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THE FESTIVAL™ 15th-18th March 2016
THE COTSWOLDS PREMIER LUXURY LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
•
FEBRUARY 2016
INTERVIEWS FASHION EVENTS INTERIORS PROPERTY BUSINESS TRAVEL SPORT
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THE LARGEST RANGE OF
www.ostileshop.uk www.originalstyle.com
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TILES IN THE SOUTH WEST
Haven Works Tewkesbury Road Cheltenham GL51 9AA TE
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THE RANGE
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Tel: 01242 370602 Email: cheltenham@originalstyle.com
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000 Contents Feb 2016:Layout 1
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52 90
88 86
64 FEBRUARY 2016
IN THIS ISSUE... 12 21
Interview with
32 36 39 40 49 50 52 56 64 68
Interiors Style
Golden Globe winner Leonardo DiCaprio,
72
Cheltenham’s Leading Hats
76 80 86 88 90 99 102 106 107 110
The Valentine’s Closet
114
The Professional Organiser
Two glamorous ladies showcase their styles for The Festival
Hot Property We feature some of the most beautiful properties that are for sale or to let in and around the Cotswolds
Looking at natural structure
Renovating on a Shoe String Budget We visit The Blacksmith’s Shop in Gretton
Getting Into A Romantic Mood The Cotswold Gent has decided to try hard
Creative Homes & Gardens Showcasing a collection of local companies
Cotswoldia Reeling around the Cotswolds
Cotswold Culture The history of the festival of St. Valentine’s
Love In The Maldives The most romantic place on the planet
Exploring The Diamond Capital Mrs & Mr Jones have been to Antwerp
Mind, Body & Soul Giving yourself some ‘me time’
Beauty Heaven The best tips from the Make-up Artist to the stars
Beautiful underwear for a romantic 14th February
Explain The Market Forming economic links with Africa
Meet The Head Bradley Salisbury of Dean Close School
COMPETITION Win one of five £100 vouchers at DWELL
Focus on Marketing We meet Kat Shayler from SharpFox
Time To R&R Locally No. 131 is reviewed
COMPETITION Win £300 worth of Raging Bull clothing
The Great Pen of Sport We pay tribute to journalist Alan Lee
Cheltenham’s Champ We meet National Hunt legend, John Francome
Out and About Your guide to the very best events happening in and around The Cotswolds this month
Kate Justice teaches you how to throw it all out
SOCIAL SCENE: 18 Blushes 54 Cotswold Face & Body Clinic with Castle Fine Art COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 5
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Bence Group Feb 16:Layout 1
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VOTED BEST National Showroom of the Year 2015
41- 47 Fairview Rd, Cheltenham, GL52 2EJ
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01451 414234 9:00am - 5:00pm Monday - Friday 9.00am - 4:00pm Saturdays
www.obsidian-interiors.co.uk
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Style Editor’s Letter
Partner Mark Cuzner 07983 179225 mark@stylemagazines.co.uk Sales Executive Bethany Lynch 07807 126214 bethany.lynch@stylemagazines.co.uk Office Manager Carley Jones 01242 220239 office@stylemagazines.co.uk Production Consultant Hilary Collier 01242 220239 hilary@stylemagazines.co.uk Editorial Designer Nick Clark 01242 220239 nclark@stylemagazines.co.uk
COTSWOLD STYLE Cotswold Style: Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1TA Switchboard: 01242 220239 Accounts: 01384 410603 Email: office@stylemagazines.co.uk Publisher: Ray Siviter
www.cotswoldstyle.co.uk
@CotswoldStyle Twitter followers
22,278 CotswoldStyleMagazine Facebook fans
Welcome
It’s the rather drab month of February where apart from the hopeful interlude of a day of passionate gestures from a loved one or admirer, not a lot happens. This month’s Cotswold Style will though ignite some excitement in your life and we can whet your appetite by showcasing some stunning hats that will be ideal to wear during next month’s Racing Festival at Cheltenham. We meet with an exciting new milliner of the course, Alice Linley who is creating bespoke designs suitable for any race meeting and Fiona Johnson, married to top National Hunt jockey Richard, who has recently started her own hat hire company to ensure you have the perfect headwear for your ensemble, whatever the weather may bring at The Festival. Continuing with racing this month, Nigel Aplin has been speaking with one of the most prominent jockeys of all time, John Francome who is the star role in Cheltenham Racecourse’s new advertising campaign and he also pays tribute to Alan Lee, who sadly, died recently. Alan was one of the UK’s most highly regarded cricket and racing journalists who lived in Cheltenham and we will deeply miss his writing and incredible knowledge of the two sports. Also in this month’s edition, I can introduce you to our new Interiors Editor, Caroline Berry who brings with her a wealth of experience with her knowledge of all things bright and beautiful for the home. Cotswoldian, Max Mitchell tells us how he has renovated a former blacksmith’s shop on a shoestring budget into a beautiful residential dwelling and we feature plenty more inspirational ideas from the world of interiors and design. Finally it’s back to the one thing we all do really need – LOVE! A number of our feature writers have been telling their hilarious tales of trying to find it, how to reluctantly woo their better halves or if one is hoping to impress the love of your life, Fashion Editor Yvette Brentnall has picked out some sensual pieces of underwear, perfect for any lady.
5,324 Emma Logan, Editor editor@stylemagazines.co.uk
Cotswold Style is published monthly by Live 24Seven Ltd, based at Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Cheltenham, Glos, 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.
CS
This month’s cover is sponsored by Cheltenham Racecourse. Alice Linley and Fiona Johnson will inspire you with beautiful headwear for The Festival on pages 72 & 73. We meet with National Hunt legend John Francome on page 107, who is the new face of The Festival’s advertising campaign, in a spoof advert - ‘The Man On The Hill’. Cover Photograph by Stef Calleja-Gera www.scg-photography.com
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U U U
FREE HOME CONSULTATION
CALL 01242 52 40 53 www.hometutordoctor.co.uk
10 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
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Style Interview
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Style Interview
READ THE FULL INTERVIEW IN THE FEBRUARY ISSUE OF YOUR COTSWOLD STYLE MAGAZINE
COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 17
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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk
Blushes Annual Awards The Annual awards for Blushes was held at The Daffodil. It is always a glamorous affair and the ‘event of the year’ for the Blushes team, with over 100 staff attending. It is a chance for everyone to celebrate their peers’ success and recognise their colleagues achievements throughout the year. The celebration went on until the early hours of the morning! Photography by Sam Oldfield Photography
18 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
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Style Event
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Hair by Simon Izzard for
blushes速
Your No.1 salon Cheltenham 01242 226644 Gloucester 01452 528342 Cirencester 01285 656091
blusheshair www.blushes.co.uk
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PROPERTY
Knight Frank February 2016:Layout 1
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Beyond yyour Beyond our expectations expectations www.hamptons.co.uk w ww.hamptons.co.uk
Awre, A wre, Ne Newnham, wnham, Gloucestershire Gloucestershire An h An historic istoric a and nd ssubstantial ubstantial Gr Grade ade IIII llisted isted h house ouse with with w wonderful onderful vviews iews over over the the River River Severn. The property dates back S evern. T he p roperty d ates b ack tto o tthe he JJacobean acobean era era with with significant significant and and substantial substantial Georgian additions. Flexible accommodation, G eorgian ad ditions. F lexible accommodation accommodation plus plus ancilliary anccilliar y ac commodation, iindoor ndoor pool and paddock. all 4.25 p ool ccomplex, omplex, sstable table a nd p addock. IIn na ll approximately approximately 4 .25 acres. acres.
Guide G uide Price Price ÂŁ985,000 ÂŁ985,000 t t t t t t
Hamptons Cheltenham Hamptons Cheltenham Sales 01242 639414 Lettings. S ales 0 1242 6 39414 | L ettings. 01242 01242 639416 639416 24 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
Ma Main ain House House - 5 bedrooms bedrooms Coach C oach House House - 3 bedrooms bedrooms IIndoor ndoor pool pool complex complex Stable/workshop St able/workshop 1.25 1 .25 a acre cre fformal ormal gardens gardens 3a acre cre paddock paddock
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Montpellier, M ontpellier, C Cheltenham heltenham Rarely av Rarely available, ailable, a classic classic Regency Regency town town h house ouse rretaining etaining it’s it ’s period period features features and and offering offering off eelegant accommodation. Situated one off C Cheltenham’s most desirable 5 ffloors loors o legant ac commodation. S ituated iin no ne o heltenham’s m ost d esirable rroads oads directly Montpellier d irectly opposite opposite M ontpellier Gardens, Gardens, the the house house has has a courtyard courtyard garden garden and and permit permit parking. p arking.
Guide G uide Price: Price: £1,100,000 £1,100,000 t t t t t t
5/6 5 /6 bedrooms bedrooms 4b bath/shower ath/shower rooms rooms 4 rreception eception ro rooms oms Kitchen K itchen Permit P ermit i pa parking rking Courtyard C ourt yard garden garden
COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 25
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Style Hot Property
Charlton Kings, Cheltenham
Setting the scene: An exquisite newly built home of over 6000 sq ft set in landscaped gardens of around ¾ acre and offering the perfect blend of contemporary design and traditional materials Why we love it: No. 1 The Lawn is the first of just two detached, bespoke, architect designed newly built homes. Set in a very generous plot and on an impressive tree lined street scene, the house has been built to exacting standards providing the ultimate in luxury living. Externally, stone, slate and glass combine to provide extremely attractive elevations under a conventional pitched slate roof, thus creating a home with a feeling of great light and space without compromising the look and traditional feel from the outside. Inside the quality of materials and workmanship is immediately evident, where the large double height reception hall provides a fitting entrance and access to the ground floor living space and accommodates the stunning bespoke staircase rising to the first floor. To the southern end of the house there is a beautiful kitchen/breakfast/ family room, a fabulous space to entertain or congregate as a family.There are multiple sliding picture glass doors giving access onto the large south facing stone terrace with covered eating area and water feature. State of the art technology is present throughout; this is particularly evident in the luxurious cinema room with sound and picture to rival a trip to the cinema and a ‘Sonos’ system piping sound throughout the entire house (controlled via any one of 3 Apple iPads included in the sale). Towards the northern end of the house there is more formal reception space with a smart dining room and spectacular 26 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
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Style Hot Property
drawing room with a modern Stovax log burning stove as a focal point. A ground floor guest suite provides a thoughtful design addition to the house, particularly for anyone who may struggle with stairs. The fitted utility room has a laundry shoot from the upstairs laundry/ironing room. A covered external walkway leads to the home gym (which could easily be adapted to become an annex/secondary accommodation) with shower room and fully glazed doors opening onto the rear terrace. Upstairs the outstanding galleried landing continues the theme of light and space with double doors opening to the magnificent master dressing room and wrap around balcony. Three further very individual bedroom suites add to the character of this wonderful home. A study and ironing/laundry room complete the accommodation on the first floor. Outside The house is set well back from the road behind a beautiful oak tree and is accessed via a gravelled drive with video entry, electrically operated gates. The drive leads to a triple bay garage with independent motorised doors. To the rear of the house the beautiful garden has been expertly designed and landscaped by a Chelsea Award winner. The previously mentioned private terrace has steps up to the Lawns surrounded by well-planned planted beds. There are open views from the rear of the house and garden towards both Timbercombe and Leckhampton Hills. Guide price ÂŁ2,500,000; nick.chivers@knightfrank.com Knight Frank, 123 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 27
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Style Hot Property
Charlton Kings, Cheltenham Setting the scene: Barrington Place is a thoughtfully designed gated development of just four individually designed new homes in a private landscaped setting. The houses are nearing completion and offer the ultimate in modern living with contemporary styling and luxury specification. Why we love it: Along with superb design and clever use of space, these houses have features that will enhance your lifestyle including underfloor heating throughout, double garages and ready landscaped gardens. Prices start from: ÂŁ850,000 Freehold Details: Hamptons, Cheltenham. Tel: 01242 639414 cheltenham@hamptons-int.com 28 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
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THE BEST WAY TO PREDICT THE FUTURE IS TO CREATE IT.
The new BMW 7 Series
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After nearly a decade of development, the new BMW 7 Series ushers in entirely new levels of engineering and technology. From its revolutionary multifunction Display Key, which illustrates vital information about the car and can possess the impressive power of Remote Control Parking*, to BMW Gesture Control BOE 5PVDI $PNNBOE QSPWJEJOH DPOUSPM BU ZPVS ‍׊‏OHFSUJQT XIFUIFS ZPV BSF ESJWJOH PS CFJOH ESJWFO Such pioneering innovations are set to shape BMW cars to come. To experience the most innovative car in its class, please contact your local BMW Centre to arrange an exclusive test drive†at www.bmw.co.uk/midlands
0G‍׊‏DJBM GVFM FDPOPNZ ‍׊‏HVSFT GPS UIF OFX #.8 4FSJFT SBOHF 6SCBO NQH M LN &YUSB 6SCBO NQH M LN $PNCJOFE NQH M LN $0 FNJTTJPOT H LN Figures may vary depending on driving style and conditions. *Available with Advanced Parking Package. †Test drive subject to applicant status and availability.
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Bold Predictions Clive Burling looks ahead to a brighter and much more colourful 2016.... n the April edition last year I asked the question; where has all the colour gone? Why, I asked myself, do we go to such lengths to brighten up our gardens in any way we can but do just the opposite inside our homes? Surely there must be an explanation. Why are we afraid to use bold colours? What is it that makes us want to ‘play safe’ and keep everything low key? It can’t just be ‘fashion’. I went on to try and explain, with various references from David Batchelor’s book ‘Chromophobia’, the deep philosophical reasons why our ‘fear of colour’ meant that our interior world is dominated mostly by beige and grey. This made me even more determined to introduce as much colour into my commissions as possible. Looking back, however, I was less than successful. Clients still demanded grey or beige. I did find some satisfaction by painting the insides of any cupboards and drawers with the brightest reds, blues and greens I could find but it wasn’t really the answer! I have reason to be more optimistic that things will change this year. The predictions of some of our top designers for 2016 appear to agree that it’s about time we had more colour. It seems we are about to re-visit the 1970’s! According to fashion designer Henry Holland, exotic jungle prints, psychedelic colours and louche seventies style will be how we decorate our homes this year. He says we should, “Expect bold and brash colour clashes, vibrant patterns and a lot of mixed materials as fashion makes its mark on interiors. “Botanicals will continue to be a strong seasonal look but translated into psychedelic colours and clashing palettes for statement effect in place of a more natural, organic vibe.” Stylist Nadia McCowan Hill says, “Bringing a warm, global vibe to spring/summer 2016, this vibrant look is
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all about bohemian colour and pattern. Think bold floral cushions and rugs, painted furniture and tribal prints thrown in for good measure.” Philippa Prinsloo, design manager for John Lewis Home, says Brazilian themes will be big. “Brazilian brings out vibrant greens that celebrates the more exotic flora and fauna of jungle and the Forest,” she said. “The bright colours help to accessorise a space and do so with a bit of wild abandon. “A saturated colour palette dominates with oranges, purples and greens mixing
with materials such as bamboo and wood to create interesting outdoor furniture ranges and accessories.” My favourite prediction comes from Daniel Hopwood, president of the British Institute of Interior Design. He says, “The recent up-cycling craze, is about to become more sophisticated. “This year is about taking the shop bought product and customising it to add character and personality or finding the craftsmen or artist to create the bespoke.” I particularly like that bit! “Handmade products, furnishings and art are going to monopolise this year’s interior showstopping pieces. “To keep the edge aim for contrasts. Use honest raw materials, such as concrete and weathered wood, against bright vivid, futuristic colours and furniture design. In 2016 it’s about looking ahead to a warm and honest but energetic future.” I can’t wait! clive.burling@gmail.com Tel: 07788257914
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STYLE Compiled and written by Caroline Berry
February is always the month where we have bright sun, no leaves and natural structure is revealed at it’s most beautiful. This is good discipline to apply to design at home - to really concentrate on the basics and the rest will fall into place. Light is essential - time to chuck anything that isn’t working hard for it’s money - and texture will keep things warm.
Caroline Berry is a well established Interior Designer. Her portfolio includes country houses, town houses, contemporary and listed buildings. She studied Fine Art at Goldsmiths and still paints and makes sculpture. Email: caroline@carolineberry.co.uk
32 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
PHOTO: ANDREA CHU
INTERIORS
Delicacy and structure: Bennison fabrics Chrysanthemum from caroline@carolineberry.co.uk
Antique Bench covered in Stripe from Bennison fabrics. Contact caroline@carolineberry.co.uk
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Handles from in fossilised wood, from £48, Chloe Alberry, info@chloealberry.com
Gooseberry small light from Hand and Eye Studio, £252, info@handandeyestudio.co.uk
Add some texture, Moroccan Berber Rug from £499 from www.citycows.co.uk (10% DISCOUNT QUOTE COTSWOLD STYLE)
Strind coffee table in white, nickel plated, £100, www. ikea.com
Wooden Trophy Stag Head, £245, info@pottingsheduk.com
Keep an eye on IKEA – Sinnerlig Seagrass Rug 3m x 2m by the very well respected designer Ilse Carwford for IKEA, www. ikea.com
Finally, not forgetting colour and scent! A large vase of hyacinths to lift the spirits.
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Inspira onal ideas If you are considering any home improvements or an extension, conservatory or an orangery please call us. With over 30 years experience designing and constructing we can take away the stress and handle your project from conception through to completion. We also offer a full range of Bi-Fold doors composite doors and windows in either aluminium pvc or timber. You may be thinking about a kitchen or a bathroom again we can supply this for you. All our products carry a ten year insurance backed guarantee and Fensa with regard to window installations. From the spring you will be able to visit
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for your home and garden us at Evesham Country Park and see our range of products, currently we have the rotating garden pods on display. With over 30 years experience designing and building conservatories, orangeries and lanterned roof extensions, supplying and fitting bi-fold doors, composite doors and windows, we have the products to meet your desires. We will design and build you your dream extension right through to completion. So if you are thinking about something special for your garden come and see our exciting range of products.
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The Blacksmith’s Shop Renovating a house on a shoestring budget – Max Mitchell shares how he did it erving good food is one thing but designing a house is a whole different ballgame. Ask what I was thinking as a restaurant manager in his mid 20’s looking to build his first ever house and I’d say I was fed up of lining my landlord’s pockets with hardearned cash or if I was being honest I just wanted the chance to appear on Grand Designs! Climbing the property ladder is a challenge in itself in today’s world. Even with a well-appreciated leg up in Cheltenham, you won’t get much bang for your buck. If I wanted to be in walking distance from my favourite bars, I was going to be made to pay for it. It would be no less than my bar tab and certainly more than my budget would allow. The solution - leave town. I found inspiration a few miles away in the idyllic Cotswold village of Gretton
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and in particular, my Grandmother’s backyard. Looking upon a dilapidated red brick barn the former blacksmith’s shop, which was held up by little more than vegetation, it suddenly dawned on me why the likes of DIY SOS and Grand Designs became such highly-rated programmes. With the secret hope of featuring on the latter installed in my mind, I was in love, not with the crumbling bricks that lay (loosely) before me but with the vision of what it could be. I had bitten off more than I could chew as someone with no experience in such matters. But ever in doubt, the first port of call - get in a trusty architect. I was lucky, a good friend of mine just so happened to be one and if you can’t trust a friend, who can you trust! Francis Philips Architects shared my vision from day one and if they thought I was mad they did well to hide it behind the plans. Their designs captured an exciting blend of old and new, whilst celebrating the surrounding charm. As this dream was becoming more of a reality, I acquired three valuations on the existing land and using the average to agree a fair price. The contract was signed - no turning
back now! Onto the next battle planning permission… Francis Philips was a huge help in getting the project through, without them I would have fallen at the first hurdle. Luckily for us, the planning authorities hate to see old buildings fall down. As this one was pretty close, they were more obliged to grant permission to build a three bedroom house with a two story extension attached. With another hurdle jumped, the next lay straight ahead funding. Simon Marsh, a mortgage broker for Private Finance Ltd helped to secure a loan by summer 2014, with good rates based on the current value of the property. Construction took just over a year to complete, turning a building site into something beautiful, with unique features throughout. I soon learned when building a house how easy it is to go over budget buying materials, you suddenly become more accustomed to being resourceful. Keeping the original brickwork and recycling the roof tiles were one thing but what I’m most proud of is the stairs. Using a great local carpenter, we went to Ikea and sourced solid oak worktops, which he used to construct a staircase - a cost effective method of building one of the most eye-catching centrepieces in the house. The majority of materials I found online, others like the bathroom tiles came from reputable local supplier, Mandarin Stone based in Cheltenham. However, on occasion, for the best deals
I had to look further afield - across the water in fact. The oak flooring came from Sweden and the log burner was bought from Denmark. During construction, I was always up for mucking in and getting my hands dirty where my limited skill and expertise would allow! When it came to the garden, I decided against using landscape gardeners, a brave move some might say but with the help of a few mates one weekend, we had the decking laid and the turf put down. Within days I had a garden to go with my house. I had made it over the threshold as homeowner with a house I had helped to build. Would I do it again? Definitely! I’ve learnt so much, overcome a number of challenges - finding trusted trade associates for one and rooting around for the best deals being another. But when you look back on what you’ve achieved, a beautiful building that celebrates the style of the old, with the practicality of the new, you sit back and think, ‘mate have a beer, you’ve earned it’. The Blacksmith’s Shop is now on the market with Savills for £475,000 and available for viewings by appointment. Architects; Francis Philips Architects www.francisphilips.co.uk
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The Cotswold Gent Is he getting into a romantic mood? fter Christmas, one had hoped for a little respite from the commercial forces driving us to become our own individual minieconomic booms. Alas how mistaken I am, for it is a universal truth that in fact, contrary to popular belief, our world is not run by despotic dictators and pseudodemocratic governments but in reality it is run by greeting cards companies. Our annual agenda has been surreptitiously subverted by organisations whose sole purpose is to engineer an excuse to persuade us to part with our hard earned cash in exchange for the opportunity to participate in the celebration of a particular ‘day’ by marking it with acquisition of gift and card for whichever is the fortunate nominated beneficiary. Now some of you may recall remarks I made about Father’s Day - and its apparent invisibility to my children however, surely the daddy of all emotionally, fraught, feast days must be that of St Valentine. As I contemplated my thoughts I raised the topic with my nearest and dearest and invited them to comment on the subject. Rather alarmingly my daughters embarked upon a discussion about who the actual St Valentine was. “Who on earth cares!” I replied, for this was not to be a series of historical jottings about some ancient Lothario but more of a pithy piece punctuated by wry observations of a day filled with the portents of romance. I am a bit of an old cynic when it comes to Valentine’s Day. My wife, on the other hand pointed out to me that she was finding my curmudgeonly attitude to this romantic festival to be increasingly tiresome. Alarmed, I thought it best to set about explaining to her my reasons for my accumulated glumness on the subject. “It all began,” I started… “When I was a young blade many years ago.” Disregarding the swell of groans of boredom from my children, I embarked upon a description of the soul-scarring process of collecting ones post from the hall table in my boarding house on the
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fourteenth of February each year, for five years. Never was there a more public exposition of ones popularity with the fairer sex, than the numbers of cards (or lack thereof in my case) attached to ones name on this particular day. As a real amateur at negotiating this tricky moment by comparison to my room mate, it never occurred to me that a number of my housemates may have actually sent themselves cards with the envelopes marked in cryptically unfamiliar hand writing in order to create the whiff of stud-ly-ness about them. The cunning strategy that one might navigate this popularity contest by stacking the deck was a closely guarded secretm which was only revealed to me much later in life! It is fair to say however that upon learning this, my cynicism about the greeting card industry became somewhat entrenched; a cynicism, which extended in later life to random Romany rose sellers in restaurants and other manifestations of the commercial exploitation of our romantic souls. “Why?” I postulated, “Should I require the services of a dodgy greeting card company disseminating the musings of an otherwise obscure religious fanatic to prompt me into a romantic frame of mind? Furthermore, does it not seem somewhat ungenerous to the fairer sex for this requirement to fall but once a year? Surely I should be free to purchase
roses for my beloved on any day I choose?” (And not at the ludicrous prices on the fourteenth of February - I didn’t say this out loud of course.) “Indeed,” remarked my beautiful and wise better half - in (its fair to say), a rather firm tone of voice. “However it seems to me that in your efforts to avoid being consumed by the commerciality of the day, some of us may eventually feel a tad neglected!” With my card firmly marked, I resolved to review my attitude to this romantic festival and to consider the possibility that I got this completely and utterly wrong. After close consideration of the facts (expensive roses, crappy cards) and factoring the need to always listen carefully to my better half (life preserving and enhancing), I find myself excited by the possibility of planning a romantic interlude marking this most ancient (ahem) of feasts. It is certainly capturing my imagination more than the prospect of toasting a miserable Scottish haggis on Burns night whilst trying to interpret the ramblings of the Scot whose feats are also given an annual remembrance. So before we hit the heady heights of Easter in March resplendent with bunnies and chocolate eggs (yes I don’t understand the significance of those items either) and in the spirit of true romance, this year I have decided to jump in and join the festivities. Bring on the feast of St Valentine I say - but hold the cheesy cards and pricey blooms.
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THE CREATIVE HOME & GARDEN COLLECTION Showcasing local companies offering the best in interiors, kitchen and bathroom design, products for the home and garden services
Cotswold Kitchen & Bathrooms
We understand that when choosing a new kitchen or bathroom different styles and individual tastes reflect the way we live. Our showroom displays the latest in design and trends for contemporary and traditional styled kitchens & bathrooms. On display are a range of outstanding kitchens from Loch Anna, Quantum and Crown offering you an extensive choice to create an individual high quality kitchen tailored to your budget. Our bathrooms/en-suites range from the classical, elegant Old London, stunning modern baths by Waters Baths of Ashbourne, to the luxurious and innovative collection from Hudson Reed. We supply everything from a replacement tap right through to a complete design, supply & project managed installation of your dream kitchen or bathroom. We provide home visits to our customers where we discuss ideas for their dream kitchen and/or bathroom and provide a cad design as a free service for your approval.
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Take advantage of our 20% offer and visit our showroom to see the quality of finish and installation provided by our experienced team of trades & fitters. Sunnybank Stables, London Road, Charlton Kings, GL54 4HG Tel: 01242 210090
Greensleeves
There is a great deal of satisfaction to be had from looking out onto a well-kept lawn free of weeds and moss, however achieving the dream can be tricky and time consuming. That’s why many people choose to turn to Greensleeves Gloucestershire to help provide the perfect lawn. Greensleeves analyse and treat their customers’ lawns at least 5 times a year to ensure they are in excellent condition. The treatments are safe to children, pets and plants and often work out cheaper than doing it yourself! In addition to their annual treatment
programme Greensleeves can also provide more intensive services; they are specialists at carrying out Scarification, Over Seeding, Hollow Tine Aeration and Spiking. They can also complete a full Lawn Renovation programme if required. As the only UK lawn company to carry the Which? Trust Trader approval you can be sure Greensleeves will perform. For a FREE lawn analysis and no obligation quotation call: 01242 674741.
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Style Homes & Gardens
Original Style
Original Style opened its showroom in Tewkesbury Road, Cheltenham in September last year. Established in 1986, Original Style is one of the UK’s leading tile manufacturers and distributors. Specialising in authentic Victorian style floor tiles, the company also has a comprehensive portfolio of superior quality wall and floor tiles in ceramic, porcelain, natural stone, glass and mosaics for both residential and commercial projects. The showroom houses more than 100 displays showcasing a wide range of traditional and contemporary tiles to give you plenty of inspiration for your home or garden tiling project. Products include large format porcelain and glass tiles,
handmade ceramic wall tiles, Victorian style floor tiles, mosaics, natural stone and much more. Tiles are a great investment for both walls and floors and whilst classic design will never fall out of favour, we at Original Style have seen new designs, colours and ideas emerge and have used it as inspiration to create what we feel are truly beautiful products.
Stoves and Fireplaces
At Stoves and Fireplaces of Cheltenham we are transforming homes throughout the Cotswolds as we add warmth, colour and texture with beautiful fireplaces and cosy wood burners. Our customers’ journey often begins in our Cheltenham Showroom where there is a wide range of both contemporary and traditional wood burning stoves, simple and elegant fireplaces and expert advice on hand. Providing a full project management service, we conduct free surveys across Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Oxfordshire. In addition, we provide an installation tailored to your home as well as carrying a wide selection of accessories. We have recommended suppliers for logs and we will keep your love for your fire with a follow-on service for maintenance and repairs. All work done by Stoves and Fireplaces of Cheltenham is undertaken by HETAS qualified and GAS SAFE engineers. Tel: 01242 241164 Showroom: 78 - 80 Winchcombe Street, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL52 2NW
Tewkesbury Cookshop
Tewkesbury Cookshop is a little gem; a real High Street shop to explore and discover those things you didn’t even realise you wanted. James and Helen Townsend took over the shop in late 2014 and have greatly increased the selection of cookware, whilst keeping a homely atmosphere and their great customer service. They are planning to improve the shop interior this spring, which will be exciting. The High Street has had some difficult times but real shops like this can offer something
customers just can’t get online - the opportunity to see, hold, feel, weigh and consider their purchases. It’s also a lot easier to return products! They have recently started selling fine loose-leaf teas such as Darjeeling, Assam, Pekoe and Green, Black and White China teas. There are also delicious flavoured teas like Blue Lady, a black tea flavoured with grapefruit and pomegranate; a great alternative to Earl Grey. Of course, they also sell fantastic teapots to brew them! info@tewkesburycookshop.co.uk www.tewkesburycookshop.co.uk COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 41
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TEWKESBURY COOKSHOP Tewkesbury Cookshop is a little gem; a real High Street shop to explore and discover those things you didn't even realise you wanted.
For your everyday essentials...
and that something special too... 103 High Street, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire GL20 5JZ
t: 01684 296444 Explore the shop on Google Street View!
info@tewkesburycookshop.co.uk | www.tewkesburycookshop.co.uk
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RRP
20% OFF
08:50
NDS OFFER EBRUARY 29th FE
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Beautiful Oak Garden Rooms Hand Crafted in Worcestershire
T: 01905 828139 E: info@mitreoak.co.uk W: www.mitreoak.co.uk
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> Garden Rooms > Garages > Home Offices > Pool Rooms > Houses > Shelters & Gazebos
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Carpet Emporium is truly a family business run by Don D’Ambrosio along with his wife Mary and cousin John who have successfully built up a carpet business with a ‘difference’. We are not your normal carpet business with just lots of pattern books or samples to choose from, we actually probably stock more carpet rolls and large room sized remnants than other carpet business in Gloucestershire. When people think of a carpet remnant they think of a small piece suitable for a small bedroom, but the remnants we stock are big enough to carpet several rooms.
the difference is...
WHY CARPET REMNANTS? We also stock full rolls which will carpet a complete house. Many of these offer our customers a discount of up to 50% off normal retail prices. All remnants are perfect we do not sell factory seconds. We offer budget priced remnants to top quality 80% Wool Twist and 100% Wool Berbers, we also have many wool carpets that are now mothproof. If you cannot find what you are looking for in our extensive stock selection of over 250 rolls, we also have over 500 samples of carpets and rugs from all leading carpet manufactures in the UK and Europe. RUGS We also carry a huge range of rugs all from stock from bargain priced polypropylenes to 100% Wool Natural, plains and patterned. Many of the rugs stocked are discontinued lines which represent a big saving on normal prices. VINYLS Over 250 designs and styles of top quality vinyls available, from marble, wood, tile effect and many contemporary designs. DIVAN BEDS & MATTRESSES We have a large selection of different quality mattresses from budget priced open coil, to high quality 3000 pocket sprung, and also superb quality natural latex options. All beds and mattresses can be delivered direct from stock. WHY PURCHASE FROM CARPET EMPORIUM Carpet Emporium aim to make your carpet buying experience as easy as possible, we offer a measuring and planning service free of charge. We have experienced carpet fitters which we can fully recommend or we can deliver carpets direct to your premises for your own fitter to install. We have been providing flooring and rugs in the Cheltenham area for over 35 years.
Customer satisfaction is crucial to our business and we will always endeavour to bring our customer the best service and most competitive prices we possibly can.
01242 22 88 55
Give us a try before you buy we GUARANTEE value for money!
16-28 Bath Road, Cheltenham GL53 7HA Open 9am-5pm Tues, Weds, Fri & Sat LATE NIGHT OPENING THURSDAYS – 9am-6.30pm
carpetemporium@hotmail.com | www.carpetemporium.co.uk
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Through the Garden Gate This month our media horticulturalist, Camilla Bassett-Smith, visits a private garden to celebrate a bloom which has much to thank The Cotswolds for…. s I arrived at my destination, a yellow brick road of promise lay ahead of me. Only this was not brick but the sunshine yellow of winter aconite, seeded charmingly along the centre of the drive. To greet me, not a wizard but John Sales and his wife Lyn, who were certainly to offer a magical botanical experience during my two hour stay. John’s career in horticulture has seen him judging at RHS Chelsea & Hampton Court Palace Flower Shows and advising at some of Britain’s greatest gardens. But today, it’s his private garden that is under the spotlight, as I don my wellingtons and follow John on his snowdrop journey. This passion for the snowdrop has been burning in John’s horticultural heart for decades and he tells of glorious snowdrop lunches in the 1980s where like-minded snowdrop enthusiasts (known as galanthophiles) would share slides and stories. John insists however that he is not a collector, he just likes growing things and finding something new, such as Galanthus ‘Lyn’. This was stumbled across by his wife years ago
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when they moved to Perrott’s Brook and now, years later, blooms profusely in their garden. It is a hybrid of the ‘Atkinsii’ snowdrops - tall, strong and early with a good increasing habit – their name taken from Painswick based James Atkins who was responsible for their introduction in the 19th Century. John regularly finds new seedlings and names them after family members, take Galanthus ‘Compu.Ted’ after his IT genious grandson or ‘Daisy Sunshine’ in honour of his first granddaughter. With over 250 different varieties on display, this is a garden dappled with white and green – like the greenest of billiard tables scattered naturally with balls of gleaming white with the occasional yellow thrown in. Plenty to pot here – but this game is never-ending! There are two main areas of planting – firstly the ditch – remaining from the times of a medieval village. Perfect to display banks of Galanthus nivalis (our common snowdrop) and numerous others including ‘Lyn’ and ‘S.Arnott’ fragranced and a real favourite in the snowdrop world, having been increased and distributed by the Giant Snowdrop
Company in Chalford in the 1950s. A second area is known as ‘The Nuttery’ and carries around 100 different cultivars, grown in light shade amongst the coppiced hazels. Others are sprinkled around like hundreds and thousands across the acres of grounds. At time of writing nivalis and ‘Colossus’ are the only ones out in my garden – “little and large” as John quips!
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“This passion for the snowdrop has been burning in John’s horticultural heart for decades...” (‘Colossus’ was first found by Carolyn Elwes at Colesbourne Park in the 1980s, continuing the work of her family who introduced the elwesii species just over one hundred years earlier). Asked for a favourite snowdrop, ‘Daglingworth’ comes to John’s mind – named after the local area where it was found. Another local delicacy we pass is ‘Rodmarton’ with such a tidy tight double cup. Many doubles have been named after Shakespearean characters, quite apt to mention in this 400th anniversary year. ‘Ophelia’ is one that I have grown, bursting with theatricality and taking centre stage with flouncy, confident blooms. Of course there are those who will go
to extreme lengths to obtain the latest introduction, with a single bulb of Galanthus ‘Golden Fleece’ selling online a year ago for over £1300! So much for New Year sales! John loves old gardens as a means of finding interesting snowdrops – where they have been left alone un-disturbed for years. He designed the Winter Walk at Anglesey Abbey in Cambridge, now famed for its carpets of white. This may not have been the case however, had head gardener Richard Ayres not spotted abandoned snowdrops in a ditch, discarded by the first Lord Fairhaven. It was John who encouraged Richard to lift and plant differing forms in groups and the rest is horticultural history.
John likes his snowdrops naturalised and is not in favour of dotting around small patches which “look like measles”! He wants to see the whole picture in a garden and not just a blinkered view of one thing at a time. If you are growing snowdrops in some quantity, which are distinct at 10 paces then this suits John just fine. In fact it strikes me that The Cotswolds in general has made a huge contribution to the world of snowdrops. So many local people introducing and publicising these ‘fair maids of February’ as they were once known, with John Sales a dedicated player on this horticultural stage and worthy of our applause. COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 47
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Cotswoldia Angela Chancellor has been reeling around The Cotswolds am not fond of this time of year. It’s dark, wet and often windy to boot. January is always an anti-climax after Christmas and New Year celebrations but at least it’s over in a flash and the lucky ones amongst us might even be hanging on to bit of a holiday tan. February is not much of anything and despite being a few days short it drags on as the limp tail end of winter and I am pining for the glow and sparkle of my Christmas decorations. Still reminiscing about the winter season, I have a confession to make. I think I might be developing a bit of a fondness for Scottish Reeling. Maybe it is because I have hit a certain age (no I am not going to tell you how old I am) and am thinking why not try a few things my younger self might have rolled her eyes at? This, combined with an opportunity to spy on a teenage son’s first forays into mingling with the fairer sex, led to saying yes to my first invitation to what a dear friend of mine has referred to as ‘speed dating for toffs’. What a hoot! Why have I not done this before?? Reeling, not speed dating that is and anyway I had the teenager in mind on that front. I have to say I was extremely lucky that I happened to be sitting with the Cotswolds’ very own Reeling guru, the duracell bunny of Scottish dancing... may I present Mr. John ‘www.stripthewillow.com’ Carver. Now the thing about Reeling is that luckily you don’t waste much time and get on with filling your dance card fairly quickly at the beginning of the evening and I couldn’t have been better placed. So, as a novice I definitely scored a quadruple whammy with probably the most patient and enthusiastic partner for not just one but two of the evening’s dances. Although Reeling takes place all year round the main season is through the colder months. Anyone who has been to the odd Scottish castle will have experienced first hand that there really is no effective way of warming those grand stoney halls. So, those clever Scots, apart from providing an excuse to have a good
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spin with as many partners as humanly possible in one evening, came up with this mad dance-athon, which is sure to bring a bit of flush to even the most fading cheeks. The teenage son, my proxy reason for going, loved it by the way and we will definitely be going again next year. Perhaps we might need a bit more practice as you can only wave the newbie card once but it will be worth the effort and as I am now on first name terms with the go-to Mr. Reeling, I know just how I am going to swot up with a few pre-season lessons. One day I may venture up north for the real reel deal as I am being led to believe that not only do the goings on go on well into the wee hours (London managing it barely past 3ish) but also that the
gentlemen tend to out-do their southern cousins when it comes to delighting the ladies with handstands in the middle of an Eightsome reel. Clearly top marks will only be awarded for this sort of display of prowess if done in a kilt. Not only are kilts encouraged but at the grander events you even get to wear your tiara. Tiara’s are sparkly and fabulous and why not feel like a princess for the evening if you get the chance? No, sadly I do not have one of my own but I will be dropping hints for my next birthday. Apparently they are very practical as they can often be dismantled into several smaller items of jewellery, which is almost verging on thrifty don’t you think. Am I sounding convincing? How can I possibly fail in my quest!
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000 Cotswold Culture Feb 2016:Layout 1
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Cotswolds Culture ST VALENTINE’S DAY Susan Blanchfield explores the history of the festival – with moments of unworthy love We’ve come a long way from Valentine’s Day pre-Christian origins. The Roman Pagan fertility festival of ‘Lupercalia’ celebrated in mid-February is most commonly agreed to be the basis on which our current ‘St Valentine’s Day’ is derived, although Lupercalia’s celebration of love was rather more enthusiastic and unrestrained than our modern day decorous card rituals. In Pagan Rome, young men would strip naked and whip the backsides of random young women with sacrificial goat skin to aid fertility before indulging in a three day love fest. A sort of latter day IVF-meetssuburban-wife-swapping-party if you will, or substance fueled beach rave in San An, depending on your demographic. The latent popularity of Lupercalia led to the fifth century Pope Gelasius declaring 14th February a Christian feast day in a; if-you-can’t-beat-them-join-them canny Catholic Church rebranding move. To seal the deal, no less than three St Valentines swiftly showed up in the Martyred lists of the Roman Church thus paving the way for Pope Galasius to quietly abolish the Pagan Lupercalia in favour of a Christian St. Valentine’s Day. Once the idea of a chaste Valentine’s day had permeated public consciousness, St Valentine began popping up in popular Literature with notables such as Geoffrey Chaucer and Shakespeare’s crowd pleasing Hamlet referencing the term; for example in Ophelia’s lament: “Tomorrow is Saint Valentine’s day,/All in the morning bedtime,/And I a maid at your window,/To be your Valentine.” The Romantic notion of Valentine’s day was now firmly embedded in popular culture and the by the mid-18th Century, the idea of sending home made lovenotes decorated with lace had become a popular way of indicating interest in the 50 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
opposite sex. The cynical plot to extract cash out of star crossed lovers worldwide was not hatched until the early twentieth century when the regime of a saccharine, consumerist day driven by greetings card companies was dreamed up by the American company Hallmark. From then on, St Valentine’s day schmaltz was an unstoppable freight train and everyone was sending cards. It wasn’t all sweetness and light though, aside from one blemish on the twee calendar when Al Capone orchestrated the St Valentine’s Day Massacre in 1929, there was also a brisk trade in ‘I hate you’ cards or ‘Vinegar Valentines’. True love never runs smoothly and in the early 20th century, if you were a bit miffed with a member of the opposite sex you could send them a ‘Vinegar Valentine’. These cards were just as elaborate as a normal love card except for grotesque caricatures and snide ditties replacing romantic verse like this one from the 1940’s;
‘Your bright shining plate is seen at all shows, And invariably down in bald headed row, Where you make conspicuous by your tender care, Your true ardent love for that one lonesome hair’. The directness and savagery of the Vinegar Valentine makes the modern day act of unfriending someone from Facebook or sending a simple ‘it’s not you, it’s me’ text appear rather tidy and tame in comparison and on this occasion technology has the empathy card. In any event, ‘Vinegar Valentines’ enjoyed over
100 years of popularity before petering out - possibly as a result of society becoming a little more litigious… Savage treatment of unworthy lovers aside, the commercialisation of Valentine’s Day continued; peaking in a riot of homogeneity in the early 80’s when it became de rigour to celebrate one’s romance in a steak and Liebfraumilch way, preferably in a Beefeater and always to the back drop of Lionel Richie warbling ‘Three Times a Lady’. Recently, the cheesecake commercialism of Valentine’s Day has been joined by a new drive to accommodate our changing tastes. Noting the 14 February sales effect on flowers and cards as well as the hipster penchant for dismissing the mainstream, the diamond industry has picked up the slack by promoting St Valentine’s Day as a time for digging deep and giving jewellery. Brands such as Cartier and Tiffany spend millions of dollars employing Oscar-nominated directors to choreograph their Valentine’s Day marketing campaigns, some of them featuring real-life couples in touching and intimate stories with imagery that reflects modern consumer attitudes, tastes and notions of love but ultimately designed to keep us buying. Indeed, we have come a long way since the dead goats and the spanking. Susan Blanchfield is a Patron and Trustee of Cheltenham Festivals; she is a postgraduate doctoral researcher at the University of Gloucestershire and has a life long passion for the Arts in Education. Please contact Susan at: editor@stylemagazines.co.uk
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T R AV E L
000 Travel Lucy Garbutt Feb 2016:Layout 1
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THE MALDIVES
Outside our villa on the tropical island paradise of Filitheyo
ONE OF THE MOST ROMANTIC DESTINATIONS ON THE PLANET Self-professed adventuress and Travel Writer Lucy Garbutt set off with her husband for the ultimate romantic escape and rekindled love in barefoot paradise here can be nothing on earth more luxurious and romantic than the sparkling jewels of the Maldives where perfect powder-white sand beaches are lapped by the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean. This is the ultimate destination for rejuvenating the soul and celebrating something very special with the one you love. Every island is luxurious, unique and enchanting in its own way. Each boasts turquoise waves rippling along sugar white beaches and a ‘House Reef ’ with every imaginable colour of tropical fish on show. Maldivian food is top notch and combines fresh ingredients including locally caught fish to create some delicious local cuisine, exquisite curries and exotic salads – pure yum! Our sea plane nimbly took to the air
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and offered fabulous views over the garland of islands all winking at us like a tie-dye patterned piece of fabric in every blue describable, billowing in the breeze. We were soon welcomed to barefoot luxury and the feel of fine white sand beneath our feet. Our first stay was in a gloriously luxurious beach villa surrounded by swaying palms and exotic tropical vegetation and a beach of the very finest sand with a view to the ocean – pure romance! Our second Maldivian experience was contemporary, chic, intimate and incredibly luxurious on a perfect tiny island paradise home to a lovely tropical rainforest. Here we experienced the uniqueness of a Water Villa and the romance of being surrounded by the ocean. We frequently dipped into the
warm waters of the lagoon and swam with the resident turtle who quite happily let us join him on a hunting trip around the corals. On one sortie a shoal of ten or more Eagle Rays circled for almost half an hour feeding while we hovered overhead and on several occasions we passed them gliding up and down the coral wall. Meanwhile numerous black-tipped reef shark continuously cruised the reef ignoring our presence entirely. A sea plane then transferred us south to our next atoll and we touched down skimming the ocean chasing scores of frolicking dolphins. We were seemingly in the middle of the open ocean and only the two of us off-loaded onto a tiny, bobbing jetty with a small wooden sign announcing ‘Filitheyo International Airport’. Setting foot on the island we
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were ushered through the ancient palms and tropical paradise along winding sandy paths, past a tiny Maldivian lady gently sweeping the sand with a handful of sticks and to our enchanting villa with the lapping ocean waves a few paces away. Barefoot rustic! Dress code: bikini & sarong! This part of the archipelago boasts an incredible reef which wraps around the island like a bejewelled cape. Snorkelling makes for an exciting adventure as different species present themselves on each outing. The coral wall drops off the island into the deep blue beyond and this Garden of Eden is home to every describable Damsel, Wrasse, Angel and Butterfly fish. Blue Surgeonfish dodge the Parrotfish and Clownfish nestle between the tentacles of its swaying soft coral home. On each of our snorkelling sorties a posse of Curious Pipefish led the way with Spotted Unicorn almost bumping into the glass of our masks with their long snouts. Suddenly a shoal of a hundred or more Blue Triggerfish appeared gliding so close their tiny red teeth almost touched the glass. In the deep against a backdrop of navy blue a tapestry of Moorish Idol remained suspended as if on fine threads from the surface. Out of the blue Eagle Rays
cruised the wall closely followed by a Grey Reef Shark and below us a Giant Black Moray Eel rose up from the folds of his coral den baring his jaws menacingly and a shy Lion Fish hid in his cave. Chilling under palms outside our villa it is high-tide and the sand spit beyond the reef has disappeared from view. Thousands of tiny glittering fish shimmer across the surface like a fan of diamonds chased by larger dark fish skimming the surface. Wavelets of shining, peaked, whipped egg whites chase the caster sugar sand shimmering in the sunlight and then spills, sinking our loungers into the sand and sending the scuttling hermit crabs into their shells. The coconut man is doing his rounds bringing fresh coconut milk to us, his strong rough hands working
his machete as he deftly chops top and bottom for us to drink straight from the husk. For our next anniversary we are already planning our return to barefoot paradise! If you would like to rejuvenate your love in The Maldives a holiday can be tailor-made by World Odyssey, perhaps combining the Indian Ocean with a visit to Sri Lanka! – for more information on anything to do with your next holiday please visit www.world-odyssey.com – follow us @World_Odyssey, become a fan on Facebook and/or call one of our travel specialists for advice on: 01905 731373.
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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk
Style Event Zoe Drew
Darrell Blake and Claire Hanson
Chris Byrnes and KB
Cotswold Face & Body Clinic and Castle Fine Art Playboy Exhibition Cheltenham’s Cotswold Face & Body Clinic and Castle Fine Art hosted an event with a mini exhibition of Simon Claridge’s Playboy diamond-dust collection. Guests were treated to fizz while viewing the unique pictures and discovering more about the fabulous treatments being offered at the clinic. Darrell Blake and Ann Marie Heppinstall
James and Michelle Cockerton
Photography by Angus Bethune
Marta Reed and Chris Byrnes Laura Dowling, Yvette Brentnall and Claire Hanson
Tania Swift and Emma Beddow
Rachel Cappuccini Emma Logan, Jo Donald and Laura-Jayne Roberts.
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Tim and Emma Beddow
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Style Interview
Castaway COLLECTION
Fiercely British designer Selina Blow is famed for her “wickedly foppish, faultlessly tailored ensembles”, as described by Vanity Fair. Much influenced by her Sri Lankan background and Cotswold heritage, Selina’s pieces are renowned collectors items and have graced London’s V&A and The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Selina is a mother of two and sister-inlaw to the late Isabella Blow. Cotswold Style Columnist Ellie Mainwaring interviews Selina. Where in the world would you choose to be castaway to and why?
I like the sense of a fortified tower featuring a circular room with sweeping, far-reaching, extraordinary views. With this in mind, I’d choose Berkeley Castle overlooking the deer park in the vale and its rose lavender walls. What item of jewellery or accessory would you take?
A large baroque style cross set with water sapphire, a piece which has accompanied me through life since my early 20’s. I wear it like a chocker, high up around my neck, tied with a bootlace. You can take the entire works of one musician to your desert island, who will it be?
My brother Amaury spent his first record voucher on a Fred Astaire album – a curious choice for a young boy in the early 1970’s. I have happy memories of watching Fred’s movies with my parents, engrossed in the uplifting, charmful and all embracing nature of the music.
Lava lamps. I like the sense of kitsch, colour and transparency. What would be your luxury item?
While living in New York, I spent endless Sundays watching double bills of Alfred Hitchcock, from What movie would you take?
his early silent films to the hauntingly beautiful ‘Rebecca’. Picking one, it would be ‘Marnie’ for its dryness, explosion of colour, melting shapes and psychological suspense to the point of surrealism. What would be your last supper before departing?
I’m hugely greedy and would savour a dozen oysters, spicy steak tartar with French fries and a lemon crème brûlee. You can take one celebrity companion, dead or alive. Who will it be?
Elizabeth I. She experienced all in life from great joy to deep sadness with courage, great belief and a wonderful sense of style. What’s your most treasured wardrobe pieces?
Christian Dior 863 lipstick in matte red, a pair of vintage Courrèges sunglasses and a Philip Treacy gold mask Biggest memory item and what’s the story behind it?
I am an avid collector of my children’s artwork, right from when they started age 2. I love the colours and loose drawings. www.selinablow.com
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r M & Mrs Jones
Somewhere for the Weekend? Our very own Cotswoldia couple, Mrs and Mr Jones, hosts our travel section. They thoroughly investigate destinations ideal for a little trip away revealing vital tips on a glamorous getaway and also provide the inside track to ensure the destination caters for a range of tastes and wallets. From the slickest city hangouts to peaceful boltholes, you won’t waste a moment planning your travels. This month we visit ANTWERP in Belgium
ANTWERP
Mr Jones can be surprisingly romantic at times and quite delighted me when taking me to the diamond capital of the world, a perfect place to propose whilst choosing an exquisite ring in the diamond district of the city. Mr Jones has always maintained that Antwerp is the most unexpected and underrated city in Europe to visit.
Indeed, he would go as far to suggest that Belgium culture is completely overlooked. In addition he has often contended that the Belge can teach The French a thing or two about fine food and drink and that the fashion and art scene in Antwerp is quite incomparable. In the mid-16th century it was one of Europe’s most important cities and home to baroque superstar painter Pieter Paul Rubens, as you’ll be regularly reminded. There's a museum dedicated
to the city's best known resident as well as dozens of new contemporary art galleries in and around the Zuid district. Despite many historical travails thereafter and severe WWII bombing, the city retains an intriguing medieval heart with café-filled cobbled lanes, a riverside fortress and a truly impressive cathedral. The former red-light district, Het Eilandje, now buzzes with cool restaurants and outdoor bars; in summer, a disused hangar for shipping containers
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on the edge of the River Scheldt becomes an urban beach club for young Antwerpeners letting loose on the riverfront. The city holds its own against other fashion capitals, with a growing number of concept stores alongside the studios of designers Dries Van Noten and Ann Demeulemeester. Thanks to a group of imaginative, seriously talented chefs and mixologists, the food scene is hotter than ever, with pop-up restaurants, coffee shops that double as record stores and quirky cocktail bars - not to mention several Michelin-starred restaurants. All this and the city is still taking shape. In the last few years, the skyline has been transformed by the Museum aan de Stroom, devoted to everything Antwerp, the funnel-shaped Red Star Line Museum and Zaha Hadid's diamondinspired building for the Port Authority.
Diamonds
For over 550 years Antwerp has been the world’s most important and most reliable diamond trading centre. In testament to this, The City of Antwerp and the Antwerp World Diamond Centre (AWDC) have conceived “Antwerp’s Most Brilliant”. The label is designed to help you make your choice with confidence. If you are searching for a quality jeweller who provides excellent service, then each of the certified Antwerp’s Most Brilliant Jewellers are worthy of your trust: Juwelen L&A, www.l-a.be Juwelen Orogem, www.juwelenorogem.be Van der Veken, www.vandervekenjuweliers.be Diamani Jewels bvba, www.diamani.com Gerhild Kirchner, www.gerhildkirchner.be
Shopping
Antwerp is famous for its fashion district, De Modewijk, which can be found on and around Kammenstraat and Nationalestraat (don't miss Schutterhofstraat). Meanwhile, pedestrianised Meir (pronounced My-er) is the main shopping street and is lined with a host of national and international brands. For more individual shopping, browse the alleyways of the historic Centre and try Kloosterstraat for bric à brac and antiques.
Markets
The Sunday morning Vogelmarket on Theaterplein is an Antwerp institution and great for a slice of local life. The Exotic Market is also lively, although if you don’t like seeing caged birds give it a miss, it’s held on Theaterplein all day Saturday. Mr Jones worries that I will not leave any of the following empty handed. Graanmarkt 13 At Graanmarkt 13 buy ceramics and glassware from the restaurant and The Apartment. Fashion, too: Christopher Wijnants is a favourite label. www.graanmarkt13.be Labels Inc Find preloved designer pieces for a fraction of the original price at Labels Inc. Like a second-hand store, only better. www.labelsinc.be
Houben At Houben there's a tight edit of designers including Christopher Kane, Céline, Thom Browne and Simone Rocha. www.houbenstore.be
Loft Styles Loft Styles looks like a film-props warehouse with industrial lights, chesterfields, model planes, mannequins and battered trunks. www.loftstyles.eu Helder Interior-design studio Helder spills into a shop for sleek lamps, handmade jewellery and tongue-in-cheek embroidered badges. www.studiohelder.be
Magazyn Magazyn is the place to go to pick up design objects for your home in copper, glass and leather. www.magazyn.be The Recollection The Recollection is packed with modern-lifestyle essentials: Maison Martin Margiela homeware, art books, Aesop products. www.therecollection.com
What to See
Antwerp Cathedral A prominent feature of Antwerp’s skyline, the towering Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal) is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture and the largest church in Benelux. Antwerp Cathedral also shelters four magnificent Rubens altarpieces. It’s fairly hard to miss; just look for the lacy spire towering over Groenplaats and the nearby Grote Markt. There has been a church on this sight in Antwerp since the 9th century and the current Cathedral, which has undergone a number of renovations over the centuries, was originally constructed in the 14th century.
The Rubens House One of Antwerp’s interesting and unique museums is the Rubens House, the >>> COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 57
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Style Travel former residence and workshop of Flemish artist Peter Paul Rubens. Serving as the artist’s main residence for the last 30 years of his life, the Rubens House was purchased by him in 1610 and subsequently renovated and expanded according to his own designs. Since 1946 the Rubens House has been open to the public as a museum, giving visitors a glimpse into the life and art of a renowned 17th century nobleman, diplomat, architect, illustrator, and master painter.
MoMu The Antwerp ModeMuseum (MoMu) opened its doors in September of 2002 with a commitment to creating ‘a context for fashion and clothing behaviour’, presenting fashion in its social, political and cultural context through adventurous and dynamic exhibits. A world away from the stiff and stuffy glass-fronted presentations of the traditional costume display, Momus’s exhibits tend to the adventurous and iconoclastic. The Red Star Line Museum Two million passengers travelled from Antwerp to North America on-board the Red Star Line ships. The museum focuses on their story, on that of the shipping company that transported them and on the city and port from where they embarked on this journey.
A way to a man’s heart Restaurant 't Zilte Hanzestedenplaats 5 Phone: +32 3 283 40 40 www.tzilte.be Combines a unique and overwhelming location with a creative, inventive, product-driven kitchen offering more than top-level dining. Expect a comprehensive gastronomical theme park of a trip.
De Godevaart Sint-Katelijnevest 23, 2000 Antwerp www.degodevaart.be/ A gastronomical restaurant from Chef Dave De Belder, located in the centre of Antwerp. Dave is a young, dynamic and very enthusiastic chef, one of first chefs in Antwerp representing the modern & trendy molecular cuisine. Dave and his team are constantly striving to create new food pairings preparing light, innovative dishes. The chef specialises in the 58 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
Flemish Primitives cooking style and uses highly innovative ways to bring the Belgian top cuisine to a new level.
The Jane Paradeplein 1, 2018 Antwerpen thejaneantwerp.com Jane has transformed an imposing chapel into a trendy temple of food! The former altar has been replaced by an open-plan kitchen, devoted to the preparation of good food from quality produce. A masterful mixture of sophistication and simplicity, enhanced by rich flavours. Dock’s Café Jordaenskaai 7 www.docks.be Essential to visit, this vigorously lively happening venue is located in the avant garde redevelopment area of Scheldt Quays that links up-and-coming Eilandje with gentrified Zuid. Chic, baroque style bistro with gorgeous window views of the water. Famous for its fish and oyster bar, not to mention its dirty martinis, culinary expertise goes head-to-head with quality cocktails. Cheap, Ethnic and Cheerful Mata Mata & Pili Pili Hoogstraat 44, Antwerp, Belgium www.mata-mata-antwerpen.be This African cafe is one of the most laidback places to dine in Antwerp. The friendly owners have rustled up a menu that is endemic of authentic African cuisine served in vibrant surroundings. The bartenders also know a thing or two about cocktails, which are served until the small hours.
Kartini Oude Koornmarkt 61, Antwerp, Belgium www2.resto.be/kartini Mr Jones tells me that due to former colonies the Benelux countries are 'big' on Indonesian food, a good excuse to visit this cosy and casual ethnic gem.
The Perfect Seduction…
Where to Stay Mr Jones is really rather romantic at times and can certainly book somewhere quite seductive.... DE WITTE LELIE Keizerstraat 16 www.dewittelelie.be A perfect place for a luxurious
romantic weekend away and a perfect place to propose!
Hotel Julien Korte Nieuwstraat 24 www.hotel-julien.com So much Flemish style, discreet and sophisticated in this contemporary boutique townhouse with a roof terrace and inner courtyard.
Hotel Matelote Haarstraat 11a www.matelote.be A middle of the range priced hotel, minimalist with a very good location.
Bed, Bad & Brood Justitiestraat 43 2018 Antwerpen www.bbantwerp.com A really characterful, reasonable and friendly B&B verging on the bohemian with three spacious guest rooms called Sissi, Victoria and Gustav..
Getting There
AIRPORT Antwerp International Airport (+32 3 285 6500; www.antwerp-airport.be) is in the south western outskirts of the city. AIRLINES FROM THE UK VLM Airlines (+44 845 5280678; www.flyvlm.com); CityJet (0871 405 2020; www.cityjet.com).
BY RAIL Eurostar (08705 186 186; www.eurostar.com) with a change in Brussels. Written by Nigel Aplin
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"Ease back and allow the soothing ambiance to wash over you, as you bask upon the soft sands peppered across the coral atolls that make up the idyllic Maldives." Leanne Kelly Travel Expert, Travelbag Cheltenham
7 night Maldives holidays from £689pp Visitt your Visi your loc local al tr travelbag avelbag
shop 10-12 Pittville 10 0-12 P ittville St,, Cheltenham, Cheltenham, G GL52 2LJ or visit tr travelbag.co.uk avelbag..co.uk or ccall all 0845
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Calls C alls cost ost 3p per minute, minute, plus yyour our phone company’s mpany’s access charge Terms T erms & conditions conditions apply. V Valid alid ffor or select selected ed 2016 departures. Inclu Includes des return int international ernational flights. Subject Sub bject to availability. availability. ty. Prices Prices correct at time of print.
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FA S H I O N H E A LT H & B E A U T Y The Most Intense Skin Rejuvenation Treatment Yet To find out more about this incredible new advanced skin treatment, please contact the salon for a consultation. Clients are remarking on how amazing their skin is after just one treatment!!!
Tel: 01242 263610 Email: studio19beauty@gmail.com
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Specialists in the resale of preloved designer clothing and accessores. Situated in the heart of Montpellier, CHAPTERs is a treasure trove of new and nearly new designer outfits at affordable prices. From Vintage Chic to this seasons must haves... every woman’s weakness!
07545 865 985
@ChaptersDress
chapters_dress_agency
101 Montpellier Street, Cheltenham GL50 1RS
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Hair & Beauty Fix This Valentine’s it’s Love from Laura Leigh Hair and Beauty What are you doing to get yourself beautified for Valentine’s? Every girl loves to be pampered. This Valentine's Day, treat yourself or someone special to one of the many luxurious treatments now available at the new Laura Leigh Hair and Beauty salon in Cheltenham.
Get Smooth Shiny Hair You may not have your Valentine’s Day plans perfected, or maybe your loved one is keeping them as a surprise but you can make sure that your hair will be perfect. Book your Valentine’s Day blowdry at the New Laura Leigh Blowdry bar. Prices from £20. Shiny hair reflects youth and vitality. keep the look loose and natural with a subtle dose of glamour. Elegant and touchable hair is the best option for a date night. ‘Most men would probably love it more if your hair was carefree and relaxed.’
The Caci Hydratone facial treatment uses a moisture infused gel mask to bathe the skin with intensive hydrating actives. De-hydrated and sun damaged skin is immediately quenched by the hydrating properties of the mask. The Hydratone mask also has a softening action on the skin tissue that helps to plump out and smooth lines and wrinkles. Caci treatments start from £40. To book a complimentary skin consultation call Laura Leigh Beauty, 01242 530598.
Smooth Kissable Lips These days everyone is talking about the all important fuller pout and curvaceous lips! CACI’s non-filler lip plumping salon treatment is the answer to kissable lips this Valentine’s. In just ten minutes, this salon treatment tones facial muscles over the entire mouth area while reducing fine lines leaving you with full lips. This treatment is priced at just £40.
Maximize your lashes
Refresh Your Complexion Good skin hydration is essential in order to maintain a healthy and youthful complexion.
Make your dream lashes a reality. Choose from a variety of looks that last from one day to two weeks. Express Lash extensions: Applied one by one to your natural eyelashes, created to imitate your own lashes for a fuller flawless look. The Express Lash treatment is ideal for special occasions, a speedy service if you have limited time to spare but still want beautiful lashes. Express Lashes £45 at Laura Leigh Beauty.
Get a Great Wax There is nothing romantic about a bikini wax but Laura Leigh Beauty can help you make the best of it with Lycon wax, which is extremely popular with celebrities including Victoria Beckham and Sienna Miller. Lycon wax removes hair as short as 1mm and with its low temperature it provides a much more comfortable treatment for sensitive skin and delicate areas. Lycon wax will prevent hair breakage, in-grown hairs, bruises and redness and the painful sting associated with waxing, therefore it leads to softer smoother skin for longer. REMEMBER with a good waxing therapist you will never go very red or bruised! The bikini wax: Hair is removed from outside the panty line removing some hair at the top to create a defined triangle area. G-String wax: This is a very high bikini wax leaving a small line of hair allowing for a narrow cut thong bikini to be worn. The Brazilian and Hollywood: Brazilian wax is where all of the hair is removed, except for a strip of hair which can be as thick or as narrow as you wish. Hollywood wax is everything off! Tips for the best waxing results: The first thing to do is prepare. Ingrown hair can be common with strip waxing, however with hot wax there is generally less. Exfoliate every evening 3 days before your wax appointment, focusing on the bikini line. Then remember not to moisturize before the waxing, only after. It would be advisable to trim your hairs if they are longer than 1.5cm as it will make it less painful or you. Waxing treatments start at £15. Polish your fingers and toes Valentine’s Day is the perfect time to go all out with reds, pinks and anything else that reminds us of love visit Cheltenham’s first Essie Nail Bar. Prices from £20.
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Mind, Body & Soul We discover some of the new, sensational treatments or products available in the Cotswolds and surrounding areas to recuperate your mind, body and soul This month’s column focuses on ‘days out,’ experiencing things you just don’t give yourself the time to normally do MAKE-UP MASTER CLASS FROM MACH MANAGEMENT, AVAILABLE THROUGHOUT THE COTSWOLDS & UK How many of you ladies struggle with your make-up? Are you still using the same routine you did 20 years ago? Is your drawer full of products you were convinced into buying by those glossy ladies at the gleaming counters and then when home wondering how on earth you now apply that smoky eyed look? These are issues a great many of us dwell upon whilst perhaps contending with a manky old bag full of products we don’t really know what do with – it’s time to DECLUTTER. Step-in Claire Hanson, Cotswold Style’s celebrity make-up artist extraordinaire and show the Cotswold Style team of writers what to do! Claire and her business partner Dominique Ventura, a globally recognised Lifestyle Coach, hosted a fabulous day at their studios based near Lechlade joined by their own team of make-up professionals. We discovered how to change the look
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of the shape of ones face with the simplest of movements, the perfect daily make-up routine and then the sheer revelation of the ‘sweep up’ movement with an eye shadow brush (you wouldn’t paint your walls side to side so why would we apply our eye make-up this way?!) it was incredible! But it’s more than that, both Claire & Dominique are such genuine and passionate people who believe in helping people to look and feel amazing both inside and out and they work seamlessly together creating a very relaxing atmosphere and almost a serene feeling when you’re with them. Cotswold Style’s Fashion Photographer, Stef CallejaGera said, “I never imagined that a make-up de- clutter day would result in so
much emotion and leave me to come away with a renewed sense of self-belief and worth as well as some incredible tips too. Life = changed!” Media Horticulturist Camilla Bassett Smith, found the day, “Motivating, uplifting and full of take home tips and expertise the perfect hosts. A day of down-to-earth glamour, which for me as a gardener and performer was the perfect combination!” Claire’s make-up tips are inspiring and we all loved the fact that she promotes beauty from within. As she says, “A smile beats plastic surgery any day and confidence enhances beauty tenfold”. She is clearly an expert in her field but to have Dominique's life coaching on offer to complement her service is truly unique. What an interesting and inspiring man. A make-up master class is not about having to rush to buy yet more cosmetics afterwards, it’s about using what you already have, though Claire offers recommendations of some great products she has discovered such as organic company, Green People (www.greenpeople.co.uk) as they are a fabulous, ethical company who offer
PHOTOGRAPHY BY WWW.SCG-PHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK
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Style Health genuinely effective skincare and make-up. If you are interested in a de-clutter event either by yourself or with some girlfriends, 1 professional make-up artist would work with 2-4 ladies. For larger groups you would be set up in pairs and after the initial talk, 3 artists would work with smaller groups for the de-clutter element. This will be a day you will never regret! For further information contact: MACH Management Tel: 01367 241 044 Email: clairehanson@ machmanagement.com www.machmanagement.com
HOT STONE MASSAGE AT THE MONTPELLIER CHAPTER, CHELTENHAM By Christine Brown Being asked to review a spa is what I would class as one of the good things in life. Yet such is the all-pervading urgency of life, I almost decided I didn’t have time. Because I am Too Busy and have Things To Do. Thank goodness I sacrificed my allimportant time to try a Hot Stone Massage at The Montpellier Chapter. This treatment is an ancient form of therapy, said to alleviate internal issues such as digestion as well as external muscular issues. The classic image of this therapy shows a
woman lying face down with a line of smooth rounded stones down her back. So I anticipated a relaxing, pleasant experience. I got a lot more than that. The spa at Montpellier Chapter is an oasis of calm, tucked away from the rest of the hotel. I was greeted and treated by Alice, who has managed the spa for almost a year and we had a discussion regarding areas I felt needed attention and a thorough explanation of what was involved. The rooms are simply decorated, with light wood panelling, perfectly lit and importantly, with good music. After about ten minutes I normally begin to rebel against the typical ‘plinky plonky’ music of
many spas. Here, it was chilled yet funky…and you can have it changed to your own preferences. The hot stones are used for placing on certain areas of the body but also to perform the actual massage, smooth and very effective. The massage worked brilliantly on tense muscles with a lighter touch on other areas. You are treated head to toe, from a hot stone massage on the feet, all the way up to a scalp massage. Hot stones are also applied on top and beneath the body and a lovely cold stone massage for a facial was the final touch. It was incredibly relaxing, but also effective for problem areas, I had already decided to return by the time I peeled myself reluctantly off the bed. As for my busy life…that had to wait another day. The Montpellier Chapter Hotel & Spa Bayshill Road, Cheltenham GL50 3AS Tel: 01242 527788 www.themontpellierchapterhotel.com/spa
Tel: 01242 527788
WHATLEY MANOR SPA REVIEW, NEAR MALMESBURY By Kelly Rogers I am a fidget with the attention span of a gnat. I am that girl with a thousand tabs open on her desktop, with 3 half read books on holiday. Anyhow, I digress (see what I mean), the point is that 3 hours spent bobbing in a salt pool before a 2 hour scrubbing with a pumice stone to coax out inner peace / trapped wind / my soul filled me with dread, on this my first ‘spa day’ experience. Until this happened. A small wrinkled, bald dude arrived and decided to wreck havoc on my body, mind and sleep pattern. I had met my match. This insatiable milk monster showed me I was a rookie in the art of exercising my transient attention span. Suddenly the prospect of lying down in a dark, silent room for 3 hours seemed appealing. Cue my arrival at Whatley Manor, a beautiful honey coloured temple of heaven hiding away in the Wiltshire countryside where we were greeted by Eloise who gently guided us around the immaculate spa and it’s facilities. A hydrotherapy pool with airbed, air tub, neck massage jets and air bench (the mere mention of ‘bed’ made me want to cry); an outdoor pool area with more jets and an opportunity to take in the postcard views; tepidarium with hot stone recliners; salt scrub showers; a thermal theme park
of saunas, steam rooms and even a mud chamber. Wow, so many things to do. This was my ADHD dream! I changed into robes and slippers to wait for my treatments and squeezed in enough time to throw back a glass of Champagne (er no one said it was a detox). My first treatment was an Ila Spa Ananda facial. Ila Spa creates luxury ‘beyond organic’ products favoured by the famous and often touted as the ‘best of British’ within the high-end, organic skincare industry. Good start then. A therapist then led my withered husk of a body into a dark room. Politely noting that my skin was a little thirsty she gently began to work on specific energy points of the face and neck to help remove tension and toxins and stimulate energy flow. My objective was to leave the room looking ‘normal’ again but after an hour of pampering I skipped, gazelle-like, from the room feeling brand new. I note again, this wasn’t a detox. So we passed up the lunch menu in favour of… cheese fondue in the hotel’s brassiere. Having now consumed an entire cauldron of melted gruyere I then returned for my Ila Scrub treatment. Feeling like an overgrown reptile this seemed to be the ideal treatment to assist the de-scaling process. After an hour’s heavenly scrubbing and massaging I left the room (and most of my skin) with limber, soft and shiny limbs. The day was then finished off floating about idly in the pool hopping in and out of various steam and sauna chambers. Not only did Whatley Manor make a spa convert out of me it also acted as the perfect antidote to my new parental exhaustion. Every request was met and I would strongly recommend the venue to anyone who is feeling a little frayed, tired or simply in need of a retreat. So will I be going back? Hell yes. Whatley Manor Hotel & Spa, Easton Grey Malmesbury, Wiltshire SN16 0RB Tel: 01666 822888
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LINC Celebrates its Target Aim Dr Gill Rouse, LINC Director welcomes new clinical psychologist Rachael Edge to the charity In December 2013 LINC (the Leukaemia & Intensive Chemotherapy Fund) launched an appeal to raise £250K to fund a second clinical psychologist for 3 days a week. Dr Nicky Dobbin had worked with our patients 2 days a week since September 2006 but it was becoming apparent that there was not enough available time for those who were seeking help. Many patients or relatives would like to have seen her but couldn’t. LINC gives total support to leukaemia, lymphoma and other cancer patients who are treated within Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. The treatment of
leukaemia is different from that of other cancers in that it involves a period of intensive chemotherapy followed by a stem cell or bone marrow transplant. The patient is isolated in a small ensuite room and can be in hospital for anything up to six months. The clinical psychologist plays a vital role in helping the patient and their family to cope with this difficult time. In June 2015, LINC reached its target of £250K and a second clinical psychologist, Rachael Edge, was appointed. Rachael started in October 2015 working 3 days a week so we now have the equivalent of a full time post. Patients need nice comfortable
surroundings to open their hearts so LINC has redecorated and refurnished the old counselling room by Rendcomb Ward side rooms to create a relaxed environment for our LINC Clinical Psychology Team. We would like to thank everyone who has contributed to this achievement in any way. It will make a huge difference to patients, their families and our medical staff. In a recent hospital inspection, the department was praised for having a clinical psychology team. The LINC charity will continue to do everything it can to improve patient care. www.lincfund.org
Rachael Edge
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BEAUTY H E AV E N Cotswold Style’s new celebrity Beauty Editor, Claire Hanson is the founder and owner of Hair, Make-up, Beauty and Lifestyle Coaching Company, MACH Management and the Personal Assistant to singing legend, Lionel Richie he beginning of the year can be a mix of emotions for many people – and often a time for reflection. It is certainly a time when I take the opportunity to plan the MACH team’s coming year, check my calendar for Lionel Richie’s busy schedule...and some planned “me time” amongst it all! This may also be a super time to focus a little
T
Claire and Lionel Richie
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on you. The children are now well and truly back into their school routines, Christmas is a year away, and next up on the commercial calendar is Valentines Day! It is at this start to the year, that the MACH office receives an extra influx of enquiries related to all aspects of 'Style', and also 'Change'. Be it Make-up &/or Hair, or Lifestyle Balance through our
Coaching department, it's all about attaining 'the new me'. Becoming healthy in both mind and body. It could be in preparation for your forthcoming wedding or, at the other end of the scale your looming divorce – we are here for you. January and February are traditionally 'Out with the old, in with the new', and it just so happens to be a passion of mine to assist where ever I can in making you all feel and look wonderful! So – lets get to it shall we ladies? We create many Master classes designed to suit the individual and Ladies groups. A popular topic, which fits the “Spring Clean” is our “Revamp Your Make-up Bag”. Take a look in detail (in the Mind, Body & Soul section), at the day we arranged for the Cotswold Style Magazine’s team. Your Make-up Bag De-Clutter or Revamp is a great move – do you really need the very dodgy 'Mystical Moss' shade of eye shadow that came free in the duty free set when it was only the lipstick you were interested in anyway? Ah, but yes it would make the most perfect eyebrow filler! It's a crime to suggest to anyone with a make-up bag weighing the same as a fully-grown Elephant the need to buy new items – I much prefer to suggest a good spring clean. Now I couldn't leave you all without a 'heart warming' Valentine’s related make-up moment could I? Lets think Lips! Several bug bares on that romantic evening out with a hot lip colour are: Lip fade, transferring the lush lips to your partner and colour bleeding. Oh non of these words conjure up a good image, so take a look at my TIPS IN A BOX....
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TIP 1 Need a solid lip colour? Go for a matte texture, longer lasting that won't easily bleed or transfer with a kiss! For extra 'lip security' try lining the lip with a nude coloured liner, it works a treat. I love MAC Lipstick ‘Ruby Woo’ priced at £15.00 – A classic red, perfectly worn by presenter Holly Willoughby.
TIP 2 Dry lips? Try a gloss. Apply a little at a time and really don't think too much more about it. Inevitably it will come off with food and drink but a subtle reapplication will be fine. I love Lavera – 03 Magic Red, Glossy Lips Organic @ www.soorganic.com £10.50
TIP 3 Try a red liner lightly around the lip edge (not too defined) and use that as a stain – you fill the lips a little all over with the liner, blending with your finger. The more solidly you fill your lips will look fuller. You can add a gloss or leave as it is. Less bleeding and very little transferring of colour. I love 'Dr Hauschka' Lip liner 03 in Soft Rose at £10.00, its soft texture makes it easy to apply and build up if needed. Now a little 'food for thought' for the 'food conscious' amongst you. How about if I told you we eat
approximately 6 lipsticks in our lifetime through food, beverage consumption and talking! To their non-chemical, lipstick blends our wonderful friends at 'Aveda' have included an ingenious addition of Mint to aid any digestion issues. These lipsticks smell so good but I still don't recommend eating them! Try Aveda's 'Nurish-Mint' 721 Poppy, a bright cool red at £15.00.
Now ladies for the Va Va Voom (the name given to one of our MACH Beauty Manicure Treatments) in nail colour. The “super heeled” may love to try Christian Laboutin’s Rouge Nail Colour - £36.00. As you'd expect the heel makes a delightful appearance! Go shine ladies... Love and Light.
Please contact Claire Hanson at: MACH Management, T: 01367 241 044, E: clairehanson@machmanagement.com, www.machmanagement.com
COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 69
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LAWRANCE JOHN HAIR SALON *
HALF PRICE CUT & BLOW DRY
ON YOUR FIRST VISIT 01242 582305 www.lawrancejohn.co.uk | lawrancejohn@info4hair.com 23/25 The Promenade | Cheltenham | GL50 1LE *Terms & Conditions apply and not restricted to: 50% discount may be used on cut and finish over the spend value of ÂŁ25. First visit only. Expiry date 01/06/2016. Not in conjunction with any other offer or discount. Not transferable. Nil value
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Cheltenham’s Leading Hats
Cotswold Style has met with two inspirational ladies who will ensure you are looking your finest on Ladies Day at The Festival PHOTOGRAPHY BY WWW.SCG-PHOTOGRAPHY.COM
ALICE LINLEY
Alice 72 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
My name is Alice Linley and I am 24 years old and I work at Cheltenham Racecourse. Having been brought up in horseracing, I have attended many race meetings over the years invariably at the bigger meetings such as Royal Ascot that can only mean multiple outfits and different hats! As a result I have fallen in love with fashion at the Races. I always struggled to find a unique hat that’s special and just for me so I had a go at designing my own, which became a cost effective solution! Of course there have been a few dodgy attempts but it’s been fun, and the satisfaction I get when I finally manage to create something I am happy with is very rewarding. I first realised that I was creating hats that others like at Royal Ascot when I was photographed wearing my own creations resulting in my pieces being
featured in both and The Daily Mail in 2012 and Vogue magazine in 2014. Since then my friends have started asking me to create hats for them and it’s getting more and more difficult to find the time as I have a day job at Cheltenham (especially as we near The Festival in March), but I like a challenge! Working at The Festival, I am surrounded by inspiring winter raceday fashion which is becoming more of a focus for racegoers whether it be the more traditional or the totally outrageous. The Festival is the pinnacle of our season and it is not just for our four legged friends, it is where ladies and gentleman dress in their finest winter clothes and are now paying more and more attention to hats, making it the perfect surrounding for someone like me to showcase my small collection, which I will wear across the four days. My debut collection is inspired by a love of high fashion and luxurious
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Style Fashion fabrics, incorporating my love for Racing and the countryside. The collection is Elegant, with a nod towards a more classic and traditional style. Up until now, millinery has been a mere hobby with friends and family benefitting, but I am now planning on creating a collection especially for The Festival in March. I can be contacted on 07547572165/alicelinley@hotmail.co.uk if you would like me to create a unique Festival option for you!
Fiona
Three bespoke creations from Alice... Fur Percher – This hat is surprisingly warm! A simple smartie shaped base, covered in a black sheepskin gives it an elegant feel – two Pheasant is a gentle nod to the countryside – Perfect for The Festival!
Black Bow Percher – A simple black percher, with a front bow detail the cobalt blue died pheasant feathers which brighten the hat – this would accompany a bright blue coat brilliantly. Blue Leopard Percher – This Hat give a subtle but fierce look – A felt leopard print base, with cobalt blue died pheasant feathers, black arrow head and silver button detail.
FIONA JOHNSON My name is Fiona Johnson and I am married to National Hunt Jockey Richard Johnson. Being the daughter of racehorse trainer Noel Chance, I have been involved with racing all my life and one of the highlights of my year for as long as I can remember, has been going to The Cheltenham Festival. This year I am particularly excited, as I have recently launched my own hat hire company. I decided to start Fiona Johnson Hat Hire, as I personally love wearing hats whether it is to a race meeting or wedding – no excuses are needed! I live in Herefordshire and due to my own struggle to find hats to hire I noticed a gap in the market in the county. I had also started to build my own personal collection of headwear, so after much market research to find out if I would have clients and what they may want, I decided to take the plunge and launch my business. I am a mother of three and with my husband riding all over the country every day I wanted to do something that could work around my lifestyle; Fiona Johnson Hat Hire is fitting into our lives perfectly. My clients can either come to my house to try on or they can see the full collection on my Facebook pagehttps://www.facebook.com/FionaJohnson-Hat-Hire I have already had many clients who have sent me pictures of their outfits and I ensure I match up the perfect hat for them. I offer a postal service and if people are attending The Festival, I can drop off and pick up the hat at the races. I have had a dream start, hiring plenty of hats for local weddings and have received tremendous support from
friends and family. The orders are already coming in for Cheltenham and I can’t wait as this will be my first big racing festival and first Ladies Day I will be hiring hats out for. My friends and I discuss and plan our outfits for Cheltenham weeks in advance of the National Hunt showpiece and this year, I am particularly excited to be assisting lots of other ladies rather than just my friends. In my opinion, a hat finishes off an outfit and I enjoy helping ladies look and feel fabulous with one of the pieces from my extensive collection. I have something for everyone, whether you are looking for a classic hat or something that offers a bit of fun to what you are wearing. I think it is superb what Cheltenham Racecourse has done to enhance their Ladies Day competition in recent years. It offers an extra dimension to the day and in turn helps to entice new people to the wonderful sport of racing. Not only are there amazing prizes on offer but with so many women making huge efforts to look their very best, I feel it is important for me to do the same and it often gives me inspiration for future events that I am attending myself. In recent years the level of fashion at the races has risen and it is wonderful to see so many different styles and so many well-dressed women enjoying the thrill and the buzz of The Festival at Cheltenham. For more information on Fiona Johnson Hat Hire you can contact me on 07795833614 or fionajohnsonhathire@gmail.com To view the full collection visithttps://www.facebook.com/ Fiona-Johnson-Hat-Hire. COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 73
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Our range of jewellery and antiques is larger than you would imagine and if you are looking to source quality diamonds, precious stones, gold, silver or time pieces then look no further. We also have a large range of one off pieces and individually styled antique and vintage jewellery items.
www.promenadeantiques.co.uk www.carolynkingart.com I5185
A5408
A5431
18ct White Gold Aqua and Diamond cluster ring | £1,950.00 A4366
9ct Yellow Gold Pink Sapphire drop earrings, ‘Birds Nest’ by Jane Watling | £850.00 G5143
I3449
G91987
18ct White Gold Art Deco style Diamond ring | £1,750.00
Platinum Old-cut Diamond & Baguette-cut Diamond shoulders | £7,850.00 G4750
14 ct and Silver Diamond and Ruby owl pendant | £275.00
F5068
9ct White Gold Pearl and Diamond fancy studs | £395.00 I5154
18ct White Gold Sapphire and Diamond cushion cluster ring | £2,650.00
A5444
Cushion-cut Emerald and Old-cut Diamond cluster bracelet | £6,950.00 I9261
18ct White Gold Sapphire and Diamond cluster studs | £795.00 A5440 18ct White Gold Pear-cut Aqua and Diamond drop pendant | £995.00 A5379
Pink Sapphire and Diamond Pave set fancy dress ring | £995.00 G2814
18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond set cross | £1,295.00 A4304
18ct Yellow & White Gold Fresh Water Pearl and Diamond dress ring | £645.00
9ct and Silver Diamond fox head pendant with Ruby eyes | £425.00 H5801
18ct & Platinum Brilliant-cut Diamond bow brooch | £1,750.00
18ct White Gold Old-cut Diamond drop earrings | £2,950.00 A4238
18ct Yellow & White Gold Ruby and Brilliant-cut Diamond cluster ring | £4,950.00
I3440
18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Dimond stud earrings with Diamond halo | £4.750.00
18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond cluster ring featuring a Yellow Diamond centre stone | £9,500.00 I5256
18ct Yellow Gold Emerald and Diamond flower stud earrings | £795.00
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F5147
A5349
Columbian Emerald and Diamond dress ring | £7,500.00
I5311
I5728
18ct Yellow and White Gold bracelet featuring three Brilliant-cut Diamonds | £1,500.00 A5355
A3322
18ct White Gold Aqua and Diamond fancy spray cluster earrings | £995.00
A5471
18ct White Gold Old-cut Diamond ring with Diamond set shoulders | £4,500.00
18ct White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond earrings | £1,950.00
Old-cut Diamond and two Pear-cut Emerald fancy dress ring | £7,500.00
18ct Yellow Gold Sapphire and Diamond channel set bangle, graduated | £3,850.00 I5741
A5406
18ct White Gold Sapphire and Brilliant-cut Diamond three stone ring | £5,450.00 Brilliant and Baguette-cut Diamond fancy cluster ring | £1,850.00
18ct Yellow and White Gold Ruby and Diamond three stone ring | £6.500.00
F5104
G5732
A5303
A5398
18ct Yellow Gold Ruby and Old-cut Diamond Victorian ring | £1,295.00
18ct Yellow and White Gold Brilliant-cut Diamond studs in a Rub-over setting | £1,250.00 I4978
I5271
F5102
18ct White Gold Diamond and Ruby fancy cluster studs | £1,750.00 A6298 Ruby and Brilliant-cut Diamond line bracelet, claw set | £2,950.00
Old-cut Diamond drop pendant, claw set on 9ct White Gold chain | £2,250.00
Trilliant-cut Diamond studs in a Rub-over setting | £2,950.00
F4511
Platinum Cushion-cut Diamond ring with Diamond halo and shoulders | £3,250.00
I3454 A5376
9ct White Gold Aqua flower cluster studs | £465.00
9ct Yellow Gold bracelet with heart padlock | £495.00
18ct White Gold Sapphire and Diamond fancy three stone cluster ring | £2,750.00
I5295
18ct White Gold Brilliantcut Diamond swirl studs | £1,500.00
A5448
18ct White Gold Aqua and Diamond fancy dress ring | £1,450.00
We specialise in secondhand and antique watches clocks & pocket watch time pieces including a range of premier brands such as
Rolex, Cartier, Omega, Breitling, Longines and many more...
WE BUY WE SELL WE PART EXCHANGE 18 The Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1LR | Tel: 01242 524519 | info@promenadeantiques.co.uk
www.promenadeantiques.co.uk
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Bluebella Sash
a Eyemask, £1
0, available at
House of Fras
er, Cheltenha m
stella ellie leaping bikini bra £35 and briefs £35 available at House of Fraser, Cheltenham
Inside the Valentine’s Closet Cotswold Style’s Fashion Editor, Yvette Brentnall has chosen some beautiful underwear, perfect for a romantic Valentine’s. Wacoal Marquise Chemise, £98, e available at Hous of Fraser, Cheltenham
To all you gorgeous ladies out there, Valentine’s Day is upon us. So it's that time of year when your partner buys you underwear or, as in my case, you buy it yourself! Personally I buy underwear to make me feel good and view it as an extension of what you wear. If you don’t have the structure of a good bra your clothes simply don’t sit right. I have selected a few of my favourite pieces from House of Fraser and Sandra Dee based in Cheltenham. They are reasonably priced with a seductive nod towards current trends. Of course if your budget doesn’t not allow you much, remember to buy a pretty cotton bra with good support. H&M has a very well priced and stylishly designed collection, certain to adorn your assets perfectly.
Stella McCartney Stella Smooth Bik ini Brief, £25, availab le at House of Fraser , Cheltenham
76 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
Calvin Klein Evocative Bodysu it, £95, available at House of Fraser, Cheltenham
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Style Fashion
Soir de Venise by Lise Charmel, Halfcup Bra £91, Retro Brief £86, available at Sandra Dee, 3 Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham. www.sandradee.co.uk
ck Label Ultimo Bla ust Bra rB lle Fu n ia Viv ble £40, availa er, Fras of se ou H at m Cheltenha
Heidi Klum Int imates Bra £36, Midi Br Zoe Underwired ief £22, availab le at House of Fr aser, Cheltenha m
4 and Cara bra £3 ble at Bluebella la ai av 16 f£ Cecilia brie er, Cheltenham as House of Fr
Stella McCartn ey Breast canc er awareness Alina Plunge Br a £65, at House of Fr Brief £35, available aser, Cheltenha m
COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 77
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EXPLA N THE MARKET The Cotswolds Forming Economic Links With Africa he Cotswolds has long enjoyed strong economic links with Africa. From investment giant Investec linking London to Johannesburg via Cheltenham through to projects like Minchinhampton’s twinning with Nkokoto in Tanzania - our relationship with the world’s second largest continent is well established. But African economies are growing fast and a different relationship with the UK is evolving. Rapid innovation in mobile technology, agriculture and finance are helping people think differently about what a future relationship with Africa might become. Brits are helping in new ways and being rewarded differently. Rikard Svendsen, Chairman of Enterprise Africa, promotes UK business across the continent. He explained… “China has intensified its investment across the African continent contributing to a global capital investment of US$128B, up 136% on previous year. Not wanting to be left behind, the UK has taken a fresh look at the worlds' fastest growing economy. They have realised that the Africa of today, no longer wants aid or charity but instead craves highly technical and innovative solutions to provide basic services to its 1.1 billion people. Companies specialising in renewable energy, telecommunications, financial services, health, education and agriculture have seen the potential to not only make millions in profit but also improve the lives of millions of African people - all at the same time. And it’s this ‘win-win’ that makes investing in Africa so attractive to UK companies.” Agricultural innovation in many African nations is world beating. New initiatives involving Cotswolds companies are helping to foster fruitful links for British business. A key part of the UK government’s Agri-tech strategy since 2013 has been to help Africa, by linking together the best UK, Chinese and African research and private sector organisations. More knowledge and
T
80 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
expertise is now being shared between Africa and the UK than ever before – helping UK Agri-tech flourish in concert with Africa rather than in competition against it. Another reason for economic optimism is the explosion of the mobile industry across Africa. Over 600 million people about 56% of the population - are now likely to own a mobile phone, with some researchers estimating the figure could hit 80% in the next few years. To put things into perspective the number was just 1% in the year 2000. There are now more than 35 mobile network operators in Africa busily extending their base station networks to improve coverage. British business is waking up to the opportunities this presents. Whether it’s farmers accessing local market prices for their produce or doctors using medical data mobile innovation is transforming the way people work. Mobile payments in Africa have similarly seen dramatic growth. Vodafone and Safaricom's M-Pesa mobile payments system already handles £7 billion worth of payments in Africa each year. Africa is home to 6 of the top 10 fastest growing countries on earth but a big challenge facing many African countries is how to deal with national debt. Many governments struggle not just to repay debt but crucially they often lack expertise in how to negotiate and re-structure complex contracts. The economic climate this creates can then stifle both business growth and customer sentiment. One key way UK firms are helping is by providing direct support to governments. This year a number of large UK based law firms will be at the forefront of providing economic support to the government of many African countries. With the fall in global commodity prices, a number of oil and metal exporting nations like Angola, Nigeria, South Africa and Zambia are only forecasting a modest recovery from the global financial crisis. In many situations banks have agreed to renegotiate contracts to help make debt
About Guy... Guy Shone is an economist & business expert who appears regularly on BBC News, BBC Breakfast, BBC World, BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio 5 Live. He has also appeared on BBC Radio 4’s today programme, Sky News and ITV News. Guy is the former City & Business columnist for the Metro newspaper and now runs the research business ExplaintheMarket. Guy spent most of his 17 year career in the City. His previous jobs were the Head of Research for global investment group Old Mutual plc and Research Director for the government backed Money Advice Service. In 2012, he was commissioned by the UK government to produce the largest study ever done into the financial behaviour of UK families. He lives in the Cotswolds with his wife and daughter.
repayments easier but they cannot always be relied on to show the foresight and flexibility required to keep pace. Law firms are increasingly getting involved and providing the expertise needed to secure more favourable payment terms. Work like this helps sustain healthy conditions for business and allows investment to thrive while economies develop. Trade worth £10 billion now flows between the UK and South Africa every year while financial powerhouses such as Old Mutual and Investec provide access to an array of investments spanning both markets. This means South Africa remains the most important gateway to the continent for entrepreneurs and investors alike. However, things are changing fast and new opportunities are emerging every day across another 53 African countries where people brimming with talent and innovation are ready to do business. Guy can be reached on twitter @GuyShone
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B US I N E S S
& EDU CAT I O N
www.ctfc.com
CONFERENCING AND VENUE HIRE AT CHELTENHAM TOWN FOOTBALL CLUB FROM MEETINGS TO WEDDINGS AT THE STADIUM AND SEASONS TRAINING COMPLEX
Call 01242 588107 or email john.finnigan@ctfc.com
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WESTMINSTER IN THE COTSWOLDS Emma Logan has asked the county’s MPs to inform Cotswold Style readers what they have be doing to represent their constituencies both locally and from Westminster
Neil Carmichael
NEIL CARMICHAEL, MP FOR STROUD There are two big “E’s” that are the big political challenges for the UK in 2016. The first is Europe - most people expect the referendum on the United Kingdom’s membership of the European Union to be held this year but even if it is delayed until next year, the debate and campaign is already a dominant part of the political landscape from now on. The two sides with all their component parts are getting organised. The arguments should revolve around the central issue of Britain’s national interest in an increasingly global economy but the temptation to look back wistfully through rose-tinted glasses will, for some, be difficult to resist. In my view, a socially modern, economically robust and politically influential UK is dependent on remaining in the EU. The other key issue for 2016 will be Education. The ongoing requirement for reforms to ensure no child is overlooked or abandoned remain uppermost on the agenda. The work of the Education Select Committee will continue to be geared towards producing fresh thinking, new ideas and 82 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
a holistic approach to policy making. “I think the main purpose of my education is to get me a job”, said one of the young people featured in the launch video for our Purpose and Quality of Education in England Inquiry. We know there will be many diverse answers to the question, ‘what should the purpose of education be?’, and we certainly don’t expect to find a single, definitive one. But we do want to stimulate public debate and to try and get a clearer overview of the purposes of our education system. Too often policymakers of all political stripes embark on major educational reforms without appearing to engage, or at least acknowledge, the fundamental question of what the purpose of education should be. The two issues are of course interlinked – our young people are those most supportive of remaining members of the European Union – a recent poll of students showed a 3 to 1 majority in favour of our continued membership and we should not forget the opportunities, particularly since the fall of the Iron Curtain, that the European Union has offered young people to study, work and travel across the continent. You can get involved in the work of the Education Select Committee by commenting on our online forum, by submitting formal evidence, or by tweeting to the @CommonsEd account using #EduPurpose. Do keep an eye on
our website at www.parliament.uk for the evidence sessions and inquiries taking place this year. Neil Carmichael is the Member of Parliament for Stroud and Chair of the Education Select Committee. Contact Neil at neil.carmichael.mp @parliament.uk or his constituency office on 01453 751 572.
Geoffrey Clifton-Brown
GEOFFREY CLIFTON-BROWN, MP FOR COTSWOLDS I hope everyone’s batteries are recharged ready to deal with the challenges that this year will inevitably bring. Just before Christmas I dropped into the Cirencester sorting office to thank all of our postmen and women for working so hard on our behalf to deliver all of our cards and packages in time for Christmas. Parliament resumed recently and I was invited with a small group of colleagues to meet the Prime Minister, David
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Style Politics country's woodland ever since. Trees in urban areas are particularly precious. As well as promoting biodiversity, they can even play an important role in natural flood prevention. That’s of course particularly relevant given the devastating flooding seen across the country recently. www.alexchalk.com
Alex Chalk
Cameron, at 10 Downing Street. We discussed likely topics, which will occur during the year: these inevitably included the EU referendum, migration, Syria and the Middle East, level of benefits, housing, pensions and the NHS. Combining my Chairmanship of the All-Party Group on Trade and Investment, I took one of the Cotswolds’ highly successful mediumsized business called La Hacienda to meet Lord Maude, our new Trade Minister. The purpose of meeting was to enable founding brothers Simon and John Goodwin and their export promotion director, Mike Darlington, to explain to the Minister how they could expand their already thriving export business. They are based on the Aston Down Airfield and sell a wonderful range of innovative barbecue equipment. The National House Building Council provides prizes for builders both large and small who build exceptional quality houses. I was very pleased to attend a ceremony where the NHBC presented the South West Regional award to Quarrystone Homes (Cotswold) Ltd in Cirencester for their School Lane development in Edgeworth. Welldesigned houses are the hallmark of the Cotswolds, so many congratulations to them! Finally, my HS2 Committee commitments took me to Slough where amongst other things I saw the site for the end of the new Western Rail Access to Heathrow project. This is an important new railway line from Reading to Slough via Heathrow. When completed in 2021 this will enable train travel from the Cotswolds to Heathrow to be far easier and quicker. There will be more to report next month when normal constituency meetings will have resumed. www.geoffreycliftonbrown.co.uk
ALEX CHALK, MP FOR CHELTENHAM February can be a tough month. The weather’s often a bit bleak, waistlines may not have recovered from the Christmas excesses and the summer holidays seem a long way away. But what February also brings is the promise of spring around the corner. As the days lengthen, it means more opportunity to get out from behind our iPhones and laptops and into the great outdoors. In an increasingly frazzled world, looking after mind and body means making time, with friends and family, to appreciate and enjoy our green spaces. We’re lucky here in Cheltenham to have some wonderful ‘green lungs’. From historic Pittville Park to Sandford Park and Imperial Gardens, we have some special and unique green spaces. My personal favourite is Hatherley Park, with its lake and wide-open spaces. It’s also got a basketball court, a sport I’ve enjoyed since I was a teenager. So with half-term fast approaching, these parks present the perfect – and economical! – place to entertain the kids. Parks also provide a good opportunity to introduce children to the importance of our environment and its biodiversity. It’s one of the reasons why I am supporting a new Woodland Trust initiative that is being targeted at primary schools across Cheltenham. It’s giving children the chance to plant trees – for free – to help them connect with nature and improve their local area. Children can look forward to planting a copse or hedge, which can provide a wild harvest, or a burst of year round colour. The scheme presents a great opportunity to build a lifelong interest in the natural world. I remember as a child planting an oak tree at my school after the devastating Great Storm of 1987 and I have felt a deep appreciation for our
Laurence Robertson
LAURENCE ROBERTSON, MP FOR TEWKESBURY Although some time has passed, the images of the flooding in the North of England remains very much in our minds and, although we escaped the worst of the weather in this area, we wouldn’t have needed it to rain much more for us to have problems as well. That’s why I continue to raise matters relating to flooding with the government. I would like to see a much stronger, more effective Environment Agency in place which can work in a more cohesive manner towards preventing flooding in the first place and to see an end to building in areas which not only might flood themselves but the development of which might cause other areas to flood. I am continuing to work with local people and agencies to try to help improve matters in these respects. The new Flood Re insurance scheme comes into force this April. This will guarantee that affordable insurance against flooding is available to everyone, providing their houses were built before 2009. This date was agreed as it would be some time after the terrible floods in 2007 and it works on the assumption that lessons would have been learnt by planners and that no houses would be built in vulnerable areas after that date. I think the theory is ahead of the practice in some cases and this is perhaps something we need to consider again but it is a big improvement. www.laurencerobertsonmp.com COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 83
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Local
National
International
Pre- and postnuptial agreements Sadly the start of a new year brings with it stories of family breakdown and divorce. This year has been no exception, with both Gary Lineker and Cheryl Versini-Fernandez confi rming that they are getting divorced. We hope that, when it happens, both parties are at the same emotional stage of divorce, accepting the marriage is over and focusing on how to move forward. Whilst Gary and Danielle Lineker appear united; it is not yet clear whether Cheryl and Jean-Bernard Versini-Fernandez are. We do know that Cheryl did not sign a prenuptial
between the parties needs to be full and frank.
agreement, as she found the whole concept
The weaker party should not feel pressured into
contrary to her wedding vows; “no ifs and buts�
signing the agreement at short notice and the
as she has been quoted saying. Many may
terms of the agreement need to adequately
agree, as they do seem at odds with the life
provide for the financially weaker party and
commitment marriage implies. They may not be
ensure the needs of any children are met.
romantic, but they are practical and can save
Prenuptial agreements are only of value as long
couples from the emotional and financial cost of
as circumstances do not change significantly
protracted proceedings when the marriage fails,
following marriage and it is good practice to
especially after a short marriage.
review the terms of the agreement after five
Prenuptial agreements are akin to insurance
years or following a significant event, such as
policies - there in case disaster strikes, but usually
having children or receiving an inheritance.
kept undisturbed in the bottom drawer. They
If circumstances have changed, the terms can
are not just for the rich and famous; they are
be reviewed and a postnuptial agreement
available to everyone who wants to preserve pre-
entered into; these arguably have more weight,
acquired assets upon marriage. The request may
because not signing such an agreement does
also come from a third party, such as parents or
not carry with it the threat of a cancelled
trustees trying to ensure assets/gifts are preserved
wedding. Postnuptial agreements are available
for the person they were originally intended for.
to anyone who feels that it is of benefit to be
The law in England recognises both prenuptial
clear what will happen on divorce, regardless of
and postnuptial agreements as decisive
the length of the marriage.
factors in assessing how assets are divided on
So it may be unroma ntic to prepare for the worst
divorce, providing they are well drafted and
but hope for the best, but it won’t leave you
do not put the financially weaker party in a
open to accusations of foolhardiness.
position of real need. If you are considering a prenuptial agreement, here are some key points are needed for it to be binding.
If you would like to discuss whether a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is right for you, contact Andrew Morris on 01242 246456 or
Both parties need independent legal advice
email amorris@hcrlaw.com; he is happy to
on the terms before signing, and disclosure
offer a free hour of initial advice.
Harrison Clark Rickerbys Ltd is authorised and regulated by the SRA
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Protect your future with our expert advice Cheltenham: 01242 851379 www.hcrlaw.com | @HCRlaw With you every step of the way Offi ces at: Birmingham | Cheltenham | Hereford | Thames Valley | Worcester | Wye Valley By appointment: London
2015
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MEET THE HEAD
Bradley Salisbury, Headmaster of Dean Close School Bradley Salisbury was appointed Headmaster of Dean Close School in September 2015, having spent six years at the School as Deputy Head. He says: “The role of Headmaster at Dean Close School cannot be defined as a traditional Head’s job, it is a specific job in the best school that I have worked in. It is specific in that the role allows me to be a teaching Headmaster, a Headmaster who is not constrained by many of the business pressures that can dominate the time of the modern, independent school Principal. With the previous Head, Jonathan Lancashire, taking on the role of Warden and CEO, it has afforded me the freedom to work on my own specialist area of education. Ever since my first day in the classroom in an inner city comprehensive in Bristol and through a wide range of other successful schools as a teacher, Head of Department, Head of Section, Housemaster and Deputy Head, I have developed a deep love of and interest in education. As a father to three girls, all of whom have very different personalities and interests, I am very aware that one size does not fit all; that genetics and upbringing play some part in determining educational success but that there is much that we can do to impact on an individual’s future possibilities. Education is at its best when all parties work together towards a common goal. By all parties I mean pupils, parents and school, all seeking to ensure that the opportunities available, choices made and lessons learnt are shared. Teachers have a great wealth of expertise and experience that can be of great benefit to parents as they guide their charges through some challenging years. Parents have the most intimate knowledge of
their children and for schools to ignore this would be foolhardy. At the end of the day though, by the time the pupils arrive at their senior school they should increasingly be taking responsibility for their own decision-making and playing the most active part, whilst being wise enough to have listened to the advice and guidance from all those around them. As a Headmaster, one issue I find dominating this generation of young people is how to handle digital technology. Educational research is increasingly available to us and should be used to inform our approach as we seek to develop a culture of shared responsibility. As teachers and parents we need to engage in a dialogue with those we care for so that they can think through the reality of living life in both the real and online world. Are the deep joys and experiences of the real world being surpassed by the instant feedback of social media? Part of our role must be to help the iGeneration to lead a balanced life. Education takes place in every part of Dean Close, from the classroom to the stage, the muddy field to the concert hall; from the warm words of encouragement to the carefully chosen
rebuke. It is difficult to quantify just why I think the Dean Close is an excellent school but the evidence is our pupils. They are not a typical product or the outcome of a successful branding exercise but have been encouraged to grow through the significant resources at their disposal, the time and expertise of the teachers and the care and support of their parents, each one their own person. When you are leading such a community as Dean Close, the responsibility is significant; but when that community is committed to the same goals, it becomes both a privilege and a joy.” Dean Close School will hold its next Open Morning on Saturday 5th March, where Bradley Salisbury will give a presentation. Everyone is welcome to attend and if you would like to know more, please contact the Registrar on 01242 258044 or email registrar@deanclose.org.uk. Full details can also be found on the school website.
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Style Competition COMPETITION
WIN ONE OF FIVE £100 VOUCHERS TO SPEND AT DWELL’S NEW OXFORD STORE
If you’re planning on giving your home an update in 2016, pop into dwell’s new store in Oxford and peruse their collection of chic contemporary furniture. Conveniently situated on Botley Road, Oxford, the new store is set to become the go-to store for those in the area who are looking for
contemporary, stylish home furnishings and accessories. Leonora Ivan, the Oxford store manager, said, “We believe that stylish, contemporary design can be affordable and we want to show how dwell can make it easy for customers to achieve the interior look and lifestyle they desire.”
For your chance to win one of five a £100 vouchers, simply email your name and contact details to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk with DWELL in the subject field. Competition closes on 29th February, 2016 and there is no cash prize alternative.
dwell 1 Hartwell Grange, Botley Road, Oxford, OX2 0HD www.dwell.co.uk 88 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
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Balance of Work and Play Paddy Moss, the Head of Dean Close Prep School, discusses the importance of a rounded education I would like to hazard a guess that a fair number of recently made New Year’s resolutions in some way reflect an all too familiar balancing act. As the old adage goes, ‘life is like riding a bicycle, to keep your balance, you must keep moving’. In this annual attempt to review our own demands of work and life we are often reminded of the importance of retaining a healthy and sustainable equilibrium. An increase in physical exercise, as well as quality ‘down time’, is seen to provide the impetus to be more productive in the workplace, where there is a necessity to ‘work smarter, not harder’. Less is often thought to offer more and I believe that the same can be said within a child’s experience at school. In a world where parents can become preoccupied with the strictly measurable performances of their child at school and where the value of school life is sometimes equated to the number of hours spent in the classroom, it can become all too easy for young people to be channelled into a model where work outweighs play. However, a glance through a school prospectus or annual school magazine, may give the impression that in many schools the ‘work and play’ balance is firmly in favour of the ‘non-academic’ activities that take place. Pupils are shown relishing a plethora of sporting, musical and dramatic activities, with little sign of the core business, the class-based subject teaching, taking place. Surely with a child’s success at school often measured simply through their examination grades this is a risky imbalance? I would disagree, giving two welldefined and often-stated reasons. The first is the importance of the ‘education’ that takes place in the co-curricular activities, which not only provide the rounded education which so many schools claim to offer but also enhance the more traditional learning too.
Leadership skills, selfdiscipline, increased confidence, teamwork and tolerance are some of the many qualities that are enhanced through playing team sports, or taking part in school drama productions or musical ensembles. These are to be cherished as valuable components of a child’s education and contribute to a young person’s development and ability to cope with the varied demands of an adult working life. The second is the often recited and largely corroborated mantra that ‘happy children learn’. Schools are places where children should start each day with a spring in their step, ready and willing to be involved in challenges and fun, both in and out of the classroom. For many youngsters it is the opportunities beyond the typical timetabled lessons which make their school days so enjoyable and memorable. As we are probably all aware, if children are enjoying themselves and happy, they are more conducive to learn. Down-time and opportunities for play permit youngsters to develop socially and emotionally as well as, rather paradoxically research shows, improving their concentration. In
early childhood, school success often depends on a child’s ability to interact positively with their peers and with adults. Giving children the opportunity to make mistakes in a safe environment, allows them to get things wrong and learn from the experience. Since, it is widely recognised that a child’s ‘emotional health and well-being influences their cognitive development and learning, as well as their physical and social health and their mental wellbeing in adulthood’ (Public Health England, ‘Promoting children and young people’s emotional health and well-being’, March 2015), there is an increasing appreciation amongst educationalists of the importance of imparting attitudes of emotional health and well-being amongst young pupils – of re-focusing the balance. We need to provide pupils with the strategies and resilience to cope with anxieties and pressures of modern day life. Getting the balance right at an early age sets in place life patterns and positive work habits that will hopefully last longer than the average New Year’s resolution. www.deanclose.org.uk
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A Rare Breed in the Marketing Industry Emma Logan met with Kat Shayler, Managing Director of SharpFox Marketing Tell us a about your background? I was born in Cheltenham and in later years rocked the pea-green uniform of Cheltenham Ladies College before gaining a degree in Business and Marketing in Bristol. After that I moved to London as it seemed the natural progression and I worked for an energy watchdog whilst I racked my brains thinking what it was I wanted to do with my newly earned degree! I applied for a P.A. role in a top advertising agency (Bartle Bogle and Hegarty) and was so blown away by the culture that I stayed there for 8 years working my way up the ladder on accounts such as Baileys (yes, lots of free tipples), KFC (lots of free chicken) and British Airways (sadly no free flights). I then moved on to be Marketing Director of a well known chain of luxury bars and restaurants but after 5 years I had a real hankering to go back to a less frenetic pace of life, so moved back to the Cotswolds. How did SHARPFOX come about? I had a momentary flash of inspiration (I get them occasionally!) when I realized that I wanted to be my own boss. I saw a gap in the Cheltenham marketplace for a marketing agency that could offer help to smaller businesses and start-ups without charging them big-agency prices. Are you a full service Marketing provider? In a word, yes. We start from the bottom, looking at a businesses brand (or lack thereof), honing and refining it and then we establish how we can make the most amount of ‘noise’ about it and convert this into sales. We’re quite a rare breed in that we offer pretty much everything under one roof, from logo design to websites, from marketing strategy to social media. Although we work with larger companies, my passion has always been working with start-ups. I usually find 90 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
that people just starting out on their business journey are the most enjoyable to work with, as they have a huge amount of passion about what they are doing and often just need some help with how to steer this passion in the right direction.
What are some of the more challenging projects you have worked on recently? I love a challenge – I thrive on the adrenaline of a fast-paced project and I would probably say that the Beards Jewellers Diamond Rush definitely falls into the ‘fast-paced’ category and takes a lot of organization. It’s really inspiring to me how much Beards gives back to the local community; they’ve raised thousands for Maggie’s Cancer Care Centre in Cheltenham and of course, it’s an event that has put them on the map nationally. We also work with The Big Feastival (Jamie Oliver’s food and music festival at Alex James’ farm in Kingham), which involves a lot of logistical planning in the three months leading up to the event as we promote them across the Cotswolds, Oxfordshire, Bath and Bristol. It’s such great fun and they are such a fab bunch of people it doesn’t feel like work!
Do you also organise client events and launches for example and coordinate guest lists introducing your own personal network to a business? I’m fortunate in that having been around this area for so long I have made some great contacts and I love introducing these contacts to the right opportunities. We love organizing events for clients and now have a great roster of companies that we put together for parties and
other functions. This year’s finds have been the incredible LoveBites catering and Canapé to Cake catering – their canapés are so out-ofthis-world that I’m almost reluctant to mention either of them as they’ll be too booked up to cater for our events! I’m a firm believer in shouting about good people from the rooftops.
What would be your top tip for new businesses starting out that don’t know what their marketing strategy should consist of ? Call us on 0333 200 1404.
Who are your existing clients and what type of companies would you like to work with in the future? Our client list is varied – from jewellers to festivals, estate agents to equestrian events. I’m really passionate about nutrition and lifestyle so I would love to add a health brand to our client roster. What are the key steps that a new client needs to understand in strengthening its brand? Distinguish yourself from your competition. If you focus on your strengths as opposed to your competitors and then market this in a consistent and creative way then there will be no stopping you!
For further information how SharpFox Marketing can help your business, contact: Tel: 0333 200 1404 Email: hello@sharpfox.co.uk www.sharpfox.co.uk
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“Distinguish yourself from your competition. If you focus on your strengths as opposed to your competitors and then market this in a consistent and creative way then there will be no stopping you!”
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Q&A: Factory Pattern Emma Logan spoke to Georgina Thorne, Co-Founder of Factory Pattern, a Digital Design Agency based in Cheltenham Who are the people behind your company and what is your background experience? I always knew I wanted to do something creative and studied art at college. But after being told by my dearest dad that I needed to pick a proper career (because doing an art degree isn’t going to get me a job), I chose to study interior design; a fair compromise I thought and it turns out I was pretty good at it! I completed my degree in Interior Architecture at Hereford University and went on to work for a commercial interior development company. I loved it and it wasn’t long until I was managing my own projects and team of installers. I had a couple of similar jobs after that but when the time came I was a perfect fit for Factory Pattern. Andy (the co-founder) is the true heart of the company; he literally lives all things design, it’s in his blood. He knew he wanted to be a designer at an early age and got his degree in graphic design at Swindon University. He’s worked his way through a number of agencies over the years starting out as junior art worker and working up to senior designer. His passion for design and thirst for knowledge on the subject have lead him to work on some great projects and even lecture on the subject at Cheltenham University.
When and how did the concept first come to mind to create your agency? Well, Factory Pattern is a virtue of necessity really. In 2009 I fell pregnant with our first boy and in the same month Andy was made redundant. Not the best combination of life events but we saw this as an opportunity (fear’s a pretty great motivator!) and the plan was to use the next 9 months to build a business. If it didn’t work out by the time I got to maternity leave, Andy would have to get another job. Andy started working from home and by the time Elijah was born he was ready to find an office, and he got busier every month. So much so, I could leave my job and work with him. And here we are; the rest is history I guess. What are your specific goals for the business? Our goal is to change the way websites are made by centring the design round the needs of real people. We put ourselves in other people’s shoes, feel what they’re feeling, ask what they’re asking, gain insights and design accordingly - to create an engaging online experience. We use an iterative process when it comes to designing websites. This means we get versions of a design in front of real people early in the process, gain real objective feedback and use the feedback to iterate and improve design. This cycle runs a few times until we get a fool proof design. Doing this means we explore the possibilities of what could be and create desired outcomes that truly benefit our clients. Which markets do you serve? We work with a wide variety of B2B and B2C clients locally and internationally but retail, e-commerce, hospitality, food and drink are areas where we make the most difference. We have the most impact in this area because of the transactional nature of
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these businesses. We have tools and methods in place that follow a transaction from beginning to end. With these insights we adapt and refine the transaction process to continually increase the conversion rate.
From where do you see your growth potential coming? The UX (user experience) design work we do is definitely making a big impact. Business owners are becoming more aware now that investing in a website which is designed around the needs of its user makes positive impact on their bottom line. We are making websites work much harder and more efficiently so our clients see a real return on investment. We love the fact that we can prove our design makes our client’s money, this is really important to our business and to us personally as designers. Who currently uses your services? A few of our clients include: Hobbs House Bakery Edit Suits CGT Lettings Badminton England MIAC Analytics London and New York Shadowplay The Pod Company The list goes on…
Do your clients have to be large companies or do you work with SMEs too? We work with both. Being a small company ourselves, we can relate to the challenges other SMEs face and can be flexible in our approach and that flexibility pays off with larger companies too because we’re able to move on things a lot quicker than bigger agencies. Can you explain more what User Experience design does? User experience design is about creating an engaging experience that meets the needs of your customers (users). We
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Have you any testimonials from existing clients you can share with us?
MIAC TESTIMONIAL
“It’s clear Factory Pattern takes deep pride in their work. They embraced the hard topic of financial technology and evolved our brand messaging and imagery immensely—our site is now completely intuitive. They’ve made it incredibly easy to work together over 2 continents (US & UK)—always showing initiative, keeping the project moving swiftly, and giving us the flexibility to grow the site with our business. MIAC Analytics - New York.” Are you a regional company or do you serve clients on a national/ global basis? All of the above. We have clients in London, Bristol, at home in Cheltenham and even 2 clients in New York. gain valuable customer insights from our user research process, which means we can be very confident that your design is actually better and not just performing better, due to random chance. How do you make the web more human? We have a 3-step approach, which we have termed, ‘The 3 E’s’ (no, they’re not a 60s soul group). The 3 E’s are: Empathise, Evaluate, Evolve. First of all we Empathise with people (or users) that are going to use the website. We consider the user’s age, sex, location, how they use the website and more. Once we have a solid understanding of the user we can then Evaluate. Evaluating is about using the data we gather about our users, then designing an iteration or version of a design. The design has both our creative flair and includes all the necessary elements that a user needs to complete a task. For example, if the task is to fill out a form, how can the design help them to do this? We remove anything that’s unnecessary and guide them through the process of using a form from simple
labelling through to helpful error message. You wouldn’t believe how hard it is to get people to fill out forms online! The 3rd part of the process is to Evolve. Once we’ve empathised and evaluated, we come to a conclusive design to launch with. No website design is perfect but we’re confident that by using the 3 E’s, we can launch with a more fool proof design, learn from real users and develop (evolve) the design over time to constantly improve our clients websites… Then jump for joy when we get it right - this is a very important part of the process! The 3 E’s approach is not only applied to the design we create but also our business strategy. We believe that we can use this design thinking as a strategy and make business more successful. Do you see recruitment growth in your business? Yes, we’re on the lookout for an office administrator to support the team in all administrative tasks and help to ensure business objectives are covered. Also, they'll provide excellent customer service via phone and email.
In the past few months what has been the biggest decision you have made that has influenced your business? Making the change to being a user experience design agency. We’ve always focused on being a digital agency but now we’re refining our approach and specialising in user experience design which involves building a new user testing lab, where we can observe how real people use websites and gain deeper insights so that our design is always improving and in turn our client’s bottom lines. What’s next for Factory Pattern? We are really excited to be hosting a series of creative master classes at Factory Pattern starting in March 2016 that are designed to inspire and change the way you think about websites. We’ve got some very exciting speakers on board, so watch this space! To find out more, visit www.factorypattern.co.uk/talesfromthe factoryfloor.co.uk
To find out what Factory Pattern could do for your website, visit www.factorypattern.co.uk or call 01242 263468.
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WINING
& DINING
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LOWER S L AUG HTER M A NOR I S C H A NG ING . . .
THE ENTIRE GROUND
Finest Chinese Restaurant In Warwickshire
FLOOR OF THE HOTEL WILL BE RENOVATED TO INTRODUCE A NEW, CONTEMPORARY COUNTRYSIDE CONCEPT. WE WILL BE CLOSED FROM 2 ND JANUARY, REOPENING 12 TH MARCH 2016.
Open Lunch & Dinner Monday – Saturday
TO FIND OUT MOR E, PLE ASE VISIT W W W. LOWERSL AUGHTER .CO.UK
LOW ER S L AU G H T ER , G LO U C E S T ER S H I R E , G L 5 4 2 H P
Bath Place, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire CV31 3BP
Tel : 01926-313030 Web : www.emperorsrestaurant.co.uk 96 FEBRUARY 2016 COTSWOLD STYLE
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A Wild Valentine Shelle Duffin cooks the way to the heart with a Venison Fillet Steak ebruary is a month of celebration for all the good things still yet to come in 2016. For starters, those of you who made it through ‘Dry January’ (and very well done if you managed to power through), its time to toast your triumph and breadth of willpower with your favourite tipple back in hand - bottoms up! And for those who didn’t, let’s be honest, who’s ever going to know? Recycle the evidence and ring out a toast anyway as this month’s a goodie. Ease off the January diets and let’s get flipping some culinary magic in the
F
Pan-fried venison fillet steak with wild mushrooms served with a sloe gin and blackberry sauce This is a simple dish to assemble and gives off a real ‘wow factor’ when served. It also showcases four rather good (and also very delicious) singletons on one plate - all inspired, sourced and foraged from woods and fields across The Cotswolds. (Cook’s note ~ foraging is not included in this recipe... Local venison can be sourced from your butcher, or most supermarkets now stock it at their meat counter) Serves 2 (double/triple/quadruple quantities for larger parties)
Ingredients: 2 x 6-8oz venison fillet steaks 1 garlic clove, crushed 8 juniper berries, slightly crushed A bunch of fresh thyme, stalks removed 1 shallot or 1 small red onion, finely chopped 100g wild mushrooms
kitchen whether it’s in preparation for Shrove Tuesday or in jest to woo that special someone into being your Valentine. It’s a well known fact that the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, however as romantic as that sounds, whoever came up with the concept clearly forgot that with Adam, came Eve. So I’m taking this opportunity to speak for the ladies out there that a good plate of food often sways us too gentlemen take note! Flowers and chocolates or a tasteful pair of pants; lovely as they all are don’t always cut it.
The way to really impress a girl is by coming up trumps in the kitchen… So this is how we’re going to do it... Aprons on and a glass of wine in hand (tried and tested before serving at table is generally recommended...) and let’s take to the stove. Whether you’re cooking for that special person in your life or several of them around a table of fellow singletons, let’s turn on their tastebuds, win over their heart(s) and gain you a few extra brownie points to see you through until next year with a real showstopper of a dish.
100ml sloe gin 125ml beef stock ½ tsp ground cinnamon 50g butter Olive oil Salt and pepper
Method: • Rub the venison steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. • Add a little more olive oil into a pan and add the garlic, onions and juniper berries, cooking gently for a few minutes until they begin to brown. • On a medium to high heat, add the venison steaks and fry for 3-4 minutes each side (Cook’s note ~ you can cook for longer if you prefer your steak well-done, however with venison, anything more than medium can make it quite tough and chewy). • Remove the steaks from the pan, leaving the onion mixture for the sauce and place them to one side to rest, keeping them covered so they stay warm. • To make the sauce, first add a little more olive oil to the same pan used to cook the venison and brown off the mushrooms with the thyme for a minute or two. • Pour in the sloe gin and stock and
gently simmer for 5 minutes until the volume begins to reduce. • Stir the blackberries and cinnamon and cook for a further few minutes until they begin to soften. • Add the butter to thicken the sauce and season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve with mashed potatoes, root vegetables or celeriac, and roasted chantenay carrots with a honey glaze. Position the steak on top of your chosen mash, criss-cross the carrots and mushrooms around the plate and drizzle the sauce with the blackberries in between.
For more recipe ideas, reviews and articles, check out my blog – myboiledeggsandsoldiers@blogspot.com; or follow me on Twitter – @Shelle_Duffin, Instagram – shelleduffin, Pinterest – shelleduffin
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Teddington Stores is a food hall with a difference. Our ethos is to sell the very best of local food in a pleasant and stress-free environment. Come and relax, have a coffee, a snack, or one of our lovely pastries and gather your thoughts for your shopping list. We have fabulous bread from the finest French baker in the Cotswolds, La Parisienne, and their delicious tarts and pastries (all available to order for that dinner party). We have a great range of cheeses and accompaniments, together with an excellent range of smoked fish and poultry from the Severn & Wye Smokery. We like to know where our meat has come from, so we buy our meat from Adeys Farm and their Woodchester Meat Company (near Stroud), and the lovely Overbury Lamb from just next door. We have a great range of grocery ingredients as well as superb quality frozen fish from Highland Bay (a little further afield in Scotland). You’ll be impressed by our selection of international wines, local spirits and liqueurs, ciders and ales.
Come and join us for our
PRODUCERS’ DAY
ON SATURDAY 27th FEBRUARY
It’s like a farmers’ market all under one roof! It’s a great opportunity to talk to the producers themselves about their produce – the hard work and passion that goes into the food we sell never fails to impress. We will have tasting with Chase Distillery, the Outdoor Pig Company, Adeys Farm, Croome Chese, Glastonbury Cheese, Simply Seasonal preserves and chutneys, Bay Tree, Woodland Yoghurts, Cotswold Dairy, Cotswold Gold Oils to name a few.
Teddington Hands (Roundabout), Evesham Road, Teddington Glos GL20 8NE (Turn in behind the Fuel Station)
01386 725400 | www.teddingtonstores.co.uk
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R&R A monthly column exploring the perfect location to clear your head and spend quality time with the ‘lovely one’ in your life This month Angela Chancellor reviews No. 131 in Cheltenham Cheltenham is arguably the most elegant town in the Cotswolds, so when I was asked to visit for Cotswold Style I didn't hesitate. Imagine my delight when the trip was to be sweetened by a stay at the No.131. Did I um and ah, loudly consult my diary feigning numerous commitments and a busy lifestyle (in January...as if!) or beg a moments consideration. Not likely, I am not sure how our dear editor had intended to finish her sentence because I was squealing yes, yes, YES down the phone like a six year old that had just been offered a trip to Disneyland. Who in their right mind would turn down an opportunity to research cocktails and culinary delights, all in the name of 'work' without having to worry about babysitters or a taxi home. If you haven't been to Cheltenham for a while you might ask yourself how one could possibly improve on the attractive Regency centre of this elegant spa town but the people behind No. 131 have achieved just that. The terrace in front of this Georgian villa, which for many sad years previously languished as offices, has been transformed into an arcadian delight. Generously dotted with trees and topiary and prettily lit just so. It certainly sets a promising scene for your arrival and I can already picture myself having lovely future lunches outside in the summer, with a glass of chilled rose in hand, imagining myself in the south of France. In through the front door and you feel like you are crossing the threshold of a smart private club. The reception area is dinky and unpretentious, manned by friendly young staff, neatly tucked into the corner and leaving plenty of room for all the fun stuff. Good decision in my book. Now, to decide on where to start our little adventure? To the left is the enormous sitting room, which runs the entire depth of the building and is furnished with a quirky mix of antiques, large comfy chairs and sofas and low
tables covered in a great selection of books and magazines. Easy choice; that’s where I will be reading my paper in the morning after breakfast. It is a Friday night and the cocktails are calling to me, so it is a quick dash to our room to put on something a bit more funky and some heels before we head down to the Crazy Eights to let the imbibings begin. When in Regency a Regency Fizz was perfect to get me off to a good start. The bar was just the right side of buzzy and populated with a mix of guests and locals, generally smart casual with a hint of glamour. The drinks menu is well appointed to say the least and I could happily spend a whole week sampling my way through it. The bar blends into the downstairs dining area with a cheeky side of pool room and a couple of private dining options which I have already earmarked for my next birthday celebration. Time to head upstairs to the main dining room to study the menu. Decisions, decisions... why not have half a dozen Portland Pearl Oysters to aide concentration and decisiveness (he's clever that husband of mine!). Despite the temptations of probably at least a dozen cuts of beef crying 'pick me' from prime position in the middle of the menu, all vying for our attention, we finally settled on tuna tartare with avocado, sesame & soy, followed by some haunch of fallow buck for me and
scallops followed by crab for the clever husband, all delicious and washed down perfectly with a bottle of the house fizz. The grand finale of the evening was our delightfully decorated room upstairs. Attention is often lavishly spent on decorating the communal areas of a hotel, with the bedrooms having to make do with all the lesser bits of kit. No poor relations in this gaff. All 11 bedrooms are individually decorated with great attention to detail. If I had to pick one thing that was not fab, it would be that our front facing room wasn’t very quiet but quite honestly I was expecting that in a town centre hotel with a fun bar on a Friday night. This is a fun, funky place and if you are looking for peace and tranquility you don’t go seeking it where the nightlife is happening. Earplugs are provided with the complimentary toiletries, if you sleep like the princess on the pea use them and enjoy your stay. PS. Warning: You may be tempted to re-decorate upon returning home. No. 131 131 Promenade, Cheltenham GL50 1NW Tel: 01242 822939 www.no131.com
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We are a family run, freehold public house dedicated to the finest drink, food and service But don’t take our word for it, please come and try for yourself
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The Royal Oak has had a rich and varied history since it’s initial construction in 1628. From our very first viewing we could immediately see the potential and decided that this beautiful, historic pub deserved more. My family and I purchased the freehold in 2015 with a vision to breathe new life into an otherwise neglected public house. We aim to create space for exquisite dining, an ale to suit every palate and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for both locals and visitors alike. Our son is an extremely accomplished chef who has trained at some of the most established hotels up and down the country. He is now bringing his 3 rosette knowledge to the table and along with his brigade, has put together a menu fit for both fine dining connoisseurs and classic pub food lovers.
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The Royal Oak | Gloucester Road | Andoversford | Gloucestershire | GL54 4HR
Tel: 01242 821 426 | www.theroyaloakcotswolds.co.uk
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Style Views
Unbelievable! Sandra Paul is drinking in the new health warnings tarting a new year is hard enough without the barrage of ‘information’ and ‘guidance’ that has been published already by those in charge of the public’s health. Generally, most of us begin January with a set of resolutions. Some, we honestly believe we might try to maintain for the whole year and other resolutions, such as getting up an hour earlier to go for a run - judging by the evidence, tend not to last beyond the first few weeks. ‘Dry January’ used to fit neatly into this period of personal reflection and has been fashionable for years. For many of my peers, it has been used as a way to demonstrate that they are not functioning alcoholics. I have never attempted a dry January because I don’t drink every day and when I do, I try and drink at least one glass of red wine (along with everything else). Because it is healthy – at least that is what we’ve been told all these years. However, those in charge have decided to make headlines at the worst possible time, by telling me ANY amount of alcohol is BAD. Even one glass of wine a day can put you at risk of cancer, apparently. Britain’s Chief Medical Officer, Dame Sally Davies, at the start of the year, rang the Doomsday deathknell as she announced that maximum advised alcohol limits have now been reduced sharply. Men’s maximum weekly limits are being reduced from 21 units to 14, in line with women’s, while everyone is advised to take ‘several days’ off drinking to let their bodies recover. In an interview for Good Morning Britain, Dame Sally actually said drinking no alcohol is best and alcohol probably doesn’t protect the heart, as has been previously claimed. The basic message is that alcohol is a danger to health, however little you drink. “There is no safe level of drinking,” says Dame Sally. I do understand that we are at risk of cancers of the mouth, throat and breast and the risk increases with any amount
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drunk on a more regular basis. The problems of cheap alcohol and binge drinking should also not be trivialised. However, with this debate I hold my hands up and admit as unbelievable as it may seem, I’m with Nigel Farage (for once). UKIP’s leader gave a typical response to the latest initiative to interfere in our personal lives. Mr. Farage told LBC Radio: “I think what we ought to have a mass protest against this form of ‘nannying’ and we should all come out at lunch and have a glass of something. Do what you enjoy.” Having established I’m not a fan of state interference, I must confess to being on the nanny’s side with regard to the debate about sugar. The latest research showed that people who consume sugary drinks are more likely to develop fat that becomes wrapped around their internal organs. This increases the risk of heart disease and triggers insulin resistance, a major cause of Type 2 diabetes. This is just the latest in a long line of published research that proves sugar is the hidden killer. I’m happy the Government is apparently reviewing the issue of a sugar-tax. Bring it on, I say. More than a third of children’s sugar intake now comes from sugary drinks and Dame Sally emerged again to challenge food companies to change their recipes and slash TV
advertising or face a sugar tax. Dame Sally pointed out that the Mexican government brought in a ten per cent tax on fizzy drinks in 2014 as it headed towards becoming the fattest country in the world - and sales have dropped by 12 per cent. England began to enforce a 5p charge on all plastic bags started in October this has already led to an 80 per cent monthly reduction in the numbers taken home by shoppers. So it seems the evidence points to raising prices in order to change habits. But, just to confuse things, scientists published more research (I love research) the same week with the amazing news that they have discovered an enzyme that can ‘zap’ excess sugar from the body so it cannot be stored as fat. The ‘zap’ enzyme could offer hope for a treatment for obesity and they said diabetics who are unable to remove sugar from their bodies, may also benefit. So, presumably, the Prime Minster should wait a minute before he sticks a load of tax on junk food because we will be able to ‘zap’ obesity away at some point? Anyway, my head is reeling with the amount of research I have absorbed so I’m off to the wine bar for a glass of tap water as I guess fizzy water is off the menu too? Sandra@sandrapaulcoms.com
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Style Competition COMPETITION
WIN £300 WORTH OF RAGING BULL CLOTHING With Six Nations fever about to hit our shores, there could not be a better time for Phil Vickery's rugby brand, Raging Bull, to launch their SS16 collection. To mark the launch we will be giving one lucky reader the chance to kit themselves out in a fresh, new look for the season. Raging Bull is well known for its top quality and smart wearable designs and the prize winner can select from items such as crisp cotton shirts,
linen jackets, cotton knitwear, polo shirts, gilets and swimshorts. Another plus point is the generous range of sizing which runs from Small to 6XL. Find the range at Cavendish House, Cheltenham or online www.ragingbull.co.uk
Email your answers to the following questions to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk inserting Raging Bull in the subject field. Please don’t forget to include your name and address plus daytime telephone contact number.
Q. Who won last year’s Six Nations title? Q. Which department store in Cheltenham stocks Raging Bull? Competition closes on 29th February, 2016 and there is no cash prize alternative.
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E N T E R TA I N M E N T M OTO R I N G & S P O RT Specialists in Pothole Damage
01684 291 900
www.ReinventingTheWheel.co.uk
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Style Fitness
The Alternative to Toast Cotswold Style’s Fitness Expert Luciano Kydd, shares some delicious recipes for a healthy breakfast Seeing it’s the month of love, I would like to share 3 of my favourite breakfast ideas with you if you’re bored of the same old toast or cereals in the morning and always rushing to start your day, then feeling hungry by the time you get to the office doors. Each of these recipe takes anywhere from 510mins to prepare, plus are healthy and include all your macronutrients of fats, carbs and protein. They are ideal for individuals who are looking to lose some body fat or trying to increase muscle mass.
Pro-oats recipe (oats with protein powder) Ingredients 100g oats 200ml milk (dairy or non-dairy source depending on individuals tolerance) 1 banana 100g frozen raspberries 50g blueberries 1 tbsp nut butter of your choice 20g chocolate whey or plant protein powder (depending on individual choice)
Summer Fruit Pancakes Ingredients 3 tsps coconut flour 2 medium sized eggs 1 egg yolk ½ tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsps stevia (or use natural sweetener of your choice) 3 tsps organic coconut oil 1 tbsp plain or Greek yoghurt (use dairy free yoghurt if preferred) 100g mixed berries Method • Place the flour, eggs, cinnamon and stevia in a blender and mix until smooth. • Add a bit more flour if the mixture is too thin, or if the mixture is too thick add a drop of cold water or unsweetened almond milk. The aim is to achieve a pourable but not runny consistency. • Heat the coconut oil in a pan over a medium/high heat and then pour in around 50ml of the mixture into the
Method • Soak oats overnight and drain in the morning before cooking. • Cook the oats in milk until smooth and creamy. • Mash or chop the banana into the creamy oats. • Mix in protein powder, nut butter, blueberries and defrosted raspberries on top then eat until your heart desires.
Smoked Salmon and Courgette Fritters Ingredients 1 egg 3 tbsp ground almonds 50g smoked salmon ½ a courgette grated ½ tbsp chopped dill Salt & Pepper Olive oil Small knob of butter
centre of the pan. Move the pan around gently to even out the mixture into a circular shape. When small holes appear in the pancake, turn it over and cook for 1-2 minutes, until golden. • Transfer to a plate. Repeat with the remaining batter. Serve with yoghurt and berries.
Method • Whisk the egg with the ground almonds. • Add the smoked salmon, courgette, dill, salt & pepper to taste. Mix until well combined. • Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a frying pan, add the mixture and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side. Towards the end of cooking, add the butter and spoon over the fritters to glaze. If you’re looking for more recipe options to change or modify your nutritional intake why not grab a copy of my bestselling recipe e-book from here: http://kyddfitness.co.uk/shop/
If you, your friends and family is looking to improve your general health and fitness, maybe drop 1-2 dress sizes or loosen your belt bucket, improve your energy levels for yourself and family, or become more focussed in your business and day jobs, please don't hesitate to get in touch at info@kyddfitness.co.uk or check out my website at www.kyddfitness.co.uk where you can read about individuals results and improvement to their health and fitness.
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In Memory of Alan Lee Betlive Radio’s expert racing pundit Nigel Aplin, pays tribute to the great Racing and Cricket writer who lived in Cheltenham t the end of last year Cheltenham lost a great local character and equally great wordsmith of two of the world's most noble sports, horse racing and cricket. Alan Lee, formerly cricket and latterly racing correspondent of The Times since 1999, died at the age of 61. Lee had been cricket correspondent at The Times for 11 years when his love of horseracing meant he switched sports. He became hugely successful in his new role and was the Horserace Writers & Photographers Association Racing Writer of the Year on three occasions, most recently in 2014 and was shortlisted for last year's John Oaksey Trophy for Racing Reporter of the Year. In 2001, he won the Sports Journalists Association Sports Writer of the Year award. Among his published books were biographies of Richard Johnson, Peter Scudamore, Pat Eddery and Steve Smith Eccles and from the world of cricket, David Gower, David Lloyd and Tony Greig. Rob Wright, racing editor at The Times, paid tribute and said, “Alan was a joy to work with over the past 16 years. He had a God-given talent for writing and I've never known anyone who could match his ability to produce words of such high quality on a breaking story so quickly, so accurately and to perfect length.'' Multiple champion jockey Tony McCoy wrote: “Very sad news to hear about the death of Alan Lee. Highly respected journalist, most of all a really good man.” Tom Clarke was the sports editor at The Times from 1986 to 1993, and later edited The Sporting Life and worked in the racing industry. “Working with Alan Lee was one of the delights of my time as sports editor of The Times. I had admired his work from his days with Reg Hayter’s agency right the way through to his being cricket correspondent of the Mail on Sunday. “When John Woodcock, who had
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Multiple champion jockey Tony McCoy wrote: “Very sad news to hear about the death of Alan Lee. Highly respected journalist, most of all a really good man.”
been cricket correspondent of The Times since 1954, told me in 1988 he wished to retire, we had a queue of leading cricket writers wanting the job. I went for Alan and, with Charles Wilson, the editor, we persuaded John to continue as a kind of emeritus alongside Alan. It was the dream team. Alan loved cricket and cricketers but he did not love the strain of being away from home for long periods on England tours. So he persuaded The Times in 1999 to switch him from writing about cricket to writing about his other great passion, racing. I regard Alan the racing writer as even better than Alan the cricket writer. He campaigned successfully for improved
facilities for racegoers and he pricked the pomposity of many of the people who run racing. He was the best.” Tim Hallissey, the head of sport at The Times, said: “Alan Lee wrote beautifully about cricket and racing. His passion for both sports shone through all his work, reflecting a rare level of understanding and appreciation. He believed that being as close as possible to the sport was the only way to cover it properly, and would travel the length and breadth of the country – always to the less-glamorous courses on the most inhospitable days – to ensure he was telling the true story. All of those who worked with him will know that it was a pleasure and a privilege.” Alan Lee’s brilliant writing will be sorely missed, particularly during this year’s Cheltenham Racing Festival and his laughter and wit, will be missed by all those who knew him. Nigel Aplin, formally Head of Broadcast for William Hill, is founder of www.betliveradio.com, which features a daily digest of betting banter.
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Cheltenham’s Champ Nigel Aplin met with one of Britain’s greatest National Hunt Jockey’s, John Francome ime has been kind to John Francome and so it should be. He is a jockey of another generation but a generation that bred horsemen and gentlemen. In an era when social media drives sporting celebrity, John’s place in equine history is forged by giving bone, blood and true grit. He rode 11 Cheltenham Festival winners between 1975 and 1984 including a Gold Cup on Midnight Court and a Champion Hurdle on Sea Pigeon. Ask him what his favourite Cheltenham memory is and with the integrity and generosity that runs through every broken bone that he sustained, he will tell you that it was watching Jonjo O’Neill win the Gold Cup on Dawn Run. Cheltenham Racecourse is held in high esteem by John: “When I finished riding they were extremely kind to me and have given me two Annual Membership passes ever since. Before Christmas, I received a call from them asking me to be involved in their new advert for The Festival which I was delighted to do. The parody of the John Lewis advert is a great concept; although I’m not sure I love being known as ‘the old man’ on the hill! The production team and I had a great day filming up on Cleeve Hill, keeping warm with the golfers during our breaks, up at Cleeve Hill Golf Club. I am hoping lots of people go to this year’s Festival, I know I’ll be there.” Not surprisingly with his spontaneous wit and repartee, he was also hugely successful as an enormously admired broadcaster and novelist. Some may recall Channel 4's weekly Turf Trivia and in particular, one question that posed how many racecourses contained a part of the human body. Whilst many spotted Liverpool and Chester, John expressed relief that there had never been racing in Scunthorpe. John's autobiography, Born Lucky, charts the fact that John Francome came from humble beginnings. Born in a council house in Mulberry Grove on 13 December 1952, he is the son of a railway fireman, leaving Park Senior High School he with few qualifications to show for it. His business sense, however, had already manifested itself in a scheme to
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“To become a jockey suddenly seemed the natural solution.”
print counterfeit lunch vouchers which he sold to selected classmates at half price. The Francomes had had no connection with horses but a ride on a donkey at Barry Island at the age of six was enough to captivate John. His first successes on horseback were as a showjumper winning the European Championship with the Great Britain team. On leaving school he realised show jumping offered little financial security and he recalls: “To become a jockey suddenly seemed the natural solution.” Despite reservations that he would grow too big, the 16-year-old became an apprentice with top trainer Fred Winter at Lambourn and that, as they say, was that. He rode a total of 1,138 winners, his last being in April 1985. During the course of his career he was Champion Jockey seven times, between 1976 and 1985 becoming the third most successful National Hunt jump jockey of all time after Tony McCoy and Peter Scudamore. He is dubbed the best jockey never to have won the Grand National. After retiring, Francome was awarded the MBE in 1986 for services to racing. One of John’s biggest commitments is to The Injured Jockeys Fund, founded by Lord Oaksey in 1964, from whom John took over as Chairman. The Fund has helped over 1000 jockeys and their
families and has paid out more than £18m in charitable assistance. It part funds on course physios and medical services and also research into improved riding protection equipment for a jockey, which has resulted in a number of improved manufacturing standards being implemented. In 2009 it opened its first rehabilitation centre, Oaksey House, in Lambourn and in April 2015 opened Jack Berry House a second state-of-the-art rehabilitation and fitness centre in Malton for northern based jockeys. Looking ahead to The Festival, John is very keen for us to look out for the young Irish jockey, Jack Kennedy, who as a 13 year old, captured the much sought after accolade of Irish Field National Champion Jockey as well as being crowned overall horse and overall pony champion jockey in the Southern Region. That’s the thing about John Francome, its horsemanship and horses that matter not the betting. Would John change anything in racing? Bet your life he would: “In this day and age I can see no justification for the use of the whip, it has no place in racing.” Fortunately for us, John Francome does. He still looks young enough to ride a Gold Cup Winner and he most certainly doesn’t come from Scunthorpe. COTSWOLD STYLE FEBRUARY 2016 107
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Style Local
Claire in the County GO BANANAS! Claire Thayers is searching for that elusive great love ebruary is a time for us singletons to gather together and share our stories, not of romance and love but of our failed attempts at Internet dating and it’s hilarious! Clicking onto a well-known free site, scrolling through endless photographs, my dear friend flicked through one after another and another…then stopping on one particular photograph of a particularly plain individual, she screamed. “Oh my god that is awful – what a horrid picture and what a name ‘Gob and anus’! What is that all about – what sort of site is this?!” and the rant continued for several minutes. When she eventually drew breath, I had to explain in between convulsions of laughter … “The name he has used is GO BANANAS!” So many of us hold onto the belief that there is a Mr Right out there, that our paths will cross one day and he will be on a white charger and he will be our ‘Mr Darcy’. But in truth where is he... time is running out… I’m not getting any younger and how will I ever find him? Men get better looking with age but for us women…
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The only other option is to set our hats at older men (Jerry Hall has the right idea!). I own up I dated a 40 year old when I was 20 and that was kind of cool then – well travelled, cultured, fine dining and experienced but 20 years older at my age equates to vest and grey, saggy cotton ‘y-fronts’ and crinkly skin. But the dream is why many of us turn to the Internet in the vain hope that we WILL find our sole mate. I own up – I tried, I searched through endless photos, becoming more and more depressed! We all know we shouldn’t choose someone for their looks but I became so sad I immediately decided whether they were worth writing to based on the clothes that they were wearing, the quality of the photo and worse than all… the pattern of the wall paper and if they still had 1980’s boarders - that was it. Move on. I was brave; I met a few in a wine bar, a local pub, even the local park… but what a let down. They were usually 10 years older than the photos they had posted, they had little to say and even though I immediately knew I didn’t want to see them again, I would try my hardest
to make a nice ‘date’ for them, worried that they wouldn’t deal with the rejection but I felt more rejected when they didn’t want my number! What is that all about? Driving home, knowing they were ‘Mr Wrong’ but analysing everything, was it my hair, the wrong coloured lipstick, should I have been more demure… and then the penny dropping, they didn’t want me, because they didn’t want my number. Confidence at an all time low, AGAIN, after trying to rebuild it after a divorce. But take heart, it can work, my dearest friend, knew what she wanted; someone that was financially secure, with property in sunnier climes, soft on the eye and nice. She worked at it, she never gave up. Admittedly she had to kiss a lot of frogs on the way but eventually she HAS found ‘Mr Right’ and they got engaged in Venice just before Christmas – the happy ever after! Where is she now? in the sun, living the dream… As for me… still slogging away, earning a crust, telling everyone how I love my ‘independence’ with no ‘significant’ other – but at night worrying about growing old alone. So what will I be doing this Valentines Day – logging on or drowning my sorrows with a meal for one, and a bucket of wine? I don’t know yet but my cousin found true love in Waitrose (please note, not Aldi) in the chilled ready meals section, so perhaps a quick trip to the supermarket is the answer… and just ‘go bananas’ in the fruit aisle and see if I get noticed! Claire Thayers & Associates, Corporate Social Responsibility, South West www.clairethayers.co.uk
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SNOWDROP WEEKENDS AT COLESBOURNE ESTATE Every weekend in February Enjoy the beautiful displays of snowdrops at the Colesbourne Snowdrop Gardens, between Cheltenham and Cirencester. Afternoon teas available from 1 to 4pm. For further information, call 01242 870264
SNOWDROP TALKS AT PAINSWICK ROCOCO GARDEN Every Wednesday and Friday in February, 12 noon The Rococo Garden has one of the largest naturalistic plantings of snowdrops in the country. Head Gardener Steve Quinton, or a member of his team, will be talking about the history of the Rococo Garden and the variety of snowdrops on show. Takes place on the Bowling Green. Usual entry fee applies www.rococogarden.org.uk
AUDREY HEPBURN: PORTRAITS OF AN ICON, THE WILSON, CHELTENHAM Until Sunday 14th February 2016 Last chance to have this exciting and rare opportunity to view photographic portraits of Audrey Hepburn by some of the 20th century’s most celebrated photographers. The exhibition is a fascinating exploration of Hepburn’s transformation from dancer and chorus girl, to film star and fashion icon, to celebrated and respected humanitarian. Entry: £7 (free for ages 16 and under) www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk PAUL CARRRACK AT CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Monday 1st February, 7.30pm Described by the BBC as ‘the man with the golden voice’, the legendary Sheffield
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with old Style Cotsw
born singer-songwriter and former frontman of Ace, Squeeze and Mike & the Mechanics is back on tour.
Enjoy a mix of new, original songs and classic hits from the man with one of the finest voices in British music. Tickets: from £30.00 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
THE PERFECT MURDER AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Tuesday 2nd to Saturday 6th February Award-wining actors, Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace star on stage together for the very first time, in No.1 best selling author Peter James’ critically acclaimed stage hit - The Perfect Murder. Victor and Joan have been married for a long time. Their marriage has reached crisis point and Victor has decided there is only one way to get his wife out of his life forever, but he’s about to get a nasty surprise. Times and prices vary. www.everymantheatre.org.uk BOOK OF KINGS ART EXHIBITION, THE FOSSE GALLERY IN STOW ON THE WOLD Sunday 7th to Saturday 27th February This solo exhibition is based on Charlie Calder-Potts’ time spent in Afghanistan and Iraq in 2013 when she was an Official War Artist sponsored by the 9th/12th Lancers. The exhibition looks at the history between the Middle East and the West highlighting the longstanding relationship with the Middle East and its influence on our art, philosophy and architecture. www.fossegallery.com
LOVE BITES AT THE WILSON, CHELTENHAM Friday 12th to Sunday 14th February
Celebrate Valentine’s weekend and the last days of Audrey Hepburn: Portraits of an Icon by watching the screening of three wonderful films: 12 February: How to Steal a Million (£9 /£7 students), 13 February: Sabrina £25 (including glass of wine & tapas), 14 February: Breakfast at Tiffany’s £25 (including glass of wine & tapas). www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk FOLK THREE AT CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Friday 12th to Sunday 14th February Folk Three is back for 2016 with three spectacular concerts by some of the finest musicians on the current folk music scene and an afternoon Ceilidh on offer. Folk Three is unmissable for both emerging and established folk music lovers. Blending the contemporary with the traditional, Folk Three is not your usual concert experience! Tickets: Buy a weekend ticket for Folk Three for £62 (£10 saving). www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk
MADAM BUTTERFLY AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Friday 12th to Saturday 13th February This tale of the doomed love of an American naval lieutenant and his young Japanese bride inspired Puccini to write some of his most sublime and beautiful music. Set in Japan at the turn of the century, Madam Butterfly is among the most colourful and exotic of all operas, and from its theme of noble self-sacrifice spring melodies that grips your heart.Times and prices vary. www.everymantheatre.org.uk SEASONAL SOUP AND SNOWDROPS AT FOODWORKS Saturday 13th February, 10am to 1pm We are introducing this exciting new course to make the most of our unique
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Your comprehensive guide to what’s going on in The Cotswolds... with Sara Chardin location on the Colesbourne Estate. During the morning you will make some amazing, seasonal soups to enjoy before strolling through the estate grounds to admire the famous snowdrop display. Course cost includes entry to the snowdrops - a great Valentine’s gift! To book, call 01242 870538. www.foodworkscookeryschool.co.uk THE BIRTHDAY PARTY AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Wednesday 17th to Saturday 20th February By turns, cryptic thriller and macabre comedy, The Birthday Party was Harold Pinter’s first major work and is among the most unusual and absorbing of his plays. London Classic Theatre presents the first significant touring revival of the twenty-first century, promising to bring this ground-breaking classic to fresh and exhilarating life. Times and prices vary. www.everymantheatre.org.uk GILBERT O’SULLIVAN AT CHELTENHAM TOWN HALL Thursday 25th February, 7.30pm
Ben Folds and Ron Sexsmith – while his songs have been covered by Neil Diamond, Rumer and Sarah Vaughan amongst others. Performing with a ten piece band and with his new album Latin Ala G exploring a Latin influence, don’t miss this acclaimed live show. Tickets: £31.00 www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk SPRING WALKS AT HIGHGROVE Friday 26th to Sunday 28th February Join a special Spring Walk in the Royal Gardens at Highgrove and soak up the beauty of the glorious Spring flowers. Enjoy a 75 minute tour of the garden, hosted by one of HRH The Prince of Wales’s expert guides and discover spring blooms found throughout the gardens. Pre-booked ticket entry only. After your tour, lunch will be available in the Orchard Restaurant (lunch is not included in the cost of your entry). www.highgroveshop.com/toursevents.html
CHEF’S COOKS CLUB, THE MONTPELLIER CHAPTER Wednesday 2nd March, 11.30am Each month the club starts at 11.30am with a one-hour demonstration, before a delicious two-course lunch, featuring a dish that has been showcased that day. Booking is essential. This month, we’ll make hot cross buns and show you how to make your own Easter eggs, which can make the perfect Easter gift! 01242 420164 www.montpellierchapter.com WINTER GLOW AT THE GREENWAY HOTEL & SPA Until Thursday 31st March 2016
A global superstar who topped the UK and US charts with the likes of ‘Alone Again (Naturally)’ and ‘Get Down’, Gilbert O’Sullivan is an artist who has never rested on his laurels. His lasting influence can be heard in the music of SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR
Treat yourself to some winter pampering. Includes three hours use of the spa facilities, robe, slippers and towel and a 55-minute treatment. Choose from either a stress alleviating full body massage, a full facial or a relaxing back neck & shoulder massage with an exfoliating facial. Quote JAN16 when booking £55 per person www.thegreenwayhotelandspa.com
FAMILY TORTOISE AND THE HARE AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Wednesday 10th February Following the sell-out successes of Ugly Duckling, Three Little Pigs and Elves & the Shoemaker and the TV adaptations for CBeebies, Northern Ballet bring their magic to Tortoise & the Hare. A perfect opportunity for your little ones to enjoy live ballet, music and theatre. Times and prices vary. www.everymantheatre.org.uk DROP-IN MONOPRINTING AT THE WILSON, CHELTENHAM Tuesday 16th February Have a go at monoprinting and learn about collage effects using a process called China Collé. www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk
THE UGLY DUCKLING, SUBSCRIPTION ROOMS IN STROUD Tuesday 16th February Thingumajig Theatre presents Hans Christian Andersen’s much-loved tale of transformation, brought to you in Thingumajig’s house style - beautiful puppet characters, live music, captivating story-telling and a generous sprinkling of theatre magic. Recommended for ages 5 and up. Times and prices vary www.subscriptionrooms.org.uk WEDNESDAY WORKSHOP AT THE WILSON, CHELTENHAM Wednesday 17th February Trek through time with history-inspired holiday workshops full of artefacts, dressing up and arty activities. This month it’s Regency Day.
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t u o ab Workshops run from 10.30am to 12.30pm and 1.30 to 3.30pm. www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk
CHRIS AND PUI AT THE EVERYMAN THEATRE Friday 19th February See Chris & Pui from ‘Show Me Show Me’ in their new stage show with the toys and characters from their hit TV programme. Catch the Gingerbread Man and oooh and aaah as Miss Mouse attempts to zoom zoom zoom to the cheesy moon in her rocket. With songs, comedy sketches, a dash of magic and heaps of joining in, this is a family show for all ages. Times and prices vary. www.everymantheatre.org.uk
CHARITY DIVAS AT THE DAFFODIL, CHELTENHAM Saturday 6th February Sponsored by Willans LLP and in aid of LINC. A three-course dinner to include a glass of fizz on arrival. Members of Cornwall’s Duchy Opera will perform opera between each course. Tickets: £45. www.lincfund.org THE GREAT BRITISH BREKKIE 2016 FOR WINSTON’S WISH Monday 8th to Sunday 14th February
Winston’s Wish is calling out for families, friends, colleagues and classmates to join them and help raise £50,000 to support bereaved children by hosting a Great British Brekkie. You can
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mull over some muesli, muffins or maple syrup pancakes, or get sizzling with sausages, scrambled eggs or smoked salmon. You could even go glam with a champagne breakfast. The possibilities are endless, but they will all set you up for the day and raise vital funds for bereaved children at the same time. Register for free at www.greatbritishbrekkie.org.uk www.winstonswish.org.uk
DINE WITH WINE AT THE BEEHIVE, CHELTENHAM Wednesday 17th February, 1pm You are warmly invited to attend this special lunch event in aid of the St Stephen’s Roof Appeal – set up to raise vital funds to safeguard and repair the beautiful grade II* listed Church. Enjoy a delicious 3-course lunch with a glass of Pinot Grigio, Merlot or Orange Juice for just £20 per person.
£5 from each lunch will directly go towards the St Stephen’s Roof Appeal. A splendid raffle will also be held. You can download a booking form and menu or contact Natalie Norman, Appeal Administrator, 01242 573 508 or natalienorman2014@gmail.com to book your place. http://saintstephenscheltenham.org. uk/appeal/ MAD DOG – MUSIC FROM SHAKESPEARE’S ENGLAND, ODDINGTON Tuesday 15th March, 7pm An evening of Elizabethan Lute music in aid of the Oddington Churches with Hopkinson Smith, the celebrated early music specialist at Holy Ascension Church. Tickets: £25 and £20 with a £5
reduction for early booking (price includes interval refreshments). Please contact Jennifer Sawyer on 01451 83720 or jenniferesawyer@aol.com to book
SPORT GLOUCESTER RUGBY BUSINESS BREAKFAST, KINGSHOLM STADIUM Wednesday 3rd February, 8 to 9.30am
Join over 100 local businesses for the Business Breakfast in the 1873 Ricoh Lounge. Mix and mingle before being seated for a full English breakfast. Tickets: £18 www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk
GLOUCESTER RUGBY V HARLEQUINS, KINGSHOLM STADIUM Saturday 13th February, kick off 3pm Gloucester Rugby take on Harlequins in the Aviva Premiership. Tickets: from £15 for adults and £5 for juniors if purchased in advance. www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk
GLOUCESTER RUGBY V NEWACASTLE FALCONS, KINGSHOLM STADIUM Saturday 27th February, kick off 3pm Gloucester Rugby take on the Newcastle Falcons in the Aviva Premiership. Tickets: from £15 for adults and £5 for juniors if purchased in advance. www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk
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This Month with Kate Justice
THROW IT OUT! Kate Justice has turned to the professional ‘organiser’ ow’s your clutter? If you’re anything like a ‘normal’ person, then it’s probably a bone of contention in your life. Stuff. Most of us have too much Stuff, don’t we? But of course – you never know when you might need that extra two metres of carpet… or fifteen surplus blank notebooks. And the bull-worker cost a fortune when you bought it, so you can’t simply chuck it out. Well, my friends, I have news for you… you CAN chuck it out (or recycle it) and it will be very liberating indeed! I have recently hired a professional ‘Organiser’: A person, who de-clutters your life / house for a living. Someone who makes money chucking out the Stuff we blatantly no longer need yet somehow cannot part with on our own… (Let me tell you – this is a growing industry). I made the appointment with Ros, who founded and runs The Organised Company – based in Hereford - on the advice of a friend. Ros used to be in the army. (Somehow this makes her more efficient and easier to obey). Obviously she doesn’t force you to part with things you really want to keep but she has - and can pass on - the no nonsense utterly practical attitude of ‘Do you really NEED to keep this’, that separates you from your clutter in a somehow manageable and cleansing way. The results were, for me; uplifting, therapeutic and emancipating. We did all my paperwork and cleaned the whole of my office in four hours, leaving me with a neat filing system, a small in-tray of current items to be addressed that week and TWENTY bin bags of Stuff I no longer needed nor wanted. Ros took them all away for re-distribution at the tip / recycling centre / charity shop. What became apparent to me, was how much clearer my head is, when my desk is... A clutter free environment leads to clutter free thoughts and a whole realm of possibilities for creativity. It is also deliciously selfperpetuating: Even after Ros had left… I continued the epic clean up. This is
H
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“There were items that have moved house with me, but never been used… and almost a skip full of old cosmetics. All now happily chucked out.” apparently called ‘exercising your decluttering muscle’. (The children started hiding their favourite things in their bedrooms as Husband wandered around the neat and ordered house muttering ‘is nothing safe, that’s not nailed down?’) I’d had things in cupboards for years and years that never saw the light of day that for various different reasons, I wasn’t able to part with before. There were items that have moved house with me, but never been used… and almost a skip full of old cosmetics. All now happily chucked out. I’m just gobsmacked I ever let it ever get that bad. ‘Why have I kept all this?’ is a question Ros hears a lot in her work, as her clients wade through things they’ve not looked at in decades. I know I’ve hoarded for years and shouldn’t be all smug now that I’m two weeks in to my clutter free (office) life, but in all honestly, I feel like there has been a turning point here. We will soon see how much of a
turning point: Next step is my wardrobe… which sort of extends out of the door and across the bedroom… then through the landing to the spare bedroom and the wardrobe in there… as well as the utility room / back of the car / garage / mum’s house / desk at work. Oh heck, the fragility of getting this done after ten years of trying is becoming once more apparent. I evidently need to spend money on this; the booked appointment and parting with cash that goes with getting in the professionals has made all the difference to ending YEARS of procrastination for me! Ros? You free next Friday? Contact Ros at The Organised Company on Facebook or on Twitter @theorgcompany www.theorganisedcompany.co.uk Tel: 07585 556421 If you would like to share your stories with Kate Justice, please email the Editor at editor@stylemagazines.co.uk
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Auctioneers & Valuers Antiques | Jewellery | Watches
Lots 126, 163, 182, 194, 332 & 356 featuring in the February auction
Monthly Auction of Antique & Modern Jewellery Thursday 11th February Thursday 10th March Thursday 14th April For more information about free valuations and consigning to auctions at Fellows, call 0121 212 2131 or email info@fellows.co.uk
VIEW THE FULL AUCTION CALENDAR ONLINE AT WWW.FELLOWS.CO.UK Jewellery Quarter Saleroom | 19 Augusta Street, Birmingham, B18 6HA Mayfair Office | 2nd Floor, 3 Queen Street, London, W1J 5PA
fellowsauctions
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