryears. Posh tents, big bands and adapted vintage vehicles as bars and food venues. The inspiration for my shoot came when I spoke to Suzie Goodman who masterminded and pulled together an array of these vehicles including a double decker red bus masquerading as a cocktail bar! We just needed the perfect venue. My good friend Pippa Barkley of the Vineyard Barn Bed & Breakfast together with Nick and Caroline Lechmere from Severn End, Hanley Castle, kindly allowed us access to their magnificent homes and grounds. The magic of Severn End, a 16th Century steely home majestically sitting on the banks of the River Severn, nestled below the Malvern hills was complemented with delightful April sunshine to provide the textbook setting for our shoot.

Make up artist Vally Calandra and hair stylist Lottie Davis, both top of their games, coiffured and created the perfect festival look. My assistant stylist Tracy Doughty and I set about dressing the girls and boys with mirth’s of laughter echoing in the hills. The beautiful models all worked tirelessly, with Pippa, Nick and Caroline being the perfect hosts making us so very welcome. I cannot thank them enough. Severn End home is the inspiration for PG Woodhouse’s Jeeves and Worcester, written loosely about the Lechmere family set in the heart of Middle England and very close to my heart, as my children and I grew up just a few miles upstream. Severn End is beautiful venue for weddings and private parties and the Vineyard Barn next door, is probably the most well appointed, romantic B&B in Worcestershire - aptly named too as they have their own vineyard! The clothes were sourced mainly from

House of Fraser and Scarramouch, which is a little gem of hidden vintage pieces based in Cheltenham. The models’ Indian Kaftans are the brainchild Tracey Doughty, sourced directly from India and the funky sound systems are custom made by Bass Trunkies. Thanks to Steph and Dave for catching the shoot so gloriously through the lens, Suzie Goodman and those on board for the vast array of unique vehicles and especially to Nick and Caroline Lechmere, as without Severn End none of this would have been possible. Also special thanks to Pippa and Simon Barkley at the Vineyard for their generous free bar (he he), all our gorgeous models, Lottie and Vally on hair and makeup, oh and let's not forget my assistant Tracy - the highlight for me was when she attempted to wash up my dog, Miss Nibbles! It was a shame when the shoot was all over – we never wanted this party to end. >

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Fashion

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Fashion

CREDITS FASHION EDITOR Yvette Brentnall yvetteb@mif-filters.com 07818 405414 ASSISTANT STYLIST Tracy Doughty tracy.doughty@hotmail.co.uk 07817 760251 PHOTOGRAPHY Stefanie Calleja-Gera www.scg-photography.com PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANT Davey Terrific MODELS Autumn Thomas autumn.thomas@icloud.com 07854 239608 Ellie Mitchell ellie-mitchell@hotmail.co.uk 07926 291068 Charlotte Hamilton charlottechayse@yahoo.com 07557 053269 Andy H Rogers andy@basstrunkies.co.uk 07403 986847 Henry Doughty henrydoughty@aol.com 07482 426919 Lucas Roy-Smith lucasroysmith@icloud.com 07807 786944 MAKE-UP ARTIST Valentina Calandra valentina.calandra@hotmail.co.uk 07519 053251 HAIR Lottie Davis @ Blushes Cheltenham lottie.davis12@live.co.uk 07771 805601

STOCKISTS Indian Dresses by Tracy Doughty tracy.doughty@hotmail.co.uk 07817 760251 Scarramouch 270 High Street, Cheltenham, GL50 3HQ 01242 513490 House of Fraser 32-48 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1HP www.houseoffraser.co.uk Bass Trunkie Soundsystems andy@basstrunkies.com www.basstrunkies.co.uk VEHICLE SUPPLIERS Suzie Goodman Kushi Cars & Ambassador Wedding Car 07828 309527 hello@kushicars.co.uk www.kushicars.co.uk Nic Vickery Quirky Gertie Vintage Caravan www.facebook.com/pages/ Quirky-Gertie-Vintage-CaravanHire/280812428796730 Nick Big Red Bus Bar and Campervan www.bigredbusbar.com Danni Kerby The Wild Oven Landrover http://thewildoven.co.uk/ Tom The Cotswold Vintage Scoop, Ice Cream Van www.chippingnortonteaset.co.uk Moss Letters by Jodie Bond info@theletterloft.co.uk LOCATION Nicholas Lechmere Severn End, Hanley Castle, Worcs Tel: 01684 594817 Email: nick@severnend.co.uk Pippa Barkley The Vineyard Barn B&B Hanley Castle Tel: 01684 592847 / 07866 592847 www.vineyardbarn.co.uk

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OLIM

T: 01242 250 230 M: 07791 705 249

Olim Construc%on of Cheltenham - Property Maintenance - from Cleaning Gu&ers to Design and Build! Builders

Decorators

Property Extensions Maintenance

Kitchens

Bathrooms

Roofing

“Our primary goal is the sa%sfac%on of all our customers. We are commi&ed to oﬀering you high quality products and a superior level of service without breaking you budget.” Olim Construc%on Limited is a full service building contractor based in Cheltenham in the Midlands and serving Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire. We deliver quality without compromise.

Olim is headed by Edmund Haddock, who has over 30 years hands-on experience in all aspects of the trade – with an in depth knowledge of Construc%on Industry and all complementary trades u%lised to tackle our customers construc%on and maintenance project requirements.

“Our goal is to make every customer a repeat customer.”

In every project we have taken on – from major renova%ons and refurbishment, through extension, rooﬁng and joinery projects down to those small maintenance tasks – we have stuck to our tradi%onal values. Client sa%sfac%on remains the cornerstone of our company. “We work for both commercial and private household clients, and on jobs of all sizes, from rela%vely menial maintenance tasks right up to complete barn conversion and newbuilds.”For a no-obliga%on discussion about your individual needs, please just contact us. We will always provide wri&en quota%ons on request.

www.olim-lifestyle.co.uk

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GROWING

GLOUCESTERSHIRE BUSINESSES

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A NEW NAME TO SELL YOUR HOUSE Cotswold Style met with Mark Ellison, owner of Cheltenham based ME and You Estate Agents … Tell us a bit about your background Mark? I have always been a diligent worker; starting my first job when I was 11. Wanting to graft and pay my way has always been in my blood. I had the good fortune of living in America for three years whilst at a young age, working in different restaurants to earn pocket money throughout my stay and on returning, I worked for the then newly opened TGI Fridays, whilst continuing with my studies. I was used to a customer-facing role and enjoyed this interaction. When an opportunity arose to move on to something different but just as interesting and interacting with the public, I jumped at it. This led to my first job in the motor trade which lasted for 20 years, eleven of them working for BMW. How was ME and You then formed, as it’s a different type of industry? Taking a lifetime of sales experience and an ambition of working for myself, ME And You has come about from my recognition that people simply want the service they invest in. ME is Mark Ellison (and associates) and You is …You! This is about ME looking after You, in all aspects and every step along the way of your property sale or purchase. Cheltenham is a wonderful town, full of character, history and distinguished architecture. It is difficult not to be captured by its charm and I have for many years longed to be part of its evergrowing property scene. The motor trade and property market share many parallels and the transition for me, is very natural. As with anything, the time has to be right to entertain such a change and this time is now. I have spent many months

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Mark Ellison

building and putting together my own Estate Agency that will give you simply what you ask for when selling your home or buying your next one – a communicative, honest, transparent experience. What makes ME And You different from the competition? I have spent the last 20 years of my life forming relationships and building trust with my clients. I never wished to become the stereotypical definition of a salesman. I just fell into these roles because it felt natural for me to want to be involved with people, rather than contained

within an office from 9 to 5. What I believe to be responsible for my success over my career, is my contrasting approach to selling. The last thing I would do is to “sell”. The product is secondary as the relationship is primary. People buy from people they like and trust, so before we could ever sell a product, we have to build the relationship and trust, to earn the right to then sell whatever it is we are selling. There are between 60 and 70 agents in and around Cheltenham but that doesn't mean there isn’t room for improvement! I am an independent agent whose promise is to take away

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Business the typical, commercial ‘hard sell’ approach that people often associate with Estate Agents. What does ME and You Estate Agents specialise in - residential sales, lettings or commercial property? We specialise in residential sales at present but there is always scope for us to take on a lettings service in the future. Being Cheltenham based, are you operating only in the town or across the Cotswolds? Our business mainly focuses on the core Cheltenham market but I am always available to sell your property wherever you may be living across the Cotswolds. If a Labour government wins this month’s General Election, do you think people will be deterred from buying higher end properties with the threat of a mansion tax being imposed? Generally, I think people try to save money where they can and this will naturally have a certain effect, steering people to properties below the threshold. However on the whole, I don’t think it will deter those that can afford this type of property. If people are deterred, I believe it will be due to their principles, not affordability. Will you be promoting your properties using new digital technology so one can get a proper feel of the property before having to go and actually look? I will be promoting my clients properties through Agents Mutual and Rightmove in the traditional fashion, as well as on my website. You can only take technology so far and in my humble opinion, this does not and will not replace the physicality of client interaction with the property itself. There is only so much information one can garner from the computer screen. Who wouldn't want to see one of the most important purchases they are going to embark upon in the flesh? Perhaps some agents would prefer to not have the client interaction until they know how serious they are. This is not my approach. I would prefer to do it the old fashioned way. After all, a property can sell itself but people buy from people they like and trust.

What is happening with house prices locally? Have they risen as high as they are going to for the next few years or do you think there will still be growth? House prices have been on the rise locally over the past few years. One can see the reaction to this by the number of sale boards coming and going due to market interest and people wishing to capitalise on their property growth. The development of new builds has risen around Cheltenham and continues, which emphasises confidence with builders and the market place and the way in which house prices are going. It is fair to assume or predict that they might have risen as far as they may but nothing is certain or guaranteed in property, or anything for that matter. I remain optimistic of course.

that is poorly presented for sale. Our natural instinct is to avoid this something and move on to the next, better presented item. Your house is the single most expensive item you will buy or sell. Why is somebody going to buy your house? Simply because it is better than the others they have viewed. When selling your house, it must be displayed in such a way that it creates the desire that the buyer is looking for. It has to capture and evoke that emotion that will convince this person that they want to build their home here, potentially for the rest of their lives. First impressions are so important. Simply put, your house must be ready. Would you buy a car displayed on a forecourt that was not valeted, covered in scratches, with a service light on? I rest my case!

What is the most important thing buyers are looking for when purchasing? Younger people especially look at the band a house is in, in terms of running and environmental costs. Is it that important? Naturally, affordability. I agree, the young buyer just looks at what they can afford in order to get their foot on the ladder, so avoiding high fees in all areas of buying a property will drive their first purchase. Unfortunately, for them, it is more about getting a mortgage in place and raising the deposit. As to the more mature buyer, I don't think running and environmental costs really come into their buying brief. Location, style, size, comfort, re-saleability, investment, are all key areas of importance.

What commission rates do you charge? We currently have an outstanding introductory offer on, so please get in touch so we can discuss further! To discover a new type of estate agency contact Mark Ellison at: 21 Rodney Road, Cheltenham, Glos, GL50 1HX Tel: 01242 584007 www.meandyouestateagents.co.uk Facebook.com/meandyouestateagents

What advice would you give to people looking at selling their property to make sure their house is desirable before it goes on the market? We have all witnessed something in life

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A CUT ABOVE

Laura-Jayne Roberts talks to local retail and catering butchers Martins Meats, on their highly successful business and reveals their forthcoming business plans… PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROB WHEATMAN With the simple dish of steak and chips topping the polls in Britain's favourite comfort food, we are especially lucky to have on our doorstep , Martins Meats, whose 28 day aged Longhorn steak won best product in the National Great Taste Awards. Owned by passionate husband and wife team, Martin and Emma Gilder, Martins Meats began it’s story back in 2003 when whilst beef farming, Martin's passion for truly great beef led him to set up his own butchers where he could oversee the whole process from producing high quality rare breed cattle, using traditional methods of aging the meat, combined with new modern ideas from America of using pink Himalyan rock salt to produce the best possible tasting meat. “We spotted a gap in the market as, at that time, most farmers were focused on selling to the public,” said Martin. “Nobody was really concentrating on the restaurant industry.” This discovery coincided with the growing public interest towards local produce, which Martin tapped into. “I saw a space in the market for supplying locally sourced meat to restaurants, hotels and caterers, I began by supplying meat to a friends pub and it grew from there.” Martins Meats use all traditional breeds of cattle like Aberdeen Angus, Hereford, South Devon, but also uses Rare Breeds in particular Longhorns which are Britain's

98 MAY 2015 COTSWOLD STYLE

oldest breed of cattle. Martin said: “The reason why our beef is the best is because, unlike most large producers who use continental cattle which are intensely farmed and very lean, we use traditional and rare breeds, which are not intensely farmed and have a much more succulent flavour and marbling in the meat, as well as a finer grain, all of which adds to the flavour and the tenderness of the meat. In the media recently the shift in healthy eating advice has acknowledged that a certain amount of good saturated fat is actually good for you. In our Longhorn steak this good, white dry fat is clear to see in the fantastic marbling." Their meat is aged for 28 days in Martin’s own Himalayan salt chamber, which ensures it is even more tender, whilst also reducing the excess moisture. This guarantees that when people cook it, less of the flavour is lost in the juices.

Martin highlighted: “We basically do the opposite to most mass producers, who would add moisture to increase the weight of the meat. This process loses the flavour of the meat. By dry aging our meat it’s more tender, more juicy, more flavoursome, and it also cooks quicker because there is less moisture!" When Martin first began the business he worked tirelessly during the night and in his spare time, he explained: “At the beginning it was a lot of hard work, but it was well worth it as it has slowly grown to the present day where we now supply 230 restaurant and hotels, including businesses in Cornwall such as Jamie Oliver’s restaurant in Watergate Bay, in London; Goodmans, and most of the premium restaurants in and around Cheltenham. So from Restaurant No5 in Winchombe to The Daffodil or Brasserie Blanc in Cheltenham, or to the Kingham Plough at Kingham, mouthwatering menu delights are only a stone’s throw for most. However it’s not only top notch restaurants that Martin’s Meats caters for. Martin spoke passionately about a key target market he would like to crack. “We want to start targeting schools, nursing homes and local councils,” he said. “A lot of people and businesses assume that the larger manufacturers are naturally able to offer cheaper prices, however the fact that we are local and own all our animals means we can demand a much higher price for our premium cuts of meat, so can in fact offer certain cuts such as minced or diced beef cheaper than the mass manufacturers can. I am confident we could beat their prices." The word ‘local’ really can’t be more true as Martin’s farm, ‘Hillview Farm’, Gretton, the abattoir in Gloucester, the

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Business cutting plant where the meat is cut and aged in Toddington and the brand new butchery shop at Teddington Hands are all within a 10 mile radius of one another. In fact the latter is a recent and very exciting development to the business; the Martins Meats butchery which is now open at Teddington Stores and selling a fantastic range of dry aged Longhorn beef, Gloucester Old Spot pork, Cotswold reared lamb and poultry. Emma said: “Our new store at Teddington Hands roundabout has enabled us to offer our finest quality products to the public. After eating our meat in restaurants in the area, customers often ask where they can purchase the meat to cook at home. So being able to offer a professional, well presented shop really enables us to target public sales.” Martins Meats are unique. They are one of the only meat producers in the Southwest and Midlands to offer Himalayan salt aged beef, lamb and pork, produced using their salt chamber. Martin explained: “We use Himalayan pink rock salt, which impregnates the meat and adds extra flavour. It also allows us to age the meat for up to 60 days for our ultimate cuts. In fact you can actually see some of this rock salt at their shop, Martin explained: “We have a display cabinet in which we have placed our rock salt and aged cuts of beef to show people how it all works, and this has helped us increase our profile already.” With their very successful business model it is no surprise that Martins Meats have won a considerable number of awards. Martin said: “Over the past couple of years we have averaged four to five award winning products. We won best product in the Great Taste Awards, South West, 2013. Out of 10,000 products we got into the top 10 nationwide and then won our regional award. Plus there was only one other meat based product in the top 10 other than ourselves, so we could argue we’re the best meat producers in the UK!” A new Martins Meats product on the market, sure to get all those BBQ fans out there reeling with excitement, is the Longhorn beef burger which has been awarded one gold star in the Great Taste Awards, Gold in the Taste of the West and

Silver in Britain's Best Burger. Martin explains: “We know this is a unique product as very few farm the Longhorn cattle but I would love to try and get it into supermarkets for the summer months as a luxury BBQ product. “We want to give our products a contemporary twist to ensure we still move with the times. Aging meat really went out of fashion in the 1950’s/60’s/70's with the advent of mass production. We aim to bring it back.” Looking ahead to the future, in addition to tapping into schools and local authorities, Emma and Martin would love to open another shop, where there is a market for luxury meats. “We would like to expand to offer a wider variety of products, not just meat. There is currently a little deli-style section we’ve got at the Teddington Hands shop, including all locally sourced products such as chocolate, cheeses, chutneys etc. We have taken on a few apprentices, including a chef who prepares readymeals for customers to take away, which are excellent and have bought a new dimension to the business. It’s an area we are keen to grow in as we feel that our home-made array of curries, stir-fries and meatballs are of the highest order.” With Martin’s father and grandfather having been cattle farmers and dealers, the saying ‘it runs in the blood’ could never be more true. “From the time I learnt to walk I’ve been going to cattle markets and therefore I have developed a good eye,” said Martin. “I was a cattle buyer at the age of 16, so I have always been able to spot good livestock and I still buy a lot of mine from fields in the Cotswolds in the traditional way. “I actually knew very little about butchery until getting into this venture as it’s very rare that the two areas of farming

and butchery cross over but I now know both sides of the trade, which gives me a great all-round view of the market,” he added. Perhaps something even more exciting than new products for the imminent future is the old seventies style Bedford Lorry, Martin is having refurbished, with a view to opening it as a retro-burger van to take Martin’s Meats products to festivals and outdoor events over the summer months. “We have already tapped into the growth of the hog roast market and have provided the catering at events and weddings,” explained Martin. “With my retro-burger van in tow we would like to grow this side of the business as it would really work with people hiring out the van itself, with catering included of course, for their own events or weddings. We would also love to take the van, for instance, to Cheltenham races as we feel it would be a perfect fit.” Well with many a keen race-goer in the county I’m sure no one would object because if all that hasn’t got you salivating and eager to race down to your local bistro, supermarket or the actual Teddington Hands shop, it can only mean one thing, you must be a vegetarian! For more information about Martins Meats go to www.martinsmeats.com or Twitter @martinsmeats Teddington Stores, Evesham Road, Teddington, Tewkesbury, GL20 8N Tel 01386 725488

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Advising families for the 21st Century Cotswold Style talks to founder of Keystone Family Advisers, Jonathan Gage, who reveals the right platform for preserving wealth… Have you ever wondered how your next family generation would cope with their inheritance? Perhaps you want help to get the best from your existing advisers, or just some reassurance that your longstanding advisers are doing the right thing for you? Or you may have unexpectedly inherited and need reassurance or advice as you decide on a plan of action? Whatever the need, Keystone Family Advisers will listen to the concerns you have, point out the choices and make suggestions. And, when you want an answer to a specific problem, they will provide that. Founded by Jonathan Gage, chartered accountant and a Fellow of the Chartered Institute for Securities and Investment, Keystone Family Advisers is dedicated to leading, guiding and supporting wealthy individuals and families in their personal affairs and through change. Keystone understands the complexities of the modern changing world, where nothing is constant except the need to conserve and grow family wealth. Jonathan said: “I have been advising families through challenging times in various different environments for many years. About two years ago I started thinking that I could add value to families by combining my skills and experiences to help them plan so they could feel confident about their assets and the younger generation they might wish to pass them on to. I encourage families to recognise the need to become more business-like, and I help them achieve this by bringing in specialist advisers which make sense for what they want to do.” Having always preferred to deal with individuals rather than processes, Jonathan stressed: “We now live in a

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Jonathan Gage

world where advice is influenced by what a corporatist organisation wants its advisers to do. Only advisers free from the restrictions of the organisation are truly able to take the time needed to listen to the client and to understand what their concerns and broader needs are. It was this realisation which led me to conclude that these complex family requirements are better served through the lens of a completely independent environment.” Keystone is free from any restriction which might impact the advice they give. They have no alliances with any investment managers, law firms, land agents or other parties, which means they can give truly impartial advice on selecting and working with those best suited for each client. “We pride ourselves in listening and helping our clients to feel more in control of their affairs,” said Jonathan. “We have gained knowledge of the market place of advisers over many years so we can access the right element of professional expertise and can adapt this to the

particular circumstances of the individual or family.” Making the best of families existing framework is Keystone’s first priority. “We aim to bring family members closer and find ways around the issues they have. We help settle differences of opinion, we mentor younger members, and update skills where necessary,” said Jonathan. “Being independent and outside the family we can see what is fair from different perspectives, aiming for an outcome which is in everyone’s interest. But we will always work with family members and long standing advisers unless we are asked to do otherwise. When new needs arise that are beyond the scope of existing advisers, we are well placed to find the expertise that is needed. With over 22 years of experience of working with wealthy families at firms such as Lloyds, Fleming Family & Partners, UBS Wealth Management and Barclays Wealth while winning awards for excellence, Jonathan knows the right questions to ask. His experience of managing, mentoring, team-building, risk management and coaching people through his city career has led him through postings in the UK and overseas, with a focus on overseas clients alongside individuals, UK family offices, entrepreneurs, executives, VIPs and traditional families. Jonathan said: “Clients often start with a specific problem to fix. This is often when financial control, mediation and decisive action needs to take place urgently. But clients recognise that usually these problems are symptoms of deeper issues and often choose to go further. We can do project specific work or build longer-term relationships. Building long-term relationships based

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Business on mutual trust is very important to us.” Times can change quickly and what once worked well for families may no longer be practical or indeed possible. Keystone has experience of working with businesses large and small and can help families become more ‘business-like’, with financial control, office organisation, staffing, technology and more. Mentoring & coaching is another area in which Keystone can help. Mentoring is specific help from someone who has been there before, while coaching is about helping clients find their inner resources to realise their goals. One family that Keystone has helped were in the early stages of handing the reins to younger generations. It was time to review the family’s priorities and plan an appropriate approach. There were (unsurprisingly) different views on the way forward. As a result, it was necessary to review the way decisions were made. The task for Jonathan was to achieve consensus between the different family groups to clarify family wishes for the trustees. Therefore, they conducted bilateral discussions and secured an agreement to tender for a Strategic Review, for which they agreed terms of reference and arranged a beauty parade for outside consultants, plus secured family backing for the results. The outcome written in the Strategic Review report proposed several longterm objectives to unite the family and secured family backing for a new framework for taking day-to-day decisions. The Strategic Report proposed a seven-point plan to restore the finances of the combined estate, the family agreed to adopt a unified ‘oneestate’ approach and committed to implementing a process for financial governance. The ways in which Keystone has helped and can further help families is rapidly increasing and includes; establishing a process for succession planning, strategies to improve the financial performance of large landed estates significantly and helping families to think in a more business like way through reviewing financial information and accountability. Other areas include reviewing longterm family priorities, establishing the right type of family governance to help in

making informed decisions, a high level co-ordination of the day to day operations of a large family concern plus coordinating and leading discussions with banks for re-financing and coordinating an inventory of chattels for insurance and inheritance tax. Plus acting as an honest broker in a number of difficult family issues, overseeing investment strategy for international clients, coordinating investment activities and advising on risk aspects of a family’s investments, are all other features of the help Keystone provides. Since starting Keystone the response in the market place has been very positive from prospective clients and advisers alike. “We have introduced some new strategic thinking between our clients and their advisers,” enthused Jonathan. “We have taken the lead and secured a successful re-financing of family entity; we have advised a family on introducing a more inclusive system of family governance; we have mediated a discussion in the wider family on the transfer of wealth to the next generation in a secure and timely manner; and we are in the process of carrying out a review on the strategic options to secure diversification and increasing income over the next five years. Our clients come to us through word of mouth. They like to feel involved with their own affairs and appreciate the time and candid advice we can give. With the benefit of years of experience in many spheres, full independence from other advisers and a fresh start,

Keystone receive satisfaction from fixing problems, as Jonathan confirms: “ I particularly enjoy helping families transition through difficult periods of change. Families can get so embroiled in their daily lives and sometimes it can be difficult for them to see a positive outcome. So whether that’s maintaining the status quo, finding a different financial structure, help in evolving their strategic vision, or embracing issues that seem difficult to come to terms with, I love all elements of the challenge and the satisfaction of getting people to the outcome of their choice is incredibly rewarding.” Looking to the future Jonathan would love to think of Keystone as developing an important position of trust in preserving what people stand for, as well as providing the motivation to find the right platform for preserving wealth between one generation and the next. “When we step into a situation we can often act as a catalyst for things to sort themselves out more easily. We are good listeners and take the trouble to help everyone feel comfortable about what is happening, which is the best way to agree solutions that will last for generations.” For more information visit www.keystoneadvisers.uk

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BE HAPPY ALL YEAR ROUND AT

WORLD OF SMILE We talk to Managing Director Jon Burke, the man behind the smile World of Smile is an all-encompassing solution for house and garden improvements. Tell us what exactly you provide? World of Smile are unique in the conservatory market in that we go a step or two further to being a one stop shop for the home & garden. We offer everything from furniture for the home to garden improvements, summerhouses and most importantly to me, creating a place your family can grow in and enjoy for years! In addition to all these services, we also have both a building and a

John Burke

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conservatory company entwined with other wonderful products to ensure you only need us to complete everything you need for your home. Many homes in Cheltenham have old style sash windows – what is an affordable way of replacing them? Sash window replacement is not just about being affordable, it’s about using a product that you’re both satisfied with and that will enhance your home to both increase its curb appeal whilst ensuring you and your family stay warm and safe.

Apart from storage sheds, you provide beautiful garden buildings. For someone looking at creating additional home / office space in the garden what do you suggest? At World of Smile, we try to be as bespoke as our customers spaces, lives and desires are! This means that nothing is off limits, we can build you a garden office that’s 30ft long or a summerhouse for the bottom of the garden with leaded windows and cedar roof-tops. We can make your dream a reality no matter what your budget. We have a showground to showcase all these items, as the quality and standards of these buildings is what sets us apart. This is something you can see for yourself as soon as you enter the World of Smile Leisure Village on the Evesham Road. How high spec are your conservatories - can you also create authentic orangeries which would work with period properties? Whether you are looking for a lean-to, Georgian, Edwardian, Victorian conservatory or something a little more bespoke like a P-shaped conservatory, then we can create it for you, no project is too big or too small for us. Orangeries have also grown in popularity recently. Dating back to Renaissance Italy, orangeries were used for growing exotic fruits and plants, and are a different take on a traditional conservatory. Our orangeries are individually made and designed to complement the style of your home. Constructed with a combination of brick pillars and glass, they offer light-filled and flexible living spaces. A wide range of features and options mean you can have yours exactly as you want it.

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Business

Summer is on its way and many people are looking for new garden furniture. What do you recommend and how weather proof are your products? I think people nowadays want something they don’t have to maintain, as we are a time-starved generation who love our free time.

This means one thing, composite material like Rattan furniture, which requires no painting or staining can live outside without the tired weather look that the delightful UK weather gives us. People will pay a little more to have a little more time to just SIT and relax in the little time they have What home improvement do you feel makes the most impact aesthetically on a property? For me personally it’s the garden room. An extension of the family living space,

conservatories have now evolved to being a room the whole family can use all year round, even in the coldest winter months and hottest of summer days. A solid roof looks really smart and also helps with fuel efficiency due to better heat retention. I would say seven out of ten of the extensions or conservatories we build, now have composite roofing as it’s cheaper than a single story extension but looks and acts just like a real roof. How do your prices and services compare with that of your competitors? I think a lot of people went Internet crazy with buying things online. Sometimes you got a winner but more often than not you would be left feeling short changed in terms of quality and standards. I myself have made the same mistake. At World of Smile we offer you the opportunity to see what you are getting by coming to visit us and seeing the product for yourself so you can get a real idea of what your money is getting you. We are very excited that now we have an online showroom and shop as well as our physical Leisure Village. This means that you can browse your product online and then come and see it in the flesh at our Evesham Road Leisure Village or buy

an item online that you have seen for yourself from the comfort of your own sofa. This is a really unique selling point for us as we don’t know of anyone else in the area or indeed anywhere, that offers this kind of customer experience for these types of products. World of Smile Conservatory and Leisure Village, Evesham Road, Cheltenham GL50 4SJ (next to the Wyevale Garden Centre) www.worldofsmile.com Telephone: 01242 677 555 Facebook.com/worldofsmileuk Twitter @worldofsmileuk

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EMPLOYMENT LAW ADVICE COVER FROM AS LITTLE AS £100 PER MONTH Practical Advice, Simply Put G l o u c e s t e r s h i r e ’s L e a d i n g S p e c i a l i s t s i n Em p l o y m e n t L a w

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Sherbornes Solicitors LLP 10 Royal Crescent, Cheltenham, GL50 3DA

T: 01242 250039

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Business

Investing in a changing world Recently relocating its Head Office to Cheltenham we talk to Piercefield Oliver about their key focus and reveal the plans for their new business event in Cheltenham… Headed by Stephen Willis and Louise Oliver, financial planning company, Piercefield Oliver and their dynamic team are enthusiastic to work with their key focus group, women in the Cotswolds, and assist them in times of change with bereavement, separation, divorce, retirement or inheritance. Piercefield Oliver help women realise their life’s ambitions and move beyond dealing with just short-term financial responsibilities. With their thorough understanding of all aspects of financial planning, accompanied by their appreciation that everyone is different, they help women see their wealth as the key to a life that is planned for and continues to develop. When change occurs individuals and families need to be able to look into the future, addressing the direction their lives will take. Louise, who has been in the financial services sector for more than 30 years and is a regular commentator on BBC breakfast TV, BBC news channel and BBC Radio 4 Moneybox, says: “We pride ourselves on being professional, caring and keeping our promises. Whatever the reason for first contacting us, women tend to stay with us for the long term, because by making their wealth work, they can realise their dreams and goals.” Change is often very difficult and can bring fear for the future. For example, inevitably every family experiences bereavement at some stage. In this eventuality Piercefield Oliver make sure clients have their financial affairs in order. Stephen, who has been in the financial services sector for over 25 years, says: “Working closely with the legal profession, we take the stress out of managing estates and getting through probate. By implementing careful and informed planning we can help take away the fear of the future.” Separation can be an extremely upsetting and challenging time and many women can find themselves feeling very vulnerable. They may suddenly find themselves financially independent and

Louise Oliver

solely responsible for all their finances, with perhaps little or no experience of investments, the tax system or any financial planning. Piercefield Oliver works closely with divorce lawyers and clients to help them see what their future finances may look like. This enables the parties involved to negotiate effectively and agree a sensible solution. The team makes it a priority to explain everything in a clear and transparent way. They help individuals to understand financial situations and educate in all areas of planning, not only for their future financially, but also to safeguard their finances, for their long term security and future of their children. Next month, Stephen and Louise will hold their debut business event in Cheltenham, ‘The Year of the Ram, investing in an uncertain world,’ on Tuesday 2nd June at Hotel du Vin, and present one of the best-known names in investment management, Justin Urquhart Stewart, who will provide an informative and entertaining overview of the global economy and how this can be applied to investing. Stephen says: “Having recently moved our head office we are looking to hold a series of informative events that are topical and educational. This event will appeal to individuals who are

Stephen Willis

interested in the world of investing. Attendees will be provided with an informative insight into financial planning and investing in this uncertain world.” For the lunch event Justin Urquhart Stewart, who won the ‘Best Industry Commentator’ from the City of London Wealth Management Awards 2012, and who is a frequent commentator on television and radio will present. Following this a buffet lunch will be served. Tickets are priced at £25. Please RSVP to info@piercefieldoliver.co.uk; 0845 257 8749. With a family feel to Piercefield Oliver, clients are made to feel like partners in investments rather than being advised, with the sole aim to give them total peace of mind over their financial future and confidence to enjoy investing. Many clients report that because of the team at Piercefield Oliver they are no longer scared by the world of finance. For more information about how Piercefield Oliver can help you go to www.piercefieldoliver.com

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

Style Event

Carol Gilbert and Maria Rogers

Sherbornes Solicitors host Annual Business Law Seminar Ronald Cowley, Claire Rimmel and Doug Sparrow

Representatives of nearly 70 local busi nesses gathered at Ellenborough Park Hotel in April, for Sherbornes Solicitors 5th Annual Busi ness Law Seminar. Partner Darren Sherborne said, “You cannot take clients for granted and we all feel grateful for the continued patronage of some of the county’s most well known and succ essful businesses as clients and attendees.” Photography by Angus Bethune Simon Birks and John Plint

Trula Blumsdon and Victoria Fraser

Melissa Roberts, Emma Harrison and Rachel Stewart Naomi Nicholas and Yaser Hussain

Josh Parkman andTracey Benfield

Lynn Hodgson and Will Cookson Kerry Fell, Beth French and Robert Kingscott

Simon Wall and Sharon Heeley Cinzia Hemsley, Urmi Ahmed, Pete Siddall and Roger

Daren Stevens, Charlotte Smith and Bridgette Smith

ings Lynn Hodgson and Cressida Hemm

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Downes

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CRAIG DERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

My Diary

Mandy Hall herds the cows out to pasture

here are so many highlights on the farm, which I love to share and this is one of them. As you know we have a very large collection of rare breed farm animals at the Farm Park, the largest we have are the cows and the calves being some of my very favourites. During the autumn we begin to prepare our barns and bed them up with lots of straw so we can then bring our calves in for the winter months. They will need their food intake monitored to make sure they have enough sustenance to keep them healthy and growing strong as they are too young to live outside. The calves have just been weaned, however their Mothers will be hardy enough to live outside. Over the last few months with the calves inside the barns, they've become a year old and now become yearlings, our stockmen have been keeping their watchful eye on our lovely young herd and waiting for the weather to pick up before they can consider turning them out. It's not just the weather we have to keep an eye on, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also the grass sword length, in other words, we have to make sure that the grass is of a reasonable

PHOTO: ROB WHEATMAN

length. If we let a herd of cattle out too soon on short grass, it would never sustain their weight on the ground and be able to grow into healthy grass, as it would just become down trodden and would not be strong enough or established enough to recover and grow into healthy grass. There are always so many factors to consider when farming, usually the weather being top of the list. I always relish in the chance to be involved with rounding up the yearlings, and help move them from their winter quarters into lush green pastures for the summer on the farm. Our stockman Mike Caunter and I, go to fetch the truck and trailer and begin loading the White Park, Highlands, Gloucester and Belted Galloway yearlings. They're always a bit dubious but with some gentle coaxing with their favourite food, it doesn't take long to persuade them on board. The paddock is not far away, so after a short journey from their winter barns, we can begin to unload. We have to be very careful at this point, as a stampede of cattle is not something you want

confronting you. We have to drop the trailer ramp down and stand well out of the way to the sides. As soon as the yearlings see the grass, they begin to snort and puff, again they are reluctant at first, but once one of the yearlingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; charges off, they all do. It's a wonderful sight to behold, you can almost hear them cheering with joy. They buck and kick their back legs out and skip and dance off together. They're happy cows. We always sit and watch them settle in for a while; it makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. They soon have their heads down and munching on the lush green grass. We have quite a few magnificent calves on display for you to see, some Belted Galloway, White Park and Highland calves, the Highlands look like hairy bears and they love nothing more than basking in the Spring sunshine together. The Cotswold Farm Park is open every day from 10.30am. For more information visit www.cotswoldfarmpark.co.uk To be up to date with all the latest Farm Park news, follow Mandy on Twitter @mandyfarmpark

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Finance

Financial Surgery Q. I’m a small business owner and every last bit of my spare cash is put back into the business to help it grow and flourish. I am worried however, that by paying myself such a small salary now and not paying into a pension at all, I might be setting myself up for difficulties in the future. What’s the best financial strategy for the future? Catherine, Shurdington

This is a question that arises quite frequently and actually is quite a simple one. As a business owner you need to look at yourself and your intentions and ask, why am I doing this? Is yours a lifestyle business or are you creating an asset? I’ll answer this question taking account of today’s legislation and make a huge leap in faith that politicians will not mess about with it too much. Essentially a lifestyle business is one where you create sufficient wealth to meet your needs, to raise and pay off a mortgage and live the way that makes you feel happy. This should include things like paying pension contributions to provide for the future and reduce present day tax bills. Creation of an asset is quite different the mantra is ‘build for sale’. In this business, the owner is creating value to be sold to the highest bidder looking to cash out and use entrepreneur’s relief: a tax concession giving a business owner a capital gains tax rate of 10% on the first £10m. All businesses need you to reinvest in the early years and at times in the future. A debt free existence is the best way to run any business but this can rarely be achieved when manufacturing or retailing. The thing to remember is that by reinvesting your own cash you are not borrowing and the growth doesn’t come with a price tag to be repaid, it repays you. Decide in the beginning whether your business can acquire a value or if you are the business’s most valuable asset. Q. Improving my small pension pot I have finally been given a work place pension, which I now also contribute

Robert Ward from Bank House is here every month to guide you through your financial questions into. However I realised that at the age of 41, if I carry on at this rate I’ll only have a tiny pot to live on when I retire. What can I do to help my pension pot along, without reducing my pay package any further? Peter, Cheltenham

Dear Peter, the secret is out. If we don’t save, we don’t have a future that we all deserve. I recall some 30 odd years ago when I first got interested in pensions that your predicament was described as climbing a mountain. The further away that you were the lower the gradient to the top. If you moved closer to the mountain you either had to put in more effort or at your existing level realize that you would never get to the top. You have a choice, either you pay in more now and increase this at every pay rise or accept that you will be better off than had you done nothing but it won’t be perfect. Remember every time you put in more the taxman adds his bit. Saving workplace pensions have no commissions paid out to anyone, so more of your money is in the scheme working for your future. Q. How can I make the pension changes work for me? I’m 61 and still in work in a job that I love. All this talk of Pensions Freedoms has left me wondering what my new options are – I still have a mortgage on my house and I don’t want to stop working when I hit 65, how can I make my pension work for me? Lynda, Farmington

Don’t buy a Ferrari, or any other exotic sports car for that matter. The present pensions changes are meant to give you options which do take some thinking about as to how best to use them. Your question actually raises many more questions that need to be answered before

any real advice can be given so you may need to make an appointment to speak to a financial advisor. Firstly, I would need to know how long is there left upon your mortgage. Are there any penalties for early redemption or over payment? I would want to know the interest rate applicable. I would then want to look at your salary and do a simple cash flow model for you. I would then want to look at how much was in your pension and how much are you contributing. I would want to look at projections to age 65 and perhaps 67 and 70. This would give me a picture of the facts, then I would want to just talk to you about your aims and intentions and ask about possible inheritance both to you and then onwards from you. This understanding of an individual is actually at the heart of the new legislation and rightly so. What works for you won’t be right for someone else. What is clear is that you can choose what you take and when you take it, to make life more in tune with your way of living. But remember you pay tax on what you draw over and above the tax free elements and when it’s gone it’s gone. If you would like to ask Robert a question please email info@bankhousegroup.co.uk Bank House Group, 125 The Promenade, Cheltenham, Glos. GL50 1NW. Call 01242 520074 or email info@bankhousegroup.co.uk. Visit www.bankhousegroup.co.uk for more information. Bank House Investments Ltd is registered in England and Wales no.5710191. Bank House Investment Management is Approved and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority no. 451839.

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Distinctive rooms and suites for large parties and smaller, more intricate celebrations AA rosette cuisine prepared by our own award-winning team of chefs Beautiful gardens for your wedding pictures and plenty of room for a traditional marquee for up to 200 guests Licensed for civil marriage ceremonies for 140 guests New Orangery function suite, for completion May 2015

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Food & Drink

A LOCAL TREASURE Shelle Duffin creates a springtime pie using some organic mushrooms In the Cotswolds we are spoilt for choice when it comes to local ingredients, whether it’s sourced via a leisurely amble through the beautiful countryside on a Sunday afternoon or from the many producers who dedicate their lives to bring us the very best of their home grown goods. With this special edition of Cotswold Style celebrating food and festivals across the Cotswolds, let’s meet one of the people

who have contributed to the reputation that has put our culinary mark firmly on the national map. Peter Howard from Chelbury Mushrooms has been growing organic mushrooms beneath the green hills of Southam for over 30 years - what he doesn’t know about a mushroom, isn’t worth knowing. Today at Haymes Farm, he grows an incredible 32 tonnes of

handpicked organic mushrooms, and that’s just in one week! With a successful distribution across the South of England, his passion remains supplying local people with an ingredient he’s grown so proud of. My recipe this month celebrates his famous shiitake mushroom, a dish that allows their flavour to be appreciated for the triumphant process in which they are grown.

• Pour in the stock and the wine, and bring the whole lot to the boil and allow to simmer until the sauce reduces and begins to thicken - this should take roughly 15 minutes • Remove from the heat and add two thirds of the pistachios (leave some for garnishing) and the fresh oregano. Season with salt and pepper, stir together and set aside to cool • Lay one sheet of filo pastry out on a board and brush with the melted butter and sprinkle with the dried oregano, place a second piece on top and repeat the process until you have brushed and sprinkled 6 layers of pastry • Grease a 20cm diameter pie dish with a little melted butter and line the layered filo pastry making sure it’s pressed into all the corners • Spoon in the chicken mixture, again making sure it goes into all the corners • Bring the edges of the pastry together to create the makings of a top for the filling • Brush the remaining layers of filo pastry with melted butter and sprinkle with oregano until you have 5 layers

• Roughly place it on top of the filling (it will give it the rustic look a pie should have and provide a little texture to the dish), gently pushing down to secure it • Brush the top with melted butter, sprinkle with the remaining chopped pistachios and season with salt and pepper • Bake in the oven for 15 minutes until the top is a crispy, golden brown and the pie is steaming hot when you cut into it • Serve with new potatoes and seasonal vegetables - baked asparagus goes really well with the dish.

Chicken, Bacon and Shiitake Mushroom Pie with Pistachio Serves 4

Ingredients: 200g Chelbury shiitake mushrooms 250g diced smoked bacon lardons 4 free range chicken breasts, diced 2 onions, finely chopped 2 garlic cloves, crushed 250ml chicken stock 250ml white wine 100g pistachio nuts, shelled and roughly chopped A bunch of oregano, roughly chopped 1x 250g pack of filo pastry 150g butter, melted 2tbsp dried oregano Olive Oil Salt & Pepper Method • Preheat the oven to 200°C • Gently heat a little olive oil in a pan, add the bacon lardons and cook until they begin to brown • Add the diced chicken and cook for 15 minutes until it turns a golden brown • Remove from the pan, taking care to leave the fat and set to one side • Return the pan to the hob, and gently fry the onions and garlic on a medium heat for 10 minutes until they begin to soften • Add the mushrooms and the meat mixture, and stir the ingredients together

Wine Suggestion: Pouilly Fume it bestows similar citrus notes to a good Sauvignon Blanc from The Loire Valley, however embodies more depth in flavour, which compliments the earthy taste of the shiitake mushrooms in this dish. Chelbury Organic Shiitake Mushrooms are available from Whole Foods in Cheltenham or visit the website www.chelburymushrooms.com

For more recipe ideas, reviews and articles, check out my blog – myboiledeggsandsoldiers@blogspot.com; or follow me on Twitter – @Shelle_Duffin, Instagram – shelleduffin, Pinterest – shelleduffin COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 111

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tranquil and relaxing The Dining Room, a fine dining experience by Michelin two-starred chef Martin Burge Le Mazot, casual brasserie serving lunch and dinner daily Award winning spa Aquarias

Telephone

Easton Grey Malmesbury Wiltshire SN16 0RB 01666 822 888 Email reservations@whatleymanor.com Web whatleymanor.com @Whatley_Manor

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Interview

R&R A monthly column exploring the perfect location to clear your head and spend quality time with the ‘lovely one’ in your life This month Emma Logan reviews THE KINGHAM PLOUGH I have discovered a real, little gem amongst our midst here in the Cotswolds. Five minutes from Stow-on-the-Wold will take you to the prettiest and most charming of villages, Kingham. Many of you may already know the area due to the (exorbitantly priced), Daylesford Organic Farm Shop, so without bankrupting yourself enroute, scuttle on past for another mile or so into the heart of the village, where you will find a very special place, The Plough. Chef proprietor, Emily Watkins and her husband, Miles Lampson’s awardwinning Cotswolds pub has achieved a happy balance between a ‘proper’ pub and an exceptional dining room. Since opening in 2007, following their ethos that provenance is the key to great food, they continue to source only the best local ingredients, both for the kitchen and bar. Their success is reflected in their numerous awards, including winners of BBC’s Great British Menu, Cotswold Food Hero of the Year and listed in The Times’ 25 Best Country Pubs for Food. The Kingham Plough continues to be recommended in the Michelin and AA guides amongst many others and now by Cotswold Style. Much as we love our combined family of four children and two dogs, the chap KB and I were celebrating my birthday and wanted to go somewhere local and atmospheric but quiet, romantic, downto-earth and certainly not tatty! With one of the first days of this glorious spring sunshine we have been experiencing, it was an absolute pleasure to settle onto the terrace with an afternoon’s refreshing cider and be able to talk in peace. Talk, laugh, discuss, this was a place we could be uninterrupted for some afternoon rays and just be together. We loved the quirky touches surrounding us such as a large, fresh Jersey Milk booth which dispenses a pint for a couple of coins, for those locals who may just run out at tea time. All the six bedrooms have recently

been refurbished providing exquisite comfort and provide a real bolthole for a night or two. They are elegantly furnished in a ‘Cotswold Style’, with plenty of amenities you won’t find in five star hotels, such as a mini bar fridge, proper capsule coffee machine and large bottles of Neal’s Yard products. Our bathroom had a beautiful, large marblesurrounded tub and a walk-in shower with those very funky showerheads. Our room (No. 6, which I do recommend you request) was surprisingly large and I especially liked the array of fresh flowers, which so sweetened the room. We are both foodies but that night, we really didn’t feel like the Michelin style dining that has become so apparent throughout the Cotswolds. We hoped for a creative and tasty but traditional menu and that was most certainly delivered by Emily’s imaginative skills in the kitchen. We headed to the dining room full of lively art that reminded me of my parents’ elegant home, complete with genteel porcelain plates and cutlery. The Cotswold Rarebit on Homemade Sourdough is something we both still ‘lick-our-lips’ over and though I have tried to emulate this since, alas with little success. The dish sounds as simple as dipping Hovis soldiers into a cheesy sauce but the truth is wholesome bread with a Rarebit that is more like a small plate of cheese fondue with a crispy topping – just delicious. I also devoured a portion of Scotched Quails Eggs and have vowed never to eat either the ‘big’ version again, nor serve my rubbery, pre-shelled Quails Eggs from Waitrose at the school Parents

Day picnic – even if they do supply the Celery Salt! KB started with a Crab and Wild Garlic Cocktail served with watercress, before being deliriously ecstatic over his Hanger Steak served with bone marrow butter, onion rings and the best, crispiest triple cooked chips whilst I continued my birthday feast with a delicious Chicken, Bacon and Mushroom pie served with Daylesford kale. The puddings and I will reiterate this, are the best, Rhubarb Lardy Cake and Chocolate and Salted Peanut Tart – decadence of the highest. A special mention must also be to the breakfast. I resolutely refuse to eat tinned baked beans and was therefore most disappointed I hadn’t ordered what was offered on the menu (and subsequently helped myself to the chap’s entire portion). This was a proper homemade recipe of Emily’s, using kidney beans with a fresh tomato sauce. Do not make the same mistake as me and make sure they’re on your plate! As a family-run pub, the Kingham Plough is both child and dog friendly and maintains a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere that is comfortable, welcoming and inclusive and this is really what we found. Thankfully though for the night we were there and much as we love them, none of our children or canines were in sight! The Kingham Plough Tel: 01608 658327 www.thekinghamplough.co.uk

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Pets

DID YOU KNOW... The life expectancy of cats has more than doubled since 1930 – from 8 to 18 years! Animal advice from our friends at Vets on the Park It may seem strange to you but your seven year old cat is now considered to be getting to the stage of life where certain age-related conditions become more common. During this senior stage of life your cat’s needs have changed but much of this change will have gone unnoticed. After all, you don’t look or feel very different to how you did seven years ago when you first bought your new kitten home. However, comparing the age of your cat to their ‘human age’ will help you to understand just how important this stage of your cat’s life can be. Did you know that a seven year old cat is considered to be of a similar age to a 60 year old person? However old age is not an illness and does not necessarily mean ill health. It is simply a time of life when several conditions are more likely to occur and when extra attention should be paid to your cat’s needs. Certain conditions start to become more common in cats from age seven and by paying particular attention to your older cat’s special needs

you can make sure they live the longest, healthiest life possible. Many vet clinics will run special senior health profiles for older cats. These usually involve a blood and urine sample and often checking the blood pressure. Just like in older people, older cats will get primary high blood pressure (hypertension) and if left untreated this can cause kidney problems, blindness and even death. Dental disease is also more common as cats get older and it is perfectly normal for a healthy cat to need two or three dental procedures to scale and polish the teeth in their lifetime. Again the list of conditions we are more likely to encounter in older cats is very similar to that our doctors find in us as we get older – heart, kidney and liver problems plus trouble with eye sight and hearing. Older cats may have a reduced sense of smell and so may go off their normal diet. The good news is that veterinary medicine has moved on a lot in recent years and senior care is now very well

developed. Why not ask your vet about a Senior Health profile for your cat today? For more advice or information please call Vets on the Park on 01242 517199 or email us at nurses@vetsonthepark.co.uk www.vetsonthepark.co.uk

for your pets in your life - your vet for life

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Fantastic panoramic views over Painswick Valley

Freshly cooked food and local real ales make a visit to The Edgemoor Inn a real treat... The Edgemoor oﬀers an impressive selection of home-cooked dishes, including many vegetarian and fresh ﬁsh options, along with homemade favourites and grills.

The lounge bar, has a light and modern feel which extends to the whole property. Outside on the patio area is a perfect place for a snack or quiet drink whilst admiring the panoramic views over Painswick and its glorious countryside. The Edgemoor Inn oﬀers the very best in traditional Cotswold pub and restaurant dining, warm welcome in delightful surroundings with well-presented homecooked food. This is a combination that’s hard to beat.

The Edgemoor Inn Edge, near Stroud, Gloucester GL6 6ND

Call us today

01452 813 576

www.edgemoor-inn.com

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Review

Restaurant Review

The Edgemoor Inn ‘There’s More To The Edge Than Meets The Eye’, says Hannah Oldman Chris Bayes and his wife have been in the restaurant and pub trade all their working lives. They have owned the late 19th Century, Edgemoor Inn for 25 years and a total refurbishment 7 years ago, has resulted in an open-plan spacious bar and restaurant with large panoramic windows that allows customers to fully appreciate the magnificent view across the valleys towards Nailsworth. No expense has been spared on the interior, with Nubuck chairs and sofas and a dining area, which is uncluttered and relaxing. This is a real family run business. Chris runs front of house, his wife cooks alongside the head chef and their two sons and daughter help out throughout the inn, when they can. Produce is locally sourced as much as possible and I noticed that fresh fish makes up a significant part of the menu, a real treat and a refreshing change. Chris is laid back and professional and I could see immediately that all his customers are very important to him. He is there when they need him but makes sure they are left in peace to relax and enjoy themselves when they don't. The Edgemoor is a popular lunchtime pub. Being on the Cotswold Way, it's an ideal and welcome spot for walkers. The large terrace with ample seating and fabulous views is the perfect place to recharge the batteries. It's popular with cyclists too, providing a welcome break

from the relentless hills. Don't worry about walking in wearing your extra padded cycle shorts and cycling shoes, no one will bat an eyelid! If you are looking for lunch, dinner or just a drink The Edgemoor is well worth a visit. We could not fault the food and were in no doubt that everything had been freshly prepared and cooked to order. Portions are generous and the prices reflect the high quality of food and preparation. The wine menu made a refreshing change and Chris's choice of beers too, including plenty of locally made ales, again unusual and interesting and one of the perks of drinking in a free house! It's hard in the pub trade to please everyone but Chris and his family team are doing a very fine job. I chatted with some locals that like to pop in for a pint or two (what a giggle) and noted the mix of

clientele throughout the rest of the evening; youngsters, families and couples and honestly I think this is a place for everyone. The Wednesday night special is rump steak, produced by Nick Brown at Longlevens and there is a good choice on the vegetarian section of the menu, which Chris says has always been important to him. Traditional Sunday roast is always a huge favourite and I can't wait to call in on my next walk for a proper roast and glass of wine, sitting on the patio, soaking up the view with all three pooches at my feet. I don't usually do pudding but in this case it would have been rude not to. Pancetta and very fresh juicy berries, heaven! Would we go again? Yes definitely! Would we recommend to friends? Yes definitely! Would we meet up with a group of friends? Yes definitely! Would we plan our walk to the Edgemoor? Yes definitely! Would we cycle to the Edgemoor? Yes, but I would have to change out of my padded shorts, most definitely! The Edgemoor Inn Gloucester Road, Edge, Gloucestershire, GL6 6ND Tel: 01452 813576 www.edgemoorinnltd.co.uk

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2a Regent Street, Cheltenham, GL50 1HR

07807 786 944

www.lilygins.co.uk

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Fitness Tips

Fitness Expert Luciano Kydd asks...

Are you getting enough Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz? How many hours of sleep do you average per night? If it’s less than 7, you’re probably not doing your brain and body any favours by staying up late checking everyone’s updates on Facebook and Twitter. Some of us wear lack of sleep like a badge of honour. With quotes such as “I was up half the night working on that presentation.” Or, “I went to an all nighter and didn’t get in till 4am and was up this morning at 6am but I feel ok.” If we don’t proudly declare poor or inadequate sleep, we accept it as a product of our busy lives. I’m personally guilty of all the above, especially during my time in the army, and if I’m honest it sucks. My question is why would you want to feel ok when you could feel “AWESOME” and the truth is that you need good sleep. I hear you ask why is getting adequate sleep so important? Balancing your sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems and getting rest at night are just as important as taking the right presentation to your meeting or dressing the kids for school. Maybe even more important - since creating the right internal environment for growth is an essential part of any musclebuilding or fat loss process. You need to start believing that good sleep is not a luxury but a necessity. Getting at least 7 hours of sleep will help your body recover from your workouts, rejuvenate your brain and improve your overall lifestyle. Getting less than 7 hours

can slow muscle growth and reduce brain power making us less productive at work and causing accidents to others and oneself both in the work place and at home. Plus it turns us into grumpy individuals who are no fun to be around. When we sleep, we “restore” our bodies. That’s because sleep stimulates the growth and rejuvenation of the immune, nervous, skeletal and muscular systems. When we don’t get enough sleep, we can’t properly control our glucose and insulin levels. This means body fat and blood sugar problems and eventual obesity and type 2 diabetes occurs. Sleep also improves our memory formation and operations as we think and learn better when well rested. While different people function best with different amounts of sleep each night, less people thrive with fewer than 7 hours per night. When your body doesn’t get enough sleep, your muscles don’t have enough time to fully recover from the day’s workout. I have experienced this on occasions when I have to wake up at night to check on my daughter when ill, making my training performance lacklustre at best and staying awake beyond midnight seems to increase the likelihood of gaining fat. These associations have a “doseresponse” relationship: The later your bedtime and the shorter your sleep hours, the more body fat you gain and the less muscle you build. Not only does sleep deprivation mess up

your metabolism but many people find that late night is the perfect time for a unhealthy snack and that it also leads to over eating the next day because our hormones (such as Leptin and Ghrelin) are out of sink along with our cortisol levels. Finally, abnormal circadian rhythms have been associated with depression, bipolar disorder and seasonal affective disorder. A final but important note about sleep, is that inadequate sleep also disrupts your anabolic hormones and can lead to cardiovascular problems and more – but let’s focus on the most important message here: You need good, regular sleep with a good sleep routine. Sure, we live in a busy world but we don’t have to be victims. While we have more opportunities to do things other than sleep — on demand TV (another reason why you shouldn’t stay up late), fibre optic Internet services, email at the touch of a button, extended work shifts, family commitments and more, at the end of the day most of the time we choose what we do. A lack of sleep usually reflects our priorities rather than real constraints. That’s great news, because we can do something about it. Written by Luciano Kydd A weight and Fatloss Coach based in Cheltenham. For more details on using his services, email at info@kyddfitness.co.uk Website: www.kyddfitness.co.uk

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End of Season

Awards Dinner Join Gloucester Rugby at

The Centaur, Cheltenham Racecourse to celebrate the 2014-15 season on

Tuesday 19 May 7pm – 1am The evening will be hosted by Jill Douglas TV & sports presenter, followed by after dinner entertainment. Tickets £100 per person + VAT and includes:

Main Club Sponsor

• •

3 course meal

• • •

Review of the season and annual awards

Gloucester Rugby player/management on table (subject to availability) Memorabilia auction After dinner entertainment

Dress code – Black Tie

BOOK NOW

Call 0871 871 8781 option 3 or email endofseasonawardsdinner@gloucesterrugby.co.uk *calls to this number cost 10p per minute from a BT landline. Charges from other networks may vary.

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Sport

ON TO THE FLAT Betlive Radio’s expert racing pundit Nigel Aplin, introduces us to the new racing season t’s the start of a new school year in a manner of speaking. For those slightly confused let me briefly explain how Flat racing works. Let’s start with a basic fact; the ‘Classic’ races can only be won by three year old colts and fillies. The 1000 Guineas for fillies and 2000 Guineas for colts. Both are run at Newmarket in early May. They are both run over one mile, perfectly suited for Newmarket's infamous Rowley Mile track. The Epsom Derby for is for colts, although fillies can enter, and Oaks for fillies. Both are run at Epsom over a distance of 1 mile, 4 furlongs and 10 yards The St. Leger for both three-year-old colts and fillies is run in September and is the longest running race of the series, having been inaugurated in 1776 at Doncaster where it is still hosted today. The distance is 1 mile, 6 furlongs and 132 yards; a testing distance for the last race in an extraordinary series. Horses run as two years old and the hope is that class horses mature enough over the winter to contest the Classic races. This means a great deal of fun is to be had taking horses at big prices, that

come the day may be a lot shorter. It’s rather like solving a cryptic crossword but can be equally rewarding. The Derby is an excellent place to start. The first real test for the young threeyear-old can be the 2,000 Guineas run over a mile, the question here is that whilst horses that can compete have the speed, do they have the stamina for The Derby distance of a mile and a half? Chester in early May hosts one of the first big racing festivals of the year and is essential for the ‘Cheshire Set’ to attend. The Chester Vase is one of the racing highlights of Chester Racecourse's May Meeting and is run over one and a half miles around the tight Roodee. The Dee Stakes is another Derby Trial run at Chester's May Meeting and has again produced winners of the Epsom Derby, in the past run over ten furlongs. Lingfield hosts its own trial run over eleven furlongs and with a little under three weeks until the big race itself, horses can jump to prominence in the betting with a good performance here. This best Irish Derby trial is the Derrinstown Stud Derby Trial and has revealed some real flat racing superstars in the past. A Group 2 contest run over ten

furlongs at the tough Leopardstown racecourse, this trial will give you a really good idea of what the Irish have to offer the Derby. The last of the recognised Derby trials is the Dante Stakes run at the York Festival by the same name. This contest run over ten furlongs is the last chance for some of the Derby protagonists to get a run under their belts and is usually the best guide to The Derby. Have a look at the runners for each of these races on the day of the race itself. Check those runners who are definitely lined up for The Derby and their corresponding ante post prices. Take a punt on your fancied runner to win The Derby whose price will then be an awful lot shorter if it wins the respective trial. Unfortunately by the time this goes to press a few of the trials will have been run but I will be investing a few shekels on Sir Isaac Newton and Giovanni Canaletto currently at big prices. Toodle Pip. Nigel Aplin, formally head of broadcast for William Hill, is founder of www.betliveradio.com, which features a daily digest of betting banter.

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Uncovered Cotswolds

LOV£ FOR SALE Jo Jo Schofield escorts us around the Cotswolds t is widely known that the oldest recorded profession known to man and woman is indeed escorting. Being an inquisitive sole for all things risqué, I decided to investigate the fascinating history of this taboo subject, which was first established well before our existence, hundreds of years before we were even a champagne twinkle in our parents eyes. There is much publicised evidence to suggest that this really is the world's oldest profession dating back to 17th century BC. I decided to delve deeper exploring the high and low end escorting services that our beautiful, quiet Cotswold haven can offer to its residents. The first thing that hit me is the sheer abundance of escorts in Cheltenham and the surrounding areas; there are literally hundreds if not thousands. The first few sites that I viewed allow the girls, boys and lady boys to post their own individual adverts showing what exactly is on offer, via graphic photographs and tantalising descriptions. There is a beautiful lady boy called Talia that can take you to “new heights of passion” for a mere £130 per hour, or an “outrageously, horny lady” from Swindon that has relocated to Cheltenham and will happily visit your home for £160 per hour. The options and possibilities are endless, there is everything that you could ever desire; English, Spanish, Thai, German, Romanian, blond, brunette, ginger, boys, girls and lady boys. This once underground and sleazy, street corner affair, has really become a slick and accessible pick and mix of whatever sexual delight you fancy. As I am trawling these websites I almost feel like I am ordering a Domino’s pizza but obviously the sexual version; you select who you want and how long you want them for and then simply text or phone through your order whilst patiently waiting at home for the goods to arrive. Even the “madam” or “pimp” has been transformed into a fully functioning website that simply takes a monthly fee

“THIS ONCE UNDERGROUND AND SLEAZY, STREET CORNER AFFAIR, HAS REALLY BECOME A SLICK AND ACCESSIBLE PICK AND MIX OF WHATEVER SEXUAL DELIGHT YOU FANCY” from its advertisers - it’s literally new age love for sale. I have a slight feeling of guilt, that in my mind I’m comparing all of this to a car boot sale for second-hand tits and arse; it’s just too un exclusive and un romantic. Surely in the back of your mind when your little parcel or pussy arrives, you must be thinking how many have been serviced before me today? Looking into the more exclusive world of escorts in the Cotswolds, you can order a courtesan, which promises to be of the most elite variety. These boys and girls have beautiful, professional photographs, lovingly prepared and draped in sexy underwear and often with prior tutoring on how to be a perfect escort by the madam, who is normally retired and no doubt has plenty of

mileage that she can share. These elite escort websites paint a much more personal picture of the service that they supply. But let’s face it when you click onto the ordering part of the website, these boys and girls are also available by the hour so surely it’s just the same as the lower cost, tits and arse online car boot sales but packaged better? Anyway I always say, each to their own and life is short and should be enjoyed, so go for it. I am now wondering though, how many of the smartly dressed boys and girls floating around the hotels of Cheltenham and the Cotswolds have been ordered through these little sites and are waiting for their hungry “punter” to pick them up… COTSWOLD STYLE MAY 2015 123

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rugby

camps

MAY HALF TERM

FOOTBALL & RUGBY CAMPS FOOTBALL CAMP TUESDAY 26TH - FRIDAY 29TH MAY RUGBY CAMP THURSDAY 28TH - FRIDAY 29TH MAY PRICES FROM £10 PER DAY WWW.SD-SPORT.CO.UK TEL: 07813 800 238 @ ALL SAINTS ACADEMY, CHELTENHAM FREE PLACES FOR 6 AND 7 YEAR OLDS ON THE TUESDAY AND WEDNESDAY OF FOOTBALL CAMP IF BOOKED BY 15TH MAY

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Claire in the County

Local

Festivals, Food and Frivolities!

The clocks have changed and spring is here and at last – time to plan some summer fun, says Claire Thayers estivals – top of the list…time to get the diary out! I was a late starter – I own up, I HATE camping and the thought of a ‘humming’ portaloo after three days of constant use in the heat, a pack of wet wipes and no shower in sight … it’s enough to put most people off… but I was brave and I attended my FIRST festival at the tender age of 47! Three days, two nights in the awning of my friends VW camper van, parked alongside two other camper vans and two tents – a gaggle of my bestest friends, child free and ready to party. The festival will remain nameless, for fear of someone remembering that first night - the sight of me giggling uncontrollably after a nibble of a dubious ‘brownie’, propped up in the corner of a marquee, on my own, laughing at everyone and everything. I really didn’t care, that was a first for me! I don’t remember much (can’t imagine why), except a blurred memory of jugs of Pimms outside the tents parked off on rickety old deck chairs and a BBQ of burnt sausages before literally stumbling over to the big tent to listen to some bands. The munchies were curtailed with more delicious food from amazing stands and yet more drink – heavenly! For those who were brave enough at this particular festival there was even an array of exciting things to do such as a helter skelter, yoga classes, even flesh eating fish who nibbled dead skin off your feet. But for me, the highlight was the ‘silent disco’; all of us dancing like only mothers can, worse for wear, head phones on, listening to our various different tracks,

“THE FESTIVAL WILL REMAIN NAMELESS, FOR FEAR OF SOMEONE REMEMBERING THAT FIRST NIGHT.” doing our own thing and thinking we were wild and free and back in our youth – big box, little box! My children would have been horrified. In truth, no one cared everyone was there to have a good time, so friendly, so lovely, all ages and everyone just up for some fun. The first morning I woke up with my friend on the air bed next to me, realising that we had set up camp on a slight incline, with feet slightly higher than our pillows and the realisation that we were ‘cast’. Neither of us could get up for laughing before my friend used the excuse ‘my tits are too heavy’. Priceless. The rest of the weekend was spent ‘hanging out’, listening to all sorts of bands in the sun, enjoying plenty of wine, sampling lots of delicious food

from the local stands and laughing – non-stop laughing, till it hurt. Yes the bed was uncomfortable, yes the portaloo was pretty awful, yes I used about 100 packs of wet wipes, yes I missed the shower – but would I have missed that weekend – not for the world! So if you want to get away from it all, leave your mobile phone behind (and ideally the kids!), pack up your tent, with the obligatory hunter wellies, boxes of wine (who needs food) and just do it! My tip…. make sure you go with a gang of your best friends, and don’t be shy, dance your socks off - it’s the best stress buster there is! Claire Thayers & Associates, Corporate Social Responsibility, South West www.clairethayers.co.uk

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Gatcombe Left: Gabby Baldock from South Wales successfully navigates the complications of the Land Rover Water Combination Below: Sir Mark Todd, New Zealandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most honoured rider, pensively awaits the start of his competition

Above: Vittoria Panizzon representing Italy receives her prizes from HRH The Princess Royal and Richard Duncan Sponsorship Manager Land Rover

Rain stopped play at Land Rover Gatcombe Park Spring Horse Trials

Above: Paul Bates the Publisher of Cotswold Style congratulates Sarah Griffiths the winner of our reader competition

Above: HRH The Princess Royal and Pattie Biden keeping a weather eye on the impending gale Below: As the Show Jumping phase continued the ground conditions steadily worsened

Sadly, heavy wind and torrential rain caused the organisers of this years Land Rover Spring Gatcombe Park event to cancel the second day (Sunday) of competition. The popular local event had attracted an entry in excess of 600 horse and rider combinations over the weekend but the ground conditions prevented the event continuing on Sunday. With the Friday being a beautiful sunny day with a light wind that dried the course to perfection the organisers, officials and riders were all looking forward to an excellent weekend of competition with riders representing thirteen countries amongst the full entry list. Especially as Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most successful rider William Fox-Pitt was present with seven horses. But it was not to be.

Above: Steward Peter Hervey, Anthony Pastore Land Rover Consultant and Pattie Biden the Event Organiser discuss the Prize Giving Below: The view across the valley towards Minchinhampton reveals the steadily darkening sky

Below: Glass Trophies and Rosettes. Some of the generous Land Rover Awards

Photography by Fiona Scott-Maxwell & Wye Valley Photography

Left and below: Specially commissioned wooden animal sculptures decorated several of the Cross Country fences

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Views

It’s time to clean up their act, says Sandra Paul y the time you read this, the election will have taken place and we may or may not have a new Prime Minister. Although the parties have been doing much to try and show a clear difference in their policies and moral compass, to most of us they are indistinguishable. Politicians? Pah! Despite Parliament doing its best to clean up its act including some MPs going to jail, the public has not forgotten the duplicity and fake sincerity of all parties. So does it really matter what each of them is promising to do for us in their manifesto? Not in the least. They can promise all they like but when they actually achieve power we will be told their hands are tied by Brussels or there is no money left in the coffers. The same disillusionment and cynicism is aimed at the ‘moneymen’. From Gordon Gecko’s infamous Wall Street portrayal and proud statement, ‘greed is good’ in the ‘90’s to the more recent excesses we’ve witnessed in the UK including Sir Fred’s fiefdom at RBS despite the scrutiny, reviews, sanctions, new legislation, recession, redress in

some areas, we still don’t trust those who run our financial institutions. Whatever they say, including, “we’re on your side”, frankly, it’s unbelievable! After a couple of years of ‘mea culpa’ from the moneymen it’s clear that the same practices are starting up, once again. The company reports published annually by registered companies are showing a clever use of the small print – particularly when it comes to bonuses and pensions. Where once journalists and shareholders would turn to the remuneration page for salary information, now they need a spell from Hogwart’s to decipher what has clearly been designed to muddle muggles. So whom do we trust? There was a time when we unflinchingly supported the NHS and GPs. Again, we are watching the demise of a great institution that has been mismanaged (at the very least). Where those at the very top are happy to award themselves hikes in their NHS pensions or annual salaries while the rest of the NHS almost falls to its knees. The revelations of NHS CEOs retiring for one day to exploit loopholes

in the NHS retirement rules and then returning to their jobs the next day, is unbelievable. All parties are demanding a review or inquiry into the debacle. However, as we are fully aware, a full investigation may not result in change. It has been six years since the Chilcot Inquiry into the Iraq invasion began and we are still no nearer having the results revealed. Why? Because it may affect the election. The Inquiry was instigated so that lessons can be learned and I’ve no doubt that these noble intentions are similar to those demanding an inquiry into the NHS Boardroom pay saga. The general public has lost faith in our once great institutions and reviews, investigations, sanctions, even jail sentences have not done a lot to restore our faith. 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

Off to Badminton Kate Justice visits the world’s greatest three-day equestrian event ay is the month we host one of the biggest equestrian events in the world… here in the Cotswolds. The Duke of Beaufort’s staggeringly beautiful estate in Gloucestershire is the setting for the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials. This sporting occasion is known world-wide as being the international pinnacle of Three Day Eventing (the sport that Zara Phillips does). In any year, contenders for the title will range from teenage athletes, to those not far off drawing a pension… from the massively experienced who’ve ridden the course many times over, to the first timers who have dreamt of riding there since they were old enough to sit on a pony – and also… men and women are equal. It takes an absolutely enormous and almost unfathomable amount of dedication, expertise and bravery to get to this championship and every single rider on the circuit dreams of competing and winning here. However, it’s not only about the sport. The shopping is and always will be one of the main highlights of the week. It is futile to try and avoid being distracted by the incredible retail facilities. Trade stands arrive from all over the country and provide the opportunity to buy pretty

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much anything you can think of. How about a dog bed? A horse blanket? Kitchen table and sofa? Or even a £70,000 necklace if you’re in the market for one. That’s before we mention stable blocks, horse boxes, tractors, gazebos, garden water features, clothes, sunglasses or maybe just a Champagne cocktail to enjoy by the lake in front of Badminton House? Yes, at least two actual whole pubs materialise almost out of the ground and provide such sumptuous conditions to relax in, that it takes physical effort to remind you that when Eventing isn’t on, it’s simply a field. Catering has also stepped up a notch or twenty at these outdoor venues. Coffee, sausages, cheese and even sandwiches are now all available as Gourmet versions of their former selves. Of course, many people go to watch the incredible and famous athletes – equine as well as human, but even nonhorsey types have had a right good blast at ‘Badders’. There’s something infectious about the electricity in the air at an international competition, when it’s just up the road from where you live. Tens of millions brought in to the local economy and a hearty and robust relationship with local car company Mitsubishi who have been sponsoring the

competition with great aplomb for almost three decades, give us even more reason to love it. Nowadays, there’s a grassroots element to the competitive side of things and so the days leading up to the big 4 star international, see British Eventing host a Championship at the same venue aimed more at amateurs or those getting a taste for the sport. It means that, potentially, Badminton – the Wembley of Eventing is now a possibility for any serious equestrian… professional or not. Anyway, if you find yourself headed to the contest, as willing spectator, die-hard fan or sceptical first-timer… remember there’s a fairground, a Champagne bar, jewellery shop and plenty of toilets. The big day (cross country), is Saturday and most importantly, the lowest score WINS. I’ll see you there. Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials May Wed 6th- Sun 10th May. www.badminton-horse.co.uk see website for coach trips. If you would like to share your stories with Kate Justice, please email the Editor at editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

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