Cotswold Style December 2012

Cotswold Style

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INTERVIEWS | EVENTS | FASHION | BEAUTY | PROPERTY | BUSINESS | DINING | SPORT

GET PERFECT PARTY HAIR WITHOUT THE FUSS Gloucester Rugby’s

ALEX BROWN

December 2012

Win

5 sets of handcrafted chocolates to give away

LAST-MINUTE GIFTS

Inspiration for stocking fillers

32

Win

A designer hat for 2013

Meet Cheltenham Racecourse’s

ANDY CLIFTON

Pages of Christmas...

Festive fashion, recipes, hosting and more!

£2.50

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75 53 inside your

125

S

December issue...

10 Out and About

49 Surtees Speaks

73 Street Style

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

One woman’s honest account of how to lighten the load on Christmas day

Can you spot yourself on the streets of Cheltenham this month?

51 Mighty Mistletoe

16 Real Life

75 Party Perfect

Camilla Bassett-Smith ends the horticultural year with a favourite

Lisa von Hallwyll talks to us about her fantastic millinery business

20 The 12 Gifts of Christmas Two pages of last-minute shopping inspiration, here on your doorstep

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

47 How to play host Sophie Taylor supplies us with the perfect guide to a super day

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53 Beauty is there...

Make sure that you are perfectly prepared for the party season with this indispensable guide

Gardening tips with Jon Hodder, Head Gardener at Sudeley Castle

79 Perfect Party Hair

57 Peace on Earth?

How to achieve the most glamorous looks for your locks with Laura Leigh

Niall Foster airs his views on his one wish for the year ahead

81 Art Couture Painswick

62 Vintage Glamour Decadently divine partyweart to make you shine like a star from head-to-toe

70 Winter Wonders Luxurious lingerie for Christmas gifts

We meet Mila Harris-Mussi, the winner of the Art College category

85 Meet the winners!

The results of our 10 years younger competition are revealed

DECEMBER 2012

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47

122 111 62 89 Winter Skin SOS

125 Reader Competition

Must-have skincare saviours, just in time for your Christmas list!

We have five sets of handcrafted chocolates to give away

91 Business Style

127 Don’t panic!

With Brunsdon, Rickerbys and the Surviving Winter 2012 Appeal

Cracking Christmas wine tips from The Wine Tipster

101 Travel feature

130 Alex Brown

Max Le Grand tells the tale of his trek over the Himalayas

An interview with the outstanding Gloucester Rugby player

105 Women in Business

135 Shane Duff

111 Beards Skyfall Premiere

This month we meet Independent Financial Advisor, Julie Jelf

Comment from the former Captain of Cheltenham Town Football Club

128 Whole Foods is here!

119 Restaurant Review

139 Racing Style

Racehorse Trainer Kim Bailey eats at Somewhere Else in Cirencester

Cathryn Fry interviews Cheltenham Racecourse’s Andy Clifton

122 Sweet Christmas Treats

146 Kate Justice

Shelle Duffin’s festive gift ideas

On keeping the kids entertained

DECEMBER 2012

Style events 14 Day at the Races 103 Vinegar Hill Shopping Evening

133 Last Night of The Proms 136 Cotswold Hunt Team Chase

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Sebastian Sellers

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SEBASTIAN SELLERS

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

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

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

1-3 Old Coalyard Farm Industrial Estate West End, Northleach, GL54 3HE Tel: 01451 861864 Fax: 01451 861865 info@sebastiansellers.co.uk www.sebastiansellers.co.uk DECEMBER 2012

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SEASONS

GREETINGS G REETINGS ETINGS INGS S FROM HOTEL DU VIN

JOIN USS THIS CHRIS CHRISTMAS STMAS FOR LLUNCH UNCH OR DIN NNER N NER DINNER

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FROM JUST £

.50 PER PERSON

MAKE YOUR BOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS NOW

01242 588 450 events.cheltenham@hotelduvin.com www.HOTELDUVIN.com

TERMS AND CONDITIONS APPLY. AVAILABLE IN THE BISTRO OR PRIVATE DINING ROOMS. PRICES INCLUDE VAT. £10 DEPOSIT TO BE TAKEN AT THE TIME OF BOOKING. A DISCRETIONARY 10% SERVICE CHARGE WILL BE ADDED TO YOUR BILL. OFFER AVAILABLE ON SELECTED DATES ONLY. SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY.

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DECEMBER 2012

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welcome Senior Partner Paul Bates 01242 220239 paul@stylemagazines.co.uk

Partner Mark Cuzner 07917 821577 mark@stylemagazines.co.uk

Web Editor Eve Holmes eholmes@stylemagazines.co.uk Account Manager Emma Logan 07733 112182 elogan696@btinternet.com

Business Development Manager Adam Robinson

07917 175919

adam@stylemagazines.co.uk Office Manager Carley O’Dea

01242 220239

office@stylemagazines.co.uk Production Consultant Hilary Collier 01242 220239 hilary@stylemagazines.co.uk

Editorial Designer Nick Clark nclark@stylemagazines.co.uk Features Writer Eric Barton 01242 220239 Photographer Spencer McPherson 07773 374316 spencer@allintheimage.co.uk

Photographer Rob Wheatman 07533 368571 wheatman@me.com

Photographer Phil Stevens 07875 739995 phil@allintheimage.co.uk

editor’s foreword

Here it is! Your fab and festive December issue, crammed full of Christmas inspiration, as we head nearer and nearer to the magical day itself. Whether you are a last-minute shopper or one of those impossibly organised people who has everything all wrapped up

by September 1st, you will find plenty of ideas to inspire you inside this month’s issue. Our glorious Gift Guide on page 20 will save you time having to think of the perfect presents for family and friends. Why not sit back with a glass of mulled wine and peruse the local offerings to fill stockings with from the comfort of your own home? Our advertisers share their Christmas messages with you on page 22, and don’t leave the house without reading Laura Leigh’s guide to achieveing the ultimate party hair on page 79.

As many of us begin to focus that little bit more on food at this time of year, in a bid to keep every kind of appetite catered for, we have some mouthwatering recipes from our regular food writers. Shelle Duffin shares her sweet treats on page 122 that work fantastically well as homemade gifts for the thrifty. And to warm you up, Ali Nightingale explains how to create the ultimate comfort food with her recipe for lamb shanks on page 113.

Just because it is Christmas it doesn’t mean that we turn our back on sport.

Gloucester Rugby star, Alex Brown, tells us all about what is in store for his benefit year with the club on page 130 and Shane Duff concludes his article from last month’s issue on page 135. Plus, don’t miss Cathryn Fry’s interview with Cheltenham Racecourse’s Andy Clifton on page 139.

We would like to wish you all a very Happy Christmas and thank you for your support throughout 2012... and look forward to seeing you in 2013!

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

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20,390

www.facebook.com/ CotswoldStyleMagazine Facebook fans

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Cotswold Style

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.

Cover image: www.shutterstock.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.

DECEMBER 2012

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FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA Saturday 1st December to Monday 31st December.

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day than by indulging in the great British tradition of Afternoon Tea. Recline by the fire in Mallory’s cosy lounge and sip a warming winter Pimm’s, followed by a selection of sandwiches and festive treats. Available Monday to Friday through December.£19.50 per person.

(Excludes Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day). www.mallory.co.uk CHRISTMAS GIFT AND FARMERS MARKET Saturday 1st and Sunday 2nd December Carol Singing 6pm on Saturday Santas Grotto at 3.30pm on Sunday www.cotswoldswheatsheaf.com

Festive Afternoon Tea – Mince Pies, Christmas Cake & Mulled Wine. £8.50 Per Person. (Excludes Christmas Eve, Christmas Day & Boxing Day). www.kingscampden.co.uk

FESTIVE DINING AT THE GREENWAY HOTEL AND SPA Saturday 1st December to Monday 31st December The Greenway Hotel and Spa offers the perfect setting for Festive dining celebrations. Sip pre-meal aperitifs or mulled wine in the cosy glow of the Lounge log fires before being seated for a delicious seasonal meal.

Choose from the restaurant or for private dining; the Austen Room is perfect for smaller parties up to 12 guests and the traditional Oak Panel Room can seat up to 22 guests. Festive lunch - £20.00 per person for 2 courses or £26.00 per person for 3 courses both including coffee and a mince pie.

Evening dining - £29.50 per person for 3 courses including coffee and a mince pie Festive parties - £35.00 per person including mulled wine on arrival, tea, coffee & mince pies, crackers. All festive parties will receive complimentary Festive novelties - hats, crackers and streamers. www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com FESTIVE AFTERNOON TEA THROUGHOUT DECEMBER Saturday 1st December to Monday 31st December What better way to spend a dark cold

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FESTIVE COOKING AT THE FOODWORKS IN COLESBOURNE THIS DECEMBER Tuesday 4th December A vegetarian Christmas, be inspired by our wonderful vegetarian chef with some delicious alternatives to Turkey, watch her create some mouth watering starters and mains, bring along a friend and enjoy the evening with a glass of mulled wine and a Christmas Carol!! 79.30pm. Telephone & Bookings: 01242 870538. www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk BUBBLY BASH Thursday 6th December

At The De La Bere Court, The Ellenborough Park Hotel Raffle and Auction to include a Celebrity cooking and dining experience, Bubbly & Canapés. 6.30pm to 9pm£25 per person. For tickets please contact:

In association with

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com bubblybash2gcf@gmail.com only 120 tickets available.

THE EVERYMAN THEATRE ASSOCIATION (The Friends of The Everyman) Friday 7th December The Everyman Theatre association (The Friends of The Everyman) are holding their Christmas Supper in Matcham’s Restaurant at the Everyman in December when Members and Guests are all welcome. The Speaker is Jacquie Crago, the current Voice Coach for War Horse in London. Tickets, to include a 2 Course Supper and a Glass of Wine, are available from Lesley Whittal on 01242 263713.

FESTIVE DINNER WITH CAROLS Thursday 13th December Festive Dinner with Carols. 3 Course Dinner including mulled wine on arrival. £32.50 Per Person www.kingscampden.co.uk DANCING QUEEN Friday 7th December A fantastic night filled with Abba goodness! Including hits like Waterloo, Mamma Mia, Money Money Money and more, the show captures the sounds of ABBA lyrically, visually and musically.

The first half features a Grease tribute, including Summer Nights, Look At Me I’m Sandra Dee, Hopelessly Devoted To You and We Go Together, along with a mix of some of your favourite party songs. 7.30pm Pittville Pump Room.

Tickets: £18.50 (£16.50 OAP) Groups 10+ £16.50 Per Person. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

GLOUCESTERSHIRE YOUTH ORCHESTRA Sunday 9th December The magical Snowman orchestral suite

by Howard Blake will be the festive highlight of this annual visit to the Town Hall. Musical Director Glyn Oxley will lead an evening of Christmas music, with audience carols, as well as welcoming the Gloucestershire Youth Wind Orchestra as guest performers.

6pm Town Hall Tickets: £12 (£5 Concessions) Free entry to

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

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In association with

Your comprehensive guide to what’s going on in The Cotswolds... with Carley O’Dea

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com Gloucestershire Music Card Holders www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

ROYAL MARINES CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Thursday 13th December Festive military music and entertainment.

The world-famous Band of Her Majesty’s Royal Marines will end this special Diamond Jubilee year with a military music spectacular featuring festive music, military marches, big band hits and popular showstoppers. This entertaining band delights audiences wherever they perform and their worldrenowned Corps of Drums will demonstrate the precision, accuracy and skill for which they have become famous across the globe. 7.30pm Tickets: £21, £19, £17 (Concessions Available) www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk THAT’LL BE THE DAY CHRISTMAS SHOW Tuesday 18th December Get ready for a party as the UK’s most successful touring rock ‘n’ roll production, the legendary That’ll Be The Day, returns with a brand new Christmas show for 2012. Trevor and the gang celebrate the festive season by bringing back the good times with all your favourite Christmas classics and hilarious comedy routines. Join in the festive fun this Christmas! 7.30pm Town Hall Tickets: £23, £21, £10. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk THE CHRISTMAS BALL Wednesday 19th December The annual festive treat for lovers of social dancing. With live music from The Ross Mitchell Band and all-star cabaret from James & Joanna Whitehead, plus mince pies to get you in the Christmas spirit. 8pm Town Hall Tickets: £16.50. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY Monday 31st December Celebrate the biggest night of the year with the perfect party package in the stunning surroundings of Cheltenham Town Hall! Buy a Standard ticket and dance your way into 2013 with a disco and live music from favourite party band The Chip Shop Boys until 2am. Or, to DECEMBER 2012

celebrate in the finest fashion, book one of our decadent dining packages where a Gold ticket will enable you to indulge in a glass of champagne and delicious canapés on arrival, followed by a two course dinner in addition to the entertainment. You can also upgrade to our premium Platinum package with prestigious balcony seats and a three course dinner with wine. Over 18s only.

Smart party-wear please; no jeans or trainers. 7.30pm-2am Platinum & Gold, 9.30pm-2am Standard. Tickets: £90 Platinum, £65 Gold, £29.50 Standard. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk MONTY’S BRASSERIE To take the stress out of your Christmas shopping, take a break and come and enjoy lunch at Monty’s Brasserie. In addition to the full lunch menu, Monty’s also offers a great value 2 course menu for £12.50 and a 3 course menu for £15. Both menus offer a selection of dishes all prepared to the same high standard that Monty’s is renowned for.

Why not recharge your batteries with a glass of mulled wine or a glass of fizz.

To book your table call 01242 227678 or book on line at www.montysbraz.co.uk

NEW YEAR BLACK TIE DINNER DANCE Monday 31st December Begin the evening with a cocktail on arrival, before taking your seat for a fantastic five course dinner in the Knights Suite where you will be seated at large tables. At midnight see in the New Year with a glass of Champagne and dancing until 1.00am with Detroit Soul, a nine-piece dynamic soul band. £99.00 per person. www.mallory.co.uk

faces – and this year we are delighted to welcome Tweedy the Clown – fresh from Gifford’s Circus – for a festive feast of laughs , thrills and spills, underwater kingdoms and faraway lands.

For this year’s Panto, we welcome back a strong cast including returning favourites William Elliot as Sarah the Cook, and Kelli Maybank as Dick Whittington.

Book your seats now – Dick Whittington is sure to be the cat’s whiskers. Prices from £11 - £22.

Concessions are available as well as a fantastic family ticket offer – £58 for two adults and two children.

SPIRIT OF STOW Saturday 8th December

FAMILY

‘DICK WHITTINGTON’ AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE, CHELTENHAM Friday 30th November 2012 – Sunday 13th January With a streetwise cat as his companion, Dick defeats the evil Queen Rat, finds his fortune, marries Alice and becomes Lord Mayor! Join our cast of familiar

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

The historic market town of Stow-onthe-Wold is getting ready for Christmas by hosting a special one-day celebration called ‘Spirit of Stow’ in aid of Kate’s

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t u o ab Home Nursing. Celebrating everything this atmospheric Cotswold town has to offer, visitors are invited to start their festive shopping accompanied by special offers, free gifts and street entertainment. Fashion, gifts, antiques, home wares, food and drink, jewellery and toys are just some of the choices shopping in Stow can offer. Adam Henson, Director of The Cotswold Farm Park and popular TV presenter, is bringing along some of his cuddliest animals for a kid’s petting corner and he’ll be on hand to sign his books, be a competition judge and give out prizes.

The fabulous Giffords Circus folk will be providing street entertainment amongst the festive market stalls in the town’s square where local food and drink businesses will be passing around free samples. Shops will be participating in an ‘Odd Object’ window competition with cash prizes to be won, and will stay open until 7pm.

KIDS CHRISTMAS TREATS Thursday 20th December Our chef will be making some wonderful Christmas treats for you to take home for either pressies or to tuck in to on Christmas day, impress the family with some delicious decorations, goody bags and recipes to take home.

Loads of fun with the odd Christmas Carol thrown in! Great Christmas pressie, Foodworks Xmas vouchers now on sale 01242 870538. Telephone & Bookings: 01242 870538. www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk

PROMENADE PRODUCTIONS PRESENTS ‘CINDERELLA’ Wednesday 23rd to Sunday 27th January For 2013 Promenade Productions promise to delight young and old with CINDERELLA, a magical rags-to-riches tale, complete with two outrageous and comic Ugly Sisters, a dashing Prince, supported by a full cast in this traditional family entertainment at the end of the Christmas season. Have a Ball - Don’t leave it too late to book – because not even your Fairy Godmother will be able to magic you up tickets for this panto with lots of laughs, stunning sets, fabulous costumes, great dance routines and that very magic moment when

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Cinderella heads off to the Ball.

Cinderella runs from 2013 at the Bacon Theatre in Cheltenham. Ticket prices are from £8 - £12 with concessions available. Evening performances start at 7pm and there are two Matinees on Saturday and Sunday both starting at 2.30pm.

CHARITY

WINSTON’S WISH CHRISTMAS CARDS

To purchase your cards please visit www.winstonswish.org.uk/christmas cards and choose from the 9 delightful new designs for 2012. All proceeds from the sale of the cards goes to Winston’s Wish.

WISH UPON A STAR Winston’s Wish is urging sparkling Gloucestershire shoppers to add sparkling stars to the Wish Upon a Star trees in Cheltenham’s Regent Arcade.

Write a message on a silver star to remember a loved one or make a wish for the future to be displayed on the tree for a £1 donation. The tree will be in place until Christmas Eve.

CHRISTMAS BAZAAR IN AID OF CEDARS AMETHYST TRUST Tuesday 4th December Gloucester based health and beauty centre set to host annual Christmas Fayre with proceeds donated to charity Deck the halls with demos and stalls!

Cedars Health and Beauty Centre are set to welcome Christmas shoppers and philanthropists to their annual fundraising fayre from 5.30pm until 9pm in aid of the Cedars Amethyst Trust.

The £5 ticket includes a glass of bubbly on arrival and a free raffle entry, with all proceeds from ticket sales donated to

In association with

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com the charity. A raffle will also take place to raise money for the Cedars Amethyst Trust, in support of improving the lives of local cancer patients. To purchase a ticket please contact Cedars Health and Beauty on 01452 307767. Alternatively, if you cannot make the event but would still like to donate to the trust as an alternative Christmas gift, visit: www.cedarsamethysttrust.co.uk WINSTON’S WISH CHARITY BALL Thursday 6th December Pittville Pump Rooms. Bombillo Events Ltd is organising a charity ball on the 6th December 2012 in support of Winston’s Wish. The black tie event includes a three course meal, charity auction and guest speaker. Each table for 10 people costs £800 +VAT with all proceeds going towards Winston’s Wish. To book your table and find out more details visit www.bombilloevents.co.uk/winstons wishball. Places are limited so don’t delay!

A STAR TO REMEMBER Sunday 9 December Celebration service at Christmas time for loved ones who are missed at St Luke’s Church Cheltenham from 3 - 3.45pm. Followed by refreshments.

Dedicate a Silver Star.

For further information contact: linc@glos.nhs.uk. 08454 224422 www.lincfund.org

JOIN US FOR AN EVENING OF CAROLS AND FESTIVE CELEBRATION IN AID OF MAGGIE’S CHELTENHAM Thursday 13th December The concert will have seasonal readings by special guests, writer, broadcaster and historian Sir Roy Strong and Shakespearian actress Alexandra James and a talk by BBC Countryfile host Adam Henson about his life on the land.

There will be a raffle at the concert to benefit Maggie’s Cheltenham which will include a delicious, beautifully iced, home-baked, Delia Smith recipe Christmas Cake and other prizes. Tickets are limited so book now to secure your place! Ticket sales close on the 11th December 2012. Carol Concert tickets -

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

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In association with

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com

Your comprehensive guide to what’s going on in The Cotswolds... with Carley O’Dea

THE INTERNATIONAL AT CHELTENHAM RACECOURSE

Friday 14th & Saturday 15th December Two days of top class sport at the home of Jump racing www.cheltenham.co.uk NEW YEAR’S DAY RACING at Cheltenham Racecourse Tuesday 1st January Fresh air and fun! www.cheltenham.co.uk

£15 each. 7pm to 9pm. The concert will be at the Chapel of St Mary and St George (Cheltenham College Chapel). If you would like more information or to book tickets over the telephone, please contact Graham Twarog on 01242 250 611 or at: graham.twarog@maggiescentres.org

BOXING DAY CHALLENGE IN AID OF WINSTON’S WISH To be held at Cheltenham Racecourse on Boxing Day! Challenge starts at 10.30am, with registration from 9am.

Choose to either walk or run a 2 mile or 4 mile course. For more information and to register your place visit:: www.boxingdaychallenge.com

SPORTING EVENTS

A FEAST OF FESTIVE FOOTBALL

Find out what’s going at Cheltenham Town Football Club this Christmas. It won’t be difficult to spot a Christmas Robin this year as the Cheltenham Town team aim to continue their impressive start to the 2012-13 season and reach the top of the tree in npower League Two. There’s plenty of action to enjoy during December including family fun, delicious Boxing Day Dining packages and a mouth-watering West County derby.

DECEMBER 2012

FESTIVAL TRIALS DAY at Cheltenham Racecourse Saturday 26th January Final Festival clues on offer www.cheltenham.co.uk

FAMILY FUN DAY – KIDS 4 A QUID! Cheltenham Town v Port Vale Saturday 15th December Kick off 3.00pm Get the whole family together for festive family fun as the Robins take on Port Vale at the Abbey Business Stadium. Kids go for just £1 and there will be lots of extra activity for families to enjoy including face painting, appearances from pantomime characters and half time entertainment. It’s the perfect opportunity make it a special family day out at your local club and tickets are available now from the Cheltenham Town Ticket Office.

BOXING DAY DINING Cheltenham Town v Wycombe Wanderers Wednesday 26th December.

Kick 0ff 3.00pm Join us for a festive feast in our newly restyled Sponsorship Suite this Boxing Day. The Robins are in action against Wycombe Wanderers and the club are giving you the chance to enjoy the match in style whilst taking in the special Boxing Day atmosphere. This fantastic hospitality package includes: Pre-match two course dinner Half time tea, coffee and biscuits Player Q&A session Match seats outside the Sponsorship Suite Match programmes and team sheets

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

Draw to present the Man of the Match award Pay bar facility Adults £50, Children £35. To book, please call the Commercial Department on 01242 588107 or e-mail leanne.sheath@ctfc.com

WINTER WEST COUNTRY DERBY Cheltenham Town v Bristol Rovers Saturday 29th December Kick off 3.00pm Mark Yates’ Cheltenham take on Mark McGhee’s Bristol Rovers on Saturday 29th December, a West Country derby to wet appetites this winter. The Robins were victorious in this season’s reverse fixture at the Memorial Stadium, where Chris Zebroski hit the net for Cheltenham in a 1-0 win. You won’t want to miss this one. Tickets for this match, and all our December fixtures are available now and can be purchased in the following ways: In person - Visit the Ticket Office (Open Mon-Fri, 10am4pm). By phone - Call 01242 573558 (opt.1). Online - To buy your tickets via our online ticket facility, visit: www.ctfc.com. 6pm Thursdays.

Cheltenham Town are Gloucestershire’s only professional Football League club, one of 92 in the country and you can be a part of the action. For news, fixtures, tickets and more, visit www.ctfc.com.

WOODY’S ‘BACK TO SCHOOL’ PARTY Wednesday 19th December Christmas 2012 sees the arrival of Woody’s ‘Back to School’ party at Dean Close School, Cheltenham. Join Woody, his teammates and other stars from around the Premiership for a trip down memory lane. Set in the beautiful grounds of Dean Close, one of the area’s finest private schools, Woody’s ‘Back to School’ party is a chance for you to relive those halcyon school days.

Buy your tickets online at the Woody’s Benefit Year Shop. Enjoy an evening of fine dining, fine wine and dancing together with all the schoolboy and schoolgirl antics that you’d expect at a school dinner. This will be a night to remember! Tickets are £40 each / Group offers available. To buy tickets email info@woodysbenefityear.co.uk

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Day at the races

Jackie and Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen entertained friends family and business associates in the box that Laurence decorated 3 years ago in true Cecil Beaton style.

The elegant gathering was superbly catered for by Jockey Club Catering and the champagne flowed to celebrate winners and sooth any losers.

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1 Dr Dawn Harper and Dr Graham Harper. 2 Denys Young. 3 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen. 4 James Price and Simon Price. 5 Chris Wilks, The Countess Bathurst and Alison Mills. 6 One of the delectable delights the guests enjoyed. 7 Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen and The Countess Bathurst.

8 Jo Wiseman and Colin Dillon. 9 Cynthia MaCGregor. 10 David Prosser, PJ Crook and husband Richard. 11 Laurence Llewelyn-Bowen, Jackie Llewelyn-Bowen and Alice Macaire. 12 Katie Andrews, Lucy Fogarty and Rachel Aldersley.

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

Fresh flowers delivered to your door.

Montpellier Flowers have a wealth of experience in all aspects of the floristry business, from cutting-edge contemporary design to traditional elegance.

Please call us on 01242 517777 for orders and enquiries

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

DECEMBER 2012

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Turning heads Lisa von Hallwyl tells us how she turned her dream into a reality, with a bespoke Cotswold millinery business delivering a very special standard of service Photography © www.kismetphotography.co.uk Hats really are the ultimate in wearable art. Think that they are only for the brave? Think again. Lisa began her career working alongside Vivien Sheriff, an established milliner who made some of the hats for the guests at the Royal wedding in 2011. Three years ago, she set up on her own and began to build her own brand and launched her new collection just seven weeks ago.

Now stocked in five boutique shops in the Cotswolds, Feva in Cheltenham being the primary stockist, Lisa is enjoying being her own boss. “It has been manic!”

Lisa explains, “I am very much enjoying working independently right now, but am possibly looking to branch out and hire staff for next year to cater for the Ascot demand. I am actually taking orders and selling hats for Ascot as we speak and so it is all very exciting.”

“I handle the whole creation from concept through to design, and on to

manufacture in my studio at home in Cheltenham. I take most of my inspiration from nature and organic forms and I don’t really refer to magazines, although I know what the trends are and do trend reports. I love being based here as I am able to go for breathtaking walks and then the ideas just sort of come to me. I know it sounds silly, but it’s a great way to work!”

“My clients like it that I am just on the doorstep and that I can pop in to see them. I always go to the clients, they don’t come to me, and so as they feel special and so as I am able to design in the comfort of their own home. Going to them helps me to read the person so as I am able to see the whole package, their house, the way they live, their sort of lifestyle, and learn more about them as a person as well.

“I have so many people come to me

and say that they don’t suit hats or fascinators… but can you style me anyway and they come out wanting a hat.

It’s a positive thing. It helps them and it helps me as well!”

Lisa studied fashion and textiles at The Winchester School of Art University and then completed a Master of Arts in Costume and Fashion at the Bournemouth Arts Institute. Her designs are handmade using the finest silks, satins and crystals and each one is hand embellished and colour-matched to suit your outfit.

“Making it in this industry has been hard at times, but I’m enjoying every minute of it”, Lisa explains, “My words of wisdom would be to try and save every penny or get some financial backing! And also save every single scrap of fabric as you never know when it may come in handy.”

Looking ahead to 2013, Lisa would love to open her own shop in Cheltenham, “That would be so amazing, or maybe a barn studio. That is my next step really. I love cutesy vintage bridal pieces and anything that sparkles. We should all walk around wearing hats!

They don’t just have to be for special occasions, and if you’re not quite brave enough yet then why not just embellish a hair band? It’s about having the confidence to carry off whatever suits you and that’s the message behind my designs really.” CS

COMPETITION WIN! The chance to have a hat designed for you, by Lisa.

To enter, email your name and contact details, along with your reason for wanting a piece of heavenly headgear, in 50 words or less to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk by January 1st 2013. The winner will be chosen at random and the judge’s decision is final.

One of Lisa’s designs is featured on page 62 of this month’s issue._

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interview

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COTSWOLD CRICKET MUSEUM

U I O U I O U I O U I O

Spirit of Stow Saturday 8th December

THE SQUARE STOW-ON-THE-WOLD

The historic market town of Stow-on-the-Wold is getting ready for Christmas by hosting a special one-day celebration called ‘Spirit of Stow’ in aid of Kate’s Home Nursing. www.kateshomenursing.org.

Celebrating everything this atmospheric Cotswold town has to offer, visitors are invited to start their festive shopping accompanied by special offers, free gifts and street entertainment.

Fashion, gifts, antiques, home wares, food and drink, jewellery and toys are just some of the choices shopping in Stow can offer.

Adam Henson, Director of The Cotswold Farm Park and popular TV presenter, is bringing along some of his cuddliest animals for a kid’s petting corner and he’ll be on hand to sign his books, be a competition judge and give out prizes.

The fabulous Giffords Circus folk will be providing street entertainment amongst the festive market stalls in the town’s square where local food and drink businesses will be passing around free samples.

Shops will be participating in an ‘Odd Object’ window competition with cash prizes to be won, and will stay open until 7pm.

And as a grand finale, there will be a Christmas Auction of Promises, at 7pm at The Granary, Huntsman’s Yard, Sheep Street, where you can bid for some fantastic lots including a holiday in Lanzarote, a family pass to the Cotswold Farm Park and a signed book by Adam Henson, a selection of delicious meals and theatre tickets, an opportunity to be a jewellery maker, a round of golf with ex-England cricketer Ashley Giles and much, much more…

Join Stow-on-the-Wold’s local traders on Saturday 8th December for a true taste of Christmas in the ‘Spirit of Stow’.

U I O U I O U I O U I O U The Li le Black Dress Bou que Ltd

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house etc.

not just for the home...

O U I O U I O U I O U I O M ANGAN & W EBB

C OUNTRY C LOTHING

Kate’s Home Nursing

Kate’s Home Nursing is a local charity providing hospice at home nursing care for local patients. The charity was created in the mid 1990s as the result of a wish expressed by Kate King, a Stow resident who died in 1995. Kate became aware of the lack of palliative nursing care available to patients who wanted to stay at home and so challenged her nurses and doctors to do something about it.

Kate’s experienced registered nurses provide care, free of charge to patients, but paid for from it’s funds as a registered charity. Although Kate’s now receives some money from the NHS, for over 70 per cent of its income it depends on the generosity of the people who support the charity through donations, fundraising and the sponsorship of local businesses. The value to the families who benefit from the care provided by Kate’s Home Nursing is long lasting and immeasurable.

See Kate’s website for more information: www.kateshomenursing.org

Saturday 15th December Kate’s carol service

This year Kate’s Christmas Carol Concert is being held on Saturday 15th December, in St. Edward’s Church, Stow on the Wold at 7pm.

Tickets cost £15 each and are selling quickly, so if you would like to attend please send a cheque payable to Kates’ Home Nursing and enclosing a stamped addressed envelope to Gabrielle Kubale, Kate’s Nursing, 1 Five Bells Cottages, Church Street, Bledington OX7 6XG Telephone 01608 658 728.

U I O U I O U I O U I O

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12 gifts of 2

1

5

3

6

4 1. Gucci 1973 silver Lucky Charm bracelet from Beards, £230. 2. Get in shape! Jodie Hart personal trainer gift vouchers available by emailing jodie@hartfitness.co.uk 3. A cake made entirely of sweets, Sweet Temptations www.sweettemptations.org. 4. Woody’s Benefit Year Calendar, £10, www.shop.woodysbenefityear.co.uk. 5. Miss Moo, £20, Rechercher, Montpellier, Cheltenham. 6. Chicken Mugs by Jane Vernon Potter, £7.50-£9, By Local, Regent Arcade, www.by-local.co.uk

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christmas gift guide

Christmas 7

10

8

Here, we bring you our selection of unique gifts for your loved ones...

8

9

11

12

7. An original Art Deco Diamond Cluster ring in a rectangular shape, set with Old Cut Diamonds in Platinum with an 18ct White Gold band, £4,950.00, www.promenadeantiques.co.uk. 8. Winter Tree print on reclaimed timber, various from £149, Lovedge, www.lovedge.co.uk 9. Beanie Hat £21, Scarf £11, Gloves £11, Raging Bull, www.ragingbull.co.uk 10. Stag Head, £100, Villa in The Village, Nailsworth.

Tel: 01453 391997. 11. 18ct white gold earrings, Bicks Jewellers, Montpellier, Cheltenham. 12. Give the gift of beautiful hair this Christmas with Laura Leigh hairdressing Gift Cards, www.lauraleighhairdressing.co.uk DECEMBER 2012

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We would like to wish all our customers a fantastic Christmas and a prosperous and happy New Y ear!

A very Happy Christmas and prosperous New Y ear from Ellenborough Park.

“Seasons Greetings from the Directors and Staff at Brunsdon.

Insurance and F inancial Solutions since 1932.�

We would like to wish all our customers past, present and future a Merry Christmas and a very properous and Happy New Y ear!

Prestbury Marketing would like to wish all our clients and readers of Cotswold Style a Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous 2013

The Partners at Rickerbys LLP would like to wish you a merry Christmas and a prosperous 2013.

We would like to thank all our students for their support in our first year and wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Y ear.

At this time of year, our thoughts turn gratefully to those who have made our success possible. We wish you a full year of happiness and prosperity. Merry Christmas and a happy New Y ear from all the tea m at Yorke Construction'.

22 COTSWOLD STYLE

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Christmas

70% off

with added joy

up to

Festive homeware gifts, from only ÂŁ3

all day every day

Outlet stock is subject to availability. Prices stated have been provided by respective retailer and represent lowest prices for a category of product as at 31 October 2012.

gloucesterquays.co.uk DECEMBER 2012

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Jewellery designed and crafted by David Hargreaves, a family run business with over 45 years experience.

We offer a bespoke jewellery service allowing customers the chance to be involved in creating their own jewellery. Working directly with you allows us to offer excellent value for money.

David has a tremendous reputation as an expert in creating, repairing and restoring pieces of jewellery.

All of our diamonds are ethically sourced.

We have a large selection of wedding and engagement rings on display.

WE WILL MAKE YOU A CASH OFFER FOR YOUR OLD GOLD/ JEWELLERY/WATCHES

Come and talk over your design ideas.

Visit us on the 1st floor of the Regent Arcade at the top of the escalator.

A 1.61ct Old Fashioned Cut Diamond surrounded by Faceted Sapphires and Emeralds.

Platinum ring with a Mill Grain setting. The central Diamond Colour is I/J with a Clarity of VS2. ÂŁ14,950.00.

Gifts Jewellery Christmas Decor Modern Table Top French Furnishings

Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1SW

01242 515509

24

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Montpellier Traders Dec 12:Layout 1

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Expert Lingerie and Swimwear Styling

ASSOCIATION

THE ROTUNDA

The Spa

Pharmacy

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Come and Celebrate Christmas in Montpellier “Montpellier Shop Crawl – Win a Montpellier Christmas” 11am – 7pm.

Would you like to have Christmas sorted this year? Then, the Montpellier Shop Crawl is the answer!

Join us on the 6th December, where one lucky entrant will win a host of Gifts and Vouchers from the most beautiful boutique shops in Cheltenham.

The Shop Crawl starts from 11am at Hotel Du Vin, where you will be given a map of all the shops you need to visit to qualify.

As you journey through Montpellier

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you will collect stamps as you go, along with lots of wonderful Christmas inspiration.

When you have filled your map, all you need to do is hand it in and keep your fingers crossed that you’re the winner of our “Win a Montpellier Christmas” Draw. *This is an event aimed at adults and Children are of course welcome but must be accompanied by an adult.

“Men’s shopping night – Ladies have the evening off!”

MEN! Does Christmas seem scary?

Always leave everything to the last minute? Not any more, we have

Gifts Jewellery Christmas Decor Modern Table Top and French Furnishings

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Boutique 3

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With 3 special Thursdays, right through until 8pm

created a whole day and evening especially for you.

All the shops will offer you specialist help to get the women in your life those extra special gifts, they may even come gift wrapped!

WOMEN! Relax, send him out to do some shopping and take advantage of our multiple “women crèches” at our Bars and Restaurants.

Dont like surprises?

Then select your gift earlier in the day from the shops and send him in later!

CHILDREN! Get Dad, Uncle, Brother, Grandad out shopping for the females in the family! Let Mum

have a night off!

“Christmas of Montpellier Past” Come and celebrate a more traditional Christmas in Montpellier with only four more days until Christmas arrives.

P Father Christmas will be back 3pm until 8pm P Traditional Carols P More Stalls P Last minute shopping P We will be having local school choirs showcasing their talents on all four evenings.

P Shop promotions, incentives and goodies will be offered at each individual shop’s discretion.

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28 COTSWOLD STYLE

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s

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

Sponsored by

“The Conveyancing Experts�

Speed | Innovation | Excellence

01452 657950 www.thomaslegalgroup.co.uk

000 Property Savills Dec 12:Layout 1

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DECEMBER 2012

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COTSWOLD STYLE 31

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NAUNTON

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD

A substantial and elegant Grade II listed period country house with a south facing mainly walled garden and great potential.

An attractive Grade II listed three bedroom property with a showroom, off road parking and south facing garden within walking distance of the town centre.

Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, kitchen, cloakroom, 2 cellars, 3 bedrooms, shower room, bathroom, 2 attic rooms, rear garden, parking, views.

Guide Price £525,000

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

Showroom, sitting room, kitchen/dining area, study area, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, double garage, garden, parking.

Guide Price £695,000

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD

LOWER SWELL

An attractive modern detached family house with a large garden occupying an elevated position, adjoining open countryside to the rear and offering enormous potential to alter, extend, and further improve.

An extremely well presented three bedroom house with excellent conservatory and situated in the heart of the village.

Guide Price £335,000

Guide Price £329,500

Hall, sitting room, dining room, kitchen, utility room, cloakroom, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, garage, gardens.

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

Hall, cloakroom, sitting room, kitchen, conservatory/dining room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, garden, garage, carport, parking.

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

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WINCHCOMBE

BLEDINGTON

A stunning brand new Grade ll listed three bedroom house within walking distance of Winchcombe town centre.

A delightful two bedroom property situated within the popular village of Bledington.

Guide Price £350,000

Guide Price £220,000

Sitting room, kitchen, utility room, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, courtyard garden, parking space.

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

LOWER ODDINGTON

A three bedroom semi-detached house with a large garden set on the edge of the village.

Sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, rear hall/utility, cloakroom, 3 bedrooms, bathroom, parking, gardens.

Guide Price £250,000

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

Sitting room/dining room, kitchen, 2 bedrooms, bathroom, gardens, parking, garage.

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

STOW-ON-THE-WOLD

An extremely well presented semi-detached house, with flexible living accommodation, situated in an elevated position with magnificent views over the adjoining, undulating countryside.

Entrance porch, staircase hall, sitting room/dining room, kitchen, conservatory, bathroom, three bedrooms, garage, small garden, views.

Guide Price £237,500

Stow-on-the-Wold Office 01451 830383

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hot property

Lansdown Terrace Cheltenham Setting the scene: A rarely available and quite stunning complete Regency terraced town house on one of Cheltenham's most attractive roads, just a short distance from the thriving shops and bars of Montpellier and the Suffolks.

Why we love it: 10 Lansdown Terrace is the quintessential Grade II* listed Regency Cheltenham town house. Having recently undergone a significant program of restoration and renovation, this is a stunning example of a rarely available property. The property has a wealth of stunning period features which include, fine ceiling moldings, exquisite fireplaces, deep skirting boards and floor to ceiling windows. The fabulously elegant drawing room is a particular feature of this home with both covered and open balconies reached via full length sash windows. Arranged over 5 floors the accommodation is both spacious and flexible, with 7 bedrooms, 7 reception rooms and 2 kitchens.

The lower ground floor could easily be self-contained and would work equally well as secondary accommodation for staff or dependent family. The balance of bedrooms and bathrooms is extremely well thought out and offers adequate space for large families.

Guide Price: ÂŁ1,595,000 Details: Knight Frank, Cheltenham. 01242 246 959. nick.chivers@knightfrank.com. www.knightfrank.co.uk/che120280

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hot property

Whittington Cheltenham Setting the scene: A lovely detached Cotswold cottage set in the heart of Whittington. The cottage would benefit from some updating to enhance it further and has lots of scope to create a very special home.

Why we love it: 11 Whittington is a very attractive, traditional Cotswold stone property that forms part of a lovely street scene in the highly regarded village of Whittington. The cottage is detached, with a private garden to the front and a generous garden to the rear with an open aspect beyond and a wooded backdrop. The cottage is presented in tidy order, but could be enhanced with some modernisation. The present accommodation is based on a good sized sitting room, dining room, kitchen with utility off and cloakroom. There are 3 bedrooms and a bathroom on the first floor with the added attraction of a sun room from the master bedroom opening out to a large level terrace.

Whittington is a quiet village, so there is parking along the lane as well as a private garage.

Guide Price: ÂŁ550,000 Details: Knight Frank, Cheltenham.

01242 246 959. sue.healey@knightfrank.com. www.knightfrank.co.uk/che070267

DECEMBER 2012

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hot property

The Barn Great Washbourne, Gloucestershire Setting the Scene: The Barn is believed to have originally formed part of the Manor Farm Estate and was one of five properties converted some years ago. The property enjoys lovely views and is situated in the hamlet of Great Washbourne, an area of Outstanding Natural Beauty between the Cotswold Escarpment and Bredon Hill.

Why we love it: The property is constructed of red brick with a large glass fronted hallway and benefits from well proportioned accommodation arranged over two floors. In addition to the main house there is a drive through garage as well as a further single garage. Internally the property benefits from: Entrance hall, drawing room, dining room, study, kitchen/breakfast room, utility room, cloakroom, master bedroom with en suite, shower room, three further bedrooms, family bathroom, two garages and off road parking, rear garden.The property is approached via a shared driveway leading to a roundabout in the centre of the barns. A gravelled pathway leads from here to the front door and there is also a gravelled drive leading to the drive through garage. The gardens lie to the front and rear of the property with the rear garden being mainly laid to lawn and bordered by post and rail fencing, hedges and mature shrubs. To the front of the garages is a gravelled area leading to a five bar gate which opens onto the rear shared driveway.

Guide Price: ÂŁ645,000 Details: Savills, Cheltenham Tel: 01242 548 000 www.savills.co.uk

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hot property

The Cottage Sandy Lane Road, Charlton Kings Setting the scene: A delightful Edwardian family house in Sandy Lane Road, which is considered to be one of Cheltenham’s most exclusive residential addresses. A private road located in the popular district of Charlton Kings, approximately one mile to the south east of the town centre.

Why we love it: The Cottage is a well presented family house which retains many original features including some wonderful fireplaces. The property offers flexible and spacious accommodation which is arranged over two floors with a wonderful kitchen/breakfast room having steps down to the dining room with French doors leading to the garden.

On the first floor there is a master bedroom with en suite bathroom, four further bedrooms, one with a balcony, and a family bathroom. Outside, the property is approached via an in and out driveway leading to the garage which has a door through to the games room/office, which was built in 2006. The gardens lie to two sides of the property and have been landscaped to include a terrace providing the ideal area for al fresco dining. They incorporate many mature trees and shrubs including a Smoke tree to the front. To one end of the garden is an area of about 3 acres of woodland in which the house has an optional share (further details are available from the agents).

Guide Price: ÂŁ1,000,000 Details: Savills, Cheltenham Tel: 01242 548 000 www.savills.co.uk DECEMBER 2012

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01242 210 200

Sofas Chairs Headboards Rugs Fabrics Wallpaper and Paint

FABRICS: Colefax and Fowler Mulberry Osborne and Little Linwood Romo Zoffany Andrew Martin and many more...

www.prestburyupholstery.com

Unit 6 Brookfield Farm Gravel Pit Lane Prestbury Cheltenham GL52 3NQ DECEMBER 2012

COTSWOLD STYLE 41

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Winter Wonderland...upto 50%off

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DECEMBER 2012

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‘Renovation of a Grade II Listed Building in Warwickshire.

Refurbished utilising traditional and contemporary building techniques.

The quality speaks for itself...’

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

Sponsored by

www.yorkeconstruction.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2012

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homestyle

HAPPY CHRISTMAS TO ALL AND TO ALL A GOOD PARTY Sophie Taylor, event and wedding planner, shares her tips to hosting a wonderful Christmas dinner party without getting your tinsel in a tiz!

FESTIVE FEEL I like to think that simplicity is the key to Christmas Décor. As with most projects I choose three key colours; this colour palette will run through the house, from the tree and flowers to table settings and table decoration. Create two or three focal points in the principal rooms. Features to highlight would be: the tree, the fireplace/ mantle, and the table. Always use candles. Candles set the mood instantly, and at Christmas buy scented candles such as cinnamon. But remember to always follow the safety instructions when handling them.

place setting

twine, glitter, gold spray pain,t pine cone

dazzling decoration DECEMBER 2012

DIVINE DINING Whether it is Christmas day or a Christmas dinner party for friends, there is nothing nicer than a beautifully laid table.

Make sure you have a glass for both white and red wine, a water glass, and as it’s Christmas, a glass for Champagne.

Lay cutlery from outside in for each course. Fold an ironed white napkin and lay in the middle of the setting, don’t try making a swan or a fan, simply tie twine in a bow.

TWINKLING TABLE Every year I roll out the brown paper on Christmas Eve. Not to wrap last-minute presents but to cover the dining table. This is, in my opinion, the best Christmas tablecloth! Once the table is laid, you can write on the brown paper your guests’ names in large ‘swirly’ writing. During dinner your mini guests can use the paper to draw their own Christmas scenes. And when the perfect dinner has been devoured, you just

old music paper is great as place mats, laminate them so you can use them over and over again!

roll up the paper and put it in the recycling bin, all the spills and drips of gravy, vanished, with no washing to do!

Old music paper is great to use for placemats, laminate them so as you can use them over and over again!

Create a Christmas feast centrepiece with fruit, spray paint, candles, and holly and ivy.

DAZZLING DECORATIONS It seems that every year you have the urge to buy new decorations.

Well don’t. Your new decoration couldn’t be easier. Simply spray a pine cone with gold spray paint, sprinkle some glitter and attach some twine and you have your very own homemade decoration... plus a great way to keep the children entertained!

‘Happy Christmas to all and to all a good party!’ CS www.sophietaylorcreative.co.uk

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Hawkesberry HOME AND GARDEN

Handmade Furniture For Beautiful Homes 1 & 2 Emmervale Court, Midland Road, Cirencester GL7 1PZ (opposite Fire Station) Call 01285 653630

www.hawkesberry.com

Visit Our Showroom Monday – Saturday 9.30am – 5.00pm Sunday 10.00am – 4.00pm

48 COTSWOLD STYLE

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www.shoottheday.co.uk

a woman’s work

urtees

Including why you don’t need lemongrass to stuff a turkey and why all the best parties start at the freezer…

There is a lot of pressure on people at Christmas isn’t there? (and for people read frazzled women). I mean, be honest, how many of you have really started your beauty countdown for Christmas – you know the kind of thing I mean – “3 weeks to go… complete detox; 2 weeks to go… start weights programme to avoid bingo wings at Christmas party” – haven’t we got enough on the December list already?

The cookery pages aren’t much better. Celebrity chefs suggest Christmas lunch with a twist, adding lemongrass to the stuffing and rubbing chilli into the turkey (and its bingo wings). Why can’t we just be allowed to cook the same meal once a year without feeling guilty about Nigella’s input? That’s why it’s called a Traditional Christmas Lunch!

Anyway, for me, like many women I suspect, the meal is just one small part of the pressure.

If only it were just the cooking we

had to think about. It’s the timing of the day that kills me: Keeping kids in bed after 5am when they are really young, getting them out of bed before 5pm when they are teenagers.

Dash home from church to pour fat over the fowl and pour a quick glass of fizz down your own gullet (having stuffed the birds with Jamie’s finest, you caved under pressure). Except you are hot and thirsty (shouldn’t have bought that itchy angora jumper for Christmas day) and didn’t have much time for breakfast, and it is so nice to drink fizz in the morning, so just one more... fast forward to 3pm when you’ve started on the Chablis and forgotten to par boil the potatoes.

No, the problem with Christmas is the juggling, and we women have a degree in that. So this year, I’m keeping it simple: Sticking to traditional food, traditional clothes and all the traditional arguments.

Now, where did I put that fizz?

Sometimes the impromptu drinks gathering is the hardest to pull off, but the most fun. Keep a cool head and you’ll be sorted in no time:

1

Don’t greet your guests in slippers and apron. Change your top, drench yourself in perfume, and stick on heels and bright red lipstick.

2

Put everything that should be cold in the freezer. There’s nothing worse than warm booze. And let’s face it once you’ve got a couple of drinks down your guests, they don’t notice anything else.

3

Clear the clutter! Take your biggest laundry basket, literally sweep in all the usual detritus and then hide it.

4

Oven on – chuck in any bread & smelly cheese (warm bread, always a winner). Lay out cooked meats & olives on wooden boards. Stick hoummus in bowls, pour over a bit of olive oil (It always works for Jamie).

5

’’

Dim lights as low as possible – get the candles lit – (hides the mess and makes us all look better anyway) and get the Christmas tunes on. CS

I would love to hear your top party tips – so please send them to me, Amanda Toner (formerly Surtees!), at editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

DECEMBER 2012

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gardening

with Camilla Bassett-Smith

M SLETOE The 1st December is here and it’s time to throw open the first door of your cardboard chocolate masterpiece, and once that’s done, how about celebrating National Mistletoe Day? This day of recognition is marked on the first Saturday of December and as one of the counties to host the most mistletoe in Britain, this white berry cling-on certainly reminds us in Gloucestershire that the festive season is underway.

National Mistletoe Day was endorsed

by Parliament in recent years, as concern over the future of traditional mistletoe markets was raised. Foreign imports and the loss of traditional orchards to host British plants has been behind this concern.

The parasitic mistletoe (Viscum album) is mostly found on cultivated apple trees. Both of my Cheltenham homes in the past twenty years have provided a healthy crop of mistletoe thanks to some old gnarled dessert apple residents.

However, traditional orchards have

DECEMBER 2012

Gloucestershire Horticulturalist Camilla Bassett-Smith has a wealth of experience on high profile gardening TV output and holds a Chelsea Gold Medal. Cheltenham born and bred, and trained at Pershore College, Camilla ends our horticultural year with a Christmas favourite... declined by at least sixty per cent since the 1950s and if this continues we could lose this precious parasite all together.

Thankfully many people and institutions such as The National Trust have been encouraging us to support our local orchards, to buy local fruit and juice and to buy British mistletoe.

We have no excuse for purchasing foreign sprigs when we have some of the best in the world on our doorstop!

The nearby Worcestershire town of Tenbury Wells holds it’s annual Mistletoe Festival in November and December and auctions of the crop, which have been taking place for over 100 years, are still held. There are also many Gloucestershire farms providing sprigs for your Christmas interior decoration.

Of course we all know the custom of kissing under a sprig at Christmas, but other ancient beliefs include use of the plant as a talisman to ensure fertility in women and also to protect houses from lightening. It was often thought that mistletoe would actually spontaneously grow on trees that had been struck by lightening!

Mistletoe has an interesting relationship with religion, on one hand (or stem) it was often banned from churches due to pagan associations, but in contrast the evergreen nature of the plant has been likened to the eternal life of Jesus. There is even a legend from the Middle Ages that states that the wood of the cross of Jesus was made from mistletoe. It was suggested that

this used to be a large tree, but in shame following the crucifixion, it shrank and was denied contact with the ground. The old French name for mistletoe illustrates this belief: herbe de la croix.

Although often seen as a threat to the life of its host trees, mistletoe actually plays an important ecological role, providing food for many birds in particular. Germination often occurs as berries pass through a bird’s digestive system and their seeds land on branches via droppings. Mistel is in fact an old English word for dung and tan means branch or twig!

Despite being poisonous, there has been much research and discussion over the potential anti cancer effect of mistletoe extract, with one British woman claiming in the press that it saved her life. The topic is pretty controversial though, so I will leave you to form your own opinions.

Here in Gloucestershire we are not only lucky enough to be home to some of the highest percentages of mistletoe in the country but we are also home to Mistletoe expert Jonathan Briggs who runs ‘Mistletoe Matters’ in Stonehouse, a top source of information on all aspects of the plant.

The company are running a survey called The Mistletoe League to map as much data as possible about the plant, a survey which started in winter 2011. So let’s pour a glass of sherry, put out the mince pies and take a minute or two to add your thoughts, and support the future of the mighty mistletoe. CS

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Jennings of Tewkesbury specialise in the finest oriental rugs and carpets The magic and the mystery of the Orient; its art, culture and ancient history are all captured in the enduring beauty and hand-woven craftsmanship of traditional Oriental rugs and carpets.

As a family business we have specialised in offering the finest hand-made Oriental rugs and carpets for more than 50 years.

We travel far and wide to find the best examples and carefully select individual rugs and carpets from established weavers who use vegetabledyed hand-spun wool or the finest silk.

With our wide knowledge and expertise we offer a very high level of personal service to our customers.

So, come and see our exquisite selection for yourself.

Our period Tudor shop is only a stone’s throw from Tewkesbury Abbey. We’ll be delighted to see you.

Commences 3rd December

Telephone: 01684 292 033

www.jenningsrugs.co.uk

J W Jennings 10 Church Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5PA

52 COTSWOLD STYLE

© J W Jennings 2012

DECEMBER 2012

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gardening

“Beauty is there and we must remember that it is” _

with Jon Hodder

This month, Head Gardener at Sudeley Castle, Jon Hodder, looks ahead to the dawn of Spring...

So, the darkening days of winter begin to enshroud us in their grip, and we move towards the point at which our friend the sun sits low on the horizon. The high days of Summer seem an age away, this year perhaps more than ever. This is a time of open fires, comfortable chairs, and good books. A time for the late afternoon walk with the dog across fields cut low, with the fading rays of a setting sun; the leafless tracery of hedgerow oaks spreading long, across the weathering furrow.

Winter’s beauty is born of subtlety.

The frost on an old teasel, a thrush feasting on over-ripe haws, the tell-tale remains of a wood mouse’s seed feast, the noisy flight of some cackling field fares.

Beauty is there and we must remember that it is. When faced with endless poorly adjusted headlights on the way home; when being soaked through by the winddriven rain; when slithering to work along roads made barely passable by compacted snow and freezing temperatures. The reward for all of Winter is the knowledge that Spring may never be far away.

With thoughts of Spring we must turn our minds to selection of seeds and plants for the coming year. I can think of nothing better than a good log fire, a cup of tea and the gentle pleasure of leafing through the latest offerings in catalogues from favourite suppliers. It is a simple pleasure, but definitely one worth savouring.

DECEMEBER 2012

‘‘

“Winter’s beauty is born of subtlety. the frost on an old teasel, a thrush feasting on over-ripe haWs, the tell-tale remains of a Wood mouse’s seed feast, the noisy flight of some cackling field fares.”

Many of the Great Houses welcome volunteers, and Sudeley is no exception.

If you would like to find out more, go to www.sudeleycastle.co.uk/volunteer-atsudeley-castle.

I wish you all a peaceful Christmas, and a happy New Year. If you get to December 26th and are feeling a little jaded go out into the garden and prune the roses. I find that it works wonders! CS

Check our website for the latest details of winter opening hours www.sudeleycastle.co.uk/ or call 01242 602308.

Share Sudeley Castle Gardeners’ photos and news on their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/ SudeleyCastleGardeners

COTSWOLD STYLE 53

Beswick Stone November 12 blue text:Layout 1

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Beswick Stone November 12 blue text:Layout 1

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niall foster

Peace on earth?

This month, Niall Foster airs his views on his wishes for the year ahead...

Niall Foster presents Drive time daily from 16:00 - 19:00 on Heart 102.4. Available on102.4FM, 103FM, Digital and online at heart.co.uk

DECEMBER 2012

I want peace for New Year. Before elaborating can I just confirm that we are fine to move on to thoughts of New Year now, yes? I’m assuming of course that we have all finished, started or at least thought about our shopping plans and personal wishes for Christmas?

Good. Let’s focus on New Year then, where my own wish is less material and more abstract in nature.

Peace, in the context that I desire it, is not of the ‘world peace’ variety. Clearly an end to conflict worldwide and people in general living in greater harmony is desired by us all I hope, but in this instance I have a craving for the sort of peace that is usually coupled in a sentence with quiet, and unfortunately has been severely lacking in my recent life. For if there is one thing that seems to follow me around at the moment it is noise.

Two children capable of producing industrial volume levels in their everyday play and chatter (that invariably starts prior to six am, seven days a week), a job that is accompanied by constant musical soundtrack and the recent crowding and bustle associated with trips out at this time of year have all combined to push me towards the edge of a middle aged yearning to step back from the pandemonium of modern life, and take some time out.

I know any break will be short lived and I also know that I am the architect of my own situation. I love my

job and would be lost without the contact with the world of music and our audience. My kids are my life, and if anyone is guilty of winding them up into a frenzy of noisy expression at home it is me, and generally, I like the hustle you find whilst out at this time of year.

Therefore it is a temporary wish and has the hint of me wanting the feel the grass on the other side of the fence under my feet for a short while.

So, whilst nothing is booked or planned at present, this is the plan; a New Year’s Eve of adult company in a child free environment which features good food and a high level of tranquillity. I’ve served my years of anticlimactic nights out stood six deep at a bar waiting to buy an overpriced drink that will get me inebriated enough to throw myself in to Auld Lang Syne at midnight and snatch kisses from anything that moves in a hundred yards radius, and have had my fill. And if I’m feeling that I really need a treat (I do), then a grandly appointed hotel, preferably with the air of a stately home about it, access to a crisp, frost trodden country winter walk followed by the use of a hot, menthol infused steam room will take care of the accommodation.

December’s ‘to-do’ list therefore features the search for a babysitter and a venue. Enjoy your Christmas and New Year’s Eve and have a fantastic 2013. CS

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25% OFF Up to in our

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Beautiful and stylish clothes, shoes and accessories right in the heart of Cirencester.

SALE starts on the 27th December 2012 10 BLACK JACK STREET | CIRENCESTER GLOUCESTERSHIRE | GL7 2AA TEL: 01285 643556 | Sales@lolauk.com

60 COTSWOLD STYLE

ftÇwÜt Wxx Lingerie, Nightwear and Swimwear

01242 238427

3 Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham, GL50 1SD Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm

www.sandradee.co.uk Email: shop@sandradee.co.uk Follow us on

@sandradee_uk

DECEMBER 2012

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70% off up to

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Outlet stock is subject to availability. Prices stated have been provided by respective retailer and represent lowest prices for a category of product as at 31 October 2012.

gloucesterquays.co.uk DECEMBER 2012

COTSWOLD STYLE 61

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VINTAGE Creative Photography Spencer McPherson & Phil Stevens www.mcphersonstevens.com

Black Suit Trousers, Black Blazer, Ben Sherman White Shirt and Bow Tie – Suits Direct (available at Gloucester Quays) 50’s Silk Prom Dress – Johnny Rocks Vintage Emporium. Silver shoes – Pavers (available at Gloucester Quays). Hat – Lisa Von Hallwyl Millinery, Pearls – stylist’s own

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fashion

GLAMOUR Green Embellished Fishtail Dress – MeMeMe. Silver Bracelet – Beards.

Ring – Beards. Sequined Shoes – Pavers (available at Gloucester Quays) Suit – Hawes & Curtis (available at Gloucester Quays). White Shirt – Austin Reed available at Gloucester Quays).

Shoes – Hush Puppies (available at Gloucester Quays)

DECEMBER 2012

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fashion

Black Silk Dress – Ghost (available at Gloucester Quays). Shoes – Pavers. Earrings – Beards. Ring – Beards. Faux Fur Stole – MeMeMe. Hat – Lisa Von Hallwyl Millinery Over Coat, Jeff Banks Waistcoat, Trousers, Shirt, Tie – Suits Direct.

Scarf – Hawes & Curtis. Shoes – Hush Puppies (All available at Gloucester Quays).

64 COTSWOLD STYLE

DECEMBER 2012

000 Fashion Spencer Dec 12:Layout 1

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Left: Black Tails Jacket for Hire, Trousers, Tie and Pocket Square – Suits Direct. Shirt and Cufflinks – Hawes & Curtis. (All available at Gloucester Quays).

Right: Trousers, Blazer, Shirt and Bow Tie – Suits Direct. Handkerchief – Hawes & Curtis.

(All available at Gloucester Quays).

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Black Peplum Dress, Black Satin Gloves – MeMeMe Stephen Webster Ring and Necklace – Beards

Creative Photography & Direction Spencer McPherson & Phil Stevens of www.mcphersonstevens.com Stylist Lola Royle – www.lolaroyle.com Stylist’s Assistant Hana Jeal Hair Jo Gossage for Stuart Holmes www.stuartholmes.co.uk Makeup www.sophieeverett.com Location Cotswolds88Hotel Painswick – www.cotswolds88hotel.com

Blue Organza dress – Johnny Rocks Vintage Emporium.

Earrings and Link Ring – Beards

66 COTSWOLD STYLE

DECEMBER 2012

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fashion

The boys are back in town!

All in the Image, firm favourites with us at Cotswold Style, are pleased to announce the news of their rebranding…

Spencer McPherson and Phil Stevens share a passion for photography and the creative force are rebranding to McPhersonStevens.

As Phil explains, “Following sustained growth in our business and acceptance that we, as the people behind the business

are as important as the final image... whether a fashion, commercial or wedding client, we need to be able to communicate and work effectively with different people to get the best out of a shoot. This is in part why the name has changed to more fully represent the partnership.

“We have seen growth coming from local clients and from across the UK, with regular work in areas including London and Manchester. Undertaking national fashion campaigns through to corporate headshots.

“Shortlisted for the 2013 wedding industry awards, voted for by our bride who we shot at the Tower of London.

We now have the chance of a National award and also a wedding booked to shoot in Italy next year.”

Remaining competitively priced, their images are now seen on billboards and in both local and national magazines.

The company now incorporates video for commercial and private clients. CS Join us at www.mcphersonstevens.com Preferred supplier to key boutique hotels in the Cotswolds including Cowley Manor and Cotswolds Hotel 88

Before

DECEMBER 2012

After

COTSWOLD STYLE 67

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Cotswold Country

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fashion

2 3

Winter WONDERS 1

With Christmas just around the corner, and cold months ahead, Cotswold Style teamed up with Vérité Louise, following their recent third birthday celebrations, to give you a glimpse of their Winter Collection.The shoot took place at the Greenway Hotel in Cheltenham, and Jewellery was provided by Beards of Cheltenham Captions: 1 Simone Perele Bra £69.75, Luxury Short £47.95 2 Silk Cocoon Kimono £190, Short Nightdress £95. 3 Barbara Luxury Bra and Lace Short £66 4 Chantelle Bastille Lace Bra £65 5 Silk Cocoon Long Negligee £125 6 Barbara Ivory Talismann Bra £71.95, Luxury Short £49.95

70 COTSWOLD STYLE

Photography & Direction Rob Wheatman, www.wheatmanphotography.co.uk Location The Greenway, www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com Model, Hair & Make Up Laura May, www.lauramay.co.uk Lingerie Vérité Louise, www.veritelouise.co.uk Jewellery Beards, www.beards.co.uk

OCTOBER 2012

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Unwrap the perfect present this Christmas

12 The Courtyard, Montpellier GL50 1SR

01242 25 35 35

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shopping style

e l y t s t e e str apped by our Have you been sn reets style spy on the st of Cheltenham this month?

Name: Carly Lodde Name: Confort Francois

Personal style: Casual but with mix and matched accessories Purchase items you are wearing: All over UK Fave designer: Paul Smith Fave shop: Monty Smith

Personal style: Eclectic

Purchase items you are wearing: Boots from ASOS, cardigan from Matalan, jacket from Republic Fave designer: Karen Millen Fave shop: New Look

Save one item: Dark red Doc Marten boots

Name: Jane Fairlie

Personal style: Classic

Purchase items you are wearing: Jumper from Celtic Sheepskin Co, cords from Next, boots from Mango Fave designer: Chanel

Fave shop: Karen Millen, Hobbs, LK Bennett, Superdry

Save one item: Black Karen Millen coat

Save one item: Second hand suede 3/4 length vintage coat

In association with DECEMBER 2012

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The Li)le Black Dress Bou(que Ltd The bou(que offering niche brands where you’ll find something individual and different...

Brands at LBD:

Myrine & Me Indiwoman Angels Never Die Fehu Charli Art on Fashion – as shown in the photo Jolaby Ana Nonza

Jewellery: Hultquist Lalo Bibi Nora Wristart and more

Accessories: Blondie Mania The Old Bag Co. Accessories Lola Rose Scarves Spanx and lots of other tricks of the trade

Joseph

2ND Day MM6 Emu

Vince

With lots of exci(ng in-store events promo(ons coming soon, register for our newsle)er, like us on facebook, follow on twi)er and stay in touch.

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MICHAEL Michael Kors Shoes, jewellery and accessories

Boutique 3

3 The Courtyard, Montpellier St. Cheltenham GL50 1SR

Tel: 01242 519452

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WTF Vintage is Worcestershires most glamorous Boutique, We host a large range of international collections, All wtf vintage stock is high end and grade A - Shop online at are ASOS boutique/marketplace WTFVINTAGE For limited time a large collection of sequin and Evening wear / Prom dresses and Disney

3 & 4 Vine Mews, Evesham, Worcestershire WR11 4RE Phone: 07557 375033 | Email: sales@wtfvintage.com Opening times Weekdays 9.30-2.30 Saturday 9.30-5.30 DECEMBER 2012

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PARTY

fashion

PERFECT! Whether it’s an impromptu Eggnog at the neighbours or the New Year’s eve ball, there’s never a better season to get dressed up. So make sure you are perfectly prepared, because it really is the most wonderful time of the year...

Get set to shine in the season’s most wanted...

“Finer details” – If you didn’t already get the memo, BIG jewels are a trend to take seriously and statement jewellery should be an essential part of your evening wear repertoire. A minimal embellishment can have a maximum impact and this season calls for nothing less than Downton-worthy heirloom pieces! Decadent earrings are an instant style fix.

Above: Rhinestone Drop Earrings £22. Left: Vintage Gold Collar Necklace £25, all pieces are available from www.thehouseofpandora.com

“Luxe Mix” – Winter fashion always welcomes a riot of textures across a rich colour palette. Mix them up for modern spin; throw a velvet blazer over an embellished dress or tuck a silk blouse into leather shorts for a cool cocktail hour look. Gold accessories will offset clashing jewel tones perfectly.

“Optical illusion” – Sometimes it’s what you don't see that counts – a flash of skin through sheer layers or clever cut-away detailing can be incredibly dramatic.

Think mesh detailing and semi-sheer chiffon on cocktail dresses and blouses.

“Something to hold on to” – The statement bag; bejewelled arm candy can really bring a cocktail outfit together or simply pep up an LBD.

ch by Glitter clut er, irg B e en al M available at n, Foundatio £135

“Back in black” – Blackest black tights – unless you plan on ringing in the New Year on a beach in Rio de Janeiro, these will be your best friends for the next few weeks.

They go with everything and will keep the chill off (briefly) as you dash from cab to club.

“All that glitters” – The weather outside may be “frightful” but don’t neglect your most important accessory – you.

‘Huile Prodigieuse Or’ by Nuxe (available at Space NK) is a brilliant multi tasking oil that promises to ‘nourish and repair’ and delivers a beautiful golden sheen – use on face and body and hair, this is your party season hero! £24.00 50ml/ £38.00 100ml. CS

ABOUT THE HOUSE OF PANDORA

Style Tips “Know when to fold” If you’re in head to toe sequins (not a bad situation to find Feva, yourself in) – just £289 let the dress do the talking!

Sometimes less is... brilliant.

“Be bold” With the exception of hosiery, black isn’t always the last word in style – yes it’s always chic and very safe, but don’t be tempted to hide in it all season and shy away from colour. Why not break the mould and opt for an unexpected winter bright at your next occasion?

And so my final ten cents is this; experiment and take a risk.

Don’t worry if it doesn’t pay off – because you’ve always got January for burying your shame and reinventing yourself!

About me; Your hoarder next door – lives in Montpellier, designer, a finder and the founder of www.thehouseofpandora.com

The House of Pandora is a comprehensive online resource offering an inspiring edit of vintage fashion and homewares, including hard-to-find collectable pieces from highly-coveted labels and a carefully sourced mix from around the world.

We also offer upcycled and reworked pieces, lovingly resurrected from original vintage garments and textiles.

We can also be found at selected markets, vintage fairs and festivals around the country as well as our own pop-up shops. For more information keep in touch with us via facebook, twitter, pinterest or by signing up to our newsletter.

DECEMBER 2012

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DECEMBER 2012

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fashion Lalique Tulips Vase £260

Beards Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring £27,500

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se £150

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Just some of the beautiful gifts available from Beards this Christmas, all gift wrapped especially for you.

Make this Christmas one to remember with Beards. Now available in store and online.

70, The Promenade, Cheltenham | www.beards.co.uk DECEMBER 2012

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Lower Ground Floor, 105 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW Tel: 01242 530598

www.lauraleighhairdressing.co.uk

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hair doctor “Make it your time to shine with a hairstyle that’s fit for the stars. Christmas is a time when everyone wants to look their best. There are lots of parties on the horizon, so it is a great time to try out a range of different looks. Old style Hollywood glamour is a universal look that I think people should consider for this party season.

Follow my top tips to help you stand out from the crowd, with this ultimate guide to creating glamorous party hair at home... to make you look like you have your stylist on speed dial.”

Perfect party hair

Photography by Rob Wheatman

THE BARDOT TOP KNOT

Sebastian Pre step: Wash hair using ditioner and Volupt shampoo and con g product blow-dry using a volumisin like Sebastian Volupt spray.

1. Back-brush hair. ny on the 2. Place hair into a high po fingers to r you top of the crown. Use much rks wo s rake the hair back, thi sh. better than using a bru a top knot 3. Use the pony to create itself in a d un by looping the hair aro place in s thi circular motion. Keep with hair grips. s from the 4. Loosely pull out strand and to e fac top knot to frame the e. add softness and textur p earrings 5. Finish off with some dro is ideal le sty e for extra glamour. Th height. s add it for shorter women as lines. jaw e uat It also helps to accent

THE VIXEN BEEHIVE

Pre step: wash and blowdry hair using Sebastian Volupt shampoo and condition er and blowdry using Volupt Thickening spra y.

1. Spray the roots of the hair with a brus hable hairspray from Sebastian and allow to dry.

Separate your fringe and clip out of the way.

2. Starting just behind the fringe section backcomb your hair in horizontal sections .

Push each section forward as you finis h.

3. Once the hair is all backcombed, sepa rate the top section up to the crown, forward. With the remaining hair from the crown to the nape, smooth back into a messy pony tail or a classic French roll.

4. Gently brush the top section back usin g a soft bristle brush being careful not to lose the height, and pin neatly into the French roll or ponytail.

5. Sweep the remaining fringe section to the side and secure with a firm hold hairspray like Sebastian Shaper Fierce hair spray.

VES GLAMOUR WhAa sha mpoo

wit Pre step: Wash your hair h as Sebastian suc designed to lock in shine ioner. dit con Trilliance shampoo and t protective spray 1. Spritz the hair with a hea ay to add shine spr such as Sebastian Trilliant and a light hold. a large round 2. Blow dry your hair using bouncy finish. th oo barrel brush to give a sm r around a hai of 3. Wind chunky sections ate large loose curls. cre to large curling tong or wand to help add extra curl over the same sections n the t ou r hai r you ush 4. Br definition and shine. oss and fix with ls with Sebastian Liquid Gl cur the te ara sep , ish fin 5. To irspray.

Sebastian Shine Define Ha

(All products and hair styling tools are available to buy from Laura Leigh Hairdressing Cheltenham) Laura Leigh Hairdressing, Lower Ground Floor, 105 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW, Tel:01242 530598; www.lauraleighhairdressing.co.uk

DECEMBER 2012

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fashion

Art Couture Painswick This month, we meet Mila Harris-Mussi, the winner of the Art College category at the 2012 Art Couture Painswick Festival...

Art Couture Painswick is committed to helping students from schools and colleges to realise their artistic ambitions by providing them with an inspiring challenge when creating entries for their annual competition. As well as offering workshops and other encouragement, the Art Couture team helps to promote students’ work at other venues throughout the year. In addition to valuable cash prizes for school children and students, work placements are offered as prizes to the Art College category winners, giving them a fabulous opportunity to work with professionals in their chosen field.

This year’s first prize-winner in the Art College category was Mila Harris-Mussi, and from the three work placements on offer, she selected to spend time with Denise Innes at the British School of Millinery in Cheltenham.

Here is what Mila wrote about her experience...

“I am a student doing my art foundation course at Stroud College. For the past two years I have entered pieces of my work into the Art Couture Painswick competition. I decided to enter because I felt it would be a really good experience and a great way for people to see my work and get their responses. I was also hoping to make some good contacts that I might use in the future to gain jobs and/or work experience.

This year I was incredibly surprised when my dress ‘Insides Out’ won the first prize in the Art College category. It came as such a shock because looking around I really felt that all the garments were of an incredible standard and really interesting and inspiring.

The inspiration for my garment ‘Insides Out’ came from the artist Dr Gunter Von Hagens. He makes his work by injecting a form of liquid plastic into different parts of the body; he then dissolves the rest of the tissue and you are left with that structure alone. The DECEMBER 2012

Left: Mila Harris-Mussi at work Below: Mila Harris-Mussi (centre) with her costume modelled by her sister, Rhian Harris-Mussi and Todd Lynn, Patron of Art Couture Painswick

pieces that particularly influenced my garment were those made from the circulatory system of the blood. Through a series of experiments and playing around with materials I decided I wanted to use knit to create the dress.

I was lucky enough to win a money prize, as well as an excellent opportunity to work with milliner Denise Innes. I spent a week working with Denise; it was really fun, interesting and exciting. I learned how to block a hat as well as what materials you can and can’t use; the way they work and what is best for what.

I also learnt how to ‘trim’ a hat using felt and wire to create flowers and other decorative forms.

Denise helped me understand the art of millinery and the skills involved to create a hat. I really enjoyed the experience and I have come away with a vast amount of knowledge that I think will benefit me in the future.

I am looking to go into Textiles as I’ve discovered over my two years at college doing Art and Design that that is the area I find inspiring and exciting. I especially enjoy working with material, stitch, and knit. I like the repetitive process of knit

and weave and how something can form through such a simple action repeated over and over again. I’m currently working with the knitwear designer Jacqueline Kroft at Redheart knitwear. I love working on the knitting machine and watching a collection come together!”

Denise Innes was so happy with this collaboration with Art Couture Painswick that she has offered a similar placement to an Art College winner from next year’s Festival. So students out there will want to start planning their inspired creations.

A good place to start is at the Art Couture Painswick website: www.acpfestival.co.uk. There you can see the categories and themes for next year, more inspirational photos and all the details about entries. CS

www.acpfestival.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2012

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reader competition

Meet the WINNERS!

e. The 10 ic competition from the September issu tast glam our won who es ladi y luck e The results of the thre winners were treated to a at the Novostrata pop-up shop and the team the by ted hos was nt eve r nge you Blushes and a photo years a, lunch at Gusto, a hair makeover at Fev at ke Bla e hell Mic ist Styl with n alk show. style consultatio were then unveiled to the public in a catw ks loo g nin win The hy. rap tog pho shoot with Venture shot at Venture Photography Makeover results

ROB WHEATMAN

After

After

Helen Yendall, 48 from Blockley:

“The day was fabulous and I love my new look. My hair's been the same for years and I always go for the same type of clothes, so it’s nice to try something diff erent for a change!”

Sarah Browne, 43 from Cheltenham: Karen Nice, 54 from Brighton: “It was a great girlie day out. I love entertaining and have a large circle of friends so it’s exciting to have a new look to show off. I’ve enjoyed using the new beauty products too.”

“After trialling the Novostrata product range my skin feels firmer, softer and silky smooth.

My laughter lines are disappearing too, I feel as if I have had a face lift.”

www.novostrata.co.uk

DECEMBER 2012

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk 1

style event 2

3

4

6

5

s

A-List first anniversary celebrations

Dr Zulia Frost celebrated a year of offering treatments in Cheltenham with a Champagne reception for customers old and new at their treatment rooms at Maple House in Cheltenham. The pioneering Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion was demonstrated clearly showing the effect it had in making skin look younger and more vibrant. Photography by Marcus Green www.marcus99.com 7

9

8

10

11

12

1 Sam and Zach Bawden. 2 Caroline Von Behr and Mandy Barley. 3 Demonstrating the Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion. 4 Mr and Mrs F Mills.

5 Claudia Ehler and Dr Zulia Frost. 6 Sally Layland, Heidi Dawson and Claudia Ehler. 7 Dr Zulia Frost and Leann Bridwell. 8 Lyndey James.

9 Demonstrating the Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion. 10 Customers watching the demonstration. 11 Claudia Ehler and the celebration cake.

12 Anna Freeman and Sally Layland

DECEMBER 2012

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“What does Santa Claus say when he loses his hearing aid?”

Huh? Huh? Huh?

If your hearing is not quite as it was

Call 0800 019 9575 for your FREE assessment

Head Office: No. 1 Imperial Square, Cheltenham GL50 1QB

FREEPHONE: 0800 019 9575 www.imperialhearing.com

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Cheltenham | Tewkesbury | Stow | Chipping Campden | Shipston-on-Stour Newnham-on-Severn | Winchcombe COTSWOLD STYLE DECEMBER 2012

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beauty

WINTER SKIN

SOS

As the central heating blasts out, our skin can suffer a lot during the winter months. The lack of natural light and cold and blustery winds can wreak havoc with our complexions at a time when we all want to look our best. We bring you a selection of must-have skincare products… just in time for Christmas!

2

EVE LOM ‘TLC Radiance Cream’

3

Jurlique ‘Rose Hand Cream’

50ml £45. Available from: SpaceNK Apothecary, 21 The Promenade Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL50 1LE. Also available: www.uk.spacenk.com Save your face with this daily moisturiser, light enough to use daily it will give your skin a glowing radiance, making it appear brighter with subtle Rose Otto making it ideal for reapplication during the day without becoming overpowering.

Molton Brown ‘Paradisiac Pink Pepperpod Body Exfoliator’

1

250ml £29. Available from: Molton Brown Store, 33-41 The Promenade Cheltenham Gloucestershire GL50 1LE. Also available: www.moltonbrown.co.uk Save your skin with this body scrub, gently buff away dead skin with this enlivening body exfoliator. Its warming pink pepperpod fragrance is a great way to start winter mornings.

4

Neal’s Yard Remedies – Rejuvenating Frankincense Facial Oil

£26.75 30ml. Available at: Neal’s Yard Remedies, Rotunda Terrace, Montpellier Street, Cheltenham. Also available online: www.nealsyardremedies.com.

Save your face from winter and ageing with this rich facial oil. Containing frankincense, it improves skin tone, treats ageing whilst tightening and toning the skin. The frankincense smell is perfect for winter.

DECEMBER 2012

40ml £17.99 Available from: Whole Foods Market, Kingsditch Retail Park, Cheltenham.

This hand cream is ideal for fighting the harsh winter winds that can be so drying to our hands. This is a rich, hydrating cream enriched with the essence of rose, calendula and viola. Once applied the effects are noticeable immediately; with softer, more supple and younger looking skin.

5

Dr Hauschka Rose Day Cream

£23.95 30ml. Available at Nutrition Centre (Cheltenham, Tewkesbury and Cirencester) Save your face with this intensively moisturising rose day cream, with extract of rosehip oil – a known antioxidant, it will rejuvenate your skin as well as reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Also comes in Rose Day Cream Light, which is ideal for more oily skin.

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We think appointments should fit around your schedule, not ours.

Don’t just go private, go personal.

At Nuffield Health, you are so much more than just a patient. That’s why we look to book appointment times that best suit you and why you’ll always have the same dedicated team of experts looking after you and your family. With our experience, expertise and high quality of service, it’s no wonder 9 out of 10 patients would recommend us*. For a better hospital experience, go personal with Nuffield Health.

Call Cheltenham Hospital on 01242 246552 or visit nuffieldhealth.com/cheltenhamhospital

* 2009 Patient Satisfaction Survey. 96% of our patients state that they would recommend Nuffield Health to friends or family.

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s

s

le ty ss es sin bu

business style In this month’s business style we talk to Brunsdons, Rickerbys and Julie Jelf, plus find out more about the Surviving Winter 2012 Appeal...

Sponsored by

S PE CI AL I S T S I N B U S I N E S S I T S U P P O R T

S E V E R N S I D E S O F T W A R E LT D , T H E W H I T E H O U S E , N O .

PA R K , Q U E D G E L E Y, G L O U C E S T E R , G L 2

2AQ.

3 W H E AT S T O N E C O U R T, W AT E R W E L L S B U S I N E S S 0 1 4 5 2 7 2 0 2 5 0 ; W W W. S S L - U K . N E T

TEL:

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Barbara Jordan, Divorce and Family Law Laywer at Harrison Clark answers your family law questions

Q

I married my wife some ten years ago and we have no children. When I married her my business was doing well, but it has since gone on to do exceptionally well and my wife has become increasingly extravagant and used to a very high standard of living. She works part-time but only for pin money, although she could easily obtain really quite high paid work if she chose to do so.

My wife now wants a divorce and her Solicitor has said that, because my business is doing very well, my wife can expect to have a set proportion of my income by way of spousal maintenance, even though in my view this completely exceeds her genuine month to month income needs.

As things stand, my wife is already making a claim over my capital, to which she has contributed little or nothing, and I think it outrageous that I should have to pay a set proportion of my future income to my wife when, in my view, it is far more than she really needs. What can I do?

A

I think you're wife's Solicitor is wrong in law and I do not think that his or her view will be adopted by the Court. In the case of B & S (2012) EWCH 265 (FAM) Mr Justice Mostyn stated clearly that in his view the sharing principle that applies to matrimonial assets should not apply to post-separation earnings. He stated in terms that in most divorces maintenance for a spouse should be assessed by reference to needs alone and, whilst the needs of a woman who is used to a high standard of living may be interpreted slightly more generously than the needs of a wife married to a man on average earnings, your wife cannot expect to be "kept in the style to which she has become accustomed" by you.

She will have to explain to the Court what her reasonable needs are and her maintenance will be assessed on that basis. Indeed, if your wife is capable of going out to work and contributing towards her own upkeep, I have no doubt that the Court will expect her to do so and will assess her spousal maintenance needs accordingly.

No Liability is accepted for the advice and information in this article in respect of individual matters. Please contact our team on 01242 269198 for tailored advice.

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charity

Gloucestershire Surviving Winter 2012 appeal launches Gloucestershire Community Foundation (GCF) has launched its Surviving Winter 2012 appeal, to raise money for older and vulnerable people at risk in Gloucestershire this winter. The appeal is being partnered by Saga and supported by celebrities including Denise Robertson and Stephen Fry. Surviving Winter launches at a time when people in Gloucestershire receive their Winter Fuel Payments – which many feel they don’t need. GCF collects and distributes the donations locally to help older and vulnerable people affected by fuel poverty this winter.

Sally Booth, GCF Chief Executive said: “Winter is a dangerous time for Gloucestershire’s older people. There are 550,983 households in fuel poverty in the region and around half of those include somebody over 60. Each year in Gloucestershire around 300 more people

aged 65 or over die in the winter months than in other months of the year. For every winter related death there will be dozens of people suffering illness and hardship.

GCF wants to do something to help and through our Surviving Winter appeal we can target those locally who are struggling to stay warm, and also tackle the problem of isolation among older

people during winter. Older people can become more cut off and struggle to leave the house in the colder months.

Last year we were able to help 226 people in Gloucestershire through our Surviving Winter appeal.

If you are not fuel-poor, please think about donating some or all of your Winter Fuel Payment. You could help an older person to survive this winter.

You can donate by visiting our website at www.gloucestershirecommunity foundation.co.uk (see the link to the Surviving Winter Appeal). Alternatively, please send cheques made payable to Gloucestershire Community Foundation and mark them Surviving Winter Appeal to Gloucestershire Community Foundation, C/o EDF, Barnett Way, Barnwood, Gloucestershire. GL4 3RS. Any money you donate will be spent locally.” CS

Surviving Winter Appeal – Donation Last year over 300 older and vulnerable people in Gloucestershire died from causes attributable to the cold and poor living conditions. The majority affected were over 75 years old. Older people living alone are most at risk.

Gloucestershire Community Foundation is asking you to donate your Winter Fuel payment (if you are over 60 and receive it from the Government) and/or make a donation to help those desperately needing extra support during the winter.

The money raised by the appeal will be used to award grants which will be directly targeted to help those locally who struggle to get through the winter and will help change local older peoples’ lives for the better.

Post Code: ……………......................…………..

Email: .………………………..................................………

Please gift aid my donation. Please tick the box I confirm I am a UK Taxpayer and I pay an amount of income tax or capital gains tax at least equal to the tax reclaimed by the charity.

Signature: …………………………………………..............

Date: …………………………………………......................

I wish to make a donation of £………… to the Surviving Winter Appeal.

I pledge to donate my Winter Fuel Payment to the Gloucestershire Community Foundation’s Surviving Winter Appeal Name: (PLEASE PRINT): ……………………………………………………………….…

Home Address: …………………………………………....... ……………………..............................................................

DECEMEBER 2012

Please return, together with your cheque made payable to Gloucestershire Community Foundation to: Gloucestershire Community Foundation, C/o EDF Energy, Barnett Way, Barnwood, Gloucestershire. GL4 3RS

Your donation is really appreciated.

Registered charity no: 900239 To find out more about the campaign please visit: www.survivingwinter.org.uk where you can also find your nearest community foundation in your area.

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Christmas Open Day Come and visit Prescott Shooting School For A Festive Extravaganza and find out what we do best!

Saturday 15th December

• • • • •

Fun for the whole family with have-a-go activities Special one day offers in the shop!

Huge range of gift ideas for those who have it all!

Open clay shoot Come and talk to Daniel and his friendly team about all your shooting & country sports requirements. • Gunsmith advice, tips & tricks to help look after & maintain your guns • Plus loads more!

Christmas Special One Day Deals In The Shop

What Can We Do?

Clay Shooting Practice (Licence Holders Only) 50 Bird Sporting re Entry 2 Man Christmas Turkey Flush!

Come and have a go!

No Experience Required!

Minimum age 12 Have A Go Clay Shooting ÂŁ25-25 Shots, Professional Instruction & All Equipment Provided FREE Have a go Archery & X-Bows FREE Have a go Air Rifles

Spend £150 • Tweed Clothing Ranges From Alan Paine Country Collection • Aigle Fleeces & Wellington Boots • Top Gun Clothing & Accessories • Croots Leather Accessories • Viyella Shirts • Brattonsound Gun Cabinets • Private Shooting Tuition Offers

or more in the shop and receive a

50% off voucher for a shooting lesson! Great extra Christmas present!

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on Twi er

COTSWOLD STYLE

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07

96

Cutsdean

B4

Pinnock Wood Farm, Nr Winchcombe, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL54 5AX tel: 01242 673542 mob: 07921 951477 email: dan@prescottshooting.com

Ford Prescott Shooting

Temple Guiting

DECEMBER 2012

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business

Tuned in to the future In this series of articles, Brunsdon CEO Brian Morman introduces some of the people that contribute to the company’s success story. This month we meet Compliance, Training, Projects and Integration Manager, Ian Dickinson

Ian Dickinson QUICK FACTS Title: Compliance, Training, Projects & Integration Manager Status: Single Interests: Music, Badminton and travel… and work!

Influence: Lin Dan, (China) Men’s Single No.1 Badminton player, because his sense of self-belief, natural ability and work ethic is astonishing

with Brian Morman Brian Morman ACII ABIBA Dip FA is an Independent Financial Adviser and CEO of Brunsdon Financial Services Ltd, which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

Tel: 01452 623 623 Email: brian.morman@brunsdon.co.uk

Web: www.brunsdon.co.uk

DECEMBER 2012

Unique ability. We all have it in some form or another. It’s what defines us and sets us apart from the crowd. Usually, in my experience, it takes the form of a narrow set of skills that allows us to become expert in one or two aspects of our lives.

But there are a very limited number of people who genuinely excel on many levels. If you like – and this may appear to be a contradiction – their unique ability is to be multi-talented. Ian Dickinson is one of those rare individuals.

His vision of the bigger picture is extraordinary. As past Chairman of the South West Region of the British Insurance Brokers Association (BIBA), a board member of the National BIBA Committee and BIBA Regulatory Working Party, and a member of the Financial Services Authority’s Smaller Businesses Practitioner Panel, Ian is influential in shaping the very future of the industry itself.

“Change is our biggest challenge,” says Ian. “Markets are constantly evolving, both in terms of products that are relevant and those that add value – and in the way they are distributed. We need to appreciate how today’s clients want to receive advice from us and how their accounts should be administered. One thing that will never change, however, although it always represents a challenge, is ensuring that the client’s interests are uppermost.

Companies that can’t grasp this are destined to fail. At Brunsdon, we recognise that consummate professionalism is the key to unlocking business opportunities. That’s why, as a senior manager, I strive to ensure our staff are trained to the highest level and are fully up to speed with emerging issues.”

Ian has also taken on the role of Projects and Integration Manager to help steer Brunsdon through its ambitious expansion plans in readiness for the

upturn in the economy. But he is quick to reassure that none of this will detract from his mission to promote the company’s core values. He says, “The principles and corporate culture of integrity, value and service on which the firm has flourished since 1932 are still highly relevant today and I see it as my job to make sure this ethos is carried forward.”

I call Ian ‘Brunsdon’s Mr. Motivator,’ because I think his technique for positively influencing others is something quite special, and is based firmly on mutual respect. As he says, it’s all about creating a feeling of true worth, confidence and purpose. “It’s amazing how innovative people can be once they are respected, have the right professional tools and are given a sense of responsibility. At the end of the day, it’s about spotting natural talent and creating an environment for it to thrive.”

Ian believes in working hard and playing hard. An extremely accomplished musician (cornet and flugel horn), he’s been involved in the brass band scene since the age of 17 and was a member of the Sun Life band for 20 years, which involved foreign tours, CDs, BBC broadcasts and TV work. Today, he is Musical Director of Wotton-Under-Edge Band.

He also plays Badminton regularly, which he says keeps him fit physically and mentally and allows him to take on more!

Take on more? I can’t believe he has time for anything else.

So how does he see his future panning out? “I plan to remain at Brunsdon as long as they’ll have me,” he says. “I see my future role becoming increasingly busy and challenging. Retirement does not fit into my plans. Why retire from the things that you enjoy?”

Those are sentiments I wholeheartedly endorse, from a man I totally respect and admire. CS

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Get the smile you always wanted! before

after

Have your teeth professionally whitened and your smile could be 10 times whiter and brighter this Christmas!

now £300

was £600

(Book before 23 December 2011)

after

before

If you are fed up with your crowns no longer matching fit new Cerec crowns the same day and transform your smile!

Give a Cheltenham Dental Spa & Implant Clinic GIFT VOUCHER this Christmas and bring a smile to their face!

Cheltenham Dental Spa & Implant Clinic reserve the right to refuse treatment to any person considered unsuitable upon oral examination.

now £600 per crown

was £1200

(Book before 23 December 2011)

Cheltenham Dental Spa and Implant Clinic 1, Royal Crescent, Cheltenham GL50 3DB

Tel: 01242 238700 www.cheltenhamdentalspa.com

A L L A B O U T YO U. A L L A B O U T YO U. A L L A B O U T YO U. A L L A B O U T YO U. A L L A B O U T YO U.

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business

A savvy woman’s guide to online shopping As the weather turns cold with the first frost sparkling on roof tops you may be thinking that this is a crisp reminder that Christmas will soon be knocking on the door.

Or, as I have been doing, you may be sitting at your kitchen table sipping a nice cup of matcha tea calmly realising that, alongside the constant juggling of work, family life and the irresistible party season, those long Christmas shopping queues are just not worth the effort this year.

And with that, and perhaps a skinny latte, online Christmas shopping becomes the chosen route. Before you place your orders, however, you may want to check a few things. This is to save you from having to go down the fraught road of post-purchase negotiation with call centres operating abroad when you eventually decide to return the, ultimately superfluous, backup present you bought in a panic at the eleventh hour.

So, what should you do? First of all, make sure that the retailer you are about to place an order with has displayed their

with Carolina Oprea full company and contact details, including an e-mail address. If you are thinking about placing orders with lesser known retailers, the really savvy move is to check Company’s House website (to see that the company is not a ghost of shams past, or present), as well as a quick internet search to see if there are any signs of complaints made by disgruntled customers.

Secondly, look out for hidden charges.

These usually crop up towards the end of your transaction in the form of additional credit card or delivery fees. It is not enough for the retailer to tell you that there may be additional charges pegged onto the price tag you are looking at. They should, in fact, also give you full and complete information about all costs and charges at the outset because that is what the law says.

Thirdly, look out for restrictions placed on your ability to return your order and to get a refund.

This is where you need to be most savvy, because, in fact, the law gives you the right to cancel your order and get a refund if you do it within seven days from the date of receiving it (unless you ordered bespoke or perishable items). This is in addition to whatever returns policy the retailer may have in place, such as the usual 28 days for faulty items. Even if the retailer informs you of your seven days’ rights, some insist, for example, that you return the product in its original packaging or state. These types of conditions are unenforceable if they stop you from inspecting the goods you ordered. Let’s face it, you are not going to know whether your latest wardrobe wonder party frock is all that it promises to be unless you try it on!

The good news is that all these things I mentioned are just some of the rights that you have by law. If you wish to be really savvy, look at the website of the Office of Fair Trading and contact us for further information, as we regularly advise on the minefield of legislation relating to online retail. Armed with a few bits of useful information and a nice glass of Chianti, there will be nothing stopping you from drawing up this year’s Christmas-present-list in good time and from buying them online. Good hunting! CS

For further information or assistance, please contact Chris Morgan IT specialist at Rickerbys LLP Solicitors or Carolina Oprea on 01242 246479 or email Chris at chris.morgan @rickerbys.com or Carolina at carolina.oprea@rickerbys.com

DECEMBER 2012

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travel

Max Le Grand treks the

HIMALAYAS

Just prior to Princess Elizabeth’s coronation in June 1953, Mount Everest was conquered by New Zealander, Edmund Hillary and Nepalese Sherpa, Tenzing Norgay. They had reached the 29,000 foot summit of the tallest mountain in the world.

When Hillary and Tenzing returned to Kathmandu, they faced the world’s press.

A fellow Kiwi journalist, asked Hillary of his thoughts. He replied with typical bluntness. “It was a relief that we had knocked the bastard off ”. One Nepalese national newspaper, head lined the quote word verbatim. The wondrous British backed achievement, had topped every news bulletin.

Probably in respect to the newly crowned monarch of Great Britain and Commonwealth countries, Hillary then waxed reverentially. “We were on top for about fifteen minutes. Views over the Himalayan ranges were pretty impressive.

The peak is a symmetrical, beautiful snow cone”. Hillary let Tenzing reach the peak first, to get the iconic picture.

My son mentioned the idea of trekking to Everest base camp. But, the Doctor dissuaded me from contemplating Everest. An alternative was the picturesque Ama Dablum base camp. My guardian angel reckoned a person of my vintage, should follow the shadow of Hilary and Tenzing from Kathmandu to Lukla, to acclimatise properly to the altitude.

Far from being a natural mountaineer, I did tackle Mount Snowdon prior to Nepal. We reached the Welsh peak ‘Yr Wyddfa’ in just over three hours. No, we did not catch the mountain train!

In Nepal, time was of the essence. We took the spectacular flight from Kathmandu, to the precarious air strip at Lukla. A sensational trip, especially when we landed upon the steeply inclined runway. Fortunately, we had 24 hours in Lukla to adjust to the thinner air. We were already at 9,000 feet. Thrice the height of Snowdon.

Our baggage was carried by a handful of yak’s that went on ahead to Phakding.

DECEMBER 2012

We followed our leader, Sherpa Prasant, his subordinate Migma and two assistant’s Chumbga and Kami. Our path hugged the raging Dudh Koshi river. We climbed in brilliant sunshine, a snow storm, and were pummelled by a high wind. One suspended bridge, festooned with coloured ribbons that flapped horizontally in the gale; oscillated so much, one of our party was coaxed across.

What were narrow supply paths used

by Hillary and Tenzing, are now a rock based track. We reached our overnight digs to be welcomed with hot herbal tea and a traditional rice based meal of meat and fresh vegetables.

Next morning, we faced the long 3,000 foot traverse from Phakding to Namche Bazar. My constitution was sorely

examined. Between Jorsale and our objective, I felt like a pregnant woman carrying quads, all kicking at once.

Lethargy weakened my legs. I had to stop regularly to catch my breath. The final stroll to Namche Bazar at 12,000 feet was agonising. I couldn’t wait to check into Khumbu Lodge. I sped to the nearest toilet. Sherpa Prasant administered five iodine tablets.

Thankfully, the quads stopped kicking.

After a full day of acclimatisation, it was Sherpa Kami who suggested that I followed his every step to Tengboche.

He constantly reminded me “little steps” and sure enough I felt the benefit. I was no longer putting a strain on my body and knees. The reward was my first close up sighting of Mount Everest. I just sat down and wept with relief.

Tengboche Monastry dominated the settlement, against an awesome back cloth of the high Himalayas. The monks were overwhelmingly hospitable and good humoured. After lunch, we departed for our last stop at Pangboche.

By then, I felt integrated with the environment. At dawn, there was a steady climb along the soft earth traverse, to Ama Dablam base camp. It needed concentration. I was one slip away from oblivion. Facing the sheer Ama Dablam peak conjured the “eureka” emotion. We were surrounded by snow covered peaks. Sherpa Prasant offered a prayer for our safety.

Ama Dablam is 8 miles from the Everest base camp as the drunken crow flies. We were tempted by the highest edifice. But the taste of stew at the Highland Sherpa Lodge was also overwhelming. The return take off for Kathmandu from Lukla air strip, straight at an alarming rock face, was certainly character building. In my own small world, at nearly 16,000 feet, I had “knocked the bastard off.”

Well, almost. CS If you wish to traverse the Himalayas, call Rod Gethins on 01242 226578. www.worldsaparttravel.co.uk

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

Vinegar Hill Shopping Evening

s

Vinegar Hill hosted a Christmas shopping evening and showcased its stunning new Homeware department on the Mezzanine Level. A beautiful shopping emporium for Christmas gifts and treats for your home. Vinegar Hill supported Cheltenham’s National Star College with a fundraising raffle.

Photography by Rob Wheatman

DECEMBER 2012

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women in business

“I have discovered that I don’t know everything” Spending most of her time driving up and down the country to ensure that each and every one of her clients is well looked after, Julie arrives to be interviewed looking impeccable and with a friendly and welcoming manner. Testament to the job that she does (and loves); it is evident that Julie is a people person.

She always knew that she wanted to work with people, but is the first to admit that she didn’t just wake up one day and decide that she wanted to become a Financial Advisor. “I suppose that my journey was not mapped out for me as such, but each aspect links together rather nicely. I went to University in Leeds and was the first sponsored business student”, Julie explains, “I was placed within a sales team as somebody dropped out of telesales. I sat in and as I was a sponsored student I had little choice really and so I spent my summer making appointments for the sales team”.

“My degree was in Economics and I always knew that I wanted to work with people and so following some further experience working in sales, I made the decision to become a Financial Advisor.”

Julie is keen to shatter the myth that the natural course of progression is always to head towards working in management. As a dynamic and passionate business woman, she thrives on the buzz of sales and interacting with clients and admits that she has little interest in working in management.

“I am passionate about sales”, she says, “My clients have remained

This month, Julie Jelf, an Independent Financial Advisor at Jelf, shares the story of her business journey...

‘‘

...THAT KIND OF RELATIONSHIP CANNOT BE BUILT OVERNIGHT AND IT TAKES TIME TO GROW AND DEVELOP A BUSINESS RELATIONSHIP, IN THE SAME WAY AS IT DOES ANY OTHER RELATIONSHIP.”

incredibly loyal to me since I joined Jelf and I like to think that I am a trusted advisor to them. That kind of relationship cannot be built overnight and it takes time to grow and develop a business relationship, in the same way as it does any other relationship.”

Julie is keen to help others to develop within their chosen field and a sales academy was established at Jelf four years ago. “This idea is to prove to our sales people that you do not have to strive towards management and to open up the opportunities for mentoring within the sales team. The reaction has been incredibly positive.”

“This has been a great exercise for me as well”, Julie admits, “I have discovered that I don’t know everything and have gained as much from being a mentor as I hope the mentees have from having been mentored.”

“My mother is my greatest inspiration and made me who I am today”, Julie explains, “She encouraged me to attend Grammar school when all of my friends were heading off to Comprehensive school, and I am so grateful that she did. I am proud to work as a sales person and I may not be able to delegate, but I am organised!”

Julie, like many of us, is a list-maker and lives by lists. “I may have 58 things to do on the list, but when I tick them off that’s a huge sense of achievement!” CS

Sponsored by Women in Business is sponsored by Jelf, Westmoreland House, 80-86 Bath Road, Cheltenham. To find out more please contact Accounts Director Jim Stevenson on 01242 225860. jim.stevenson@jelfgroup.com or visit www.jelfgroup.com

DECEMBER 2012

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

Sponsored by

Savills Cheltenham The Quadrangle | Cheltenham | GL50 1PZ

01242 548000 cheltenham@savills.com

savills.co.uk

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For more information on our Festive Sunday Lunches, Christmas & New Years programme, Call Now.

Stanbrook Abbey, Callow End, Worcestershire, WR2 4TD 01905 830 195 | stanbrookabbey.com | info@stanbrookabbey.com DECEMBER 2012

...amazing retreats in spectacular locations

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

Beards Skyfall

s

Guests turned out in droves to support Maggie’s Charity at the Beards Jewellers and HR Owen exclusive premiere of the latest Bond ‘Skyfall’ film. The glamourous black tie event which featured diamonds from Beards and vintage Aston Martins from HR Owen raised thousands of pounds for Maggie’s.

Photography by Spencer McPherson

DECEMBER 2012

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Exuberation...

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Please drink responsibly

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sales@kontikiwines.com 07970 172416

DECEMBER 2012

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recipe with Ali Nightingale

Sue’s Supe r Lamb S hanks

All hail kit ch level of fi en suppers, with a nesse, a h low igh food facto r, and the comfort added bo of knowin nus g you can put the m to cook o eal n a slow, low heat to the pu and g o b for an h our or tw There’s h o. u cooking L ndreds of recipes for amb Shan ks, and I blatantly steal this from my in Law, Su Sister e (a ver y fine cook who tells ), me that s he s from som ewhere els tole it e, who probably sto who foun le it from an aunt, d it in a c lass book; suc h is the w ic cooker y ay with th recipe me e r r y-g We all ack o-round. nowledge Lamb Sha that nk classic, an s in Red Wine is a d I tend to to “if it ain’t broke, do w the n’t fix it” line with a tr This is m aditional favourite . y prefer re d method ing redien of prepara ts, becaus tion and e it’s incre and practi dibly tasty cally impo , h omely s sible to m need muc ess up. Yo h more th 250ml lam a u n mash and don’t a mound b stock a few veg of fluffy, 4 chopped etables to butter y “five a da anchovy fi contribute y”. llets 5 medium to your sized tom An incred atoes, qua ibly versa 1 tablespo rtered ti occasion on of dri from a sm le meal option, su ed Herbe 4 sprigs o iting ever s art dinner d family sup f e Provenc rosemar y y party to a pe e 1 tablespo casual before an r and it can even b o n re d c u d reheate r e ra p S n re a t lt p je ared the d & Pepper lly d, making the busy C ay it a g reat hristmas choice fo holidays. shanks fa r Yo irly cheap ly, even fr u can buy the although o z for en be bettere entertaining, g reat if you so wish, d and the quality m eat canno loc Butcher o t Usin r the supe al far m shop, a su g a large c perior r new W h in Chelten ast iron o le Food’s ham wou coat the s emporium ld be my hanks in s pot (Le Cr ueset o supplier o r similar) easoned fl half of th f choice. our, eo and set as il until browned. R and sear in ide. Top th emove th e shanks e pot up w garlic, on ions and it h oil and car rots, a add the minutes o nd sau 4 lamb sh n a low to anks medium h té for five tomatoes, eat, then 4 tablespo wine and add the on the lamb, heat until and bump 3 tablespo s flour, well season boiling po up the ons of oli ed in and ancho t. Then ad ve oil 2 car rots, vies and s d stock, h chunked e erbs as and cook 2 onions, in the ove on. Pop a lid on th sliced n for abo e around 16 pot ut 2.5 hou 3 cloves o 0°C. rs at f garlic, c r us 500ml of hearty red hed Now if th wine ere’s any red wine supersize left, g o po d glass. If ur y not, open another b ourself a ottle. CS

Method

Ingredients

DECEMBER 2012

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SPICE LODGE IS OPEN AS USUAL OVER THE FESTIVE PERIOD CHRISTMAS DAY: 12noon-5PM BOOKING ESSENTIAL NEW YEARS EVE BOLLYWOOD & BHANGRA BOOK NOW LIMITED SPACES

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DECEMBER 2012

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S For very fir the st time

We are CHRIST open on MAS D AY!

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GINGERBREAD JINGLE BELLS Ingredients

30ml Vanilla Vodka 15ml Coffee Liquor 30ml Homemade Gingerbread Syrup 30ml Double Cream

Decoration Mix of Gingerbread cookie and brown sugar Spray on top Holly leaf stencil

Method Moisten rim of chilled Martini glass with orange wedge. Sprinkle the gingerbread cookies and brown sugar mix onto small plate and dip moistened rim into the mix to coat lightly. Fill cocktail shaker with ice.

Add all the ingredients and shake. Strain into Martini glass and...

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Teas Throughout December We will be offering Festive High Tea for Two, including a glass of Prosecco and a stand full of homemade Christmas treats including turkey and stuffing sandwiches, cranberry scones, a selection of festive fancies and a choice of loose leaf teas.

Bookings taken from 3-5pm Monday-Saturday throughout December (excluding Boxing Day).

Party sizes up to 12 guests may order on the day.

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Need a Venue for your

Christmas Party?

With December rapidly filling up, it’s time to start thinking about booking up for your Christmas party, over the past 17 years we have built up great experience and reputation on hosting a great range of Christmas parties, suitable for everyone, whether you need a table for 2 or 150, we take the hassle out of your special day.

We are open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner!

STORY TELLER

Great Location, Brilliant Atmosphere, Wonderful Food...

Whatever you are in the mood for you will find it.

Restaurant and Wine Room 11 North Place, Cheltenham, GL50 4DW

01242 250343 Follow @StorytellerRest www.facebook.com/StorytellerRestaurant 118

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DECEMBER 2012

000 Review Kim Bailey Dec 12:Layout 1

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restaurant review

Somewhere El se, Cirencester Reviewed by renowned ra cehorse traine

Christmas is ju st around the co rner, and that means that dreaded Christm so are those as parties!

I was talking w ith my secretar y about what we might do and w here we might go fo r our team’s Chr istmas party. Over the last couple of years, we have been to the Slug and L ettuce in Cheltenham which has done us proud, but this year we though ta change would be a good idea ... or I felt that I shou ld at least look at other alternat I know I have ives. ‘done’ Cirence ster already, via Soushi, but the suggestion was that I should vi Somewhere Els sit e. Somewhere Else in Cirence Never heard of ster? the place.

We found Som ewhere Else at the bottom of Castle Street. A We settled on s soon as Clare a mixture of T apas for our st and I walked in w both knew we er e surprised by arters; we we were in for a fu how good they n night. The bar were; Mini Lam Kofta, Chorizo buzzing with yo was b and Butterbean ung people and Fricassee and an the welcome w outstanding Cri both war m and as spy Hen Egg. friendly. The m Yes, fun and di odern décor (t instantly gave w This was follow fferent. o me) ay to the feel of ed by a Classic an upbeat and Burger, and alth was tempted by interesting plac ough I e. their wonderful steaks I settled fresh fish, on a Settling down for their bed of butterbe to a glass of be ans.. they like er and wine, w butterbeans at found a table by e Somewhere Els the window an e. d Both selections excellent. After waited to be looked after; an were , we tried the M d we were. or ello Cherry Cru with Honey an d Stem Ginger mble Ice Cream, and good old- fash those ioned Profitero les.

As for the Chr istmas party id ea, Somewhere Else is an ideal place to take a party of mates or work mates . It has a buzzin g atmosphere and you are ce rtainly made to feel welcome.

They also have a hidden gem... an outstanding outside Caribbe an bar area behi nd the restaurant. Thi s is ideal for sm okers, but they can also cover the outside spac e and turn it in to a lively disco and party area.

Why not?

That’s what Chr istmas parties ar e all about.

I was really surp rised by Somew If you have ne here Else. ver been it is w ell worth a visit, we both th oroughly enjoye d our evening. It is a great meeting place for a drink and just as good to eat.

To those who know the place they will already be conv erted, so why no t add to the list. It is not ex pensive and th e good news is that they want to see you. CS

r Kim Bailey

Somewhere E lse 65 Castle St, C irencester, GL 7 1QD www.somewh ereelse.co.uk

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DECEMBER 2012

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CHRISTMAS TREATS I encourage you to take to your kitchens, pour yourself a glass of mulled wine, (warm spiced apple juice for the children), get those Christmas tunes blaring and the apron on and follow my guide to creating a few of my favourite festive gift ideas – Merry Christmas!

The countdown to Christmas is finally upon us, and I, like many others, get extremely excited when this moment arrives. Having reluctantly accepted that science and common sense prevent Santa from navigating that chimney, I have since found an outlet for my enthusiasm elsewhere. With several advent calendars dotted around the house, the spiced scent of mulled wine and mince pies wafting from the kitchen, and bottles of brandy lined up to feed the freshly baked Christmas

cakes; this is when my love affair with Christmas cooking truly began.

In my opinion, there is no better time to be sharing your culinary skills with your loved ones. After all, Christmas is a time for giving and receiving gifts, and I, like most of you I’m sure, love opening presents on Christmas morning. Whether it be stockings neatly placed at the end of the bed or the blind-folded parade into the living room to be greeted by a dazzling tree in all its glory and glistening parcels.

For me however, there is nothing better than being presented with a homemade gift, especially if it is edible. Every year, I put together festive hampers for family and friends, packed with various homemade jams, chutneys, pickles, sloe gin, mulled wine, truffles and baked goodies. It is incredibly easy, great fun to create, something the children can muck in with and the smile on the lucky receiver’s face makes it all so very worthwhile.

Santa’s Cookies – Dark chocolate, orange and cinnamon

Makes 22 Ingredients • 200g dark chocolate, roughly chopped • 120g brown muscovado sugar • 160g caster sugar • 225g butter • 2 large eggs • 2tbsp orange peel • 1tsp vanilla essence • 2tsp cinnamon • 525g plain flour • 1½tsp bicarbonate of soda • ½tsp salt Method • Preheat the oven 180°C

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• In a bowl, cream the butter and both sugars until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.

• Beat the eggs and add to the mixture along with the orange

peel and vanilla essence.

• Combine the flour, bicarbonate of soda and cinnamon and gradually stir into the mixture.

• Mix in the chocolate, wrap the cookie dough in cling film and place in the fridge for 2 hours until its firm enough to handle.

• Put the mixture onto a lightly floured surface and roll out ½ inch thick and cut out each cookie using a 3 inch cutter.

• Place the cookies spaced out on a sheet of greaseproof paper and bake in the oven for 15 minutes.

• Remove and place on a cooling rack to cool.

DECEMBER 2012

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recipe with Shelle Duffin

Snowy Rocky Roads Makes 20 Ingredients • 500g white chocolate, roughly chopped • 50g pistachio nuts, shells removed • 50g dried cranberries • 50g ginger biscuits, roughly chopped • 50g pink marshmallows, roughly chopped • 1tsp cinnamon

Method • Line a rectangular tin (roughly 10inches by 8inches) with greaseproof paper • Put the chocolate into a bowl with a tablespoon of water and place the bowl over a saucepan of boiling water, stirring until the chocolate has melted.

• Stir in the pistachios, marshmallows,

cranberries, biscuits and cinnamon.

• Spread the mixture evenly into the tin, an inch thick (optional décor add silver balls) and place in the fridge/freezer for 2 hours until firm.

• Chop into squares, 2ins x 2ins and dust with icing sugar.

Sloe Gin Truffles

Makes 25 Ingredients • 25g unsalted butter • 75ml double cream • 225g good quality Belgium chocolate • 75g stoned sloes, roughly chopped, softened using a pestle and mortar (dried cranberries or raisons are a good alternative • 2tbsp sloe gin To finish/for decoration • 100g good quality dark chocolate • Chopped roasted hazelnuts • Edible glitter • Christmas sprinkles

Method • Line a Swiss roll tin with baking parchment paper • In a saucepan, add butter, cream and slowing bring to the boil, stirring constantly, keeping on the heat for one minute before removing • Break the chocolate into small pieces and add to the cream, mixing until melted • Mix in sloes and sloe gin • Pour mixture into tin and chill in the fridge for 2 hours NB – very important that you thoroughly lick the bowl clean, mixture should always be tested!

• Cut truffle mixture into pieces, roll into balls, then place back in the fridge for 30 minutes • Finish by melting chocolate, dip balls into chocolate, allowing excess to drip off, and then roll in hazelnuts/edible glitter/Christmas sprinkles.

• Place in paper cases and back in the fridge to set

DECEMBER 2012

Peppermint Creams

Makes 30 Ingredients • 350g icing sugar • 1 large egg white • ½tsp peppermint extract

Method • Whisk the egg white and peppermint extract until fluffy but not stiff • Gradually add the icing sugar, whisking until mixture stiffens • Sprinkle icing sugar onto a board and roll the mixture out ½cm thick • Cut out shapes and place them on baking paper and place in the fridge overnight firm up

Extra inspiration: half dip each shape into some melted dark chocolate and leave to harden for at least 2 hours For more recipe ideas for the festive season, follow me on Twitter - @Shelle_Duffin or Facebook – Shelle Duffin – Food Writer/Cook, plus check out my blog – myboiledeggsandsoldiers@blogspot.com

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competition

A

new

level of

luxury Masterchef finalist and Cheltenham resident, Ben Axford, is set to raise the bar for luxury in the chocolate marketplace...

DECEMBER 2012

our unique frosted menu and devised a solution that avoids plastic insert trays.

All of which we hope will add to to the experience for our customers.”

“We wanted to make a product and deliver an experience that puts smiles on people’s faces when they receive, open and eventually eat our chocolates. We use only natural ingredients and aim to always deliver flavours that linger long on the palate and even longer in the mind.”

Benjamin Chocolatier will be the first chocolatier in the UK to use vintage chocolate to make filled chocolates.

Vintage chocolate is like vintage port.

Cocoa pods from only the best harvests are selected; the beans are harvested from these then stored and matured until being processed into chocolate some years later. The harvest will typically be from a single estate plantation and will have exceptional depth and length of flavour. In addition to this we use a secret method to make our ganaches (fillings) that allows us to

Ben is offering five lucky Cotswold Style readers the chance to each win a set of the Salted Caramel Collection chocolates. Traditional, Muscovado & Palm Blossom caramels are yours to devour in this 12 piece presentation, worth £15.95.

To enter, simply email your name, address and telephone number to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk by the closing date of January 1st 2013.

Five winners will be drawn at random and notified after this date. By entering this draw, entrants agree to be contacted by Benjamin Chocolatier in the future.

COMPETITION

Following a law degree from Cardiff University, Ben worked in telecoms and headhunting before quitting London to follow his passion for food. He bought a failing cheese and wine business, created the CheeseWorks brand and built a successful internet and wholesale side to the company. Ben sold the CheeseWorks in 2009 and after reaching the finals of the BBC’s Masterchef 2007, he set about providing private dining services to clients across the Cotswolds. “It was during this period that I realised that I should be focusing more on the chocolates I made as petit fours for my clients”, Ben explains, “Having spent nine years of my childhood growing up in Brussels, I was brought up on the world’s best chocolates, so it was surprising that I hadn’t made the leap to becoming a chocolatier before”.

Benjamin Chocolatier was born.

During his research, Ben returned to Brussels to spend time with chocolatiers, equipment manufacturers and packaging suppliers to see what he could learn.

“We’ve re-thought every aspect of the chocolate experience, from the way we make our chocolates - using a completely unique method for the ganache (filling), the ingredients we use, and the way they are decorated to how we package them. We’ve done away with traditional fold-out menus, introduced

Your chance to win!

showcase and layer both the flavour of the chocolate and the fruit, caramel or spice we add. This method has allowed us to develop flavours such as our Muscovado salted caramel, where you can taste all the treacly, sticky toffee pudding notes of the muscovado sugar. CS For more information contact: Benjamin Chocolatier Ltd – 01242 253 862 / 07984 480 446 crafted@benjaminchocolatier.co.uk www.benjaminchocolatier.co.uk

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Cheltenham Regency Hotel

Your Wedding is one of the greatest days of your life and at the BEST WESTERN Cheltenham Regency Hotel we will make sure that your every dream and detail is taken care of. From the first meeting to the last dance our dedicated team will be with you all the way.�

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

A red carpet welcome for the bride and groom.

OPTIONAL

A member of the hotel management team to act as master of ceremonies.

Dedicated Wedding Coordinator.

Upgrade on table linen in a rainbow

tailor your wedding menu to your

A drinks package and advice on the

Consultation with our head chef to requirements.

Silver cake stand and knife.

Preferential accommodation rates for your wedding Guests.

of colours. wine list.

ALSO AVAILABLE

Your wedding coordinator can also advise or arrange the following additional services at your request: Evening entertainment, bands and discos.

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Christmas Wine Tips, DON’T PANIC !

Top Tipster Wagers

Christmas is nearly upon us and it is time to make those delicate Yuletide decisions regarding which wines to enjoy with turkey, beef, game, nut roast, fish etc, not forgetting something special to accompany the all-important present giving ritual.

So, here are a few choices and tips for a truly cracking Christmas:

Champagne often appears during present opening time on Christmas day and the Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV will start the day off in style.Then the visitors will arrive and remember that when you are serving wines with canapés, you can offer lighter styles and lower in alcohol wines like the zingy Tesco Finest Vinho Verde 2011, abv 11.5%, Portugal, £7.29 or the easy drinking off dry Three Choirs Willow Brook 2010, abv 11%, £7.99, Waitrose, from one of our best English Vineyards or a soft, fruity red Bardolino La Predina Estate 2011, abv 12.5%, Italy, £7.99, M&S. With your turkey the Château la Chandellière Cru Bourgeois 2009 wlll be spot on, but if vegetarian nut roast is your thing, try the rich organic and biodynamic Visan Côtes du Rhône Villages Nature 2010 Domaine la Fourmente, France, £13.50 or £12.83 when purchasing any 12 mixed bottles, The Oxford Wine Company. If, like in our house, beef is a popular choice (Slatters, in Chadlington are an excellent family butchers) then the stunning La Motte Shiraz 2009, Franschoek, South Africa, £11.99, Majestic is perfect, whilst for game lovers, the full-bodied Quinta dos Roques 2009, Dao, Portugal, £13.99 10% discount on 6 or more mixed bottles, S.H. Jones will be more than a match.

DECEMBER 2012

Perrier-Jouët Grand Brut NV, abv 12.5%, Champagne, France, £38.49 to £29.99 December 5th – January 2nd. Stockist: Waitrose.

Famous Champagne House renowned for its consistent quality. Their Grand Brut NV is dry, elegant, and delicate – the perfect style of champagne to start your Christmas Day celebrations.

Oldenburg Vineyards Chenin Blanc 2011, abv 13.0%, Stellenbosch, South Africa, £16.50. Stockist: Berry Brothers & Rudd.

Winemaker Simon Thompson is making some elegant, high class wines and his oak aged Chenin Blanc is a smooth balance of citrus, exotic fruits, subtle oak and crisp acidity. Lovely with shellfish, risotto, or fish in cream sauce.

Château la Chandellière Cru Bourgeois 2009, abv 14.5%, Médoc, Bordeaux, £10.99 or £10.44 when purchasing any 12 mixed bottles. Stockist: The Oxford Wine Company.

Don’t overcrowd the cheeseboard, as three good cheeses will be ample. My suggestions are Colston Bassett Stilton, The Cotswold Delicatessen, matched with Taylors Late Bottled Vintage Port 2007,£13.99 down to £9.99, Majestic, Daylesford Organic Cheddar with Marqués de Cáceres Rioja Reserva 2005, Spain,£15.60, Haynes, Hanson & Clark and a goats cheese such as the delicious Alex James Little Wallop partnering a fine Sancerre from Domaine Vacheron 2011,France, £17.99-£19.50, Majestic, Daylesford.

With Christmas Pudding, a Malmsey Madeira like Blandy 5 Year Old, £12.99, 50cl bottle, S.H. Jones has the lovely

Cru Bourgeois wines from the stunning 2009 vintage represent good value and Château la Chandellière’s blend of Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon is a delicious palate enhancing combination of intense cassis, plums, damsons, cloves and violets, with friendly tannins. Decant a couple of hours beforehand, put on your Christmas hats and serve the turkey.

Tio Pepe Palomino Fino Sherry, Gonzalez Byass, abv 15%, Jerez, Spain, £9.99. Stockists: Sainsbury’s, Tesco.

Fino Sherry is lovely and fresh, and Tio Pepe is now including the bottling date on the back label. This dry, tangy, salty, nutty and refreshing Sherry is a class act, so bring out the salted almonds, manchego or smoked salmon.

sweetness and structure you will need for full dessert enjoyment.

For a couple of crowd-pleasing wines, which will keep the party hats on, try the good value white Zalze Bush Vine Chenin Blanc 2012,South Africa, £7.99, Waitrose and the excellent red Negroamaro Feudi di San Marzano 2011,Italy, £6.49, M&S. Cheers and Merry Christmas! CS

www.thewinetipster.co.uk twitter.com/ TheWineTipster

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Whole Foods is here

United States food giant, Whole Foods Market opened its first English store outside of London following a fabulous opening ceremony in Cheltenham.

Hundreds of people descended on the store throughout the day.

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Photography by Rob Wheatman

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‘‘

THE HAIRS ON THE BACK OF MY NECK STILL STAND UP WHEN I RUN PAST THE SHED… THAT’S HOW YOU KNOW YOU’RE PLAYING FOR THE RIGHT TEAM!”

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sport

Ten years on…

“Did I always intend to play rugby to earn a living? No!” Alex laughs, and yet the man before me could not be any more synonymous with the game. “You need to remember that rugby had only been professional for a year before I began playing and so I played the sport for fun rather than as a career move. But I wouldn’t change it now!”

Alex, or ‘Browny’, donned his cherry and white shirt in 2003, following a move from Bristol. Now celebrating ten years with Gloucester, his passion for not only the game, but for his club, is instantly apparent. “There aren’t many clubs like Gloucester”, Alex says, “They are massively followed and just awesome.

It’s great to play for them. The closest club to them is probably Leicester, in terms of loyalty and the generational love of the game. The hairs on the back of my neck still stand up when I run past the shed… that’s how you know you’re playing for the right team!”

His respect for Rugby Director, Dean Ryan, heavily influenced Alex’s decision to make the move to Gloucester, and today Alex is somewhat of a father figure at the club. Humble, charming, interesting, (and incredibly tall), Alex is a role model to the younger players and so it comes as no surprise that he was presented with the Player’s Player of the Year award after his debut year with the club.

Born in Bristol in 1979, he was very much inspired by his father’s passion for rugby. “Dad played for Bristol, and played at Clifton well into his 50s, however it’s probably partly down to a certain school teacher that I am now playing the sport on a professional level”, Alex says. He attended the respected Colston’s Collegiate School in Bristol and recalls, “I was pushed to play rugby by one of my teachers as I was so tall, but it wasn’t really something that I had wanted to do until then. In terms of driving my career, I probably have him to thank and so I certainly didn’t resent the encouragement.”

The committee has a whole variety of events planned to mark Alex’s DECEMBER 2012

With an impressive 234 appearances for Gloucester and 3 England caps to his name, Emma Roberts meets Alex Brown as he reflects on a decade with Gloucester Rugby Club…

A word from the artist, Katie Hough Testimonial year, including a clay pigeon shoot taking place on December 13th. “I have thoroughly enjoyed the last ten years”, Alex says, “Sadly I have to go into hospital this weekend for an operation to repair some nerve damage to my shoulder, but I have lots more rugby in me. I love the sport and want to be involved for a long time to come.

Most of the players at Gloucester have been with the club for years and that is testament to the club itself. Nick Wood is also marking his decade with the club this year and so we have lots of events planned together. I know that I will look back on this year with an immense amount of pride.” CS

“I was so excited when I was asked to design the logo for Alex’s benefit year. I felt inspired to create something lively and with movement, since the game itself is so rugged. My natural drawing style is very quick and fluid, although I usually work with dogs and horses rather than people. It was nice to focus on people for a change! Local Creative helped to bring it to life and it has been so lovely to work with everyone at the club. They have all been so passionate and enthusiastic and I can’t thank them enough.” www.katiehough.co.uk

For details of all the events that are planned, please visit www.alexbrownbenefityear.co.uk

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Last Night of the Proms

The amazing talent that we have here in Gloucestershire was shown off at its very best at the Last Night of the Proms at the Everyman Theatre. The musicianship was stunning and the atmosphere electric and made guests proud to be British and particularly proud to live in the Cotswolds! Where else would you find an entire theatre having a fabulous evening and all in aid of such a great cause... the charity Hop Skip and Jump?

Photography by Spencer McPherson 10

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1 Jeanette Bates and Dr Dawn Harper. 2 Jodie Mitchell, Harry Penton and Ryan Lambert. 3 Henry Hick and Andrew Hick. 4 John McDonnell, Irene Buckley and David Haughton. 5 Patricia Malvern, Kate Bridgen-Page and Pauline Bridgen. 6 John McDonnell and Peter Wilson. 7 Sarah Hick and Irene Buckley. 8 Trish Campbell and Chris Fowler. 9 Carolyn Folley and Anne Wilson. 10 Irene Buckley, Dr Dawn Harper, Jeanette Bates and David Houghton. 11 Phillipa Cook, Tony Smith and Val Houghton. 12 Colin and Jane Thomas. 13 Roanna Hay, Colin Hay and Carol Hobbs. 14 Rebecca McNaught, Sarah Hick, Hannah Brookes-Hughes, Irene Buckley and David Houghton.

DECEMBER 2012

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When things go wrong Part 2

‘‘

“BOTH CLUB AND PLAYER PLAY THEIR CARDS CLOSE TO THEIR CHEST AND IT CAN TURN INTO A FOOTBALL GAME OF POKER”

Shane Duff, former Captain of Cheltenham Town Football Club, concludes his report from last month…

In last month’s issue I touched on a couple of issues associated with a football club trying to force a player out of their club with the purpose of saving money. One subject in football that is under a bit of a cloud is the ‘Contract Termination’. Football fans see that a player’s contract has been cancelled but what does this mean? Has the player just left the club?

Often the club and player come to a financial agreement where the player is given some money upfront and asked to leave which saves the club money in the long term. The best way for me to explain this is to give an example of figures: Let us say that the player earns £1000 per week and they have 6 months left of their contract to run; £26,000 in total.

This player is not wanted and therefore going to cost the club a lot of money.

I have done my research and found out some rough figures for the breakdown of this salary over six months.

Monthly wage: £4,333 x 6 months = £26,000.

Tax:£895 x 6 months = £5,370.

N.I: £360 x 6 months = £2,160.

Net income: £3,080 x 6 months = £18,480.

The difference between the net income and salary is £7,520.

A club is allowed to make a tax free payment to a player of up to £30,000. By looking at the figures, if the player is left on the books for the next six months it will cost them £26,000 (plus employers tax), which is a waste. The club can look to save some money by offering the player a Tax Free sum of money to cancel their contract. If they paid the player the whole amount they would be due to receive (net salary) (£18,480)

DECEMBER 2012

they will save £7,520 over 6 months.

This money can be used potentially for a new player.

Different situations can then determine what is negotiated. If the player is wanted by another club, the present club may offer a lesser sum as they know the player will be able to collect a new wage immediately and not lose out financially. The club would then hope the player will want to leave and result in saving them even more money.

If the player doesn’t have a new club lined up, they may refuse the ‘contract termination’ offer and sit tight in the hope the situation changes. The club may increase the offer but it is always interesting to see different angles on the case study in hand. Both club and player play their cards close to their chest and it can turn into a football game of poker.

The club can argue “this is our final offer, we won’t be offering anymore. If you choose to decline it, we will make your time here as hard as possible”. The player can be stubborn knowing the club is desperate to get rid, claiming that they haven’t got another club to go to and that they need to stay fit in order to find another club”.

These are scenarios that arise within the football industry are common as every club at different times will try to save money here and there to keep the club from losing money.

As you can imagine the example I gave was of a salary of £52,000 and the figures from high end football can be a lot higher, and the sums of money saved can be huge if more than one player has their contract cancelled. CS Why not contact me with your views @duffo16

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Cotswold Hunt Team Chase

The Hon. Mrs Mark Vestey kindly hosted a luncheon for sponsors and guests at the annual Cotswold Hunt Team Chase, generously sponsored by A&E Fire Equipment, at Foxcote Manor in Andoversford. The event is a highlight of the Cotswolds social calendar and was attended by hundreds of people throughout the county and beyond.

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Photography by Marcus Green

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SURVIVAL GUIDE

fitness

Festive Season Fitness

“It’s that time of year where we want to look and feel great in our Christmas party frocks but do you feel like you have no chance to fit exercise into your jam-packed days? Along with deciding on the perfect Christmas tree, buying and wrapping the presents and deciding what to rustle up for Christmas day dinner, here are some survival tips to keep you looking and feeling great over the festive season!”

Do your workouts in the morning.

Just get up fifteen minutes earlier for a quick home workout. Do some crunches, press ups and lunges. Then add a 15 minute power walk into your day.

Christmas shopping. Doing your Christmas shopping will keep you active. Walking briskly can burn up to 150 calories an hour, and carrying bags will help tone arms, chest and shoulders.

Honestly!

Up the intensity of your gym sessions. Don’t give up your sessions, just condense your workouts and work at a higher intensity than usual.

Clean the house! Making sure your home is clean and sparkly and ready for visitors can be a fantastic fitness session too. Work off over 120 calories an hour whilst dusting, vacuuming and putting up the Christmas decorations.

Get the family involved. If you are spending Christmas with the family, wrap up warm and head for the hills.

Go for a lovely walk. We live in a gorgeous county, let’s explore it!

Dancing. Get shimmying on the dance floor, 30 minutes of dancing can burn over 200 calories and will make you feel great. CS

Well done guys! Team Hart Fitness ran the Mud Runner course and survived! The team included: Jodie, Pierre Molyneux, Cathie Uff, Chris Warren, Chris Lamb and James Gibbs.

DECEMBER 2012

Start 2013 with Jodie’s 10 week Bootcamp!

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Sign up now by calling Jodie on 07787 561 303 or email jodie@hartfitness.co.uk

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It’s all in the meeting

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DECEMBER 2012

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racing style

“If you love racing and you love jump racing as I do, it’s the best place in the world” Andy Clifton

Cheltenham’s season is now in full swing; later this month is the fabulous two day international meeting which features The StanJames.com International Hurdle and the Paul Stewart 2013 IronSpine Charity Challenge Gold Cup. The horses that play an active part in proceedings there, will return in March for a shot at Festival glory

Q. How did you get into racing?

My interest in racing really came about through the Grand National. I’m of the Red Rum generation and my Dad always used to let us have a bet on the Grand National. Every year I always used to back Red Rum. My earliest racing memory was being on holiday in Saundersfoot in Wales, we would have a family sweepstake on the Grand National. I had been looking at the papers and was convinced I knew what was going to win. When it came to the draw, I didn’t get that horse so I ran into my room crying and refused to come out until they gave me that horse and of course it lost!

Q. First Festival attended?

The first Festival I attended was 1987, the year The Thinker won. I was a student; I saved up all year to have a bet in every race. There were only 18 races then and I could have ten pounds on every race. I had one winner, Galmoy at 9/4 in what was the Stayers Hurdle (now the World Hurdle).

Q. Best part of your Job? There are lots of good bits, but the best part is: being in the Winners Enclosure DECEMBER 2012

PHOTO: ROB WHEATMAN

I caught up with Andy Clifton, Communications Manager at Cheltenham since January 2007.

for most races at the Festival when the Champions come in and hearing the roars for Kauto Star and Denman and some of those horses. If you love racing and you love jump racing as I do, it’s the best place in the world.

Q. I get goosebumps just walking through the gates at Prestbury Park, Does that feeling ever go away when you’re here every day?

Like every job it has its ups and downs but if ever I am having a bad day, I come out the front of the Grandstand, look at the view and think where else would I rather be.

Q. When you’re walking around the Racecourse on a Festival day, do you feel incredibly proud that you’re playing a major part behind the scenes of one of the greatest shows on earth?

It’s a privilege to be involved in helping putting the Festival together but it’s not about us.

Our job is to prepare the stage for the real performers to do their bit. People come here because of the horses, because of the history and because of the atmosphere. It’s all about the horses, owners and trainers. That’s what makes this place special.

Q. Can you give us a horse that you think will run well at the Festival?

Bo’s Worth, strictly on the form book you would have thought he would struggle to win the RSA here last season, but he loves this place, he loves the hill. That’s two Festivals in a row he has won at. If a horse has run well at the Festival before, that’s a huge positive. CS Visit www.cheltenham.co.uk for more information.

Cathryn Fry Twitter @cathrynfry

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this month with Kate Justice

The most wonderful time of the year...

Kate Justice shares her tips for keeping the kids entertained this month

If you would like to share your thoughts on this subject with Kate Justice, please email the Editor at editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

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I took the kids to the races for the first time last month. I love going to Cheltenham but have always thought of it as a bit of an adult’s domain.

Now, having gone to The Open en famille I have to change my opinion. I know it is illegal to bet if you’re under 18, but £2 each way on the horse with Will’s favourite colours gave him (aged 9) something to cheer for. Amazingly it won, so we started the afternoon IN PROFIT. This in turn, gave both children an enormous sense of triumph, achievement and well-being… (and now we’re starting to see why juniors are not allowed to gamble).

Admittedly it was ‘Family Day’ at Prestbury Park – meaning loads of extra attractions for the kids - and the sun was shining, but I’m not sure if we could have more fun at a theme park.

The little darlings love shopping… and conveniently located right opposite the delicious Dubarry stand (which is actually more like a luxury living room on location) was a toy shop. I gleefully tried on several fabulous coats and perhaps too many gorgeous boots while the children flew remote control helicopters around the tented village, sat on whoopee cushions and rummaged through tables of toys.

Libbi (aged 7) then spent an earnest half an hour trying to talk me into buying her a fur coat – the chap on the stand had let her try on all the minks with matching scarves and headbands.

This was all before we had actually arrived at the ‘children’s tent’. Out the back was a glorious petting zoo courtesy of Adam Henson’s Cotswold Farm Park (we missed the 3.20 due to too many bunnies to hold). There were baby chicks galore and the most

amenable collection of rabbits… while back inside there was a beautifully set up and staffed soft play area, magic show, balloon sculpter, face painter, huge craft zone and GAMES. (I have just asked Will and Libbi to go through a list of what they can remember).

Next to all this was a bar GENIOUS. Back outside to stand by the world famous paddocks, watching world famous horses and jockeys right up close… and the kids even said they’d rather wait and watch for a bit than have a go on the teacup ride usefully placed within 20 paces. It’s worth mentioning at this point that everything for the children was free. NO fee to get in for under 18s, chicks and bunnies to love, teacups til you’re sick and as far as I could tell, for everything on offer in the family zone… no charge. How UNUSUAL and – especially this close to Christmas – how fabulous. Put it in the diary for next year.

Next on the list for my clearly spoilt offspring, is the Pantomime at The Everyman Theatre. (Is it any wonder we barely ever leave the county?). They always, ALWAYS manage such a swooping, dashing, fantastical display of fun and warmth and Christmas is not Christmas without it. The energy that goes into it (and comes right out at you when watching it) is almost addictive and we are constantly thrilled by the sets and costumes. This year it’s Dick Whittington, so the opportunity for local gags is endless.

Wow, I’m feeling Christmassy… but enough frivolity. Pantomimes and Eggnog aside, there is shopping to done and turkeys to be slain. I will try to find the right balance of these four things… and I hope you do too. CS DECEMBER 2012

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