Cotswold Style February 2013

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

February 2013

Let there be

LOVE

ss e n t i F

ion h s a F

Gifts

18

pages of musthave wedding fashion & advice

WIN A 2 NIGHT LUXURY JERSEY BREAK WIN

WIN A FANTASTIC

£1800 WEDDING

PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE

AN INTIMATE MEAL FOR TWO AT PURSLANE RESTAURANT £2.50

Countess Bathurst

An exclusive interview and why she is addicted to Twitter!

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February issue...

10 Out and About

35 Jodie Hart

43 Hot Property

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

Body beautiful advice for blushing brides ahead of their big day

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

18 Real Life The Countess Bathurst tells us all about her exciting new property project, her passion for the countryside and love for Twitter

21 Blushes hairdressing The Cheltenham salon welcomes their new assistant manager

22 Kiss the bride Four pages of beautiful and contemporary bridal fashion to inspire any bride-to-be!

31 Photography competition Your chance to win a fantastic ÂŁ1800 wedding photography package

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37 Niall Foster The Heart FM Presenter shares his opinion of Valentine’s Day

39 5 of the best...

Gift inspiration for loved ones from Gloucester Quays

41 Surtees Speaks Comment and tips from our regular contributor

42 .gl generation Read how a new domain-based initiative could help to promote your Gloucestershire business

65 February fragrance Gardening advice from Camilla Bassett-Smith

72 Win a hotel break Your chance to win a two night luxury break to Jersey

83 Seasonal Solutions Winter hair care tips from Laura Leigh Hairdressing in Cheltenham

85 The look of love Treat yourself to an indulgent facial at A-List Aesthetics

87 Business Style Everything you need to know

FEBRUARY 2013

31 29

86 22 109 Restaurant review

125 A night to remember

Gloucester City Councillor, Paul James, reviews Elmore Court

Marketing Manager, Marie Carter, reflects on Cheltenham Town’s recent match against Everton

111 Waterside dining Read about The Wharf House in Gloucester this month

112 Tom’s Travels Tom Rains, Head Chef at The Daffodil in Cheltenham shares his monthly gastronomic mission

115 A spoonful of love Ali Nightingale’s recipe for chocolate heaven

117 Made with love Shelle Duffin shares her recipe for Mississippi Mud Pie

127 Shane Duff Soccer Footballer Shane Duff tells us all about his new business venture

129 The Good Fight

Helping you to select the very best FEBRUARY 2013

27 King’s School

Gloucester’s own UFC fighter, Che Mills, talks to Rob Wheatman

29 Real Wedding: The Bakers

131 Racing Style

77 Lola’s 5th anniversary

Cathryn Fry talks to racehorse owner Richard Davies

33 Real Wedding: The Beddows

80 Melissa Antonious

135 Wessex Garages...

86 Cheltenham Supper Club

...celebrate their recent win at an awards evening in Bristol

104 Gloucester Ladies Lunch

139 Kate Justice 119 The Wine Tipster

Style events

The Heart FM presenter discusses the rather problematic issue of snow

123 Nick Wood’s School Party 132 Foodworks Black Thai Party

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FEBRUARY 2013

SEBASTIAN SELLERS

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

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

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

NEW TE BSI WE F

RY 2013

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

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FEBRUARY 2013

welcome Senior Partner Paul Bates 01242 220239 paul@stylemagazines.co.uk Partner Mark Cuzner 07917 821577 mark@stylemagazines.co.uk Web Editor Eve Holmes eholmes@stylemagazines.co.uk

Account Manager Emma Logan 07733 112182 elogan696@btinternet.com Business Development Manager Adam Robinson 07917 175919 adam@stylemagazines.co.uk Office Manager Carley O’Dea 01242 220239 office@stylemagazines.co.uk Production Consultant Hilary Collier 01242 220239 hilary@stylemagazines.co.uk Editorial Designer Nick Clark nclark@stylemagazines.co.uk

Features Writer Eric Barton 01242 220239

Photographer Spencer McPherson 07773 374316 spencer@allintheimage.co.uk Photographer Rob Wheatman 07533 368571 wheatman@me.com Photographer Phil Stevens 07875 739995 phil@allintheimage.co.uk

editor’s foreword

Do you prefer to wear your heart on your sleeve? We certainly do and so this month I am delighted to bring you an issue that is bursting with love. Since February is the month of romance, we thought it best to give you a little helping hand with any wedding planning that may need to be done. Our wedding special kicks off on page 22 with some divinely contemporary bridal couture. If you are planning on tying the knot then you will also find advice from our regular contributor, Personal Trainer Jodie Hart, on how to make sure that you fit into your wedding dress ahead of the big day (page 35).

Valentine’s Day is almost upon us and, love it or hate it, some of us will be stuck for gift ideas this year. You will find our top five gifts available from Gloucester Quays on page 39 of your magazine to help you with that all important shopping.

I was lucky enough to interview The Countess Bathurst at the family’s beautiful Cirencester Park estate this month. With an enviable energy for life and fascinating stories to tell, the Countess was an intriguing interviewee. You can read all about the lady herself on page 18.

We have a bustling business section for you this month, starting on page 87.

Turn to page 104 to take a look at all of the images from the Women’s big in business lunch at Gloucester Rugby Club. Can you spot yourself ?

And finally, we are very pleased to welcome our new neighbours, Brunsdon Financial Services, to their new office here in Eagle Tower in Cheltenham. You can read about the company’s history and recent expansion on page 71.

I hope that you enjoy the issue, please do email me with any comments at the address below.

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

@CotswoldStyle Twitter followers

20,520

www.facebook.com/ CotswoldStyleMagazine Facebook fans

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Cotswold Style

Suite 104, Eagle Tower, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL50 1TA. Switchboard: 01242 220239; Fax: 01242 257019; Email: editor@stylemagazines.co.uk or advertising@stylemagazines.co.uk.

Publisher: Paul Bates; Distribution: Pineapple Media, 172 Northern Parade, Portsmouth, Hants, PO2 9LT. Merchandising services: Patrick Farrelly.

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

FEBRUARY 2013

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ENTERTAINMENT

THE MONTPELLIER CHAPTER COOKS CLUB – LOVE OF CHOCOLATE Wednesday 5th February

Held on the first Tuesday of each month, The Montpellier Chapter hosts an incredibly popular Cooks Club. Chef and the team share they expertise with guests and give great advice on how to recreate the restaurant magic at home.

Places are limited for these events, so be quick to book your place! 4 5pm.

Cooks Club costs £5 per person, which can be redeemed against restaurant or bar purchases.

To book your place, call 01242 527788.

LADIES LUNCH CLUB AT ELLENBOROUGH PARK Wednesday February 6th The Ladies Lunch Club includes a pre lunch welcome drink, a two course lunch with wine, followed by tea or coffee.

After lunch, Andy Clifton, Communications Manager at Cheltenham Racecourse will present the Ladies Guide to Racing. £25.00 per person. 11.30am onwards.

To book and for more information please email: events@ellenboroughpark.com or call 01242 545454. Pre payment is required to secure your place.

PORT ISAAC’S FISHERMAN’S FRIENDS Thursday 7th February Cheltenham Town Hall Information: English folk music has enjoyed a renaissance in the last decade, especially in the West Country.

Now, after their success at the 2011 BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, these shanty men of Port Isaac are out on the road to

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delight and enthral audiences with their voices in an incredibly rousing and joyful set of shanties and Cornish folk songs.

Between them, they are five baritones, two top tenors, two second tenors, and one bass; it makes a fat sound, a full sound, a solid wall of sound.

The authentic sound of the shanty can be heard loud and clear via the mighty, brawny chorale of The Fisherman’s Friends. Be prepared to have your ears blown clean off. 7.30pm.

Tickets between £20 and £17.

Weekend ticketholders receive a £5 discount on this concert. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

CHELTENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL – OPENING CONCERT Friday 8th February Fay Hield & The Hurricane Party and Belshazzar’s Feast join headliners Kan to get the Festival off to a fine start.

7.45pm Tickets are £17 (£15.50 for Concessions, £8.50 for 5 16 years) Contact: www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk COME AND SING WITH THE COTSWOLD MALE VOICE CHOIR Starting from Wednesday 9th January and Wednesdays thereafter.

Start the New Year with a song and join one of the best known choirs in the county, the Cotswold Male Voice Choir!

Where you are experienced in reading music or not, come and join in whatever your singing ability and have a good time! Dean Close School.

Email: secretary@cotswoldmvc.org or visit the website: ww.cotswoldmvc.org.

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com

CHELTENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL – SATURDAY NIGHT CONCERT Saturday 9th February Headlined by the barnstorming Spiers&Boden, and featuring Tom McConville Band and a rare solo set from Andy Cutting. Tickets are £17 (£15.50 for Concessions, £8.50 for 5 16 years). 8pm. Contact: www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHELTENHAM FOLK FESTIVAL – FINAL CONCERT Sunday 10th February Join us at the final concert of Cheltenham Folk Festival 2013 with appearences from Jim Moray, Faustus and a long awaited return for headliner Nic Jones. 7.15pm. Tickets are £17 (£15.50 for Concessions, £8.50 for 5 16 years). www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

BABTAC Wednesday 13th February BABTAC would like to invite industry professionals and laser treatment practitioners to come along and have their say at BABTAC HQ. Established in Gloucester in 1977, BABTAC is the premier UK association for beauty and is the longest established and most widely recognized membership organisation in the beauty industry, representing highly trained professionals who care about their clients. BABTAC members can attend at £5 per space. To book a place email: kellyr@babtac.com

RICHE DE FLEURS – VALENTINES DAY Thursday 14th February Valentine’s Day is coming soon! Riche de Fleurs are offering FREE chocolates with any purchase of our Valentines Bouquets worth £30.00 or more.

Simply pre order your bouquet with us, or Order Online for your special valentines flowers! www.richeflowers.com COMEDY NIGHT RETURNS TO KINGSHOLM Friday 15th February Tickets are priced at just £6 in advance or £7 on the door. Information: If

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR FEBRUARY 2013

In association with

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

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com you’re looking for a cheap night out, then our comedy night in the 1873 Suite might just fit the bill. Doors open at 7pm. The 1873 Suite at Kingsholm Stadium. Call 0871 871 8781 option 2 to book your tickets.

£13 and £17. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

PETE FIRMAN – HOODWINKER Thursday 14th February

VALENTINES AT MONTY’S BRASSERIE & COCKTAIL BAR Thursday 14th February

7.30pm Tickets: £30, £25, £12.50, £10. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk On Valentine’s Day at Monty’s Brasserie, there will be exciting and delicious ‘specials’ to choose from in addition to the brand new Restaurant menu which will be launched at the beginning of February. Choose from fresh native oysters and lobster which are delivered daily from Cornwall or our best selling dish Cotswold Beef Wellington. After or before your meal head down to the Cocktail Bar to listen to Javier Moreno playing his classic flamenco guitar with a modern salsa twist.If you don’t wish to dine, you can still enjoy our Thursday night Prosecco offers and listen to the music in the Cocktail Bar. Bookings are at 7pm or 9pm in the Brasserie or at 8pm in the dining room. To book your table please call 01242 227678 or book on line www.montysbraz.co.uk

CHELTENHAM MUSIC SOCIETY – ROSALIND VENTRIS, VIOLA AND LARA DODDS-EDEN, PIANO Thursday 14th February This season’s Young Artists concert features a highly promising violist who, to judge from the awards she has already garnered, is on the verge of becoming much better known. In a performance of Mozart’s SinfoniaConcertante with Tasmin Little she was described as a ‘remarkable talent’. Rosalind is partnered by the UK based Australian pianist Lara Dodds Eden. 8pm. Tickets are between

Don’t miss Pete Firman, “the new poster boy for British comedy magic” (The Telegraph), as he returns to the road with an all new box of tricks. Fresh from BBC1’s The Magicians, with his own trademark blend of comedy and jaw dropping magic, this is a show not to be missed! … “The best magic tricks in the universe” The Independent. 8pm Tickets are £15 (£13 Concessions). www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk CHELTENHAM CONCERT SERIES - ORCHESTRA OF THE SWAN Friday 15th February Tonight’s concert begins with one of Mozart’s most popular works, described as ‘an occasional piece from a light but happy pen’. TamsinWaley Cohen is the soloist in a concerto composed in 1822 when Mendelssohn was 13, but which was only unearthed by Yehudi Menuhin in the 1950s. There is more melodious music after the interval. Mendelssohn had already composed 100 works by the time his Double Concerto was premiered when he was just 14. It is a piece full of youthful promise, as soloists TamsinWaley Cohen and Huw Watkins (himself a composer) will demonstrate tonight. This mood carries on in to Suk’s Serenade for Strings, produced whilst studying under Dvořák at the Prague Conservatory.

FEBRUARY 2013 SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR

HOWLERS AT THE HALL Wednesday 20th February Cheltenham’s biggest and best comedy club is back for another night of top stand up. With a line up still to be finalised, keep an eye on www.howlerscomedyclub.com for updates. 8.30pm.

Tickets are £12 (£9 Students). www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

FOOD AND WINE PAIRING Thursday 21st February This workshop will go through the principles of food and wine pairing by tasting different food with a variety of wine. Discover the dos and don’ts and impress your friends by learning how to select the right food and wine pairing for your own dinner party. The event will consist of 4 small dishes each matched with 2 different wines. £28 per person.

To book please contact events on 01242 588450 or: events.cheltenham@hotelduvin.com MASTERWORKS Thursday 21st February Information: Two classics of the violin and piano repertoire frame two favourite works from the twentieth century. The Barritt/Lisney duo claimed a Classic FM award for their recording of the complete works of Beethoven together they have the perfect pedigree to interpret the monumental Fantasy in C.7.30pm Tickets are £15 (£5 Concessions). www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

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GYPSY FIRE Friday 22nd February

Gypsy Fire’s explosive energy and talent has created a dynamic quartet that is unrivalled.Their show is an acoustic white knuckle ride encompassing many different musical genres. Individually they are acclaimed soloists, together they are simply breathtaking.

8pm Tickets are £14. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk DEAN CLOSE SCHOOL SPRING CONCERT Sunday 24th February Programme includes Neruda’s Trumpet Concerto (soloist Hannah Williams) and Mozart’s Requiem (Choral Society).

For tickets please send an SAE to Mrs SH Klemz, Music Dept. Administrator, Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. 7.30pm.

Free Admission. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

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atmosphere of the great Pink Floyd in concert! Songs from Dark Side Of The Moon through to Division Bell are featured, so fans of all ages will find something from their ‘era’! 7.30pm

Contact: www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk YES, PRIME MINISTER – EVERYMAN THEATRE Monday 4th Saturday 9th March

SURPRISES – EVERYMAN THEATRE Thursday 26th February 2nd March Everyman Theatre, Cheltenham Come and watch the world premiere production of Surprises at the Everyman Theatre. Alan Ayckbourn’s latest comedy with its head in the future and its heart in the past.”

Tickets between £10 £25. To book visit: www.everymantheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01242 572573 UK PINK FLOYD EXPERIENCE Thursday 28th February Information: The nine piece UK Pink Floyd Experience replicates the line up of the full live Pink Floyd touring band of the late 80s and 90s. With state of the art sound and a spectacular light show, the aim is to perfect the

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Last chance to see the smash hit production of Jonathan Lynn and Antony Jay’s play on its third regional tour, Following a previous sell out run, Yes, Prime Minister returns to the Everyman for one week only.

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com Tickets between £12 £27 To book visit: www.everymantheatre.org.uk or call the box office on 01242 57257

FAMILY WEDDING OPEN DAY AT ELLENBOROUGH PARK Sunday 3rd February For couples searching for their dream wedding venue, this is an opportunity to view the hotel fully dressed for a wedding. Meet Ellenborough Park’s wedding experts, the hotel’s preferred suppliers and discuss creating that perfect day. Exclusive on the day wedding offers will be available.

Licensed for civil ceremonies. Reception for up to 140 guests. Bridal treatments and spa days for individuals, couples and small private parties. 62 luxurious rooms featuring Hypnos beds and spacious bathrooms. 11am 4pm.

For more information: Contact by telephone 01242 806763 or email: events@ellenborough.com. www.ellenboroughpark.com CINECUB SCREENINGS Thursday 7th February and Thursday 21st February Don’t miss out on the latest screenings at the cinema just because of your new bundle of joy! Gloucester Guildhall has launched brand new fortnightly baby screening for a chance for new mothers and fathers to get a chance to get out of the house and watch the latest films.

There’s plenty of buggy parking and no need to worry about nappy changing or babies crying! The first two films of the month will be Gambit (12A) on Thursday 7th February and also The Sapphires (12A) on Thursday 21st February, both at 10.45am. Tickets just £5, babies go free (No admittance without a child under 12 months).

For more information visit: www.gloucesterguildhall.co.uk THEO THE MOUSE - MAGICAL MAYHEM Tuesday 12th February, 3pm From the writer of TV favourites Sooty and Basil Brush comes the UK’s

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

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

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LERY

M/GAL

FAMILY FILM SHOWINGS February Half Term

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Blenheim Palace will open for the new season with a dynamic exhibition ‘Lights, Camera, Action’, which has at its heart many of the films and TV programmes in which Blenheim Palace has starred.

The Palace has played host to many film & TV crews over the years. The most recent large productions include Gulliver’s Travels (Fox UK Productions 2010), The Young Victoria (Momentum Pictures, 2008 and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Warner Brothers, 2007). Some films place the Palace centre stage, but others come to film small aspects you might not

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Saturday 9th February – Monday 1st April

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“LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION – BLENHEIM PALACE THE STAR OF TV AND FILM”

recognise at first glance such as part of a staircase, or a tree, or for a glimpse of the maze. This exhibition will be staged at various locations throughout the Palace and grounds for visitors to find out what happens at the Palace when Hollywood descends.

The Exhibition will show the link between Blenheim Palace and film, and the key role the Palace has played as a location over a number of years.

Visitors will be able to see reference to films from Entrapment (20th Century Fox, 1999), Hamlet (Castle Rock, Kenneth Brannagh, 1996) and Bollywood’s Kabhi Khushi Kabhie Gham (Yash Raj films, 2001), to documentaries including BBC’s Climbing Britain, ITV’s Lewis and some advertisements that have been filmed at Blenheim Palace highlighting the extremes that the film companies go to in order to get the ultimate shot!

Throughout the half term week, some of the family friendly films that have been shot at Blenheim Palace will be screened in the Courtyard Restaurant.

The films will start at 2pm each day, seats are limited and will be on a first come first served basis (150 max capacity per screening).

HALF A SIXPENCE (1967) Sunday 10th BLACK BEAUTY (1994) Tuesday 12th HARRY POTTER AND THE ORDER OF THE PHOENIX (2007) Thursday 14th GULLIVER’S TRAVELS (2010) Saturday 16th The exhibition will be located inside the Palace, in the East Courtyard Visitor Centre and at the Pleasure Gardens.

There will be related activities, tours and workshops during half term week and other weekends throughout the duration of the exhibition.

cleverest children’s character, Theo the Mouse. Join him for a hilarious interactive show packed with magic, laughter and music for all the family.

Children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Cheltenham Town Hall. £6 Children (£8 Adults) 2 Adults & 2 Children £24. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk

HIGH SCHOOL ROCKS! Wednesday 13th February A high energy, foot stomping, totally interactive production featuring all the very best hits from High School Musical 1, 2, and 3, Hannah Montana, Camp Rock and Glee! Join the superb cast for a rollercoaster ride of fun as they invite you to the ultimate party to celebrate all of these awesome teen sensations in one fantastic concert. Don’t forget your

dancing shoes and be prepared to rock out as High School Rocks! Wildcats get ready to party! 2pm. Tickets are £12.50 or 2 Adults & 2 Children £40. www.cheltenhamtownhall.org.uk MOTHERS DAY 10th March Treat your nearest and dearest to a whole new dining experience in

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Cheltenham. Le Brunch is nations favourite Sunday lunch with a French twist. A heart warming soup course is followed by a help yourself lavish French Market Table, the centrepiece of Le Brunch at Hotel du Vin. An exciting choice of fresh seafood, crustacean, charcuterie, patés, rilletes and a selection of salads, vegetables and freshly baked artisan breads. Then a plethora of your

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Sunday lunch favourites including traditional roasts. And a few delectable delights to finish including traditional apple crumble. Hotel du Vin& Bistro, Cheltenham. Cost: £29.95 for adults, £14.50 for children. To book please contact the Bistro on 0845 365 4438 or book online at: www.hotelduvin.com

CHARITY THE PIED PIPER APPEAL CHINESE NIGHT Friday 15th February 7.00pm for 7.30pm dinner serve. The White Horse Chinese Restaurant, Sandhurst Lane, Gloucester. Just £25 per head, £250 for a table of 10 (Prices includes 2 bottles of wine per table).

During the course of the evening there will be a raffle in aid of The Pied Piper Appeal. Contact: For more information please contact The Pied Piper Appeal Office on 03004 226119.

WINSTON’S WISH GREAT BRITISH BREKKIE Monday 18th Monday 25th February

Winston’s Wish is asking everyone to hold their own Great British Brekkie!

Join in and let’s all revive the tradition of the Great British breakfast with anything from a traditional full English to a good ol’ cuppa and toast! Be a part of our breakfast revolution and help bereaved children go into the future with hope and confidence. For more information and to sign up please visit: www.greatbritishbrekkie.org.uk WINSTON’S WISH ANNUAL CHARITY GOLF DAY Thursday 9th May Just £200 for a team of four players.

Running since 2002, Winston’s wish and Brickhampton Golf Complex have been working together to raise money for the

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charity. With the day comprising of a challenging round of golf with prizes and a brilliant buffet lunch.Contact: More information is available at: www.winstonswish.org.uk/golfday

SPORTING EVENTS GLOUCESTER RUGBY V BATH RUGBY Saturday 2nd February Kick off 2pm.

Kingsholm Stadium.

Ticket prices start from just £10 for adults and £3 for juniors.

Watch Gloucester Rugby take on local derby rivals Bath Rugby in the LV Cup Live at Kingsholm.

Visit: www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk or call 0871 871 8781 option 2 to book your tickets.

GLOUCESTER RUGBY V WORCESTER WORRIERS Friday 22nd February Kick off 7.45pm.

Kingsholm Stadium.

Ticket prices start from just £15 for adults and £5 for juniors.

Watch Gloucester Rugby take on Worcester Warriors in the Aviva Premiership Live at Kingsholm.

Visit: www.gloucesterrugby.co.uk or call 0871 871 8781 option 2 to book your tickets.

‘eat well, enjoy wine, love life’

www.montpellierwinebar.com

GLOUCESTER QUAYS GRAND PRIX Saturday 13th and Sunday 14th April

Gloucester Quays is launching a new, free 2 day event for 2013 that will bring all the buzz and adrenaline of the Grand Prix to the centre all with remote control cars! If you thought radio control cars were just toys think again. Come and see the UK’s top drivers compete in the Gloucester Quays Grand Prix on the 13th and 14th April for fast, furious action in the heart of Gloucester’s premier shopping venue.

In between the heats of the grand prix there will be a chance for the public to come and have a go. After a briefing, the public will be invited to experience a tuned radio controlled car that has been specially prepared to be easy to drive.

Racing will start on Saturday morning and climax with finals on Sunday afternoon. The public are free to come and watch the event from dedicated viewing areas on the upper level.

For more information go to www.gloucesterquays.co.uk

VALENTINES DISCOVERY MENU

The Daffodil in Cheltenham has put together a very special Valentines Discovery tasting menu... for two to share of course!

Canapés and Taittinger champagne cocktails to start with followed by Carlingford Rock Oysters, then either a delicious Chateaubriand Steak to share or whole Monkfish cooked over real charcoal fire. Lovers are then encouraged to loosen their belts and tuck into a Dessert tasting plate of Daffodil favourites £60 per person including coffee and homemade petit fours.

The Valentines Discovery menu will be available both at lunch and dinner from the 14 16th February inclusive.

For more details or to view the full menu, visit www.thedaffodil.com where you can also book online at any time or call reservations on 01242 700 055.

SPONSORED BY MONTPELLIER WINE BAR FEBRUARY 2013

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

Fresh flowers delivered to your door.

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

Please call us on 01242 517777 for orders and enquiries

Or alternatively, visit our shop in the heart of Montpellier, Cheltenham for personal service and advice.

Our address is: 5 Montpellier St, Cheltenham, GL50 1SX

Juice would

Love to work with you!

Juice -The Best In The South West!

01242 210410 www.juicerecruitment.com FEBRUARY 2013

COTSWOLD STYLE 15

With love to your Valentine Traditional red rose bouquets and modern flower designs – prices start from £25 At Bumblebeez, we’re proud to have a reputation for creating the finest bouquets in Gloucestershire. No matter what your requirements, we can create a beautiful bouquet for your loved one this Valentine’s Day.

Order online or by telephone: www.bumblebeez.co.uk Tel: 01242 707 888 107 Hewlett Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 6BB /bumblebeezflorist

16 COTSWOLD STYLE

@bumblebeezchelt FEBRUARY 2013

SHANE DUFF SOCCER SCHOOL Where better to learn?

Boys and Girls aged 6-12

MON 11TH, TUES 12TH, WED 13TH & THURS 14TH FEBRUARY 9.30am – 3.30pm

All Saints’ Academy Blaisdon Way, Cheltenham, GL51 0WH BOOK NOW CALL SHANE ON 07813 800238 Email: info@shaneduffsoccer.co.uk

www. shaneduffsoccer.co.uk

real life

“I AM SETTING UP HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME IN MY LIFE!” Vivacious and passionate about all things rural, Emma Roberts meets The Countess Bathurst to discover more about her fantastic new property project PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF CRAIG DERRICK PHOTOGRAPHY

The Countess is an inspiration. Unafraid to speak her mind and fiercely loyal to the Bathurst family that she married in to, she very kindly tells me all about how she manages to juggle her role as Countess with a sparkling new holiday cottage project, an addiction to Twitter… and somehow she is even finding the time to hand rear a five week old calf!

“We are incredibly lucky to live here on the estate in Cirencester. I used to cook Sunday lunches with all of the trimmings because it was the way I was brought up… but now we go out because the choice of local restaurants is so good.

And there’s no washing up!”

The Countess is in the process of leading a team to renovate a gorgeous cottage belonging to the estate, in the village of Sapperton, with a view to marketing the property for the purpose of holiday rentals.

“I am so excited about my little cottage”, she says, “Sir Benjamin Bathurst bought the estate in 1695 for his eldest son Allen, and it is the first holiday cottage ever on this estate in nearly 320 years so it is an incredibly important new chapter. It has taken me a long time to make it happen, having wanted to do it for many years and as it’s my very first, I’ve renamed it ‘Apsley Cottage’, which is a family name.”

“When your husband becomes the head of the family, with you naturally at his side, it is a time when one can perhaps explore ideas that were not appropriate to push for previously. It is a new era and every Earl and Countess brings his or her own energy and beliefs to the role. Carrying on traditions is incredibly important, but we’d also like to introduce new ones where appropriate.”

“The secret with a great estate like this is that new thoughts and ideas are

18 COTSWOLD STYLE

embraced, but don’t take over. For instance, I love the computer but my husband would much rather be out on the farm… we balance one another perfectly. He doesn’t understand Twitter but is hugely indulgent in my using it and doesn’t mind a bit.

“My tweeting causes him much amusement, as he knows it’s a challenge for me to keep things to a minimum.

He’s always telling me “When two words will do, you’ll always use fifty”, but in that respect Twitter has been a wonderful education, because I have to paraphrase.

But I enjoy tweeting and log in every day, so I get plenty of practice!

“I try not to get too political, there are some really quite savage people out there, with very fixed ideas and while I like to think that the way we live our life is good, true, charitable and that we will always do our best, do our duty, be traditional and do everything that we can to support our community and the estate, there are people out there who instantly judge us negatively because of the family title.”

The Countess holds an infectious zest for life and sense of humour. She is a woman who knows her own mind, but equally is incredibly sensitive to the opinions of others. She takes me to meet Victoria… the five week old calf that she is hand rearing, and I ask if her property plan has been met with any objections at all.

“People may comment that I am looking to make a fast profit with the introduction of houses such as Apsley Cottage and that before they know it, the entire estate will be seasonal lets, but that is by no means the plan”, she says.

“Sapperton is a beautiful and vibrant village and I am not about to make it the holiday destination of the Cotswolds!”

“What is bizarre about this project is

that I'm 47 years old and, for the first time in my life, I'm setting up a house. I left home and my first job was live in. I then went to live in America and either joined a roommate, or moved into a new flat with already established possessions and when I returned to England, I lived in my mother’s house, as she was abroad then I got married and came to Cirencester Park. So I find I'm now having to focus on little things like teaspoons… Mustn’t forget the teaspoons! I am literally making a nest from scratch. I found my first two pieces of furniture at auction last week and I can’t tell you how much fun I’m having selecting interiors, tiles, bathrooms and all the wonderful things us girls get to do when setting up a household.

“Great estates like these survive because they adapt to the modern world.

Otherwise the modern world, unfortunately, will say you’re very sweet and quaint, but regretfully we’ll have to leave you behind. But it’s fantastic to be right in the middle of Cirencester, in the hub of our commuity. We rattle through the town regularly and love to be involved in its life. For instance, my husband is there twice a month, at 6am helping to set up the farmer’s market he started 12 years ago and I’m sure will continue to be there as long as he can and that’s what it’s all about remaining connected and relevant.” CS FEBRUARY 2013

People will stare... make it worthwhile!

01242 226644 | 01285 656091 | 01452 528342 Cheltenham Cirencester Gloucester

Hair and Makeup by Blushes

www.blushes.co.uk

beauty

Back to my roots!

Carina began her hairdressing career with the team at Blushes and so it is fitting that she has returned to her roots here in Gloucestershire. Bringing with her a wealth of experience, the whole team are very excited about what now lays ahead.

In 2009, Carina left Cheltenham to begin working for Vidal Sassoon in London. “I had the full backing and support of Darrell and the team here when I left to begin training at Sassoon in London,” Carina says, “I fell in love with the way that Sassoon cut hair and my time there was a fantastic experience.”

Able to name Mary Quant as a former client, Carina is now very much focussed on educating the Blushes team. “I was in FEBRUARY 2013

London for four years and I learned so much there. But I am not a 9 5 person and am incredibly passionate about the job that I do; always willing to put the extra hours in. I realised that I am able to fulfil a more senior role by being back here in Cheltenham, in order to maintain a healthy work and life balance. I really can give it my all here and still see friends and family regularly”, Carina explains.

“I love my education role here at Blushes and I wouldn’t have wanted to

“I love my education role here at Blushes and I wouldn’t have wanted to go anywhere else.”

GIVE A SPECIAL GIFT THIS MOTHER’S DAY...

Blushes hairdressing is offering you the opportunity to win a cut and colour in one of our salons for your mum this Mother’s Day. To enter, nominate your mum and in no more than 50 words explain why she deserves to be pampered. The winner will be selected after the closing date of March 1st 2013.

Please email your entry to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk

COMPETITION

Blushes hairdressing in Cheltenham is pleased to welcome their new assistant manager, Carina Hedderman, to the team...

go anywhere else. I am going to be able to provide a very clear structure of training to the staff that will benefit our clients. Most of which the team are already doing. We are all so excited and the opportunity to handle the style consultations in the Style Pod with Michelle Blake is a dream come true.

The beauty of the Style Pods is that our clients can enjoy a very personal and bespoke service and in turn emerge with a brand new look.” CS

COTSWOLD STYLE 21

fashion

Kiss the Bride Photography by www.mcphersonstevens.com

FEBRUARY 2013

COTSWOLD STYLE 23

fashion

CREDITS Styling: Ladyamy Bespoke Wedding Designs Photography: Phil & Spencer from McPherson Stevens Creative Photography www.mcphersonstevens.com Dresses: The White Rose, 01386 848 802 www.thewhiterosebridal.co.uk, info@thewhiterosebridal.co.uk Menswear: Oaks Menswear, 01242 524 262 www.oaks group.com/store Accessories (Neck Corset and Dove Head piece): Natalie Ellner at Ellsewhere www.ellsewhere.com Location: Great Tythe Barn, Tetbury, Glos, 01666 502475 www.gtb.co.uk, events@gtb.co.uk Flowers: The Flower Fairies, 07983 441588 www.theflowerfairies.com, charlie@theflowerfairies.com Hair and make-up: Jenny Davies Bridal Hair and Make Up www.jenniferdaviesweddings.blogspot.co.uk With thanks to Models: Alwyn du preez and Roxanne Ebrehimi

24 COTSWOLD STYLE

FEBRUARY 2013

Book your appointment now for a fabulous and enjoyable experience...

In the comfort of our Studio in the centre of Cheltenham, relax and have fun with other members of your wedding party in the search for your perfect dress.

Why not book our special ‘Style & Colour My Day’ service where our in-house stylist will work with you to identify:

Which of the many shades available for your wedding dress suits you the most What your best style options are, with a review on neckline options as the choices can be overwhelming Find out what make-up shades will work best on the day so that you can practice and get used to seeing yourself in them before the big day

Establish the best style and colour options for your bridesmaids no matter what size, shape, height or age they are

Mums and Mother In laws will be shown all the best possibilities for their outfits and accessories and If you include them, you'll end up with a groom who will look well groomed!

Georgina

Rose

Our in-h o Workin use Bridal De signer helps th g with our b rides s em to he own c create their outure very gown.

Our commitment to helping you find the best look for the most special day of your life has led us to design this unique styling service ‘Style & Colour My Day Service’ for Brides, Mothers-of-the-Brides, Bridesmaids, Grooms and Mother-in-Laws giving you yet more support on your special journey.

Call Ali on: 01242 260640 | www.cotswoldbride.com 3 Ormond Terrace, Regent Street, Cheltenham GL50 1HR

26 COTSWOLD STYLE

FEBRUARY 2013

See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

King’s School annual Festival of Carols Guests gathered in the Chapter House at Gloucester Cathedral for The King’s School annual Festival of Carols this year named a Feast of Carols; an evening of singing from both the King’s Harmonists and Chamber Choir complemented by food related to the carols sung

s

Photography by Marcus Green

FEBRUARY 2013

COTSWOLD STYLE 27

`ÉÇàÑxÄÄ|xÜ YÄÉãxÜá Fresh flowers delivered to your door.

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

‘VALENTINE’S SPECIAL’

Mention Cotswold

Style when ordering a dozen

Red Roses and receive FREE delivery

Hand Tied Bouquets made to order Valentine Flowers Wedding Flowers Floral Tributes Corporate Flower Arrangements Delivery Service Please call us on

01242 517777 for orders and enquiries

Or alternatively, visit our shop in the heart of Montpellier, Cheltenham for personal service and advice.

5 Montpellier St, Cheltenham, GL50 1SX

28 COTSWOLD STYLE

www.`ÉÇàÑxÄÄ|xÜyÄÉãxÜá.com

FEBRUARY 2013

See more weddings at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

real wedding

The wedding of James and Hannah Baker

It was a New Year’s Eve of magical memories for James and Hannah Baker, who tied the knot at “the most romantic Castle in England”, Sudeley Castle.

The white themed winter wedding included a reception in the banqueting hall and dancing in a transparent marquee set against the romantic ruins in the grounds.

Photography www.susiemackie.com Location www.sudeleycastle.co.uk Flowers Copelands Flowers www.copelandsflowercompany.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2013

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Under New Management WEDDING DAYS

con nues to give brides a very personal service.

With our beau ful showrooms and stunning gowns from world renowned designers in the gorgeous surroundings of Cheltenham Spa, we aim to make your experience a memory to last a life me.

Appointments are advisable

01242 224965

ftÇwĂœt Wxx Lingerie, Nightwear and Swimwear

01242 238427

3 Montpellier Walk, Cheltenham, GL50 1SD

Open Monday-Saturday 9.30am-5.30pm

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

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@sandradee uk

FEBRUARY 2013

weddings

WIN A

£1800

FANTASTIC WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY PACKAGE

Wedding Creatives was formed by professional photographers Noel Hibbert and Rob Tarren as a platform to support a group of local businesses who provide a creative and artistic wedding experience.

In a congested marketplace full of outdated, impersonal and unimaginative services, our main objective is to promote companies or individuals who offer modern, stylish, exciting and innovative ideas for couples seeking a unique wedding experience. We provide a portal for people who adopt a flair for creativity within their work by helping them engage with customers looking for something extra special on the biggest day of their lives.

Wedding Creatives are a team of people providing a truly tailored, personalised and bespoke wedding experience that matches the expectations of their customers.

Cotswold Style has teamed up with Wedding Creatives to bring you an incredible wedding photography package valued at £1,800. A package that will include: • Pre Wedding consultation to discuss and plan your day.

• Engagement / Pre Wedding photo shoot with all processed images provided on DVD. • A full day of photography at your wedding from bridal preparations to the first dance.

• Two photographers in attendance all day to cover every aspect of your wedding.

• Approximately 300 to 400 fully processed images on DVD. • A 6"x 6" table top album.

• ‘Photobooth’ style photography in the evening.

Noel and Rob are professional photographers specialising in wedding and lifestyle portraiture, adopting a reportage style of photography allowing them capture the story of the wedding day as it unfolds. Careful planning beforehand ensures a very relaxed and enjoyable experience for the bride and groom which ultimately ensures they spend more time with their guests and less time being directed by the photographers.

FEBRUARY 2013

TO ENTER, simply email your answers to the details requested in the purple box below to: competition@ weddingcreatives.co.uk AND ‘Like’ the • Name of Bride Wedding Creatives page • Name of Groom at www.facebook.com/ • Date of Wedding WeddingCreatives.

• Wedding Venue Your wedding date and venue • Contact address • Contact Email must be confirmed prior to • Contact Number entering the competition.

All entrants to the competition will receive a 15% discount for an identical wedding photography package to the one listed above if booked before the 31st March 2013.

Terms & Conditions • Prize winners will receive a pre wedding shoot and a full day wedding coverage.

• Prize winners will receive 300+ high resolution fully processed images on DVD. These images will remain yours forever and you will be free to print and reproduce them as you see fit.

• Closing date for entries is 1st March 2013.

• Prize winners will be selected at random and notified on 2nd March 2013 • The winning wedding or ceremony must take place before 31st December 2013.

• Entrants must be 18 years of age or older.

• The wedding should preferably take place within the Cotswolds or surrounding areas. Reasonable transportation and accommodation (if required) costs at distances in excess of 50 miles from Cheltenham must be covered by the prize winners.

• We will contact winners using the contact details provided. If there is no response to your winner notification within 7 working days we shall pass the prize on to another entrant. Cotswold Style, Rob Tarren Photography and Cotswold Pictures will not amend contact information provided.

• Prize winners must be willing to be featured on www.cotswoldstyle.co.uk www.weddingcreatives.co.uk www.robtarren.co.uk and www.cotswoldpictures.co.uk including associated social media and industry websites. Images may also be published in print media.

• Additional printed 10" x 10" albums are available at an additional cost.

• Copyright of the images, publicity materials and any of their derivatives will solely remain the property of Wedding Creatives, Rob Tarren Photography and Cotswold Pictures.

• If for any reason the advertised prize is unavailable, Wedding Creatives, Rob Tarren Photography and Cotswold Pictures reserves the right at its absolute discretion to substitute a similar prize of equivalent or greater value. None of the prizes may be exchanged or transferred and no cash alternative will be offered.

• By entering the draw, you hereby warrant that all information submitted by you is true, current and complete.

• No purchase necessary.

COTSWOLD STYLE 31

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FEBRUARY 2013

See more weddings at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

real wedding

The wedding of Tim and Emma Beddow

Friday September 21st 2012 saw the marriage of socialite and ex professional Bath Rugby Player, Tim Beddow, to his beautiful and charming Bride, Emma Ward, at the picturesque St Peter's Church in Leckhampton. The wedding breakfast and reception were held at the stunning Greenway Spa and Hotel where the 50+ guests of family and close friends enjoyed the exquisite food and outstanding service provided by the Greenway Hotel staff.

Pictures by Craig Derrick Photography

FEBRUARY 2013

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reader offer

NEVER-ENDING LOVE

“With designs in gold and platinum our team in store will help you choose the perfect style and ideal fit”

Wedding rings have been the symbol of never ending love for centuries and the team at Chapelle Jewellery, Gloucester Quays know how important it is to make the right selection of this most precious piece of jewellery. With designs in gold and platinum our team in store will help you choose the perfect style and ideal fit. We know you want a wedding ring to be a constant reminder of the commitment made to your partner and we will help you select the ideal band.

With a £200 gift card to spend in store you can select from the wedding ring range or choose gifts for the bridal party to remember your day; we have cufflinks for the ushers and stunning jewellery for the bridesmaids. Don’t forget, Chapelle Jewellery has savings of up to 50% across the whole shop, so visit us at Gloucester Quays or online at www.chapelle.co.uk and see how much you can save. We think you’ll be amazed! For your chance to win a £200 gift card email your name to editor@stylemagazines.co.uk by March 1st 2013.

In association with Cheltenham Racecourse, organised by WeddingLink, part of the Archant Community Media Group

COME AND ENJOY A FANTASTIC DAY OUT AND PLAN YOUR DREAM WEDDING

Cheltenham Racecourse Saturday 16th & Sunday 17th February 2013 10AM - 5PM DAILY The Wedding Show is an event not to be missed, it will give you the opportunity to meet and discuss your individual requirements with more than 100 wedding industry suppliers and professionals. There are live band performances and demonstrations, a restaurant and spectacular, choreographed, catwalk fashion shows featuring exquisite bridal gowns and couture, ladies fashions and menswear. We look forward to seeing you there.

Advance Ticket Price £5 per person or £15 for a group of 4 adults

In association wit

h

On the Day: All tickets £7.50 per person

Save money when you purchase your tickets in advance Order your tickets online today at www.theweddingshow.co.uk To book over the phone or for more information please call 01803 860753

WWW.THEWEDDINGSHOW.CO.UK

34 COTSWOLD STYLE

FEBRUARY 2013

weddings

Get a

dream

BRIDAL BODY...

Hello ladies, I am very happy to announce that my gorgeous man proposed to me on New Year’s Eve and having set our wedding date for May this year, I am now submerging myself into the life of a bride-to-be and loving it.

This got me thinking about all of the other lovely ladies out there who, like me, want to look amazing on their big day. Are you one of them?

So, I decided to write down my top ten tips to help make sure that you look smokin’ hot on your big day...

1. When you are exercising, make sure that you are doing a mixture of resistance training as well as cardiovascular exercise. Resistance to make sure that you have lean and toned muscles and cardio to make you fitter.

2. Include interval training in your workouts. Short, sharp, higher intensity bursts of exercise e.g interval treadmill running, spin or circuits.

3. Drink a glass of water before each meal. Don’t confuse thirst with hunger!

4. Avoid processed foods

FEBRUARY 2013

eat fresh

foods, try to cook from scratch as often as possible.

go into robotic mode and do the same thing every time you step foot in the gym.

6. Eat regularly and don’t skip meals.

This will stop you grabbing the first thing you set your eyes on when you finally get round to eating.

If you have any questions regarding exercise or nutrition then please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I offer one-to-one personal training and would be very happy to help you get your dream body for your special day. My email address is Jodie@hartfitness.co.uk or call me on 07787 561 303.

5. Take the stairs instead of the lift trust me, it all counts.

7. Eat a source of protein with each meal. This will help you feel fuller for longer and help to maintain and repair muscle tissue, e.g. meat, fish, eggs and dairy.

8. Eat immediately after exercise.

9. Vary your exercise workouts. Don’t

10. Portion sizes! Be aware of how much you are eating. CS

Congratulations to Jodie and Pierre from all of us at Cotswold Style!

COTSWOLD STYLE 35

Brides in bloom Bumblebeez is a Cheltenham-based florist dedicated to providing clients with a first class professional service. With years of experience, our team of expert florists delight in creating floral arrangements that are as special as the wedding day itself.

We offer our brides a bespoke service which includes a consultation with our wedding specialist who will work with bridal parties to ensure the correct flowers, styles and designs are chosen for the occasion.

Tel: 01242 707 888 www.bumblebeez.co.uk 107 Hewlett Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire GL52 6BB /bumblebeezflorist 36

COTSWOLD STYLE

@bumblebeezchelt FEBRUARY 2013

niall foster

Hearts and flowers?

Heart FM (rather appropriately) presenter, Niall Foster, discusses the meaning behind the day devoted to romance…

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

FEBRUARY 2013

Serious question do I have to ‘do’ Valentine’s Day this year? Is there not a certificate of exemption I get granted after so many years service? At point of writing I must confess that the prospect of coming up with an idea that will seem romantic and spontaneous at the same time is perhaps this year beyond me. I don’t feel any less love for my partner than I did on the first Valentine’s Day together, it is just as we approach our fourteenth together I feel I have run out of ideas and, dare I say it, the inclination to make a fuss this year.

I’m not against the idea of a particular day in the year dedicated to the declaration of love, and to mark it on the day of a Roman Catholic martyr who has come to represent courtly love seems as appropriate as any. The cynical side of my nature frowns on the profiteering of card companies, florists and restaurants around this particular date but I can also appreciate that in the free market they are simply tapping in to a willing customer base. Although I will admit to buying a bunch of flowers at a random date in January and presenting them

as a Valentine’s gift ‘before the prices get hiked in the next few weeks’. Miserly I know, and I am guilty as charged there.

Back to this year, I am at a genuine loss. When I think back over previous years I think I’ve covered all the bases.

We’ve each had multiple goes at providing a home cooked romantic meal, we’ve exchanged all manner of gifts from the simple to the extravagant, we’ve dined out, had weekends away and one year even timed a winter sun holiday in West Africa to coincide with the date and spend Valentine’s Day on the beach.

Perhaps the least memorable was the year I forgot and did the dreaded dash to a nearby petrol station for a pathetic bunch of flowers that came with a red faced apology! There was also a year very early on in our experience of parenthood that we consciously agreed to mark the date in no way whatsoever. That doesn’t feel right this year and I’m in the position of not wanting to be the one to suggest it, so this means whatever we do will have an element of repetition to it.

I’ve started to think, however, that this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. Originality is not just difficult to achieve surely it is overrated? Surely it’s the intention and the sincerity behind any gesture that is important? I think I’ll return to some advice received from a listener last year when I asked on Heart what I could do and I was told to simply buy a bunch of flowers, present them with a hug and the words that my partner is perfect and everything I would ever want. Sounds like a plan. CS

COTSWOLD STYLE 37

CATERING HIRE q

li

irefor p ec i loc c ion

30 years of quality hire, service and value.

For expert advice and colour brochure...

01242 820100 or www.rrhire.co.uk R&R Catering Hire Ltd

Unit 9, Coln Park, Andoversford, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL54 4HJ Photography by Rupert Purcell 01285 831198

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FEBRUARY 2013

valentine’s gift guide

RRP £16, reduced to £11.20.

Le Creuset offers cookware in a wide range of colours, from the most classical to the most contemporary.

Bra from £20 and briefs from £12. Calvin Klein underwear have an extensive range of underwear for the man or woman in your life.

5 of the

best

Shirt costs £20, or three for £55.

Tie £18, or two for £30. Please visit our store to see our great range of styles and sizes.

Stuck for ideas? Treat your beloved to one of these romantic gifts this Valentine’s Day...

All products are available from stores at Gloucester Quays Free silver heart charm worth £24.99 when you buy this silver sweetie bracelet for just £39.99 (RRP £89.99) before Valentine's day. Lots of gift ideas for your loved one from under £20.

RRP £275, reduced to £189. Please visit our store to see the range of fantastic Valentine’s promotions we have available for you and your loved ones.

FEBRUARY 2013

COTSWOLD STYLE 39

SWING from PARIS The sounds of a chic Parisian cafĂŠ and the French jazz of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli.

Stylish jazz & vintage swing, perfect for your occasion. Get in touch at:

swingfromparis.com A passion for fashion

Hat Hire/Fascinators

eddings are such a magical time for all involved and choosing an outfit is all part of the fun!

Here at Monday Boutique we have many stylish outfits and a wide range of jewellery and accessories for Mother of the Bride, friends and family.

Our helpful assistants are on hand to give style advice and reassurance when choosing an outfit.

We have recently launched our new Hat Service to buy or hire hats and fascinators.

So now we can help dress you from head to toe!

Call 01285 640100 or visit www.mondayboutique.co.uk/hat-hire.php

25%ff

HAT HIRE FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH* Please bring this voucher when you purchase hat hire in-store. * Valid until 31/03/13

2 West Market Place, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 2NH. Tel: 01285 640100 E: monday.tc@hotmail.com

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FEBRUARY 2013

’’

www shoottheday co uk

a woman’s work

urtees

peaks “Including … why I might get done for GBH in 2013 and how to undercoat your face.…

I officially don’t give a damn about my consumer options and I don’t care if this makes me old fashioned. I miss the golden days of innocence, when you went into a shop, looked at what they had and just bought what you liked. When you could flick through a holiday brochure and the only question about the hotel was the price. Now thanks to Trip Advisor, The Alpha Scot (my husband) won’t even consider a resort unless it has a minimum of five stars and a signature cocktail.

Too much information is just as bad as too little. All this tech is supposed to liberate us on the contrary, I find it just ties up more of my time. Quite frankly, Readers, all that upgrading and downloading is draining. As I spend yet another part of my day playing email tag with my (forgotten) passwords, I’m so

worn down with all the options, I end up forgetting everything I’ve carefully researched and end up an internet addict, typing my credit card into any site that will accept it.

Even the shops have been brainwashed; we go to the stores in person to look at the merchandise and avoid all the password/login palaver. I can’t be the only person who wants to slap the sales assistants who ask if I’ve “checked online?” Why should I? I’m standing right here in your shop!

So I’ve decided to go off grid and go foraging in the wild (or to the High Street as it’s commonly known). While I’m out, feel free to hack into my online accounts.

My password is my mother’s first dog’s third puppy’s name. Now... if only I could remember what that was.... CS

I don’t really like the word “grooming”. I don’t like the association with poodle parlours.

However, I do believe that a polished appearance makes all the difference:

Tips

Skin Before you paint an old windowsill, you’d clean it, sand it and undercoat it, all before slapping on the gloss paint. Facials are the equivalent to priming avoid them at your peril.

Nails It’s time to be “nail aware”. If you’re not good with rubber gloves (no, not a “50 Shades” reference again,) and they chip and flake then try Shellac it gives you two weeks of glamorous digits without a scrap of latex in sight.

Shoe cleaning There’s something very satisfying about shoe cleaning. It is to boots what a blow dry is to your hair.

Invest in a couple of polishes and cloths, and give your footwear a new lease of life.

Hair

’’

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

FEBRUARY 2013

Wash & Go is no longer an option for ladies of a certain age (us). Get up to speed on products and invest a bit more time on the blow dry/curling options; make heated rollers your new BFF (best friend forever). Your hair might not be your crowning glory, but you owe it more than a quick shampoo and the occasional treat of a new scrunchie!

Make up For those who proudly tell me they don’t need make up you’re wrong. Every woman benefits from some cosmetics, you just need to find the right products. Trying out testers on the back of your hand might have worked when you were 14, but not so now. Invest in a modern makeover from somewhere like Space NK and sit back and wait for the compliments to roll in.

COTSWOLD STYLE 41

business

.gl generation The partnership signifies our commitment to promoting local and companies using a .gl domain on their advert will receive an advertising discount with us; the Chamber will be highlighting the first people to register their .gl company domain, as well as those who have the best use for them.

Fancy getting your hands on one? .gl domains can be registered at www.frankdomains.gl for as little as £38.

Read on to find out more about .gl and see how you could be using one!

Starting at the beginning...

Website domains (e.g. www.cotswoldstyle.co.uk) are one of the most important assets a business can have. They are unique, irreplaceable and sought after, and businesses need them to signpost their websites and drive their email addresses. Not only that, they can be used to give brands an edge, making companies memorable. Registering your company domain is a smart and necessary move, but have you ever thought about registering ‘sub brand’ domains or even campaign specific ones?

The answer is probably not!

Domains for your marketing...

If ever you run a project specific marketing campaign, use a sub brand within your business, or even just speculate about starting something new, domains are an opportunity to register your intentions and protect your brand.

Going beyond this, registering campaign specific domains can give your marketing the edge, creating traceable traffic, supporting satellite websites, giving you better SEO rankings (sometimes) or even just being a memorable URL. This does of course rely on that perfect domain being available, which is where .gl comes in...!

Worldwide, every country is assigned a

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This year, in a bid to promote local Gloucestershire business, Cotswold Style has partnered with The Gloucestershire Chamber and local company Frank Domains to launch a new domain based initiative. Working to support the business community and help ensure customers are getting to know local companies, .gl domains are now available for registration, enabling businesses to highlight their Gloucestershire roots

domain suffix, which gives rise to the different yet similar domains being available; for example .com or .co.uk.

Most of these suffixes are freely available for registration, but some countries restrict them for purchase by companies trading within their borders.

Following the dotcom internet boom and the rising demand for domains, Columbia saw an opportunity to commercialise its domain suffix (.co) by offering it to registrars worldwide as an acronym for ‘company’; Tuvalu did the same, leasing their .tv domain for an estimated $50million per annum royalties.

Greenland is the latest country to seize this opportunity, opening its .gl suffix for international registration. Whilst it may not have much appeal beyond the Greenland borders, imagine the possibility of a localised domain suffix for your Gloucestershire business!

Registering and using your domain...

If a .gl domain tickles your fancy, you can buy one online from www.frankdomains.gl and see how it can be used at www.cheltenham.gl. Frank Domains give you a unique login and support you in setting up your domain. You don’t have to use it to replace your main

THE BENEFITS OF REGISTERING .GL • A ‘local’ suffix to raise the profile of your Gloucestershire business • Pick from a wider range of available domains unlike .com and .co.uk, helping you find that perfect one!

• Track specific marketing campaigns to understand their performance • Support a satellite website dedicated to a specific Gloucestershire business services

company one; use it as well and have it pointing to a specific web page or to signpost a dedicated local microsite.

Frank Domains is a Gloucestershire based domain company offering registrations, renewals and transfers to companies across the Globe. The company aims to simplify the domain registration process and make it easy for both organisations and individuals to understand the process and be protected online. They are leaders in domain security, being the only registrar to offer bank style 2Factor security KeyFobs to protect your existing domains; the business has thrived developing a good reputation for its service and expertise. CS FEBRUARY 2013

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

Sponsored by

“The Conveyancing Experts�

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01452 657950 www.thomaslegalgroup.co.uk

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Montpellier, Cheltenham

A beautifully presented garden apartment in a handsome Grade II listed Regency town house, within an easy stroll of the fashionable shops, restaurants and bars in Montpellier.

Hamptons Cheltenham 01242 639414 email:cheltenham@hamptons int.com

Guide Price £295,000 • 2 bedrooms • 2 bath/shower rooms • Living/dining room • Kitchen • Allocated parking space • Decked courtyard garden

The Only National Agent With 5 Cotswold Offices.

At Hamptons International our unrivalled coverage of the Cotswolds and access to the key London market will ensure your property is seen by the widest possible audience. Call us now to arrange a free, no obligation market appraisal.

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

The Leigh, Gloucestershire

A charming period cottage, originally two smaller cottages that have been converted to form a larger detached residence with later extensions yet retaining much of its original character and charm.

Hamptons Cheltenham 01242 639414 email:cheltenham@hamptons int.com

Guide Price: £475,000 • 3/4 bedrooms • 2 reception rooms • Conservatory • Kitchen/breakfast room • Parking and generous gardens • Large outbuilding with cloakroom

It’s Important To Make Time For The Things You Love.

At Hamptons International we know your move is important to you and so our knowledge, expertise of the local market and personal service can take the strain out of moving.

Leaving you free to relax, safe in the knowledge that everything’s being taken care of.

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Beyond your expectations www.hamptons.co.uk

Painswick, Gloucestershire £800pcm Unfurnished

Gretton, Gloucestershire £3300pcm Unfurnished

Hamptons Cheltenham 01242 263559 email@hamptons int.com

Hamptons Cheltenham 01242 263559 email@hamptons int.com

Leckhampton, Cheltenham £1475pcm Unfurnished

Lansdown, Cheltenham £595pcm Furnished

Charming newly refurbished two bedroom cottage in the very heart of the Painswick village. This beautifully presented property comprises sitting room with stone fireplace, kitchen/dining with French doors accessing courtyard garden, utility room/WC, two double bedrooms and bathroom with shower over bath. The property has been refurbished through including new GCH and boiler, carpets, decor, fixtures and fittings.

An attractive family residence tucked away in a quiet backwater in this highly regarded village. The property has colour washed rendered elevations under a pitched roof with a lovely sweeping lawned rear garden. The property comprises entrance hall, garden room, sitting room/conservatory/dining room, games room, kitchen/breakfasting room with Rayburn, TV room/snug, study, master double bedroom with en-suite, three further double bedrooms and bathroom with separate shower cubicle.

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Delightful Grade II listed Regency townhouse with original period features throughout including cornicing and stone period fireplaces. Located in the sought after Leckhampton area of Cheltenham the fully refurbished property comprises hallway, double aspect sitting room with feature fireplace, dining room leading onto decked terrace and private rear garden, kitchen with doors leading to dining room, two double bedrooms, designer bathroom with free standing bath, limestone walk-in shower and Kohler fittings.

Hamptons Cheltenham 01242 263559 email@hamptons int.com

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A spacious one bedroom garden apartment located within walking distance of Cheltenham town centre. This bright and sunny apartment comprises hallway with utility cupboard, sitting room/dining, kitchen, double bedroom with fitted wardrobes and door leading to courtyard and bathroom with shower. Benefits include gas CH, unallocated off-street parking, sash windows and great location.

Hamptons Cheltenham 01242 263559 email@hamptons int.com

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hot property

Wellington Square Cheltenham Setting the scene: An imposing Grade II listed Victorian former Rectory set within generous grounds on the north west corner of Wellington Square. The square is situated on the north side of Cheltenham town centre, close to Pittville Park and is recognised as being one of Cheltenham’s most impressive locations.

Why we love it: The Old Rectory was designed by the highly acclaimed architect John Midddleton and is a particularly imposing detached home. The house has been the subject of a significant programme of extension and renovation over the past few years and is presented in immaculate order throughout, with a plethora of period features including stone mullioned windows, fireplaces and coffered ceilings. A delightful hallway with original tiled floor leads to the two impressive reception rooms, both of which have wonderful proportions and period features. There is a study and cloakroom on this level then a few steps down to the well fitted kitchen, dining room and lovely garden room. There is a useful laundry room with direct access to the double tandem garage. Upstairs there are 5 well-proportioned double bedrooms, 4 with en suite facilities the other served by a delightful family bathroom. To the rear of the house there is a paved terraced courtyard and an area of lawn.

Guide Price: ÂŁ1,500,000 Details: Knight Frank, Cheltenham; 01242 246 959; nick.chivers@knightfrank.com; www.knightfrank.co.uk/CHE060086

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hot property

Painswick Road Cheltenham Setting the scene: A delightful Grade II listed town house, forming part of an impressive terrace in the highly desirable Suffolks. The house is presented in lovely order, with very elegant accommodation, selfcontained space if needed and a pretty west facing town garden.

Why we love it: Set back from Painswick Road behind an attractive frontage and traditional wrought iron railings, this fine period home forms part of a classic terrace of listed houses. The house is in excellent order and is full of original features, complimented by tasteful decor and quality fittings.

On the raised ground floor is the dining room, which leads to a smartly appointed kitchen with ornate ceiling mouldings and French doors opening out to a delightful sun room. On the first floor is the drawing room and sitting room with cloakroom on the mezzanine below. The second floor is arranged as a master suite with double bedroom to the front served by a large luxury en-suite bathroom and adjacent dressing room (used previously as bedroom 2). The third floor is occupied by bedroom 3, a lovely room with roof top views and served by a very smart en-suite shower. The garden level rooms could be used as a self-contained apartment if required and outside, there is a pretty and private town garden.

Guide Price: ÂŁ725,000 Details: Knight Frank, Cheltenham. 01242 246959. sue.healey@knightfrank.com. www.knightfrank.co.uk/che120286

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hot property

The Bothy & Mulberry Cottages

Mulberry Cottage Sitting Room

Puckrup, Nr Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire Setting the Scene: The Bothy and Mulberry Cottage are situated in the hamlet of Puckrup, overlooking a village cricket pitch and adjoining the Puckrup Hotel and Golf Club which itself is set in 140 acres of private grounds. Puckrup is an accessible hamlet, approximately two miles North of Tewkesbury which boasts a beautiful Abbey.

Why we love it: Set in a small hamlet yet within an accessible location, The Bothy is a spacious period home with a self contained attached cottage known as Mulberry Cottage. Believed to originally date from the 16th Century and Listed Grade II, the property contains features including many exposed beams and timbers, some lovely wooden and stone flooring, an attractive staircase and Inglenook fireplace. Currently two self contained properties, Mulberry Cottage was created from one wing of the building and has been providing a useful income. It could continue to do so, though the properties could be combined to create one home, or may be ideal for several generations to live together. Outside, there is a detached double garage, parking, useful potting sheds and greenhouse as well as attractive and mature walled gardens. The Bothy: Drawing room, sitting room, kitchen/breakfast room, two cellars, four bedrooms, three bath/shower rooms, double garage.

Mulberry Cottage: kitchen/breakfast room, sitting room, shower room, two bedrooms, bathroom parking, mature walled gardens.

Guide Price: ÂŁ595,000; Details: Savills, Cheltenham; Tel: 01242 548 000 www.savills.co.uk

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Mulberry Cottage Kitchen FEBRUARY 2013

hot property

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hot property

Leckhampton Setting the scene: An attractive traditional semi-detached family residence offering well-proportioned accommodation situated on the lower slopes of Leckhampton Hill.

Why we love it: It is beautifully presented being a stylish family home with well proportioned accommodation. Of particular note is the large kitchen/dining room freeing up the second reception room to be another living room. We also like the modern bathroom with its roll top bath and large walk in shower.

Price: ÂŁ450,000 Freehold Details: Hamptons, Cheltenham. Tel: 01242 639414 cheltenham@hamptons-int.com

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hot property

Seventy Nine, The Park Cheltenham Setting the scene: A new-home temptation too good to miss. Offering the ultimate in style and location, Seventy Nine The Park, in Cheltenham, brings contemporary living to one of the most sought-after address in town. The collection of just nine exceptionally spacious two- and three-bedroom apartments and one luxurious penthouse, by housebuilder of the year Linden Homes, has already attracted the attention of discerning buyers, with four properties sold before the show apartment is even open.

Why we love it: Located in the beautiful and prestigious address of The Park, the light contemporary-designed building, landscaped gardens and gated entrance, sits perfectly in this tree-lined road, perfectly complementing the surrounding Georgian villas. Inside, Linden’s renowned attention to detail is evident with every fixture, fitting and finishing touch exuding quality. The beautiful area of Montpellier is just a short walk away, with its cafes, bistros, boutiques and bookshops that give it a positively continental feel. Cheltenham is one of the UK’s most handsome towns and coupled with the elegant and sophisticated architecture and award- winning gardens, it’s a vibrant and dynamic place to set up home. What’s more, there’s an impressive range of retail therapy opportunities to enjoy, as well as an equally impressive range of places to relax and refresh afterwards. Situated on the edge of the Cotswolds, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Cheltenham offers the best in town and country living. Just a short drive out and you’ll find yourself in the middle of rolling hills and spectacular scenery – perfect for walking, cycling or simply enjoying being out in the fresh air. With easy access to the M5 motorway and Cheltenham Spa mainline rail station, providing direct access to London and, beyond, the location really does offer the best in town and country living.

Prices Start from: £309,995 for a two-bedroom apartment and £549,995 for a three-bedroom apartment.

Details: All interested buyers can register to be kept up-to-date on the development at: lindenhomes.co.uk/seventynine or call 0844 488 3205 for more information.

FEBRUARY 2013

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Suppliers of fine kitchen work surfaces in quartz and granite

Montpellier Marble Ltd 800 Ashville Business Park , (Behind Mercedes Benz) STAVERTON, Glos GL2 9QJ Telephone 01452 714800

www.montpellier.co.uk

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

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Offer available between 1st December 2012 and 28th February 2013. While stocks last at participating Stressless® retailers only.

gardening

February

fragrance

‘‘

Gloucestershire Horticulturalist Camilla Bassett-Smith has a wealth of experience on high profile gardening TV output and holds a Chelsea Gold Medal.

Cheltenham born and bred and Editor of The Daffodil Society, Camilla sings the delights of a witchy winter colour explosion….

It’s February and the waft of spring is just within reach and so time for a final winter sprinkle of scent and colour before we welcome the horticultural rainbow to come.

I was going to write about Hacquetia epipactis, a quite exquisite little lime green perennial shade lover, that resembles a daisy or primrose, however a good friend of mine in Cheltenham, Damaris Hayman, suggested the eye catching Hamamelis (or witch hazel).I thought it not wise to turn down an idea from the lady well known for playing the white witch in Doctor Who: The Daemons!

So to the winter flower that explodes from the ends of bare branches like a party popper, or a shredded cocktail umbrella. This confident shrub not only brightens the darkest corner but sweetens the air that you breath.

Hamamelis mollis is no doubt the most popular, this Chinese witch hazel is reliable, bright butter yellow and a nasal relish! The RHS awarded it an AGM, an honour also bestowed upon the sulphur yellow Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Pallida’

FEBRUARY 2013

with Camilla Bassett-Smith

believed to be one of the best witch hazels to grace the gardens of RHS Wisley. For a splash of bright red, you can’t do better than Hamamelis x intermedia ‘Diane’.

Originating in North America and East Asia, a sheltered position is favoured in sun or partial shade. There is a preference for neutral to acid soils and moisture throughout the year. Provided a little care is offered and shrubs remain un disturbed in the ground, this is one winter purchase that you will not regret.

The common name ‘witch hazel’ points to its history as a wood used for dowsing. Witches were often associated with this method of using pliable twigs to search for water below ground. The Old English word ‘wice’ translates as ‘bendable’ and so describes well the wood of the Hamamelis and could also account for the ‘witch’ part of the name.

Hazel was also used for dowsing and so an understandable reference for so

Medicinal values of Hamamelis are well known and there is something pretty special about a fresh white cotton ball of fluff coated with the healing scent of witch hazel heading towards a bruise of huge proportions! similar a wood, it also carries a similar leaf to Hamamelis.

Medicinal values of Hamamelis are well known and there is something pretty special about a fresh white cotton ball of fluff coated with the healing scent of witch hazel heading towards a bruise of huge proportions! Lotions containing witch hazel are also very calming on a gardener’s roughened and swollen hands.

Native Americans were huge fans of the plant and believed that the Great Spirit had made the plant attractive in order to catch their eye leading to their discovery of the plant’s astringent values. In 19th Century New York, a certain Mr Pond began to sell extract of Witch Hazel as a medicine known as ‘Golden Treasure’.

Years later this became known as ‘Pond’s Extract’ and having moved into the facial care industry, the Pond’s cream we still know today.

If Superman/woman were a plant, this would be it: brightness where there is dark, bursting with enthusiasm and good intention and able to calm and sooth those around. What more could you want?! CS

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FEBRUARY 2013

gardening

“They were as we are” Sudeley Castle’s Head Gardener, Jon Hodder, comments on the changing of the seasons...

with Jon Hodder And so the New Year is fully upon us.

Already the aconites’ yellow petals brighten the dun tones of the garden borders. Before too long spring will be with us and the darkness of winter’s depth once again receding into the moistened past.

Welcome the return of the light, and celebrate a connection with our Iron Age ancestors who saw in their surroundings and in the changing of the seasons, magic and wonder. The ancient past is not just around us, it is within us, a shadowy echo: feelings half encountered, and then passed by in the headlong rush of modern living. The people who made and used the artefacts that you look at behind the museum glass would know

FEBRUARY 2013

our condition. They disliked the rains as much as we do; they lay in the warming sun as we do; laughed joked and cried, embraced and drew apart. They were as we are.

These museums, these Historic Houses, they are not dead: they are very much alive, if only you stop to consider their story and the stories of that which they contain. If beauty is indeed in the eye of the beholder, then history is in the mind of the imaginer. It is who we are and where we have come from. Do not view it as something detached from us, see it as an unending trail stretching back further than we could ever hope to see.

Without history, surely we are nothing?

At Sudeley, opportunistic bulbs are appearing through the turf, the green blades drawn upwards by the lengthening days. The mild conditions we are experiencing as I write this are almost spring like and the sunshine most welcome. However, we will be fortunate indeed if we can get through this winter without any hard weather. The large flock of fieldfares I heard on the home park only yesterday may yet tell of hard weather on the way. They will have been driven south by harsh conditions nearer to the Arctic Circle and the Baltic. The fieldfare is on the Red list. This means that it is globally threatened and has seen a UK population decline of over 50% in

the last 25 years. Once again I find myself highlighting the plight of our fading native fauna. But what can we do?

Become involved in any way that you can. From erecting nest boxes to actively volunteering to carry out survey work during your holiday time. It all counts. If enough people care we have a chance to make a difference.

In the garden at this time of year I often enjoy the company of a quiet bonfire. Nothing of the Guy Fawkes nature: more a slow burning and peaceful welcome to the New Year. The sort of fire that will gently scent the afternoon air as you poke about in the garden before a well earned afternoon cup of tea: the sort of fire that will usually trickle on for several days, gently smouldering away, as if waiting for the spring.

If you haven’t started, you might think of beginning to prune your roses, but watch out for the frosts. CS Check our website for the latest details of winter opening hours www.sudeleycastle.co.uk/ or call 01242 602308.

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

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business

PHOTO: www.shoottheday.co.uk

Left to right: Phil Huggins, Neville Mills, Paul Baldwin, Nick Hughes

Brunsdon Insurance and Financial Services have now opened an office in the heart of Cheltenham, based in Eagle Tower. We hear from group directors Paul Ba aldw win and Nevville Millss… ‘

Welcome to CHELTENHAM!

In the current economy, many companies are contracting and tightening their belts, but one Gloucester based firm is bucking the trend and looking to the future.

Brunsdon Insurance and Financial Services celebrated its 80th anniversary last year by opening an office in the Forest of Dean at Mitcheldean’s Vantage Point Business Village, and kicked off 2013 with another office in Cheltenham’s Eagle Tower.

Brunsdon Director Paul Baldwin explained the thinking behind the expansion as not only an eye to the future, but a nod to the past. “What goes around comes around. Gilbert Brunsdon started the company in 1932 with an office in Gloucester’s city centre selling insurance to farmers, followed by offices in Hereford, Swindon and all points west!

However a few years ago, due to new technology and changes in the way business was being transacted, we decided to consolidate in our Gloucester base. But now we are definitely on the move again, and are also looking even further afield.”

Paul swopped his role of Financial FEBRUARY 2013

Adviser for Operations Director last year and expansion was part of his brief. “We have a lot to offer the people of Cheltenham and I’m determined our brand will become as well known here as it now is in Gloucester, “ he says.

Paul, together with fellow Director Neville Mills have set up a small but strong team in Cheltenham, including Commercial Insurance Executive, Phil Huggins and Financial Adviser, Nick Hughes, both well known, experienced figures in the industry.

Neville takes up the story. “We earnestly believe that to do business in a community, you have to be part of it.

That’s why we felt a Cheltenham town centre location was a must. That’s our ethos, really. We need to be approachable to all our clients. Our Mitcheldean office launch has been very successful and we hope and expect that our Cheltenham office will put us firmly on the map here.”

Paul agrees. “Our expansion programme is very carefully considered and we’re convinced we’re going in the right direction. At the same time we’re

always mindful of the competition and have no intention of becoming complacent.”

Brunsdon really is ‘a firm for all seasons.’ Known as a composite broker, with expertise and experience across the whole market of insurance and financial services, it specialises in high quality commercial insurance, employee benefits, financial advice and investment funds, and its clients range from small enterprises to household name plcs, leaders of industry and discerning individuals with complex financial planning requirements.

Now, that sounds like a great addition to the Cheltenham business community! CS Brunsdons Financial Services Ltd Suite 110 Eagle Tower, Montpellier Drive, Cheltenham, Glos GL50 1TA 01242 279986 www.brunsdon.co.uk

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competition

WIN a 2 night Luxury Jersey Break at CHÂTEAU LA CHAIRE including return flights

CHÂTEAU LA CHAIRE

An historic country house, the elegant Château La Chaire has been enhanced and transformed into a luxury 14 bedroom hotel providing exceptional levels of comfort and service. Many of the bedrooms feature balconies overlooking the remains of the famous terraced gardens, which were once the finest of their day being created in 1841 by Samuel Curtis, the famous botanist and director of Kew Gardens..

Originally built in the 1800’s as a gracious private home, nestled against the cliffs of the wonderful wooded valley of Rozel, the Château La Chaire is now recognised by the major guides as one of the finest small hotels in the British Isles.

The hotel offers a range of stylish accommodation, including a spectacular split level suite and many rooms with feature beds, private balconies and ensuite whirlpool bathrooms. Luxury toiletries and soft towelling robes are provided in all rooms. The award winning La Chaire Restaurant combines the Gallic influence of romantic France with the traditions of British fayre and the abundant availability of fresh local produce to stunning effect.

The cool green valley in which the Château sits stretches down through winding paths to the colourful fishing village of Rozel and the shoreline with its delightful beach and cove. The stillness, tinkling stream, spectacular cliff top walks and unique gardens, are features to both covet and treasure. The Chateau is ideal for both luxury holidays and short breaks.

The Chateau is a part of the Hatton Hotel Collection that includes: Hatton Court Hotel, Upton St Leonards, The Snooty Fox at Tetbury, The White Hart Inn, Winchcombe and The Corner House Hotel, Taunton.

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COMPETITION PRIZE

Your prize is inclusive of two nights in a superior suite inclusive of full Jersey breakfast each morning, Jersey cream tea each afternoon, five course candlelit dinner in La Chaire Restaurant each evening, group A hire car , bottle of Champagne and chocolates in your room on arrival, a full day island coach tour on one day of your stay and return flights from a choice of UK airports.

Departing on any Sunday, Monday or Tuesday between 1st November 2013 and 15th March 2014 subject to availability at time of enquiry. Not valid for Christmas & New Year package dates.

To win this great prize just e-mail the answer to the following question to: voucher@hatton-hotels.co.uk with ‘Chateau Competition’ as the subject line

Who created the Chateau gardens? Was it

a. Samuel Jackson b. Samuel Johnson c. Samuel Curtis The details of all senders of correct answers will be put into a raffle and the lucky winner will be drawn at random and notified by 28th March 2013 via e mail. You may enter in writing by sending a postcard with your answer to Chateau La Chaire Cotswold Style Competition 2013, Hatton Hotels, Upton Hill, Upton St Leonards, Gloucester, GL4 8DE.

READER OFFER

Unique luxury Jersey break offer from Chateau La Chaire. Book any 3 or more night’s half board winter break at Chateau la Chaire and receive the following benefits unique to Cotswold Style Readers.

• Room service Champagne breakfast on one morning of your stay • A full day island coach tour on one day of your stay

Prices start from just £90 per person per night in a classic room and you can take advantage of our Free Flights offer AS WELL! You can upgrade to a room with ensuite whirlpool bathroom from just £20 per person per night. See www.chateau-la-chaire.co.uk for details, full booking terms and conditions and date exclusions. Bookings must be made direct with Chateau La Chaire quoting ‘Style2013’

The Small Print Valid for departures from UK between 1st February and 30th April 2013. Price includes Group A hire car , accommodation as booked , Full Jersey breakfast each morning, Jersey cream tea each afternoon and a 5 course candlelit dinner in La Chaire Restaurant each evening of your stay. Reservations can only be made direct with Chateau La Chaire. All extras must be paid for on departure. Quote ‘Style2013’ when booking. Full pre payment required at the time of booking which is non refundable in the event of cancellation. Charges for hire car fuel, hire licence fee and insurance are payable locally and not included in any prize or package.

We recommend that you take out travel insurance. Coach tour does not run on Saturdays.

FEBRUARY 2013

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fashion style over the following pages we highlight the latest fashion trends...

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S T E PH A N I E BAT E S

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Collection Pieces |Commission & Bespoke Designs | Engagement,Wedding & Civil Partnership Bands | Re sizing & Repair work (Silver, Gold, Platinum) | Re designing undertaken for existing pieces of jewellery.

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FEBRUARY 2013

See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

Lola’s fifth anniversary celebrations Friends and customers enjoy raffles, drinks and fashion in aid of The Timmy Mason Trust at Lola’s five year anniversary Thanksgiving party.

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Photography by Angus Bathune

FEBRUARY 2013

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Lights, Camera, Action!

Blenheim Palace opens for the new season with a special exhibition: ‘Lights, Camera, Action – Blenheim Palace, the Star of TV and Film’ From feature films Gulliver's Travels and Harry Potter, to ITV’s Lewis, and BBC documentaries, find out what happens at the Palace when film crews descend!

9th February - 1st April 2013

Only 8 miles from Oxford in the midst of the Oxfordshire Cotswolds Buy One Day, Get 12 Months Free Terms & conditions apply For information visit: blenheimpalace.com or call 0800 849 6500 like us on facebook www.facebook.com/blenheimpalace

Britain’s Greatest Palace

fashion

Beards white gold 5 row diamond ring. £4,295

Beards 3 stone diamond ring in platinum. 1.12ct. £4,770

Beards platinum 3 stone diamond ring. £3,470

Beards platinum full eternity ring. Prices start from £1,700

Beards Asscher cut diamond engagement ring £33,000

The Diamond Ring brought to you by

Want to design your own engagement or wedding ring? Beards Bespoke design service is on hand to help.

To book an appointment, call us on 01242 516238, or pop in and see us at 70 The Promenade, Cheltenham.

www.beards.co.uk FEBRUARY 2013

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

Melissa Antonious fashions at The Greenway Hotel Despite the heavy snowfall the fashion conscious of Cheltenham braved the freezing winter conditions to see Cotswold designer Melissa Antonious' latest collection at The Greenway Hotel . They were not disappointed with what proved to be another inspirational collection. Melissa saaid:�Once again the audience were delightful in their praise and I was overwhelmed with their warm response.� Also featured were hats designed by Ferniche Millinery.

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Photography by Rob Wheatman

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FEBRUARY 2013

fashion

Art Couture Painswick This month, Art Couture Painswick announces two new Honorary Patrons, and we feature the creative musical side of this major arts festival Three Honorary Patrons Last summer Todd Lynn, designer to the likes of Beyoncé, PJ Harvey and Rihanna, became Honorary Patron of Art Couture Painswick. He is now joined

by Carole Waller, the Bath based artist.

Carole works with colour, light, textiles, glass, dyes and paint. Mary Wing To, outright winner of the World of Wearable Art competition in New Zealand last year has become a third Honorary Patron. Mary is a designer, saddler and leather artist and was a judge at Art Couture Painswick in 2012.

Find out more: toddlynn.com; marywingto.com; carolewaller.co.uk

Music at Art Couture Painswick The Festival celebrates cutting edge art of all kinds, and music has always been a key part of the event. This year Kate Danielson has joined the team (katedanielson.co.uk). Kate told us: ‘I was delighted to be asked to take over live entertainment for Art Couture. As a first time visitor in 2012, I was overwhelmed by the atmosphere, the amazing outfits and by the quality of the performers. I knew then I wanted to be involved.

I worked at Cheltenham Festivals for 7 years, running the Jazz Festival until 2008.

I love supporting up and coming young musicians and I’m looking forward to choosing local performers to help create the Art Couture Painswick Festival atmosphere and provide the perfect backdrop for the art on display all round the village.’

Pictures from top: Tom McNair, Tim Mahendran, Laura Jay Bayston and George Montague making music at the Art Couture Painswick 2012 Festival

Images: McPherson Stevens

‘Hylenome’ by Mary Wing To. Photo: World of Wearable Art

Entries for the Art Couture Painswick Festival competition are now open.

Places are limited so visit the website soon and get those creative juices flowing!

Quality art, craft, produce and food stall-holders are also invited to apply for pitches at the 2013 festival.

Application forms are on the website.

www.acpfestival.co.uk info@acpfestival.co.uk FEBRUARY 2013

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hair doctor

SEASONAL SOLUTIONS winter hair care tips Warmth, cold, UV rays and strong winds are all factors that can affect our hair and cause damage which can be difficult to repair. Here are some tips to help you protect your hair from the damage that cold weather can cause…

The cold temperatures and strong winds of winter are the key factors to damaging hair and causing it to become dry. Dry hair appears dull, brittle and lifeless. Stressed hair that has lost its moisture can be difficult to style. To make sure that your hair is protected against the damaging elements that winter brings with it, we recommend adopting a winter hair care routine.

Always wash your hair with a moisturising shampoo. Do not use a shampoo that is harsh and could strip the natural oils from your hair. Natural oil produced by the scalp acts like a natural barrier against damaging external factors.

Always blow dry your hair completely before you go out, if the hair is left damp it can be vulnerable to harsh conditions, which will cause your hair to become dry and frizzy.

Treat your hair once a week to a deep conditioning treatment to restore and maintain the moisture levels. This does require a little more time as they need to

be left on for about half an hour, however this is essential for maintaining the moisture and shine in your hair.

SEASONAL SOLUTIONS Transform your hair with liquid luxury. One drop of Luxe oil could change your hair life. With precious and luxurious oils from around the world, new System Professional Luxe oil transforms the texture of your hair and leaves it ten times smoother. It uses reconstructive technology that benefits hair inside and out, while protecting it from damage. It has keratin protection providing instant and long lasting smoothness. It leaves the hair looking healthy and naturally beautiful. Luxe oil contains three special oils: Argan oil, known as liquid gold and famous for its nourishing, cosmetic and medicinal qualities.

Almond oil, known for its superior hydrating power and lightweight properties.

Jojoba oil, renowned for its cosmetic value and particularly suitable for fragile and dry ends.

Available from Laura Leigh Hairdressing for £25

‘‘

“Make sure that you have your hair trimmed regularly to ensure you remove any split ends. Changes in temperature can put stress on the hair and cause breakage” Scalp massages can definitely help your hair as massaging the scalp will improve blood circulation, making sure all the nutrients necessary for healthy hair are increased.

Make sure that you have your hair trimmed regularly to ensure that you remove any split ends.

Changes in temperature can put stress on the hair and cause breakage. Care for your hair, because healthy hair is the only solution to obtaining gorgeous hair styles and for retaining your colour. CS

Laura Leigh Hairdressing, Lower Ground Floor, 105 The Promenade, Cheltenham, GL50 1NW, Tel:01242 530598; www.lauraleighhairdressing.co.uk FEBRUARY 2013

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beauty

The look of love This Valentine’s Day treat yourself to an Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion© Facial and instantly boost your wow factor!

If you think that ‘red carpet’ treatments are only for celebrities, then you are in for a treat. Dr Zulia Frost and her team at A List Aesthetics Cheltenham have the ultimate non invasive power packed facial that made its way from the Hollywood circuit to the high street with aplomb this year: the Intraceuticals Oxygen Infusion© Facial.

Here is why we love it so much....

Set the scene Using a little jet of oxygen to push the hydrating serum, as well as a prescriptive blend of natural and active ingredients, deep into the skin, is big on effect and wonderfully soothing and relaxing, too.

There is no harsh exfoliation or stripping of the skin, just a blissful hour of feeding the skin with what it needs most.

Create a Glow

Based on deep hydration, collagen enhancers as well as skin brightening oxygen, this has long been a favourite with Madonna (who travels with her facialist and oxygen machine when on tour), Miranda Kerr, Eva Longoria (who has one before every major event) and more recently Kim Kadashian.

For a lit from within radiance, an infusion with a unique natural botanical high in stable Vitamin C and other powerful antioxidants is used to brighten the complexion and leave you with beautiful dewy skin.

Pump up the volume The deeply hydrating effects of the infusion together with Collagen enhancers will instantly plump up cheeks, lift the jawline and smooth out the neck area, addressing saggy skin and loss of contour, thus giving your skin a more youthful appearance.

Open your Eyes Give tired eyes a lift and diminish under eye circles with a powerful cocktail of natural antioxidants. If you want to fight fine lines and wrinkles, Atoxelene, a natural Botox alternative, works wonders for relaxing muscular contractions and helping to hold back the years.

Keep Lips Kissable Aim for soft, plump and natural looking lips.

Moisture binding Hyaluronic acid is

FEBRUARY 2013

infused into the lips, to help them look fuller, redefine the lip line and banish any dryness.

Our personal, most favourite part of the treatment!

So, dear Valentine, what are you waiting for?

Go and get the celebrity’s favourite treatment, enjoy instant results and dazzle!

And while one treatment is good for that special occasion, a course of three is perfect. CS • Gift vouchers available

A-List Aesthetics Maple House, Bayshill Road, Cheltenham, GL50 3AW Office: 01242 210966 Mobile: 07779 334813 Email: drzulia@ a-listaesthetics.com

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

The Cheltenham Supper Club A most successful and fun evening organised by the charming Joanne Taylor of The Cheltenham Supper Club held at The Suffolk Kitchen.

This social event was enjoyed by 30 guests of varying ages both single and couples. The friendly team at The Suffolk Kitchen provided excellent food and service for all gratefully appreciated by all the guests.

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Photography by Craig Derrick Photography Ltd

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business style In this month’s business style we talk to...

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FEBRUARY 2013

business

Where will you go for financial advice?

Brunsdon Financial Services CEO Brian Morman explains why it’s getting harder to find a financial adviser Have you needed to seek financial advice lately? If so, you’ll have realised that the financial services landscape has changed. In fact, it’s undergone a major metamorphosis! Since the beginning of this year, the industry has had to face arguably its biggest shake up in decades, courtesy of the Retail Distribution Review (RDR).

RDR has required Advisers to obtain higher qualifications as a benchmark for giving advice and commission has been stopped on most products, so Advisers now have to agree fees with their clients for the work they do and the advice they give.

So that should be pretty good news for the consumer, shouldn’t it? Well, yes and no. Clearly, any measures that improve standards, transparency and public confidence should be wholeheartedly applauded. But in terms of fees, it could lead to the marginalisation of some consumers. It also means that it will become increasingly difficult to access a financial adviser. Why? Because many advisers have decided not to carry on in the post RDR environment or have been forced out by their employers.

Twenty years ago, at a time when the financial services industry was largely self regulated, there were more than 200,000 registered individuals dispensing financial advice. Now, there are just one tenth of that number still practising. (Source:www.ifaonline.co.uk).

The banks are no longer a source of advice for the majority, either. In the run up to RDR, most of the major banks HSBC, RBS and Barclays, for example dramatically culled their financial adviser workforces and now only offer advice to their wealthiest clients, directing the ‘mass market’ customers to non advisory, online FEBRUARY 2013

services. This will restrict access to products such as ISAs, trusts and bonds that many people have traditionally bought from their banks. The days when the bank manager invited you in for a friendly chat about your finances seem to have passed. You’ll now have to be more proactive in seeking advice.

This view was reinforced for me when I recently met and talked to the heads of two large, household name banking institutions. I have to say that I gained the distinct impression they were more interested in protecting the interests of their companies in the wake of the various mis selling episodes, than imparting any positive messages for their customers.

Whilst I fully believe and accept that online services are part of the bigger picture going forward in financial services, and are fine for the more clued up investors, they will not be suitable for many consumers who need to rely on face to face advice, where the infinite variables of personal circumstances and requirements can be explored and taken into account. In this respect, RDR appears to have inadvertently created an ‘advice gap’ which could leave people floundering and not knowing where to turn.

However, some financial services firms, particularly those offering online facilities, believe this will result in many

making unilateral, DIY decisions about their investments. But interestingly, even those companies concede that in more complex areas of financial planning, or where confidence is lacking, nothing beats the benefit of one to one, qualified advice.

At Brunsdon, we enter this new age of financial services fully prepared.

Our client facing advisers are all highly qualified and experienced. Our service proposition for both private and corporate clients is professional, comprehensive and adaptable and our fee charging system transparent and flexible. Our reputation has been, and will continue to be, based on providing the very best service for our clients.

RDR may have raised the stakes in financial services, but we continue to be a significant participator.

So, if your bank can no longer help you, then who will you call for your financial advice? CS

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

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

Web: www.brunsdon.co.uk

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Cotswold Style

The essential living guide for The Cotswolds

Cotswold Style Digital is the online version of the highly successful and inspirational lifestyle title Cotswold Style Magazine and is the online guide to what’s on and what’s happening in the Cotswolds and Gloucestershire.

Packed with fabulous engaging content, money saving vouchers and amazing free to enter competitions… It’s the only guide to the Cotswolds.

The ideal opportunity to promote your business and services to a highly targeted audience. Call us now eric@stylemagazines.co.uk (editorial) karl@stylemagazines.co.uk (advertising)

90 COTSWOLD STYLE

| www.cotswoldstyle.co.uk | 01242 220239

FEBRUARY 2013

business

‘‘

“When there is light at the end of the tunnel – is it the tax man holding a torch?”

The tax end of year is approaching and all of us have felt our financial situations getting tougher. Divorcing couples have found sorting out their financial settlements very difficult when there are few liquid assets to divide between them. Many people have been looking at ways to cut their overheads and of maximising the value of their assets by exercising legitimate ways of minimising their tax liabilities.

Divorcing couples (not separating co habitants) have long been able to take advantage of tax concessions on Capital Gains Tax which would otherwise be payable on the transfer of capital assets between them but only if the transfers occur within the same tax year as they permanently separate.

Different tax offices interpret permanent separation in diverse ways and the law isn’t definitive on the point.

Some times the Revenue interpret the “start” date as being the date one party moves out. “Permanent” is only shown

FEBRUARY 2013

with Carolyn Green by a Divorce Petition being issued even though of course those proceedings could be stopped.

Most divorcing couples carry out their financial asset transfers once they have the security of a final financial Court Order. This type of Order can only be made after Decree Nisi has been pronounced and all of this needs to be done within the same tax year to use the tax concessions. Couples who decide to divorce in the last quarter of the tax year will not be able to achieve this.

Separation timing can therefore become an important practical consideration. Once the legitimate concessions are lost by time expiry they cannot be regained. It is therefore especially important at this time of year

Many people have been looking at ways to cut their overheads and of maximising the value of their assets by exercising legitimate ways of minimising their tax liabilities

to consider what steps you are able to take to utilise any tax concession available to you. CS For further information and advice, please contact Carolyn Green on 01242 246457 or email Carolyn on carolyn.green@rickerbys.com

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business

EXPERIENCE COUNTS… Eric Barton meets up with the team at specialist law firm Festival Law We all need highly trained experienced professionals to administer the finer points of help and guidance in many areas. None more so than in the field of law… and particularly personal injury medical negligence and industrial disease claims.

The team of legal experts at Festival Law in Cheltenham is made up of Partners, Julia Briano and Ann Marie Whelan who are joined by Senior Lawyers, Peter Lodge and Mark Ovington. Any client who comes to Festival Law can be assured that their case will be dealt with by a Lawyer who has over fifteen years of individual experience in handling these types of niche cases. The team have worked together since the early nineties and are a rarity in that they’re all Cheltenham born and bred and so have a unique handle on the local business scene. In a World of call centres and voice automated drone like options, it’s refreshing to note that Festival Law have more of a personal touch. Julia Briano comments, “We feel it’s hugely important that all our clients can contact us directly and speak with us FEBRUARY 2013

“The team have worked together since the early nineties and are a rarity in that they’re all Cheltenham born and bred and so have a unique handle on the local business scene” personally at all times.” Now that is comforting. Ann Marie Whelan adds, “We really encourage our clients to pop in and see us, or if that’s not possible we’re more than happy to make a home visit.” It is reassuring that this advice is all free with no costs up front or other hidden charges. There’s a clear message from the outset when you appoint the team at Festival Law to take up your case. It’s pivotal on giving you honest, practical advice from the very beginning, keeping you updated throughout the whole process of any claim and ensuring that you receive the full compensation you’re entitled to. Ann Marie Whelan is adamant when she further comments, “If your injury claim is accepted on a no win no fee basis, then you will receive 100% of your compensation. It’s as simple as that”. Only recently the team have settled damage claims ranging from

£2,500 to over £500,000.

They are a very close knit team of highly trained professionals who believe in putting their clients first. The vast majority of their work comes from personal recommendations and not from some faceless claims injury company.

Peter Lodge simply says, “We are all on the same wavelength here which can only be a good thing for our clients”.

None of us can really afford to be off work these days if an accident happens and it’s reassuring to know that there’s a dedicated team of experienced professionals able and willing to take up your case to make a claim on your behalf. CS For more information www.festivallaw.co.uk Tel 01242 633776 /0800 669 6012

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business

The business provides marketing, public relations (PR) and general business consultancy on an ongoing basis to 15 businesses in and around Gloucestershire and has completed projects for many more. Darren has had a career spanning more than 25 years in Marketing & PR, which began with Bang & Olufsen. He spent over 20 years with Chelsea Building Society where he went on to become Marketing and Customer Services Director. When the Chelsea merged with the Yorkshire Building Society, Darren was made redundant and took the decision to set up Prestbury Marketing and Consulting.

Darren explains how the business operates. “We offer Marketing and PR services by the hour, day or longer, as and when our clients have a need. They benefit from access to a senior level Marketing or PR resource, without the fixed overheads. In some cases we are working with in house marketing employees in other cases we are the only marketing and PR resource and we quickly become regarded as part of the team”.

“Typically, clients are either looking to improve the effectiveness of their marketing or they are looking for advice and guidance on how best to take their business to the next stage in its growth.

The great advantage of working with us is that the client can concentrate completely on running their business, safe in the knowledge that their marketing is working as effectively as it possibly can”.

One of Prestbury Marketing’s first clients was Glevum, the well known window, door and conservatory business.

Gary Jones is Managing Director of Glevum. “By working with Darren in the way that we do, we get access to a level and quality of marketing resource that even a business our size couldn’t afford full time. Prestbury Marketing co ordinates all our marketing and PR activity as well as providing a lot of FEBRUARY 2013

Looking to the

FUTURE Darren Stevens (right) with Gary Jones, Managing Director of Glevum

PHOTO: Thousand Word Media

Prestbury Marketing & Consulting has gone from strength to strength since it was set up by Managing Director, Darren Stevens, in April 2010...

“The great advantage of working with us is that the client can concentrate completely on running their business, safe in the knowledge that their marketing is working as effectively as it possibly can” sound practical business advice”.

Another of Prestbury Marketing’s clients is County Community Projects, the Cheltenham based charity that helps disadvantaged people in the county.

Cordell Ray, the charity’s Chief Executive explains why they use Prestbury Marketing. “In this day and age, charities have to act and think more and more like a business. Having Prestbury Marketing work alongside us gives us a real edge and our marketing and PR has improved significantly since they started working with us. We have benefitted greatly from Darren’s business acumen and I really value the advice and support they offer. Another benefit of working with them is the many local contacts that they have enabled us to get in front of ”.

Darren explains why he thinks Prestbury Marketing is proving to be successful. “The concept of businesses being able to access a

marketing resource as and when they need it, seems to be the main attraction.

Clients also like the fact that our advice and recommendations are totally impartial because we don’t accept commission from any of the media or firms we work with”. As for the future?

“I see no reason that provided we maintain our high levels of personal service, we cannot continue to grow.

The business is highly scalable and we are supported by an excellent team of freelance marketing professionals, designers and copywriters. Our levels of client retention and recommendation have been fantastic”. CS You can contact Prestbury Marketing for a free, initial no obligation consultation on 0788 904 2345 or email darren.stevens@prestburymarketing.co.uk www.prestburymarketing.co.uk You can also follow Prestbury Marketing on Twitter @Prestburymktg

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Mathew Waddington, Divorce Solicitor and Partner at Harrison Clark answers your family law questions

Q A

I am worried that my daughter is being abused by her father. What can I do about it?

In light of the recent Jimmy Savile revelations there is an increased public awareness regarding abuse of children. There are several forms of abuse namely, sexual, physical and emotional abuse, and neglect. You must stop all contact immediately and seek appropriate advice.

If you believe that your daughter has been sexually abused it is vitally important that you immediately contact the Local Authority and perhaps also visit your GP (who is likely to contact the Local Authority if you haven’t done so already). Depending on what your daughter has told you, the Local Authority may want her to be intimately examined by a consultant paediatrician for medical evidence to be taken. Your daughter may also be interviewed by the Local Authority. An experienced social worker should speak to her and if the evidence is strong enough the police may also wish to video interview your daughter.

If there is a contact order in place you will need to apply to the court to suspend this order. The court will want to ensure that there has been a thorough risk assessment and that the investigation has concluded before allowing contact to take place again, only allowing contact to resume if safe to do so.

If you believe your daughter has been physically abused the procedure is the same as for sexual abuse; contacting the Local Authority and GP for medical evidence and interviews regarding the alleged abuse. The courts will again wish to be involved to ensure that contact only occurs if safe.

Photographs should be taken of any bruises on a child. It is perfectly normal for children to pick up bruises, for example on their shins or knees, and normal for a child to take a tumble now and then.

If, however, there are bruises on soft areas such as the stomach or the cheek (away from the cheek bone), bruises to the inner ear, or if the bruises take the shape of an instrument or hand, then photographs need to be taken as evidence to the court.

Emotional abuse is less easy to define. Sexual abuse and physical abuse may leave physical evidence in terms of medical evidence and, of course, this is not obviously apparent with emotional harm. I have been involved with lots of cases over the years where residence has changed or contact stopped completely due to emotional harm.

Physical scars will heal on a child, but emotional damage done to that child causes real damage and can damage a child throughout his or her childhood and also into and throughout adulthood.

It is vitally important that if you believe your daughter is being emotionally abused by her father that you seek legal advice as to whether it is in your daughter's best interest to see her father. The starting point for the court is that it nearly always is in a child's best interests to see her father. If your daughter is old enough (usually by aged 12) and does not want to see her father, the court will not force her against her will. If your daughter is under 12 years old the court has a principle that she should see her father unless the risk of harm of that contact outweighs the risk of harm of not seeing her father. Studies show that a child who does not see both parents will not do as well in life as those that see both parents. The court will therefore say that there will be harm done to a child if she does not see her father. If, however, the child is being abused during that contact then the court may stop that contact or limit contact in terms of length of time, frequency or supervision to ensure that harm does not occur.

Neglect is rare in terms of contact. Neglect means the inability of someone to meet the needs of a child. These are the physical, emotional and educational needs of a child and most parents who have contact are able to meet those needs during contact. If a child lives with a particular parent and there is gross neglect this can lead to Care Proceedings and the Local Authority removing a child from a family if the neglect is bad enough.

I would need to speak to you to ascertain what type of abuse is taking place and how bad that abuse is, to be able to advise you as to whether or not to make an application under the Children Act. I would be happy to offer you a free hour consultation.

No Liability is accepted for the advice and information in this article in respect of individual matters. Please contact our team on 01242 851 379 for tailored advice.

women in business

“Normally where you start is not where you end up”

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This month, we talk to Jane Neal, Director of Care first...

Jane Neal founded Care first in 1994 and has since developed the business into a leading provider of employee assistance solutions in the UK and Europe. Before founding Care first, Jane managed and developed one of the UK’s first EAP services for British Airways, which was available worldwide to UK and overseas based cabin crew.

“I have always tried to do what was right for me at that particular point in my life.” Jane explains, “Normally where you start is not where you end up.” Like many of the women we have featured in our regular women in business feature, Jane’s career has been an inspirational journey that has led to huge success.

“The success of Care first has been the team behind the service”, Jane explains, “Customer service and exceeding customer expectations has been a founding principle of Care first.

Delivering first class service is only possible with the right people committed to the same ideal. We have an excellent team from the clinical expertise through to the administration team. Every person at Care first contributes to the customer’s experience.

“We are very careful to select the right people to work for Care first. Every Care first person who has contact with our customer organisations and clients represents our business. We have a diverse and highly experienced team at Care first with many of our team averaging over ten years working for Care first.

Following the award of several of the largest EAP contracts in the UK, Care

Sponsored by

We have an excellent team from the clinical expertise through to the administration team.

Every person at Care first contributes to the customer’s experience first is now the major provider of EAP services to high profile private sector organisations such as Network Rail and Stagecoach as well as some of the largest central and local Government organisations in the UK. “Care first is committed to quality and customer service. Our customer retention rates year on year demonstrate our success. We deliver 100% on our promise and work as partners (not suppliers) with our customer organisations. Care first service is a business resource which supports managers and employees alike to ensure the health and wellbeing of the workforce. A healthy workforce is a productive workforce delivering positive results and performance.”

Jane firmly believes that life should be about balance and that home life is just as important as working life. She took the very brave step to set the business up while she had two young children and spent lots of time travelling around the country. “I knew that I had to

compete on the same terms as everyone else”, Jane says, “And I suppose I have always been autocratic when making decisions, whilst always making sure that they are in the best interests of my family at the same time.”

As well as having two young children and setting a new business up, Jane also undertook the completion of a Masters degree at Birmingham University.

Proving that sometimes you can do it all!

“There was no end game”, Jane explains, “It all just happened really and I could not be happier that it has led me to where I am today.”

Away from work Jane is passionate about horses and describes them as her ‘sunshine’. “My two daughters and I love to ride. I like to think that I am a positive and energetic person. This, I hope, is translated to the people that I meet. I have always believed passionately in what it is I am doing and I think that this shines through.”

Jane states that her greatest inspiration is a manager that she had back in the 1980s and a great lesson that she learned was that you simply cannot expect people to work without giving something back to ensure that they feel valued. “He was a fantastic manager to me at BA and his energy for life was infectious. I believe that with a great energy force you can achieve anything. It acts as a motivator. He made me believe that anything is possible.” Jane says.

“Another big influence was a consultant that I worked alongside in Crew Care whose advice was to take life very simply. The mantra of ‘What can go wrong with this?’ has always been a great comfort to me.” CS

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

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business

Back to basics This month Diane Savory, Chair of Gloucestershire LEP, tells us about the Gloucestershire Apprenticeship Challenge campaign...

I had an enlightening talk with my fellow Gloucestershire Local Enterprise Partnership board members recently, where I learned that a number of these successful businesspeople began their careers as apprentices.

Their accomplishments in business and their impressive careers demonstrate the opportunities an apprenticeship offers, showing just what a great start they can give you in business. But the real beauty of a business taking on apprentices is that everyone wins. While the apprentices get their foot in the door and the practical training they need, businesses can take a short cut to a highly skilled workforce, securing talented young people from our region.

In my role as Chair of Gloucestershire LEP I want to see our young people equipped with the skills needed by business. This is why we’re fronting the Gloucestershire Apprenticeship Challenge campaign, highlighting opportunities available in a

FEBRUARY 2013

range of business sectors and encouraging local companies to get involved. I really do feel that if you’re not part of the programme, you’re missing a trick.

This has already driven a huge boost in numbers, and we are well on the way to smashing our targets for creating new apprenticeship opportunities.

We’re also preparing for the 2013 Gloucestershire Skillsfest,which promises to be bigger and better than ever before. Last year we helped more than 1,400 businesses and young people to kick start their apprenticeship journey and this year we expect to bring even more on board.

Gloucestershire LEP is all about bringing businesses together and the Skillsfest is a great example of how local businesses can get involved and reap the rewards. We are working with local colleges, schools, training providers and businesses to help everyone involved to get the most out of apprenticeships.

Our LEP is different from others

around the country. We are at the heart of business and, along with representatives from some of Gloucestershire’s biggest companies, we have board representation from the University of Gloucestershire and Gloucestershire College. We know how important it is to have strong links between education and business in the county.

I know from my own experiences with SuperGroup that high quality skills are vital for developing the expertise and knowledge required in today's workplace.

Apprenticeships help businesses to grow in Gloucestershire we’re making sure this happens and I’ll be delighted if today’s apprentices turn out to be the LEP board members of the future. CS To find out more, visit www.glosskillsfest.co.uk or www.gloslep.co.uk Diane Savory is Chair of Gloucestershire Local Enterprise Partnership.

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COTSWOLD STYLE 103

style event

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

FEBRUARY 2013

See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

The Ladies Lunch – Another resounding success!

s

One of Gloucester Rugby’s biggest sponsors, allpay, launched their new business, allpay Legal, at this event. Justine Norman who’s heading up this new venture said: “How very proud and excited we are to be part of such a great event, seeing so many professional women come together to network and share experiences seemed the ideal place to launch our digital legal service, which offers a virtual in house law team”. m. The next popular event will take place on For more details visit: www.allpaylegall.com 1st May 2013 contact: angelaedwards@gloucesterrugby.co.uk Photography by Craig Derrick

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Half Price Champagne gne on Fridays until 7:30pm! m!

Sunday Special, all you can eat for only £12.95!

95!

Indulge, ge, relax and enjoy the atmosphere… osphere…

Conferences Events Eve ents Special Occasions ons

Mon tpellier Drive, Cheltenh am GL50 1TY www.spicelo dge.co m 012 42 2 26 30 0

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/sp pice.lodge ic e.l odge

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

Sponsored by

Savills Cheltenham The Quadrangle | Cheltenham | GL50 1PZ

01242 548000 cheltenham@savills.com

savills.co.uk

####

On the B4035 nr Chipping Campden GL55 6NS. Telephone: 01386 593 555 gm.charingworthmanor@classiclodges.co.uk

Luxurious Spring Breaks in a Cotswold Manor with AA rosetted dining, a health club and 600 years of history Spring is a wonderful time of year in The Cotswolds. Visit beautiful villages built of mellow Cotswold stone with colourful displays of daffodils and crocuses, enjoy rolling green countryside and visit some magnificent National Trust houses and gardens as they come into bloom.

And what better place to stay than Charingworth Manor - an idyllic manor house with oak beams, roaring log fires, stunning architecture and a wealth of antiques and tapestries. But as well as old world charm, guests enjoy every modern comfort - including a health club with heated pool, gym, sauna and steam room.

Un n til 31.3 3.2 2 013 : a cc omm m od atio on , d inne er, b re e ak fa a st a nd d a c hille ed bo ottle e of Pro ose cc o wa aiting g in n your ro oom. Fro om £1 49 p e r coup p le e Fine Dining is taken very seriously at Charingworth Manor. The Restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily and Sunday Lunch is not to be missed! £55 Cha a mp p a gne e Gourm met Dinne e r: Fe eb 1, Ma rc ch 1, Ap ril 5 & Ma y 3 After a Champagne Reception, guests enjoy a sumptuous five course feast that will satisfy even the most demanding palate! £55 per adult. Diners are invited to stay on for breakfast for just £85 per room.

You’ll find more offers at www.classiclodges.co.uk/charingworthmanor

restaurant review

Elmore Cou

Reviewed by G loucester City C oun

rt

cillor, Paul Jame s

When I walked into Anselm G uise’s office at Elmore Court and he switche d off the electronic mus ic with his mob ile phone, I sensed this was n’t going to be a typical visit to a country ho use.

Anselm, 42, in herited the hous e a few miles south of Glouc ester in 2007 on the death of his uncle Sir Jo hn Guise and ha s been working to find a viable, long-t er m future for it. Elmore Cou rt, which has be en in Anselm’s family for well over 700 years, featured on Cha nnel 4’s “Count ry House Rescue” , but the projec t now being purs ued is slightly Anselm different from what the show ’s Ruth Watson re commended.

Anselm has em barked on an ambitious £1.5 million project to build a new an nex for wedding receptions, conf erences and th e like and to refu rbish the whole house. The new building is bein g named The Gill yflower, after th e rent of one clov e of Gillyflower set by Henry II I when Elmore was granted to the family in 1260.

Environmenta university befo l sustainability re his career to is a theme that through the pr ok a different di rection – into runs oject. The Gill nightclubs, reco yflower is bein rammed earth m us ic fe rd labels and st g iv bu al s. When he liv ilt from and will be one ed in Africa in of the biggest buildings in th ni ne tie s, he the late su or ch ganised parties e country. Both out in the bush The Gillyflower house will be he lic en si ng an , where d and the health and safe ated by a new ty rules didn’t biomass boiler wood coming an d, he te re lls al w me, you could ly exist – ith the from the 1000 “wander off si acre estate. The catering will, w into an elephant te and bump in-house herever possib ”. le, use food gr estate and perh Anselm admits own on the aps even “grow that he likes pu n to order” whe tting on partie bookings are ta return to Elmor re s. On his ken well in adva e one of his pa nc rt ie e. of s ruffled the fe Anselm’s philo a few locals – bu athers sophy is that th t th at over-exuberanc is business mod should help to forgotten and e was soon el the villagers ar save Elmore C e overwhelmin ourt family of wife his plans. gly behind Sarah and his tw and support his o young childre remain true to W or k on th n, e project is wel the house and but l underway, with his family’s hist currently a build Elmore Court ory. the house ing site and the was built for en construction of tertaining and enjoyment and Gillyflower, whi The Anselm wants ch will accomm to see it shared odate up to 20 wider constitue starting immin with a 0 guests, ently. It is due ncy. He is turn to be finished ing the “Upsta Downstairs” co this year. in September irs, ncept on its he ad, with guests to choose their A lth ou gh be lit tle has been do ing able wine from the ne in the way of house’s well-sto cellars. Rather so far, enquirie cked marketing than having staf s are already co ming in. Count f catering to hi need, in the way w ed di ng s ar ry s e ev no House ery thing new, but his ancestors liv Elmore Court ed, Anselm an team will be do Gillyflower will an d d The his ing that for othe provide a new, and slightly qu rs. Both the ho The Gillyflower With a party-lo ir us ky e and ving host, gues , twist. are being licen ts can be guaran sed for wedding good time. CS Born in South teed a s.

Africa, Anselm studied bioche mistry at For more in formation, vi sit www.elm orecourt.com

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dining out

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Newly refurbish ed and reopened for the New Ye The Wharf Hou ar, se is one of Glou cestershire’s mo st popular resta uran

ts...

Luxury Accomm odation AA Red Rosette Restaurant Dog friendly and disabled access room Perfect location fo r an intimate w edding Private Hire Ava ilable Always pays to book

FEBRUARY 2013

Did you know that The Wharf House Restaur Rooms now of ant with fers a selection of 'Light Bites', 'R Sandwiches' an ustic d 'The Best Cof fee in Glouces in the morning tershire' both and afternoon?

Their varied À menu which su la carte its all dietary ne eds is always available at lunc htime or dinner , with a committed Coe liac and Vegetar ian following as catering for m well as eat-eaters alike.

The Wharf Hou boasts seven lu se also xury guest room s, perfect for th even including ose visitors, a room ideal fo r four legged fr Conveniently lo iends! cated in a beau tiful setting on the River Seve the banks of rn just outside Gloucester, th firm favorite w is re staurant is a ith business an d leisure custom ideal place to re ers alike. An lax and catch-up with friends in for that intimat the day or e dinner in the ev en ing.

The Wharf Hou se is convenient junction of the ly located near A40/A417 and the enjoys conven Cheltenham, th ient links to e Forest of Dea n and Cotswol perfect launch ds; the pad fr tourism attractio om which to enjoy vibrant lo cal ns. Situated alon gside the River overlooking th Severn and e Over Canal B asin, visitors ca fantastic water n also enjoy side walks in th e immediate ar working up an ea while appetite. CS

The Wharf H ouse, Over, G loucester, G Tel: 01452 33 L2 8DB 2 900 Email: enqu iries@thewh arfhouse.co.

Web: www.t uk hewharfhou se.co.uk

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Tom’s

Travels

Tom Rains, Head Chef at The Daffodil in Cheltenham, shares his monthly gastronomic mission to seek out and enjoy the most interesting, unusual and just plain delicious produce available Photography by www.lushimaging.com

During his impressive career, Tom has wowed diners at The Berkeley, L’Escargot, and Claridges as well as being Sous Chef to the legendary Anton Mosimann at his renowned Belgravia Club.

Every month, Tom gives us the true story behind the food on our plate and the fascinating producers that make it.

In the first of a special Parisian themed double feature here is what he discovered...

Salut! This month I have been lucky enough to visit what I consider to be the gastronomic capital of the world. The Daffodil boss, Mark Stephens and I escaped for a 24 hour whirlwind trip to see, smell, and taste some of the finest gastronomic experiences that Paris has to offer.

After a lot of hard graft, culminating in the busiest year for The Daffodil in its 15 year history, this trip has left me supercharged and super inspired! Being away from the manic pace of my usual daily environment is great for making plans for the future as well as experiencing gourmet professionals working right at the top of their game with such style and affection. I am one lucky Chef as market research has never

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been so much fun however the trick is to watch, learn and bring plenty back to The Daffodil’s dining tables.

The Boss and I headed for Paris via the Eurostar which is great for giving you over two hours of uninterrupted time to thrash out new ideas and menu dishes for the coming year. This was not a buying trip (although of course we couldn’t resist!) but a mission to experience top notch food, service, and ambience so we can gauge where we are and try to match or even better it back at The Daffodil.

British produce is now as good, if not better on occasion, than overseas and it is reassuring to know that food miles and locality are not just buzz words on a menu. However my philosophy has always been use the best local ingredients wherever possible, but only if they truly are good enough.

Our day was filled with tastings amongst some of the most renowned and historical Parisian addresses.

Sampling all these great foods was privilege enough but to be able to chat directly (albeit in my ‘rusty’ French!) to such legendary producers was amazing as well as hugely beneficial.

First up we had an appointment at the impressive Maille mustard boutique on the Place de la Madeleine. Here I found mustard, oil and vinegar excellences all on tap and beautifully presented. I sampled a huge array of mustard strengths, including a couple guaranteed to blow your head off, as well as unusual

varieties containing cassis, truffle, fine herbs and mushrooms all were outstanding. In fact I decided right there to incorporate one of the mustards sampled into my new Belly Pork dish which is going on The Daffodil menu this month.

We then headed to the much respected La Maison de la Truffle, another wonderfully classy boutique of delicacies filled with the incredible smell of fresh truffle. This place has been the historic FEBRUARY 2013

food

FACT BOX www.maille.com www.maison-de-la-truffe.com www.fauchon.com/en

Belly pork using Dijon mustard

centre of the truffle world since 1932.

We tried a fantastic truffle mayonnaise, many truffle oils, truffle with polenta, truffle foie gras, and a delicious Brie with truffle through the middle… now that ‘is’ going on the menu! The attention to detail and knowledge of their craft made me gasp and a friendly team was on hand to guide us through the subtleties of this unique delicacy.

After all that savoury nibbling it was time for something sweet so we headed for legendary pâtisserie and luxury confectioner Fauchon. Founded in 1886

by Auguste Fauchon, this place really is the Tiffany & Co of gourmet food with their wide ranging products presented in showcases and open counter top trays with immaculate precision. We checked out several floors tasting chocolates, pastries, jams, amazing loose teas, and their mouth watering macaroons. This was followed by a spot of afternoon tea with delicious gâteaux assiette which immediately gave me an idea of how to ‘pimp up’ our Champagne high tea back

at The Daffodil as well as an Apple tart with frangipane and apricot glaze for our main menu.

Fauchon really is the ultimate destination for gourmet guilty pleasures and a fabulous way to round off the day before dinner although the boss was keeping the dining destination a secret…

Until next month à bientôt! CS www.thedaffodil.com Reservations: 01242 700 055

Next month....

Next month I’ll let you in on just what happened next including a caper up the Eiffel Tower, a late night piano bar and just why this Paris experience means more ‘wow’ moments at The Daffodil are to come…

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recipe with Ali Nightingale

A spoonful

of love

Has it rea lly been a yea tempted y ou all with r since I the conce Breakfast pt of in Bed fo r Valentin Day? The e ’s Orange R ico were a rea l winner, b tta Hotcakes ut of our rea ders asked one or two me if I co not sug ge uld st s demandin omething a little le ss g for the “ Not Quit Nigella’s” e .

Chocolate this issue. is my inspiration in Th at all – no is is not really a rec ipe culinary s kills requir just a little ed – preparatio n, and a swe et tooth. T patience he only lin between c k ooking an d my Valentine Spoons is that a lov Febr uary ing 14th cudd le is like tw spoons ly o ing togeth er in a kit drawer. chen Valentine Spoons are an amuse mini mou bouche, b thfuls of ite sized, a chocolate nd covere delight; , to be fed ganache. T d in to glass of c he p hampagne your partner over m ixture onto erfectionist might a chilled . cho The filling a spoon, b the shape s that I se ut I just d ose to pipe the . Pop the rosewater lected are ig in and tid spoons on tr uffle, pe white cho the freeze y up to a plate colate and anut butte chocolate r. and place r, and salt . The pea in ed carame nut butter of a jar; I l can come prefer cr u • The me straight o nchy. The th easy to m od for the ut tr uffle fill ake and c sec identical, ings are v an be flav b as: Kahlu u t use a go ond filling is almos e r o y u red with li a, Kirsch o t s m dq all pinch o or Grand queurs su f sea salt. uality milk chocola ch Ori Marnier. te, and a S m ginal Cara ash a sing Ingredie le Werthe nts: pieces into mel or similar swe r’s et, a th process, fr e scalded cream, th nd add the tiny As per ind eezing as en follow described ividual fill the ings descri before. bed below • G ra b a spoon .

Method: and dig in tidy the sh to a jar of ape to a n peanu eat moun freezer. T d and pop t butter, hese are th • Firstly, p into the repare a tr e easy one ay with gre s! on top. aseproof • Melt a 2 paper 00g bar o f dark cho (a bowl o colate in a ver a bub • For the Bain Mari bling pan white cho e of hot wa colate and will need te rosewater r) a 100g ba .

• Remove tr uffles yo r of best 50 ml of y o u quality wh u dou the melted r spoons from the ite chocola rosewater. ble cream and ½ a fr chocolate te, teaspoon Break or c , then plac eezer and dip into back into of hop the c e pieces and th o e n the tray. freezer fo hoc place in a the fridge Place r five min bowl. In a olate into small the cream u u n te ti s and then l ready to separate p then pour h e e a into a rt t. s, D rose petals an, scald ecorate w onto the c for 5 min ith choco or if you hocolate. utes then e d ib le late re L gold leaf. stir until s ally want eave to sit rosewater mooth. A to impres and place d s d – the into the fr cooled, w idge. Whe hip with a H a p p y n n electric spooning! CS mixer to fo it has r m a thick

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recipe with Shelle Duffin

Made with love

The day of lo ve is upon us , a day which relish and oth some of us ers dread – a d ay w has become in Mississippi M creasingly gove hich over the years ud Pie rned by the h with everythin igh street g turning fifty Serves 10 shades of pin and booming k and red sales for Clin tons Cards, T Ann Summer hornton’s, s and florists Ingredients nationwide. V Day is one par alentine’s ticular day in th e year when m their women, For the base: en woo showering th em with choco roses, lingerie, • 300g bourbon lates, red not forgetting biscuits the corny card requesting to • 80 g butter s be ‘my valenti ne’ signed wit to express thei h a ‘?’, all r love and dev For the fillin otion, putting g: back in the go them od books unti • 150g dark cho l the followin colate To the cynics g year.

• 135g butter, amongst you, cubed I say that Val is a day that sh entine’s ould be enjoye • 150g soft bro d by all witho wn sugar need to be dra ut the wn into the co • 150ml doub mmercial hyp le cream often surroun e that so ds it • 3 large eg gs is one small ge . The true meaning of Val entine’s sture that show • 25g cocoa p owder s the one you that you care, love and for the si • 2tsp vanilla n gl es etons out ther sence be dishearten ed - why not e, don’t throw a dinner F fellow singlet o r th e to pping: party for ons? Any excu se for a social • 250ml doub and one with gathering le cream a little • 2 chocolate match-makin flakes g…you never know! T his is a Method: time gentlem en (and ladies), to pul To make the l out the base, melt the stops – after butter in a sauc o r microwave. P all, the epan ut the biscuit way to a love s into a food p ro ce ss or and blitz in r’s heart to crumbs is through the • Add the but ter and blitz un stomach, so a til thoroughly good • Grease a 23 mixed meal is key to cm wide/4cm a dee butter and sp successful Val rinkle the biscu p pie dish with entines. it mixture – p firmly into th ress Many of us en e corners, the joy dining out b ase and the si an d put in the frid in some of th d restaurants T es, ge for an hour e brilliant he Cotswolds • To make the have to offer, share your occ filling, prehea but why asion crammed t the oven to • Melt the cho 180ºC in a room wit of other coup co late and butte h lots les? Spark off r in a bowl ov simmering wat a bit of indiv mixed with a er er – once mel iduality dollop of spo ted, put to on ntaneity. On th night, atmosp • In e a si b de to cool ow is l, beat the eg gs special here and amb iance are the and sugar toge intimacy - dim el ec tr ic ke w y hisk until ligh ther using an to med lights, a t and creamy few flicking ca seductive mus • Whisk in th ndles, ic, a good bott e cocoa powd le of wine are touches to ge er, vanilla esse chocolate and just a few t you started nce, melted then the crea and to set the nothing expre m until all the m co o m od, but sses love and b in ed mixture has appreciation a home-cooke more than d meal. And • P o ur into the biscu if you’re a bit disaster zone it case and pla of a in the kitchen 30-40 minutes ce in the oven , don’t be dra M&S’s ‘dinner until the pie h for w n in for two for £ as by ri se n and is slightly • Put to one si 20’, this is wh in, helping yo firm de to cool – th ere I come u to create th e middle will e perfect desse indulgence, b • Once coole si n k sl rt of ig h ringing a swee d, whisk the cr tly t and happy en eam and spre beginning of middle of the ad it over the ding (or an end) to yo p ie – fi n is h by sprinklin ur night. crumbled flak This dessert, g with the e Mississippi M ud Pie is a ch favourite, mad S er ild vi n h e by one of th ood g suggestion e great loves : drizzle with - Grandma D coulis and so of my life a little raspber uffin - as a sp me fresh rasp ry ecial treat on A lot of love berries. CS our visits. went into this dish, as well as chocolate, bo a lot of th of which w For more re ill p cipes and ti combination ps, follow m – @ShelleD on your specia rove to be a winning e on Twitte uffin or Fa l night. r cebook – – Foo d Writer/C ook, plus ch Shelle Duffin – myboiled eck out my eggsandso new blog ldiers@blog spot.com

EBRUARY 2013

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Excitation...

Big wines from small vineyards around the world

07870 172416 sales@kontikiwines.com

Please drink responsibly

Ann intimate m A meal eal for two at Purslane

Combining the freshest, sustainably caught seafood from British waters with the best local produce the Cotswolds has to offe fer, Purslane is currently rated as one of the top Home-smoked Loch Duart restaurants in Cheltenham and is named after the chef ’s salmon, heritage beetroots favourite wild seashore vegetable. Whether you’re having and Evesham rainbow chard a cosy, romantic meal or dinner out with old friends, Purslane offe fers a warm and friendly atmosphere that For your chance to win, simply answer this question: you’ll want to revisit time and time again.

Q What is Purslane?

One lucky Cotswold Style reader will win the chance to The winner willl be drawn at random from all of the correct entries after treat a friend or someone special to a delicious the closing datee of March 1st, 2013. To enteer, email th he answer, your name, three course dinner between March and May address and telephone number to to enquiries@purslane-restaaurant.co uk wi with th Cotswold Style Competiition as the subj ub bject heading. Good Luck! worth a total of ÂŁ60.

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the wine tipster

Choosing your

Valentine’s Pink St Valentine’s Day is on a Thursday night this year, which must be good for business in restaurants and pubs, and a bonus for romantics who’ll only have Friday of the working week to go.

Aside from the choice of card and flowers, potentially the most difficult dilemma is which pink wine to choose?

Hopefully, some of you are already acquainted with your partner’s palate, however I’m sure you’ll still want to introduce an element of surprise. For others it will be a nerve racking first date, with the wine and perhaps the person too, but there is no need to have vino fear because choosing a pink wine to suit your romantic occasion is easy!

Gone are the days when Rosé was a short list of Lambrusco, off dry Californian blush, Mateus from Portugal, (which is in The Wine Tipster’s view is a well made Rosé) or a nostalgic holiday memory in the shape of a Provence pink. Today it is different, for the simple reason that wine producers have capitalised on the demand for Rosé all year around not just from the ladies, but increasingly from us fellas too and so there is a plethora of quality pink champagne, sparkling, still, serious and fun Rosé wines to make your evening.

So here are a few of my Valentine wine tips:

• If you are really trying to impress with high end, prestige champagne then 2004 and 2002 are two great vintages, with the anemone decorated bottle of Belle Epoque Rosé a good choice. Great champagnes like this need to be served at around 8 degrees.

• English pink fizz overall is not as impressive as the whites, however FEBRUARY 2013

Top Tipster

Wagers Vilarnau Cava Brut Rosé NV, abv 12.0%, Sant Sadurni d’Anoia, Spain, £10.30 or £9.78 when purchasing any 12 mixed bottles. Stockist: The Oxford Wine Company High quality dry pink Cava fizz, with intense crimson colour, light strawberry fruit aromas, redcurrants and citrus on the palate. Perfect with canapés.

Three Choirs Premium Selection Rosé 2011, abv 10.5%, Gloucestershire, £7.99. Stockist: Waitrose One of the best English wine producers and best to visit too so get along to Newent!

Dry, soft, light pink with strawberry fruit flavours and a creamy finish. Be patriotic and romantic!

producers like Camel Valley, Gusbourne Estate and Chapel Down English Sparkling Rosé, £22, M&S, are definitely worth buying

• Prosecco from Italy has become the new Pinot Grigio, with the styles under £10 tending to be off dry and drier styles above £10. If you want to try a pink sparkling from Italy then buy Bellante Sparkling Rosé, £9.99, M&S which is a blend of Prosecco with a dash of a grape variety called Raboso, which gives a delicate pink hue.

• Moscato Rosé is off dry or medium, fun, packed with fruit and with lower in alcohol at around 7 8% so try Jacob’s

Zalze Cabernet Sauvignon Shiraz Rosé 2012, abv 14%, Coastal Region, South Africa, £7.99.

Stockist: Waitrose Impressive, dry, fresh pink, with strawberry and soft tangy flavours, finishing with crisp acidity.

A perfect easy drinking Rosé to share.

G.H.Mumm Rosé NV, abv 12.5%, Champagne, France, £37.99, Stockist: Tesco Wine by the Case.

For many people the only choice on Valentine’s Day is champagne and this pink fizz from the famous and ultra consistent champagne house with its intense salmon pink colour, raspberry fruit and vanilla flavours will get you in the romantic mood.

Creek Moscato Rosé 2011 from Australia, £7.48, Tesco.

• For delicate, elegant still rosés try Provence, or for more depth of colour and more intensity and an overall good bet is Spain. Elsewhere full flavoured styles like Finca Flichman Malbec Rosé 2011 from Argentina, £6.99,Waitrose, or Torres Santa Digna Cabernet Rosé 2011 from Chile, £8.09, S.H.Jones are on the money.

Have a fantastic Valentine’s. Cheers!

CS

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

COTSWOLD STYLE 119

All About The Food . . .

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sporting style This month in Sporting Style we hear from Cheltenham Town Football Club and Racehorse owner Richard Davies, plus learn all about Shane Duff’s new business venture...

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See more socials at www.stylemagazines.co.uk

style event

Nick Woods’ ‘back to school’ party As part of Nick Woods’ benefit year more than 150 back to school supporters dressed up in suitable attire and attended the themed party at Dean Close School in Cheltenham. A delicious school dinner was served under the watchful eye of David Flatman . All funds raised were shared with Maggies and the National Star college.

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Photography by Angus Bethune

FEBRUARY 2013

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sport

Cheltenham Town v Everton A night to remember!

Matches like this, pitching David against Goliath, are what the FA Cup is all about. Many Cheltenham fans are Everton fans too as people will follow a Premier team as well as their local League side such as Cheltenham.

So, the 3rd Round FA Cup tie at Whaddon Road on Monday 7th January was a special occasion, Cheltenham were playing hosts to a Premier league team with players who most only see on TV and they were live in action on our pitch.

The spotlight on this fixture presented the club with an opportunity to show what a professional and friendly club we are on and off the pitch, and we did!

Despite the result, we showed a massive

audience at the ground, on the TV and through other media, what a good team we are and it didn’t go unnoticed. The feedback has been fantastic and shows that on your doorstep in Gloucestershire you have a well run, professional football club, you don’t need to go far for a great live football experience.

Games like Everton, really raise the profile of our club, the only Football League Club in the county. As a leisure attraction, we, like many others, compete for an audience. There were

Marie Carter

FEBRUARY 2013

nearly 7,000 watching the Everton game, 10,000 followed us to Wembley last year and 13,000 made the trip to the Millennium Stadium a few years ago.

Our usual crowd is around 3,000, so to progress we need to increase our regular support and those who have joined us for these big occasions we ask you to give your support on a more regular basis. They won’t all be glamourous, exciting games, but you will have a good afternoon out and you don’t always need to be watching CTFC v Everton to see a good or exciting game!

If you prefer to watch in comfort and maybe eat before the game, we do this side of things well too.

The quote below says it all, do come and join us to experience it for yourself. CS Marie Carter Marketing Manager

“Can I just take this opportunity to thank you for such a great night. I have been to a number of premier grounds and used corporate hospitality and none of them were a patch on your good selves.

All of my guests were made to feel more than welcome, even the Everton fans and it was amazing that your club chairman spent some time at our table, were else would you get that?”

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COTSWOLD STYLE 125

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sporting style

Introducing…

Shane Duff Soccer After 11 years as a professional Our soccer camps and club sessions footballer, I have been involved in will offer young people the chance to coaching at all levels from grass roots to develop their skills and learn new elite for two years, and have now techniques in a safe, fun environment. ventured into developing a business in All coaches are fully qualified and have partnership with Cotswold Style’s very been given a thorough examination by own Mark Cuzner. me. Just having coaching qualifications I have a real passion for developing won’t be enough. I only want coaches children in sport and more specifically who have the same philosophy and ethos football for the immediate future. The that I have. The business is being set up business has plans to develop into to give the local public an excellent other sports with the same service, I will be driving high model further down the line. standards throughout.

Shane Duff Soccer Children will be taught skills SOCCER Schools will look to and techniques that have offer an kept Premier League stars introduction to the at the top of their game. game at grass roots The game at the top level is SCHOOL level. Our aim is, quite getting better and better as simply, to bridge the huge gap years go by, so it has become that currently exists between more important to give boys and girls grass roots football and academy the right information at an early age. football. Football academies were Youngsters are adaptable at a young age introduced by leading clubs in a bid to and can take in information like a sponge. identify and nurture talented players Already the business has been from as young as eight years old. The approached by professional football 9,000 or so boys up and down the clubs looking to forge links as they know country, who currently fill the ranks that we will be doing things ‘the right from the Premier League to League way’. These are links that are welcome as Two, are desperate to succeed, but the I personally will take great satisfaction in reality is that only a handful will make it seeing youngsters develop with me and to the top. then be accepted into football academies.

FEBRUARY 2013

PHOTO: Thousand Word Media

Cheltenham Town’s former Captain, Shane Duff, tells us about his exciting new business venture…

We have a vision and a dream to one day see faces come through our system and end up on television on a Sunday afternoon playing in the Premier League.

We will strive to give all our players more opportunities and greater experiences designed to help them progress on and off the pitch as players and as people.

A typical day at a camp includes: a proper 'footballer's style' warm up, skill sessions, penalty competitions, small sided games, and water breaks! The final hour of each day consists of a tournament for the youngsters to show off their new skills. Each day is carefully structured to give the children the opportunity to learn new techniques, enjoy football and meet new friends. CS Shane Duff Soccer School Tel: 07813 800238 Email: info@shaneduffsoccer.co.uk Web: www.shaneduffsoccer.co.uk facebook.com/shaneduffsoccer Twitter @shaneduffsoccer

COTSWOLD STYLE 127

THE GOOD FIGHT

sporting style

Gloucester’s own UFC fighter Che Mills has had a year of mixed fortunes both in and outside of the ring and must be looking forward to 2013 with a renewed vitality and a sense of extreme optimism WORDS AND PICTURES BY ROB WHEATMAN

Having seen off Chris Cope in UFC 138 in 2011 after just 40 seconds of the first round in his debut fight, he came unstuck against a phenomenal young fighter, Rory MacDonald, in his second fight in the UFC. There was no shame in losing that fight, as MacDonald, who is tipped for the very top and has since seen off UFC Legend BJ Penn.

Mills bounced back against Duane Ludwig who won following an unfortunate injury to Ludwig’s knee in the first round; and so as 2013 starts Che “Beautiful” Mills meets the very respectable Matthew Riddle at Wembley Arena on February 16th.

Mills is the older fighter bringing more fighting experience with him into the octagon, but as he faces the American on British soil, both fighters are coming in off the back of a win, and whatever happens, this should be a fabulous match up, and a win would push Che respectably up the ranks.

2012 bought both sadness and joy outside of the ring for Che, following the birth of his first child, Rico; Che and his family suffered the loss of his father Gary Mills at the start of December.

Cotswold Style magazine was lucky enough to catch up with Che at his training camp for the upcoming fight, Trojan Freefighters in Cheltenham, where under the watchful eye of trainer Paul Sutherland, he puts his body through pain and extremes unimaginable to the non fighting majority. Mixed martial art fighters (MMA) are amongst the world’s most highly trained athletes and Che is testament to this.

Q 2012 has been a year of ups and downs for you and your family, how big of an influence on your fighting career was your father?

A My Dad was always at my fights from the beginning even though he hated seeing me do it, but he would FEBRUARY 2013

always support me no matter what... he even used to do fitness with me early in my career.

Q Despite your family’s loss, you and Holly have a new addition to your family, Rico. How has the birth of your son affected your attitude to what you do in the ring, and your attitude towards training?

A It makes me work twice as hard, just seeing him smile makes all the pain worth it and I want him to be proud of his dad in years to come.

Q There is a noticeable increase in the amount of youngsters taking up MMA, do you have a career planned out in the ring for Rico, or will you be pushing for him to have a career away from fighting?

A I will let him decide what he wants in life (after making him sit through hours of various fight footage to push him in the right direction!) but ultimately it is his choice.

Q You have fought three and won two in the UFC. Did the loss to Rory MacDonald make you question your future in the sport, or did you build on it as a learning curve?

A It did for a day or two, I guess, but then I just told myself it happens… time to learn and improve from it. It was kind of a blessing because now I train a lot more thoroughly and much harder.

Q Matt Riddle enters the octagon against you as a respectable fighter and another product of the TV show the Ultimate Fighter like yourself. Is his ability to finish a fight in question?

A No, I don’t think so! However if someone wins and they keep doing so it makes them dangerous! Although he may not always get the finish… he gets the win, so I must take him very seriously.

Q Does the fact that Riddle has fought more times in the UFC bear any significance in this fight, or will experience prevail?

A I don’t think so. Maybe if it was my first UFC experience, but I've been there three times myself now and fought all over the world for other promotions so we're both experienced. It shouldn’t be a factor in this fight.

Q The welterweight division is full of household names, Georges St-Pierre, Carlos Condit, and BJ Penn, what’s next for Che Mills following a win against Riddle?

A I just want to keep improving and climbing the ladder of success! I want to be one of those household names myself in the next few years. CS

COTSWOLD STYLE 129

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racing style

“I knew it was going to be busy but they drank me dry” Many of you will have danced the night away at the 21 Club, one of Cheltenham’s most popular venues. I met with owner, Richard Davies, to chat about the Cheltenham Festival and the huge impact that it has had on his own life....

How did your interest in racing evolve?

I was at school in Cheltenham, I used to try to skive off to go racing! I was there in 1989 to see Desert Orchid win; I haven’t missed a Friday of the Festival since. I normally go on the Tuesday and the Friday. Tuesday is my favourite day.

I got into racehorse ownership purely by watching the characters, their love of the horses, their love of racing and the love between them during race week in the 21 Club. I thought I would love to own a horse and be part of that.

In what year was your first Festival at the helm of the 21 Club?

March 1994, I bought the place two weeks prior to the Festival. I knew it was going to be busy, but they drank me dry! They were even drinking stuff that was left over from the previous owner.

After the first night, I thought I would be clever and double ordered everything; they drank all of that too!

The 21 Club has always been where the Owners, Trainers and Jockeys go to celebrate their wins; it’s a privilege to be involved. Last year A.P McCoy celebrated his Gold Cup win on Synchronised, in the 21 Club; in 2008 Sam Thomas celebrated winning on

‘‘

Last year A.P McCoy celebrated his Gold Cup win on Synchronised, in the 21 Club; in 2008 Sam Thomas celebrated winning on Denman with us. Lar Byrne celebrated all of Hardy Eustace’s Cheltenham wins at the 21; it’s just an honour to be part of that Denman with us. Lar Byrne celebrated all of Hardy Eustace’s Cheltenham wins at the 21; it’s just an honour to be part of that. I have a great write up every year from the Irish Field (Irelands Racing weekly) The Irish love the place, they’re surrounded by their own people and they don’t get any hassle.

FEBRUARY 2013

Tell us about the Racehorses you have owned/ currently own?

Secret Tune has been recently retired. He was fantastic; he took us to Cheltenham, Aintree and Newbury. He was also second in the Scottish Champion Hurdle at Ayr. He was a dual purpose horse; he won on the all weather at Kempton and on the level at Doncaster. There’s Kalamill, he’s in training with Shaun Lycett at Bourton on the Water. He has had a 12 month break and will be running mid February. I have an unnamed 3yo by the Proclamation out of Kayf Lady X Kayf Tara. He’s very smart; he was broken last year by Charlie Longsdon, he’ll be at home until June then he’ll return to Charlie. Then there is the mare Karmest, she’s currently in foal to Black Sam Bellamy, she already has a yearling by Kalanisi. My weekend job is the 21 Club and Monday Friday I’m a Breeder. I have 70 acres in Tewkesbury.

Can you give our readers your Cheltenham Festival fancies?

Sprinter Sacre, (Queen Mother Champion Chase). He could be the next super star and is very exciting. Quevega will win again at The Festival (Mares Hurdle). I know the lads that own her and they are great fun, should be a good party at The 21 that evening. What a mare! Jezki in the Supreme Novices Hurdle but Puffin Billy looks the real deal too. Will Silviniaco Conti get the Gold Cup trip? If he does he wins. He looks a great each way price. CS

Cathryn Fry Twitter @cathrynfry

COTSWOLD STYLE 131

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The Foodworks ‘Black Thai’ event Harriet Elwes owner of the cookery school based in Colesbourne put on a fabulous evening of sumptuous Thai cuisine all served up by new chef Natts Rabindran. An auction was held for a Thai cookery course to raise money for The Little Princess Trust The Foodworks charity.

Photography by Rob Wheatman

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1 Dominic and Ali Treasure. 2 Harriett Elwes, Jemima and Octavia. 3 Lizzie Philip Sorensen and Fiona Burge. 4 Guests enjoying the party.

5 Linda Davis and Sarah Boustead. 6 Jamie McKelvie, Fiona McLeod and Patrick Leatham. 7 Liz Saunders and Lorenzo Lombard.

8 Natalie, Caroline, Harriett Elwes (Owner), Amanda and Lucinda. 9 Gisela and Gerry Gray. 10 Mark and Lizzie Philip Sorensen.

11 Alasdair Garbutt. 13 Carol Freeman, Paul Bates and Juliet McKelvie. 14 Patrick Leatham and Cassandra. 15 Gisela Gray and Sarah Bousted.

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motoring

‘‘

Wessex staff celebrate following awards evening “The evening was a huge success and acknowledged many people who have shown outstanding commitment to the dealership in what has been an excellent year for the business.”

Below: General Manager of Wessex Garages on Mercia Road, Matthew Cripps (Centre), picks up the Most Improved Dealership on behalf of the dealership from (left) Managing Director, Keith Brock and (right) Operations Director, Chris Wiseman.

FEBRUARY 2013

Members of staff at a car dealership in Gloucester are celebrating after recently being presented with an award for their achievements during 2012.

The awards, which took place at Ashton Gate in Bristol on Thursday, December 13, recognised Wessex Garages on Mercia Road as the Most Improved Dealership in the past 12 months.

Matthew Cripps, General Manager of the dealership, said: “We are absolutely delighted with our award win. It is a great recognition of all our hard work in 2012.”

The awards ended a great year for Wessex Garages, which included sales on used cars going up by 44% and new cars by 20% in the past six months.

Keith Brock, Managing Director of Wessex Garages, said: “The evening was a huge success and acknowledged many people who have shown outstanding commitment to the dealership in what has been an excellent year for the business.

“The awards gave us a chance to celebrate our dealerships that have performed exceptionally.

“I’d like to congratulate Matthew and his team at Mercia Road for a terrific year and I

look forward to an even better 2013.”

Wessex Garages is a privately owned company that has outlets in Bristol, Cardiff, Gloucester and Newport. It specialises in new and used car sales across South Wales and the South West.

The dealership on Mercia Road stocks the Fiat, Kia and Nissan ranges. Other brands represented across the company are Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Hyundai.

Keith added: “We have established a reputation for honesty, reliability and outstanding value for money and we pride ourselves on passing on massive savings on new and used cars direct to our customers, while still providing an aftersales service that is both friendly and professional.” CS For more information about Wessex Garages, which has an outlet on Mercia Road, please call 0844 247 3181, visit www.wessexgarages.com, follow the company on Twitter at www.twitter.com/wessexgarages or log on to www.facebook.com/ wessexgarages

COTSWOLD STYLE 135

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this month

with Kate Justice

“No more snow” This month, Kate Justice gives us a very honest view of what the snow means to her...

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

138 COTSWOLD STYLE

So, we have some delicious relief from the hideous mud covered briefly in a blanket of white. (At the time of going to press!) However… carrying bales of hay up a 200 metre slope, twice a day, gets a bit boring after… well… Day one. By Day five, I’m looking at the horses like they are devils incarnate… and by Day 10, I am seriously considering resorting to vodka martini for breakfast.

You see, along with the mud, snow has also covered up the grass. It doesn’t help that I dislocated my shoulder three days before the white stuff arrived, so am operating with one wing only. Argh.

The horses are so hungry (despite my hay slinging efforts) they clamour by the gateway like a military front line of breathing, furry, HEAVY, gang members… torn between attempts at escaping to the sanctuary of the stables and fighting off their field companions for the precious dried blades.

They do come in mid afternoon and get cosied and snuggled into deep fresh beds with bins full of clean water, buckets of food and haynets the size of planets. But, by 6am they’ve eaten every spec and turned the pristine fluffy shavings into a sloppy blackish mass. And they WANT TO GO OUT NOW PLEASE. This lasts until about 7am when they are back at the gate in their gang stance. By this point, I am moving the slop (one armed) into the wheel barrow while mentally preparing to drag more bales of hay up the hill for them to tread about on and waste most of.

I thought life in the mountainous mud was bad, but this ‘feed me now, I’m about to die’ mentality that’s

besieged the equines since it snowed is actually almost dangerous. And very expensive. On the up side, they are blissfully clean, rather than crisped from ear to eyelash and hoof to dreadlocked tail in dried mud, but that’s utterly useless as we can’t go out in this anyway. The driveway is hazardous and the lanes are worse.

The ponies in the family would usually live in the field all the time, but on Day two, were evidently driven to Houdini lengths to alter their accommodation. In amazing Jurassic Park style, they systematically tested the electric fence until a weak spot was discovered and then scampered off into next door where the grass was believed to be greener, but in fact is not. Much neighing (apologetically) ensued but as attempts were made to retrieve them, they were overcome by Satan and charged off, ropes flying, all the way down the path, round the corner, along the old railway track, through the tractor park and onto the yard. This also involved leaping over a woodpile more than two feet high… very maddening when I remember their reluctance to jump above nine inches at pony club.

They took up residence side by side on the yard, puffing, looking a bit wild and very firmly rooted to the spot “THIS… THIS is where we want to be, where we should be, where we ARE” they said.

So now I am scooping two extra piles of dirty shavings every morning and filling two more buckets with food and haynets with hay… but the nostrils are no longer flared and they have been more “please and thank you” than “could you give me the number for the RSPCA”.

I know that once the mud is back I’ll be doom and gloom about that instead, but please for now NO MORE SNOW. CS FEBRUARY 2013

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